27-February-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

EU-INDIA TALKS AMID GLOBAL POLITICAL SHIFTS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

A high-level delegation from the European Union (EU), including the President of the European Commission and 21 EU Commissioners, is on a two-day visit to India. This visit holds significance as it comes amid changing global dynamics, particularly concerning the Russia-Ukraine war and shifting U.S. policies.

Historic EU Delegation Visit

• This is the first time the EU has sent such a large delegation to any country.
• The primary goal is to strengthen diplomatic and trade relations between India and the EU.
• The visit is also influenced by global developments, including changes in U.S. foreign policy.

Impact of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

• The visit coincides with the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
• The EU has recently imposed its 16th round of sanctions on Russia.
• The U.S. recently opposed an EU-backed resolution at the United Nations, indicating a shift in its stance.
• The EU aims to discuss continued support for Ukraine and the enforcement of sanctions against Russia.

India’s Stand on Russia

• India has not recognized any sanctions on Russia and has significantly increased oil imports since 2022.
• New Delhi is unlikely to alter its stance despite international pressure.
• The discussions are expected to focus on EU-India cooperation rather than differences over Russia.

Revival of EU-India Relations

• No annual EU-India summit has taken place since 2020, except for a special Leader’s Summit in 2021.
• Both sides are preparing for a major summit in 2025.
• Talks on the EU-India Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA), restarted in 2022, have not seen much progress.
• Key trade concerns include tariffs on automobiles, wine, spirits, and non-tariff barriers.

Emphasis on Trade and Technology Cooperation

• The visit begins with a Trade and Technology Council (TTC) meeting.
• Discussions will focus on artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor development, quantum computing, and green technology.
• The EU-India Strategic Roadmap (2020-2025) will be updated to enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Indian ministers, industry leaders, and EU officials will engage in discussions to deepen economic and strategic ties.

Conclusion

This visit marks an important step in EU-India relations, with a focus on trade, technology, and geopolitical cooperation. While differences over Russia persist, both sides are expected to prioritize strengthening economic and strategic partnerships.

IMPACT OF COAL POWER PLANTS ON CROP YIELDS IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

A study by Stanford University has found that coal-fired power plants in India are reducing rice and wheat yields by up to 10% due to nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) pollution. The findings highlight the urgent need for pollution control to protect agriculture and food security.

Key Findings of the Study

How NO₂ Pollution Affects Crops

• Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), a major pollutant from coal-fired plants, harms plant health and lowers crop productivity.
• NO₂ is phytotoxic, meaning it causes stress to plants and disrupts important enzymatic functions.
• It contributes to ozone formation, which further damages crops and reduces sunlight availability for photosynthesis.
• The study is the first in India to establish a direct link between emissions from coal plants and crop damage.

Measuring Pollution and Crop Health

• Since ground-level air quality monitoring is limited in agricultural areas, researchers used satellite data to track NO₂ levels.
• They analysed near-infrared reflectance of vegetation (NIRv), which helps assess plant health based on chlorophyll content.

State-Wise Pollution Trends

• Chhattisgarh had the highest NO₂ pollution from coal plants, contributing 19% in monsoon and 12.5% in winter.
• Uttar Pradesh had high NO₂ levels, though only a small portion came from coal power plants.
• Tamil Nadu had lower overall NO₂ pollution, but most of it originated from coal-fired power stations.

Economic and Agricultural Losses

• Wheat and rice losses due to coal pollution were valued at ₹15 lakh ($17,370)/GWh and ₹11.7 lakh ($13,420)/GWh, respectively.
• A small number of highly polluting power plants contributed to 50% of total crop losses, suggesting that targeted emission control could have significant benefits.
• If pollution is reduced, crop yields could increase:
  • West Bengal: 5.7% of farmland could see a 5-10% rise in production.
  • Madhya Pradesh: 5.9% of farmland could gain 5-10%, while 11.9% could gain over 10%.

Potential Gains for India’s Agriculture

• By controlling coal-related pollution, India could gain ₹7,000 crore annually, including ₹420 million from rice and ₹400 million from wheat.
• Between 2011 and 2020, rice and wheat yields grew at only 1.7% and 1.5% per year, making these potential improvements crucial.

Coal Power’s Role and Policy Recommendations

• The 2025-26 Union Budget has increased coal sector funding by 255%, indicating India’s continued reliance on coal for economic growth.
• India ranked 105th out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index 2024, underscoring the need to enhance food production.
• Experts recommend prioritizing pollution control in power plants near farmlands to protect agricultural productivity and public health.

Conclusion

Coal power plants are significantly affecting India’s food security by reducing crop yields. Targeted pollution control measures can help protect agriculture, boost food production, and improve farmers’ income while ensuring economic and environmental sustainability.

DISCOVERY OF A STONEHENGE-LIKE STRUCTURE IN DENMARK

TOPIC: (GS1) CULTURE: THE HINDU

Archaeologists in Denmark have unearthed a wooden circular structure from around 2000 BC in Aars, resembling Britain’s Stonehenge. This discovery raises questions about potential cultural and religious connections between ancient European civilizations.

Key Findings of the Discovery

Details of the Wooden Circle in Aars

• The structure consists of 45 wooden posts, arranged in a 30-meter-wide circular pattern, with 2-meter spacing between them.
• Estimated to be around 4,000 years old, but further studies are needed to determine its precise age and function.
• It bears similarities to timber circles used for sun worship, previously found on the Danish island of Bornholm.
• The excavation also uncovered an early Bronze Age settlement, including a chieftain’s grave and a bronze sword.
• Experts believe this finding may indicate historical cultural exchanges between ancient Denmark and Britain.

Possible Links to Stonehenge

About Stonehenge, England

• Location: A prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England.
• Construction Period: Built in multiple phases, between 3100 BC and 1600 BC.
• Structure: Composed of two concentric rings of massive standing stones, some weighing up to 25 tons.
• Purpose: Likely served as a ceremonial site, burial ground, and astronomical observatory.
• Stone Origins: Some stones, known as bluestones, were transported from Wales, over 200 km away.
• Astronomical Alignment: Aligned with the summer and winter solstices, suggesting knowledge of celestial events.
• UNESCO Status: Declared a World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its historical and cultural significance.

Significance of the Discovery

• This finding adds to the evidence of ancient European societies engaging in sun worship and monument-building.
• The similarities between the Danish structure and Stonehenge suggest possible cultural or religious influences across regions.
• The presence of a chieftain’s grave and bronze artifacts indicates that Aars was an important settlement during the Bronze Age.
• Further research may reveal connections between early Scandinavian and British civilizations, reshaping our understanding of prehistoric societies.

Conclusion

The discovery of a Stonehenge-like wooden circle in Denmark provides new insights into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Europe. Ongoing research may help uncover deeper links between prehistoric Danish and British civilizations, expanding our knowledge of early human societies.

INDIA’S ‘LOOK EAST’ POLICY TRANSFORMED INTO ‘ACT EAST’

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Vice President of India, during the first-ever Joint Mega Nyokum Yullo Celebration in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasized the state’s rapid infrastructure growth and its role in India’s Act East Policy, highlighting investments in connectivity and power generation.

Key Developments in Arunachal Pradesh

Infrastructure Growth and Connectivity

• Arunachal Pradesh is experiencing major improvements in infrastructure, including new airports, railway expansion, and road networks.
• The construction of the Frontier Highway is expected to boost regional connectivity and enhance security along border areas.
• The central government is actively investing in Arunachal Pradesh to integrate the region with the rest of India and improve trade with Southeast Asia.

Investment Potential in Power Generation

• Arunachal Pradesh has the potential to generate 50,000 MW of hydroelectric power.
• Producing one megawatt requires an investment of ₹10 crore, creating a total investment opportunity of ₹5 lakh crore.
• The government has been encouraged to utilize this potential to promote economic growth while preserving local culture.

India’s Strength and National Unity

• India has grown stronger, and external forces cannot pose a threat to its sovereignty.
• The Vice President stressed nationalism and unity, highlighting that India’s cultural diversity strengthens its identity.
• He emphasized that festivals across different states reflect common traditions, fostering national integration.

Nyokum Yullo Festival: Cultural Significance

About Nyokum Yullo

• Nyokum Yullo is a major harvest festival celebrated by the Nyishi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh.
• It is observed to seek blessings for prosperity, good health, and a successful harvest.
• The festival is celebrated annually on February 26 with traditional rituals, prayers, and communal feasts.

Traditional Practices and Community Participation

• Sacrificial offerings are made to deities to ensure harmony and prosperity.
• People participate in folk dances, traditional songs, and wear ethnic attire.
• The festival fosters social unity, bringing together people from different communities.
• It plays a vital role in preserving indigenous traditions and strengthening tribal cultural identity.

Conclusion

The shift from ‘Look East’ to ‘Act East’ is accelerating development in India’s northeastern states, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh. The state’s hydropower potential and infrastructure growth are key to boosting regional connectivity, economic progress, and cultural preservation.

ANIMAL WELFARE BOARD OF INDIA TO RECOGNIZE ANIMAL PROTECTION CHAMPIONS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) is set to host the Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony on February 27, 2025, in New Delhi. This event will honor individuals and organizations for their efforts in animal welfare and protection.

Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)

Overview

• Established in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
• Operates under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
• Headquarters: Ballabhgarh, Haryana.
• Functions as an advisory body to the government on matters related to animal welfare laws and policies.

Key Functions

• Regulates the use of animals in entertainment, circuses, and research to prevent cruelty.
• Encourages the setting up of shelters, gaushalas, and rescue centers for animal care.
• Provides financial aid to registered animal welfare organizations.
• Conducts awareness programs on pet care, responsible ownership, and cruelty prevention.
• Monitors and promotes Animal Birth Control (ABC) programs for stray animal population management.

Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Awards

Purpose

• Recognizes individuals, NGOs, and institutions for notable contributions to animal welfare.
• Encourages greater participation in animal protection initiatives.

Award Categories

• Prani Mitra Award: Given to individuals and organizations for outstanding work in animal rescue, rehabilitation, and rights advocacy.
• Jeev Daya Award: Honors efforts in preventing cruelty against animals and promoting ethical treatment.

Role of AWBI in Animal Protection

Policy and Regulation

• Advises the government on strengthening animal welfare laws.
• Works on the enforcement of animal protection regulations in industries using animals.

Awareness and Education

• Organizes campaigns and workshops to educate the public about animal rights.
• Promotes ethical pet ownership and responsible care of stray animals.

Animal Shelter and Care Initiatives

• Supports the creation of animal rescue homes, veterinary care units, and rehabilitation centers.
• Funds projects related to stray animal sterilization and birth control programs.

Conclusion

The AWBI’s efforts in policy-making, awareness campaigns, and animal welfare initiatives play a crucial role in promoting ethical treatment and protection of animals in India. The upcoming award ceremony aims to recognize and motivate contributions in this field.

RAILWAYS’ SYSTEMIC INERTIA AND PASSENGER SAFETY CONCERNS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The recent stampede at New Delhi railway station on February 15, 2025, has raised concerns about Indian Railways’ inability to manage large crowds, particularly during peak travel periods like the Kumbh Mela. The incident highlights poor planning, weak security, and outdated infrastructure, leading to severe safety risks.

Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station

• The tragic incident resulted from overcrowding, lack of proper barricading, and poor crowd management.
• Despite the predictability of large passenger rush, the Railways failed to take preventive measures.
• Essential safety protocols, including controlled access and security personnel deployment, were ignored.
• The situation escalated due to last-minute platform changes and inadequate passenger information systems.

Systemic Issues in Indian Railways

• Poor Crowd Management: No separate entry and exit points, leading to congestion and panic during rush hours. Lack of real-time monitoring systems to track crowd movement and respond to surges. Inadequate barricading to control the flow of passengers.
• Ineffective Planning and Coordination: Failure to anticipate passenger surges despite festivals and special occasions being predictable. Insufficient security personnel, particularly Railway Protection Force (RPF) officers, to manage large gatherings.
• Outdated Infrastructure: Narrow platforms and staircases, causing bottlenecks during heavy footfall. Escalators without emergency stop mechanisms, making evacuation difficult during crises.
• Unregulated Ticketing System: Overcrowding in unreserved coaches due to lack of structured ticketing controls. No cap on passenger numbers in general compartments, leading to excessive rush and safety concerns.

Measures to Prevent Future Incidents

• Proactive Crowd Management: Implement special crowd control zones and staggered train schedules during peak travel periods. Introduce separate entry and exit routes for better passenger movement.
• Improved Communication Systems: Use public address systems, digital displays, and mobile alerts to inform passengers about platform changes and delays. Provide real-time updates through mobile apps and railway websites.
• Increased Security and Staff Deployment: More RPF personnel should be stationed at high-risk stations during festivals and peak hours. Train railway staff in emergency response and crowd control techniques.
• Better Ticketing System: Introduce pre-booking for unreserved coaches to control overcrowding. Implement automated passenger entry systems to regulate footfall.
• Infrastructure Upgradation: Expand platform space and widen staircases to reduce congestion. Install emergency stop buttons on escalators and improve passenger safety measures.

Conclusion

Ensuring passenger safety in Indian Railways requires major systemic reforms, including better infrastructure, efficient crowd management, and independent oversight. Without proactive measures, such disasters will continue to put millions of lives at risk.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF ETHANOL PRODUCTION

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Indian government’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme aims to reduce oil imports and lower carbon emissions. However, concerns have arisen about pollution from ethanol factories, excessive water usage, and risks to public health, especially in regions like Andhra Pradesh.

Introduction to the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme

• Launched as a pilot project in 2001, the EBP programme promotes ethanol blending in petrol.
• The initial goal of 20% ethanol blending by 2030 was advanced to 2025.
• The initiative helps in reducing fuel imports, cutting emissions, and supporting farmers.
• Ethanol is primarily produced from sugarcane, broken rice, and maize, providing farmers with an additional income source.

Current Status and Production Targets

• As of 2024, India has achieved a 15% ethanol blend in petrol.
• To meet the 20% target by 2025-26, 1,016 crore litres of ethanol will be required.
• The government has relaxed environmental regulations and introduced subsidies to boost ethanol production.
• States like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Punjab have the highest number of ethanol plants.
• India’s ethanol production capacity stood at 947 crore litres in 2022.

Environmental and Social Issues

Water and Air Pollution

• Many ethanol plants are located near rivers and canals, leading to contamination risks.
• Reports suggest that some factories discharge untreated waste into water bodies, harming aquatic life and farmers.
• Ethanol production emits harmful chemicals like acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, and acrolein, causing air pollution.

Weak Environmental Regulations

• Factories often lack transparency in pollution control measures and emissions are not properly monitored.
• Despite being classified under the ‘red category’ of industries, ethanol plants were exempted from public hearings, leading to unchecked approvals.
• Many factories are situated close to human settlements, increasing health risks.

Overuse of Water Resources

• A single grain-based ethanol factory consumes 8-12 litres of water per litre of ethanol produced.
• With declining water levels in major rivers, factories extract excessive groundwater, which is against regulations.
• Farmers fear that ethanol production will reduce water availability for agriculture, impacting crop yields.

Balancing Industrial Growth and Environmental Sustainability

• Studies indicate that a 20% ethanol blend reduces carbon monoxide emissions by 30% in four-wheelers and 50% in two-wheelers.
• However, environmental experts argue that the pollution caused by ethanol production offsets its climate benefits.
• Factory owners claim that installing pollution control mechanisms is costly, adding to production expenses.

Way Forward

• Stricter pollution control norms must be enforced, ensuring proper waste treatment in ethanol plants.
• Independent monitoring of emissions should be mandated before granting approvals.
• Alternative water sources, such as treated wastewater, should be explored for ethanol production.
• A balance must be maintained between reducing fuel dependency and protecting natural resources.

Conclusion

The ethanol programme has economic and environmental benefits, but its impact on water security, pollution, and public health must be addressed. Sustainable policies are essential to protect agriculture, natural resources, and public well-being.

THE ROLE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY IN INDIA’S FUTURE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Indian government aims to expand nuclear power to 100 GWe by 2047 as part of the vision for a developed India (Viksit Bharat). This has raised discussions on nuclear fuel supply, reactor technology, and energy security.

Importance of Nuclear Energy for Viksit Bharat

• India has set a goal of 100 GWe nuclear power capacity by 2047.
• Achieving this target is essential for energy security and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
• The execution plan for this expansion remains unclear, requiring strategic planning.

Challenges in Uranium Supply

• Running a 100 GWe nuclear program will require about 18,000 tons of uranium annually.
• This demand is nearly one-third of global uranium production, making supply uncertain.
• India must focus on fuel recycling to sustain nuclear expansion.
• By reaching 25 GWe, India’s uranium consumption will be 8-10% of global production, highlighting supply risks.

Need for Fuel Recycling and Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs)

• India has developed the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) to recycle nuclear fuel.
• Large-scale deployment of FBRs is necessary to reduce uranium dependence.
• Without efficient fuel recycling, nuclear expansion may slow down.
• Relying solely on international uranium markets is not a long-term solution.

Thorium as an Alternative Fuel

• India has abundant thorium reserves, which can be a key to energy independence.
• Thorium can be converted into fuel by irradiation with High-Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU).
• This process enables the use of thorium in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
• Used thorium fuel can further power Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs), advancing India’s three-stage nuclear program.

Benefits of Thorium-Based Nuclear Fuel

• Enhanced Reactor Safety: Thorium improves reactor performance and reduces risks.
• Lower Uranium Dependence: Reduces reliance on imported uranium.
• Less Nuclear Waste: Requires fewer fuel bundles, reducing waste management costs.
• Proliferation Resistance: Thorium cycles are less prone to nuclear weapons development.
• Compatibility with Existing Reactors: HALEU-thorium fuel can be used in PHWRs with minor modifications.

Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

• India’s Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) initiative supports nuclear expansion through a public-private partnership.
• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are gaining global attention, but India has already developed reliable small reactors.
• BSRs must be:
  • Safe to avoid evacuation zones.
  • Suitable for old coal plant sites.
  • Entirely manufactured in India for cost-effectiveness.
• The AHWR-300-LEU, India’s indigenous thorium reactor design, fits these criteria but was never developed.

Role of Research Institutions and Private Sector

• Institutions like BARC and IGCAR must lead nuclear research and development.
• Private firms can assist in scaling up production but should not control core nuclear technology.
• Relying solely on private sector leadership may weaken India’s nuclear capabilities.

Conclusion

For India to meet its 100 GWe nuclear target, key actions are needed:

• Expanding nuclear fuel recycling and using thorium to reduce uranium dependency.
• Prioritizing PHWRs, BSRs, and FBRs for a stable nuclear program.
• Avoiding blind adoption of global SMR designs and focusing on indigenous technology.
• Strengthening public-sector research institutions while leveraging private-sector support for scalability.

By making strategic and well-planned decisions, India can achieve energy security and a sustainable nuclear-powered future.