Context

• The issue of food loss and waste (FLW) is a critical global challenge that has profound implications for food security, environmental sustainability, and economic efficiency.
• Recognising the urgency of the matter, the United Nations designated September 29 as the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (FLW).
• It is important to have an assessment on the scale of food loss and waste, its environmental impact, and India’s specific challenges and efforts to mitigate these losses.

Global Impact of Food Loss and Waste

• According to a 2023 Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) report, food lost between harvest and retail accounts for 13.2% of global food production, while UNEP estimates that 17% of food is wasted at the retail and consumption stages.
• Combined, this amounts to nearly 30% of global food production being lost or wasted each year.
• If just half of this food could be saved, it would be sufficient to feed all the world’s hungry people, thus contributing to the global fight against hunger.
• Furthermore, reducing FLW would lead to a significant decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG)
• It is estimated that FLW contributes to 8-10% of global GHG emissions and accounts for 38% of total energy usage in food production.

An Assessment on Causes of Food Loss in India

• Lack of Mechanisation
  • The All-India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS) in 2019 revealed that only 4.4% of cultivator households in India owned tractors, and only 5.3% owned essential farm equipment such as power tillers, combine harvesters, or threshers.
  • Small and marginal farmers, who make up over 86% of India’s agricultural households, often cannot afford these machines.
  • As a result, manual methods are still widely used, which increases the risk of food loss during harvesting and processing.
  • For instance, combine harvesters, when used in paddy cultivation, significantly reduce grain losses compared to traditional methods, but their use is limited to regions like Punjab, where 97% of paddy-producing households use mechanized equipment.
  • In contrast, only 10% of paddy farmers in Bihar have access to such equipment.
• Inadequate Cold Chain Infrastructure
  • India’s cold chain infrastructure is underdeveloped, particularly for perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
  • Due to the lack of proper refrigeration and temperature-controlled transport, a large proportion of horticultural crops are lost before they even reach the market.
  • The absence of efficient cold chains results in spoilage and wastage, reducing both the availability of fresh produce and the potential income for farmers.
  • According to a survey, horticultural crops are especially vulnerable, with nearly 50 MMT lost annually due to this deficiency.
• Traditional Drying and Storage Methods
  • While sun drying is a low-cost option, it exposes food to contamination from dust, pests, and uneven moisture levels, leading to quality degradation and food loss.
  • Furthermore, inadequate storage facilities exacerbate post-harvest losses, with 10% of total food grain production is lost due to poor and inadequate storage infrastructure.
  • Without access to modern drying technologies such as solar dryers or proper storage infrastructure like warehouses and silos, farmers face significant challenges in preserving their produce, especially during the monsoon season.
• Transportation and Supply Chain Inefficiencies
  • India’s vast geography, coupled with poor road infrastructure in rural areas, means that transporting crops from farms to markets can take considerable time.
  • During this period, perishable goods are particularly prone to spoilage due to exposure to heat, moisture, and handling damage.
  • Even non-perishable items such as grains can suffer from poor handling and packaging during transit, leading to further losses.

Impact of Food Loss in India

• Economic Consequences
  • The monetary value of food loss in India is alarming, with Rs 1.53 trillion worth of food wasted annually.
  • This translates into lost income for farmers, especially small and marginal farmers who cannot absorb these losses.
  • Food loss also affects the country’s GDP, as agriculture accounts for a significant portion of India’s economy.
  • Additionally, the lost produce could have been sold domestically or exported, reducing potential revenue streams for both the government and farmers.
• Environmental Impact
  • Agriculture is a resource-intensive sector, requiring large amounts of water, energy, and land, therefore, when food is lost or wasted, all the resources that went into producing it are wasted as well.
  • In India, this is particularly concerning given the country’s ongoing struggles with water scarcity and land degradation.
  • Furthermore, food that is discarded often ends up in landfills, where it decomposes and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
  • Reducing food loss would not only conserve resources but also lower the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.
• Social and Food Security Implications
  • According to the Global Hunger Index, India ranks poorly in terms of hunger and malnutrition, with millions of people unable to access sufficient nutritious food.
  • The fact that such a large quantity of food is lost each year while millions go hungry is a stark indicator of systemic inefficiencies.
  • If even a portion of the food lost post-harvest could be saved, it would significantly improve food security in the country and reduce the incidence of malnutrition, particularly in rural areas.

Solutions to Address the Food Loss Problem in India

• Mechanization and Technological Interventions
  • Expanding the use of mechanised farming equipment, particularly among small and marginal farmers, is essential for reducing post-harvest losses.
  • Initiatives such as Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) can help farmers access machinery through group leasing or shared services.
  • Additionally, investing in green technologies like solar dryers and modern storage facilities can further reduce losses, particularly for perishable goods.
• Improving Cold Chain Infrastructure
  • Building a robust cold chain infrastructure is crucial for reducing the spoilage of perishable products.
  • Government initiatives to encourage private investment in cold chains, as well as public-private partnerships, can help bridge the infrastructure gap.
  • Expanding cold storage facilities and improving refrigerated transportation would enable farmers to extend the shelf life of their produce and reach wider markets, thereby reducing food loss.
• Policy Reforms
  • Policy interventions are necessary to ensure that small and marginal farmers can benefit from technological advancements and infrastructure improvements.
  • For instance, revisiting the Jute Packaging Material Act (JPMA) to allow for the use of airtight bags in place of jute bags could significantly reduce storage and transit losses.
  • Similarly, government programs that offer subsidies for modern storage facilities, cold chains, and mechanised equipment would support farmers in reducing food loss.
• Education and Awareness Campaigns
  • Educating farmers about best practices in harvesting, drying, and storage is crucial for minimising losses.
  • Training programs on the use of modern technologies, such as combine harvesters and solar dryers, can empower farmers to adopt more efficient methods.
  • Additionally, raising awareness among consumers about food waste at the household level, especially in urban areas where waste from weddings and events is high, could help reduce food wastage.

Conclusion

• India’s food loss and waste problem presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
• Reducing food loss is not merely an economic necessity but a moral obligation, especially in a country where millions still suffer from hunger and malnutrition.
• By prioritising solutions, India can contribute to global efforts to tackle food loss and waste while fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.

Why in News? Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Urban 2.0, large cities have not cleared any land in half of their legacy landfill sites, with just 38% of the total dumped waste has been remedied so far.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• What is the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)?
• Analysing the SBM Urban 2.0

Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM):

• About:
  • The Government of India had launched the SBM on 2nd October 2014 to accelerate the efforts to achieve universal sanitation coverage and to put focus on sanitation.
  • The mission has two components - rural (SBM-Gramin, overseen by the Ministry of Jal Shakti) and urban (SBM-Urban, overseen by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs [MoHUA]).
  • Under these components, all villages, Gram Panchayats, Districts, States and UTs in India had to declare themselves "open-defecation free" (ODF) by 2 October 2019 - the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Achievements:
  • As one of the largest cleanliness drives in the world, SBM has brought in a remarkable transformation and traceable benefits to the society as a whole.
  • Many States have achieved the status of 100% ODF and Individual Household Latrines (IHHL) coverage, thereby leading to a sea change in the dignity of people, especially women.
  • This mission acts as a driver for eliminating the gender disparity through the construction of gender-specific latrines in public areas such as schools, roads and parks.
  • This public movement will have an indirect positive impact on society by increasing the enrolment ratio of girls in schools and improving health standards.

Analysing the SBM Urban 2.0:

• About:
  • Launched in 2021, the SBM Urban 2.0 has the target of clearing around 2,400 legacy landfill sites in the country by 2025-2026.
  • Legacy waste dumpsites are places that contain solid waste that has been collected and stored for years in an unscientific and uncontrolled manner.
• Funding: To get funding from SBM Urban 2.0, cities are supposed to submit action plans to the MoHUA for bioremediation of their legacy landfills and then reuse of the land cleared.
• Process: Converting the waste into different categories, leading to the -
  • Creation of refuse derived fuel (RDF) for waste-to-energy plants,
  • Recycling of construction and demolition waste and bio-soil that can be used for road construction.
• Performance:
  • Out of the 69 landfill sites (accounting for 57% of the total waste dumped in landfills in the country) in cities with a population over 1 million, land is yet to be cleared in 35 sites.
  • Out of a total area of 3,354 acres with 1,258 lakh metric tonnes of waste in these 69 sites, 1,171 acres with 475 lakh MT of waste have been cleared so far.
• Some success stories:
  • Ahmedabad has been able to clear up 4.3 acres of land that used to have 2.30 lakh tonnes of waste. The site has been redeveloped as an ecological park.
  • Nagpur’s legacy landfill spread over 35 acres, with 10 lakh metric tonnes of waste, has also been 100% cleared under the mission.
    • The bioremediation of the waste led to generation of refuse derived fuel and manure, which is being sold.
    • The site will be used for an integrated waste management project.
  • Pune’s legacy landfill at Vanaz has been cleared for use as a depot for the Metro in the city.
  • Lucknow’s landfill at Ghaila was spread over 72 acres, with 8 lakh tonnes of waste. The site has been cleared and is being used to develop a park, Rashtriya Prerna Sthal.
• Challenges ahead:
  • Despite significant progress under the SBM, a large portion of legacy waste and landfills continues to present environmental, health and space constraints for cities.
  • The cities are facing the challenge of clearing the remaining 65% of land and remediating 62% of garbage left at the legacy landfill sites, with less than 2 years to go before the scheme is completed.
• Way ahead:
  • Proper planning before starting the bioremediation process.
  • Stopping dumping fresh waste on the sites undergoing remediation.
  • Providing alternative locations to process fresh waste.
  • Stopping the use of the fine soil-like material generated from the sites as compost, because of the possibility of contamination due to the presence of heavy metals.

Context:

In order to tackle the issue of farm fires in Punjab and Haryana, govt. is looking for different varieties of rice.

Pusa-2090 yields nearly as much as Pusa-44, the first choice of farmers. But it can be harvested by early to mid-October, eliminating the need for stubble burning before the sowing of wheat.

What’s in today’s article?

• Pusa-44
• Pusa-2090

Pusa-44

• About
  • Pusa-44, developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in 1993, takes 155-160 days to mature.
    • It has high yield of 35-36 quintals per acre, sometimes reaching 40 quintals.
  • Despite its longer growing period compared to the PR-126 variety, which matures in 123-125 days and yields 30-32 quintals per acre, farmers prefer Pusa-44.
  • This is because the additional 4-5 quintals per acre translates to extra earnings of Rs 9,280-11,600 at the government-set minimum support price of Rs 2,320 per quintal for 'Grade A' paddy.
• Environmental cost associated with Pusa-44
  • While Pusa-44 paddy offers high yields, its long growing period causes issues for farmers in Punjab and Haryana
  • Harvesting in late October leaves little time for wheat sowing, leading many to burn the remaining straw and stubble for quick field preparation, contributing to severe air pollution in northern India during late October to mid-November.
  • Although Pusa-44 cultivation has decreased from 39% in 2012 to 14.8% of Punjab’s non-basmati paddy area in 2023, it remains popular in many districts of the region.
    • Despite a government ban and lack of new seeds, farmers continue using saved seeds to grow Pusa-44.

Pusa-2090

• About
  • Pusa-2090 is a newly bred, shorter-duration paddy variety developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) as a potential replacement for Pusa-44.
  • A cross between Pusa-44 and CB-501 (an early-maturing Japonica rice line), Pusa-2090 matures in 120-125 days, similar to PR-126, but with a higher yield of 34-35 quintals per acre, closer to Pusa-44’s yield.
• Benefits
  • The variety maintains a high number of tillers (branches with grain-bearing ear-heads or panicles) and grains per panicle, comparable to Pusa-44 and higher than PR-126.
  • Pusa-2090 also features a strong culm, making it less prone to lodging (bending over or falling due to heavy winds and rains) in adverse weather conditions, and it is highly responsive to nitrogen application.
  • Moreover, its shorter duration results in significant water savings, requiring 5-6 fewer irrigations than Pusa-44, which typically needs 29-30.
• A viable replacement of Pusa-44?
  • Pusa-2090 has a lower reduction in yield compared to Pusa-44, as it produces almost as much grain as Pusa-44.
  • At the same time, Pusa-2090 matures in a shorter time, similar to PR-126, which allows farmers to harvest earlier and potentially prepare for the next crop without delays.
  • Therefore, Pusa-2090 presents a promising, viable option for farmers seeking both high yields and efficient water use.
  • Farmers of this region are also considering Pusa-2090 as a potential replacement for Pusa-44, especially since the latter has been banned.
  • However, in addition to yields, milling quality is also important.
    • PR-126 is less favored by millers due to its low rice recovery rate of 63%, below the government's standard of 67%.
  • If Pusa-2090 matches the grain quality of Pusa-44, it could gain wider acceptance among millers as well.

Why in news?

Launched on September 25, 2014, by PM Modi, the "Make in India" initiative marked a pivotal shift in India's economic strategy.

The 10th anniversary of the initiative in 2024 celebrates its success in reinvigorating the Indian economy, boosting global competitiveness, and setting India on a path to self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

What’s in today’s article?

• Make in India

Make in India (MII)

• Background
  • Make in India came in response to a critical economic situation where, by 2013, India's growth rate had plummeted to its lowest in a decade.
  • The promise of the BRICS Nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) had faded, and India was tagged as one of the so-called ‘Fragile Five’.
  • The country stood at a crossroads, with questions arising about whether it was too large to succeed or too large to fail, necessitating an urgent and substantial economic push.
• About
  • In September 2014, PM Modi launched the "Make in India" initiative as part of a broader strategy to revitalize the nation's economy.
  • The initiative aimed to transform India into a global design and manufacturing hub.
  • At its core, "Make in India" sought to create a robust manufacturing ecosystem that could elevate India's economic position and provide employment to its vast workforce.
  • The initiative emphasized the importance of making India a global hub for design, innovation, and manufacturing across a wide range of sectors.
• Key Sectors Under MII
  • The initiative focused on 27 sectors, grouped under two broad categories:
    • Manufacturing Sectors: Aerospace and Defence; Automotive and Auto Components; Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices; Biotechnology; Textiles and Apparels; Chemicals and Petrochemicals; Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM); Food Processing; Gems and Jewellery; Railways, and more.
    • Service Sectors: Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services (ITeS); Tourism and Hospitality; Medical Value Travel; Transport and Logistics Services; Accounting and Finance Services; Audio Visual and Legal Services, among others.
• Pillars of MII
  • 
• Major initiatives under MII
  • 
  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes
    • The PLI schemes have provided a financial outlay of ₹1.97 lakh crore ($26 billion) across 14 key sectors, including electronics, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
    • As of 2024, these schemes have approved 755 applications, leading to ₹1.23 lakh crore in investment and generating employment for around 8 lakh individuals.
  • PM GatiShakti
    • Introduced in 2021, PM GatiShakti is a national infrastructure plan aimed at achieving multimodal connectivity through the integration of transportation, energy, and communication networks.
    • The program brings together 36 ministries and departments to enhance logistics efficiency and synchronize project implementation.
    • The "seven engines" of the program—railways, roads, ports, waterways, airports, mass transport, and logistics infrastructure—drive economic growth and job creation.
  • Semiconductor Ecosystem Development
    • To reduce dependence on foreign imports and establish self-reliance in critical technologies, the government launched the Semicon India Programme with an outlay of ₹76,000 crore.
  • National Logistics Policy (NLP)
    • Unveiled in 2022, the NLP complements the PM GatiShakti by focusing on reducing logistics costs, improving India’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) ranking, and building a sustainable logistics network.
    • It aims to streamline logistics through digital systems, standardization, and human resource development.
  • Industrialization and Urbanization
    • The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme is India's largest infrastructure initiative aimed at creating "Smart Cities" and advanced industrial hubs.
    • The program promotes manufacturing growth and systematic urbanization through integrated industrial corridors with multi-modal connectivity.
    • The recent approval of 12 new projects, with an investment of ₹28,602 crore, strengthens India’s position as a global manufacturing and investment destination.
  • Startup India
    • Launched on January 2016, the Startup India initiative supports entrepreneurs and aims to build a robust startup ecosystem.
    • By September 2024, India has the third-largest startup ecosystem, with 148,931 DPIIT-recognized startups generating over 15.5 lakh jobs.
  • Tax Reforms
    • The introduction of the GST on July 1, 2017, streamlined India's tax system by unifying 36 states and union territories into a common market.
  • Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
    • India’s UPI has become a global leader in digital payments, processing 46% of the world’s real-time transactions.
    • Between April and July 2024, UPI processed nearly ₹81 lakh crore, highlighting its robust infrastructure and growing consumer trust.
  • Ease of Doing Business
    • India made remarkable progress in improving its business environment, climbing from 142nd in 2014 to 63rd in the World Bank’s Doing Business Report (DBR) 2020, published in October 2019.
    • This jump reflects the government’s sustained efforts to simplify regulations, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and create a more business-friendly environment, significantly boosting investor confidence.
  • Record FDI to Boost MII
    • MII has been significantly boosted by record FDI inflows, driven by simplified FDI rules and improved ease of doing business.
    • FDI inflows increased from $45.14 billion in 2014-15 to a record $84.83 billion in 2021-22.
    • Between 2014 and 2024, India attracted $667.41 billion in FDI, with total inflows reaching $70.95 billion in FY 2023-24.
• Key Achievements
  • Manufacturing Growth
    • India has emerged as the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer.
      • Mobile exports surged from Rs 1,556 crore in 2014 to Rs 1.2 lakh crore by 2024.
    • The electronics sector grew to USD 155 billion in FY23, with mobile phones accounting for 43% of production.
  • Self-Reliance in Defence
    • India has made strides in defence production, highlighted by the launch of INS Vikrant, the country’s first indigenous aircraft carrier.
    • Defence production has reached ₹1.27 lakh crore, with exports to over 90 countries.
    • 'Made in Bihar' boots are now part of the Russian Army’s equipment
  • Global Export Growth
    • India recorded merchandise exports worth $437.06 billion in FY 2023-24, marking its growing role in global trade.
  • Employment Creation
    • The initiative has generated millions of jobs across various sectors, including 8 lakh jobs through PLI schemes alone.
• Other achievements
• Kashmir willow bats have become a global favorite. 
• Amul has expanded its presence by launching its dairy products in the US. 
• The textile industry has created a staggering 14.5 crore jobs across the country.
• India produces an impressive 400 million toys annually, with 10 new toys being created every second.
• Criticism
  • Experts highlights that the scheme has largely been ineffective in either increasing the share of manufacturing in GDP or attracting major investments in the country.
  • Even on the employment front, manufacturing jobs remain few and far between.
  • The share of value addition by manufacturing sector is 15.9 percent in 2023-24 compared to 16.7 percent of GDP (in constant price) in 2013-14.
  • Even in terms of FDI, net FDI inflows have come down from 1.5 percent of GDP in 2013-14 to 0.8 percent in 2023-24.
• Challenges
  • Ease of doing business is still a far cry from what is claimed on paper.
  • High incidence of taxation and high handedness in dealing with tax litigation cases.
  • Scarcity of skilled workers in India and competition from Vietnam and Bangladesh for low-skilled manufacturing.
• Conclusion
  • As "Make in India" enters its second decade, it stands as a testament to India's determination to reshape its manufacturing landscape and enhance its global standing.
  • With the support of strategic reforms, such as the PLI schemes, PM GatiShakti, and the National Logistics Policy, India has emerged as a competitive and self-reliant economy.
  • The success of indigenous projects like the Vande Bharat trains, the INS Vikrant, and the growing electronics sector signals a promising future for India’s industrial and manufacturing sectors.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Introduction
• About SMRs (Meaning, Working, Characteristics, Types, Benefits, Challenges, etc.)
• News Summary (Govt. Measures to promote SMRs)

Introduction:

• As the world grapples with the urgent need to decarbonize energy systems and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, nuclear energy is resurfacing as a critical component of the solution.
• While traditional nuclear power plants are large and costly to build, Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs) are emerging as a promising alternative.
• These compact reactors offer the potential to provide safe, scalable, and sustainable energy to meet global demands.

What are Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)?

• Small Modular Reactors are nuclear reactors designed to generate a small amount of electricity—typically up to 300 MW per unit.
• Unlike traditional large nuclear reactors, which generate up to 1,000 MW or more, SMRs are smaller in size, allowing for modular deployment, enhanced safety features, and reduced construction times.
• SMRs operate on the same fundamental principles as traditional nuclear reactors, using nuclear fission to generate heat.
• This heat is then used to produce steam, which drives a turbine to generate electricity.
• Characteristics of SMRs:
  • Modularity: SMRs can be factory-built in modules and transported to the installation site, which significantly reduces on-site construction time and costs.
  • Scalability: The modular nature allows for flexible scaling, enabling utilities to add capacity as demand grows.
  • Safety Enhancements: Many SMR designs incorporate passive safety systems, which rely on natural forces like gravity and convection, reducing the need for operator intervention in emergencies.
  • Lower Capital Costs: Smaller reactors mean lower upfront investments, making SMRs an attractive option for countries and regions with limited financial resources for energy infrastructure.

Types of SMRs:

• Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs): Most SMRs are based on PWR technology, where water is used as both a coolant and moderator.
• Fast Neutron Reactors: These reactors use fast neutrons and liquid metal coolants to achieve higher efficiency in fuel use.
• Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs): Instead of solid fuel, MSRs use liquid fuel dissolved in molten salt, offering inherent safety benefits by reducing the risk of meltdown.
• High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors (HTGRs): These reactors use helium as a coolant and can operate at higher temperatures, increasing efficiency.

Benefits of SMRs:

• Safety:
  • SMRs are designed with advanced safety features that significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
  • Many designs feature passive safety systems that automatically shut down the reactor without human intervention if certain safety parameters are exceeded.
• Cost-Effectiveness:
  • Traditional nuclear plants are capital-intensive and often face construction delays. SMRs, on the other hand, are designed to be more affordable.
  • With their modular design, they can be manufactured in factories and assembled on-site, lowering construction costs and timelines.
• Scalability & Flexibility:
  • One of the primary advantages of SMRs is their scalability.
  • Utility companies can install a single reactor to meet current energy demand and add more modules over time as demand grows.
  • This makes SMRs particularly suitable for smaller grids or regions with fluctuating energy needs.
• Lower Environmental Impact:
  • While nuclear power is already considered low-carbon, SMRs offer further environmental benefits:
  • Reduced Waste Generation: Some advanced SMR designs are capable of reusing spent nuclear fuel, reducing the volume of radioactive waste.
  • Small Physical Footprint: SMRs occupy less land compared to traditional nuclear plants, making them easier to site in remote or space-constrained areas.

Challenges Facing SMR Deployment:

• Regulatory Hurdles:
  • Nuclear energy, being a highly regulated industry, poses a challenge for SMRs. Existing regulatory frameworks are designed for large nuclear plants, and SMRs will require tailored regulations that account for their smaller size and enhanced safety features.
• Public Perception:
  • The legacy of nuclear disasters such as Chernobyl and Fukushima continues to impact public perception. Gaining public trust and dispelling myths around the safety of SMRs will be critical for widespread acceptance.
• High Initial Costs:
  • While SMRs are more affordable than large nuclear plants, the upfront costs are still higher compared to renewable energy sources like wind and solar.
  • This can make it difficult to secure investment without clear long-term policy support and financial incentives.
• Waste Disposal:
  • Although SMRs produce less nuclear waste, the issue of waste disposal remains.
  • A comprehensive strategy for handling and storing nuclear waste will be essential for the sustainable operation of SMRs. 

News Summary: Small nuclear reactors get traction

• India's ambitions to enter the Small Modular Reactors manufacturing value chain are showing positive signs, with private players expressing interest in deploying these reactors at their captive sites.
• SMRs, which range between 30 MWe to 300 MWe per unit, are seen as key to keeping nuclear energy commercially competitive.
• India is positioning itself as a leader in SMRs, both as part of its clean energy transition and as a foreign policy initiative.
• Russia, a major SMR player alongside China, is reportedly looking to expand nuclear cooperation with India in this field.
• Technical discussions are underway to assess the feasibility of SMRs in India, with the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 guiding policy decisions. The Indian government is also considering private sector involvement in this sector.
• Globally, only two SMRs have reached operational status—Akademik Lomonosov in Russia and HTR-PM in China.
• India aims to emerge as a credible alternative, leveraging its history of operating small reactors and cost-effective nuclear manufacturing capabilities.

Steps Taken by Government to Promote SMRs:

• Integration of SMRs into National Energy Plans: The Indian government has highlighted nuclear energy as a crucial part of its clean energy transition. SMRs, being a flexible and scalable alternative, have been integrated into discussions on future energy policies to diversify the nuclear energy portfolio.
• Long-term Strategy for Net-Zero: India’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 includes nuclear energy as a key component, and the government is increasingly considering SMRs as a clean and safe option for decentralized energy production.
• Budget Allocations for Nuclear R&D: The Indian government has allocated funds in its budget to enhance nuclear research, focusing on advanced reactor technologies like SMRs. This funding supports R&D efforts and contributes to infrastructure development.
  • In the 2024-25 Indian Budget, the government announced plans to partner with the private sector to develop and set up "Bharat Small Reactors", essentially SMRs.

Why in News?

NITI Aayog, the top think tank of the government, had opposed some of the provisions of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023. The Aayog particularly raised concerns regarding the changes proposed to the Right to Information (RTI) Act 2005.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• What is the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA) 2023?
• Key Features of the DPDPA
• Concerns Regarding DPDPA Raised by the NITI Aayog

What is the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA) 2023?

• It is a comprehensive privacy and data protection law that provides guidelines on processing, storing and securing personal data.
• It recognises the right of individuals, referred to as data principals, to protect their personal data during the processing of that data for lawful purposes.
• The law culminates a seven-year journey that began when the Supreme Court of India (SC), in the K.S. Puttaswamy case, ruled the right to privacy was protected under the Constitution of India in 2017.
• The DPDPA includes provisions regarding consent, legitimate uses, breaches, data fiduciary and processor responsibilities, and individuals' rights over their data.
• The law doesn't apply to paper data unless it's digitised or data collected for personal, artistic and journalistic use.
• Fines for non-compliance range from Rs 10,000 for individuals to Rs 2.5 billion for organisations.
• The law is yet to be operationalised, with necessary rules for its implementation still pending.

Key Features of the DPDPA:

• Applicability:
  • It applies to all types of data linked to an individual, including name, addresses, ID numbers and behavioural information such as location, web history and preferences.
  • But it doesn't apply to data made publicly available by an individual or third parties.
  • This means information that an individual has consented to share is considered protected, but not data indexed by search engines or social media sites.
• Defines data processing:
  • It includes how the data is collected, recorded, structured, stored, shared or automatically acted on.
  • This data can be processed in India or other countries unless specifically barred and applies to all companies that offer goods or services within India, regardless where their headquarters is located.
• Defines responsibilities of specific entities:
  • Data fiduciaries are businesses and other organisations that interact with individuals to collect, amend and delete data as requested.
    • They need to specify why data is required, how long it's retained and how it can be used.
  • Significant data fiduciary (SDF): Companies that process large amounts of data may be designated as a SDF and need to
    • Appoint an Indian data protection officer,
    • Conduct third-party audits and
    • Perform data protection impact assessments.
  • Data processors are third-party businesses that process data on behalf of fiduciaries. They can include cloud providers or services in relation to KYC, fraud detection and credit ratings.

Concerns Regarding DPDPA Raised by the NITI Aayog:

• The DPDP Bill proposed an amendment to a section [Section 8(1)(j)] in the RTI Act with such effect that disclosure of personal information about public officials would not be allowed even when these are justified in larger public interest.
• The NITI Aayog (then in the inter-ministerial consultations) suggested the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to not pass the proposed law in its current form as it could weaken the RTI Act.
• The provision to amend the RTI Act was also criticised by the Opposition parties and civil society activists during the consultation period and when the Bill came up for discussion in Parliament.
• However, the MeitY kept the proposed changes to the RTI Act unchanged despite the reservations of NITI Aayog.
• The government was of the view that the right to privacy is a fundamental right under the Constitution of India, and should be made available to officers in government institutions as well.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Introduction (About the Recent Controversy)
• Adulteration Allegations (Report Findings, How Adulteration is Detected, Challenges, etc.)
• Conclusion

Introduction:

• The Tirupati laddu, a revered offering at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) in Andhra Pradesh, has recently come under scrutiny after reports suggested that the ghee used in its preparation might be adulterated with animal fats, including beef tallow and lard.
• The controversy has sparked public outrage and raised questions about the authenticity of the ingredients used in this iconic prasadam.

Allegations of Adulteration:

• The controversy began after a technical report by the Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food (CALF) of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) found that the ghee supplied to TTD was adulterated.
• The report identified the presence of various fats, including those from soybean, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, linseed, cottonseed, fish oil, coconut, palm oil, and even animal fats such as beef tallow and lard.
• The issue gained further traction when former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu publicly alleged that animal fats, including beef and pig fat, were being used in the laddus, leading to widespread protests.

How Adulteration is Detected?

• Milk fat, like all organic fats, is composed of triglycerides, which are glycerol bonded with fatty acids.
• The composition of these triglycerides can vary significantly depending on the source of the fat, such as cow ghee, vegetable oils, or animal fats.
• The most precise method for detecting adulteration is gas chromatography, which separates the chemical components of a sample, creating a waveform that identifies the presence and proportions of various triglycerides.
• One widely used method, developed by German scientist Dietz Precht in 1991, uses a set of five equations to generate ‘s values’ that can detect specific adulterations.
• Each ‘s value’ corresponds to a type of foreign fat, such as s1 for soybean oil, s3 for palm oil and beef tallow, and s4 for lard.
• To qualify as pure cow ghee, all five values must lie within a specific range. Even if one value falls outside this range, it indicates the presence of adulteration.

Findings from the Tirupati Laddu Analysis:

• The analysis conducted on two ghee samples revealed that all the ‘s values’ were outside the prescribed ranges, suggesting adulteration.
• For instance, the s3 value, associated with palm oil and beef tallow, was recorded at 22.43, well outside the acceptable range of 95.9 to 104.1.
• However, experts caution that this alone does not confirm the presence of beef tallow, as the test identifies adulterants as groups rather than specific fats.

Challenges in Differentiating Sources of Fat:

• Differentiating the exact sources of fat, especially in the complex Indian context, presents significant challenges.
• The methods used for detecting adulteration were originally developed for European cows, and applying them to Indian cows requires recalibration of the ‘s values’ based on local biochemical data.
• A lack of specific baseline data for Indian bovines and tallow complicates the accuracy of such tests.
• Experts suggest that establishing a comprehensive database on the biochemistry of Indian ghee and animal fats is crucial for precise detection.
• According to experts, accurate differentiation of adulterants is possible with advanced spectrography methods, provided India-specific data is available.

Conclusion:

• The allegations of adulteration in Tirupati laddus have raised serious concerns about food safety and authenticity.
• While advanced testing methods indicate the presence of foreign fats, pinpointing specific adulterants remains complex without localized data.
• As this issue unfolds, it underscores the need for stringent quality checks, transparency, and reliable data tailored to Indian conditions to ensure the purity of offerings that hold cultural and religious significance.

Why in news?

The Israel Defense Forces killed Hasan Nasrallah, the longtime leader of Hezbollah — the Iran-backed armed group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon.

Nasrallah remained in charge of Hezbollah for more than 32 years. He played a key role in building the group into the potent force and was one of the most influential and best-known figures in the Middle East.

What’s in today’s article?

• Hezbollah
• Why are Israel and Hezbollah fighting?
• Key takeaways from Israel’s attack on Hezbollah chief

Hezbollah

• Hezbollah was formed in 1982 as a Shia resistance group with support from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) following Israel’s invasion of Lebanon.
  • Israel aimed to expel the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) from Lebanon and succeeded in relocating the PLO to Tunisia and establishing a buffer zone in southern Lebanon.
  • However, the invasion spurred the rise of Hezbollah, which became a long-term security threat to Israel.
• Historically marginalized in Lebanon, the Shia community reorganized under Hezbollah, which now operates as a powerful political, military, and social force.
• The group has a political party with parliamentarians, provides social services to poorer sections, and commands a strong military unit backed by Iran, with fighters and a range of missiles.

Why are Israel and Hezbollah fighting?

• Hezbollah’s core purpose is resistance against Israel, with the destruction of Israel stated in its manifesto.
• Regarded as a terrorist organization by Israel and the U.S., Hezbollah is credited for forcing Israel to end its occupation of southern Lebanon in 2000.
• The last full-scale war between Israel and Hezbollah occurred in 2006 after a Hezbollah cross-border raid led to an Israeli invasion of Lebanon.
• The latest conflict flared after Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
  • In response to Israel’s retaliation on Gaza, Hezbollah began firing rockets into Israel in solidarity with the Palestinians, prompting Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon.
• This ongoing border conflict has displaced 70,000 Israelis, with tensions escalating after Israel killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in a Beirut airstrike, leading to intensified rocket attacks from Hezbollah.

Key takeaways from Israel’s attack on Hezbollah chief

• A seismic episode
  • Hasan Nasrallah, 64, was Hezbollah’s leader for over three decades, and his assassination by Israeli forces is seen as a pivotal event, likened to the killing of Osama bin Laden by U.S. Navy SEALs.
  • Nasrallah became Hezbollah’s leader in 1992 after the assassination of Abbas al-Musawi by Israel.
  • Under his leadership, Hezbollah forced Israel to withdraw from Lebanon after wars in 2000 and 2006.
  • Nasrallah's Hezbollah harassed Israel after Hamas's October 7, 2023 attacks, leading to the evacuation of 63,000 Israelis.
  • His death eliminates one of Israel’s most significant military threats.
• Half of Hezbollah's leadership council eliminated
  • Recently, targeted blasts by Israel killed or severely injured around 3,500 middle-to-senior Hezbollah leaders who used pagers and walkie-talkies for secure communication.
    • These leaders, holding ranks equivalent to Colonel to General, were crucial for decision-making, organizing retaliatory strikes, and countering Israeli threats.
  • The crippling of this leadership tier likely explains Hezbollah’s inability to launch counter-attacks following Israel’s aerial strikes in southern Lebanon and Beirut.
  • This disruption in command and control weakened Hezbollah's decision-making and intelligence-sharing.
• A power moment for Israel
  • The Axis of Resistance is Iran’s term for the groups targeting Israel, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis in Yemen.
  • Hezbollah, the strongest of this group, has launched over 8,000 rockets at northern Israel and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights since Hamas's attacks last year.
  • The assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah marks the peak of Israel’s campaign against the group's leadership, which began with the killing of Fuad Shukr in July.
    • Israel has also eliminated Hamas's political head, Ismail Haniyeh, and the military commander behind the October 7 attacks, Mohammed Deif, leaving only Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar alive.
  • Meanwhile, the Houthis are a smaller group with limited capabilities, mainly targeting international maritime traffic in the Red Sea.
• Significant moment for Lebanon as well
  • Hezbollah has long been the most powerful force in Lebanon, dominating both militarily and politically, with strongholds in Beirut and extensive military assets in rural areas.
  • Its mass support, largely due to its charitable activities and propaganda, has significantly waned since 2019, when large-scale protests erupted against Lebanon’s corrupt establishment, of which Hezbollah is seen as a part.
  • While Nasrallah’s killing sparked street protests by his mourners, it also offers Lebanon a chance to reduce Hezbollah’s grip on the country, potentially easing its influence over national affairs.
• Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and Iran to have a key role in coming days
  • It remains uncertain whether Nasrallah's killing will escalate the West Asian crisis or lead to a de-escalation.
  • Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are closely monitoring developments, particularly Iran's potential response—whether it will retaliate and prolong the conflict or allow tensions to ease.
  • Another key issue is the stalled hostage deal, with 101 hostages still held by Hamas, some feared dead. Their release could signal a possible end to the conflict.
• India wants early return of peace in the region
  • New Delhi, like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, seeks stability in West Asia to resume connectivity projects such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and focus on regional prosperity.
  • India's primary concerns are the safety of around 9 million Indians living in the West Asian and Gulf regions, as well as energy security, with two-thirds of its crude oil and natural gas coming from this area.
  • A broader conflict would threaten both.
  • New Delhi is closely monitoring Israel and Iran's next moves and has issued security advisories for Lebanon amid the ongoing tensions.

Why in news?

The 'Draft Guidelines for Withdrawal of Life Support in Terminally Ill Patients,' was released by the Union Health Ministry. Feedback and suggestions have been invited from the stakeholders on the draft by October 20.

While doctors have been informally advising families to withdraw care for terminal patients, there was no formal legal framework.

What’s in today’s article?

• Euthanasia (Meaning, Types of Euthanasia, Legality in India)
• Draft guidelines on passive euthanasia

Euthanasia

• About
  • It is defined as the hastening of death of a patient to prevent further sufferings.
• Types
  • Active Euthanasia
    • Active euthanasia refers to the physician deliberate act, usually the administration of lethal drugs, to end an incurably or terminally ill patient’s life.
    • There are three types of active euthanasia, in relation to giving consent for euthanasia, namely:
      • Voluntary euthanasia – at patient request,
      • Nonvoluntary – without patient consent,
      • Involuntary euthanasia – patient is not in a position to give consent.
  • Passive Euthanasia
    • Passive euthanasia refers to the intentional withholding or withdrawal of medical treatments or life-sustaining interventions, allowing a person to die naturally from their underlying condition.
    • This can include stopping treatments like ventilators, feeding tubes, or medications that keep the patient alive.
    • Decisions for passive euthanasia are typically made based on the patient's wishes, advance directives, or through family members and healthcare proxies when the patient cannot make decisions themselves. 
• Legality in India
  • Passive euthanasia
    • A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court in Common Cause vs Union of India (2018) recognised a person’s right to die with dignity.
      • It said that a terminally ill person can opt for passive euthanasia and execute a living will to refuse medical treatment.
    • The Court permitted an individual to draft a living will specifying that she or he will not be put on life support if they slip into an incurable coma.
    • The Court recognised the right to die with dignity as a fundamental right and an aspect of Article 21 (Right to Life).
  • Active euthanasia
    • In India, active euthanasia is a crime. Only those who are brain dead can be taken off life support with the help of family members.
• Legality in other parts of the world
  • Euthanasia is legal in several countries. Euthanasia is legal in the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Spain.
  • Switzerland allows assisted suicide.
  • Canada permits both euthanasia and assisted suicide, while certain U.S. states, such as Oregon, Washington, and California, allow assisted suicide under strict regulations. Colombia has legalized euthanasia.
  • Each country or region has specific criteria, such as terminal illness or unbearable suffering, that must be met for euthanasia or assisted suicide to be performed legally.

Draft guidelines on passive euthanasia

• Defined terminal illness
  • The draft has defined terminal illness as an irreversible or incurable condition from which death is inevitable in the foreseeable future.
• Based on four conditions
  • The guidelines for withdrawing or withholding medical treatment in terminally ill patients are based on four key conditions:
    • The individual has been declared brainstem dead.
    • There is a medical assessment that the patient's condition is advanced and unlikely to improve with aggressive treatment.
    • The patient or their surrogate has provided informed refusal to continue life support after understanding the prognosis.
    • The procedure follows the directives set by the Supreme Court.
• Allow patients to decide on life support and resuscitation
• Developed by AIIMS experts, these guidelines allow patients to decide on life support and resuscitation.
• They also permit the withdrawal of supportive care such as ventilation or dialysis if a patient is brain dead, unlikely to benefit from further intervention, and if the patient or surrogate refuses care.
• Provisions related to advance medical directives
  • The guidelines also mention advance medical directives, where individuals document their treatment preferences in case they lose decision-making capacity.
  • The physician, upon deeming life-sustaining treatments inappropriate, will refer the case to a primary medical board for review.
  • If the board agrees, a shared decision is made with the family, and a secondary medical board’s approval is required before withdrawing support.

Context

• India’s land governance system is deeply entangled in a complex network of legal, institutional, and administrative challenges that have hampered the country’s economic and social development.
• As highlighted in the Economic Survey 2023-24, these challenges are barriers to achieving multiple developmental goals.
• While the 2024 Budget proposed technological solutions to modernise India’s land administration, such initiatives do not address the deeply rooted legal and institutional barriers that hinder effective land governance.

An Analysis of Barriers in Land Governance

• Unclear Land Titles and Insecure Tenure
  • One of the most significant issues in India’s land governance is the lack of clear and secure land titles.
  • Ownership of land in India is often ambiguous due to outdated records, poor maintenance of land registries, and overlapping claims.
  • This problem is especially prevalent in rural areas where the majority of landholdings are informal and not officially registered.
  • Farmers and landowners cannot confidently invest in long-term improvements on their land, as they lack formal proof of ownership.
  • Ambiguous ownership frequently leads to land disputes, which clog the judicial system.
• Fragmented and Conflicting Legal Framework
  • India’s land governance is subject to a myriad of conflicting laws that vary across states and regions, adding to the complexity and inefficiency of the system.
  • These laws regulate land ownership, transfers, leasing, and land use in ways that are often contradictory or overlapping.
  • Several laws impose restrictions on the transfer of land, especially agricultural land.
  • In many states, only certain individuals or groups can purchase agricultural land, and transfers are subject to rigid regulations that differ from one state to another.
• Fragmentation of Land Holdings
  • Land fragmentation is one of the most pressing challenges in India’s agricultural sector.
  • Over time, as land is passed down through generations, it is divided into smaller and smaller parcels.
  • Small landholdings prevent farmers from benefiting from economies of scale, as they lack the resources to invest in modern machinery, advanced irrigation techniques, or high-quality seeds.
• Gender Inequality in Land Ownership
  • Despite several legal provisions that aim to improve women’s access to land ownership, gender inequality remains a pervasive issue in India’s land governance.
  • Women, especially in rural areas, are often denied their rightful share of property due to social norms, patriarchal traditions, and legal loopholes.
  • While legal reforms such as the Hindu Succession Act have been introduced to grant women equal inheritance rights, in practice, women are often pressured to forgo their claims to family property in favour of their male relatives.
• Land Use Restrictions and Regulatory Barriers
  • Many laws in India impose restrictions on how land can be used, particularly in the agricultural sector.
  • These land use regulations are often rigid and outdated, preventing landowners from converting their land for more economically viable purposes.
  • For instance, land that is designated for agricultural use cannot easily be converted for industrial or commercial purposes, even if such a conversion would lead to higher economic returns.
  • These regulations also limit leasing opportunities, thereby stifling investment in the land.

Proposed Reforms: Digitisation and Its Limitations

• Proposed Reforms
  • To address some of these challenges, the 2024 Budget proposed several digitisation initiatives, including the digitisation of land records, the creation of land registries, and the assignment of unique identification numbers to land parcels.
  • Additionally, efforts to integrate land records with digital platforms such as Agri Stack have been suggested to streamline land administration.
  • While these reforms could modernise the way India manages its land records, they fall short of addressing the root causes of land-related problems, which are legal and institutional in nature.
• Limitations of Digitisation
  • The uncertainty surrounding land ownership and insecure property titles are not solely due to the paper-based nature of land records but stem from conflicting laws and administrative procedures.
  • For example, digitising urban land records may not necessarily lead to improved land ownership or access to formal credit, as long as the underlying legal framework remains convoluted and restrictive.
  • A digitised system cannot overcome the risks associated with land transactions, which remain subject to numerous laws restricting land transfers, leasing, and use.
  • The persistence of legal ambiguity, particularly in the context of agricultural land leasing, further undermines the effectiveness of digitization efforts.

The Real Solution to India’s Complex Land Governance System

• Legal Recognition of Land Titles
  • A central component of reform must be the establishment of a legally recognised and enforceable system of land titles.
  • This involves creating a unified framework that provides a clear and indisputable record of ownership.
  • The current system, in which ownership is often based on possession rather than formal title, needs to be replaced with one that provides individuals and businesses with secure and transferable property rights.
• Guaranteed Tenure Security
  • Strengthening tenure security is crucial for encouraging investment in land.
  • Farmers, in particular, need assurance that they will not lose their land to expropriation or disputes, which will enable them to make long-term investments in agricultural productivity.
  • Clear property rights are also necessary to give landowners access to formal credit, as banks are more willing to offer loans when the collateral is secured by legally recognized titles.
• Liberalising Land Transfers
  • Many state laws impose unnecessary restrictions on the sale and purchase of agricultural land, such as limiting who can buy or sell land and restricting the use of land for non-agricultural purposes.
  • These restrictions hinder the transfer of land to more efficient users, stifle investment, and discourage land consolidation.
  • Legal reforms should aim to remove such restrictions while ensuring that land transfers are transparent, equitable, and subject to fair compensation.
• Reforming Land Leasing Laws
  • In many states, land leasing is either prohibited or heavily regulated.
  • This creates a barrier to the efficient use of land, as owners who are unable or unwilling to farm their land cannot legally lease it to more capable or interested farmers.
  • Reforming these leasing laws to allow for more flexible and transparent leasing arrangements would not only increase agricultural productivity but also provide a livelihood option for landless farmers and rural workers.
• Simplifying Consolidation Procedures
  • The legal and administrative barriers to land consolidation need to be removed.
  • This could involve simplifying the process for merging small and fragmented parcels of land into larger, more economically viable holdings.
  • Legal frameworks should encourage voluntary land consolidation, offering incentives to landowners who choose to merge their parcels for more productive use.
• Supporting Collective Farming Models
  • Another avenue for land consolidation is through collective farming models, where multiple small farmers pool their resources and land to achieve economies of scale.
  • Legal reforms could promote such models by providing clear guidelines for land pooling and collective management, ensuring that farmers retain their ownership rights while benefiting from joint production.

Conclusion

• While digitisation can assist in modernising land administration, it is only one piece of the puzzle.
• Without addressing the complex web of conflicting laws, regulatory restrictions, and administrative inefficiencies, India will not be able to fully unlock the potential of its land resources for economic development and social equity.
• True progress will only be achieved through a combination of legal reforms and technological advancements, paving the way for a more inclusive and productive land governance system.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Textile Sector (Introduction, Significance, Key Segments, Govt. Initiatives, etc.)
• News Summary

Textile Sector in India:

• The textile sector is one of the oldest and most significant industries in India, playing a pivotal role in the country's economic landscape.
• The industry encompasses a wide range of activities, including fiber production, spinning, weaving, knitting, dyeing, and apparel manufacturing, making it a key driver of economic growth and rural development.

Significance of the Textile Sector in India:

• Economic Contribution: The textile sector contributes about 2.3% to India’s GDP and 7% to the country’s industrial output.
• Employment: It is the second-largest employer after agriculture, providing direct employment to over 45 million people and indirectly supporting 100 million people in allied sectors.
• Exports: The sector accounts for approximately 12% of India’s total export earnings. In FY 2023, India’s textile and apparel exports stood at around $44.4 billion, making it one of the largest exporters of textiles globally.
• Diverse Segments: The industry includes handloom, power loom, and mill sectors, with India being a global leader in the production of cotton, jute, and silk.

Key Segments of the Textile Industry:

• Cotton Textiles: India is the largest producer of cotton globally, with over 30% of the world's cotton production. The cotton segment plays a crucial role, with a strong domestic supply chain supporting both domestic and export markets.
• Handloom and Handicrafts: India’s handloom sector is renowned worldwide for its traditional designs and quality. With more than 4.3 million weavers, this segment preserves India’s rich cultural heritage and contributes significantly to rural employment.
• Technical Textiles: This is a rapidly growing segment that focuses on textiles with functional applications, such as in healthcare, automotive, and agriculture. The market for technical textiles in India is projected to grow at a CAGR of 20%, reaching $23 billion by 2025.
• Man-Made Fibres (MMF): The MMF segment has been gaining traction, contributing 30% to India’s textile market. It includes synthetic fibres like polyester, which are widely used in various industries due to their durability and versatility.

Current Challenges Facing the Textile Sector:

• Raw Material Fluctuations: The industry faces challenges due to fluctuations in raw material prices, especially cotton, impacting production costs and profitability.
• Technological Upgradation: Outdated technology in many units hampers productivity and quality. There is a need for significant investment in modern machinery and digital tools to compete globally.
• Environmental Concerns: The textile industry is resource-intensive, consuming large amounts of water and energy. Environmental sustainability has become a critical issue, necessitating the adoption of eco-friendly practices.
• Competition from Other Countries: India faces stiff competition from countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and China, which offer lower production costs and faster turnaround times, particularly in the apparel segment.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Compliance with various regulatory norms and access to government schemes can be complex, often leading to delays and increased costs for textile manufacturers.

Government Initiatives to Boost the Textile Sector:

• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: The government introduced a ₹10,683 crore PLI scheme specifically for the textile sector to promote the production of man-made fibres and technical textiles. This is expected to attract investments worth ₹19,000 crore and create 7.5 lakh jobs.
• National Technical Textiles Mission: Launched with an outlay of ₹1,480 crore, this mission aims to position India as a global leader in technical textiles by enhancing domestic production and research.
• Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS): This scheme provides financial assistance for upgrading machinery, aiming to modernize the textile industry and enhance productivity.
• Skill Development Programs: Initiatives like the Samarth (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector) focus on skill development, training over 10 lakh youth in various textile-related trades to meet the industry’s demand for skilled labor.
• Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (MITRA) Parks: The government plans to set up 7 MITRA parks with state-of-the-art infrastructure, common facilities, and plug-and-play ecosystems to attract investments and enhance the competitiveness of Indian textiles.

News Summary:

• About 12 textile companies are set to receive the first set of incentive payment under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme.
• This follows signs of export recovery in the month of August, after delays due to weak demand in Western markets.
• The PLI scheme, launched in 2021 with a budget of ₹10,683 crore, aims to boost production of man-made fibres (MMF), apparel, MMF fabrics, and technical textiles.
  • The scheme will enhance manufacturing and investments, leveraging India’s complete value chain.
• The Ministry of Textiles has outlined a roadmap to create 4.5 to 6 crore jobs in the textile sector by 2030 and expand the market size to $350 billion from the current $165 billion.
• Despite these efforts, India’s textile exports declined for the second consecutive year in 2023-24.
• The World Bank reported that India’s share in global exports of labour-intensive sectors like apparel and textiles has stagnated, while countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam have gained market share, aided by free trade agreements and duty concessions.
• The Bank suggested that India could benefit from diversifying exports, leveraging geopolitical shifts, and reducing trade barriers to boost the textile sector's growth.

Why in News? A Bench of the five senior-most Supreme Court judges headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) expressed serious concern about objectionable comments made by a Karnataka High Court Justice (V Srishananda).

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Comments Made by the Karnataka HC Judge
• Watchdog of the Judges of Constitutional Courts
• Previous Instances of Impeachment Proceedings Against the Judges
• Judicial Interventions to Discipline Judges

Comments Made by the Karnataka HC Judge:

• During a hearing, he had referred to a particular locality of Bengaluru as being in Pakistan. In another hearing, he had made an objectionable comment against a female lawyer.
• Though the SC withdrew its intervention after the judge submitted an apology, even a slight reprimand from the apex court to a judge of a constitutional court is uncommon and conveys a powerful message.
• The situation also highlights the constitutional limitations on how the judiciary can discipline judges.

Watchdog of the Judges of Constitutional Courts:

• The Constitution of India [Article 124(4)]:
  • A judge of the SC (or any HC) can be removed from office only by an order of the President passed after an address by each House of Parliament supported -
    • By a majority of the total membership of that House and
    • By a majority of not less than two-third of the members of the House present and voting
  • And has been presented to the President in the same session for such removal on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
• Significance of the above provision: It gives a great degree of protection to the judges to ensure that they can exercise their powers without fear of interference from the executive.
• Issues with the above provision - Impeachment or nothing:
  • The impeachment, which is a political process, is the only recourse to dealing with errant judges.
  • “Proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity” are the only two grounds for removal of a judge of the constitutional court.
  • The level of political consensus required to pass an impeachment motion, makes the standard for impeachment very high.

Previous Instances of Impeachment Proceedings Against the Judges:

• Only five instances of impeachment proceedings in history:
  • Against Justice V Ramaswami (SC, 1993),
  • Justice Soumitra Sen (Calcutta HC, 2011),
  • Justice J B Pardiwala (Gujarat HC, 2015),
  • Justice C V Nagarjuna (HC of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, 2017), and
  • Then CJI Justice Dipak Misra (2018).
• Results of these proceedings: These proceedings were never successful. Justice Sen was impeached by Rajya Sabha and subsequently resigned.
• Alternatives to impeachment: Over the years, the SC has created substitute methods of disciplining judges because, under the current legal framework, the alternative to impeachment is to just turn a blind eye. 

Judicial Interventions to Discipline Judges:

• Judicial actions:
  • As the court of last resort, the SC’s word is final and binding. This means that through judicial action, it can send a message to errant judges, even if such a power is not defined in the letter of the law.
  • For example, a five-judge Bench of the SC headed by then CJI Jagdish Khehar held Calcutta HC’s C S Karnan guilty of contempt of court, and sentenced him to six months’ imprisonment in 2017.
    • Karnan retired less than a month after the SC verdict, and was taken into custody to serve his sentence.
  • This resulted in an uneasy precedent, with many voicing concerns about one constitutional court disciplining the judges of another.
• Transfer policy:
  • The SC Collegium, comprising five senior-most judges of the apex court including the CJI, recommends the transfer of HC judges.
  • Given that the decisions of the Collegium are opaque, this transfer policy can be deployed as a tool to discipline judges as well.
  • In 2010, the then Karnataka HC judge (P D Dinakaran was facing allegations of land grabbing and corruption) was transferred to the Sikkim HC.
  • The move was criticised as only “transferring corruption” rather than dealing with it. However, Justice Dinakaran resigned in 2011.

Why in news?

On September 25, Delhi's air quality dropped into the ‘poor’ category (AQI 200-300) for the first time since mid-June, marking the start of North India’s bad air season.

In response, the Delhi government launched a 21-point Winter Action Plan to combat pollution, which includes: Drone monitoring of pollution hotspots; Deployment of anti-smog guns; Exploring the possibility of creating artificial rain.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), responsible for implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the NCR, is closely monitoring the situation.

What’s in today’s article?

• Air Quality Index (AQI)
• Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
• Why India’s already dangerous air pollution is set to worsen?
• Flaws in the steps taken to address the air pollution in India
• Way forward

Air Quality Index (AQI)

• 
• AQI was launched in October 2014 to disseminate information on air quality in an easily understandable form for the general public.
• The measurement of air quality is based on eight pollutants, namely, PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, CO, O3, NH3, and Pb
• The AQI transforms complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number for ease of understanding.

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)?

• CAQM is a statutory body formed under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas, Act 2021.
• The commission aims at better coordination, research, identification, and resolution of problems related to air quality in NCR and adjoining areas.

Why India’s already dangerous air pollution is set to worsen?

• India’s Air Pollution Crisis Set to Worsen Post-Monsoon
  • With the southwest monsoon season ending, India’s air pollution is expected to deteriorate due to stagnant air and temperature inversion, where warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing pollutants from dispersing.
  • This leads to extremely hazardous levels of PM 2.5 and other pollutants.
  • While smog intensifies in winter, poor air quality is a year-round issue that requires sustained and comprehensive action.
  • Meteorological conditions, such as temperature inversion and low wind speeds, particularly affect the Indo-Gangetic plain, worsening pollution.
• Inequality and Air Pollution
  • Economic inequality exacerbates the crisis, with wealthier citizens able to afford air purifiers or relocate to cleaner areas, while poorer communities face the full impact of toxic air.
  • This highlights the issue of equity in access to clean air.
• Various Pollution Sources
  • India’s air pollution crisis stems from multiple, overlapping sources.
  • Year-round contributors such as biomass burning for cooking, trash-burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial activity combine with episodic events such as farm stubble burning and festival firecrackers.

Flaws in the steps taken to address the air pollution in India

• Current strategies
  • India has adopted several superficial measures to combat air pollution, such as smog towers, water guns, and odd-even road sharing.
  • The latest "silver bullet" is cloud seeding, a technique that disperses chemicals to induce rainfall, temporarily clearing the air.
  • These strategies prioritize appearance over addressing the root causes of pollution.
• Cloud Seeding: Limited Impact and Ethical Concerns
  • Cloud seeding offers only a short-term reprieve, diverting attention from needed systemic changes.
  • Its environmental and ethical issues include:
    • Redistributing rainfall, potentially depriving other regions and worsening water scarcity.
    • Chemicals like silver iodide may pose long-term risks to agriculture and ecosystems.
  • In a country like India, where water resources are already strained, cloud seeding risks aggravating regional disparities.
• Flaws of Smog Towers
  • Smog towers, intended to clean surrounding air, are another flawed solution. Their impact is limited to the immediate area, leaving broader pollution issues unaddressed.
  • Furthermore, the energy consumption needed to operate these towers may contribute to additional emissions, potentially making them counterproductive.

Way Forward

• India's focus on cloud seeding and smog towers detracts from addressing air pollution at its source.
• Instead, science-based solutions and a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach are required.
• Coordination Among Agencies
  • Tackling air pollution demands collaboration across government bodies overseeing transport, industry, agriculture, and urban planning.
  • For example, addressing crop stubble burning needs cooperation among farmers, policymakers, and regulators. A unified, year-round, nationwide strategy is essential.
• Capacity Building and Critical Thinking
  • Building capacity among stakeholders, from researchers to policymakers, and fostering critical thinking are crucial for data-driven solutions.
  • Institutional frameworks must be strengthened, with investments in research and air quality monitoring systems across India, including satellite-based and low-cost sensor networks.
• Beyond Tech-Centric Solutions
  • While technological fixes can help, they often serve vested interests, benefiting wealthier citizens with air purifiers, while leaving poorer communities vulnerable.
  • The real fight for clean air is political, and quick fixes perpetuate inequalities rather than addressing root causes.
• Long-Term Commitment
  • India needs a multi-decadal, multi-sectoral effort grounded in scientific thinking and committed to sustained collaboration to tackle the structural issues behind its air pollution crisis.

Context:

Global markets are facing a surge in Chinese exports, referred to as "China Shock 2.0," which has intensified trade tensions. Major economies like the US, India, and others are responding with heightened tariffs to counter the influx of Chinese goods.

What’s in today’s article?

• China Shock 1.0
• China’s increasing share of global export
• India – China Trade Relation

China Shock 1.0

• In the 2000s, there was a debate on whether China would become a capitalist powerhouse or retain its communist ideology.
• US President Bill Clinton supported China’s accession to the WTO, believing that economic integration would lead to political reform in Beijing and align it with values like economic freedom.
  • Clinton argued that China’s WTO membership would not only increase imports of American products but also foster democratic principles.
• However, the years following China’s entry into the WTO became known as the "China Shock".
• Cheap Chinese goods, driven by a large, inexpensive labor force, flooded global markets, leading to widespread manufacturing job losses internationally.
• This shock disrupted Western economies and had a detrimental impact on Indian manufacturing and trade as well.

China’s increasing share of global export

• Statistics
  • China’s share in global export market has increased by 1-7% in the last five years. From sub 14%, it has moved beyond 15.5% in last five years.
  • Between July 2023 and July 2024 the exports of China have increased by $18.8B (6.67%) from $282B to $301B, while imports increased by $14.8B (7.33%) from $201B to $216B.
  • Hence, it can be said that China's share of global exports has been increasing. It is now the world's largest exporter and trading nation.
• Factors driving the renewed wave of goods exports by China
  • China’s ambition to move up the export value chain to high-tech sectors such as solar equipment, electric vehicles, and semiconductors.
  • Domestic demand slump, forcing China to export more aggressively.
  • Other supporting factors include:
    • China’s supporting industrial policies which revolve around tax incentives, subsidies and greater access to funds.
    • Increased focus on R&D also forms part of China’s Industrial Policy.
• Made in China 2025 strategy
  • Beijing’s 'Made in China 2025' strategy is a long-term plan to transform China into a global high-tech manufacturing leader by 2049.
    • Introduced in 2015, this strategy is aimed at:
      • achieving 70% self-sufficiency in hi-tech industries by 2025,
      • competing with other manufacturing rivals by 2035, and
      • transforming the country into a global manufacturing powerhouse by 2049.
    • This involves promoting advanced sectors such as electric vehicles, semiconductors, and renewable energy.
    • Under this strategy, the government provides subsidies, including low-interest loans and tax breaks, to hi-tech companies.
• Impact on India and Other Economies
  • IMF recently highlighted concerns about China's external surpluses, driven by industrial policies aimed at boosting exports amidst weak domestic demand.
  • The IMF warned that this could lead to "China Shock 2.0", displacing workers and harming industrial activity in other countries.
  • The rise in exports threatens local industries and global trade stability, escalating international trade tensions.
  • In order to counter this surge, recently, the US has imposed significant tariff hikes on Chinese imports, aiming to curb the flood of products:
    • 100% duty on electric vehicles (EVs)
    • 50% duty on solar cells
    • 25% duty on steel, aluminum, EV batteries, and certain minerals

India – China Trade Relation

• Statistics
  • China was the top supplier of goods to India in 2023-24, accounting for imports valued at $101 billion, while India exported goods worth $16.65 billion.
  • India’s imports from China grew at a much faster pace than from the rest of the world.
    • This dependence grew so much that despite many economic restrictions on Chinese businesses following the Galwan clash in June 2020, imports from China surpassed a record $100 billion in 2023-24.
• Impact
  • For India, the impact is already evident, with imports from China rising by nearly 60%—from $70 billion in FY19 to $101 billion in FY24, according to official data.
  • This surge could further strain India's manufacturing sector, trade balance and ultimately hurt India’s ambition to become global power.
  • Steel Industry Struggles with Chinese Influx
    • Despite slowing exports, Chinese steel imports have surged globally, including in India. Key statistics include:
      • India's iron and steel exports dropped nearly 19% year-on-year in August 2024 and 29.4% during April-August 2024-25.
      • Finished steel imports from China to India hit a seven-year high in the first five months of FY24-25.
      • India’s overall finished steel imports reached a six-year high of 3.7 million metric tons between April and August 2024.
    • The surge in Chinese steel is eroding profits and threatening the stability of steel industries globally, particularly in Europe and India.
• China’s dominance in electronics
• India's mobile phone exports have surged over the past two years, driven by investments from global tech companies like Apple, which has expanded manufacturing in the country.
• However, India’s reliance on Chinese imports for electronic components remains largely unchanged.
• In FY24, India imported:
  • Over $12 billion worth of electronic components from China,
  • $6 billion from Hong Kong, together accounting for more than half of India’s total electronic component imports.
• Despite growth in electronics manufacturing, India's dependence on China persists.
• Electronic components import, valued at $34.4 billion, were the fifth-largest commodity imported, following crude oil, gold, petroleum products, and coal, according to Ministry of Commerce data.
• • Strategy employed by India
    • India is utilising both options:
      • imposing anti-dumping and anti-subsidy duties, and;
      • implementing quality control orders (QCO) to check imports of cheap items from China.
    • New Delhi is also considering collaborating with other Western countries to meet the challenge of Chinese hi-tech products capturing a lion’s share of the global market.
• Counter response by China - Blocking India’s access to solar equipment
  • The Economic Survey 2023-24 warned that in response to India’s anti-dumping probe against Chinese entities, China has been quietly blocking India’s access to solar equipment.
    • India aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
    • However, 80% of India's solar cells and modules still come from China, which dominates the global solar supply chain.

Context

• The debate over Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) into India oscillates between the economic benefits and potential security risks.
• This discourse is critical, as it not only addresses the immediate concerns of economic competition and sovereignty but also prompts the question of whether India has an adequate legislative framework to manage FDI and international trade in the context of national security.
• Despite widespread discussion, the answer remains that India lacks a comprehensive legal structure to address these concerns effectively.

India’s Existing FDI Regulation: Press Note 3 (PN3)

• India’s approach to regulating FDI underwent a significant shift in April 2020, when the government introduced Press Note 3 (PN3) in response to economic vulnerabilities worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• PN3 is enforced through the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) — a law that provides the architecture for the orderly development and maintenance of the foreign exchange market in India.
• PN3 represents a crucial regulatory measure designed to curb opportunistic takeovers of Indian companies by foreign investors, particularly from neighbouring countries.
• While the pandemic weakened several sectors of the Indian economy, there was growing concern that foreign investors, especially from China, might exploit the situation by acquiring distressed Indian companies.
• PN3 was seen as a protective response to these concerns, but its scope and impact are much broader, with profound implications for India's FDI policy.

Key Features of PN3: Geographical Focus and Scope

• Geographical Focus
  • While many countries share land borders with India, the primary target of this regulation was China, given the growing economic and geopolitical tensions between the two nations.
  • China had been a significant investor in various sectors of the Indian economy, including technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
  • PN3 sought to limit this influence by increasing the scrutiny of Chinese investments.
• Scope of the Regulation
  • PN3 applies to both new investments and changes in ownership of existing investments.
  • This means that even if a company was already operating in India with foreign investment, any future changes in shareholding or ownership would require government approval if the investment originated from a bordering country.
  • This aspect of the regulation was designed to prevent indirect acquisitions or changes in control of Indian companies.

Strategic Importance of PN3 in India’s FDI Policy

• Geopolitical Context
  • The introduction of PN3 should be understood in the context of India’s broader geopolitical strategy.
  • Relations between India and China have been fraught, particularly considering border disputes, trade imbalances, and strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • By tightening control over Chinese investments, India is asserting its economic sovereignty and reducing the risk of foreign entities exerting undue influence on its domestic industries.
• Economic Protectionism vs. National Security
  • PN3 reflects a growing trend of economic protectionism driven by national security concerns.
  • While traditionally, FDI has been seen as a means of fostering economic growth and development, PN3 represents a shift towards a more cautious and defensive stance, where security considerations take precedence over economic liberalisation.
  • This shift aligns India with other major economies, such as the US, Canada, and Australia, which have also introduced measures to screen FDI based on national security concerns.

Limitations and Criticisms of PN3

• Absence of Direct National Security Provisions
  • One of the major limitations of PN3 is its failure to explicitly mention national security as a basis for restricting FDI.
  • Although national security concerns are clearly the driving force behind the regulation, the lack of explicit language leaves India’s FDI regime vulnerable to legal challenges.
  • In the absence of a well-defined national security law, the reliance on FEMA to screen FDI for security risks may not be legally sufficient in international arbitration or dispute resolution settings.
• Impact on Business and Economic Relations
  • The requirement for prior government approval can slow down investment processes and may act as a deterrent for foreign investors.
  • By creating additional layers of bureaucracy, PN3 potentially hampers the ease of doing business, particularly for companies that may not pose any security risks but are still subject to the same scrutiny as those from countries with a contentious relationship with India, like China.
  • For instance, investments from friendly neighbouring countries, such as Bhutan or Nepal, are subjected to the same regulations, even though they do not pose significant security concerns.
• Targeted at China but Broader in Scope
  • While PN3 was largely seen as a response to Chinese investments, the regulation applies to all land-bordering countries, many of which have friendly relations with India.
  • This broad-brush approach has raised concerns that it may unnecessarily restrict beneficial investments from countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
  • This general application could hinder regional cooperation and economic integration, especially when such investments do not raise security alarms.
• Indirect Effects on Multinational Corporations (MNCs)
  • PN3 could have an impact on MNCs with Chinese ownership or investments, even if these companies are headquartered in countries outside the region.
  • For example, if a U.S. or European company with significant Chinese shareholding wants to invest in India, it may be subject to the same scrutiny as a direct Chinese investor.
  • This could complicate the investment landscape for global companies that have complex ownership structures, creating uncertainty and additional compliance burdens.

The Need for a Coherent Approach to FDI and National Security

• A Legal Disconnect
  • The disparity between India’s domestic legal framework and its international treaty obligations further underscores the need for a more coherent approach to FDI and national security.
  • India’s past and current international investment treaties, such as the 2015 Model Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), include specific provisions for managing issues related to foreign exchange and national security.
  • For example, Article 6 of the BIT deals with exchange control issues, while Article 33 allows the state to take measures to protect national security, even if these actions violate the treaty’s substantive provisions.
• The Broader Legal Vacuum in India’s National Security Legislation
  • India’s legal gap extends beyond FDI to encompass international trade as well.
  • A notable example is India’s response to the Pulwama terror attack in February 2019, which led to the imposition of 200 percent customs duties on Pakistani imports.
  • The measure was justified on the grounds of national security, yet India invoked Section 8A (1) of the Customs Tariff Act — a provision designed for economic emergencies, not for security threats.
  • This reflects a broader pattern in which India repurposes existing economic laws to address national security concerns, rather than developing dedicated legislation for such scenarios.

Way Forward: Need for Dedicated National Security Legislation

• The ongoing debate about the security risks posed by Chinese FDI presents an opportunity to launch a broader national discussion on the need for a comprehensive legal framework that aligns with global best practices.
• Countries like Canada and Australia have demonstrated the importance of having dedicated laws to manage the national security risks associated with FDI and international trade.
• India should follow suit by developing legislation specifically designed to address these concerns.

Conclusion

• While India has taken steps to manage foreign investment through regulations like PN3, the absence of a comprehensive national security framework remains a critical gap.
• As India continues to attract FDI and engage in global trade, it is imperative that the country develops a clear legal mechanism to safeguard its national security.
• By learning from the practices of other nations and aligning its domestic laws with its international treaty obligations, India can better protect its sovereignty and economic interests in the face of emerging global challenges.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Introduction (About Deeptech, Characteristics, Challenges, etc.)
• National Deeptech Startup Policy (Objectives, Features)
• News Summary

Introduction:

• Deeptech, or deep technology, refers to cutting-edge innovations rooted in scientific and engineering breakthroughs.
• Unlike traditional tech companies that often focus on software or app development, deeptech ventures delve into complex technologies that have the potential to disrupt industries and address significant global challenges.
• These technologies include artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, quantum computing, biotechnology, blockchain, advanced materials, and more.

Key Characteristics of Deeptech:

• Scientific and Engineering Foundations: Deeptech is built on scientific research, engineering advancements, and sophisticated algorithms. It often involves long-term research and development (R&D) and requires a deep understanding of the underlying science.
• High Entry Barriers: Deeptech ventures typically have high entry barriers due to the need for specialized knowledge, substantial capital investment, and complex development processes.
• Significant Impact Potential: Deeptech solutions aim to solve critical problems in various sectors such as healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and agriculture. They have the potential to create substantial economic value and drive societal change.
• Extended Development Timelines: Unlike typical tech startups that can scale rapidly, deeptech companies often face extended timelines due to the need for rigorous testing, prototyping, and validation before reaching the market.

Present Challenges Facing Deeptech:

• High R&D Costs: The development of deeptech solutions requires significant investment in research, infrastructure, and talent, making it difficult for startups to secure funding.
• Commercialization Barriers: Converting deeptech innovations into market-ready products involves overcoming technical, regulatory, and market acceptance hurdles.
• Talent Shortage: There is a growing need for specialized talent in fields such as quantum computing, AI, and biotechnology, but the supply of skilled professionals is limited.
• Long Time-to-Market: The extended timelines for development and regulatory approval can deter investors looking for quicker returns.

Future of Deeptech:

• The future of deeptech is promising, with increasing investment and support from governments, academia, and private sectors.
• As deeptech continues to evolve, it will play a pivotal role in shaping industries and enhancing human life.
• Governments and private investors are recognizing the importance of supporting deeptech ventures through funding, incubators, and policy frameworks.

National Deeptech Startup Policy:

• India's National Deeptech Startup Policy is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering the growth of deep technology startups in the country.
• Deeptech startups, which are rooted in advanced scientific and engineering innovations, play a critical role in driving India’s technological leadership and addressing complex challenges in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, energy, and manufacturing.

Objectives of the Policy:

• Promoting Innovation: Encourage the development of cutting-edge technologies through R&D support, grants, and innovation hubs.
• Facilitating Access to Capital: Provide financial assistance and incentives, including venture capital, government grants, and tax benefits to startups in the deeptech domain.
• Building Infrastructure: Establish dedicated incubators, accelerators, and test beds for deeptech innovations to bridge the gap between research and commercialization.
• Developing Skilled Talent: Strengthen educational programs and skill development initiatives to create a robust talent pool in advanced technological fields.
• Streamlining Regulations: Simplify regulatory frameworks to enable faster approvals and reduce barriers for deeptech startups, including intellectual property rights (IPR) protection and export controls.

Key Features of the Policy:

• Funding Support: Creation of funds like the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme and deeptech-specific funds to provide initial and growth-stage funding to startups.
• Collaboration with Academia and Industry: Promote partnerships between academic institutions, research labs, and industry to accelerate innovation and technology transfer.
• Incentives for R&D: Offer incentives such as reduced taxes, grants, and subsidies to encourage R&D activities in deeptech fields.
• Ease of Doing Business: Simplify compliance procedures and provide a single-window clearance system for deeptech startups.

DRDO to fund first-of-its-kind deep tech research for military use:

• DRDO is set to launch a pioneering initiative to advance research in emerging military technologies, backed by a ₹1 lakh crore corpus announced in the interim Budget.
• The initiative aims to indigenize defence products and promote deep tech innovations in areas such as quantum computing, blockchain, and artificial intelligence.
• The DRDO has identified five high-value projects, each with a funding cap of ₹50 crore, to reduce reliance on imports and foster self-reliance in defence technology.
• Inspired by the US DARPA model, the programme seeks to push futuristic and disruptive technologies that could revolutionize defence systems.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the funding, which will be managed through the DRDO’s Technology Development Fund (TDF).
• The fund focuses on engaging private industry, MSMEs, and startups in the development of military hardware and software.

Why in News?

On the sidelines of the Quad leaders’ summit, the Indian PM held a meeting with United States President Joe Biden.

As this meeting between the two world leaders may have been the last before Biden leaves the White House in January 2025, it is necessary to look into how the Biden presidency has shaped US-Indian relations.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• How did Biden Mould US-Indian Relations Prior to Taking Office as US President?
• Legacy of Donald Trump’s Presidency for India - US Ties
• India - US Ties During the Biden’s Presidency
• Technology Cooperation Between India - US
• What are the Issues in the India - US Ties?

How did Biden Mould US-Indian Relations Prior to Taking Office as US President?

• Before becoming Vice President to President Barack Obama:
  • In 2006, Biden stated that by 2020, the United States and India will be the two closest nations in the world.
  • In 2008, he (then Senator) worked with both Democrats and Republicans to get the landmark India-US nuclear deal approved in the US Congress.
• As a VP to President Barack Obama:
  • In 2013, he visited India and met the then Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh) and Vice President (Hamid Ansari).
  • In 2020, as the Democratic Presidential nominee, Biden said that he would stand with India in confronting various threats along its borders.

Legacy of Donald Trump’s Presidency for India - US Ties:

• President Biden inherited a strong India-US relationship from his predecessor Donald Trump.
• Aligning Washington and New Delhi’s positions, Trump framed China as a strategic rival and adversary to the US for the first time. Biden carried Trump’s legacy forward in this regard.
• Trump revived the Quad grouping (India, the US, Australia, and Japan) in 2017.
  • In 2021, Biden elevated the Quad to the leaders’ level - the highest in international diplomacy, and hosted the first Quad leaders’ summit.

India - US Ties During the Biden’s Presidency:

• Interaction between top leaders:
  • Since the first Quad leaders’ summit in 2021, Biden and the Indian PM have met six times at the leaders’ level, including four times in person.
  • On the bilateral front, the two have interacted at least 10 times, including twice virtually.
• Strategic alignment vis-à-vis China: In the post-pandemic world, both countries wanted to de-risk themselves from future China-related disruptions, and become a part of a resilient global supply chain.
• Advantage to India:
  • Since the end of World War II, no major country has prospered without technological assistance from Washington.
  • The USA provided considerable assistance in the rise of China as well.
  • India also wished to be part of the US-led tech ecosystem.

Technology Cooperation Between India - US:

• Initiative for Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET):
  • In 2023, the two National Security Advisers launched the iCET in Washington to -
    • Facilitate strategic technology collaborations in critical and emerging technologies, and
    • Enable co-development and co-production in the tech sphere.
  • It aims to connect the two countries’ respective innovation ecosystems, especially in AI, quantum, telecom, space, biotech, semiconductors, and emerging defence technologies.
  • After multiple NSA-level meetings (the most recent one in June 2024) the outcomes of iCET are now visible.
• The outcomes of iCET:
  • Setting up a semiconductor fabrication plant in India:
    • The Indian PM’s recent visit saw the signing of an agreement for setting up a semiconductor fabrication plant in India.
    • This will be enabled by support from the India Semiconductor Mission as well as a strategic technology partnership between Bharat Semi, 3rdiTech, and the US Space Force.
    • This plant would make chips for use in national security, next generation telecommunications and green energy applications.
  • Both are working on a broad range of technology partnerships:
    • From joint research conducted by NASA and ISRO on the International Space Station, to a pact for critical minerals supply chains and emerging digital technologies in Asia and Africa.
    • There has also been progress regarding a deal for 31 remotely piloted aircraft which India would acquire from the US.
• Significance of the iCET:
  • The fab titled Shakti (or power) would not only be the first technology partnership between Indian businesses and the US Space Force, but also a first in the Quad.
  • This marks a “glass-ceiling broken” in tech diplomacy, by going into true chip fabrication. 

What are the Issues in the India-US Ties?

• The alleged assassination plot against US-based pro-Khalistan separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has been a thorny issue. Days before the Indian PM’s visit to the US,
  • A US court issued summons to NSA Ajit Doval, after Pannun filed a civil suit seeking damages for the alleged assassination plot.
  • A group of pro-Khalistan separatists visited the White House on the eve of the Indian PM’s US visit.
• India must resolve this matter in order to allay Washington's concerns regarding New Delhi's democratic credentials.
• However, the two countries’ strategic alignment vis-à-vis China means that such challenges are only minor wrinkles to be ironed out.

Why in news?

The Supreme Court rejected the Gujarat government's plea to review its January 8 verdict, which had canceled the remission granted to 11 men convicted of raping Bilkis Bano and killing seven of her family members during the 2002 Gujarat riots.

The Gujarat government contested certain "adverse" observations made by the court in the January verdict, arguing that such remarks should not have been made against the state. However, the court found no merit in the review plea and dismissed it.

What’s in today’s article?

• Remission
• Bilkis Bano case
• Key highlights of the January 8 judgement by SC
• Supreme Court dismisses Gujarat review plea

What is Remission?

• About
  • Remission is the complete ending of a sentence at a reduced point.
  • Remission is distinct from both furlough and parole in that it is a reduction in sentence as opposed to a break from prison life.
• Constitutional Provisions
  • Both the President and the Governor have been vested with sovereign power of pardon by the Constitution.
  • Under Article 72, the President can grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person.
  • Under Article 161, a Governor can grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment, or suspend, remit or commute the sentence.
• Statutory power of remission
  • The Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) also provided for remission of prison sentences. This is because prisons is a State Subject.
    • Under Section 432 of CrPC, the ‘appropriate government’ may suspend or remit a sentence, in whole or in part, with or without conditions.
    • Under Section 433 of CrPC, any sentence may be commuted to a lesser one by the appropriate government.
    • This power is available to State governments so that they may order the release of prisoners before they complete their prison terms.
  • The CrPC is now replaced by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
    • CHAPTER XXXIV of the BNSS 2023 deals with the powers of remission or commutation in certain cases under the following sections:
    • Section 473 - Power to suspend or remit sentences.
      • The Central Government has the power to do so in cases where the sentence is for an offense against a law that comes under the executive power of the Union.
      • In other cases, the Government of the State where the offender is sentenced has the power to do so.
    • Section 474 - Power to commute sentences. The appropriate Government can commute any punishment to any other punishment without the consent of the offender.
    • Section 475 - Restriction on powers of remission or commutation in certain cases.
    • Section 477 -  State Government acting after concurrence with the Central Government in certain cases.
  • Guidelines to be followed while granting Remission
    • In ‘Laxman Naskar v. Union of India’ (2000) case, the Supreme Court laid down five grounds on which remission is considered:
      • Whether the offence is an individual act of crime that does not affect the society;
      • Whether there is a chance of the crime being repeated in future;
      • Whether the convict has lost the potentiality to commit crime;
      • Whether any purpose is being served in keeping the convict in prison; and
      • Socio-economic conditions of the convict’s family.
    • Also, convicts serving life sentences are entitled to seek remission after serving a minimum of 14 years in prison.

What is Bilkis Bano Case?

• About
  • In the aftermath of the Godhra riots in Gujarat in 2002, Bikinis Bano and her family were attacked by a group of people.
  • Bilkis was brutally gangraped and seven of her family members were murdered.
  • Her case was taken up by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and Supreme Court, which ordered an investigation by the CBI.
  • Due to persistent death threats, the trial was moved out of Gujarat to Mumbai where charges were filed against these people.
  • In January 2008, a special CBI court in Mumbai had sentenced the 11 accused to life imprisonment.
• Release of these convicts
  • In 2022, one of the convicts named Radheshyam Shah, after completing 15 years and four months of his life term, moved to the SC for early release.
  • In May 2022, the SC passed this case to the Gujarat government.
    • It asked the Gujarat government to consider Shah’s application for premature release, as per the state’s 1992 remission policy.
  • On August 15, 2022, the Gujarat government released all 11 convicts in the gangrape case under its remission policy.
  • However, this decision sparked a major public backlash, and prompted petitions from opposition MPs.
• Review petition by Bilkis Bano
  • Bilkis Bano in 2022 filed an appeal in the Supreme Court to review the decision of the Gujarat government ordering release of the 11 gangrape convicts.
• January 8 judgement of Supreme Court
  • In response to the review petition filed by Bilkis Bano, the apex court, on January 8, overturned the Gujarat government's decision to release the 11 convicts.

Key highlights of the January 8 judgement by SC

• The Gujarat government was not the appropriate government to pass the remission order as the trial was held in Maharashtra.
  • The exemption order lacks competence. Criminals can be released only by the state where they are tried.
• The bench also held that the SC order of May 13, 2022 was obtained by fraud and suppression of facts.
• Gujarat government should have filed a plea seeking review of the 2022 order stating they are not the competent government.
• The Supreme Court came down heavily against its own judgment in May 2022.
  • In May 2022, the SC ruled that there cannot be a concurrent jurisdiction of two State governments on the issue of remission.
  • Premature release of a convict has to be considered in terms of the policy applicable in the State where the crime was committed
  • Hence, Gujrat government’s remission policy was applied for the release of these convicts.
• The rule of law must be preserved unmindful of the ripples of the consequences.

News Summary- Supreme Court dismisses Gujarat review plea

• About the news
  • The Supreme Court dismissed the Gujarat government's review plea challenging its January 8 judgment that canceled the remission granted to 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case.
  • The January judgment accused Gujarat of being complicit with one of the convicts, Radheshyam Shah, and held that the May 2022, order granting remission was obtained through fraud and suppression of facts.
  • The Supreme Court also criticized Gujarat for not filing a review against the 2022 order sooner, which could have avoided further litigation.
• Stand of Gujarat govt
  • In its review plea, Gujarat argued that it was only complying with the 2022 Supreme Court directive to decide the remission application under its 1992 Remission Policy, though it consistently maintained that Maharashtra was the appropriate authority to decide.
  • The state rejected the court's accusation of "usurpation of power" and emphasized that it had no need to file a review petition as Bilkis Bano herself had done so, but her review was dismissed in December 2022.
  • The state further contended that it was not complicit in any fraud.

Why in news?

In recent years, maritime East Asia has become a hotspot for power politics, particularly in the East and South China Seas.

The East China Sea, bordered by China, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea, has seen repeated tensions over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands, which are under Japanese control but claimed by China.

Meanwhile, the South China Sea, located between China, Taiwan, and five Southeast Asian nations—Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines, and Indonesia—has emerged as a critical flashpoint.

China has aggressively asserted its territorial claims in this region, escalating disputes and heightening geopolitical tensions across the Indo-Pacific.

What’s in today’s article?

• Significance of these seas
• Posture taken by China in this region
• Response from regional countries

Significance of East China Sea (ECS) and South China sea (SCS)

• Significance for China
  • Geopolitical Control
    • Both seas are crucial for China’s defense and military positioning. Control over these waters allows China to project power in the region and safeguard its national security interests.
    • The SCS is part of China's "first island chain" defense strategy, forming a buffer against external threats.
  • Territorial Claims
    • China views the ECS and SCS as integral parts of its territorial sovereignty, with ongoing disputes over islands like the Diaoyu/Senkaku in the ECS and several islets and reefs in the SCS.
    • In its 2019 Defence White Paper, China declares that the South China Sea islands and Diaoyu Islands are integral parts of its territory.
  • Trade Routes
    • South China Sea is one of the world's busiest maritime trade corridors, with an estimated $3.4 trillion in annual trade passing through it.
    • Control over this region gives China potential leverage over international shipping routes.
  • Fisheries and Resources
    • Both the ECS and SCS are rich in fish stocks, a critical resource for China’s food security and economy.
    • The seas also provide livelihoods for millions in neighboring countries.
  • Energy Resources
    • The South China Sea is believed to hold significant reserves of oil and natural gas.
    • Securing these resources is vital for China's growing energy demands and for other nations relying on the region's resources.
• Significance for other countries
  • Key maritime route
    • The key maritime trade routes in East Asia pass through these two seas. Taiwan Strait is a critical maritime choke point.
  • Vital for digital economy
    • The region is home to undersea cables that are important for the global digital economy.
  • Vital for energy security
    • As per the U.S. Energy Information Administration, in 2023, 10 billion barrels of petroleum and petroleum products and 6.7 trillion cubic feet of liquefied natural gas passed through the South China Sea.
    • It is also home to vast reserves of untapped oil and natural gas.
  • Global Security
    • The East and South China Seas are flashpoints for potential conflict.
    • It is drawing global attention from powers like the U.S., which conducts Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) to challenge China’s maritime claims.
    • These tensions affect global trade, security alliances, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Posture taken by China in this region

• China aggressively pushing its territorial claims in both seas in two ways:
  • by building defence-related infrastructure such as ports, military installations, airstrips, and artificial islands and
  • by pushing back against the claims of regional countries. 
• East China Sea Tensions
  • In the East China Sea, China has aggressively contested Japan's control over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands, leading to multiple crises.
  • Notable incidents include the arrest of a Chinese fishing captain in 2010 and Japan's nationalization of the islands in 2012.
  • Both countries took maximalist positions, and China responded by banning rare earth mineral exports to Japan.
  • While tensions have slightly eased in recent years, 2023 witnessed the highest level of Chinese Coast Guard activity near the islands, signaling ongoing disputes.
  • China's assertive foreign policy has strained its relations with South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan.
• South China Sea Power Asymmetry
  • 
  • In the South China Sea, China's growing power has resulted in increased military presence and aggression towards claimant countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Brunei.
  • With the world's largest navy by numbers, China has conducted "grey zone" operations that involve harassment tactics like ramming vessels, using water cannons, and military-grade lasers, short of initiating full-scale conflict.
• Philippines-China Tensions
  • Tensions between China and the Philippines have intensified since 2022, especially around Second Thomas Shoal and Sabina Shoal.
  • China has repeatedly disrupted the Philippines' resupply missions. China's heavier and larger Coast Guard ships frequently ram smaller Philippine vessels, creating risks of miscalculation.
  • The growing frequency of these incidents, including clashes in mid-2024, reflects China's determination to assert its dominance.
• Strategic Alignment and Legal Rejection
  • In July 2024, China conducted joint naval exercises with Russia in the South China Sea, showcasing its geopolitical alliances.
  • Despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration rejecting China's territorial claims in the South China Sea, China continues to dismiss the legal decision, maintaining its aggressive posture in the region.

Regional Responses to China's Aggression in the East and South China Seas

• Strengthening Defence Capabilities
  • Countries in the Indo-Pacific have ramped up their military expenditures to counter China’s growing power.
  • Japan aims to double its defense budget by 2027, and the Philippines has acquired BrahMos anti-ship missiles from India as part of its defense buildup.
• Active Responses at Sea
  • Since 2022, the Philippines has pushed back against China’s activities, publicizing incidents and filming Chinese vessels to shape perceptions.
  • They have also involved international journalists in documenting Chinese behavior in the West Philippine Sea, turning public diplomacy into a strategic tool.
• Narrative Battle
  • Countries are engaging in a battle of narratives, using public diplomacy and media to highlight China’s aggressive actions and gain international support.
• Strengthening Alliances with the U.S.
  • Allies like the Philippines, Japan, and South Korea have strengthened their defense ties with the U.S.
  • Cooperation between the U.S. and the Philippines in the South China Sea has reached “historic levels,” with increased base access, training, and joint exercises.
  • A broader multilateral cooperation dubbed the ‘Squad’ involves the U.S., Australia, Japan, and the Philippines.
• Trilateral Cooperation
  • The U.S., Japan, and South Korea have deepened their trilateral defense relationship, with their Defense Ministers meeting for the first time in July 2024.
  • They oppose any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo in the Indo-Pacific and emphasize adherence to international law, including freedom of navigation.

Context

• India's employment landscape presents a complex mix of optimistic projections and alarming realities as various reports offer contrasting perspectives on job growth, reflecting underlying structural issues in the labour market.
• The challenge of employment generation is multifaceted, impacted by labour market rigidities, skill gaps, and the changing nature of technology.
• Amid conflicting trends in employment growth, it is important to explore the current employment trends, key challenges, and potential solutions for bridging the employment deficit in the country.

An Analysis of Conflicting Trends in Employment Growth

• KLEMS Data: A Promising Increase in Employment
  • India’s employment growth presents a paradox, with different sources offering widely divergent narratives.
  • On one hand, data from the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Capital, Labour, Energy, Materials, Services (KLEMS) reports a promising 6% increase in job growth for FY24, up significantly from 3.2% in FY23.
  • This suggests that job creation is gaining momentum as the Indian economy recovers from the pandemic's aftermath.
  • Such growth aligns with the broader narrative of India's robust economic recovery, driven by strong domestic demand, improved manufacturing output, and increased investment flows into various sectors.
• CMIE Data: A More Concerning Picture
  • This optimistic portrayal by RBI’s KLEMS is challenged by data from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), which paints a more concerning picture.
  • According to CMIE, the unemployment rate surged to 9.2% in June 2024 from 7% in May, indicating a sharp rise in the number of jobless individuals.
  • The annual unemployment rate for FY24 stood at 8%, far higher than what would be expected from an economy witnessing job growth as reported by the RBI.
  • This discrepancy highlights the complexities of India’s employment landscape, where aggregate economic growth does not necessarily translate into widespread job creation.

Rationale Behind the Discrepancies in Employment Data

• A significant part of the variation in these reports stems from differing methodologies and definitions of employment used by the RBI and CMIE.
• The KLEMS data focuses on formal sector employment, which may not account for the large informal economy that employs a significant portion of India’s workforce.
• The CMIE, on the other hand, captures a broader spectrum of employment, including the informal sector, where job insecurity and volatility are more pronounced.
• The distinction between formal and informal employment is critical in understanding these conflicting trends.
• While formal jobs may be increasing, the informal sector where many are employed in precarious conditions, continues to suffer from instability, leading to higher overall unemployment figures.

Key Challenges in Employment Generation

• Labour Market Rigidities and Skill Gaps
  • Labour market imperfections in India lead to persistent mismatches between job availability and the skills of job seekers.
  • These rigidities are compounded by institutional factors such as wage-setting mechanisms and the existence of significant skill gaps.
  • There are two types of skill gaps in the Indian labour market. First, many job seekers, despite possessing qualifications, lack the necessary skills due to inadequate training.
  • Second, some job seekers have not received any skill training at all.
  • Both types of gaps coexist, resulting in a workforce that is not equipped to meet industry needs.
• Aspirational Gap
  • Moreover, India faces an aspirational gap, where job seekers are unable to find employment that aligns with their career aspirations.
  • For instance, while there is growing demand for IT jobs, many young Indians find themselves in lower-paying manual labour positions, particularly in southern states.
  • These gaps in the labour market need to be bridged to absorb the growing number of new entrants into the workforce.
• Technological Changes and Employment Elasticity
  • Another critical factor is the declining employment elasticity due to technological advancements.
  • Historically, innovations in machinery and tools led to simultaneous increases in output and employment by substituting human labour with machines.
  • However, modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), are poised to disrupt this dynamic.
  • AI, often referred to as mechanical minds, could potentially replace jobs that require cognitive labour, just as mechanical muscles replaced physical labour in previous industrial revolutions.
  • While professionals adept at applying new technologies may thrive, there is a distinct possibility that middle management roles could be downsized, creating new vulnerabilities in the labour market.

Necessary Steps to Address the Employment Deficit: Policy Recommendations

• Promoting Labour-Intensive Industrialisation
  • To address the employment shortfall, India must prioritise sectors that are capable of absorbing large numbers of workers.
  • Sectors such as food processing, textiles, and apparel are highly labour-intensive and have strong inter-sectoral linkages with agriculture and other manufacturing industries.
  • These sectors can cater to the domestic market and play a pivotal role in job creation.
  • However, while these industries may support employment, they may struggle to compete internationally, necessitating additional support to improve their global competitiveness.
• Enhancing Competitiveness in Technology-Intensive Sectors
  • While promoting labour-intensive industries is essential, India must also invest in technology-driven sectors to remain competitive in the global market.
  • Technology-intensive sectors such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and motor vehicles have the potential to generate high-value jobs and expand India’s export capabilities.
  • These industries are characterised by higher rates of technology adoption and research and development, making them critical to India’s long-term economic growth.
  • To unlock the potential of these sectors, India must implement a differentiated incentive system that supports both employment generation and capital investments.
• Educational and Skilling Reforms: The Foundation for Future Jobs
  • A critical aspect of India’s employment strategy lies in addressing the gaps in its education and skilling systems.
  • The country’s education system currently falls short of industry requirements, leading many young Indians to pursue multiple degrees from lower-quality institutions.
  • This has exacerbated the employability crisis, with many highly educated youths facing unemployment.
  • Despite rising enrolment rates, the quality of education remains inadequate, creating a mismatch between the skills provided by educational institutions and the needs of the labour market.
  • Educational reforms must focus on improving the quality of education at all levels and aligning curricula with industry demands.
  • Vocational training programs and skill development initiatives must be expanded to equip graduates with the skills required in the modern economy.
  • Without these reforms, India will continue to face a shortage of employable talent, hindering the country’s ability to generate jobs.
• Need for Improved Coordination
  • The contrasting reports from different agencies raise questions about the quality and transparency of employment data in India.
  • This issue is not merely academic; accurate data is essential for policymakers to make informed decisions about labour market interventions.
  • The National Statistical Commission (NSC) needs to play a more proactive role in resolving these discrepancies by standardising definitions of employment and unemployment across agencies.

Conclusion

• The conflicting data on employment growth further complicates the situation, underscoring the need for improved coordination and transparency in labour market reporting.
• To tackle the employment deficit, India must pursue a balanced strategy that promotes both labour-intensive industrialisation and the growth of technology-driven sectors and substantial educational and skilling reforms are needed to prepare the workforce for the demands of the modern economy.
• By addressing these challenges, India can create a more inclusive and sustainable path to economic growth and employment generation.

Why in News?

Speaking at a think tank in New York, foreign minister S Jaishankar described India-China ties as "significantly disturbed".

This comes after his recent statement claiming that the two neighbours have resolved 75% of "disengagement problems" along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Evolution of the India - China Relations
• How India Responded to an Assertive China?
• Current State of India - China Relations
• Efforts to Break the Deadlock in the India - China Relations and Way Ahead

Evolution of the India - China Relations:

• During the course of the 1990s and until 2013:
  • Sharing the goal of avoiding another border war akin to that of 1962, India and China agreed to set aside their differences on the border and focus on their economic development.
  • Each involved the other on secondary issues such as terrorism or Afghanistan.
• National interests began to diverge after 2013:
  • Coinciding with lower economic growth prospects, President Xi Jinping pursued an assertive foreign-policy and security agenda by -
    • Focusing on promoting global technology champions and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),
    • Acquiring advanced dual-use technologies and securitising its economy at home.
  • This created insecurity for India.

How India Responded to an Assertive China?

• India has concurrently considered itself a rising global economic force able to leverage its strategic partnerships in Asia and beyond.
• Since the end of the coronavirus pandemic, India has gained confidence from its status as the world’s fastest growing major economy.
• India’s ambitions evolved from seeking to be the ‘plus-one’ of multinationals’ China-focused strategies to being a preferred, trusted middle-weight supplier in global supply chains.
• India’s ‘Make in India’ policy epitomises its ambitions to grow its services and industry, using foreign capital to eventually boost exports.

Current State of India - China Relations:

• India - China ties are troubled by -
  • An unsettled border, an unequal trade relationship, China’s strategic ties to Pakistan, and
  • A broadening political-strategic disagreement over each other’s perceived rightful place in Asia and beyond.
• The relationship has suffered from a lack of strategic trust since a June 2020 border clash (in the Galwan valley).
  • This unmined the letter and spirit of the border-management regime that had been patiently negotiated, designed and agreed to over a generation.
• The war in Ukraine has brought China closer to Russia, India’s historic defence partner.
• The decline in relations is evident by the Chinese President declining to attend the 2023 G-20 summit in New Delhi and the Indian PM’s lack of attendance at the 2024 SCO summit in Kazakhstan.

Efforts to Break the Deadlock in the India - China Relations and Way Ahead:

• Resolution of disengagement problems through strategic communication:
  • 
  • After a hiatus of over two years, their top national-security officials met in 2022, 2023 and July 2024.
  • As a result, the two neighbours have resolved 75% of "disengagement problems" in eastern Ladakh.
  • Friction points such as Galwan Valley, north and south banks of Pangong Tso and the Gogra-Hot Springs area have been resolved to some extent with the creation of buffer zones along the LAC.
  • However, legacy issues of Depsang Plains and Demchok (pre-dating the current ongoing military standoff) remains.
  • As a result, troops deployed at the Depsang Plains were blocked from accessing their patrol points in an area called the Y junction.
• Deployment of troops through intensified diplomatic and military talks:
  • The delegation for the 31st Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) discussed the issue of deployment of troops along the LAC in eastern Ladakh.
  • The 22nd round of military talks between India and China at the Corps Commanders’ level may set the time frame of the deployment of troops from either side based on the mutual agreement reached.
  • This might help the Indian troops regain access to some of the patrolling points along the LAC.
  • Irrespective of any deployment change, the border infrastructure development along the entire LAC will continue as per plans.
• Way Ahead:
  • As the India - China relationship is key to Asia's future and will influence not just the continent but the entire world, there is the avoid any further tensions which could distract them from their peaceful rise.
  • One possible route is to establish new confidence-building measures.

Why in news?

After a meeting with the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Assam Chief Minister initiated the process to implement 52 recommendations from the Justice Biplab Sarma Committee concerning Clause 6 of the Assam Accord.

This action follows the finalization of the committee's report in February 2020.

However, 15 key recommendations, which require Constitutional amendments, will not be implemented for now. The Chief Minister stated that these will be discussed with the Centre at an appropriate time.

What’s in today’s article?

• Clause 6 of the Assam Accord
• Biplab Sarma committee report
• Recommendations of the report to be implemented
• Recommendations that have been left out by the govt

Clause 6 of the Assam Accord

• Background: Assam Accord (1985)
  • The Assam Accord was a Memorandum of Settlement signed between the Rajiv Gandhi-led Union government and the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU).
  • This accord ended a six-year-long agitation against the entry of Bangladeshi migrants into Assam.
  • The agreement, signed in 1985, marked the conclusion of the Assam Movement.
• Clause 6 of the Assam Accord
  • Clause 6 of the Assam Accord promises to provide Constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards to protect, preserve, and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity, and heritage of the Assamese people.
  • These safeguards aim to address concerns regarding the state's demographic and cultural integrity amidst the influx of migrants.

Biplab Sarma Committee

• Formation of the committee
  • In July 2019, the Union Home Ministry formed a 14-member committee, chaired by retired Assam High Court Justice Biplab Kumar Sarma, to provide recommendations on implementing Clause 6 of the Assam Accord.
  • A key issue the committee addressed was defining "the Assamese people" eligible for the safeguards under Clause 6.
• Submission of the report
  • The committee submitted its final report in February 2020.
    • However, instead of being presented to the Union Home Ministry, it was received by then Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
  • In August 2020, four committee members publicly released the confidential report.
• Key Recommendations:
  • Definition of Assamese People: The committee suggested that "Assamese people" should include:
    • Indigenous Tribals
    • Other Indigenous Communities of Assam
    • Indian citizens residing in Assam on or before January 1, 1951, and their descendants
    • Indigenous Assamese People
  • Safeguards: Based on this definition, the committee recommended reservations for "Assamese people" in Parliament, the state Assembly, local bodies, and jobs.

Recommendations of the report to be implemented

• Classification of Recommendations
  • The committee’s 67 recommendations are divided into three categories:
    • 40 recommendations under the state government’s jurisdiction
    • 12 recommendations requiring Centre’s concurrence
    • 15 recommendations exclusively within the Centre’s domain
  • The 52 recommendations in the first two categories will be implemented by April 2025, with a roadmap to be submitted to AASU by October 25, 2024.
• Acceptance of 1951 Cut-off Date
  • The Assam govt has accepted the 1951 cut-off date for the specific recommendations of the Justice Biplab Sarma Committee report.
  • However, the definition of “Assamese people” is limited to the context of the report's recommendations.
• Land Safeguards
  • Special Revenue Circles: Designating areas where only Assamese people can own and transfer land.
  • Land Titles: A three-year program to grant land titles to Assamese people who have long occupied land without proper documentation.
  • Char Areas Survey: Surveying char areas (riverine regions) to treat newly formed chars as government land, prioritizing allocation to those affected by river erosion.
• Language Safeguards
  • Assamese as Official Language: Retaining Assamese as the official state language per the 1960 Assam Official Language Act, with provisions for local languages in certain regions.
  • Bilingual Government Documents: Issuing all state government acts, rules, and orders in both Assamese and English.
  • Autonomous Language Council: Establishing a council to preserve and promote indigenous languages of Assam.
  • Assamese in Schools: Making Assamese a compulsory subject in all English medium schools up to Class VIII or Class X.
• Cultural Heritage Preservation
  • Sattras (Neo-Vaishnavite Monasteries): Setting up an autonomous body to oversee the development of sattras and provide them financial assistance.
  • Cultural Complexes: Building multipurpose cultural complexes in every district to preserve the cultural heritage of all ethnic groups.
• Sixth Schedule Areas
  • The autonomous councils of Assam’s Sixth Schedule Areas, including the Bodoland Territorial Council, the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council, and the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, will decide whether to implement the 52 recommendations.
  • These councils have certain legislative and judicial autonomy under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Recommendations that have been left out by the govt

• Inner Line Permit
  • Proposal for implementing an ILP for entry into Assam, similar to existing regulations in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Mizoram.
• Reservations for Assamese People
  • Parliament and State Assembly: 80-100% reservation of seats for Assamese individuals in Parliament and state Assembly, as well as in local bodies.
  • Government Jobs: 80-100% reservation in Assam government jobs.
  • Private Sector Collaborations: 70-100% reservation for vacancies in partnerships between the Assam government and private companies.
  • Creation of an Upper House: Proposal for establishing a Legislative Council in Assam, exclusively reserved for Assamese people.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• About Project Cheetah (Objective, Features, etc.)
• Status of Project Cheetah (Progress, Positives, Negatives, Challenges, Suggestions, etc.)

About Project Cheetah:

• Project Cheetah, launched to reintroduce the African sub-species of cheetahs in India, completed two years on September 17.
• The project has two primary objectives:
  • To establish a stable, breeding population of cheetahs in central India and
  • To use cheetahs as an umbrella species to restore open ecosystems such as scrubs, savannahs, grasslands, and degraded forests.
• This was the world’s first inter-continental large wild carnivore translocation project.
  • The cheetah was declared extinct in India in 1952, making it the only large wild mammalian species to go extinct since India’s independence.
• Funding: Funded by Project Tiger and the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management & Planning Authority (CAMPA)
• While the project has seen marginal successes, significant challenges remain, raising questions about its long-term outlook.

Status of Cheetah Reintroduction:

• The project began with the translocation of African cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, in two batches of eight and twelve cheetahs.
• Initially, the cheetahs were kept in soft-release enclosures called bomas, where they adapted to the local environment and hunted live prey. Mating within this cohort led to the birth of 17 cubs.
• However, the survival rate has been a concern.
• Of the 20 translocated cheetahs, eight (40%) have died due to various reasons, including injuries during mating and infections caused by tick infestations under their radio collars.
• Of the 17 cubs born, five (29%) have also perished.
• Currently, 24 cheetahs (12 adults and 12 cubs) survive, with the next batch of 6-8 cheetahs expected to be translocated to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh.

Challenges in Releasing Cheetahs into the Wild:

• Despite initial successes in breeding and adapting to a new environment, the project faces significant hurdles in fully releasing the cheetahs into the wild.
• Although two cheetahs, Pawan and Veera, were released into the wild, Pawan’s recent death, ostensibly due to drowning, has raised concerns about their ability to establish habitats independently.
• Following Pawan’s death, all surviving cheetahs have been confined to enclosures, sparking criticism from conservation scientists about the delay in releasing them into the wild and a lack of transparency.
• Wildlife biologists have pointed out that Namibia’s policy advises against keeping large wild carnivores in captivity for more than three months.
• If not released within this timeframe, the animals should either be euthanized or held in permanent captivity.
• The prolonged enclosure of cheetahs, contrary to the Cheetah Action Plan, which stipulated a 4–5-week quarantine followed by a brief acclimatization period, has drawn scrutiny.

Prey Scarcity:

• One of the major challenges for Project Cheetah is the inadequate prey base.
• The latest report indicates that the density of chital, the primary prey for both cheetahs and leopards, has declined from 23.43 animals per square kilometer in 2021 to 17.5 in 2024, resulting in a significant prey deficit.
• The current population of approximately 6,700 chital is insufficient to sustain the 91 leopards and 12 adult cheetahs in Kuno National Park, which would require around 23,600 prey animals annually for leopards and 3,120 for cheetahs.
• This prey shortage necessitates immediate intervention, including prey augmentation at Kuno and Gandhi Sagar, the next intended site for cheetah translocation.
• Experts argue that the rapid decline in prey density reflects poor project management, especially given that Kuno was chosen specifically for its rich prey base.

Way Forward / Suggestions:

• Free-ranging cheetahs have often ventured far beyond the boundaries of Kuno, crossing state lines and even entering human habitats.
• Analysis of their movements using radio collars shows significant travel, with Veera moving an average of 5.82 km per day and often entering territorial forests outside the national park.
• These insights underscore the need for a comprehensive interstate landscape conservation plan.
• The future of Project Cheetah hinges on the conservation of the interstate Kuno-Gandhi Sagar landscape, which spans protected areas, territorial forests, and several districts in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
• Achieving a stable population of 60-70 cheetahs in this region will require significant efforts in prey management, establishing interstate coordination mechanisms, and ensuring the protection of open ecosystems.

Conclusion:

• Project Cheetah has made some progress in reintroducing cheetahs to India, but it faces numerous challenges, including prey scarcity, delayed releases, and the need for large-scale landscape conservation.
• Moving forward, effective management, transparency, and enhanced conservation efforts will be crucial in ensuring the long-term success of the project and the sustainable revival of cheetah populations in India.

Why in news?

India has formally joined the Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN), a US-led initiative focused on enhancing cooperation among members to secure supply chains for critical minerals. The announcement, made by the US State Department on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, involves a pact signed by 14 countries and the European Union.

The MSFN is an extension of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), launched by the US in 2022. India had already joined the MSP in June 2023.

What’s in today’s article?

• China's strategy of restricting access to critical minerals
• Minerals Security Partnership (MSP)
• Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN)

China's strategy of restricting access to critical minerals

• China blocking the access to critical minerals
  • On August 15, 2023, China announced restrictions on antimony exports, a critical mineral for military and defense equipment, citing "national security."
  • The move, effective from September 15, was part of a broader pattern of counteractions in response to global efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese minerals.
• China is using its dominant position
  • China dominates the global supply chains for critical minerals, controlling 60% of rare earth and critical minerals production and 80% of their processing, making other nations, such as the U.S., EU, India, and Japan, strategically vulnerable.
• Past instances where China weaponized its dominant position
  • China has previously weaponized its mineral dominance, as seen in 2010 when it halted rare earth exports to Japan after a maritime dispute.
  • In 2023, China imposed further export restrictions on minerals like gallium, germanium, and graphite, in retaliation against U.S. export controls on advanced technology.
  • These actions signal China's willingness to leverage its control over critical minerals to counter U.S.-led efforts to diversify supply chains and reduce dependency on Chinese resources.
  • China's actions aim to undermine Western efforts to decouple from its supply chains and hinder development in areas like submarines and fighter jets, which require large amounts of rare earth elements.
  • This shift marks a departure from cooperation to coercion in China's foreign relations, signaling that mineral export controls will intensify as tensions with the West grow.

MSP

• About
  • In August 2022, US and 10 other nations agreed for this alliance known as MSP.
  • MSP is an international alliance that aims to ensure a stable supply of critical minerals for a clean energy transition.
  • It focuses on minerals and metals that are essential for clean energy technologies, such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, graphite, rare earth elements, and copper. 
• Goals
  • Sustainable supply chains: The MSP works to create diverse, sustainable, and responsible supply chains for critical minerals.
  • Economic development: The MSP aims to ensure that the production, processing, and recycling of critical minerals supports economic development.
  • Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards: The MSP's members commit to high ESG standards.
  • Shared prosperity: The MSP's members work to promote shared prosperity.
• Members 
  • Australia, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Norway, Republic of Korea, Sweden, United Kingdom, United States, and European Union.

Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN)

• Background: need for MSFN
  • The creation of the MSFN reflects a growing need to reduce dependence on countries like China for critical resources, particularly rare earth minerals.
  • Signatory nations emphasized that meeting the global demand for these minerals to support the clean energy transition requires collaboration between the public and private sectors.
• About
  • MSFN is a new initiative that originates from the MSP, a framework established by the US in 2022.
  • The network aims to bring together institutions from the Indo-Pacific region and Europe, promoting cooperation, information exchange, and co-financing. 
  • Under this, development finance institutions (DFIs) and export credit agencies (ECAs) from member nations will work together to enhance production capacity and resilience in mineral supply chains.
• Countries that are part of this initiative
  • The partnership includes 14 countries and the European Commission.
  • These are the USA, Australia, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the EU.
• India’s participation
  • India’s participation in this initiative is aimed at diversifying and securing its supply of critical minerals from nations like Argentina, Chile, Australia, and select African countries.
    • Kazakhstan, in Central Asia, is also being explored as a potential source for India’s mineral requirements.
  • China dominates rare earth production, controlling about 70% of global output, while India seeks to establish itself in the lithium value chain.
    • New Delhi is heavily dependent on the imports of critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt and copper, which resulted in an import cost of around ₹34,000 crore in FY23.
    • It is estimated that India’s hunger for minerals will only grow, and so will the import cost, further increasing India’s vulnerability. 
  • This partnership with the US-led network marks a critical step forward for India in its quest to reduce reliance on China for these minerals and build a robust, self-sustaining supply chain for its green energy initiatives.