UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 8th October 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

Indian Wild Ass

Source: Deccan Herald 

Why in news?

The population of wild asses in Gujarat has been estimated at 7,672, as per the 10th Wild Ass Population Estimation (WAPE) conducted by the Gujarat government earlier this year.

About

• Indian Wild Ass is a sub-species of the Asian Wild Ass (Equus hemionus).
• Locally known as "khur," it thrives in the extreme conditions of Gujarat's Wild Ass Sanctuary.
• This species primarily feeds on grass that grows on the islands within the desert.

Appearance

• Characterized by distinct white markings on the front part of the rump and the back part of the shoulder.
• A stripe runs down its back, bordered by white, enhancing its unique appearance.

Distribution

• Historically, the khur was widespread across the arid regions of northwestern India and Pakistan, extending into central Asia.
• Currently, its habitat is restricted to the Little Rann of Kutch in Gujarat.

Habitat

• Primarily found in desert and grassland ecosystems, which provide the necessary conditions for its survival.

Conservation Status

• IUCN: Near Threatened.
• CITES: Appendix II.
• Protected under the Wildlife Protection Act (1972): Schedule-I.

Ecological Significance

• Plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, which promotes growth and diversity of vegetation in its habitat.
• Helps create habitats for other species by clearing pathways through its grazing, facilitating a balanced ecosystem.

Threats

• Increased human activities, such as salt farming and agriculture, significantly threaten the fragile ecosystem.
• Extensive cattle grazing disrupts the natural balance of the habitat.
• Irrigation canals that extend water to the southern edges of the Little Rann can increase soil salinity, further endangering wildlife.

GS3/Environment

World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Recently, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) has suspended the membership of the Delhi Zoo due to concerns regarding the care of its only African elephant, named Shankar.

About World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)

• WAZA serves as the global umbrella organization for the zoo and aquarium community.
• Founded in 1935, it stands as the sole entity representing zoos and aquariums at an international level.
• The mission of WAZA includes guiding, encouraging, and supporting global zoos, aquariums, and similar organizations in their efforts toward animal care, welfare, environmental education, and worldwide conservation.
• Membership includes major national and regional associations of zoos and aquariums, along with affiliate organizations such as zoo veterinarians and educators from around the globe.

Activities of WAZA

• Promoting collaboration among zoological institutions and aquariums concerning the conservation, management, and breeding of animals kept in captivity.
• Encouraging the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry practices.
• Fostering and coordinating cooperation among national and regional associations and their members.
• Assisting in representing zoological gardens and aquariums in various international bodies and assemblies.

Conservation Efforts

• WAZA has established partnerships with prominent international conservation organizations.
• These partnerships aim to address global challenges such as:
  • Combatting illegal wildlife trafficking.
  • Restoring coral reefs.
  • Addressing marine litter issues.
  • Promoting sustainable palm oil practices.
  • Combating climate change.

GS2/Governance

Vivo China siphoned off Rs 70,000 crore under garb of imports – ED

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted a chargesheet against Vivo China, alleging that the company illicitly transferred Rs 70,000 crore from In

Background

A concerning scenario regarding Chinese Commercial Entities (CCE) has unfolded following various actions by Indian authorities since 2020. The investigation initiated after the June 15, 2020, conflict in Ladakh's Galwan Valley. The Indian authorities have taken measures such as dismantling espionage networks, conducting tax audits on major Chinese telecom firms, banning several mobile applications, and scrutinizing incoming investments into India. These actions have unveiled a network of companies and individuals engaged in espionage, profiling high-value targets, significant tax fraud, and the unauthorized extraction of large volumes of data.

Findings of investigating agencies

• The investigation revealed that Chinese commercial entities in India operate with five main objectives:
  • Shape public opinion
  • Establish economic dominance
  • Data acquisition
  • Espionage activities
  • Targeting scientists to undermine innovation and intellectual property rights (IPRs)
• Counterintelligence efforts are often led by top executives of Chinese firms operating in India.
• Small shell companies were identified as financial pathways to support espionage operations and agents residing in India.

Modus operandi of these entities

• Numerous small companies run by Chinese nationals employed nominal Indian directors and managers to appear legitimate.
• Many of these companies lacked physical presence at their registered locations, yet their bank accounts remained active and were managed from overseas.
• They utilized a pricing strategy that offered products at or below production costs, allowing them to capture significant portions of India's telecom and hardware markets.
• Investigations indicated that some senior staff members of these companies are documented affiliates of the Chinese Communist Party, granting Beijing substantial influence over their operations in India.
• Agencies also uncovered a continuous flow of data to Chinese servers through the remote access of devices and networks provided by these companies in India.
• Additionally, a data connection via Chinese-manufactured mobile phones was established during the investigations.
• The data acquired has enabled Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) systems to create detailed profiles, including biometric information of millions of Indian citizens.

Threat for India’s Internal Security

• Access to personal data of Indians:
  • Chinese entities have been compiling data using various techniques to secure a strategic advantage over India’s economic and security frameworks.
• Influencing public opinion:
  • Covert agents posing as officials from these companies are attempting to financially influence and sway public sentiment in India, potentially inciting internal unrest.
  • Such entities have also targeted Tibetan monks in India for influence.
  • For instance, Chinese national Luo Sang, arrested for money laundering in August 2020, was reportedly sending money to Tibetan monks, which raised suspicions about intelligence gathering regarding the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile.
  • One example includes operations under the alias Charlie Peng, which allegedly laundered over Rs 1,000 crore, some of which was purportedly used for intelligence operations in India.
  • A recent investigation discovered that a leading telecom executive was found with sensitive documents related to national security.
  • Extensive profiling of influential business figures was also uncovered.

Steps Taken By The Government

• Ongoing investigations:
  • Chinese commercial entities have been under continuous scrutiny by intelligence agencies since 2020.
  • Numerous raids have been executed by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
• Clampdown on Chinese investment:
  • In 2020, the Indian government mandated that foreign investments from nations sharing a land border with India must receive prior approval, thereby restricting investments from China.
• Ban on Chinese apps:
  • The Indian government has prohibited over 250 Chinese applications, including PUBG Mobile, TikTok, Shein, and AliExpress.
• Additional measures:
  • The Intelligence Bureau has established a new division called the China Coordination Centre to collaborate with financial enforcement agencies in investigating Chinese firms.
  • A Director General of Police conference held in January 2023 addressed the influence of Chinese commercial entities.

About the news

The ED has filed a chargesheet against Vivo China, alleging that the company siphoned off Rs 70,000 crore from India under the pretense of import payments.

Allegations made by ED

• The ED alleges that Vivo India transferred Rs 70,837 crore abroad since 2014, with substantial amounts sent to offshore entities controlled by Vivo China.
• These entities, located in Hong Kong, Samoa, and the British Virgin Islands, were reportedly established as trading firms to obscure their association with Vivo China.
• The ED also claims that Vivo China attempted to disguise its connection with Vivo India by creating a corporate structure that distanced them on paper while maintaining control over the distribution network.
• Special Purpose Vehicles, such as Multi Accord Ltd in Hong Kong, were reportedly created to maintain control over Vivo India.
• The chargesheet also accuses Vivo India and its state distributors of misrepresenting their ownership to the Indian government.
• Chinese nationals allegedly utilized Indian companies like Labquest Engineering Pvt Ltd and Lava International Ltd to engage in unauthorized business operations and gain entry into India without raising suspicions.

GS3/Economy

Farmers to receive aid under Rythu Bharosa

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Following the conclusion of the loan waiver initiative, the government of Telangana is set to extend Rythu Bharosa assistance to further aid farmers in the state.

About the Rythu Bharosa Scheme:

• Scheme Name: Rythu Bharosa Scheme (Farmer’s Investment Support Scheme – FISS)
• Launch Year: Initiated during the 2018-19 Kharif season as part of the Telangana Government’s Navratna Scheme.
• Objective: The main aim is to assist farmers with their initial investment requirements by providing financial support for agricultural and horticultural crops.
• Benefits: Farmers can receive a grant of ₹5,000 per acre per season for purchasing inputs, with no limit on the number of acres they own.
• Eligibility:
  • Farmers must be residents of Telangana.
  • Must own agricultural land.
  • Small and marginal farmers qualify.
  • Farmers cultivating land under the Record of Forest Rights (ROFR) document, primarily from Scheduled Tribe communities, are eligible.
• Ineligible Farmers:
  • Commercial farmers.
  • Farmers engaged in rental contracts or tenant farming.

Significance of the move:

• Financial Relief for Farmers: The scheme provides substantial financial relief by waiving loans of up to ₹2 lakh for each farmer, enabling them to manage debts and invest in future agricultural endeavors.
• Boost to Agricultural Sector: With the waiver, farmers can concentrate on enhancing productivity and crop yields without the stress of debt, which can lead to increased agricultural output in the state.
• Reduction in Farmer Distress: This initiative is expected to reduce distress among farmers, particularly those impacted by unpredictable weather and fluctuating crop prices, thereby lowering the chances of farm-related suicides and financial insecurity.

GS3/Economy

CERC steps in to tackle sudden Surges in Power Demand

Source: The Hindu

Why in news?

India's power regulator, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), has established a Single Member Bench to evaluate the challenges arising from a sudden increase in power demand.

Projected Power Demand for October 2024

• The anticipated peak power demand is 230 Gigawatts (GW).
• Considering Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) losses, the demand is projected to reach 232.2 GW.
• To satisfy this demand, an additional 12.60 GW of generation resources is necessary.

Concerns over Power System Operation

• Rapid increases in electricity demand without sufficient generation capabilities may threaten the stability of power system operations.
• Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs) and State Load Despatch Centres (SLDCs) are tasked with operational planning to manage these surges, especially during seasonal fluctuations.

About CERC

• Establishment
  • CERC was founded on July 24, 1998, under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998, and was later incorporated into the Electricity Act, 2003.
• Type
  • CERC is a statutory body with quasi-judicial authority under Section 76 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
• Ministry
  • CERC operates under the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
• Primary Functions
  • Regulates tariffs for power generation companies owned or controlled by the Government of India.
  • Regulates interstate transmission tariffs.
  • Issues licenses for interstate transmission and trading.
• Key Role in Tariff Evolution
  • Introduced a Two-Part Tariff in 1992.
  • Launched Availability Based Tariff (ABT) in 2000, aimed at enhancing grid stability.
• Advisory Role
  • Contributes to the National Electricity Policy and the Tariff Policy.
  • Encourages competition, efficiency, and investment within the electricity sector.
• Licensing
  • Issues licenses for electricity transmission and interstate trading.
• Grid Operation Standards
  • Enforces standards as per the Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC) to enhance grid stability and power quality.
• Dispute Resolution
  • Handles disputes between power generation companies and transmission licensees.
• Collaboration
  • Signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in 2009 to improve power market regulation and grid reliability.
• First Chairman
  • Mr. S.L. Rao served as the first chairman from 1998 to 2001.
• Previous Year Question (PYQ)
  • [2016]What is the purpose of 'UDAY,' a scheme initiated by the Government?
    • (a) To provide technical and financial support to start-up entrepreneurs in renewable energy.
    • (b) To ensure electricity access to every household in the country by 2018.
    • (c) To transition from coal-based power plants to natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind, and tidal energy sources over time.
    • (d) To facilitate the financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies.

GS1/Indian Society

India slipped on the Academic Freedom Index (AFI)

Source: Deccan Herald

Why in News?

India has experienced a notable decline in its ranking on the Academic Freedom Index over the past decade, indicating a significant reduction in the academic freedom available within the country.

About 

• Released by: Global Public Policy Institute (GPPi) in collaboration with Scholars at Risk (SAR) and V-Dem Institute (Varieties of Democracy)
• Published as part of: A global time-series dataset covering the years 1900 to 2019
• Purpose: To evaluate and quantify academic freedom across various nations
• Score Range: From 0 (complete repression) to 1 (full academic freedom), based on expert surveys and institutional data

Main Parameters

• Freedom to Research and Teach
• Institutional Autonomy
• Freedom of Academic Exchange and Dissemination
• Campus Integrity
• Freedom of Expression for Academics
• Constitutional Protection of Academic Freedom

Usage

• Tracking trends in academic freedom
• Influencing educational policy
• Advocating for academic liberty across different nations

Annual Report

• Published as part of the “Free to Think” report series by Scholars at Risk

India’s Performance:

• India's academic freedom score has decreased significantly from 0.6 points in 2013 to just 0.2 points in 2023, indicating a serious decline.
• The report classifies India as “completely restricted,” marking its lowest position since the mid-1940s.
• This regression is attributed to several factors, including:
  • Political Influence on Universities
  • Restrictions on Student Protests

Significance

• Impact on Democracy: The decline in academic freedom poses a threat to democratic values, as universities, traditionally seen as arenas for free thought and dissent, are increasingly monitored by political authorities, which undermines student protests and academic expression.
• International Reputation: The reduction in academic freedom may adversely affect India's global standing, potentially making it less appealing to international students, scholars, and collaborative research efforts.
• Long-Term Effects on Education: The politicization of higher education could stifle innovation and critical thinking, thereby impeding economic development and the cultivation of future leaders and policymakers.

GS2/International Relations

India signs $750-mn currency swap deal with forex-starved Maldives

Source: Mint

Why in news?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has initiated a Currency Swap Agreement with the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) as part of the SAARC Currency Swap Framework for the period 2024-27. This agreement aims to bolster India’s financial support to the Maldives, providing crucial liquidity assistance to address the country's economic challenges.

India’s Financial Support to Maldives

• India will provide $400 million through a US Dollar/Euro Swap Window.
• An additional ₹30 billion (approximately $357 million) will be available under the INR Swap Window.
• The Currency Swap Agreement is valid until June 18, 2027.

About SAARC Currency Swap Framework

• Objective: To offer short-term liquidity support to SAARC member countries during financial crises or instabilities.
• Administered by: Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• Launch Year: 2012.
• Countries Involved: All SAARC members including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
• Facility: Swap arrangements available in US Dollar, Euro, or Indian Rupee.
• Interest Rate: Determined by the currency borrowed, usually including a margin over international benchmark rates.
• Purpose: To tackle balance of payment crises and enhance financial stability.
• Recent Users: Sri Lanka, Maldives.

Maldives’ Debt Situation

• The Maldives' debt is estimated at 110% of its GDP, raising concerns about potential default on its sukuk (Islamic bond).
• A default would mark a significant event as it would be the world’s first instance of defaulting on an Islamic bond.
• Fitch Ratings projects that external debt obligations may reach $557 million by 2025 and exceed $1 billion in 2026.
• As of August, the Maldives' foreign reserves stood at just $437 million, sufficient to cover only one-and-a-half months of imports.
• India has previously provided a $50 million lifeline to help the Maldives manage its debt issues.
• The Export-Import Bank of India is owed a substantial amount, while the Export-Import Bank of China is owed about $530 million.

Significance of India’s Assistance

• Debt Relief: India’s financial aid, including the recent lifeline, aims to help the Maldives avoid a debt default and stabilize its economy.
• Geopolitical Influence: This assistance allows India to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Maldives, thus reinforcing its strategic position in the Indian Ocean region.
• Diplomatic Reset: India’s support is crucial for enhancing diplomatic relations, aiding the Maldives in debt restructuring, and fostering global partnerships.

GS2/International Relations

Visit of President of Maldives to India – Key Takeaways

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

On October 7, 2024, Prime Minister Modi held a meeting with President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives to thoroughly assess and advance the long-standing and close bilateral relations between the two nations.

Economic and Financial Support

• India committed financial support to the Maldives amounting to INR 30 billion and USD 400 million through a bilateral currency swap agreement.
• This financial assistance is crucial for the Maldives, as its foreign exchange reserves have significantly declined.
• Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) were initiated to enhance economic interactions and encourage Indian investments in the Maldives.
• Both countries agreed to conduct trade transactions in their local currencies.

Political Exchanges

• There was a mutual agreement to intensify political exchanges, including those involving parliamentarians and local government officials.
• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will formalize cooperation between the parliaments of both countries.

Reviving Defence and Security Cooperation

• India and the Maldives agreed to strengthen their defence and security ties, which were affected when President Muizzu ordered the withdrawal of Indian military personnel earlier this year.
• India will assist in repairing and refitting a Maldivian Coast Guard vessel.
• Both nations will collaborate on maritime security, disaster response, and enhancing defence capabilities.
• New initiatives will enhance Maldives' maritime capabilities, including providing radar systems and infrastructure support.

Defence and Maritime Security Initiatives

• Both countries acknowledged the need for cooperation in defence and maritime security and agreed to:
• Improve Maldives' surveillance and monitoring capacities.
• Support the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) with necessary equipment and infrastructure.
• Enhance disaster response and information-sharing capabilities.
• Inaugurate the newly constructed Maldivian Ministry of Defence building with India's support.

Key Agreements Signed

• During the meeting, five agreements were reached, including:
• A bilateral currency swap agreement.
• Training programs for judicial officers.
• Cooperation in preventing corruption.
• Law enforcement training.
• Collaboration in youth and sports development.
• Inauguration of 700 social housing units and a new runway at Hanimaadhoo International Airport.
• Launch of the RuPay card in the Maldives to facilitate payments for Indian tourists.

Development cooperation

• India and the Maldives will work together on various infrastructure projects, which include:
• Completing the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP) on schedule.
• Conducting feasibility studies for connecting islands and establishing a commercial port at Thilafushi.
• Jointly developing an Agricultural Economic Zone and fish processing facilities.

Digital Cooperation

• India will aid the Maldives in enhancing its digital and financial infrastructure through:
• Launching services like UPI and RuPay to improve e-governance and payment systems for tourists.

Health Cooperation

• India will assist in setting up Jan Aushadhi Kendras and improving emergency medical evacuation services.

Capacity Building and Training

• India will offer tailored training programs for civil servants and initiate programs focused on women-led development.
• A Start-up Incubator-Accelerator will be established in the Maldives to foster youth innovation.

Strengthened People-to-People Ties

• Both nations plan to enhance their people-to-people connections by:
• Establishing a Maldivian consulate in Bengaluru and an Indian consulate in Addu City.
• Recognizing the strong ties in tourism, education, and healthcare, with India being a major source market for Maldivian tourism.
• Supporting the creation of higher education institutions and skill development centers in the Maldives.
• Establishing an ICCR Chair at the Maldives National University to promote academic exchange.

Background: Strained Relations Between India and Maldives

The visit comes after a period of tension between the two nations. President Muizzu, who took office in November 2023, campaigned on a platform advocating for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel, which strained relations as he appeared to align more closely with China, evidenced by his visits to Turkey and China shortly after taking office.

• Relations soured further due to derogatory comments made by Maldivian officials about Indian Prime Minister Modi, leading to conflict on social media between citizens of both nations.
• This tension impacted tourism, with a notable drop of 50,000 Indian tourists, resulting in a financial loss of $150 million.
• In 2023, India accounted for over 11% of the 1.8 million tourist arrivals in the Maldives.

Muizzu’s Shift in Stance

Muizzu's change in approach indicates a recognition of the Maldives' domestic and economic challenges. Despite his previous rhetoric, he has acknowledged the importance of maintaining security ties with India while balancing relationships with other countries, including China.

• His visit is viewed as an effort to seek financial assistance from India amid looming economic difficulties, including significant debt obligations and a downgrade in credit ratings by Moody's.

GS3/Science and Technology

What is microRNA?

Source: India Today

The 2024 Nobel Prize for Medicine has been awarded to scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their discovery of microRNA — tiny molecules which play a crucial role in how genes function.

About microRNA:

• MicroRNAs, abbreviated as miRNAs, are small RNA molecules that do not code for proteins.
• Typically, these molecules are about 19 to 24 nucleotides in length.
• They are instrumental in regulating the amount of messenger RNA (mRNA) that gets translated into proteins, which carry genetic information.

Role in human body

• MicroRNAs function as molecular switches, fine-tuning gene expression in various cell types and conditions.
• They regulate protein production by binding to mRNA and silencing it at appropriate times, a process known as post-transcriptional gene regulation.
• These small molecules are vital for the regulation of numerous cellular processes, including development, growth, and metabolism.
• Maintaining normal cellular function is heavily reliant on microRNAs, and disruptions in their activity have been linked to several diseases, including cancer.
• Mutations in the genes that code for microRNAs have been associated with various human conditions, such as congenital hearing loss and certain eye and skeletal disorders.

Significance of microRNA discovery

• The discovery of microRNAs has equipped scientists with new tools to explore gene regulation.
• It has significantly broadened our understanding of how genetic information is processed and utilized within living organisms.

GS3/Science and Technology

Unified Genomic Chip

Source: Business Standard

Why in News?

Recently, the Prime Minister of India launched two programs of the Animal Husbandry Department for the benefit of the livestock - 'Indigenous Sex Sorted Semen' and 'Unified Genomic Chip'.

About

• Unified Genomic Chip: This initiative is designed to assist farmers in early identification of high-quality cattle, thereby enhancing the efficiency of dairy farming in India.
• Versions of the Chip: The chip is available in two varieties: the ‘Gau Chip’ for cattle and the ‘Mahish Chip’ for buffalo.
• Development: It has been developed by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), which operates under the Ministry of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries.

Purpose

• The primary goal of this chip is to empower farmers to make well-informed decisions regarding animal selection by identifying young, high-quality bulls at an early stage.

Benefit

• This chip is specifically tailored for Indian cattle breeds, contributing to the improvement of cattle quality and bolstering the dairy farming sector.

Key points about the Sex Sorted Semen Technology

• Sex Sorted Semen: This is a type of 'gender selected' semen utilized in Artificial Insemination (AI) for cattle and buffaloes, aiming to produce over 90% female offspring.
• Breed Improvement: This method is highly effective for advancing breed quality, previously dominated by multinational corporations.
• Indigenous Development: The National Dairy Development Board, under DAHD, has created a local version of sex-sorted semen technology valued at Rs. 250.

Technology used

• IVF Technology: Also known as test tube baby technology, this method is being employed for the production of sex-sorted semen.

DAHD target

• DAHD aims to produce at least 10 lakh doses of sexed semen annually to support the ongoing artificial insemination (AI) programs.

GS3/Environment

How high-performance buildings are the next step towards a sustainable future?

Source: The Hindu

Why in  News?

India is currently grappling with the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, leading to an urgent need to surpass global benchmarks for energy efficiency and carbon emissions. High-performance buildings (HPBs) present a viable solution, boasting designs that are resilient, adaptable, and self-sufficient, while also promoting healthier indoor conditions and improved air quality.

What are High-Performance Buildings (HPBs)?

High-performance buildings are specifically engineered to achieve exceptional standards of energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort. These structures surpass conventional building methods by incorporating advanced technologies and innovative design strategies aimed at minimizing environmental impacts, optimizing resource utilization, and enhancing overall performance.

• For instance, buildings like Unnati in Greater Noida and Indira Paryavaran Bhawan in New Delhi exemplify smart design elements such as sun-optimized facades and advanced HVAC systems, which significantly lower energy consumption.

Key features of HPBs include:

• Energy Efficiency: HPBs utilize state-of-the-art technologies, including energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart lighting controls, and superior insulation, to decrease energy usage effectively.
• Water Conservation: Implementation of practices such as greywater recycling and rainwater harvesting enables HPBs to significantly reduce water consumption.
• Sustainable Materials: The use of eco-friendly and durable materials helps in minimizing the carbon footprint of HPBs while enhancing their longevity.
• Site-Specific Design: HPBs are designed to leverage natural light, ventilation, and terrain-specific water management, which promotes thermal efficiency and lowers energy needs.
• Building Management Systems (BMS): These systems monitor real-time performance metrics, including energy and water usage as well as indoor air quality, facilitating ongoing optimization of resources.

How can HPBs help Indian cities?

• Resource Efficiency: HPBs contribute to reducing energy consumption and encourage water conservation, which is crucial in addressing the challenges of resource scarcity and volatile energy markets in India.
• Urban Resilience: By enhancing energy efficiency and self-sufficiency, HPBs enable cities to better adapt to rising temperatures and the pressures of urbanization.
• Healthier Environments: Through intelligent systems for air filtration, natural lighting, and smart temperature control, HPBs significantly improve indoor air quality and the overall well-being of occupants.
• The strain on Infrastructure: By minimizing resource usage, HPBs alleviate pressure on public infrastructure, making them essential for rapidly growing urban areas.
• Sustainable Growth: HPBs are pivotal in facilitating India's shift towards a low-carbon economy, supporting sustainable urbanization, and enhancing property value through long-term cost savings.

Way Forward:

• Scaling Adoption of HPBs: It is vital to encourage the widespread implementation of HPBs through government incentives, regulatory frameworks, and public-private partnerships, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 to foster inclusive, safe, and resilient urban communities.
• Innovation and Capacity Building: Promoting innovation in building technologies and investing in workforce training are key to developing HPBs, which will contribute to SDG Goal 7 by ensuring energy efficiency and reducing urban carbon emissions.