UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 1st February 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

What are Microplastics?

Source: Times of India

Why in News?

A recent study commissioned by the Delhi government has discovered the presence of microplastics in groundwater samples throughout the capital, highlighting an emerging environmental concern.

• Microplastics are small plastic particles, generally measuring less than 5 mm.
• They are persistent in the environment, difficult to remove, and can accumulate over time.

Additional Details

• Primary Microplastics: These are tiny plastic particles intentionally created for commercial applications, including cosmetics, and include microfibers released from textiles, such as clothing and fishing nets. They can enter the environment through various means, including product usage, accidental loss during production, transportation spills, or washing.
• Secondary Microplastics: These particles originate from the degradation of larger plastic items like water bottles, primarily due to environmental factors such as sunlight and ocean waves.
• Once in the environment, microplastics do not biodegrade. They can be ingested by marine organisms, potentially causing harm to aquatic life and leading to bioaccumulation within the food chain.
• Microplastics may carry toxic chemicals and pollutants, adding further risks to both organisms and ecosystems.

The detection of microplastics in the groundwater of Delhi underscores the urgent need for addressing plastic pollution and its long-term environmental impacts.

GS3/Science and Technology

China’s Artificial Sun Creates Record in Fusion Research

Source: Hindustan Times

The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), commonly referred to as China's "Artificial Sun," has set a new world record by maintaining a high-confinement plasma operation for 1066 seconds. During this operation, the artificial sun achieved an extreme temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius, surpassing its previous record of 403 seconds.

• EAST has demonstrated significant advancements in nuclear fusion research.
• This achievement marks a crucial step towards the development of sustainable fusion energy.

Additional Details

• What is the EAST Project: The EAST Project is a nuclear fusion research facility developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP) since 2006. It aims to replicate solar fusion reactions to create a sustainable and clean energy source for future power generation.
• The project serves as a global research platform for fusion experiments and advancing magnetic confinement technology, using superconducting magnets to contain ultra-hot plasma necessary for fusion.

Comparison with Other Fusion Projects

• China’s EAST: Achieved a record of 1066 seconds at 100 million degrees Celsius (2025).
• Korea’s KSTAR: Recorded 100 million degrees Celsius for 20 seconds (2020).
• France’s ITER: The largest global fusion project involving 35 nations, expected to achieve plasma ignition by 2035.

Significance of This Achievement

• Record-Breaking Fusion Operation: EAST sustained plasma at 100 million °C for 1066 seconds, significantly exceeding its previous record of 403 seconds.
• Progress Toward Fusion Power Plants: Prolonged plasma confinement is essential for achieving continuous, self-sustaining fusion reactions.
• Potential for Clean Energy: Fusion has the capacity to produce zero carbon emissions, positioning it as a potentially unlimited energy source once commercially viable.
• Global Competition: Other projects like ITER (France) and KSTAR (Korea) are also making advancements in fusion research, aiming for similar breakthroughs.

Challenges in Nuclear Fusion

• Extreme Temperatures: Plasma must be maintained at over 100 million °C, necessitating high-energy input.
• Material Limitations: Reactor components need to endure intense heat and radiation, but currently, no material can withstand these conditions indefinitely.
• Energy Input vs. Output: Existing reactors consume more energy than they produce, hindering commercial viability.
• Magnetic Confinement Issues: Plasma instability can disrupt reactions, complicating sustained fusion.
• High Costs: Fusion research demands significant investment in superconductors, cryogenics, and containment systems.

This record achievement by EAST not only showcases the progress in fusion research but also highlights the potential of fusion energy as a clean and sustainable power source for the future. Continued advancements in this field could revolutionize energy production globally.

GS3/Environment

Saffron Reedtail Damselfly

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Recently, two naturalists made a remarkable discovery of the saffron reedtail damselfly for the first time in Karnataka, specifically along the Netravati River. This sighting has brought attention to the presence of this rare species in the region.

• The saffron reedtail damselfly is scientifically known as Indosticta deccanensis.
• This species belongs to the family Platystictidae, commonly referred to as shadow damselflies.
• It is a slender and delicate insect, endemic to the Western Ghats of India.
• These damselflies thrive in habitats with pristine water quality, often near slow-moving forest streams.

Additional Details

• Habitat: The saffron reedtail damselfly is typically found in streams surrounded by dense vegetation, relying on clean water for their lifecycle.
• Prior to this discovery, their distribution was recorded in the southern parts of the Western Ghats, particularly in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• Significance: The presence of this damselfly species serves as an indicator of a healthy ecosystem, as they are highly sensitive to environmental changes and pollution.
• What are Damselflies? They are a group of predatory, aerial insects belonging to the order Odonata. Damselflies are generally smaller and more delicate compared to dragonflies, and they are found primarily near shallow, freshwater habitats.

The spotting of the saffron reedtail damselfly in Karnataka highlights the ecological significance of this species and the importance of preserving its natural habitat to maintain biodiversity in the region.

GS1/Indian Society

Supreme Court Bans Manual Scavenging in Six Major Cities

Source: India Today

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court of India mandated a complete ban on the practice of manual scavenging and the unsafe cleaning of sewers and septic tanks in six metropolitan cities across the country. This significant decision aims to address the social and health issues associated with manual scavenging.

• The Supreme Court has ordered CEOs of six cities to submit affidavits by February 13, 2025, detailing plans to eliminate manual scavenging.
• The court is monitoring compliance with its previous rulings, emphasizing the need for modern technology in sewer cleaning.

Additional Details

• Affidavit Submission: The Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad are required to file detailed affidavits outlining how and when they will cease manual scavenging and sewer cleaning in their respective cities.
• Health Risks: Manual scavengers are often exposed to dangerous conditions, leading to severe health issues such as respiratory problems, gastrointestinal diseases, and skin infections.
• Social Stigma: Individuals involved in manual scavenging face significant societal discrimination, which affects their families and limits their opportunities for education and employment.
• Consequences for Non-compliance: The court has warned officials that failure to comply with its order may lead to serious repercussions, including potential legal action.
• Significance of the Ruling: This decision is a crucial step in protecting the rights of marginalized communities and improving public health by eliminating hazardous practices.

The Supreme Court's ruling not only reinforces existing legislation against manual scavenging but also calls for stricter enforcement and accountability. It is essential for municipal bodies to adopt modern cleaning technologies and provide rehabilitation support for former manual scavengers, ensuring their reintegration into society.

GS3/Economy

What is Geo-Economic Fragmentation?

Source: Business Standard

Why in News?

The Economic Survey 2024-25 highlights a concerning trend of declining global economic integration, with the emergence of geo-economic fragmentation as a significant factor. This shift has resulted in a notable increase in trade restrictions worldwide.

• Geo-economic fragmentation represents a policy-induced reversal of global economic integration.
• It is primarily driven by strategic geopolitical interests, leading to the formation of trade and financial partnerships based on political alignments.
• This fragmentation process affects various channels, including trade, capital, and migration flows.

Additional Details

• Impact on Global GDP: Geo-economic fragmentation could lead to permanent losses in global GDP, with IMF estimates suggesting costs could range from 0.2% to as much as 7% in certain economies.
• Factors Contributing to Losses:These economic losses may arise from several sources, including:
  • Technological decoupling
  • Imposition of trade restrictions
  • Reduced capital movements due to heightened risk aversion
  • Decline in international cooperation regarding global public goods
• Trade Dynamics: Trade serves as the primary channel through which geo-economic fragmentation is reshaping the global economic landscape.
• Investment Flows: The effects of geo-economic fragmentation are evident in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flows, which are increasingly concentrated among countries aligned geopolitically, particularly in critical sectors.

In conclusion, the trend of geo-economic fragmentation poses significant challenges to global economic stability, emphasizing the need for renewed cooperation and strategies to mitigate its adverse effects.

GS3/Environment

Rusty-Spotted Cat

Source: The PrintWhy in News?

Recently, the elusive rusty-spotted cat was spotted playing in the jungles of Purulia district, West Bengal. This sighting marks a significant event for wildlife researchers and enthusiasts alike.

• The rusty-spotted cat holds the title of the world's smallest and lightest known cat.
• India is home to approximately 80 percent of the total population of this cat species.

Additional Details

• Scientific Name: Prionailurus rubiginosus
• Distribution: The rusty-spotted cat is found in dry deciduous and semi-deciduous forests across northern and central India, the Western Ghats, Kachchh, Rajasthan, as well as in Nepal and Sri Lanka.
• Physical Characteristics:
  • Weighs less than 1.5 kilograms, making it about half the size of a domestic cat.
  • Has a fawn-grey coat adorned with rusty spots on its back and flanks.
  • Features a short, rounded head with two white streaks on the inner edges of its eyes.
  • Possesses large eyes with greyish brown to amber irises, likely an adaptation for its nocturnal lifestyle.
  • Legs are relatively short with black-soled feet, and the tail is moderately long, displaying a more rusty color than the body and is unmarked.
• Conservation Status: The rusty-spotted cat is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.

The recent discovery of the rusty-spotted cat not only highlights the rich biodiversity of India's forests but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts for this unique species.

GS2/International Relations

Four Years On, Myanmar and Its Continuing Nightmare

Source: The Hindu

The ongoing crisis in Myanmar, following the military coup on February 1, 2021, has led to severe fragmentation within the country, with persistent conflicts between the military junta and various resistance forces. This situation necessitates a thorough examination of the military conflict, the role of regional organizations like ASEAN, and the involvement of neighboring countries.

• Myanmar remains deeply divided due to civil conflict between the military junta and resistance groups.
• ASEAN's efforts to mediate the crisis have largely failed due to internal divisions among member states.
• China has increased its influence in Myanmar, while India faces a dilemma balancing security and democratic principles.

Additional Details

• Military Conflict: Since the coup, Myanmar has experienced intense civil war, with over 28,000 arrests and more than 6,200 deaths reported by January 2025. The conflict is chaotic, involving the National Unity Government (NUG) coordinating resistance groups, yet yielding no outright victories.
• ASEAN's Role: ASEAN's Five-Point Consensus aimed to restore peace but was ignored by the junta, highlighting the organization's limited influence due to a lack of unity among its members.
• China's Influence: China maintains a strategic partnership with Myanmar, focusing on economic interests through projects like the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC), which is vital for its Belt and Road Initiative.
• India’s Dilemma: India balances its historical support for democracy in Myanmar with security concerns regarding insurgent groups operating along its northeastern border.
• Thailand's Position: Thailand, sharing a border with Myanmar, is affected by the crisis but faces constraints in exercising influence due to its own political situation.
• Bangladesh and Laos: Bangladesh lacks significant leverage in Myanmar and has struggled to address the Rohingya issue, while Laos remains sidelined due to its limited regional influence.

The international community's focus has shifted away from Myanmar, risking prolonged suffering without a resolution. A path toward internal reconciliation is essential for the country's future, as reliance on foreign actors has proven ineffective.

GS2/International Relations

A Note for New Delhi on Dealing with ‘Trumperica’

Source: The Hindu

The inauguration of Donald Trump as President of the United States marked a significant shift in American policy characterized by sweeping executive orders, stringent immigration measures, aggressive trade policies, and a focus on artificial intelligence (AI). These policies not only align with Trump’s vision of ‘America First’ but also have profound implications for global geopolitics, particularly affecting India and the trajectory of U.S.-India relations, which now face new challenges.

• Trump's administration is enforcing strict immigration policies that may lead to mass deportations of undocumented Indians.
• The economic impact on India includes potential loss of remittances and increased unemployment due to the return of deported individuals.
• Trade relations may suffer due to aggressive tariff policies aimed at enforcing compliance with U.S. immigration measures.
• The push for AI development threatens job security for Indian IT professionals in the U.S. and may disrupt India’s IT-BPM sector.

Additional Details

• Immigration Crackdown: Trump's hardline approach to immigration could affect approximately 725,000 undocumented Indians in the U.S., leading to mass deportations and significant economic repercussions for India.
• Economic Consequences: The loss of remittances from undocumented Indian workers could destabilize household incomes in India, while the return of deported individuals will put additional pressure on an already strained job market.
• Trade Policies: Trump's willingness to use tariffs as a tool of economic coercion may jeopardize India's trade agreements, especially if India resists accepting deported nationals.
• Impact on Education: Increasing restrictions on international students may lead to a decline in Indian student enrolments in U.S. universities, affecting both students and the education sector.
• AI Disruption: The U.S. effort to dominate the AI landscape could limit job opportunities for Indian software engineers, posing existential challenges to India's IT sector.

In conclusion, Trump's policies present India with a complex set of challenges, necessitating a strategic approach to navigate the evolving dynamics of U.S.-India relations. New Delhi must prioritize proactive diplomacy, economic planning, and domestic reforms to safeguard its interests amid the uncertainties posed by ‘Trumperica’.

GS3/Economy

Cannabis Cultivation in India

Source: Indian Express

The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has approved a pilot study for the controlled cultivation of cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes, highlighting a significant shift in the region's approach to cannabis cultivation.

• Cannabis cultivation is currently prohibited for recreational use under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
• Controlled cultivation is seen as a potential revenue generator and employment creator.
• Himachal Pradesh offers ideal soil and climate conditions for low-THC hemp varieties.
• Other states like Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir are also exploring regulated cannabis cultivation.

Legal Status of Cannabis Cultivation in India

• Prohibition: Cannabis is prohibited for recreational use under the NDPS Act, 1985.
• Regulation:
  • Section 2: Bans the cultivation, production, and sale of cannabis resin and flowers.
  • Section 10: Allows state governments to regulate cannabis cultivation for medicinal and scientific purposes.
  • Section 14: Grants the Central Government authority to permit cultivation for industrial uses, such as fiber and seed extraction.

Why Himachal Pradesh Could Soon Allow Controlled Cannabis Cultivation?

• The region's soil and climate are ideal for cultivating low-THC hemp varieties.
• The government aims to generate revenue, create employment opportunities, and support local farmers in districts such as Kullu, Chamba, Mandi, Solan, Kangra, and Sirmaur.
• Cannabis cultivation will be limited to industrial and pharmaceutical purposes, including:
  • Pain relief medications
  • Textile and paper production
  • Biofuel and cosmetics
  • Hemp-based food products
• Regulating the sector could help reduce illegal cannabis cultivation known in Kullu and Malana.

Which are the other States to allow Controlled Cannabis Cultivation in India?

• Uttarakhand (2018): First state to legalize industrial hemp cultivation, managed by the Centre for Aromatic Plants (CAP) in Selaqui. Challenges include maintaining THC levels below 0.3% and seed availability.
• Madhya Pradesh (2023): Approved medicinal cannabis research, but commercial cultivation has yet to start. Sai Phytoceuticals (Pvt. Ltd.) received the first license for cannabis-based medicine production.
• Jammu & Kashmir (2021): Launched India's first medicinal cannabis pilot project through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with a Canadian firm, focusing on cannabis-based treatments for cancer and epilepsy.

In conclusion, the exploration of cannabis cultivation in India, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, reflects a broader trend towards controlled cultivation for medicinal and industrial purposes, aiming to balance economic benefits with regulatory compliance.

GS2/International Relations

The Ongoing Crisis in Myanmar: Four Years After the Military Coup

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The ongoing crisis in Myanmar marks its fourth anniversary since the military coup on February 1, 2021, which has led to severe political, humanitarian, and economic repercussions. The situation has garnered global attention, highlighting the urgent need for international intervention.

• The coup disrupted a decade-long democratic transition and led to widespread civil unrest.
• Human rights violations and a humanitarian crisis have escalated, affecting millions.
• Myanmar's economy is projected to contract due to ongoing conflicts and natural disasters.
• ASEAN's efforts to mediate the crisis have faced challenges in implementation and effectiveness.

Additional Details

• Impact of the Military Coup: The coup reversed democratic progress by overthrowing Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD), resulting in massive protests and the emergence of a shadow government, the National Unity Government (NUG).
• Humanitarian Crisis: The military's crackdowns have led to numerous human rights abuses, with over 6,000 civilians killed and 3.5 million displaced. The World Bank predicts that by 2025, approximately 19.9 million people will require humanitarian aid, including 6.3 million children.
• Economic Outlook: Myanmar's GDP is expected to contract by 1% in the fiscal year ending March 2025, with high inflation rates causing acute food insecurity for about 25% of the population.
• ASEAN's Role: ASEAN initiated a Five-Point Consensus in April 2021 to address the crisis, but its implementation is hindered by lack of inclusivity and pressure on the military. The Trioka Mechanism aims to monitor the situation but faces challenges in addressing the complexities of the crisis.

The situation in Myanmar remains dire, and without substantial international support and effective diplomatic efforts, the prospects for recovery and stabilization appear bleak. Regional powers like China and India are urged to engage constructively, but existing tensions complicate the path forward.