Weekly Current Affairs (1st to 7th December 2023) | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

Italy Withdraws from BRI

Italy has officially withdrawn from China’s Belt and Road infrastructure initiative, marking the end of its participation more than four years after becoming the only G7 nation to sign up. The decision, communicated to Beijing three days prior, reflects Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s long-standing opposition to Italy’s involvement in an initiative seen by many as an attempt by Beijing to exert political influence.

Background

• Italy joined the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2019 under the government of then Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.
• Prime Minister Meloni has been critical of the initiative, expressing concerns about its limited benefits to Italy and the potential for Beijing to use it to buy political influence.
• The decision to withdraw comes ahead of the automatic renewal date in March 2024, allowing Italy to opt out by the end of the year.

Meloni’s Stance and Diplomatic Channels

• Prime Minister Meloni has emphasized that leaving the project would not compromise relations with China, and the withdrawal was done in a way to “keep channels of political dialogue open.”
• The move is seen as a balancing act to disengage from the initiative without provoking Beijing and risking retaliation against Italian companies.

BRI and Global Dynamics

• China’s Belt and Road Initiative has seen participation from over 150 countries, with significant investments in infrastructure projects worldwide.
• Critics argue that the initiative can lead to massive debt burdens for participating countries and provide China with undue influence in global affairs.
• Italy’s withdrawal is viewed as having limited impact, considering other major European economies like Germany and France did not join the BRI but secured important trade and investment deals.

Global Concerns

• There are concerns, particularly among Western nations, that China may seek to reshape the global world order in its favor through initiatives like BRI.
• The United States has warned that China could use the BRI as a pretext to build military bases around the world, citing protection of BRI investments.

India’s Strategic Focus on Duqm Port

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to host Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tarik later this month, with a primary focus on strengthening India’s presence at the strategically located Duqm Port in Oman. This visit marks Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s first trip to India since assuming the role following the demise of his predecessor, Qaboos bin Said Al Said.

Duqm Port Infrastructure Projects

• Oman is scheduled to inaugurate two key infrastructure projects at the Duqm Port complex before the Sultan’s India visit. Discussions will prioritize facilities for India at the port, where the Indian Navy has been granted access, enhancing India’s maritime strategy in the Indian Ocean Region.

Key Maritime Role of Duqm Port

• Duqm Port’s location overlooking the Gulf of Oman, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea positions it as a crucial asset for India’s maritime strategy. It provides India with access to the Red Sea via the Gulf of Aden, aligning with India’s efforts to maintain a strategic presence in the western Indian Ocean Region.

Oman-India Defence Cooperation

• Defence cooperation between Oman and India has evolved as a key element of their strategic partnership. Oman holds the status of being India’s oldest strategic and defence partner in the Gulf region. Defence exchanges, guided by a framework MoU renewed in 2021, underscore the mutual commitment to security interests.
• In 2021, the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman signed an MoU on the exchange of white shipping information, contributing to enhanced maritime safety and security. This collaboration involves sharing data through the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region and the Muscat-headquartered MSC.

Bilateral Naval Exercises

• The naval partnership between India and Oman extends to regular bilateral exercises, including the biennial maritime exercise ‘Naseem Al Bahr.’ Oman actively participates in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, reflecting the depth of cooperation between the two nations. Oman provides crucial operational support to Indian naval deployments in the Arabian Sea.

Economic Opportunities

• Oman has invited India to invest in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Sohar and Salalah. This reflects Oman’s eagerness to strengthen economic ties with India and provides potential opportunities for Indian businesses.

Indian Post Office Bill, 2023

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Post Office Bill, 2023, a significant legislative move aimed at revamping and modernizing the country’s postal services. The bill proposes to repeal the archaic Indian Post Office Act, which has been in existence for 125 years, and aims to consolidate and amend laws related to post offices in India.

Evolution of Postal Services

• Over the years, postal services have evolved beyond traditional mail delivery, becoming essential for delivering various citizen-centric services. The proposed legislation reflects the transformation of post offices into multifaceted service-delivery institutions. 
• The bill acknowledges that post offices, once considered outdated during the UPA regime, have undergone a remarkable transformation, turning into service hubs rather than just mail delivery mechanisms.

National Security and Privacy Concerns

• A key provision in the bill empowers the central government to authorize officers to intercept, open, or detain items in the interest of national security, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, emergency, public safety, or to address contraventions of existing laws. 
• While this provision has raised concerns about potential privacy infringements, proponents argue that it is crucial for national security in a complex and diverse society.

Post Office Expansion and Transformation

• The legislation reflects the government’s commitment to expanding and transforming the post office network. Despite the closure of some post offices earlier, there has been a significant increase in the number of post offices, with around 5,000 new offices opened between 2014 and 2023. 
• An additional 5,746 new offices are in the process of being opened, highlighting the renewed importance placed on postal services.

Section 9 Controversy

• The opposition has raised concerns about Section 9 of the bill, particularly the provision that grants post office officials the authority to intercept, open, or detain items. Critics argue that this provision may infringe on the fundamental right to privacy. 
• However, supporters emphasize the necessity of such measures for national security in today’s complex and challenging times.

Simplifying Legislative Framework

• The statement of objects and reasons behind the bill highlights the need for a simplified legislative framework to govern post offices in the country. The goal is to facilitate the transformation of post offices into a network that efficiently delivers citizen-centric services. 
• The bill also grants the director general of postal services the authority to frame regulations and fix charges for services.

Global Carbon Emission Projections for 2023

According to an international research team, carbon emissions in India are expected to rise by 8.2 percent in 2023, while China is projected to see a 4 percent increase. The findings come from the Global Carbon Budget report, a comprehensive annual update produced by over 120 scientists, including the University of Exeter, UK, and researchers from 90 global institutions.

Global Trends in Emissions

The report indicates that global emissions from coal, oil, and gas are anticipated to increase by 1.1, 1.5, and 0.5 percent, respectively. In contrast, the European Union (EU) and the United States are predicted to experience declines of 7.4 and 3 percent in their emissions.

Key Figures from the Report

• Total global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, including fossil fuels and land-use change, are projected to reach 40.9 billion tonnes in 2023.
• Fossil fuel-related emissions are expected to increase by 1.1 percent, reaching 36.8 billion tonnes.
• Atmospheric CO2 levels are estimated to average 419.3 parts per million in 2023, exceeding pre-industrial levels by over 50 percent.

Carbon Dioxide Removal Challenges

• The report highlights challenges in technology-based Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR), excluding nature-based methods like reforestation. 
• Current technology-based CDR amounts to only about 0.01 million tonnes CO2, significantly smaller than current fossil CO2 emissions.

IN-SPACe Launches Seed Fund Scheme for Space Tech Start-ups

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has introduced a seed fund scheme aimed at supporting start-ups engaged in the fields of urban development and disaster management through the utilization of space technology. The scheme offers selected start-ups seed funding to develop their original ideas into prototypes using space technology. Additionally, start-ups will receive ISRO facility support, mentorship, and access to data algorithms, including Earth Observation (EO) data for validation. The scheme includes financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore, along with training, networking opportunities, and mentorship support.

Key Features of the Seed Fund Scheme

• Seed Funding: Start-ups will receive financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore to transform their ideas into prototypes using space technology.
• ISRO Facility Support: Selected start-ups will benefit from ISRO facility support, including Earth Observation (EO) data for concept validation.
• Mentorship Support: The scheme provides mentorship support to guide start-ups through the development process.
• Data Algorithm Access: Start-ups will have access to data algorithms as a technology transfer from the Department of Science (DoS).
• IN-SPACe’s Role: IN-SPACe, as the nodal agency in DoS, plays a crucial role in promoting, enabling, authorizing, and supervising space activities of Non-Government Entities (NGEs).
• Graduation Opportunities: The scheme aims to provide opportunities for NGEs leveraging space technology for societal benefits to advance to the next level.

Focus Areas

• Urban Development: Opportunities for start-ups in urban planning, monitoring, infrastructure management, telecommunication, navigation, broadband connectivity, water resources management, energy efficiency, climate and weather monitoring, disaster risk reduction, public health, and healthcare.
• Disaster Management: Opportunities for start-ups specializing in geographical information systems (GIS), early warning and monitoring systems, search and rescue operations, and more.

Unprecedented Monkeypox Outbreak in the DRC

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is grappling with a severe monkeypox outbreak, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting a staggering 12,569 suspected cases and 581 deaths from January 1 to November 12, 2023. This marks the highest annual case count ever recorded and poses significant challenges for the affected regions.

Geographic Spread and New Milestones

• Infections have surfaced in areas previously unaffected by monkeypox, including Kinshasa, Lualaba, and South Kivu, indicating a concerning geographic spread. 
• Two unprecedented milestones for the DRC were noted during this outbreak – the first confirmed sexually-transmitted monkeypox infections and the first cases reported in the country’s capital, Kinshasa.

Provincial Impact and Endemic Status

• The outbreak has impacted 22 out of 26 provinces, with 11 provinces previously identified as endemic for monkeypox. Over the years, the number of provinces reporting cases has increased, reaching 22 provinces as of November 2023. 
• This contrasts with the previous largest outbreak in 2020 when 17 provinces recorded 4,594 suspected cases.

Monkeypox Virus and Sexual Transmission

• Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV) endemic in densely forested regions of West, Central, and East Africa. In the DRC, it was first identified in humans in 1970. The WHO highlighted a growing outbreak of monkeypox cases linked to sexual transmission. 
• Two types of MPXV exist – Clade I and Clade II. Clade I MPXV, known as the Congo Basin Clade, is the only type detected in the DRC, and sexual transmission cases were reported in April 2023.

First Outbreak in Kinshasa

• A notable development is the occurrence of monkeypox cases in Kinshasa, the capital of the DRC, for the first time. From August 18 to November 12, 2023, 102 suspected cases were reported in eight health zones, including 18 confirmed cases and one confirmed monkeypox death. 
• This shift to a large urban area signifies a changing epidemiology of monkeypox in the DRC.

Ongoing Assessment

• Amidst these challenges, a joint mission by the Ministry of Health and the WHO is underway in the country to comprehensively assess the situation. 
• The evolving nature of the outbreak demands swift and coordinated efforts to contain the spread, provide medical care, and implement preventive measures to curb the unprecedented impact of monkeypox in the DRC.

India Re-elected to International Maritime Organisation Council

In a recent assembly, India achieved a significant milestone by being re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2024–25 biennium. This re-election places India in the esteemed Category of 10 states with the “largest interest in international seaborne trade,” standing alongside influential nations such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Key Role of International Maritime Organisation

• The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) stands as the primary authority regulating the maritime industry, supporting global trade, transportation, and all marine operations. The IMO Council, functioning as the executive organ, supervises the organization’s work under the assembly. 
• It takes on the assembly’s functions between sessions, excluding making recommendations to governments on maritime safety and pollution prevention.

India’s Vision for IMO Representation

• Under the Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030), India aims to appoint permanent representatives at IMO London. The proposal also suggests nominating at least two qualified candidates for the Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Program at the IMO. 
• The JPO Program, part of the United Nations, provides young professionals an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international cooperation.

Amrik Kaal Vision 2047

• The Amrik Kaal Vision 2047 outlines 43 initiatives, focusing on enhancing India’s global maritime presence. 
• Key initiatives include establishing a dedicated IMO cell in India, appointing a permanent representative at IMO headquarters in London, implementing the BIMSTEC Master Plan, and creating a robust institutional structure for BIMSTEC to ensure coordinated and timely implementation of regional projects.

iDEX Reaches 300th Contract Milestone

The Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the flagship initiative of the Department of Defence Production, has achieved a significant milestone by signing its 300th contract. This landmark contract focuses on the design and development of advanced Gallium Nitride Semiconductors, a crucial element for the next generation of wireless transmitters in defence applications, including radars and Electronics Warfare (EW) jammers.

Purpose of the Initiative

• Presently, the majority of Gallium Nitride (GaN) components are imported due to the sensitivity and cutting-edge nature of the technology, with many countries controlling and restricting its export. The new contract aims to break this import dependency by designing, developing, and manufacturing GaN components for defence within India, utilizing entirely indigenous GaN technology. 
• This initiative is anticipated to significantly boost indigenous design and development capabilities, opening avenues for substantial growth in the defence sector, including potential exports.

Significant Achievement and Timeline

• The 300th contract was signed by Additional Secretary (Defence Industries Production) & CEO/DIO T Natarajan with M/s Agnit Semiconductors Private Limited. 
• The iDEX reached this milestone within nine months of signing its 200th contract, which was part of the Indian Navy Prime challenge launched under the SPRINT initiative on February 15, 2023. The 150th contract was signed in December 2022.

About iDEX

• Launched by the Prime Minister in 2018, iDEX aims to provide a platform for co-creation and co-development in the defence sector, engaging startups and fostering the development of the defence and aerospace setup in the country. Implemented by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) under the Department of Defence Production, iDEX has rapidly emerged as a game changer in the defence ecosystem. 
• Recognized with the prestigious Prime Minister Award for Public Policy in the Innovation Category for the year 2021, iDEX has successfully generated a critical mass of startups in the defence sector, creating jobs and attracting India’s talent back to the country.

‘Make in India’ Commitment

• In alignment with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) signed a procurement contract with iDEX Winner M/s Blurgs Innovations Private Limited. This marks the first procurement order placed by a Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) under the iDEX scheme. 
• The contract is for their solution TRIDENT, an intelligent maritime domain awareness tool designed to enhance maritime security through anomalous detection, supporting quicker decision-making processes. This underscores iDEX’s role as a ‘path to procurement’ for innovators, further fostering the ‘Make in India’ commitment in the defence sector.

White Lung Syndrome Outbreak

A new strain of bacterial pneumonia, commonly referred to as ‘White Lung Syndrome,’ is causing concern in various countries, including China, Denmark, the United States, and the Netherlands. Primarily affecting children between the ages of three and eight, this illness is associated with lung damage visible as white patches on X-rays.

Diverse Respiratory Ailments under ‘White Lung Syndrome’:

The term ‘White Lung Syndrome’ encompasses various respiratory conditions, including:

• Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): A severe pulmonary condition leading to fluid accumulation in lung air sacs, resulting in breathing difficulties. ARDS can be triggered by factors like pneumonia, sepsis, and trauma.
• Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis (PAM): An uncommon lung disorder marked by calcium deposition in air sacs, causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain.
• Silicosis: A respiratory ailment resulting from inhaling silica dust, commonly found in materials like sand and stone. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain.

Common Symptoms of White Lung Syndrome:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Fatigue

Potential Causes of White Lung Syndrome:

• While the exact cause is under investigation, experts suggest that a combination of bacterial, viral, and environmental factors may contribute to White Lung Syndrome. 
• Viruses like influenza or COVID-19, bacterial infections (such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae), and environmental factors like inhaling silica dust can all potentially induce this syndrome.

Treatment Options and Outlook:

• The treatment for White Lung Syndrome varies based on its cause. Possible treatment options include antibiotics, antivirals, oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and corticosteroids. 
• The severity of the disease determines the chosen approach, with outcomes ranging from full recovery to potential long-term lung damage.

SC Calls for Resolution in Tamil Nadu Governor-Bills Impasse

The Supreme Court has intervened in the ongoing impasse between the Tamil Nadu Governor, R N Ravi, and Chief Minister M K Stalin over the delay in clearing Bills sent by the Assembly. The court emphasized that a Governor cannot withhold assent and refer a Bill for Presidential consideration without returning it to the Assembly. The Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, urged the Governor to engage with the Chief Minister and resolve the deadlock. The court expressed concern about the constitutional functionary and highlighted the need for dialogue to address the issues.

Key Points from SC’s Remarks

• Impasse Resolution: The Supreme Court urged Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi to engage with Chief Minister M K Stalin and resolve the impasse over the delay in clearing Bills sent by the Assembly.
• Constitutional Functionary: The court acknowledged that it is dealing with a high constitutional functionary and emphasized the importance of resolving differences through dialogue.
• Governor’s Options: The court clarified that if a Governor withholds assent to a Bill, he must send it back to the Assembly and cannot simply retain the Bill. The Governor cannot refer the Bill for Presidential consideration after the Assembly re-enacts it.
• Three Options: The court highlighted that the Governor has three options under Article 200 of the Constitution: assent to the Bill, withhold assent, or reserve the Bill for the consideration of the President.
• Prohibition on Withholding Assent: Once the Governor withholds assent, he cannot then refer the Bill to the President. The court emphasized that there is no fourth option for the Governor, and he must follow one of the three specified options.
• Constitutional Implications: The court pointed out that the President holds an elected office and has broader powers conferred by the Constitution, while the Governor, as a nominee of the Union government, must exercise options specified in Article 200.
• Message or Recommendation: The court distinguished between withholding assent and sending a message or making a recommendation. Once the Assembly disregards the Governor’s recommendation, the Bill returns to the Governor, who then has no option.
• Pending Proceedings: The court expressed concern about the Governor’s actions while the matter is pending before the court and acknowledged the potential for constitutional obstinacy.

NASA’s Vision for Lunar Colonies by 2040

NASA’s ambitious plan to establish human settlements on the moon by 2040 has captivated the imagination of scientists, engineers, and dreamers worldwide. The Artemis program, a comprehensive initiative by the US space agency, charts a course for humanity’s significant leap beyond Earth, envisioning sustainable habitats on the lunar surface.

Lunar Homestead: Blueprint for the Future

• At the heart of the Artemis program lies the Lunar Homestead project, a groundbreaking endeavor focused on developing the architectural framework for habitable structures on the moon. 
• With the goal of facilitating prolonged human presence and scientific exploration, this initiative calls upon scientists and engineers to design innovative lunar constructions and devise methods for resource access crucial to survival.

Engineering Marvels for Lunar Living

• Creating habitable structures on the moon demands groundbreaking engineering solutions. These structures must withstand the moon’s harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, micrometeorite impacts, and cosmic radiation. 
• To achieve this, NASA is turning to cutting-edge technologies and advanced materials.

Lunar Resources as Building Blocks

• NASA envisions utilizing the moon’s soil-like substance, lunar regolith, as a primary construction resource. The plan involves employing 3D printing techniques and robotic systems to bind regolith, forming protective shields around habitats. 
• These structures will serve as insulation against temperature fluctuations and provide vital protection from harmful radiation, ensuring the safety of lunar inhabitants.

Challenges and Solutions

• While NASA faces challenges, including the lack of a robust rocket for lunar construction, the space agency is adopting a step-by-step approach. The iconic rocket used in the Apollo missions is no longer in production, prompting the need for new solutions. 
• NASA’s plan unfolds with sustainable human presence on the moon by the mid-2020s, laying the groundwork for habitats and foundational infrastructure.

International Conference on Public Health in Africa

Africa faces a significant public health challenge, with the continent experiencing over 100 outbreaks of infectious diseases each year, averaging two new outbreaks per week, according to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The ongoing International Conference on Public Health in Africa, which commenced on November 27, 2023, in Zambia, highlights the critical link between climate change and health in the region.

Key Highlights from the Conference

• Zoonotic Outbreaks: About 75% of the recorded outbreaks in Africa are of zoonotic origin, exacerbated by the impacts of climate change. Climate change influences the frequency and severity of outbreaks, posing a substantial threat to public health.
• Climate Change and Health Acknowledged at COP28: The African Group of Negotiators (AGN), ministers, and climate change stakeholders from Africa jointly recognized the connection between climate change and health at the 28th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28).
• Natural Disasters and Health Impacts: The recent floods in East Africa due to El Niño are a clear indication of the links between climate change and health. Concerns are raised about the potential outbreak of diseases like malaria in the aftermath of such natural disasters.
• Cholera and Dengue Outbreaks: Cholera outbreaks have affected at least 18 countries in Africa, resulting in over 4,000 deaths. Additionally, West African countries are grappling with dengue outbreaks, with Burkina Faso reporting 570 dengue-related deaths between January and November.
• Economic Impact: Climate change impacts contribute to significant economic losses in Africa, accounting for 5-15% of the continent’s GDP annually, as per the African Development Bank.
• One-Health Approach: Africa CDC is committed to supporting African countries in adopting a comprehensive One-Health approach to address climate-related health challenges. The strategy focuses on the interconnected themes of Community, Connectivity, Capacity, Collaboration, and Climate.
• Digital Technology and Connectivity: The potential of digital technology, including artificial intelligence, is emphasized to address the under-notification of outbreaks. Enhancing connectivity will bridge geographical gaps and empower the continent to respond to public health challenges more effectively.
• Health Workforce Shortages: Africa faces a shortage of qualified health workers, particularly epidemiologists. To strengthen the health system, addressing the persistent shortages and poor distribution of the health workforce is critical.
• Call for Collaboration: Collaboration among various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, NGOs, and academic institutions, is highlighted as essential for addressing public health challenges efficiently and effectively.