Weekly Current Affairs (8th to 14th September 2024) Part - 2 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

GS3/Economy

Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India Pipeline

Why in News?

• Afghanistan is set to begin work on the long-awaited Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline, a landmark USD 10 billion project that promises to enhance regional energy connectivity and drive economic development. This development comes after years of delays primarily due to security concerns in Afghanistan.

What is the TAPI Pipeline?

• The TAPI pipeline is a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at transporting natural gas from the Galkynysh gas field in Turkmenistan through Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.
• The pipeline will stretch approximately 1,814 kilometers and is projected to deliver around 33 billion cubic meters (BCM) of natural gas annually.
• Gas distribution is planned as follows: Afghanistan (5%), Pakistan (47.5%), and India (47.5%) over its 30-year operational lifespan.
• Referred to as the 'Peace Pipeline', it holds potential for fostering regional cooperation and stability.
• The project traces its origins back to the 1990s, with notable progress in 2003, backed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
• India's involvement began in 2008, marking a pivotal development in the pipeline's progress.
• TAPI Pipeline Company Limited (TPCL) oversees the construction and operation, formed as a joint venture among Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.

Significance

Environmental Impact

• The pipeline provides a crucial alternative to coal, helping to reduce carbon dioxide emissions compared to coal-fired power generation.
• For India, which heavily relies on coal, TAPI could facilitate a shift towards cleaner energy sources and assist in achieving its net-zero emissions targets.
• It may also help mitigate air pollution in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Karachi, and Islamabad by offering a cleaner energy alternative.

Economic Benefits

• The pipeline is expected to generate economic growth opportunities in Afghanistan and Pakistan through transit fees and job creation.
• It could also stimulate investments in renewable energy sources within these countries.

Strategic Influence

• TAPI plays a vital role in the geopolitical dynamics of Central Asia, viewed by the US as a strategic counter to the Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) pipeline, which is supported by Iran and Russia.
• For Turkmenistan, TAPI offers a chance to diversify export markets and lessen reliance on existing routes to China and Russia.
• China's investment in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) underscores the competitive nature of regional energy infrastructure projects.
• The TAPI pipeline could counterbalance Chinese influence in Pakistan.
• It is poised to enhance cooperation among Central and South Asian nations, potentially leading to collaborative efforts in energy, communication, and transportation.
• For India, the pipeline strengthens ties with Turkmenistan, establishing it as a critical energy partner and aligning with India's broader strategy to improve regional connectivity and energy security.

What are the Challenges Regarding the TAPI Pipeline?

Security Concerns:

• Most of the pipeline will pass through Afghanistan, an area characterized by political instability and humanitarian crises.
• Ensuring the project's smooth implementation has been a persistent challenge.

Financing and Administration:

• Securing adequate funding remains a significant obstacle.
• The Asian Development Fund is anticipated to contribute a small portion, while the remainder must be sourced from private investors.
• The management of the pipeline is complicated by the involvement of four distinct pipeline companies, one from each participating country.

Investment Climate:

• Turkmenistan's closed economy and limited global market integration are substantial barriers to attracting investment.
• Corruption and governance challenges further complicate the investment landscape.

India’s Conflicts with Pakistan:

• India's ongoing conflicts with Pakistan raise doubts regarding its long-term commitment to the TAPI pipeline.
• Political tensions between the two nations could disrupt cooperation and the project's smooth functioning.

Environmental Concerns:

• While natural gas is cleaner than coal, it still poses environmental risks, including water and soil pollution, and potential earthquakes associated with fracking.

Way Forward

• Explore alternative funding sources beyond the Asian Development Fund, including private sector investments and international financial institutions.
• Offer tax breaks, subsidies, and incentives to attract foreign investment.
• Establish clear and stable regulatory frameworks to enhance investor confidence.
• Promote industrial development along the pipeline route to create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and diversify regional economies.
• Enhance regional security cooperation to address mutual concerns and ensure pipeline safety.
• Set up a central coordinating body to streamline decision-making and management of the project.
• Foster positive relationships with local communities along the pipeline route to secure their support and minimize security risks.
• Implement best practices for natural gas extraction and transportation to mitigate environmental impacts and prevent pollution.

Mains Question:

Q. Analyse the significance of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline. How does the pipeline impact India’s energy security and regional influence?

GS1/History & Culture

Journey of Sanchi Stupa to Europe

Why in News?

• Recently, India’s External Affairs Minister visited the replica of the East Gate of Sanchi Stupa, which is located in front of the Humboldt Forum museum in Berlin, Germany. This replica is a 1:1 reproduction of the original structure, standing nearly 10 meters high, 6 meters wide, and weighing around 150 tonnes.

Key Facts about the Sanchi Stupa

Construction of Sanchi Stupa:

• Built by Ashoka in the 3rd century BC.
• Oversaw by Ashoka’s wife, Devi, from the nearby town of Vidisha.
• Developed with support from Vidisha’s mercantile community.

Expansion:

• Enlarged in the 2nd century BC during the Shunga period, adding sandstone slabs, a circumambulatory walkway, and a harmika with a chattra (umbrella).
• From the 1st century BC to the 2nd century AD, four stone gateways (toranas) were added, featuring intricate carvings of Buddhist iconography and narratives.

Rediscovery of Sanchi Stupa:

• Discovered in ruins by British officer Henry Taylor in 1818.
• Alexander Cunningham conducted the first formal survey and excavations in 1851.

Preservation Efforts:

• In 1853, Sikander Begum of Bhopal proposed sending Sanchi gateways to Queen Victoria, but plans were delayed due to the 1857 revolt.
• In 1868, the Begum renewed the offer, but colonial authorities opted for in-situ preservation, creating a plaster cast of the eastern gateway instead.
• The site was restored in the 1910s by ASI director-general John Marshall, with funding from the begums of Bhopal, and a museum was established in 1919 to manage conservation.

Architecture of Sanchi Stupa:

• Anda: A hemispherical mound constructed from earth.
• Harmika: A square railing atop the mound, believed to house a deity.
• Chattra: A structure on top of the dome.
• Yashti: A central pillar supporting the triple umbrella structure (chattra).
• Railing: Surrounds the stupa, delineating the sacred space from the outer environment.
• Pradakshinapatha (Circumambulatory Path): A walkway allowing devotees to circumambulate the stupa clockwise as an act of worship.
• Torana: A monumental gateway in Buddhist stupa architecture.
• Medhi: The base that serves as a platform for the stupa's main structure.

UNESCO Recognition:

• Sanchi Stupa was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989.

Key Features of the Gateways of Sanchi Stupa

Construction:

• Four gateways (toranas) facing the four cardinal directions were constructed in the 1st century BCE during the Satavahana dynasty.

Structure:

• Built with two square pillars supporting a superstructure of three curved architraves decorated with spirally-rolled ends.

Engravings:

• Pillars and architraves feature relief sculptures depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life, Jataka tales, and various Buddhist symbols, including shalabhanjika (fertility emblem), elephants, winged lions, and peacocks.
• The gates do not portray the Buddha in human form.

Philosophical Significance:

• Upper Architrave: Represents the seven Manushi Buddhas, or previous incarnations of the Buddha.
• Middle Architrave: Illustrates the Great Departure, depicting Prince Siddhartha leaving Kapilavastu to become an ascetic in search of enlightenment.
• Lower Architrave: Shows Emperor Ashoka visiting the Bodhi tree, where the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Conclusion

• The Sanchi Stupa is a monumental representation of ancient Buddhist architecture and devotion. It continues to evoke reverence and academic interest, connecting the historical past with contemporary global appreciation. Recent developments, such as the replica of the East Gate of Sanchi Stupa in Germany, highlight the universal importance of preserving such historical sites.

Mains Question:

• Q. Discuss the architectural evolution and historical significance of the Sanchi Stupa.

GS3/Environment

International Cooperation on Green Hydrogen

Why in news?

• Recently, the Prime Minister (PM) virtually addressed the second International Conference on Green Hydrogen 2024 (ICGH-2024) being held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The PM emphasised the need for international cooperation to scale up green hydrogen production, reduce costs, and promote research and development.

Key Highlights of ICGH-2024

Counting India’s Achievements:

• India is among the first G20 nations to meet its Paris commitments on green energy, achieving its goals 9 years ahead of the 2030 target.
• The country pledged to expand non-fossil energy capacity to 500 GW and reduce total carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030.
• Installed non-fossil fuel capacity in India has surged by nearly 300% over the last decade.

Emerging Importance of Green Hydrogen:

• Green Hydrogen is recognized as vital in the global energy framework, particularly for decarbonizing hard-to-electrify sectors such as refineries, fertilizers, steel production, and heavy-duty transport.
• It also acts as a storage solution for surplus renewable energy.

Investment in Research:

• The conference advocated for increased investment in innovative research and development, fostering partnerships between industry and academia.
• Start-ups and entrepreneurs in the Green Hydrogen sector were encouraged to take a leading role.

G20 Summit Insights:

• The PM highlighted the New Delhi G-20 Leaders’ declaration, which established five high-level voluntary principles on Hydrogen to assist in crafting a cohesive roadmap.

Critical Questions:

• Discussions focused on improving electrolyser efficiency, utilizing seawater and municipal wastewater for production, and exploring the role of Green Hydrogen in public transport, shipping, and waterways.

Why International Cooperation is Needed in Promotion of Green Hydrogen?

High Production Costs:

• The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that the cost of producing Green Hydrogen can vary from USD 3 to USD 8 per kilogram, significantly more than grey hydrogen derived from fossil fuels.

Technology and Infrastructure Investment:

• The cost of alkaline electrolysers dropped by 40% between 2014 and 2019; however, further reductions are necessary for Green Hydrogen to be competitive.

Electrolysis Costs:

• Green hydrogen is generated through electrolysis, which consumes considerable amounts of electricity; as of 2023, production costs remain high compared to traditional hydrogen.

Efficiency of Electrolyzers:

• According to India's Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, current electrolyzers lack the efficiency required for widespread adoption, necessitating further research and development.

Resource Availability:

• The European Commission notes that the availability of rare materials for electrolyzers and fuel cells poses a significant challenge, as the demand for metals like platinum and iridium limits the scalability of Green Hydrogen technologies.

Scaling Up Production:

• Meeting global demand for Green Hydrogen production presents a significant challenge, as indicated by the EU's Hydrogen Roadmap, which emphasizes coordinated efforts across industries and governments.

How can International Cooperation Help in Promotion of Green Hydrogen?

• An estimate from a recent Hydrogen Council report suggests that Asia will need USD 90 billion in investment for hydrogen projects by 2030.

Joint Ventures:

• Collaborative international efforts can significantly expedite the scaling of Green Hydrogen production technologies by leveraging diverse technological capabilities and manufacturing resources.

Economies of Scale:

• Joint international initiatives can lower costs through shared investments and bulk purchasing of materials, exemplified by the “HyDeal Ambition” project, which aims to provide 100% green hydrogen across Europe at a target cost of Euro 1.5/kg.

Shared Infrastructure:

• Utilizing shared infrastructure for the production, storage, and distribution of green hydrogen can reduce investment costs and enhance economic viability, as seen in collaborative projects like the Asia-Pacific Hydrogen Association's regional networks.

Innovation Through Partnerships:

• Global partnerships foster innovation by combining diverse research perspectives and funding sources, with the Global Hydrogen Coalition serving as a leading example of collaboration among governments, industry leaders, and research institutions.

Unified Policies and Regulations:

• International cooperation aids in the development of cohesive policies and regulations that promote green hydrogen. The 2023 G20 Summit under India's presidency adopted voluntary principles for green hydrogen, facilitating a unified roadmap.

Investment and Funding:

• Joint funding initiatives and international investments can accelerate research and deployment, as seen in various hydrogen projects under Horizon Europe, the EU’s Research and Innovation Framework Programme, managed by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership (2021-2027).

Conclusion:

• International cooperation is crucial for advancing green hydrogen. By sharing technology, harmonizing policies, and pooling investments, countries can overcome production and infrastructure barriers.
• Collaborative efforts ensure efficient global supply chains, reduce costs, and promote public acceptance, ultimately accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future and maximizing the potential of green hydrogen.

Mains Question:

• Q. How can international cooperation contribute to the promotion and development of green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source?

GS3/Economy

India's Push for Reducing Cross-Border Remittance Costs at WTO

Why in news?

• India has presented a proposal during the World Trade Organization's (WTO) 13th Ministerial Conference 2024 in Abu Dhabi, aimed at reducing the costs associated with cross-border remittances. This initiative has garnered support from countries such as Morocco and Vietnam but has also encountered opposition from some WTO members, illustrating the complexities of achieving a global consensus on this vital issue.

What is India's Proposal About Costs of Cross-border Remittances?

• India's draft proposal, submitted in March 2024, seeks to lower the global average cost for sending remittances, which currently exceeds the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of 3% by more than double.
• The proposal highlights that digital remittances, averaging a cost of 4.84%, are significantly more affordable and should be encouraged.
• India aims to initiate a work program to develop concrete strategies for reducing remittance costs.

India's Need for Remittance Cost Cut:

• In 2023, India ranked highest globally in remittance inflows, receiving USD 125 billion.
• Cutting remittance costs could potentially enhance the flow of funds, as India incurred around USD 7-8 billion in remittance fees that year.
• Lowering these costs will likely reduce reliance on hawala, a traditional informal money transfer system.

Support and Challenges:

• Countries like Morocco and Vietnam support India's initiative, acknowledging the significance of lowering remittance costs.
• Conversely, nations such as the US and Switzerland have expressed concerns, fearing a negative impact on their financial institutions' revenue from remittance fees.

What are the Benefits from a Remittance Cost Cut?

• Global Indian Diaspora: Lower remittance costs ensure that more funds reach the sender’s family and less is taken by intermediaries.
• Benefit to Indian MSMEs: Decreasing foreign exchange costs can enhance the competitiveness of Indian goods and services, resulting in improved profit margins.
• Domestic Economy and UPI Transactions: Reduced remittance costs can marginally fortify the domestic currency and enhance consumer spending patterns, while potentially expanding the reach of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in international markets.
• Financial Inclusion: Lower remittance costs can facilitate access to financial services for marginalized communities, fostering greater financial inclusion and addressing inequality, especially as 78% of remittance flows in 2023 went to Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
• Bridging Socio-Economic Disparities: Reducing transaction costs ensures that a larger proportion of remittances reaches those in need, assisting in economic development and supporting increased savings and investments in home countries.

Way Forward:

• The WTO Deputy Director-General has stressed the importance of raising awareness and outreach to build broader support for remittance cost reduction.
• Collaboration with international organizations such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Bank is essential.
• Encouraging interoperability among various digital remittance platforms will facilitate seamless cross-border transactions.
• Digital channels, including UPI, offer cost savings compared to traditional methods.
• Promoting regulatory harmonization among countries can lower barriers and ease cross-border remittance processes.

Mains Question:

Analyse the impact of remittance costs on developing economies. How does India's proposal to the World Trade Organization aim to address this issue?

GS2/Polity

Restatement of Values of Judicial Life

Why in news?

• The recent visit of the Prime Minister of India to the Chief Justice of India (CJI) residence has sparked controversy, particularly in the context of the "Restatement of Values of Judicial Life" adopted by the Supreme Court in 1997.

What is Restatement of Values of Judicial Life?

'Restatement of Values of Judicial Life' is a code of judicial ethics established by the Supreme Court. It serves as a framework for maintaining an independent and fair judiciary, ensuring that justice is administered impartially.

The Code Comprises 16 Points:

• Justice must not only be done, but it must also be perceived to be done. Judges should refrain from actions that could undermine public confidence in the impartiality of the judiciary.
• Any act by a judge, whether in an official or personal capacity, that damages the credibility of the judiciary should be avoided.
• A judge should not run for election to any position in clubs, societies, or associations, except for those related to the legal profession.
• Judges should avoid close associations with individual members of the bar, especially those practicing in their court.
• A judge must not allow immediate family members or close relatives who are lawyers to appear before them in cases they are presiding over.
• No family member of a judge should use the judge's residence or facilities for professional activities.
• A judge should maintain a degree of aloofness consistent with the dignity of their position.
• A judge must recuse themselves from cases involving family members, close relations, or friends.
• Judges should abstain from public debates or expressing political opinions on matters pending judicial resolution.
• Judicial judgments should speak for themselves; judges should refrain from giving media interviews.
• Judges must not accept gifts or hospitality except from family, close relatives, and friends.
• A judge should not preside over cases involving companies in which they hold shares unless their interest is disclosed and no objection is raised.
• Judges are prohibited from speculating in stocks or similar investments.
• Judges should not engage in trade or business activities, directly or indirectly, though publishing legal work or engaging in hobbies is allowed.
• Judges must not solicit, accept, or participate in fundraising for any purpose.
• Judges should not seek financial benefits or privileges tied to their positions unless clearly stated as permissible.
• Any uncertainties regarding this matter should be clarified through the Chief Justice.
• Judges must remain aware that they are under public scrutiny and should avoid any conduct that is unbecoming of their esteemed position.

What are the Other Major Concerns About Judicial Integrity in India?

Political Ambitions of Judges:

• Judges resigning to enter politics raises concerns about their commitment to the Constitution and the impartiality of their judgments.
• Former Supreme Court judges accepting high-profile political roles shortly after retirement leads to allegations of favoritism and quid pro quo arrangements.

Transparency Issues:

• The lack of transparency in handling significant cases diminishes public trust in the judicial process.

Conflict of Interest:

• Judges must avoid conflicts of interest to uphold judicial integrity. Involvement in political activities post-judgment can create perceptions of bias.

Public Trust and Confidence:

• The judiciary relies on public trust to function effectively. Actions undermining judicial integrity erode this trust.

Way Forward

• Reinforce adherence to the 'Restatement of Values of Judicial Life' and the Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct through mandatory training and refresher courses for judges.
• Establish independent bodies to audit and review judicial conduct and adherence to ethical standards regularly.
• Utilize the Global Judicial Integrity Network to strengthen judicial integrity and combat corruption in line with the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
• Encourage public engagement through forums or discussions that allow citizens to understand judicial functions and decisions better.
• Implement cooling-off periods for judges entering politics and require full disclosure of any past judicial rulings that may be relevant.
• Set clear guidelines for judges accepting post-retirement roles to ensure they do not compromise judicial integrity or suggest favoritism.

Mains Question:

Q. Discuss the 'Restatement of Values of Judicial Life' adopted by the Supreme Court of India. How does it aim to maintain the integrity and independence of the judiciary?

GS2/Governance

Inquiry Wing of Lokpal

Why in News?

• Recently, the Lokpal has established an inquiry wing to carry out preliminary investigations into corruption-related offenses committed by public servants.

Key Highlights of the Inquiry Wing of Lokpal

• Legal Backing: The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, under Section 11, requires the Lokpal to set up an inquiry wing tasked with conducting preliminary inquiries into offenses under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, committed by specific public servants.
• Organisational Structure: The inquiry wing will be headed by a Director of Inquiry, who will report to the Chairperson of the Lokpal. The director will be supported by three Superintendents of Police (SPs)—one each for general inquiries, economic and banking matters, and cyber-related issues. Each SP will have inquiry officers and additional staff for support.
• Preliminary Inquiry Timeline and Reporting: The inquiry wing is required to complete its preliminary inquiries and submit a report to the Lokpal within 60 days. This report must include input from the public servant involved and the relevant competent authority.

Need for the Inquiry Wing of Lokpal:

• Effective Preliminary Inquiries: The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) highlights the importance of an independent authority like the Inquiry Wing of Lokpal for carrying out preliminary inquiries into corruption allegations.
• Independence in Anti-Corruption Investigations: The autonomous nature of the Inquiry Wing is expected to alleviate concerns of bias in politically sensitive investigations typically handled by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
• Strengthening Accountability and Public Trust: This initiative aligns with the recommendations of the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), which emphasized enhancing anti-corruption institutions and improving coordination among various investigative and prosecuting agencies.
• Addressing Global Concerns on Corruption: International corruption indices, including those from Transparency International, have underscored the necessity of robust, independent institutions to combat corruption. The Lokpal's Inquiry Wing is viewed as a response to global calls for improved transparency and governance in India.
• Filling Gaps in the Current Anti-Corruption Framework: The 2011 Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report identified shortcomings in India's existing anti-corruption mechanisms. The Inquiry Wing aims to fill these gaps by providing a specialized inquiry mechanism, insulated from administrative and political pressures.

Key Facts About Lokpal:

• About: The Lokpal is the first institution of its kind in independent India, established to counter corruption among public officials under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
• Composition: The Lokpal is made up of a Chairperson and eight members, with a minimum of 50% being judicial members. The Chairperson and members are appointed by the President of India for a term of five years or until the age of 70, whichever comes first.
• Salary and Benefits: The Chairperson's compensation is equivalent to that of the Chief Justice of India, while members receive benefits similar to those of Supreme Court judges.
• Operational Structure: The Lokpal operates through two main branches: the Administrative Branch, led by a Secretary-level officer, and the Judicial Branch, headed by a judicial officer of an appropriate rank.
• Jurisdiction: The Lokpal is authorized to investigate corruption allegations against a wide range of public officials, including the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials across various government groups.
• Proceedings: Upon receiving a complaint, the Lokpal may direct its Inquiry Wing to investigate or refer the case to agencies like the CBI or CVC. The CVC is responsible for reporting back to the Lokpal for officials in Groups A and B and for taking action under the CVC Act, 2003, for Groups C and D.
• Function: The Lokpal operates as an "ombudsman," investigating complaints of corruption against specific public officials, akin to an official who reviews grievances against public entities.

Challenges in Functioning of Lokpal:

• Delay in Establishing Supporting Infrastructure: The Lokpal Act mandates separate Inquiry and Prosecution Wings. While the Inquiry Wing has been formed after a decade, the Prosecution Wing is still pending establishment.
• Exclusion Clause: According to Section 14 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, State Government employees are excluded from Lokpal's jurisdiction unless they have worked in connection with Union affairs.
• Lack of Clarity in Powers Over the CBI: Although the Lokpal has supervisory authority over cases it refers to the CBI, there are uncertainties regarding the extent of this power, particularly concerning investigations of high-ranking officials.
• Shortage of Personnel: As of 2024, the Lokpal is operating with vacancies in crucial positions, including one judicial and one non-judicial member, which hampers its effectiveness.
• Dependence on External Agencies: The Lokpal relies significantly on external agencies like the CBI and police for conducting investigations, raising concerns about its independence.
• No Comprehensive Oversight Mechanism: While empowered to investigate high-level corruption, the Lokpal lacks a dedicated oversight mechanism to monitor its own operations.

Way Forward

• Expedite Formation of Supporting Wings: The government should prioritize the quick constitution of the Prosecution Wing by filling all vacancies, including the Director of Inquiry and Director of Prosecution roles.
• Clarify Relations with CBI and Other Agencies: It is essential to define the Lokpal's supervisory powers and establish coordination mechanisms with the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
• Adopt Best Practices from Global Standards: India should implement best practices from countries with effective whistleblower protection laws, aligning with the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), to encourage reporting of corruption without fear.
• Implement Recommendations from Committees: The government should actively consider and act on recommendations from various committees to enhance the Lokpal's accountability and operational efficiency.

Mains Question:

Discuss the salient features of Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. What are the challenges involved in the functioning of Lokpal? Suggest measures to tackle these challenges.