Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st November 2023) Part - 1 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Global Tiger Numbers Rise, Southeast Asia Faces Habitat Threats

Context: The global initiative to conserve tigers has witnessed a significant rise in their population, yet Southeast Asia faces alarming threats to their habitat.

• The latest submissions to the Global Tiger Recovery Program (GTRP) and United Nations Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) reveal a surge in tiger numbers by 60%, totaling 5,870 individuals.
• However, this promising increase is overshadowed by the grave challenges encountered in Southeast Asia.

Status of Tiger Conservation Worldwide

While South Asia and Russia celebrate positive strides in wild tiger conservation, Southeast Asia grapples with distressing declines. Nations like Bhutan, Myanmar, Cambodia, Lao-PDR, and Vietnam exhibit a decline in tiger populations, creating a concerning scenario in the region. Contrastingly, countries like India and Nepal, along with China and Russia in North East Asia, showcase successful conservation efforts due to robust habitat preservation measures.

• Global Tiger Recovery Program 2.0 (2023-34): The GTRP 2.0, unveiled on International Tiger Day 2023, aims to steer tiger conservation efforts from 2023 to 2034. Building upon the earlier initiative launched by the World Bank in 2010, this program emphasizes reinforcing tiger governance, enhancing protection resources, and tackling modern challenges like Human-Wildlife Conflict. It underlines the need for a multi-faceted approach to safeguard these endangered species.
• Threats to Global Tiger Population: Several factors jeopardize tiger populations worldwide. Widespread poaching of both tigers and their prey, inadequate patrolling, insufficient wildlife monitoring, forest loss for commercial purposes, proximity to wildlife trade hubs, and rapid infrastructure development contribute to the challenge. Additionally, habitat loss, fragmentation, and biodiversity depletion due to human activities pose serious threats to tiger conservation efforts.
• Report Recommendations for Tiger Conservation: The report underscores the urgency to reverse habitat loss, prey depletion, and tiger poaching for the sustainability of genetically viable tiger populations. Addressing human-induced environmental stress in Tiger Conservation Landscapes (TCLs) and implementing robust policy frameworks supported by political will and long-term resources are vital to counter these challenges.
• Initiatives for Tiger Conservation: Several global initiatives like the St. Petersburg Declaration on Tiger Conservation, the Global Tiger Forum, and the Global Tiger Initiative have united nations and organizations in the conservation endeavor. Nationally, projects like India's Project Tiger, the National Tiger Conservation Authority, and Tiger Census play pivotal roles in preserving tiger habitats and populations.

Conclusion

While the global tiger population's overall increase is heartening, the precarious situation faced by Southeast Asian tigers necessitates immediate and extensive conservation strategies. Collaborative efforts guided by effective policies and sustained resources are pivotal to ensure the continual recovery and well-being of this iconic species.

FSSAI Lacks Data on Genetically Modified Organisms

Context: In a recent development, an investigation through the Right to Information (RTI) Act has exposed a critical gap within the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

• The revelation indicates a startling absence of data on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in imported produce over the past five years.
• This discovery has triggered concerns about the potential presence of GM varieties in fruits and vegetables available in the market.

Understanding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

A GMO refers to any entity, be it a plant, animal, or microorganism, whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. While traditional methods like selective breeding have been used for generations to enhance specific traits in crops and animals, modern biotechnology has enabled direct manipulation of the genetic makeup of organisms.

Genetic Modification Techniques and Applications

• Various techniques are employed in genetic modification, each offering distinct advantages and applications. These alterations are aimed at introducing desired traits or characteristics into organisms.

Global Usage of GMOs

• Globally, approximately a dozen GMO species are cultivated on a large scale, with around 28 countries allowing the extensive farming of such crops. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 prohibits the import, manufacture, use, or sale of GM food without FSSAI's approval.
• Currently, India has only permitted the cultivation and import of GM cotton, a non-food crop. However, a contentious move to allow commercial cultivation of GM mustard is pending in the Supreme Court since 2022.

Concerns Arising from the RTI Investigation

The lack of data and clarity surrounding GM varieties in imported produce has raised several pressing concerns:

• Food Safety Apprehensions: The uncertainty regarding the presence of GM produce in the market poses potential health risks for consumers, considering the long-term health impacts that remain uncertain.
• Regulatory Ambiguity: The absence of clear information on GM varieties challenges effective regulation and monitoring, leading to ambiguity in overseeing the import and sale of genetically modified fruits and vegetables.
• Public Confidence: This revelation might erode public confidence in food safety regulations and oversight, influencing consumer choices and trust in the regulatory system.

FSSAI's Role and Functions

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It operates under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. 
• FSSAI holds responsibilities such as framing regulations, granting food safety licenses, laying down procedures for food laboratories, providing recommendations to the government on policies, data collection regarding food contaminants, and promoting general awareness about food safety and standards.

Conclusion

The recent discovery regarding FSSAI's lack of data on GMOs in imported produce has brought to light significant concerns related to food safety, regulatory oversight, and public trust. Addressing these issues is imperative to ensure a robust and transparent regulatory framework that safeguards consumer health and confidence in the food safety system.

6th India-OPEC Energy Dialogue

Context: The 6th High-Level Meeting of the India-Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Energy Dialogue recently convened in Vienna, Austria, underscoring a pivotal union between key representatives from India and OPEC member nations.

• This crucial assembly sought to explore and address significant facets of oil and energy markets, signifying a pivotal stride in global energy diplomacy.

Key Highlights of the Dialogue

The paramount focus of this influential gathering was to scrutinize pivotal issues entwined with oil and energy markets, with a specific emphasis on ensuring availability, affordability, and sustainability. These facets stand as linchpins in guaranteeing the stability of energy markets worldwide. The meeting culminated with a shared acknowledgment of the imperative need for bolstered cooperation between OPEC and India in the times ahead.

India's Growing Role in Energy Dynamics

Amidst discussions, attention was drawn to the World Oil Outlook 2023, prognosticating India's position as the fastest-growing major developing economy. Forecasts suggested a long-term growth average of 6.1% between 2022-2045, with India accounting for over 28% of incremental global energy demand during the same period. Recognizing India's significance as the third-largest energy consumer, crude oil importer, and the fourth-largest global refiner, both sides acknowledged its pivotal role in global economic growth and energy demand.

• Furthermore, commendation was extended towards India's initiatives and achievements in renewable energy, energy efficiency, hydrogen economy, and climate change mitigation. This recognition bolsters India's stance as a proactive participant in shaping a sustainable energy future.

OPEC: Driving Petroleum Policies Globally

A deeper insight into the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) reveals its genesis at the Baghdad Conference in 1960, with core member nations including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, OPEC's primary objective is to coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member countries to secure fair and stable prices, ensure an efficient supply to consuming nations, and guarantee a fair return on capital investments.

• With 13 member countries contributing approximately 30% of the world's crude oil, OPEC's significance in global oil dynamics cannot be overstated. Notably, Saudi Arabia, as the largest single oil supplier within the group, holds sway by producing more than 10 million barrels per day.

Evolution into OPEC+: A Collaborative Response

In the wake of shifting global oil landscapes, OPEC's strategic response led to the creation of OPEC+ in 2016. This collaboration, forged in response to plummeting oil prices driven by increased U.S. shale oil output, expanded the alliance to include 10 other oil-producing countries. Presently, OPEC+ comprises the original 13 OPEC member nations alongside Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan, and Sudan, collectively producing about 40% of the world's crude oil.

Looking Ahead: Forging Collaborative Paths

• Conclusively, the dialogue's outcomes resonate with the essence of fortifying collaboration and shared responsibility towards shaping sustainable energy futures. The decision to convene the subsequent High-Level Meeting in India in 2024 stands as a testament to the commitment towards nurturing an enduring partnership.
• As the world grapples with evolving energy landscapes and strives for sustainable development, the India-OPEC Energy Dialogue sets a precedent for harmonious collaboration, transcending borders and ideologies, to steer global energy dynamics towards a secure and sustainable future.

Eliminating Plastic Pollution by 2040

Context: In a world increasingly suffocated by plastic waste, the quest to eliminate plastic pollution has taken a crucial stride forward.

• The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recently unveiled an interim report titled "Towards Eliminating Plastic Pollution by 2040: A Policy Scenario Analysis."
• This groundbreaking report surfaces ahead of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (INC3), set to convene in Nairobi, Kenya, aiming for an international binding agreement on plastic pollution.

Understanding the Report

The interim report serves as a preliminary exposé, presenting initial findings, analyses, and progress toward combating the global menace of plastic pollution. It sheds light on several key aspects imperative to comprehending the severity of the plastic crisis and the imperative for swift action.

Key Highlights of the Report

Current Situation

• In 2022, a staggering 21 million tonnes of plastics infiltrated the environment globally. Alarming projections suggest a potential 50% surge in macroplastic leakage by 2040 if no substantial changes are implemented, amounting to approximately 30 million tonnes of plastic leaking into the environment, with 9 million tonnes finding their way into aquatic ecosystems.

Scenario Projections

• Stabilizing primary plastic usage at 2020 levels by 2040 still forecasts a substantial 12 million tonnes of plastic leakage. However, an ambitious global initiative could radically diminish waste generation, almost eradicating mismanaged waste and nearly eliminating plastic leakage by 2040.

Impact and Costs

• The escalating usage and disposal of plastics pose severe threats to the environment, climate, and human health, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing this issue through ambitious global actions would require an investment of 0.5% of global GDP in 2040, excluding the substantial costs of inaction.

Recommendations and Financial Needs

The report emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive policy scenarios and overcoming technical and economic barriers. To achieve the goal of eliminating plastic leakage by 2040, breakthroughs in recycling and scaling up international markets for secondary plastics are deemed imperative. Fast-growing nations with less advanced waste management systems will necessitate over USD 1 trillion in investments for effective waste collection, sorting, and treatment.

The Role of Intergovernmental Negotiation Committee (INC)

The INC, established in 2022 as a resolution of the United Nations Environment Assembly, seeks to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. The committee's objective is to finalize negotiations by the end of 2024, promoting country-driven approaches to prevent, reduce, and eliminate plastic pollution globally.

Initiatives to Combat Plastic Pollution

Several global initiatives and national policies are underway to combat the plastic crisis. Examples include the Indian Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, the European Union's Directive on Single-Use Plastics, and the Global Tourism Plastics initiative.

Understanding Microbeads

Microbeads, tiny plastic particles prevalent in cosmetics and cleaning products, pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems. These particles, smaller than 5mm, easily evade filtration systems and harm marine life, underscoring the urgency of banning such microplastics.

Conclusion

The OECD's interim report serves as a clarion call for global cooperation and urgent action to combat plastic pollution. With meticulous planning, robust policy frameworks, and international solidarity, the vision to eliminate plastic pollution by 2040 is within reach. As the world braces for INC3 in Nairobi, the imperative for resolute action against plastic pollution has never been more pronounced.