Weekly Current Affairs 22nd to 31st October 2024 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

What is Shadow Fleet?

The term "shadow fleet" has gained attention in discussions about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. It refers to tanker ships transporting Russian crude oil to various countries, often in violation of sanctions. Western media has implicated India as a hub for this shadow fleet, suggesting its role in facilitating the laundering of Russian oil. 

• About Sanctions: Sanctions are measures imposed by countries to restrict trade and financial transactions with targeted nations. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Russia, particularly concerning its oil exports. These sanctions include a price cap, allowing Russia to sell oil only at $60 per barrel. However, market prices often exceed this limit, enabling Russia to gain more revenue than intended. 
• Global Shipping Structure: The global shipping industry is complex and diverse. Greek owners dominate with 20% of the fleet, while China has surpassed Japan in ownership. Most vessels are built in China, Japan, and South Korea, but marine insurance and regulations are largely centred in the U.K. and Europe. This structure complicates the enforcement of sanctions. 
• Flag States and Ownership: Ships are registered under flag states, which indicate their country of origin. However, to evade sanctions, vessels often switch flags. Flags of Convenience (FoCs), like Panama and Liberia, allow ship owners to obscure their identity and avoid strict scrutiny. This practice complicates tracking the true ownership of vessels. 
• Insurance in Shipping: Marine insurance is crucial for ship operations. Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance covers loss and damage at sea. P&I clubs, primarily based in London, pool risks among members. Ships found breaching sanctions risk losing their P&I coverage, which can severely impact operations. Ship owners may change the management of their vessels to maintain insurance. For example, a Turkish ship trading Russian oil could switch to a European manager to retain P&I coverage. This allows the same owner to operate under a different management structure, effectively bypassing sanctions. 
• Shell Companies and Complex Ownership: Many corporations use shell companies to obscure ownership of vessels. These entities may own only one or two ships, complicating the identification of the actual owner. Additionally, some ships are registered in jurisdictions that do not comply with international regulations, such as Eswatini, which has become a new FoC. 
• India’s Involvement: Following the sanctions, several Russian ships formed partnerships with Indian firms. Many shifted operations to Dubai, where the Indian shipping presence is strong. The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) reported an uptick in vessel certifications, raising suspicions of Indian involvement in the shadow fleet. 
• Challenges in Sanction Enforcement: Experts indicate that enforcing sanctions on Russian oil is challenging. The intricate nature of the shipping industry, coupled with obscure ownership structures, makes it difficult to track compliance. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential economic impact of strict enforcement on global markets. 
• Recent Actions by the U.K.: The U.K. has taken limited action against companies violating the price cap on Russian oil. Reports suggest that only mild measures were implemented against 35 companies. Industry voices argue that stringent actions could harm U.K. businesses, highlighting the tension between regulatory compliance and economic interests. 

India-Singapore Joint Military Training Exercise 2024

Background: The  Indian Air Force (IAF)  and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) have a history of collaboration through the Joint Military Training (JMT) exercise, which was established to enhance defence cooperation between the two nations. 

Purpose of the Exercise: The JMT exercise aims to improve various aspects of air force operations, including: 

• Advanced Air Combat Simulations: Engaging in realistic combat scenarios to prepare forces for actual conflicts. 
• Joint Mission Planning: Collaborating on effective mission planning to ensure success in operations. 
• Debriefing Sessions: Analyzing performance after missions to learn from experiences and improve future operations. 

Enhancing Interoperability: Interoperability is crucial for joint operations, and the exercise aims to: 

• Improve coordination between the IAF and RSAF. 
• Ensure seamless collaboration in future missions. 
• Sharpen combat readiness through shared training experiences. 

Participation Details: The exercise features significant participation from both air forces: 

• Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF): Sending its largest contingent ever, including: 
• Aircrew from F-16 and F-15 squadrons. 
• G-550 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. 
• C-130 transport aircraft. 
• Indian Air Force (IAF): Contributing a diverse fleet, including: 
• Rafale and Mirage 2000 ITI fighters. 
• Su-30 MKI, Tejas, MiG-29, and Jaguar aircraft. 

Recent Developments: The current exercise follows the RSAF's participation in Ex-Tarang Shakti, one of the largest multinational aerial exercises hosted by the IAF, reflecting a deepening professional relationship between the two air forces. 

Knowledge Exchange: In addition to air operations, personnel will engage in: 

• Best Practices Sharing: Learning from each other's experiences. 
• Sports Activities: Building camaraderie through friendly competitions. 
• Cultural Exchanges: Promoting mutual understanding and respect. 

Significance of JMT-2024: The 2024 edition of JMT signifies: 

• The strong bilateral defence relationship between India and Singapore. 
• Years of collaboration through joint exercises. 
• The mutual respect developed over time. 

Potential Outcomes: The outcomes of JMT-2024 may lead to: 

• Enhanced strategic partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region. 
• Increased collaboration in future military exercises. 
• A stronger response capability to regional security challenges. 

[Question: 1813993]

Andhra Pradesh Plans Law to Boost Childbirth Rates

Background Information

• Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has proposed a law to encourage residents to have more children due to a population deficit. 
• Concerns have arisen in Southern states about reduced parliamentary representation resulting from lower fertility rates. 

Population Projections

• A 2020 report by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare indicates that India’s population will age, with a rising percentage of individuals aged 60 and above, especially in Southern states. 
• Southern states, which adopted lower fertility rates earlier, will experience this aging trend sooner than Northern states. 
• For example, Uttar Pradesh is expected to reach replacement-level fertility only next year, over 20 years after Andhra Pradesh. 
• From 2011 to 2036, India’s population is projected to increase by 31.1 crore, with Southern states contributing only 2.9 crore to this growth. 

Aging Population Concerns

• An aging population presents challenges such as a higher dependency ratio, straining state resources. 
• Southern states, with lower fertility rates, will face these issues earlier, requiring more funds for healthcare and elderly support. 

Electoral Representation and Demographic Transition

• The demographic transition has raised concerns about electoral delimitation, with Southern states fearing a loss of Lok Sabha seats due to smaller populations. 
• This highlights the disparity between states with low fertility rates and those still experiencing higher rates. 

Effectiveness of Pro-Natalist Policies

• Naidu’s mention of countries facing similar issues prompts questions about the success of pro-natalist policies. 
• Research shows that such policies often do not lead to increased birth rates, as seen in Japan and China despite their various incentives. 
• Academics argue that financial support alone is insufficient to encourage larger families. 
• Successful policies in Scandinavian countries emphasize comprehensive family support, gender equality, and parental leave. 

Historical Perspective on Population Growth

• Historically, politicians from Southern states were concerned about rapid population growth due to fears of food security. 
• However, Southern states have effectively reduced fertility rates over time, with Andhra Pradesh achieving Replacement Level Fertility in 2004. 
• Previously, Andhra Pradesh had laws discouraging larger families, but these have been revoked under Naidu’s government. 
• Despite lower fertility rates, India remains the most populous country globally due to population momentum. 

Alternative Solutions to Population Concerns

• Experts suggest migration as a solution to balance population imbalances between North and South India, similar to the model in the United States where immigration has boosted economic productivity. 
• Instead of solely focusing on increasing birth rates, experts recommend enhancing the economic productivity of the existing workforce to maximize the benefits of the current demographic dividend in India. 

India-China Sign Border Deal After Four-Year Negotiations

India and China Border Deal: Key Points

• Agreement Overview: India and China have signed a border deal after four years of negotiations, focusing on disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The agreement aims to enhance patrolling rights in the Depsang Plains and Demchok areas. 
• Background of Tensions: Tensions escalated in 2020 following the Galwan clash, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and an undisclosed number of Chinese soldiers. The clash was due to disputes over the poorly defined 3,440 km border, leading to military confrontations. Since then, India has insisted that relations with China would improve only after normalizing the border situation. 
• Details of the Agreement: The agreement allows both nations to resume patrolling in previously established areas along the LAC. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a breakthrough in patrolling arrangements, marking the end of the military standoff. The deal is the result of extensive diplomatic discussions, including 31 rounds of talks and 21 rounds of military discussions. 
• Changes Implemented by the Deal:
  • Resumption of Patrolling: Indian and Chinese soldiers can now patrol areas as they did before June 2020. 
  • Specific Areas of Focus: The deal particularly affects Depsang and Demchok, critical for military and water security. 
  • New Patrolling Protocols: Patrolling will occur twice a month, with a troop strength of 14-15 members per patrol. 
  • Coordination: Patrol programs will be shared, and dates will be adjusted if conflicts arise. 
• Implications of the Deal: The agreement is expected to de-escalate military presence in the region, reducing tensions and promoting stability along the border. Both nations had increased troop deployments following the Galwan clash, and the deal aims to reverse this trend. 
• What Remains Unchanged: Despite the agreement, several issues remain unresolved: 
• No Normalisation of Relations: Direct flights between India and China have been suspended for four years, and India has not yet allowed their resumption. 
• Ban on Chinese Apps: India continues to restrict nearly 300 Chinese mobile applications due to data security concerns. 
• Skepticism Among Experts: Analysts caution that while the agreement is a step towards normalcy, it does not signify a complete resolution of tensions. 
• Expert Opinions: Experts advise caution regarding the implications of the deal: 
• Farwa Aamer: The agreement is a step towards normalcy, but underlying issues persist. 
• Michael Kulegman: China remains a strategic competitor to India, and broader concerns will not diminish with this accord. 
• Brahma Chellaney: Vigilance is needed, as China may not withdraw its claims in disputed areas. 

Supreme Court Upholds Assam Citizenship Act Validity

• The Supreme Court of India has upheld the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, which pertains to the citizenship framework in Assam. 
• This decision was made by a Constitution Bench with a 4:1 majority, with Justice Surya Kant authoring the majority opinion. 
• Section 6A was introduced through the Assam Accord in 1985 to address the influx of migrants from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) into Assam. 
• Cut-off Date. The cut-off date for citizenship under Section 6A is March 25, 1971, marking the beginning of the Bangladesh Liberation War and a mass exodus of people to India. 
• Provisions. Migrants who entered Assam before March 25, 1971, can obtain Indian citizenship, while those who arrived after this date are considered foreigners and can be deported. 
• Citizenship Rights. Individuals of Indian origin who entered Assam before January 1, 1966, are granted citizenship, while those who arrived between January 1, 1966, and March 24, 1971, receive full citizenship rights except voting rights for ten years. 

Challenge to Section 6A

• Various petitioners, including NGOs, challenged Section 6A, arguing that it discriminates against migrants and violates Article 14, which guarantees equality. 
• Concerns were raised about its inconsistency with Articles 6 and 7, governing citizenship for Partition-era migrations. 
• Petitioners claimed that Section 6A alters Assam’s demographic balance, infringing on the cultural rights of indigenous Assamese people protected under Article 29. 
• They argued that this situation constitutes external aggression and internal disturbance under Article 355, obligating the Union government to protect Assam. 

Majority Opinion

• The majority opinion, led by Justices Kant and Chandrachud, upheld Section 6A, emphasizing Assam’s unique historical context and justifying the differentiated treatment of its migrants. 
• The judges asserted that Section 6A does not breach Article 14, as it balances humanitarian concerns with the state’s cultural and economic pressures. 
• They clarified that Section 6A complements Articles 6 and 7, targeting individuals not covered by these provisions. 
• Article 11 grants Parliament the power to create citizenship laws, allowing for specific conditions, and Article 29 supports cultural coexistence rather than exclusion. 
• Justice Kant urged for better implementation of Section 6A, particularly regarding the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants. 

Dissenting Opinion

• Justice Pardiwala dissented, declaring Section 6A unconstitutional. 
• He argued that while Section 6A may have been appropriate at its inception, it has become inconsistent with constitutional principles due to its failure to curb illegal migration. 
• Pardiwala pointed out the absence of a sunset clause, which could incentivize ongoing illegal immigration. 
• He criticized the reliance on state intervention for detecting foreigners, arguing it diverges from the Citizenship Act’s intent and undermines the efficient identification of illegal migrants. 

Potential Ramifications

• The ruling reinforces the March 25, 1971 cut-off date, central to the National Register of Citizens (NRC) established in 2019, which identified 19 lakh residents in Assam as potential non-citizens. 
• It may also impact ongoing debates about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) of 2019, which sets a different cut-off date of December 31, 2014, for non-Muslim migrants from Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. 

[Question: 1813994]

India Launches Fourth Nuclear Submarine, S4

• India has launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, S4, at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam. This new submarine is more advanced than the previous one, INS Arihant (S2), marking a significant step in India's naval capabilities. 

India’s SSBN Program

• The SSBN program aims to strengthen India’s nuclear deterrent. 
• The first SSBN, INS Arihant, was commissioned in August 2016 and serves as a technology demonstrator. 
• India currently operates two SSBNs: INS Arihant and INS Arighaat (S3). 

Submarine Specifications

• INS Arihant. Displacement of 6,000 tonnes, powered by an 83 MW pressurized light-water reactor using enriched uranium. 
• INS Arighaat. Similar specifications to Arihant but with technological upgrades. 
• S4. Features an improved reactor design, larger size, and enhanced capabilities. 

Missile Capabilities

• S4 can carry multiple K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) with a range of 3,500 km, significantly extending India’s undersea strike capability. 
• S4 is expected to enter service soon, following the completion of sea trials for the third SSBN, INS Aridhman (S4). 

Nuclear Triad and Deterrence Strategy

• India’s nuclear triad, completed in November 2018, allows nuclear weapon launches from land, air, and sea. 
• This capability is crucial for maintaining a credible minimum deterrence (CMD) strategy, ensuring national security. 

K-4 Missile and Undersea Deterrence

• K-4 missile, tested in 2020, is vital for undersea nuclear deterrence, enabling submerged launches for enhanced survivability and strategic reach. 
• It will be the backbone of India’s underwater deterrent until a more advanced 5,000 km range SLBM is developed. 
• India’s nuclear doctrine, based on CMD and a No First Use (NFU) policy, allows massive retaliation if attacked first, ensuring a robust deterrence posture. 

Future Plans

• The Government of India has approved the construction of two indigenous nuclear attack submarines (SSNs), which are crucial for monitoring and securing the Indo-Pacific region. 
• These hunter-killer submarines will complement the existing SSBN fleet and enhance operational capabilities. 

Pakistan: Punjab Government to Use Artificial Rain Against Smog

Punjab Government's Plan for Artificial Rain

• Punjab, Pakistan is planning to use artificial rain to combat severe smog in Lahore, which has the worst air pollution in the world with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 394, considered hazardous. 

About Air Quality Index (AQI)

• AQI measures air quality based on harmful PM2.5 particles. In Lahore, PM2.5 levels are 55.6 times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, posing serious health risks, especially for respiratory conditions. 

Causes of Smog in Lahore

• Temperature Inversion. In winter, warm air traps pollutants close to the ground, worsened by Lahore's hilly surroundings. 
• Stubble Burning. Farmers burn crop residue, especially after rice harvesting, contributing to winter smog in both India and Pakistan. 
• Vehicular Emissions. Exhaust from vehicles, along with industrial activities and biomass burning, is a major source of PM2.5 pollution. 
• Urban Development. Rapid urbanization and deforestation in Lahore have reduced green spaces, limiting natural air purification. 
• Industrial Pollution. Emissions from coal-fired power plants, like the Sahiwal plant, and the use of low-quality fuel contribute significantly to air pollution. 

Government Response

• Artificial Rain. Previous attempts at cloud seeding had limited success, providing only temporary relief from high AQI levels. 
• Crackdown on Polluters. Authorities have taken action against over 328 brick kilns and impounded more than 600 vehicles for emissions violations. 
• Fuel Regulations. The government banned Euro 2 fuel in Lahore in 2021 to reduce vehicular pollution. 
• Smog Mitigation Plan. Punjab's Environment Minister announced a detailed plan with immediate and long-term strategies, including: 
• Deployment of smog monitoring units, bans on single-use plastics, water sprinkling to reduce dust, greener mass transit options, industrial monitoring, fuel quality inspections, tree planting, and urban forests. 

Challenges Ahead

• Critics argue that current measures are only temporary solutions and call for a comprehensive strategy addressing urban planning and pollution sources. 
• There are concerns about relying on cloud seeding technology due to its unpredictability. 
• The Punjab government is working on a multi-faceted approach to effectively tackle the smog crisis, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable air pollution solutions. 

UN Report Warns of Rising Global Temperatures

Current Emission Trends

• Global emissions have increased from 37.8 billion tonnes in 1990 to 57.1 billion tonnes in 2023. 
• In 2023, emissions rose by 1.3% compared to 2022, surpassing the pre-pandemic average of 0.8% annually from 2010 to 2019. 
• This highlights the urgent need for action to curb emissions. 

National Climate Targets

• Countries are preparing their national climate targets, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs), for 2035 as part of the Paris Agreement. 
• NDCs are expected to be submitted in early 2025. 
• The report suggests that limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C is still achievable but requires significant effort. 

Required Emission Reductions

• To meet the 1.5°C goal, global emissions must be reduced by 42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035. 
• This represents a substantial challenge, emphasizing the need for immediate action. 

Mobilization for Change

• Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, calls for unprecedented global mobilization. 
• Immediate action is crucial before the next round of climate pledges to keep the 1.5°C goal within reach. 

Strategies for Emission Reduction

• The report outlines key strategies for emission reduction, including: 
• Implementing the Dubai agreement to triple renewable energy and double energy efficiency by 2030. 
• Increasing deployment of solar and wind energy, contributing to 27% of emission reduction potential by 2030 and 38% by 2035. 

Forests and Land Use

• Forest management is vital, with potential to deliver 20% of emission reductions by both 2030 and 2035. 
• Protecting and restoring forests is crucial in combating climate change. 

Transition from Fossil Fuels

• Transitioning away from fossil fuels is essential, as approximately 68% of emissions come from fossil fuel combustion in the energy sector and industrial processes. 
• Reducing reliance on coal, oil, and gas is critical for achieving climate targets. 

Investment and Global Cooperation

• A six-fold increase in investment for mitigation efforts is necessary to achieve net-zero emissions. 
• This requires reforming the global financial architecture, encouraging strong private sector involvement, and fostering international cooperation. 

Urgency for Action

• Global leaders must act decisively to reduce emissions and combat climate change. 
• The time for meaningful action is now, as the consequences of inaction will be severe and far-reaching. 

[Question: 1813995]

SIMBEX 2024

The 31st Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) is taking place from 23 to 29 October 2024 in Visakhapatnam. The Republic of Singapore Navy Ship RSS Tenacious arrived on 23 October to participate in this event. 

History of SIMBEX

• SIMBEX began in 1994 as 'Exercise Lion King' and has since evolved into a crucial maritime collaboration between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). 
• Over the years, the exercise has increased in scope and complexity, becoming a key aspect of maritime cooperation between the two nations. 

Objectives of SIMBEX 2024

• The main goal of SIMBEX 2024 is to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Singapore. 
• Key objectives include: 
• Enhancing interoperability between naval forces. 
• Improving maritime domain awareness. 
• Strengthening cooperation to address shared maritime challenges. 

Structure of the Exercise

SIMBEX 2024 is divided into two main phases: 

Harbour Phase (23 to 25 October)

• Conducted at Visakhapatnam. 
• Activities include: Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), Cross-deck visits between Indian and Singaporean naval personnel, Sports fixtures to promote camaraderie, Pre-sail briefings to prepare for the Sea Phase. 

Sea Phase (28 to 29 October)

• Takes place in the Bay of Bengal. 
• Involves advanced naval drills, including: Live weapon firings, Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training, Anti-surface and anti-air operations, Seamanship evolutions and tactical maneuvers. 

Opening Ceremony

• The opening ceremony for SIMBEX 2024 is scheduled for 24 October 2024 aboard INS Shivalik. 
• Attendees will include units from the Eastern Fleet and the Singapore Navy. 

SIMBEX plays a crucial role in enhancing collaboration between two key naval forces in Asia, promoting peace and stability in the maritime domain. As the exercise continues, it is expected to evolve, incorporating new technologies and tactics to address emerging maritime threats effectively. SIMBEX 2024 exemplifies the growing naval partnership between India and Singapore, aimed at ensuring a secure maritime environment. 

India Mobile Congress 2024

The India Mobile Congress 2024 (IMC 2024) highlighted Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a key theme. Held in New Delhi, the event showcased over 900 technology use cases, with 750 focused on AI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the forum, interacting with startups and demonstrating India’s technological progress. 

AI Use Cases

• Conservation: AI solutions for resource preservation. 
• Convenience: Enhancing user experience in daily tasks. 
• Efficiency: Streamlining operations across various sectors. 
• Safety: Implementing AI to bolster security measures. 
• Automation: Reducing human involvement in hazardous tasks. 
• Healthcare: Addressing doctor shortages in remote areas. 

Notable Innovations

• Bharti Airtel: Launched India’s first AI-powered spam detection tool for real-time alerts against spam calls and messages. 
• Ericsson: Introduced Rocky, a 5G-powered robotic dog for emergency assistance. 
• Nokia: Showcased technologies in 5G, 6G, and AI focused on sustainability. 
• Reliance Jio: Previewed PhoneCall AI for transcribing and summarizing phone calls. 
• Vodafone Idea: Demonstrated real-time diagnostic report transmission for remote video consultations with doctors. 

Startups and Innovations

• Humanoid Co-workers: AI-powered bots for mental health support. 
• De-addiction Programs: AI solutions aiding recovery processes. 
• Human Resources: AI tools for hiring, payroll automation, and employee performance monitoring. 

Education Sector Participation

• Institutions like IITs showcased innovations and engaged with industry leaders. 
• Ramakrishna P, CEO of IMC, emphasized the importance of mentorship opportunities for students. 

Research and Development

• BharatGen: Highlighted advancements in telecom and technology. 
• C3iHub (IIT Kanpur): Focused on cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. 
• Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR): Presented AI solutions for smart agriculture, including automated fish-feeding systems. 
• Mahindra University: Showcased AI tools for shrimp farming. 

IMC 2024 attracted over 400 exhibitors and 900 startups from 120 countries, solidifying its position as Asia’s largest digital technology forum and promoting innovation in the technology and telecom sectors. 

IndiaAI and Meta Launch Generative AI Center at IIT Jodhpur

AI and Meta Collaborate to Advance Open-Source AI in India

• Collaboration Announcement: AI and Meta have joined forces to establish the Center for Generative AI, Srijan at IIT Jodhpur. 
• YuvAi Initiative: This initiative focuses on skill development and capacity building in artificial intelligence (AI) across India. 
• Objectives: The collaboration aims to enhance research capabilities and promote the development of responsible and ethical AI technologies tailored for India. 
• Center for Generative AI, Srijan: Meta will support the establishment of this center at IIT Jodhpur to advance research and development in AI and promote open science innovation. 
• Focus on Education: The initiative emphasizes education and capacity building, providing training and resources to develop AI skills and ensure ethical practices. 
• Economic Growth: The initiative aligns with India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy by positioning the country as a leader in the global AI arena. 
• Future Prospects: The GenAI CoE is expected to encourage groundbreaking research and open-source innovation in AI, contributing to India’s vision of being a hub for AI development. 

[Question: 1813996]

India Launches $25 Million Pandemic Fund for Animal Health

Union Minister Launches Pandemic Fund Project for Animal Health Security

• Launch of Pandemic Fund Project: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh inaugurated the Pandemic Fund Project in New Delhi, aimed at enhancing animal health security in India. 
• Focus on Pandemic Preparedness: The initiative seeks to improve preparedness and response to pandemics within the livestock sector, ensuring better protection against potential outbreaks. 
• Funding and Support: The project is backed by a substantial $25 million fund from the G20 Pandemic Fund, highlighting the international support for improving animal health security. 
• Key Participants: The launch event featured important figures such as Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Shri Amitabh Kant, and Prof. Dr. V K Paul, emphasizing the significance of the initiative. 
• Importance of Livestock Sector: Minister Singh underscored the livestock sector’s crucial role in social and economic upliftment, noting its growth over the past nine years due to various government schemes. 
• National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP): The NADCP aims to control and eradicate Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis in India, with millions of vaccines already administered. 
• Creation of FMD Disease Free Zones: The department plans to establish FMD Disease Free Zones in nine states to create safe environments for livestock and reduce disease outbreak risks. 
• Role of Pandemic Fund: The fund will enhance disease surveillance, including genomic and environmental monitoring, and support the development of laboratory infrastructure. 
• Cross-Border Collaboration: The project encourages cross-border collaboration for effective management of zoonotic diseases, promoting a more integrated approach to animal health. 
• Integrated Disease Management: The focus is on creating a comprehensive framework for disease management, facilitating better coordination among stakeholders in the livestock sector. 
• Strengthening Capacity: With the support of the Pandemic Fund, the Ministry aims to bolster India’s capacity to respond to animal health emergencies, enhancing the resilience of the livestock sector against future pandemics. 

Armenia Becomes India’s Leading Defence Export Destination

Armenia's Shift in Defence Partnerships

• Rising Defence Exports: Armenia has become India’s top destination for defense exports, with a record total of Rs 21,083 crore (around $2.63 billion) in the fiscal year 2023-24. This represents a 32.5% increase from the previous year. The rising security concerns in Eurasia have led Armenia to diversify away from its historical dependence on Russian arms, seeking greater self-reliance in its defense strategy. 

• Shift from Russian Dependence: Traditionally, Armenia relied on Russia for 94% of its military supplies between 2011 and 2020, including advanced weaponry like the Iskander missile system and Su-30SM fighter jets. However, the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war exposed weaknesses in Russian support, prompting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to seek alternative defense partnerships, particularly with India. 

• Development of Partnership: The partnership between India and Armenia began to strengthen in 2020, with defense agreements estimated at $2 billion. Armenia quickly became the leading destination for Indian arms, marking a significant shift from reliance on Russian military support to a strategic alliance with India. 

• Key Defence Acquisitions by Armenia: Armenia’s defense agreements with India include advanced military systems such as: 

  • Pinaka Multi-Launch Rocket Systems: Enhancing artillery capabilities, especially in mountainous regions like Nagorno-Karabakh. 
  • Akash-1S Air Defence Missile System:. $720 million order for 15 units to defend against aerial threats, including fighter jets and drones. 
  • Dornier-228 Surveillance Aircraft: Improving reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities for better airspace control. 
  • Additional Military Hardware: Supplies include anti-tank guided rockets, night-vision goggles, bullet-proof vests, and advanced weapon-locating radars, modernizing Armenia’s defense posture. 

• Strengthening the Partnership: High-level meetings, such as the 2022 discussions between Armenian Defence Minister Suren Papikyan and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, have further solidified the defense relationship. The establishment of an Armenian defense attaché in New Delhi in 2023 highlights the commitment to this partnership, facilitating coordination on defense projects and training exchanges. 

• India’s Strategic Interests: For India, the partnership with Armenia is part of a broader strategy to enhance influence in the South Caucasus, countering the trilateral alliance between Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Pakistan. India’s support for Armenia positions it as a key player in regional security and aligns with its ambition to become a major global defense exporter. 

• Mutual Benefits: The defense partnership offers mutual advantages, with Armenia modernizing its military and reducing dependence on a single supplier, while India deepens engagement in Eurasia and strengthens its defense export market. Deliveries of advanced systems like the Akash missile and Pinaka rocket launchers signify deepening ties and potential future collaborations in defense technology co-development. 

India Ranks 79th place in Rule of Law Index Ranking 2024

• India is placed 79th out of 142 countries in the 2024 Rule of Law Index by the World Justice Project. This ranking reflects the state of governance, fundamental rights, and the business environment in the country. 

Governance Indicators

India’s performance in governance is mixed: 

• 60th in constraints on government powers (indicating some checks on government authority). 
• 44th in open government (suggesting progress in transparency and accountability). 
• However, these rankings also highlight lapses and a lack of coordination in governance improvement efforts. 

Fundamental Rights

• India ranks 102nd in the protection of fundamental rights, indicating serious issues with the enforcement and respect for citizens’ rights. 
• The country is also 98th in order and security, reflecting challenges in public safety and law enforcement effectiveness. 

Criminal Justice Efficiency

• India’s criminal justice system is rated 82nd, known for its slowness and inefficiency, which undermines public confidence in legal processes. 

Business Climate

India’s business environment is rated poorly: 

• 97th in absence of corruption (indicating corruption issues). 
• 78th in regulatory enforcement. 
• 107th in civil justice delivery. 
• These factors are crucial for attracting investment and fostering business growth. 

International Comparisons

Countries like Singapore outperform India significantly: 

• 3rd in absence of corruption and regulatory enforcement. 
• 8th in civil justice delivery. 
• This contrast highlights the challenges India faces in improving its business environment. 

Regional Rankings

• In South Asia, India ranks third, better than Bangladesh (127), Pakistan (129), and Afghanistan (140). 
• Nepal (69) and Sri Lanka (75) rank higher than India. 

Comparison with G7 Countries

Among G7 countries, India fares poorly:

• Germany ranks 5th, Canada 12th, Japan 14th, the UK 15th, France 22nd, the USA 27th, and Italy 32nd. 

Lowest Ranking:

• Venezuela ranks 142nd, highlighting the severe challenges faced by countries with weak governance and rule of law.