UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 21st November 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS1/Geography

Sabarmati River

Source: Hindustan Times

Why in news?

The Sabarmati Riverfront development project is an initiative aimed at revitalizing approximately 38 kilometers of riverbanks stretching from Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar, implemented in seven phases. The first phase, covering about 11 kilometers on either side of the river, has begun to generate revenue. This project was one of the key initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat.

• The Sabarmati River is a significant west-flowing river in India, originating from the Aravalli Range in Rajasthan and flowing through Gujarat before it merges into the Gulf of Khambhat in the Arabian Sea.
• Major tributaries of the Sabarmati include:
  • Left Bank: Wakal, Harnav, Hathmati, Watrak
  • Right Bank: Sei
• The river's journey can be divided into two main regions:
  • Rajasthan: The Sabarmati flows for about 48 kilometers (30 miles) through Rajasthan before entering Gujarat.
  • Gujarat: In Gujarat, it traverses through major cities including Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, concluding its course at the Gulf of Khambhat.
• Agricultural Significance: The basin of the Sabarmati is predominantly agricultural, with approximately 74.68% of its area dedicated to farming activities.
• Dependency on Monsoons: The river's water flow is largely dependent on the monsoon season, which significantly influences its annual water levels.

GS3/Science and Technology

Cloud Seeding

Source: Hindustan Times

Why  in News?

The Delhi government's request to the central authorities for approval to implement cloud seeding as a strategy to address the severe air pollution crisis in the capital has been deemed inappropriate by scientists from the Indian Institute of Tropical Management, Pune. The Environment Minister of Delhi proposed that generating artificial rain could help settle airborne pollutants and enhance visibility.

What is Cloud Seeding?

• Cloud seeding refers to a technique used to modify weather patterns by stimulating or increasing precipitation through the introduction of specific substances into the atmosphere.
• Common substances utilized in cloud seeding include:
  • Silver iodide
  • Potassium iodide
  • Dry ice (solid CO₂)
  • Liquid propane

How it Works

• The process involves tiny particles that serve as nuclei for cloud condensation or ice formation.
• These particles promote the coalescence of water droplets, leading to the formation of larger droplets that eventually fall as precipitation, either as rain or snow.

Methods of Cloud Seeding

• Aerial Spraying: This method involves the use of aircraft to distribute seeding agents into the atmosphere.
• Ground-Based Release: In this approach, seeding agents are released from generators situated on the ground.

Why Cloud Seeding May Not Work in Delhi?

• During the winter months, Delhi frequently experiences temperature inversions, which trap pollutants close to the ground. Such stable atmospheric conditions are not conducive to cloud formation that could be treated with cloud seeding.
• Cloud seeding is effective only when there are moisture-rich clouds present in the atmosphere.
• The scale of the pollution issue in Delhi is extensive, necessitating substantial and sustained rainfall across a large area to produce any significant impact.

GS2/International Relations

Interpol Notices

Source:Indian Express

Why in news?

On November 10, Bangladesh's interim government announced its intention to request Interpol's help in bringing back the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, along with other alleged "fugitives," to stand trial for purported crimes against humanity.

Interpol notices are international requests made by member countries to facilitate cooperation or alerts that allow law enforcement agencies in member countries to exchange vital crime-related information. Notably, these notices can also be utilized by the United Nations, International Criminal Tribunals, and the International Criminal Court to seek individuals wanted for crimes committed within their jurisdictions.

What is Interpol?

• Full Form: International Criminal Police Organization.
• Headquarters: Located in Lyon, France.
• Function: Interpol promotes international police cooperation to combat global crimes such as terrorism, human trafficking, cybercrime, and organized crime.
• India’s Representation: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) serves as India’s primary agency for Interpol matters.

Types of Interpol Notices

• Red Notice: A request to locate and arrest a person wanted by judicial authorities for prosecution or to serve a sentence, commonly used in extradition cases.
• Blue Notice: A request to gather more information about an individual’s identity, location, or actions related to a crime.
• Green Notice: A warning regarding an individual's criminal activities, particularly if they may pose a danger to public safety.
• Yellow Notice: Aimed at locating missing persons, especially minors, or identifying individuals who are unable to identify themselves.
• Black Notice: A request for information concerning unidentified bodies.
• Orange Notice: A warning about a potential threat from objects such as explosives, weapons, or criminal methods.
• Purple Notice: A request for or provision of information regarding the methods, objects, devices, and concealment techniques used by criminals.
• Interpol-UNSC Special Notice: Issued for individuals and entities subject to sanctions from the UN Security Council, such as asset freezes, travel restrictions, or arms embargoes.

GS2/International Relations

PM Modi's Visit to Guyana

Source:Times of India

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a visit to the small Caribbean country of Guyana, marking the first visit by an Indian PM in 56 years. He received a warm welcome in Guyana as President Irfan Ali broke the protocol to receive PM Modi at the airport. During this visit, PM Modi also co-chaired the second India-CARICOM Summit alongside Grenada's PM, who is the current Chair of CARICOM, and other CARICOM leaders.

CARICOM is a regional organization established in 1973 under the Treaty of Chaguaramas. Its primary objectives are to promote economic integration, coordinate foreign policy, and foster functional cooperation among member states while ensuring sustainable development in the region. CARICOM stretches from The Bahamas in the north to Suriname and Guyana in South America and consists mainly of developing countries, with the exception of Belize in Central America, as well as Guyana and Suriname. The organization comprises a grouping of twenty-one countries, which includes fifteen Member States and six Associate Members.

Pillars of Integration:

• Economic Integration: Aims to establish a single market and economy through the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).
• Foreign Policy Coordination: Ensures member states present a united voice on international matters.
• Human and Social Development: Focuses on enhancing education, health, youth development, and gender equality throughout the region.
• Security Cooperation: Addresses common challenges such as crime, border security, and disaster management.

Guyana holds significance as it has one of the oldest Indian diasporas, with a population of approximately 320,000 individuals of Indian descent, making up 43.5% of the total population.

• Energy Security and Hydrocarbon Cooperation:Guyana is rapidly emerging as a global oil hub, projected to surpass Venezuela in oil production by 2026. With substantial reserves and a rapidly growing GDP driven by oil discoveries, Guyana presents India with a vital opportunity to diversify its crude oil imports.
• Expanding Defence Partnerships:India has bolstered Guyana's defence capabilities by supplying Dornier 228 aircraft and providing a Line of Credit for the acquisition of patrol vehicles, radars, etc. This represents India's first-ever defence Line of Credit with a Caribbean nation, aligning with India’s strategic and economic interests.
• Enhancing Trade and Economic Cooperation:
  • India is collaborating with Guyana in various sectors, including agriculture, biofuels, IT, and pharmaceuticals. Key contributions encompass:
  • Constructing critical infrastructure such as the National Cricket Stadium and solar traffic lights.
  • Supporting initiatives like regional hospital upgrades, road linkages, and the provision of ocean-going vessels.
  • Encouraging bilateral trade, which, despite currently being low, exhibits positive growth potential.
• Competing with China’s Influence:
  • Guyana’s strategic location and abundant resources have drawn substantial Chinese investments in infrastructure under the Belt and Road Initiative. India is counteracting this influence by committing to infrastructure projects, including a $100 million road project in Georgetown.
  • Unlike China, India’s approach emphasizes local engagement and long-term partnerships, which are generally more positively received by Guyana's populace.
• Global South and Strategic Alliances:PM Modi’s visit signifies India’s broader strategy to strengthen relations with smaller nations within its Global South agenda. Guyana’s economic potential, spurred by its oil wealth, positions it as a crucial partner in this vision.
• Key highlights of the visit:
  • PM Modi was honored with The Order of Excellence of Guyana.
  • The President of Guyana awarded PM Modi the highest national honor, making him the fourth foreign leader to receive this prestigious award.

Agreements Across Key Sectors:

India and Guyana established 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance cooperation across various fields. These agreements include:

• Health and Pharmaceuticals: Cooperation in the regulation and supply of affordable medicines, including for CARICOM countries.
• India will set up a Jan Ausadhi Kendra in Guyana to facilitate better access to affordable medications.
• Hydrocarbons: Collaboration in crude sourcing, natural gas, infrastructure growth, and the overall hydrocarbon value chain.
• Agriculture: Joint initiatives, research and development, exchange of information and personnel, and food security projects.
• India is providing millet seeds to enhance Guyana’s food security.
• Digital Transformation: Focused on capacity building, training, sharing best practices, and collaboration among public officials.
• Banking and Payments: Implementation of India’s UPI-like real-time payment system in Guyana.
• Defence and Capacity Building:India is dedicated to skill development and capacity enhancement in Guyana, particularly in defence. Earlier this year, India gifted two Dornier aircraft to Guyana. PM Modi highlighted the importance of collaboration in infrastructure, energy, and food security, reaffirming India’s ongoing support for Guyana’s development.
• Collaboration in New Areas:
  • The leaders recognized novel areas for cooperation, which include:
  • Education and Human Capital Development
  • Technology Transfer and Food Processing
  • Ayurvedic Medicine and Vaccine Manufacturing
• Symbolic Initiatives:PM Modi participated in the symbolic planting of a sapling under the initiative Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam.

GS2/International Relations

Chancay Port Project in Peru

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The Chancay Port was inaugurated in Peru by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

• The Chancay Port Project has significant implications for international trade and relations, particularly between China and Latin America, as it aims to establish a new land-sea corridor connecting these regions.

About Chancay Port Project:

• The Chancay Port Project was launched in Peru, representing a critical component of a land-sea corridor that links China with Latin America.
• This initiative is part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with a total investment of $3.6 billion.
• Chancay Port is designed to accommodate large vessels, specifically those capable of carrying up to 18,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), which are recognized as some of the largest shipping vessels globally.

Ownership:

• The port is primarily owned by China Ocean Shipping (Group) Company (COSCO), which holds a 60% stake, while a local company retains the remaining interest.
• Chancay Port is projected to generate approximately $4.5 billion annually for Peru, representing about 1.8% of the nation's GDP.

Key Exports:

• Exports facilitated by the port will include significant commodities such as copper, blueberries, soybeans, and lithium sourced from the lithium triangle comprising Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.

Geo-strategic Location:

• The port's location is strategically advantageous, situated 78 km north of Lima, which is the capital of Peru.
• As a natural deep-water port, Chancay is particularly well-suited for accommodating the largest vessels in operation today.
• This port acts as a vital trade gateway, enhancing trade routes between South America and Asia, thus reducing the transit time for goods exchanged between these two regions.
• Chancay Port offers a direct route to Asia for Latin American exports, eliminating the necessity for these goods to pass through North American ports.

Why it is a concern for USA?

• Chinese Influence in Latin America:
  • The United States has historically regarded Latin America as its area of influence. The development of Chancay Port enhances China's economic and geopolitical footprint in the region, raising concerns for the U.S.
• Strategic Gateway for China:
  • This port significantly bolsters China's access to vital resources in South America, such as lithium and copper, heightening worries about China's increasing dominance in this area.
• US Trade Routes Disruption:
  • By reducing transportation times between Latin America and Asia, Chancay Port may disrupt established U.S. trade routes, potentially diminishing the U.S.'s role as a key trade facilitator.

PYQ:

[2017]What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India?
(a) India’s trade with African countries will enormously increase.
(b) India’s relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened.
(c) India will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
(d) Pakistan will facilitate and protect the installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq and India.

GS2/Polity

PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme

Source:Indian Express

Why in news?

Recently, the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved a new Central Sector Scheme, PM Vidyalaxmi, which seeks to provide financial support to meritorious students applying for higher education. Students will now be eligible to get collateral-free, guarantor-free loans from banks and financial institutions to cover the full amount of tuition fees and other expenses related to the course.

About

• This is a new Central Sector initiative aimed at providing financial support to meritorious students, enabling them to pursue higher education without facing economic barriers.
• The scheme aligns with the National Education Policy, 2020, which emphasizes the need for financial assistance for deserving students in both public and private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

Objectives

• Ensure Financial Inclusion in Education: This aims to enable meritorious students to pursue higher education without financial obstacles.
• Support Top Educational Institutions: The scheme applies only to high-quality HEIs recognized by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF).
• Provide Transparent and Digital Access: It utilizes a fully digital, transparent, and user-friendly platform for loan processing and management.

Features

• Loan Availability:
  • Eligibility: Any student who gains admission to a recognized Quality Higher Education Institution is eligible.
  • Loan Terms: Loans will be collateral-free and will cover the complete tuition fees and associated expenses.
• Institutional Coverage:
  • Applicable to institutions ranked in the top 100 of the NIRF, including both government and private institutions, as well as state government HEIs ranked 101-200, and all central government institutions.
• Coverage Scope:
  • At the initial stage, 860 Quality Higher Education Institutions are eligible, potentially benefiting over 22 lakh students.
• Credit Guarantee Support:
  • For loans up to ₹7.5 lakhs, there is a 75% credit guarantee on the outstanding amount, encouraging banks to provide education loans to more students.
• Interest Subsidy:
  • Eligibility: Students from families with an annual income of up to ₹8 lakhs, who are not receiving other government scholarships or interest subsidies.
  • Subsidy Terms: A 3% interest subvention on loans up to ₹10 lakhs during the moratorium period.
• Beneficiary Priority:
  • Preference is given to students enrolled in government institutions and those pursuing technical or professional courses.
• Expanded Eligibility:
  • PM Vidyalaxmi now includes middle-income families, unlike previous schemes that were restricted to low-income groups, and provides benefits without regard to caste.
• Simplified Loan Process:
  • Students can apply through the Vidyalaxmi portal, which connects with major public and private banks, streamlining the application process and facilitating loan tracking.
• Focus on NIRF Rankings:
  • Eligibility is confined to institutions ranked in the top 100 of the NIRF, whether overall or in specific categories.
  • In earlier schemes, institutions needed accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) or the National Board of Accreditation (NBA), which resulted in a larger pool of around 20,000 eligible institutions.
• Reduced Institution Coverage:
  • Only institutions recognized by the NIRF are eligible, leading to a significant reduction in the number of qualifying institutions compared to past schemes.
• Performance Stakes:
  • With eligibility linked to rankings, students must perform exceptionally well in entrance examinations to qualify for loans.
• Exclusion Risks:
  • Students from institutions not listed in the NIRF may face higher interest rates or be denied loans altogether.
• Institutional Competition:
  • Rankings become crucial, motivating institutions to improve their NIRF positions to attract students eligible for the scheme.

GS3/Science and Technology

What is High-Altitude Sickness?

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The recent unfortunate demise of a trekker on Garur Peak in Uttarakhand highlights the serious risks associated with high-altitude sickness in the Himalayan region.

Causes:

• High-altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when the body has difficulty adjusting to altitudes exceeding 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) due to lower oxygen levels.

Symptoms:

Initial indicators of AMS include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• If left untreated, AMS can escalate to more severe conditions:
  • High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): This condition involves fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to significant breathing difficulties.
  • High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): This occurs when fluid builds up in the brain, resulting in symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, and in severe cases, coma.

Prevention and Treatment:

• To mitigate the risk of AMS, experts advise the following:
  • Ascend slowly, taking rest days every 3-4 days after reaching elevations above 3,000 meters.
  • Avoid increasing sleeping elevations by more than 500 meters each day.
• Medications that may aid in prevention and treatment include:
  • Acetazolamide: This medication helps the body acclimatize to high altitudes more effectively.
  • Dexamethasone: This drug is used to decrease severe inflammation associated with high-altitude illness.
  • Nifedipine: It is recommended for high-risk individuals to prevent HAPE.
• Note: It is crucial that these medications are used under medical supervision, as they do not guarantee complete protection against AMS.

GS3/Environment

MJS launches ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal for Ground Water Withdrawal Permits

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal was digitally launched by the Minister of Jal Shakti during the India Water Week 2024.

The ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal serves as a centralized platform designed to manage permits for groundwater withdrawal.

Developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) in partnership with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), this portal aims to regulate groundwater resources across India in a manner that is both efficient and sustainable. Its focus is on ensuring transparency and sustainability in the usage of groundwater.

What is ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal?

• Centralized Platform: Facilitates the management of groundwater withdrawal permits.
• Collaboration: Created by CGWA and NIC to streamline groundwater regulation.
• Goals: Aims for efficient regulation of groundwater resources in India.
• Transparency and Sustainability: Ensures responsible use of groundwater resources.

About Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA)

• Regulatory Body:CGWA is responsible for the development and management of groundwater in India.
• Formation: Established under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986.
• Functions:Issues advisories, public notices, and grants No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for groundwater withdrawal.

Features and Provisions of the Portal:

• Centralized Database:Offers detailed information regarding legal frameworks governing groundwater extraction as well as relevant state and national regulations.
• User-Friendly Interface: Incorporates simplified features like a PAN-based single ID system and NOC with QR codes, enhancing the user experience for project proponents.
• Improved Version: An upgraded platform compared to its predecessor, NOCAP, providing enhanced functionality and ease of use.
• Groundwater Compliance:Centralized access to regulations, compliance measures, and sustainable groundwater practices.

Implementation:

• Launch and Accessibility:The portal is now live and publicly accessible for queries related to groundwater withdrawal, status tracking, and payment of statutory charges.
• Public Access:Available for all project proponents and the general public to cater to their groundwater-related requirements.

GS3/Economy

Should Packaged Food Content Be Labeled?

Source: The Hindu

Why in news?

A recent report by the Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNi) has brought to light significant disparities in the healthiness of food and beverage products sold in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) compared to those in high-income countries (HICs). This underscores the urgent need for effective labeling of packaged food to assist consumers in making healthier choices.

About the Report (Key Findings, Significance for India, Recommendations, etc.)

• Key Findings of the Report:
  • The report utilized a Health Star Rating System to analyze over 52,000 products from major brands such as Nestle, PepsiCo, and Unilever.
  • Products were scored out of 5 stars, with ratings above 3.5 being deemed healthy.
  • Average star ratings revealed a stark contrast: LMICs had an average of 1.8 stars, while HICs averaged 2.3 stars.
  • Evidence of fewer affordable healthy options available in LMICs.
  • Products in LMICs provided less micronutrient information than those in HICs.
  • Historical data indicated that certain products, like Nestlé's baby food, had higher sugar content in India and African markets compared to their European counterparts, leading to governmental scrutiny.
• Significance for India:
  • India is facing a health crisis characterized by a high prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), with over 100 million individuals suffering from diabetes and notable obesity rates.
  • There are concurrent challenges of undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies attributed to unhealthy diets and economic inequalities.
  • Dietary shifts towards increased consumption of processed foods high in sugar and fat are evident.
  • Over 56% of India's disease burden is linked to poor dietary habits, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR, 2023).
  • More than half of the Indian population cannot afford a nutritious diet, while spending on processed foods continues to rise.
• Importance of Front-of-Pack Labelling:
  • Countries like Chile and Mexico have successfully decreased sugary beverage consumption through mandatory front-of-pack labeling (FOPL).
  • India is involved in World Health Assembly resolutions that advocate for protecting children from the marketing of junk food.
  • Previous policies, such as the National Multisectoral Action Plan (2017-2022), aimed at addressing NCDs, have seen limited success in enforcing labeling regulations.
  • The 2022 Draft Notification for FOPL has not progressed effectively, and voluntary initiatives by food and beverage companies have been inadequate.
• Recommendations by the Report:
  • Implement mandatory regulations for clear labeling of sugar, salt, and fat content on food packaging.
  • Conduct public awareness campaigns to help consumers understand nutritional labels better.
  • Encourage food companies to create affordable healthy options for low-income populations.
  • Strengthen governmental action to enforce food labeling and adopt global best practices.

About FSSAI (Objective, Functions, Composition, etc.)

• What is the Indian Nutritional Rating (INR) System?
  • The INR system evaluates the nutritional profile of packaged foods, assigning ratings from 0.5 stars (least healthy) to 5 stars (most healthy).
  • A higher star rating indicates that the product better meets daily nutritional needs.
  • According to the notification, solid foods scoring above 25 receive 0.5 stars, while those scoring below -11 receive 5 stars.
  • Food businesses must submit nutritional profiles to FSSAI's portal to generate star-rating logos for their products.
• FSSAI:
  • The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
  • Objectives:
    • To set science-based standards for food articles.
    • To regulate the manufacturing, storage, distribution, import, and sale of food.
    • To ensure food safety for consumers.
  • Role/Functions of FSSAI:
    • Formulating regulations to establish food standards and guidelines.
    • Creating frameworks for the accreditation of certification bodies in food safety management.
    • Collecting and analyzing data on food consumption and biological risks.
    • Developing a nationwide information network to provide reliable information on food safety.
    • Offering training programs for individuals involved in the food industry.
    • Contributing to the establishment of international food standards.
  • The FSSAI is composed of a Chairperson and twenty-two members, with a requirement that one-third of the members be women.
  • The Chairperson is appointed by the Central Government.
  • Concerned Ministry:Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
    • At the state level, FSSAI appoints food safety authorities, with enforcement primarily handled by State Food Safety Commissioners.

GS2/International Relations

CLUSTER MUNITIONS

Source: UN News

Why in News?

Recently, a Russian ballistic missile equipped with cluster munitions targeted a residential area in northern Ukraine, resulting in the tragic deaths of 11 individuals and injuring 84 others. Additionally, U.S. President Joe Biden has authorized, for the first time, the use of U.S.-supplied longer-range missiles by Ukraine to strike inside Russia, following extensive lobbying by Ukrainian officials.

What are Cluster Munitions?

• Definition: Cluster munitions are weapons designed to disperse multiple smaller explosive devices, known as submunitions or bomblets, over a broad area.
• Types: These munitions can be delivered through various means, including rockets, artillery, or aircraft.
• Purpose: They are primarily used to attack personnel, vehicles, or infrastructure within a concentrated area.

Mechanism

• Cluster munitions are designed to open in mid-air, scattering numerous submunitions across a wide region.
• A significant number of these bomblets often fail to explode, posing long-term dangers akin to landmines.

International Concerns

• Humanitarian Issues:
  • The unexploded bomblets present ongoing threats to civilians for many years after a conflict concludes.
  • These munitions are known for causing high civilian casualties due to their indiscriminate nature.
• Environmental Damage: The use of cluster munitions leads to land contamination and limits the safe use of agricultural fields.

Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM)

• Adopted: The convention was adopted in 2008 and became effective in 2010.
• Objective: Its primary aim is to prohibit the use, development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, and transfer of cluster munitions.
• Ratifications: More than 110 countries have ratified or joined the convention.
• Provisions:
  • Support for victims and the clearing of contaminated areas are key aspects of the convention.
• States Not Joined: Major military powers, including the USA, Russia, China, and India, have not signed the convention.

India’s Position

• India has refrained from signing the CCM, citing several reasons:
  • Concerns about security and the need for legitimate defensive capabilities.
  • The absence of universal adherence to the convention by all nations.
  • Doubts regarding the effectiveness of existing alternatives to cluster munitions.