UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 25th September 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS1/Indian Society

How does the selection works at Oscar Awards?

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

India has announced its official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy (Oscar) Awards, set to take place early next year.

About the Film Federation of India (FFI)

• The FFI serves as the principal organization representing the interests of the Indian film industry, which includes producers, distributors, and exhibitors.
• Established in 1951, the FFI aims to promote and safeguard the Indian film industry both domestically and internationally.
• It plays a crucial role in selecting India's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category.

How does the FFI make the choice?

• Submission Process:
  • The FFI invites filmmakers to submit their films for consideration.
  • To qualify, the film must be at least 40 minutes long.
  • More than 50% of the film's dialogue must be in a non-English language.
  • The film must have had a theatrical release for a minimum of seven days between November 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024.
• Jury Selection:
  • A 13-member jury is appointed by the FFI, consisting of experienced professionals from the creative industry.
  • The jury chairperson is nominated by the FFI and is responsible for overseeing the selection process.
• Screening and Voting:
  • The jury views all submitted films and engages in discussions before making a final decision through a voting process.

Why has the FFI come under criticism?

• All-Male Jury:
  • The current jury of the FFI has faced backlash for being entirely male, raising concerns about the inclusion of women, particularly since India's official entry for the 97th Oscars addresses women's issues.
• Arbitrary Process:
  • The FFI's selection method has been criticized as arbitrary, leading to calls for increased transparency and inclusiveness in the selection of films for international awards like the Oscars.

PYQ:

[2014] What do understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.

GS3/Science and Technology

Findings based on China’s Chang’e-5 Mission

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Recent findings from China's Chang’e-5 mission have sparked interest as they challenge the long-held belief that volcanic activity on the moon ceased about a billion years ago. Evidence suggests that the moon had active volcanoes as recently as 120 million years ago, based on analysis of lunar samples.

Chang’e-5 Mission: Overview and Recent Findings

• Launched in November 2020 as part of China's Chang’e lunar exploration program.
• Aimed to collect lunar samples from the moon's surface and return them to Earth for further research.
• Successfully landed in the Mons Rumker region, a volcanic complex located in the Oceanus Procellarum (known as the 'Ocean of Storms').
• Returned approximately 1.7 kg of lunar material to Earth in December 2020.

Recent Findings Based on Chang’e-5 Mission

• Studies of the samples indicate volcanic activity on the moon as recent as 116-135 million years ago.
• This finding contradicts previous theories that lunar volcanic activity had ended about a billion years ago.
• Analysis of lunar glass beads has provided crucial insights into both volcanic eruptions and asteroid impacts that have influenced the moon's surface.

What are the Beads on the Moon?

• Lunar glass beads are small, spherical or egg-shaped glass particles found on the moon’s surface.
• They are formed primarily through two processes:
  • Volcanic Activity: Occurs when molten lava is ejected during eruptions, cools rapidly in the air, and forms glass beads.
  • Impact Events: Result from asteroids or meteorites striking the moon, melting surface material due to intense heat, which then cools to form glass beads.
• These beads are significant because they:
  • Provide insights into the moon's geological history.
  • Help determine the ages of volcanic eruptions.
  • Enhance understanding of the formation processes of the moon's surface and its volcanic and impact events.

Key characteristics of Lunar Glass Beads

• Composition: Mainly consists of silicon, magnesium, and iron, with trace amounts of potassium, titanium, and uranium.
• Volcanic vs. Impact Beads:
  • Volcanic glass beads are generally more uniform in appearance.
  • Impact beads may exhibit fractures or deformations due to high-energy impacts.
  • Volcanic beads often contain more volatile elements like sulfur that are emitted during eruptions.

PYQ:

[2012] What do you understand by the term Aitken basin?
(a) It is a desert in southern Chile known to be the only location on Earth with no rainfall.
(b) It is an impact crater on the far side of the Moon.
(c) It is a Pacific coast basin known for large amounts of oil and gas.
(d) It is a deep hypersaline anoxic basin where no aquatic animals are found.

GS3/Science and Technology

India to launch its first mission to Venus in 2028

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

Recently, the Union Cabinet approved India's inaugural mission to Venus, which ISRO plans to launch in March 2028. This marks India's second interplanetary mission following the successful Mars Orbiter Mission in 2013.

• The Venus mission aims to examine the planet's surface, sub-surface, atmosphere, and ionosphere from its orbit. It will also study how Venus interacts with the Sun. The mission will carry scientific instruments from both India and other countries for this exploration.

About

India's first planned mission to Venus, named "Shukrayaan-1," is designed to investigate the planet's atmosphere, surface, and geological characteristics using advanced scientific instruments. The mission will deploy an orbiter around Venus to collect data on its climate, atmospheric makeup, and possible volcanic or seismic activity.

• The mission will utilize instruments such as synthetic aperture radar, infrared and ultraviolet cameras, and sensors to analyze Venus's ionosphere and the dense clouds of carbon dioxide and sulfuric acid.
• It aims to search for signs of active volcanic activity and provide insights into the unique environment of Venus.

Objectives

• Investigate surface processes and subsurface stratigraphy.
• Study the structure, composition, and dynamics of Venus's atmosphere.
• Explore interactions between solar wind and the Venusian ionosphere.

Key highlights of the mission

• Timeline
  • The launch of India's Venus mission, initially set for 2023, has been rescheduled to March 2028.
  • The approach of Earth to Venus occurs every 19 months, making this timeline significant for the mission.
• Payloads
  • The mission will carry approximately 100 kg of scientific payloads, following a strategy similar to India's past space missions.
  • Payloads will include experiments to study the flow of interplanetary dust particles and analyze high-energy particles entering Venus's atmosphere, which contribute to its ionization.
  • Another experiment will examine the composition, structure, variability, and thermal state of Venus's atmosphere.
  • The satellite will accelerate in Earth's orbit, using a slingshot maneuver towards Venus, reaching its orbit in around 140 days.
• India's first attempt at aero-braking
  • This mission will also represent India's first endeavor to use aero-braking, a technique that slows down the spacecraft by utilizing atmospheric drag.
  • Initially, the satellite will be placed in a highly elliptical orbit of 500 km x 60,000 km around Venus to conserve fuel.
  • This orbit is too high for scientific research, so the satellite will be gradually lowered to a more suitable orbit, such as 300 x 300 km or 200 x 600 km, using aero-braking.
  • During this adjustment, the satellite will skim the outer layer of Venus's atmosphere at about 140 km, generating drag to reduce its orbital height over six months.
  • This process demands precise control; too deep a plunge risks destroying the satellite, while too shallow could prolong the orbit adjustment.
  • Once the desired orbit is achieved, the satellite will exit Venus's atmosphere to avoid excessive fuel consumption for orbit maintenance.
• Unique opportunity to understand Earth’s evolution
  • Due to its similarities in mass, density, and size, Venus is often referred to as Earth's twin, making it a critical subject for studying Earth's evolution.
  • Scientists theorize that Venus once had water but is now a dry and dusty planet.
• Clues about climate change, atmospheric dynamics
  • The surface temperature on Venus reaches around 462°C, making it hotter than Mercury due to a runaway greenhouse effect.
  • It is believed that water on Venus evaporated, exacerbating the heat and enhancing the greenhouse effect.
  • Previously thought to have oceans, Venus has now transformed into a scorching greenhouse world with surface temperatures of up to 470°C.
  • By comparing Venus's climate with that of Earth, scientists hope to uncover insights regarding climate change, atmospheric dynamics, and planetary evolution.
  • Studying Venus may provide valuable information about Earth's future and the conditions necessary for a planet to support life.
• Technology development capabilities and scientific prowess
  • Venus presents significant challenges for study due to its extreme temperatures and dense atmosphere.
  • While Earth's atmospheric pressure is 1 bar, Venus's pressure is around 100 bars.
  • The atmosphere is composed of 96.5% carbon dioxide and contains clouds of sulfuric acid, with a slow rotation that results in one Venusian day lasting 243 Earth days.
  • Its surface temperature is approximately 462°C, exceeding that of Mercury.
  • No lander has survived the harsh conditions on Venus for longer than a few hours.
  • A successful exploration would position India among a select group of nations with advanced planetary science programs.
• Various missions
  • Several missions to Venus have been executed in the past by the United States, the former USSR, Japan, and a collaborative effort by the European Space Agency (ESA) and Japan.
  • Recently, multiple space agencies have announced upcoming missions to Venus:
    • NASA's DaVinci mission in 2029 and Veritas mission in 2031.
    • ESA's EnVision mission planned for the early 2030s.
    • Russia's Venera-D mission currently under development.
• Why the Renewed Race to Venus?
  • There is a revived global interest in Venus due to its significance in understanding planetary evolution, climate change, and the potential for life in extreme environments.
  • NASA, ESA, and Russia have all announced missions to Venus, particularly following the 2020 discovery of phosphine gas, a potential indicator of life, in Venus's atmosphere, sparking curiosity about microbial existence.
  • Venus's close proximity to Earth and its value as a comparative study make it a vital target for space exploration.
  • Beyond scientific objectives, the competition for missions to Venus promotes international collaboration and showcases space capabilities, with India's mission advancing its global aspirations alongside those of the U.S., Russia, and China.

GS2/Governance

Tripura CM declares state insurgency-free

Source: New Indian Express

Why in news?

Tripura's Chief Minister, Manik Saha, has proclaimed the state as "insurgency-free" following a significant event where 584 militants surrendered their weapons during a ceremony. The militants belonged to the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF). This milestone was achieved after a Memorandum of Settlement was signed between the Centre and the Tripura government with various insurgent factions on September 4, in the presence of the Union Home Minister. According to the CM, the state government has successfully negotiated 12 peace accords in the last decade, resulting in over 10,000 insurgents renouncing violence.

Insurgency in Tripura

Background

• Tribal Composition: Tripura is home to 19 indigenous tribes, which include the Tripra, Reang, Jamatia, Kaipeng, Naotia, Koloi, Halam, Hrangkhal, Mog, and Bangcher.
• Languages: Kok Borok serves as the lingua franca alongside various Tibeto-Burmese dialects.

Journey towards Statehood

• Initially a princely state, Tripura joined the Indian Union on October 15, 1949.
• It transitioned to a Union Territory on November 1, 1956, before becoming a full-fledged state on January 21, 1972.

Causes of Insurgency

• Demographic Shift: The influx of Bengali refugees from East Pakistan drastically reduced the indigenous population from 95% in 1931 to 31% by 1991.
• Discontent Among Tribals: As tribals became a minority, they lost access to land, trade opportunities, government positions, and business, leading to widespread grievances.
• Other factors: Tripura has faced insurgency challenges akin to those in other North-Eastern states due to geographic isolation, socio-economic issues, ineffective governance, corruption, and the alienation of tribal lands.

Political Movements and Armed Insurgency

• Formation of TUJS (1967): Tribal groups established the Tripura Upajati Juba Samiti (TUJS) to advocate for an autonomous district council under the Sixth Schedule, the official recognition of Kok Borok, and the restitution of tribal lands.
• Armed Struggle: By 1970, the Tripura Sena was formed, followed by the Tripura National Volunteers (TNV) in 1978 under Bijoy Hrangkhawl, with demands for an independent tribal state.
• Prominent groups involved in insurgency: The insurgency in Tripura began with the formation of groups in 1971, followed by developments in 1981, 1989, and 1990.

Rise of Communal Clashes and Militancy

• Bengali Opposition and Amra Bangali: The Bengali community reacted to tribal demands by forming the militant group Amra Bangali, leading to violent confrontations that resulted in over 1,800 deaths and the destruction of 3,600 homes.
• Army Intervention (1980): The military was deployed to manage the escalating violence.

Decline of TNV and Peace Efforts

• Links with MNF: The TNV had connections with the Mizo National Front (MNF), which weakened after the Mizo Accord in 1986.
• TNV Settlement (1988): The TNV signed a peace treaty with the state government, committing to disarm in exchange for the restoration of tribal lands.

Resurgence of Militancy

• Implementation Issues
  • Failures in executing the 1988 agreement led to the rise of new militant groups and a resurgence of violence in Tripura.
  • The insurgency escalated significantly from 1996 to 2004, bolstered by support from Bangladesh and external intelligence networks.
  • Insurgents exploited the difficult terrain and porous borders, using Bangladesh as a base for operations, resources, and funding.
• Strategic Response to Insurgency
  • Counter-insurgency operations: These operations emphasized swift, focused area domination without deploying the Army, relying instead on central paramilitary and state police forces, including Special Police Officers drawn from tribal communities.
  • Psychological operations: Efforts were made to alter negative perceptions of the state among tribals by exposing the insurgents' exploitation of tribal populations.
• Confidence-Building Measures
  • Programs were implemented to encourage surrenders, with public appeals from the Governor and Chief Minister to reintegrate insurgents into society.
• Civic and Developmental Interventions
  • Development initiatives were rapidly introduced, focusing on healthcare, rural infrastructure, drinking water, and job creation.
  • Security forces engaged in civic action programs, providing medical assistance, educational materials, and vocational training to foster a development-oriented image of the state.
• Political and Governance Reforms
  • Peace marches were held in areas affected by insurgency to rebuild community confidence.
  • Local governance structures, including autonomous development councils and village councils, were strengthened to enhance tribal involvement in local development.

Conclusion

• Tripura successfully addressed its insurgency challenges through a comprehensive strategy that integrated socio-economic development, psychological operations, humane counter-insurgency methods, and decisive political leadership.
• The state’s experience illustrates that insurgency can be effectively managed through sincere efforts, credible leadership, and a balanced approach that considers both military and socio-economic aspects.

GS3/Science and Technology

What are retractions and why do they matter?

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Retractions are an important aspect of scientific integrity, referring to the process by which a scientific journal retracts a previously published research paper due to significant errors or dishonest practices, such as the use of falsified data. This measure is crucial to prevent the dissemination of misleading information that could misguide further research.

• The 'Retraction Watch' database highlights concerning trends, including an Indian scientist from Lucknow with 45 retractions and a researcher from Kolkata who had six papers retracted after publishing 300 papers in a single year.

What is retraction?

• A retraction is the formal withdrawal of a research paper by a scientific journal.
• It signifies that the paper is no longer deemed trustworthy due to serious errors or misconduct.

What is retraction index?

• The retraction index measures the frequency of retractions in a specific journal.
• This index is essential for understanding the retraction rate relative to the total number of papers published.
• It is calculated by multiplying the number of retractions by 1,000 and dividing by the total papers published in a set timeframe.

What are the primary reasons for retraction?

• Plagiarism: This involves copying or failing to properly attribute another author's work.
• Fabrication/Falsification: This refers to the intentional alteration of data or experiments to produce false results.
• Image Manipulation: This is the modification of images or figures, particularly prevalent in fields like biology and medicine.
• Paper Mills: These are organizations that produce and sell low-quality or falsified papers to inflate research publication numbers.
• Ethical Violations: This includes issues like authorship disputes and undisclosed conflicts of interest.
• Errors in Data: Mistakes made during data collection or analysis that affect the validity of the findings.

How do retractions affect the credibility of scientific research?

• Erosion of Trust: Scientific integrity is heavily dependent on trust; retractions can undermine confidence in published work.
• Hindrance to Scientific Progress: They can obstruct the advancement of science, as future studies may rely on flawed or retracted research.
• Impact on Researchers’ and Institutions’ Reputation: Institutions and scientists connected to retractions often suffer damage to their credibility.
• High-Impact Journals at Greater Risk: There's a notable incidence of retractions in high-impact journals due to pressure to publish significant findings quickly.
• Harm to Public Perception: Noteworthy retractions, especially in crucial areas like medicine, can erode public trust in scientific institutions.

What is the process of retracting a paper?

• Detection: The retraction process often begins when errors or misconduct are identified, typically through peer reviews or inquiries by other researchers.
• Investigation: A thorough investigation is conducted by the journal and, in some cases, the author's institution to determine if retraction is warranted.
• Notification: After reaching a decision, the journal issues a retraction notice explaining the reasons behind the retraction.
• Publication of Retraction Notice: This notice is published within the journal and usually linked to the original article, which is marked as retracted but remains accessible for transparency.
• Database Update: Retractions are recorded in various academic databases like PubMed and Retraction Watch to keep researchers informed about flawed studies.

Way forward:

• Strengthen Peer Review and Use AI Tools: Implement advanced AI technology to enhance detection of plagiarism and data manipulation during the peer review phase.
• Shift Focus from Quantity to Quality: Encourage research institutions to prioritize the quality of research outputs over the quantity of publications to alleviate pressure on researchers.

GS2/Governance

Navigating cross-border insolvency

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

It is crucial to integrate the importance of insolvency laws into global trade discussions through both multilateral and bilateral frameworks.

Key Challenges in Managing Cross-Border Insolvency Cases

• Jurisdictional Conflicts: Determining which nation's courts have jurisdiction over insolvency proceedings is often complex, particularly when a company has assets and creditors in multiple countries.
• Recognition of Foreign Proceedings: Certain countries may refuse to acknowledge foreign insolvency proceedings, resulting in varied and inconsistent outcomes.
• Coordination Issues: A lack of collaboration between courts and administrators across borders can complicate the resolution process for cross-border insolvency cases.
• Legal and Cultural Differences: Differences in legal systems, insolvency laws, and business customs in various countries make achieving harmonization difficult.
• Enforcement of Judgments: Enforcing insolvency-related judgments or agreements in different jurisdictions presents significant challenges.

How does the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) address cross-border insolvency in India?

• Limited Provisions: The IBC, implemented in 2016, has provisions for handling cross-border insolvency on a case-by-case basis through bilateral agreements, but it does not provide a comprehensive framework.
• Bilateral Arrangements: Currently, India's strategy relies on individual bilateral agreements to manage cross-border insolvency cases, resulting in a fragmented and less efficient process.
• No Adoption of the UNCITRAL Model Law: Despite several recommendations, India has yet to embrace the UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency, which would offer a more standardized and efficient resolution mechanism.

International Frameworks for Cross-Border Insolvency Resolutions

• UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency (1997): This widely accepted framework is designed to promote cooperation among courts and administrators in various countries. It is based on four pillars: access, recognition, cooperation, and coordination. More than 60 countries have adopted this model.
• EU Insolvency Regulation: This regulation provides a framework for managing insolvency cases within EU member states, facilitating the recognition of insolvency proceedings across borders within the EU.
• NAFTA/US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA): This agreement contains provisions for addressing insolvencies with cross-border implications among member countries.
• Bilateral and Multilateral Trade Agreements: Some international agreements include limited references to cross-border insolvency, although most primarily focus on general trade and dispute resolution, thus leaving a gap in directly addressing insolvency issues.

Way Forward

• Adopt the UNCITRAL Model Law: India should prioritize the adoption of the UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency to create a standardized framework, enhancing cooperation, recognition, and legal certainty in international insolvency cases.
• Integrate Cross-Border Insolvency in Trade Agreements: It is essential for India to include provisions for cross-border insolvency in Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) to ensure smooth insolvency resolutions in international trade contexts.

GS3/Defence & Security

AH-64E Apache Helicopters

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Indian Army is preparing to receive its initial batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing in December.

About AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters

• Name and Origin: The Apache Guardian is a sophisticated multi-role combat helicopter categorized as heavy. It is manufactured by Boeing and originates from the United States.
• India’s Acquisition: In February 2020, India entered into an agreement to procure six AH-64E helicopters, with an additional six helicopters ordered later.
• Countries Operating: The Apache helicopters are utilized by several countries including India, Egypt, Israel, Japan, South Korea, the UAE, the UK, and more.
• Indigenous Production: The Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture, manufactures fuselages in Hyderabad. TBAL is expected to become the sole global producer, sourcing 90% of its parts from India.
• Combat Features: The Apache features an open architecture for advanced systems, enhanced thrust and lift capabilities, digital interoperability, improved survivability, and advanced infrared and night vision capabilities.
• Deployment Plans for Apache
  The Apache helicopters are primarily designed for armored combat and will be deployed in desert regions. However, due to their limitations in high-altitude operations, they will not be used in areas like Ladakh. Instead, the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., is set to be deployed in 2024-25 specifically for high-altitude conditions.

PYQ:

[2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

GS2/Polity

Karnataka CM to Face MUDA Scam Probe

Source: Mint

Why in News?

In a significant development for CM Siddaramaiah, the Karnataka High Court has rejected his petition that aimed to challenge the sanction provided by Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot to investigate him regarding the MUDA scam case.

Background of the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) Scam Case:

• The scandal emerged when three anti-corruption activists petitioned the governor for permission to file complaints against the Karnataka CM.
• They accused his wife of receiving 14 housing plots from MUDA in return for a 3.16-acre land parcel that MUDA allegedly acquired unlawfully in 2021 during the previous BJP-led administration.
• This alleged transaction is said to have caused a financial loss of Rs. 55.80 crore to the state.
• As a consequence, the Karnataka Governor issued a notice to the CM and approved proceedings against him under the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) 1988 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023.
• The CM contested this sanction, arguing that the Governor is obliged to act according to the advice of the Council of Ministers, while the Karnataka HC temporarily halted the trial against him.
• The crucial issue before the court revolved around Section 17A of the PCA, which outlines the necessary procedures for police seeking permission to investigate public officials.
• This raised the question of whether authorization for prosecution could be granted when a private individual is the complainant.

Ruling of the court:

• The court clarified that the PCA does not restrict approval requests for investigating public officials solely to police officers; rather, it is also the responsibility of complainants, including private citizens, to seek such permission.
• Considering the case specifics, the court deemed it essential to investigate the alleged MUDA scam and the involvement of the CM’s family.
• Thus, the governor's order was upheld, confirming that it was made with due consideration, and any claims of haste did not invalidate it.

Impact of the ruling:

• This ruling empowers the three RTI activists to approach anti-corruption bodies like the Karnataka Lokayukta police to initiate a probe into the MUDA scam case.

Effect of the HC’s Order on Karnataka Politics:

• Options before the CM:
  • Siddaramaiah, recognized as a leading figure among Backward Class leaders in Karnataka, is expected to engage in a legal battle.
  • The Congress party may take a principled stance, suggesting that the CM should resign if an FIR is filed against him.
  • For context, in 2010, the Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan was pressured by his party to resign over allegations linked to the Adarsh housing scam involving relatives.
• Political narrative favors the CM:
  • The political atmosphere is anticipated to be advantageous for the CM, who is expected to portray the situation as an abuse of power by agencies seeking to retaliate against political opponents or compel them into the BJP fold.
  • The Congress party has framed the case as part of a broader conspiracy by the principal opposition party (BJP) aimed at destabilizing non-BJP CMs nationwide through various means.

GS2/International Relations

India at the UN Futures Summit: An Advocate for Peace, Global South

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

India's diplomatic efforts are guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which translates to 'the world is one family'.

• The recent UN Summit on the Future, held on September 23, 2024, aligned with this vision through the adoption of various agreements.
• It is essential to analyze the implications of these initiatives and the challenges in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

India's Vision and Participation

• PM Modi, representing a significant portion of the global population, highlighted the importance of a human-centric development approach.
• India's advancements in SDGs, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and solar energy were emphasized by PM Modi.
• His call for global collaboration addresses modern challenges, including terrorism, cyber threats, and climate change.
• The assertion that global action must align with global ambitions calls for a proactive international response.

The Outcome of the UN Summit on the Future

• A pivotal moment for multilateralism was marked by the Pact for the Future (PFF), which includes 58 measures aimed at improving global public goods.
• Key focus areas include conflict prevention, climate action, and humanitarian responses.
• However, a lack of solidarity is impeding progress, leading to unilateral and transactional approaches in international relations.
• The summit was referred to as an unprecedented chance to rebuild trust and modernize outdated frameworks.
• Despite a strong emphasis on ambition, critics highlight the unclear mechanisms for enforcing commitments.

The Global Digital Compact: Advancing the Digital Future

• The Global Digital Compact emerged as a significant achievement, reinforcing India's commitment to closing the digital divide.
• Proposals for an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and a Global Dialogue on AI Governance underline the transformative potential of technology for SDGs.

A Detailed Analysis of Challenges to Multilateralism Highlighted at the Summit

• Geopolitical tensions are increasingly seen within the context of a multipolar world with shifting power dynamics.
• Key conflicts, such as the NATO-Ukraine situation, the West-China rivalry, and the Gaza crisis, are deepening international divisions.
• These conflicts not only exacerbate regional instability but also hinder cooperative efforts on global challenges.
• The struggle for influence between the West and China complicates negotiations, forcing countries to choose sides, which reduces unified action.
• Ineffectiveness in conflict resolution has plagued the UN, which was created to maintain global peace and security.
• Structural limitations and the political agendas of powerful member states have hindered effective mediation in crises like Syria and Yemen.
• The rise of unilateralism and a transactional approach in foreign policy has emerged as countries respond to perceived multilateral failures.
• This trend undermines collective action principles, as countries prioritize their interests over global cooperation.
• For instance, trade agreements that exclude specific nations can exacerbate inequalities and deepen global divisions.
• There is a recognized need for reform in multilateral institutions, yet tangible progress remains elusive.
• UN Security Council (UNSC) reform, aimed at enhancing representation and accountability, has stalled due to divergent interests of permanent members.
• While there is agreement on the need for reform, especially for greater representation of developing countries, a clear path forward is lacking, leading to frustration.

The Role of India in Promoting Peace and Security

• India advocates for a collective security framework, emphasizing shared responsibilities for peace and security among nations.
• This commitment is rooted in India's post-colonial ethos and its ambition to lead in the Global South.
• By promoting multilateralism, India prioritizes dialogue and cooperation over conflict and unilateralism.
• India has actively contributed to UN peacekeeping missions, deploying troops to various conflict zones globally.

Promoting Regional Stability

• Due to its geopolitical position in South Asia, India plays a crucial role in regional stability efforts.
• India is dedicated to addressing conflicts, particularly in relation to Pakistan and China, through dialogue and diplomacy.
• By focusing on diplomacy and economic integration, India aims to reduce tensions and foster a more stable regional environment.

Combating Terrorism

• India's approach to international security is heavily influenced by its long-standing battle against terrorism.
• At the UN Summit on the Future, India reiterated its commitment to a world free from terrorism.
• India called for revitalizing international conventions against terrorist activities and highlighted the importance of a comprehensive legal framework to combat terrorism.
• This underscores India’s dedication to addressing the root causes of extremism and enhancing global cooperation in intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts.

Diplomatic Engagement and Global Governance

• India's commitment to peace and security is evident in its active participation in international forums such as G20 and BRICS.
• India’s recent G20 presidency allowed it to emphasize the need for global governance reforms that reflect current realities.
• This includes advocating for greater representation for developing countries in decision-making processes.

Leadership in Climate Security

• India's proactive approach to climate action is demonstrated through its leadership in the International Solar Alliance and commitment to the Paris Agreement.
• India understands the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability and global security.
• By advocating for climate justice and sustainable development, India positions itself as a leader in addressing the security implications of climate change.

Conclusion

• The UN Summit on the Future has established a framework for collective action toward a more equitable and sustainable global order.
• While the aspirations outlined in the summit's outcome document are steps in the right direction, achieving these goals will require nations to move beyond narrow national interests.
• The Sanskrit adage, Yad Bhavam, Tad Bhavati, meaning 'you become what you believe', serves as an inspirational principle for this collective effort.

GS3/Economy

Spices Board targets exports of $25 billion by 2047

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Spices Board of India has set an ambitious target to reach annual exports of spices and spice-based products, aiming for a significant increase from the current $4.4 billion. The current total consumption of spices in India stands at 10 million tonnes, with 1.42 million tonnes being exported each year. By 2047, the Board aims to increase this export volume to 2.7 million tonnes.

About the Spices Board:

• The merger of the former Cardamom Board and the Spices Export Promotion Council on February 26, 1987, under the Spices Board Act of 1986, led to the establishment of the Spices Board of India.
• The Board acts as an international link connecting Indian exporters with overseas importers, reporting to the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
• It is chaired by an individual with a rank equivalent to a Joint Secretary in the Government of India.
• The headquarters is located in Kochi, and there are regional laboratories in cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Tuticorin, Kandla, and Guntur.

Main Functions:

• The Board promotes organic production, processing, and certification of spices.
• It is responsible for the overall development of the spice sector.
• Focuses on post-harvest improvement programs aimed at enhancing the quality of 52 scheduled spices for export.
• These initiatives fall under the 'Export Oriented Production' category.

Present Scenario of Spices Production:

• Major producing states include Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
• During the fiscal year 2022-23, India's spice exports amounted to $3.73 billion, an increase from $3.46 billion in 2021-22.
• India is responsible for producing about 75 of the 109 varieties recognized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Major Produced and Exported Spices by India:

• Key spices include pepper, cardamom, chili, ginger, turmeric, coriander, cumin, celery, fennel, fenugreek, garlic, nutmeg & mace, curry powder, and spice oils/oleoresins.
• Chili, cumin, turmeric, and ginger together account for approximately 76% of total spice production.
• Chili is the leading export commodity, generating $1.1 billion annually.
• Ginger exports have shown a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27%.

Export Overview:

• In the fiscal year 2023-24, India's spice exports reached $4.25 billion, representing a 12% share of global spice exports (as per February 2024 data).
• Spices and spice products were exported to 159 destinations worldwide as of 2023-24.
• The top export destinations include China, the USA, Bangladesh, the UAE, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the UK, and Sri Lanka, which collectively account for over 70% of total exports.

PYQ:

[2019] Among the agricultural commodities imported by India, which one of the following accounts for the highest imports in terms of value in the last five years?
(a) Spices
(b) Fresh fruits
(c) Pulses
(d) Vegetable oils

GS3/Economy

Government Survey Reveals Unchanged Unemployment Rate Despite Sectoral Shifts

Source: PIB

Why in news?

The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for July 2023 to June 2024, released in September 2024, shows no significant change in the unemployment rate. There is a slight increase in the share of workers in agriculture, while the manufacturing sector shows no growth in job creation.

What is Unemployment?

Unemployment is defined as a situation in which individuals who are capable of working, are actively seeking jobs, and are willing to accept prevailing wages are unable to find employment. It serves as a critical indicator of a country's economic health, reflecting economic activity, productivity levels, and overall social well-being.

Types of Unemployment:

• Cyclical Unemployment: This type occurs due to fluctuations in the economic cycle. During periods of economic downturn, the demand for goods and services decreases, leading to job losses.
• Structural Unemployment: This form arises when there is a mismatch between the skills possessed by the workforce and the needs of the industry. Technological advancements often contribute to structural unemployment.
• Frictional Unemployment: This is a temporary form of unemployment that occurs when individuals are transitioning between jobs, entering the workforce for the first time, or re-entering it after a break.
• Seasonal Unemployment: Certain sectors, such as agriculture or tourism, experience fluctuations in employment levels due to seasonal changes in demand.
• Disguised Unemployment: This occurs when more individuals are employed than necessary, particularly in agriculture where productivity can be low even with a high number of workers.

Measuring Unemployment in India:

The Government of India utilizes various methods and surveys to gauge unemployment rates. Key agencies involved include the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), and the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE).

National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) Surveys:

• Usual Principal and Subsidiary Status (UPSS): This classification measures an individual's principal employment status based on the activity they engaged in most during the previous year. An individual can also be counted as employed if they worked in a subsidiary role for at least 30 days within that year.
• Current Weekly Status (CWS): This method uses a shorter reference period of one week, where an individual is considered employed if they worked for at least one hour on any day in the week preceding the survey. As a result, unemployment rates under CWS are usually higher than those under UPSS.

Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE):

The CMIE is an independent entity functioning both as an economic think-tank and a business information firm. It provides up-to-date data on unemployment trends through its Consumer Pyramids Household Survey (CPHS), which is regularly updated to reflect employment conditions.

Key Unemployment Indicators Used in India:

• Unemployment Rate (UR): This measures the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking work.
• Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR): This indicates the percentage of the working-age population that is either employed or actively looking for employment.
• Worker Population Ratio (WPR): This represents the proportion of the working-age population that is currently employed.

Challenges in Measuring Unemployment in India:

• Informal Sector Dominance: A significant portion of India’s workforce is engaged in the informal sector, complicating the collection of accurate employment data.
• Underemployment and Disguised Unemployment: Many employed individuals work below their skill levels or in low-productivity roles, obscuring the true extent of unemployment.
• Data Frequency and Timeliness: There can be delays in data collection and reporting, hindering the ability to obtain a real-time view of unemployment levels.

Government Survey Reveals Unchanged Unemployment Rate Despite Sectoral Shifts:

The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for July 2023 to June 2024, released by the Labour Bureau, reveals that the unemployment rate in India remains unchanged, with no notable improvement in job creation, particularly within the manufacturing sector. While there has been a slight increase in the workforce distribution in agriculture, the manufacturing sector continues to struggle with generating new jobs.

• The Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) has seen an increase, rising from 50.7% in 2017-18 to 63.7% in rural areas, and from 47.6% to 52.0% in urban areas.
• Female participation has significantly improved, with the LFPR for women increasing from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24.
• However, experts caution that this rise in employment is largely attributed to unpaid family labor in agriculture, which has been on the rise for the fourth consecutive year.
• Despite the uptick in participation, the unemployment rate remains a concern, with rural unemployment decreasing from 5.3% in 2017-18 to 2.5%, and urban unemployment falling from 7.7% to 5.1%. Overall, the unemployment rate remains stable at 3.2%, similar to the previous year.
• Experts warn that the employment landscape remains bleak, particularly due to the lack of job growth in vital sectors such as manufacturing, which has not shown significant recovery over the last decade.