28-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

JUDICIAL ACCOUNTABILITY IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

Judicial accountability refers to the mechanisms that ensure judges perform their duties in an ethical, impartial, and transparent manner.

Recently, the Supreme Court expressed concern over comments made by a Karnataka High Court judge, sparking discussions about the challenges in disciplining members of the judiciary.

The Indian Constitution provides limited methods to hold judges accountable, with impeachment being the primary one. However, there are several alternative approaches and proposals to strengthen judicial accountability.

Current Mechanisms for Judicial Accountability:

Impeachment Process:

• Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts can be removed only through impeachment under Article 124(4) of the Indian Constitution.
• Impeachment requires approval by a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament, making it a highly challenging process.
• Only a few impeachment proceedings have been initiated, and none have succeeded, making it difficult to remove errant judges.

Judicial Intervention:

• In the absence of impeachment, the judiciary has occasionally stepped in to discipline its own members.
• A notable case is Justice C S Karnan, who was held in contempt and sentenced to six months in prison by the Supreme Court in 2017.
• While judicial intervention serves as a tool for accountability, it raises concerns about courts overseeing one another’s conduct.

Transfer of Judges:

• The transfer of High Court judges, overseen by the Collegium system, is another method used to discipline judges.
• For example, Justice P D Dinakaran was transferred in 2010 due to corruption allegations.
• However, transfers may not resolve the core issue and instead shift problems elsewhere without effective resolution.

Challenges and Solutions for Enhancing Judicial Accountability:

Annual Judicial Reports:

• Parliament could pass a law requiring the judiciary to publish an annual report, outlining important aspects such as case pendency, performance evaluations, and complaints against judges.
• This would introduce transparency and help assess judicial performance.

Judicial Standards Bill:

• The Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill, introduced in 2010, lapsed without becoming law.
• A new bill should be introduced to set clear judicial standards, along with establishing a permanent central-level disciplinary committee to handle complaints against judges.
• For serious misconduct, this committee can recommend forming a judicial inquiry under the Judges Inquiry Act.

RTI and Judiciary:

• The Supreme Court should clarify the extent of Right to Information (RTI) applicability to the judiciary, ensuring consistent RTI responses across different states.
• This would promote transparency by providing public access to judicial records.

Inclusion Under Lokpal:

• Bringing the judiciary under the scope of Lokpal could enhance accountability, similar to countries like Sweden where judges are accountable to an ombudsman.

Performance Evaluation:

• A performance evaluation system for judges, especially in higher judiciary, should be established.
• While performance evaluation exists at the lower levels, higher judiciary lacks such a mechanism. Drawing from global best practices, India can create a robust system for evaluating judicial performance.

Current Framework of Judicial Accountability in India:

Impeachment of Judges:

• Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts can only be removed for misbehavior or incapacity via impeachment.
• Article 124(4) provides for impeachment of Supreme Court judges, and Article 217(1)(b) addresses High Court judges.
• So far, only one impeachment proceeding has been initiated against a Supreme Court judge, but it was unsuccessful. No High Court judge has been impeached.

Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968:

• Regulates the procedure for investigating allegations of incapacity and misbehavior of judges in both the Supreme Court and High Courts.

Control over Subordinate Judiciary:

• Article 235 gives the High Courts authority over the subordinate judiciary, ensuring accountability for lower courts.

Restatement of Values of Judicial Life (1997):

• A charter adopted by the Supreme Court outlining the ethical conduct and norms judges must adhere to. All High Courts have adopted this charter, although it is more of a guideline than a formal accountability tool.

In-House Procedure (1999):

• An internal mechanism created by the Supreme Court to handle complaints against judges.
• In case of complaints, the Chief Justice can form a three-judge committee to conduct an inquiry. If the complaint is serious, removal proceedings can be recommended.

Conclusion:

The recent concerns raised by the Supreme Court emphasize the need for enhanced mechanisms to hold judges accountable. While impeachment is the only constitutional process, alternative methods like judicial intervention, transfers, and proposed reforms such as judicial standards legislation and performance evaluations offer potential pathways for strengthening judicial accountability in India.

DELHI’S AIR POLLUTION CRISIS: GOVERNMENT’S 21-POINT WINTER ACTION PLAN

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: HINDUSTHAN TIMES

Delhi’s air quality has once again declined, reaching the “poor” category (AQI 200-300), a common occurrence during the winter months. The combination of weather patterns and human activities exacerbates pollution, raising health concerns for its residents. In response, the Delhi government has introduced a 21-point Winter Action Plan aimed at mitigating the city’s pollution levels through a variety of short-term and long-term measures.

Nature of the Problem

• Post-Monsoon Aggravation: Pollution intensifies after the monsoon due to temperature inversion, where warm air prevents the dispersion of pollutants like PM 2.5, leading to poor air quality.
• Year-Round Issue: While winter worsens air pollution, it remains a persistent issue throughout the year, requiring sustained efforts for improvement.
• Inequality in Exposure: Poorer communities face a disproportionate impact from pollution, as they lack access to air purifiers or the ability to relocate to less polluted areas.

Causes of Air Pollution

• Continuous Sources: Biomass burning, vehicular emissions, trash burning, and industrial activities are year-round contributors to air pollution in Delhi.
• Seasonal Factors: Stubble burning in neighboring states and firecracker use during festivals worsen pollution in the winter months.
• Meteorological Impact: Stagnant air and temperature inversion during winter trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to a rapid decline in air quality.

Superficial Solutions

• Cloud Seeding: This technique of inducing rainfall by dispersing chemicals is considered a temporary solution with limited effectiveness and potential environmental consequences.
• Smog Towers: While smog towers may improve air quality in localized areas, their overall effectiveness is limited, and their energy usage can contribute to emissions.

Concrete Solutions

• Coordinated Efforts: Pollution needs to be addressed through a multi-sectoral approach involving transport, industry, agriculture, and urban planning, cutting across state boundaries.
• Capacity Building: Strengthening institutional frameworks, investing in research, and fostering collaboration among policymakers, regulators, and citizens is essential for long-term success.
• Comprehensive Air Monitoring: Expanding air quality monitoring to rural and industrial areas, in addition to urban regions, will help in identifying pollution patterns and enabling targeted interventions

Government Initiatives to Control Delhi’s Pollution

• Green War Room: A dedicated nine-member team monitors the actions of 20 government agencies in real time to combat pollution.
• Green Delhi App: Citizens can use this mobile app to report pollution incidents such as garbage burning, industrial emissions, or traffic congestion.
• Bio-Decomposer: The PUSA institute’s bio-decomposer helps farmers manage crop residue without burning. The government offers this service free of cost to Delhi’s farmers.
• Water Sprinklers and Anti-Smog Guns:Water sprinklers, mechanized road sweepers, and anti-smog guns are deployed to control dust and reduce particulate matter in the air.
• Industry Pollution Control: Industrial sites are closely monitored to ensure the use of clean fuels. Piped natural gas (PNG) has been extended to industries, and the country’s first e-waste eco-park has been set up in Delhi.
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificates: The government enforces PUC certificates for vehicles and bans trucks carrying non-essential goods from entering Delhi.
• Pollution Hotspots: Twenty-one pollution hotspots have been identified in Delhi, with special teams deployed to monitor and mitigate pollution in these areas.

Conclusion

Delhi’s recurring winter air pollution crisis demands comprehensive, sustained efforts to address both immediate and long-term challenges. The 21-point Winter Action Plan is a step toward improving air quality, but continuous and coordinated actions across various sectors and states will be necessary to mitigate the capital’s air pollution in a meaningful way. 

THE SELF-RESPECT MOVEMENT: A FIGHT FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE

TOPIC: (GS3) SOCIETY: THE HINDU

The Self-Respect Movement, launched in 1925 by Periyar, aimed to challenge caste-based oppression and promote social justice. It advocated for women’s rights, rationalism, and equality, encouraging marginalized communities to fight for dignity and autonomy. The movement remains relevant today, especially in the face of new social challenges like cultural homogenization and the rise of divisive ideologies.

Emergence of the Self-Respect Movement

Formation:

• The Self-Respect Movement was initiated by Periyar E.V. Ramasamy in 1925, starting with the Tamil weekly “Kudi Arasu”.
• Periyar broke away from the Indian National Congress (INC) to focus on social reforms, aiming to empower oppressed communities.

Support from Justice Party:

• The Justice Party, which governed the Madras Presidency, supported non-Brahmin politics and aligned with the movement’s social justice agenda.

First Conference:

• The first Self-Respect Conference was organized in 1929, promoting key reforms such as women’s rights, abolition of caste names, and equal opportunities for all.

Key Reforms and Achievements

Self-Respect Marriages:

• The movement popularized self-respect marriages, where Brahmin priests were excluded, and women’s autonomy was emphasized.
• These marriages were legalized in 1967 when the DMK came to power in Tamil Nadu.

Advocacy for Women’s Rights:

• The movement promoted progressive reforms like widow remarriage, divorce, property rights, and reproductive autonomy for women.
• It also supported inter-caste marriages, challenging traditional caste hierarchies.

Focus on Social Reform Over Political Independence:

• Although criticized for being anti-nationalist, the movement emphasized social justice over political freedom, fearing that independence would only benefit the elite Hindu castes.
• It contributed to the development of federalism in India, emphasizing regional and caste diversity.

Challenges and Future Directions

• Hindutva Ideology: The rise of Hindutva and the push for cultural homogenization threaten the movement’s vision of diverse identities, including regional, caste, gender, and linguistic differences.
• Modern Gender Issues: The movement must adapt to contemporary gender issues, such as LGBTQIA+ rights and gender fluidity, while retaining its original principles of equality.
• Digital Media Misinformation: Caste biases and misinformation are increasingly spread through digital platforms, complicating the movement’s message.
• Engaging the Youth: The movement needs to involve the youth, many of whom are unfamiliar with caste practices but can be influenced by right-wing propaganda.

Conclusion:

As the Self-Respect Movement enters its second century, it must combat divisive ideologies and continue its mission of promoting social justice, equality, and rationalism. By addressing modern challenges while staying true to its core values, the movement can help create a more inclusive society and inspire future generations to uphold its principles.

JOURNEY ACROSS THE PALK STRAIT: INDIA-SRI LANKA RELATIONS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Palk Strait, situated between India and Sri Lanka, plays a crucial role in shaping the bilateral relations between the two nations. This narrow stretch of water is significant for trade, fishing, and security, while also being an ecologically rich area. Its strategic location has both economic and geopolitical implications, influencing regional cooperation and stability

Palk Strait: Overview

• Geographical Location: The Palk Strait is a narrow water body separating India and Sri Lanka. It connects the Bay of Bengal with the Gulf of Mannar.
• Dimensions: The strait is 40-85 km wide, though it can narrow in certain areas.
• Islands: Adam’s Bridge (Rama Setu) is the most notable island formation in the strait.
• Ecological Richness: The Palk Strait is home to a diverse ecosystem, including coral reefs and various marine species. It is a crucial fishing ground for local communities.
• Navigation Challenges: The region is characterized by shallow waters, making navigation difficult for larger vessels.

Significance in India-Sri Lanka Relations

• Maritime Security: The Palk Strait is strategically important for ensuring maritime security in the region. It plays a role in counter-terrorism efforts in the Indian Ocean.
• Trade and Tourism: The strait facilitates bilateral trade and tourism between India and Sri Lanka, enhancing economic ties.
• Fishing Disputes: Tamil fishermen from both nations rely on the strait for their livelihood, making it a sensitive issue.
• Infrastructure Development: The development of ports and other infrastructure along the strait impacts regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
• Ecological and Humanitarian Cooperation: The ecological richness of the strait offers opportunities for environmental cooperation. Joint initiatives can also improve humanitarian efforts, particularly in disaster management and conservation.
• Regional Stability: Strengthening ties through joint projects in the Palk Strait can contribute to regional stability and enhance India-Sri Lanka relations.

Conclusion

The Palk Strait holds significant importance in shaping India-Sri Lanka relations. While it offers economic opportunities through trade and tourism, it also presents challenges, especially in terms of fishing rights disputes and maritime security. Both nations can benefit from enhanced cooperation in the region, particularly by addressing ecological concerns and ensuring stability in the Indian Ocean region. Through joint initiatives, India and Sri Lanka can further strengthen their ties and address key issues affecting the strait.

STORMS BREWING IN EAST, SOUTH CHINA SEAS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Maritime East Asia has become a significant zone of geopolitical tension due to territorial disputes.

The region includes the East China Sea and South China Sea, where China’s territorial claims are in conflict with neighbouring countries.

Regional nations, supported by the U.S., have reacted to China’s assertive policies, increasing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Areas of Dispute:

East China Sea:

• China claims the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands, controlled by Japan, leading to a dispute involving Taiwan and South Korea.
• These islands are viewed as strategically important for security and control over maritime routes.

South China Sea:

• China claims most of the sea, conflicting with countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
• The region holds significant resources, such as oil, natural gas, and crucial undersea cables.

China’s Perspective:

• China justifies its claims as essential for protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• In its 2019 Defence White Paper, China declared the South China Sea islands and Diaoyu Islands as non-negotiable.
• Infrastructure buildup and military patrols in disputed waters reflect China’s commitment to securing its interests.

Regional Responses:

• Defence Spending: Regional nations, including Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, are boosting their military capabilities.
• US Support: The U.S. has increased defence cooperation with allies like Japan and the Philippines to counterbalance China’s growing influence.
• Philippines’ Stance: Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines has taken a more assertive approach against China.

Conclusion:

The power struggle in maritime East Asia shows no signs of abating, as nations compete for control over strategic territories.

The role of the U.S. remains critical, though concerns about its long-term commitment to the Indo-Pacific persist amidst domestic challenges.

INDIA-US RELATIONS: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden during the Quad summit highlighted the growing strategic partnership between India and the U.S.

Biden emphasized the strength of the relationship, calling it the most dynamic it has ever been.

Both nations are focused on multiple areas of cooperation, including technology, defence, and green energy, despite facing some challenges.

Historical Context

• Biden has long been an advocate for stronger India-U.S. ties, supporting the 2008 nuclear deal and strengthening relations during his tenure as Vice President.
• The Trump administration played a key role in reviving the Quad and aligning India and the U.S. against China, which Biden has built upon.

Key Areas of Cooperation

Technology and Supply Chain Collaboration:

• Both countries are working to strengthen global supply chains, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) focuses on strategic collaboration in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), space, semiconductors, and biotechnology.

Semiconductor Fabrication:

• A major breakthrough in tech diplomacy was the agreement to establish a semiconductor fabrication plant in India.
• This plant will produce essential chips for national security and telecommunications, marking a significant step in U.S.-India tech cooperation.

Broader Technology Collaboration:

• India and the U.S. are also collaborating on other technologies, including space exploration via NASA and ISRO, and advanced defence technologies.
• Cooperation on critical mineral supply chains is vital for both nations’ technological growth.

Challenges and Concerns

Khalistan Issue:

• The alleged assassination plot against pro-Khalistan separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun during Modi’s visit has caused diplomatic friction.
• Though India has dismissed these allegations, they raise concerns about India’s democratic image on the global stage.

U.S. Domestic Political Changes:

• With Biden’s term ending in early 2025, India is closely monitoring the U.S. political landscape to gauge potential changes in foreign policy, whether it’s continued by Kamala Harris or Donald Trump.

Ways to Strengthen India-U.S. Relations

Joint Manufacturing Initiatives:

• Align “Make in India” with “Buy American” by proposing joint ventures in electronics, defence, and pharmaceuticals.
• A fast-track approval process and special economic zones could encourage U.S. companies to invest in India, benefiting both nations.

Green Energy Collaboration:

• India can propose a bilateral Green Energy Corridor for the joint development of renewable energy technologies like solar, wind, and hydrogen.
• Preferential market access for green technologies could make this economically viable while addressing climate change.

Digital Democracy Initiative:

• A joint initiative to create shared norms for a secure, open internet could focus on cybersecurity, countering misinformation, and promoting digital literacy.
• Developing privacy-preserving technologies and digital public goods could enhance digital governance.

Skills Passport Program:

• Propose a Skills Passport Program to address U.S. labor shortages while providing opportunities for Indian workers in sectors like IT and healthcare.
• This could include mutual recognition of certifications, simplified visa processes, and joint training programs.

Strategic Resource Partnership:

• India can position itself as a key partner in diversifying U.S. supply chains for critical resources like rare earth elements.
• Joint exploration and fiscal incentives could boost cooperation in this area.

Health Security Alliance:

• Building on COVID-19 cooperation, India can propose a Health Security Alliance focused on joint vaccine development, infectious disease research, and telemedicine.

Space Commercialization Consortium:

• A joint venture between ISRO and NASA could explore opportunities in commercial space technologies, including satellite development and space tourism.

Conclusion

Despite challenges like the Khalistan issue and uncertainties over future U.S. leadership, the India-U.S. partnership continues to grow, particularly in areas like technology, defence, and green energy.

Proactive engagement and new initiatives can help strengthen ties, ensuring a robust and dynamic relationship.

THE KEFFIYEH – PALESTINIAN NATIONAL SYMBOL

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

Recently, Indian American author Jhumpa Lahiri declined an award from New York’s Noguchi Museum after it fired three employees for wearing keffiyeh scarves.

The keffiyeh is a symbol of Palestinian identity, and its history is intertwined with resistance and national unity.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Traditional Use:

• The keffiyeh is a white cotton scarf traditionally worn in West Asia to protect against the harsh desert sun.
• It features patterns, such as fishing nets and olive leaves, that symbolize Palestinian culture.

Symbol of Palestinian Identity:

• During British rule in the 1930s, the keffiyeh emerged as a symbol of Palestinian unity and resistance.
• After the 1948 displacement of Palestinians, it became a representation of resilience and connection to their homeland.

Popularization by Yasser Arafat:

• The Palestinian Liberation Organization leader, Yasser Arafat, helped bring international attention to the keffiyeh in the 1970s.

Controversies

• Association with Resistance: The keffiyeh is linked to Palestinian resistance, leading to bans in some places like Victoria’s legislature in Australia.
• Fashion Appropriation: In the 2000s, brands like Urban Outfitters used keffiyeh-inspired designs, drawing criticism for cultural appropriation.

PUSH FOR REFORMS IN THE UN SECURITY COUNCIL (UNSC)

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: TIMES OF INDIA

As the UN approaches its 80th anniversary, there is growing pressure to reform the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), particularly from the G4 nations (India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan).

• These nations, along with groups like the L69 and C-10, are advocating for better representation of developing countries in global decision-making.

G4 Nations

• Composition: The G4 consists of four nations: India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan.
• Purpose: The group was formed to push for reforms in the UNSC, seeking permanent seats for its members.
• Goals: They advocate for increased representation for developing countries, aiming to make the UNSC more inclusive and effective in addressing global challenges.
• Global Relevance: The G4’s reforms aim to make the UNSC more reflective of today’s geopolitical realities and ensure that it better represents the developing world.

L69 Group

• Composition: The L69 group comprises developing countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
• Objective: The group focuses on advocating for comprehensive UNSC reforms.
• Representation: The L69 emphasizes the importance of greater participation of the Global South in international peace and security.
• Significance: It aims to give a stronger voice to developing nations and enhance their role in global decision-making.

C-10 Group

• Composition: The C-10 group represents the Committee of Ten African Heads of State, a part of the African Union (AU).
• Demands: The group demands two permanent and five non-permanent seats for African nations on the UNSC, based on the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.
• Focus: C-10 aims to ensure Africa has greater representation in global security decisions, reflecting the continent’s role in maintaining peace and security.

Conclusion

• The push for UNSC reform is driven by the need for more inclusive representation, particularly for developing countries. The G4, L69, and C-10 groups aim to ensure the UNSC reflects modern geopolitical realities and gives a voice to underrepresented nations.

EASTERN RAJASTHAN CANAL PROJECT (ERCP)

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: DOWN TO EARTH

The Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) is a significant initiative aimed at addressing water scarcity in southern and southeastern Rajasthan.

It is a collaborative effort between Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh to manage water resources efficiently.

Key Features of ERCP

• Objective: The project aims to harvest excess water from rivers in southern Rajasthan and use it for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes in water-scarce regions.
• Intra-Basin Transfer: It involves transferring surplus monsoon water from sub-basins like Kalisindh, Parvati, Mej, and Chakan within the Chambal Basin to water-deficit areas such as Banas, Gambhiri, Banganga, and Parbati.
• Beneficiary Districts: The project will benefit 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan, addressing both drinking water and irrigation needs.
• Irrigation and Industry: It will irrigate around 2.82 lakh hectares of land and supply water to the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC).
• Flood and Drought Management: The project is also designed to mitigate flood and drought issues in the region.

About Chambal River

• Origin: Chambal River originates from the Singar Chouri peak in the Vindhya Mountains.
• Course: It flows through Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, forming a boundary between the two states before joining the Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh.
• Tributaries: Important tributaries include Banas, Kali Sindh, Sipra, and Parbati.
• Pollution-Free: Chambal is known as one of India’s most pollution-free rivers and is home to the National Chambal Sanctuary.
• Dams: Major dams on the river include Gandhi Sagar, Rana Pratap Sagar, and Jawahar Sagar.

MAO NAGAS OF NORTHEAST INDIA

TOPIC: (GS1) CULTURE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Mao Nagas are one of the indigenous tribes of Northeast India, specifically residing in Manipur. They are part of the larger Naga community and have a rich cultural heritage, language, and traditions.

Key Facts about Mao Nagas

Geography and Population:

• The Mao Nagas primarily live in the northern part of Manipur, close to the Nagaland border.
• According to the 2011 census, their population is approximately 97,195.
• Their villages are typically situated on hilltops and mountain ridges, providing natural protection.

Language and Society:

• The Mao language is both their spoken language and the name of their land.
• The Mao people refer to themselves as Ememei or Memei in their native tongue.
• They follow a patriarchal system, with descent traced through the male line.
• Their society is divided into clans (Opfuta) and sub-clans.

Economy:

• The Mao Nagas are mainly agrarian, with rice being their staple food.
• They practice terraced rice cultivation (both wet and dry) and engage in barter and mutual exchange

Religion and Festivals:

• Before Christianity, they followed a traditional religion called ‘Opfupe Chüna-Chüno’, worshipping a Supreme being known as ‘Iyi Koki Chüku Kapi Oramei’.
• Today, Christianity is the predominant religion.
• Their main festivals include Chüthuni, Chüjüni, Saleni, and Onuni.

PARAM RUDRA SUPERCOMPUTING SYSTEMS AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING (HPC) SYSTEM

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Recently, India’s Prime Minister launched three PARAM Rudra Supercomputing Systems and a High-Performance Computing (HPC) system for weather and climate research.

These systems are designed to support various fields, such as scientific research, material science, cosmology, and weather forecasting.

About PARAM Rudra Supercomputer:

Purpose:

• PARAM Rudra is designed to handle complex computational tasks in scientific and engineering domains.

Development:

• Developed under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) at a cost of ₹130 crores.

Deployment:

Three systems are deployed in Delhi, Pune, and Kolkata:

• Pune: Supports the Giant Metre Radio Telescope for research on Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs).
• Delhi: Enhances research at the Inter University Accelerator Centre in material science and atomic physics.
• Kolkata: Drives research at N. Bose Centre in areas like physics, cosmology, and earth sciences.

What is a High-Performance Computing (HPC) System?

• Purpose: Designed for weather and climate research with high computational power.
• Location: Installed at IITM, Pune and NCMRWF, Noida.
• Significance: These systems, named Arka and Arunika, improve the accuracy of predictions for weather events like cyclones, heavy rainfall, and heat waves.

National Supercomputing Mission (NSM):

• Launched: 2015, to provide India with advanced computing infrastructure.
• Collaboration: Between MeitY and DST, implemented by C-DAC and IISc.