Weekly Current Affairs (8th June to 15th June 2023) | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR)

The Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR) is a significant initiative launched by the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. It aims to leverage emerging technologies in the power sector through indigenous development and collaboration. MAHIR is funded through a pooling of resources from relevant ministries and central public sector enterprises, ensuring comprehensive support for research and development activities.

Key Highlights

Objectives of MAHIR:

• The primary objective of MAHIR is to harness emerging technologies in the power sector through indigenous development and collaboration.
• The mission aims to drive high-impact research initiatives that contribute to the advancement of the power sector.

Funding Mechanism:

• MAHIR is funded through a pooling of resources from the Ministry of Power, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and central public sector enterprises under these ministries.
• Additional funding required for the mission will be mobilized from the budgetary resources of the Government of India.

Comprehensive Research Support:

• The pooling of financial resources ensures comprehensive support for research and development activities under MAHIR.
• This support enables the mission to explore and develop innovative technologies that have a high impact on the power sector.

Two-Tier Structure:

• MAHIR operates through a two-tier structure consisting of a Technical Scoping Committee and an Apex Committee.
• The Technical Scoping Committee identifies potential technologies for development, outlines research plans, and recommends projects for approval.
• The Apex Committee monitors the progress of approved projects and provides guidance to ensure their successful implementation.

The Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR) is a significant initiative that aims to leverage emerging technologies in the power sector through indigenous development and collaboration. With comprehensive funding support from relevant ministries and central public sector enterprises, MAHIR drives high-impact research and development activities. Through its two-tier structure, MAHIR identifies potential technologies, outlines research plans, and monitors approved projects, contributing to the advancement of the power sector in India.

Amrit Generation Campaign

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched the Amrit Generation campaign, empowering and engaging the youth of India by providing them a platform to express their aspirations and dreams for the future. In another context, Indian-origin scientist Joyeeta Gupta has been honored with the prestigious Spinoza Prize, recognizing her remarkable contributions to science and her commitment to creating a just and sustainable world.

Key Highlights

Empowering the Youth:

• The Amrit Generation campaign aims to empower the youth of India by providing them a platform to express their aspirations and dreams for the future.
• It encourages young individuals from all parts of the country to showcase their creativity and express their dreams through Reels on popular social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

Visual Expression of Ambitions:

• Through the Amrit Generation campaign, participants can visually express their ambitions and what they aspire to become when they grow up.
• The campaign fosters a sense of community among the youth and serves as an inspiration to others.

Partnership with Meta India:

• Meta India, a leading company in the digital space, has partnered with the Ministry of Women and Child Development for the Amrit Generation campaign.
• This collaboration enhances the reach and impact of the campaign, leveraging social media platforms to amplify the voices of the youth.
• Joyeeta Gupta Honored with Spinoza Prize

Key Facts

Significance of the Spinoza Prize:

• The Spinoza Prize is widely regarded as the highest distinction in Dutch science.
• It recognizes outstanding researchers who have made significant advancements in their fields and demonstrated exceptional scientific contributions.

Recognition of Joyeeta Gupta:

• Joyeeta Gupta, an Indian-origin scientist, has been honored with the Spinoza Prize for her remarkable contributions to science and her commitment to creating a just and sustainable world.
• This prestigious award serves as a testament to her groundbreaking work and profound impact on society.

The Amrit Generation Campaign: Naye Bharat Ke Sapne provides a platform for the youth of India to express their dreams and aspirations, fostering a sense of empowerment and community. Through the partnership with Meta India, the campaign reaches a wider audience, amplifying the voices of the youth on social media platforms. Additionally, Joyeeta Gupta's recognition with the Spinoza Prize highlights her exceptional contributions to science and her dedication to creating a just and sustainable world. These initiatives celebrate the talent, aspirations, and impactful work of individuals in India and beyond.

Air Defender-23: Largest NATO Air Force Deployment Exercise

Air Defender-23 is a multinational exercise that is set to make history as the largest air force deployment exercise conducted by NATO. With the participation of 25 nations, this joint endeavor demonstrates transatlantic solidarity and aims to enhance cooperation and readiness among allied air forces.

Key Highlights

Participation of 25 Nations:

• Air Defender-23 involves the participation of 25 nations, coming together to train in the airspace above Europe.
• This multinational exercise highlights the collective commitment to defense and security among NATO member countries.

Showcasing Diverse Capabilities:

• Air Defender-23 features the participation of approximately 10,000 servicemen and women from the 25 participating nations.
• The exercise involves a fleet of 250 aircraft, representing 23 different types, showcasing the diverse capabilities of allied air forces.

Display of Transatlantic Solidarity:

• Air Defender-23 serves as a display of transatlantic solidarity, reinforcing the strong bonds and cooperation among NATO member countries.
• The exercise promotes interoperability and strengthens collective defense efforts.

Germany as the Logistical Hub:

• Germany has assumed the role of the logistical hub for Air Defender-23.
• The country facilitates the coordination and smooth execution of the exercise, ensuring effective communication and operational efficiency.

Air Defender-23, the largest air force deployment exercise conducted by NATO, brings together 25 nations in a display of transatlantic solidarity and commitment to collective defense. With a diverse fleet of 250 aircraft and the participation of approximately 10,000 servicemen and women, the exercise showcases the capabilities and cooperation among allied air forces. Germany's role as the logistical hub ensures efficient coordination and contributes to the successful execution of the exercise. Air Defender-23 reinforces the readiness and interoperability of NATO member countries in ensuring the security and defense of the region.

Parker Solar Probe: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Sun

The Parker Solar Probe, a groundbreaking solar mission, has ventured closer to the sun to unravel its mysteries. Through remarkable discoveries, including the identification of the source of the solar wind, this mission has provided valuable insights into space weather and its potential impacts on Earth.

Key Highlights

Origin of the Solar Wind:

• Researchers from the University of California-Berkeley, utilizing data collected by the Parker Solar Probe, have shed light on the origin of the solar wind.
• The solar wind, a stream of particles originating from the sun's corona, plays a crucial role in space weather that can affect our planet.

Significance of the Discovery:

• The discovery of the solar wind's source is a breakthrough moment for scientists, allowing for more accurate predictions of space weather and solar storms.
• Understanding the mechanisms behind the sun's wind enables scientists to anticipate and mitigate potential risks to Earth's technological infrastructure and communication networks.

Space Weather and Mitigation:

• Space weather, influenced by the solar wind, can impact satellite operations, communication systems, and power grids on Earth.
• By comprehending the intricacies of the sun's wind, scientists can better anticipate and mitigate the potential risks associated with space weather phenomena.

he Parker Solar Probe, through its close proximity to the sun, has provided groundbreaking discoveries, including identifying the source of the solar wind. This breakthrough enables more accurate predictions of space weather and solar storms, which have significant implications for Earth's technological infrastructure. By understanding the mechanisms behind the sun's wind, scientists can anticipate and mitigate potential risks associated with space weather phenomena, ensuring the protection and resilience of our communication networks and critical systems. The Parker Solar Probe continues to unravel the mysteries of the sun, providing valuable insights into our solar system and its impacts on Earth.

India, France, and UAE Maritime Partnership Exercise

The first-ever India-France-UAE Maritime Partnership Exercise took place in the Gulf of Oman, marking a significant milestone in strengthening trilateral cooperation among the navies of India, France, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With a focus on joint strategies and maritime security, the exercise showcased the participation of naval assets and the execution of various operations.

Key Highlights

Strengthening Trilateral Cooperation:

• The India-France-UAE Maritime Partnership Exercise aimed to strengthen cooperation and enhance coordination among the navies of the three nations.
• This exercise marked a significant milestone in promoting joint strategies and collaboration in maritime security.

Operations in the Gulf of Oman:

• The exercise unfolded in the Gulf of Oman, a strategically important maritime region known for its crucial trade routes and geopolitical significance.
• Participating naval assets operated in this region to enhance their preparedness and effectiveness in ensuring maritime security.

Naval Assets and Operations:

• The Indian Navy's INS Tarkash, a powerful frigate, played a pivotal role in the exercise, showcasing India's maritime capabilities.
• The French Navy's Surcouf also participated, contributing to the joint operations and cooperation among the navies.
• Rafale fighter jets were deployed, demonstrating the airpower capabilities of the participating nations and highlighting the integration of naval and aerial forces.

The India-France-UAE Maritime Partnership Exercise in the Gulf of Oman represents a significant step in strengthening trilateral cooperation among the navies of India, France, and the UAE. This exercise aimed to improve joint strategies and ensure maritime security in the region. With the participation of naval assets and the execution of various operations, the exercise showcased the capabilities and coordination among the participating nations. The integration of airpower, exemplified by the deployment of Rafale fighter jets, emphasized the comprehensive approach to maritime security. The exercise signifies the commitment of these nations to enhancing maritime cooperation and ensuring the stability of vital trade routes in the Gulf of Oman.

Atlantic Declaration: US-UK Strategic Pact to Address Global Challenges

The United States and the United Kingdom have forged a new strategic pact called the Atlantic Declaration, aimed at addressing pressing global challenges. Adopted by US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, this agreement focuses on tackling the rising influence of China, the aggressive actions of Russia, and economic instability that threatens both nations.

Key Highlights

Addressing Global Challenges:

• The Atlantic Declaration explicitly recognizes the challenges that threaten international stability and security.
• It acknowledges the rise of authoritarian states, the disruptive influence of advanced technologies, the impact of non-state actors, and the transnational challenges posed by climate change.

Focus on China, Russia, and Economic Instability:

• The agreement highlights the need to address the rising influence of China, which poses challenges to global norms and regional stability.
• It also addresses the aggressive actions of Russia and the economic instability that threatens both the US and the UK.

Fostering a Stable and Secure Global Environment:

• By addressing these concerns head-on, the Atlantic Declaration aims to foster a more stable and secure global environment.
• The strategic pact emphasizes cooperation between the US and the UK in tackling these challenges and promoting international stability.

Collaboration on Global Security:

• The Atlantic Declaration underscores the importance of collaboration between the US and the UK in areas of global security, defense, and intelligence sharing.
• It reinforces their commitment to collective defense and addressing shared security threats.

The Atlantic Declaration between the United States and the United Kingdom signifies their joint commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. With a focus on the rising influence of China, the aggressive actions of Russia, and economic instability, the agreement aims to foster a stable and secure global environment. By recognizing the challenges to international stability and promoting cooperation, the US and the UK seek to address these concerns and promote global security and prosperity. The Atlantic Declaration highlights their shared commitment to tackling pressing global issues and advancing their strategic partnership.

RBI Guidelines on Default Loss Guarantee

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced guidelines allowing a 'first loss default guarantee' (FLDG) arrangement between regulated entities and lending service providers. This significant step aims to enhance the digital lending sector and mitigate credit risks associated with it.

Key Highlights

Objective of the Guidelines:

• The RBI guidelines on default loss guarantee (DLG) arrangements aim to address credit risks in the digital lending sector and foster responsible lending practices.
• The guidelines provide a framework for regulated entities, such as banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), to enter into DLG arrangements with lending service providers or other regulated entities.

Credit-Risk Sharing Agreement:

• DLG arrangements offer a credit-risk sharing agreement, where a third party guarantees to compensate up to a certain percentage of default in the loan portfolio of the regulated entity.
• This arrangement provides an additional layer of protection against potential losses incurred due to defaults.

Forms of Default Loss Guarantees:

• The RBI guidelines specify various forms of default loss guarantees allowed for regulated entities.
• These include cash deposits maintained with the lending service providers or regulated entities, fixed deposits maintained with a lien marked in favor of the entity, and bank guarantees in favor of the entity.

Enhancing Risk Mitigation:

• The introduction of default loss guarantee arrangements aims to enhance risk mitigation in the digital lending sector.
• It provides a mechanism for regulated entities to manage credit risks associated with their loan portfolios, fostering a more secure lending ecosystem.

The RBI's guidelines on default loss guarantee (DLG) arrangements signify an important step towards enhancing the digital lending sector in India. By allowing regulated entities to enter into DLG arrangements with lending service providers or other regulated entities, the RBI aims to mitigate credit risks and foster responsible lending practices. The various forms of default loss guarantees specified in the guidelines offer a credit-risk sharing agreement, enhancing risk mitigation and stability in the lending ecosystem. These guidelines contribute to the overall development and regulation of the digital lending sector, promoting a robust and secure lending environment in India.

Indian Army Procures Indigenously - Tactical LAN Radio

The Indian Army has recently signed a contract with Astrome Tech Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based company, to procure the indigenously-developed tactical LAN radio. This state-of-the-art high-bandwidth backhaul wireless radio equipment aims to provide reliable communication for the armed forces, offering enhanced range and secure connectivity in critical situations.

Key Highlights

Reliable Communication for the Armed Forces:

• The primary purpose of the tactical LAN radio is to provide reliable communication for the Indian Army.
• It is designed to ensure seamless connectivity, enabling effective communication in critical situations.

State-of-the-Art Features:

• The tactical LAN radio incorporates cutting-edge features to enhance communication capabilities.
• One notable feature is the embedded frequency hopping mechanism, which helps prevent interception and ensures secure communication channels.
• The system prioritizes the confidentiality and integrity of transmitted data, boasting enhanced safety features.

Indigenously-developed Solution:

• The tactical LAN radio is developed by Astrome Tech Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based company.
• This highlights India's commitment to indigenously develop advanced communication systems for its armed forces.

High-bandwidth Backhaul Wireless Radio:

• The radio equipment offers high-bandwidth backhaul, enabling the transmission of large amounts of data quickly and reliably.
• This capability is crucial for the armed forces' communication needs, especially in modern warfare scenarios.

The procurement of the indigenously-developed tactical LAN radio by the Indian Army is a significant step in enhancing communication capabilities for the armed forces. With its state-of-the-art features, including secure communication channels and enhanced safety features, the radio equipment ensures reliable connectivity in critical situations. Developed by Astrome Tech Pvt Ltd, this indigenously-developed solution showcases India's commitment to advancing its communication systems for the defense sector. The tactical LAN radio's high-bandwidth backhaul capability enables the efficient transmission of large amounts of data, meeting the evolving communication needs of the Indian Army.

Sagar Samriddhi: Online Dredging Monitoring System for Efficient Port Operations

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has launched the 'Sagar Samriddhi' online dredging monitoring system. Developed by the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC), this state-of-the-art system aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of dredging operations in India's ports. It offers advanced capabilities and functionalities, improving project management and synergy in the monitoring process.

Key Highlights

Enhancing Dredging Operations:

• The 'Sagar Samriddhi' online dredging monitoring system aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of dredging operations in India's ports.
• It represents a substantial improvement over the previous Draft and Loading Monitor (DLM) system, offering advanced capabilities and functionalities.

Real-time Monitoring and Reporting:

• The system processes various reports, including daily dredging reports and pre- and post-dredging survey data.
• By integrating multiple input reports, it generates real-time dredging reports, facilitating efficient project management and decision-making processes.

Visualizations and Analytics:

• The 'Sagar Samriddhi' system allows for visualizations of daily and monthly progress, dredger performance, downtime monitoring, and location track data.
• These visualizations and analytics contribute to enhanced project management and performance evaluation.

National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC):

• The NTCPWC, responsible for developing the 'Sagar Samriddhi' system, was established under the Sagarmala Programme of the MoPSW.
• It focuses on research and development to optimize the marine sector in India, with capabilities in areas such as ocean modeling, coastal engineering, and autonomous platforms.

The launch of the 'Sagar Samriddhi' online dredging monitoring system by the MoPSW marks a significant step towards enhancing dredging operations in India's ports. Developed by the NTCPWC, this state-of-the-art system offers advanced capabilities and functionalities for real-time monitoring and reporting. With its visualizations and analytics, it contributes to efficient project management and performance evaluation. The NTCPWC's expertise in research and development supports the growth and optimization of the marine sector in India, ensuring the effective management of port infrastructure and waterways for sustained economic development.

Withdrawal of General Consent to CBI: Implications and State Actions

The Tamil Nadu government's decision to withdraw the general consent accorded to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct probes in the state is a significant development. This consent allows the CBI to investigate corruption cases involving central government employees without seeking specific permission for each case. Several other states in India have also withdrawn this general consent, raising important implications for the functioning of the agency.

Key Highlights

General Consent to CBI:

• The general consent accorded to the CBI facilitates the agency's seamless investigation of corruption cases involving central government employees.
• It eliminates the need to seek specific permission from the state government for each case, ensuring expedited and smooth proceedings in corruption-related investigations.

Provisions of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act:

• Under the provisions of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, the CBI is required to obtain prior permission from the concerned state government before initiating an investigation in a state.
• This provision ensures a cooperative framework between the CBI and state authorities, respecting the state's autonomy in matters of investigation and law enforcement.

Implications of Withdrawal:

• The withdrawal of general consent by states impacts the CBI's ability to independently conduct investigations in those states.
• It creates a scenario where the CBI would need to seek permission from the state government for each case, potentially leading to delays and bureaucratic hurdles in corruption investigations.

States that have Withdrawn General Consent:

• Tamil Nadu joins a growing list of states that have withdrawn the general consent accorded to the CBI. This list includes West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, Mizoram, Punjab, Telangana, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Meghalaya.
• This trend reflects states' concerns regarding the balance of power, federalism, and maintaining their autonomy in matters of investigation.

The withdrawal of general consent to the CBI by the Tamil Nadu government and several other states has significant implications for the functioning of the agency. It raises concerns about delays and bureaucratic hurdles in corruption investigations, as the CBI would need to seek permission from the state government for each case. This trend highlights the importance of maintaining a cooperative framework between the CBI and state authorities while respecting the autonomy and rights of states in matters of investigation and law enforcement.

Developing Nation Status Act: Implications for China's International Status

The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee has approved bipartisan legislation called the Developing Nation Status Act, aiming to remove China's "developing country" status in international organizations and treaties. This legislation has significant implications for China's position on the global stage and its access to certain privileges.

Key Highlights

Purpose of the Developing Nation Status Act:

• The legislation seeks to challenge China's "developing country" status and establish a US policy against granting China this status in future international agreements and organizations.
• It directs the Secretary of State to actively pursue changing China's status to that of a "developed country" in relevant agreements.

Implications for China's Position:

• China's developing country status grants it certain privileges within specific organizations and treaties, including market access, loans, and technical assistance.
• If China's status is changed to that of a "developed country," it may affect its eligibility for these privileges, potentially altering its global economic and diplomatic standing.

International Perception:

• While the United Nations and certain international organizations still consider China a developing country, the US legislation aims to challenge this perception.
• China's foreign ministry asserts that its status is not for the US to decide, emphasizing that China's position as the world's largest developing country is supported by facts and international law.

Potential Impacts:

• The legislation may impact China's participation in international agreements, negotiations, and trade relations.
• It could lead to reevaluation of China's obligations and responsibilities in various areas, including climate change, trade policies, and economic cooperation.

The Developing Nation Status Act, approved by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, seeks to remove China's developing country status in international organizations and treaties. By challenging China's privileges and urging its reclassification as a developed country, the legislation has significant implications for China's international status and access to certain benefits. While the US legislation aims to influence global perceptions, China maintains its position as a developing country based on facts and international law. The outcome of this legislation may impact China's participation in international agreements and trade relations, potentially altering its global economic and diplomatic standing.