UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 10th February 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Economy

Budget Allocation for Urban Development - Key Highlights and Insights

Why in News?

In 2015, the government emphasized urban development due to its significant contribution of 67% to the GDP. However, urban development appears to be neglected in the current "Viksit Bharat" vision.

• Total budget outlay for urban development is ₹96,777 crore, an increase from last year's ₹82,576.57 crore, but the real allocation has decreased when adjusted for inflation.
• Revised estimates show a projected expenditure of only ₹63,669.93 crore by March, indicating a 22.9% shortfall.
• Significant cuts in the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) with allocations reduced from ₹30,170.61 crore to ₹13,670 crore for FY 2024-25.
• Urban transfers have been reduced, impacting the funding needed for urban infrastructure.

Additional Details

• Decline in Direct Transfers to ULBs: The share allocated to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) has decreased from ₹26,653 crore to ₹26,158 crore, compounded by a 21% decline in GST revenue which has not been adequately compensated.
• Cuts in Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS): The PMAY (CSS component) has undergone a 30% budget cut compared to the previous year.
• Shift in Focus to Capital-Intensive Projects: Increased funding for metro and mass rapid transit systems raises concerns about prioritization over broader urban mobility.
• Introduction of the Urban Challenge Fund: A new fund of ₹10,000 crore has been announced for urban redevelopment, with a target of ₹1 lakh crore, expecting 50% from private investments, which may be unrealistic given past participation rates.
• Risk of Widening Disparities: The budget's focus on large infrastructure projects over employment and sustainability risks exacerbating social and economic disparities in urban areas.

The current budget allocation for urban development highlights significant challenges, particularly with underutilization of funds and shifting priorities that may not align with the pressing needs of urban infrastructure and sustainability.

GS2/International Relations

India’s Opportunity at the AI Action Summit

Why in News?

The upcoming AI Action Summit, co-chaired by India and France in Paris on February 10-11, 2025, represents a pivotal moment in the realm of global AI governance. This summit is a continuation of prior discussions on AI safety that took place in the United Kingdom (2023) and South Korea (2024), broadening the dialogue to encompass innovation, AI governance, and the implications for the future workforce. For India, this summit is not only a chance to promote the interests of the Global South in the fast-evolving AI landscape but also an opportunity to assert its leadership in international AI policy discussions.

• India's proactive role in previous AI discussions highlights its commitment to global AI governance.
• The summit provides a platform for India to advocate for equitable access to AI resources for developing nations.
• India aims to contextualize AI risks and safety measures to reflect the unique challenges faced by the Global South.

Additional Details

• India’s Growing Influence in AI Governance: India has actively participated in global AI discussions, playing a significant role in meetings focused on frontier AI models and safety concerns. The establishment of the AI Safety Institute demonstrates India's commitment to AI governance and safety.
• Key Strategic Priorities:
  • Democratising Access to AI Resources: India advocates for an inclusive AI ecosystem to ensure access to computing infrastructure, quality datasets, and innovative safety tools.
  • Prioritising AI Use-Cases for the Global South: India seeks to develop frameworks that identify AI applications tailored to healthcare, education, and agriculture, addressing the specific needs of developing nations.
  • Contextualising AI Risks and Safety Measures: India emphasizes the importance of assessing AI risks specific to the Global South, advocating for data-driven approaches to mitigate unique challenges.

In conclusion, India’s participation in the Paris AI Action Summit is a crucial opportunity for both the nation and the Global South. By advocating for equitable access to AI resources, region-specific applications, and tailored risk assessments, India can ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed fairly. Establishing a leadership role in future AI summits would further reinforce India's position as a key player in the global AI narrative.

GS2/Polity

Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act (CLNDA), 2010

Why in News?

The Union government's recent announcement regarding amendments to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act (CLNDA), 2010, and the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, has generated optimism among American and French nuclear power companies. Their projects in India have faced legal hurdles for over 15 years, and these changes may pave the way for renewed collaboration.

• The CLNDA serves as the legal framework for addressing nuclear incidents in India, established by Parliament in 2010.
• This act is aligned with international civil nuclear liability principles from the Vienna Convention, Paris Convention, and Brussels Supplementary Convention.
• It creates a structured mechanism for compensating victims of nuclear accidents, detailing liability allocation and compensation processes.

Additional Details

• Strict and No-Fault Liability: The operator of the nuclear plant is held liable for damages regardless of fault, ensuring victims receive compensation.
• Liability Limit: The operator's liability for nuclear disasters is capped at ₹1,500 crores, necessitating appropriate insurance or financial security.
• If damage claims exceed ₹1,500 crores, the government is expected to intervene.
• Government Liability Cap: The government's liability is limited to the equivalent of 300 million Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), roughly ₹2,100 to ₹2,300 crores.
• The act mandates a 15-day reporting timeline for incidents by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board.
• A Nuclear Damage Claims Commission has been established to ensure fair compensation and resolve conflicts.

Overall, the amendments to the CLNDA are anticipated to significantly affect the nuclear industry in India, enhancing safety and liability clarity, which may encourage foreign investments in nuclear power projects.

GS3/Science and Technology

Wandering Salamanders: A Study on Locomotion Mechanisms

Why in News?

Recent research has unveiled fascinating insights into the locomotion abilities of wandering salamanders, specifically how they control blood flow in their toe tips to enhance their ability to grip and release from surfaces in their arboreal habitats.

• Wandering salamanders can rapidly fill, trap, and drain blood in their toe tips for optimized movement.
• The largest salamander, the Chinese Giant Salamander, can grow up to 5 feet long.
• Some species possess regenerative capabilities, allowing them to regrow limbs and tails.

Additional Details

• Physical Features: Salamanders are amphibians with a slender body and long tail, exhibiting a size range from 2.5 cm to 20 cm.
• Habitat: They typically inhabit moist environments, such as brooks, ponds, and under rocks, where they can find shelter and food.
• Behavior: As nocturnal and cold-blooded creatures, their body temperature is influenced by their surroundings. Some species are also known to be poisonous.
• Adaptive Mechanism: Salamanders can control blood flow to their toe tips, allowing for asymmetrical pressure adjustments that improve grip on uneven surfaces, such as tree bark.
• Significance of Findings: Insights into the toe mechanics of salamanders may lead to advancements in adhesives, prosthetics, and robotic appendages.

This research provides a deeper understanding of salamander locomotion and highlights potential applications in various fields, showcasing the unique adaptations of these remarkable creatures.

GS3/Science and Technology

What is Graphene?

Why in News?

Recent research has uncovered a novel state of matter related to the flow of currents through graphene layers, highlighting its significance in the field of material science.

• Graphene is an allotrope of carbon, alongside diamond and graphite.
• It is a two-dimensional material made up of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb lattice.
• Graphene was first isolated in 2004 and has since been applied in various innovative fields such as sensors, electronics, energy storage, and healthcare.

Additional Details

• Thickness: Graphene is recognized as the world's thinnest material, measuring just one atom thick, which is one million times thinner than a human hair.
• Strength: It boasts a strength that is 200 times greater than that of steel while being six times lighter.
• Flexibility: Graphene is extremely flexible and can be stretched without breaking.
• Conductivity: It is an excellent conductor of both electricity and heat.
• Transparency: Graphene is almost perfectly transparent, absorbing only 2% of light and is impermeable to gases, including light ones like hydrogen and helium.

Graphene's unique properties present exciting possibilities for advancements in multiple industries, driving ongoing research and development.

GS2/International Relations

Cook Islands and Its Cooperation Deal with China

Why in News?

New Zealand's Foreign Minister has expressed "significant concern" regarding the Cook Islands as it prepares to finalize a cooperation agreement with China. This development highlights the shifting dynamics in the Pacific region and the increasing influence of China in areas traditionally aligned with New Zealand and other Western partners.

Key Takeaways

• The Cook Islands is a self-governing nation in the South Pacific with a close association with New Zealand.
• It consists of 15 islands, divided into northern and southern groups, each with distinct geographical features.
• New Zealand's apprehension reflects broader geopolitical tensions in the Pacific region.

Additional Details

• Geographical Overview:The Cook Islands are located between Tonga to the west and French Polynesia to the east and include:
  • Northern Islands: These are mainly low-lying coral atolls such as Manihiki, Nassau, and Penrhyn, characterized by light vegetation and beautiful white sand beaches.
  • Southern Islands: This group features larger volcanic islands like Rarotonga and Aitutaki, which are more densely populated.
• Highest Point: The highest elevation in the Cook Islands is Te Manga on Rarotonga, reaching 652 meters.
• Population Center: Most residents live on Rarotonga, where the capital city, Avarua, is located.

This situation emphasizes the Cook Islands' strategic importance in the Pacific and the potential implications of its foreign partnerships, particularly with China, as it navigates its relationship with New Zealand and other regional powers.

GS3/Economy

What Does the Budget Offer Railways?

Why in the News?

The Railway Budget, previously a significant annual event, has diminished in importance since its merger with the general Budget in 2017. The recent Budgets (July 2024 and February 2025) did not include specific mentions of Indian Railways.

• ₹1,16,514 crore allocated for safety-related initiatives.
• Implementation delays in the Kavach Train Protection System.
• Modernization efforts for stations and trains with enhanced safety features.
• Significant railway projects aimed at improving connectivity in various states.

Additional Details

• Enhanced Safety Budget: A total of ₹1,16,514 crore is set aside for safety initiatives, focusing on infrastructure upgrades and accident prevention.
• Kavach Train Protection System: Currently limited to an initial rollout of 1,465 km, with concerns regarding implementation delays.
• Grade Separation & Track Upgrades: Efforts include eliminating level crossings, doubling railway lines, and gauge conversions to enhance safety and reduce congestion.
• Modern Signaling & Electrification: Plans to upgrade signaling systems and achieve 95% electrification to bolster train control and overall safety.
• Station & Train Modernization: Redevelopment of key stations and the introduction of new Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains with improved safety features.

State Benefits from Railway Budget Allocations

• Uttar Pradesh: Major redevelopments of railway stations (e.g., Ayodhya, Varanasi), new Vande Bharat trains, and better connectivity via high-speed rail projects.
• Maharashtra: Investment in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail, Western Dedicated Freight Corridor, and urban railway modernization.
• Gujarat: High investments in freight corridors, bullet train projects, and Amrit Bharat station redevelopment.
• West Bengal: Expansion plans for the railway network, doubling of tracks, and station modernization, particularly at Howrah and Sealdah.
• Tamil Nadu: Focus on gauge conversion and station redevelopment, particularly in Chennai, along with new semi-high-speed trains.
• Bihar & Jharkhand: Increased railway line expansion and connectivity improvements to enhance freight movement and passenger services.
• Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh: Benefits from dedicated freight corridors, track doubling, and station upgrades for improved passenger services.

Impact of Amrit Bharat Trains on Connectivity

• Infrastructure Development & New Tracks: Expansion of railway lines to enhance connectivity to underserved regions.
• Modernization of Stations: Upgrading facilities to improve passenger experiences and integrate multiple transport modes.
• Expansion to Underserved Areas: Introduction of Amrit Bharat trains will connect tier-2 and tier-3 cities, enhancing regional transportation.
• Faster Travel Between Major Hubs: Semi-high-speed operations will reduce travel time between key business centers.
• Boost to Religious & Tourism Circuits: Improved access to religious and tourist destinations, stimulating cultural and economic growth.
• Better Connectivity in Northeast & Border Areas: Strengthening rail links in remote regions to enhance security and development.

Challenges Facing the Railway Budget

• Underwhelming Returns on Investment: Despite a ₹13 lakh crore investment, freight traffic growth is stagnant at just over 2%, not matching India's economic growth.
• Slow Implementation & Execution: Delays in major projects, such as the New Delhi station redevelopment, have persisted for nearly a decade.
• Financial and Sustainability Concerns: Expenses are exceeding earnings, raising questions about maintaining new infrastructure effectively.

Way Forward

• Prioritize Efficient Implementation & Safety Expansion: Accelerate infrastructure projects and expand Kavach beyond the initial rollout.
• Enhance Financial Sustainability & Asset Utilization: Focus on optimizing freight revenue and strategically repurposing idle diesel locomotives.

In conclusion, while the recent railway budget aims to enhance safety, modernize infrastructure, and improve connectivity, it faces significant challenges that need to be addressed for effective execution and sustainability.

GS2/Polity

India’s Nuclear Liability Law: Key Amendments and Global Impact

Why in the News?

The Central government of India has announced plans to amend its Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA) and the Atomic Energy Act to address long-standing concerns from foreign nuclear power companies, particularly from the U.S. and France, regarding liability issues that have stalled projects in India.

• The amendments aim to facilitate major nuclear projects, improving India's nuclear energy capacity.
• India seeks to strengthen its strategic partnerships with the U.S. and France through these changes.
• Challenges include domestic political opposition and legal uncertainties regarding the amendments.

Additional Details

• Reasons for Amendment:
  • Foreign companies are hesitant to invest in India due to stringent liability clauses in the CLNDA, which hold suppliers highly responsible for nuclear accidents.
  • India's current nuclear power capacity stands at 6,780 MW with plans to expand significantly, targeting 100 GW by 2047.
• Challenges:
  • There may be strong domestic opposition to weakening supplier liability, as the original law was born out of significant public scrutiny.
  • Legal and regulatory uncertainties regarding how the amendments will be structured pose risks that could deter investment.
• Global and Economic Impact:
  • Amending the CLNDA could lead to the revival of stalled projects like Westinghouse's AP1000 reactors and EDF's Jaitapur plant, significantly enhancing India's clean energy capacity.
  • India's partnership with U.S. and France in nuclear energy aims to enhance technological expertise and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

The proposed amendments to India’s nuclear liability law signal a pivotal shift in policy that seeks to attract foreign investment and unlock long-delayed nuclear energy projects. While these changes could greatly expand India’s nuclear capabilities, they must also consider international standards and domestic political dynamics. As Prime Minister Modi prepares for visits to the U.S. and France, the focus will be on whether these amendments can resolve a 15-year impasse and position India as a significant player in the global nuclear energy landscape.

GS2/Governance

NITI Aayog launches Swavalambini Initiative

Why in News?

The NITI Aayog has recently initiated the Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme in partnership with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to promote female entrepreneurship in the Northeastern states of India.

• The program aims to develop entrepreneurial skills among female students in higher education institutions.
• It focuses on states including Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram.

Additional Details

• Empowerment: The initiative seeks to inspire and equip young women to become job creators and leaders, thereby contributing to the economic development of Northeast India.
• Skill Development: The program provides structured training to enhance participants' entrepreneurial competencies by covering essential business aspects.
• Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP): A two-day session designed to introduce 600 female students to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
• Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP): An intensive 40-hour training for 300 selected participants, focusing on financial planning, market access, legal compliance, and business networking.
• Mentorship: Participants will receive six months of dedicated mentorship to aid in transforming their business ideas into viable enterprises.
• Faculty Development Programme (FDP): A 5-day training aimed at enhancing faculty members' capabilities to effectively mentor aspiring entrepreneurs.

The Swavalambini initiative embodies a significant effort to bolster women's roles in entrepreneurship, particularly in the Northeast, fostering economic growth and empowerment through education and support.

GS3/Defence & Security

An Aerospace Expo to Further India’s Global Presence

Why in News?

Aero India 2025, scheduled from February 10 to 14 at the Indian Air Force station in Yelahanka, Bengaluru, is more than just an aviation exhibition. It serves as a strategic platform for innovation, strengthening global alliances, and advancing technological capabilities in aerospace and defense, marking a significant step for India in the global aviation landscape.

• Aero India 2025 will redefine aerospace exhibitions and enhance India's role in the aviation and defense sectors.
• The event highlights India's self-reliance initiatives and its growing influence in global defense partnerships.

Additional Details

• History of Aero India: The inaugural Aero India in 1996 was a modest event that aimed to showcase India’s aerospace capabilities and attract foreign investment. Over the years, it has evolved into a significant platform for defense collaboration and technology transfer.
• International Participation: From 2005 to 2015, participation from major aerospace companies surged, leading to significant defense procurement deals and the development of indigenous platforms like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
• Current Trends: Recent years have seen India focus on self-reliance in defense manufacturing, propelled by initiatives such as 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', showcasing its capabilities at international events like Aero India.
• Technological Showcases: Aero India 2025 will feature advanced fighter jets like the Russian Su-57 and American F-35, representing a significant opportunity for comparison and analysis by defense experts and policymakers.
• Innovation from Start-Ups: The 'Manthan' platform will highlight innovations from Indian start-ups, showcasing advancements in unmanned aerial systems, AI-driven defense solutions, and more.

Aero India 2025 is positioned as a crucial event that underscores India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in defense and aerospace production. By focusing on innovation and international partnerships, this expo will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s aerospace capabilities and enhancing its global presence in defense.

GS2/International Relations

Keeping a Watch on the Growing Arc of Violence

Why in News?

The global landscape is currently marked by instability, characterized by escalating conflicts and a rise in terrorism. The existing post-1945 international order is faltering, with institutions such as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) struggling to manage or prevent violence effectively. The evolution of terrorism, utilizing digital tools and decentralized networks, presents a significant challenge to global security.

• The ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza are contributing to high civilian casualties.
• Global institutions are failing to uphold international law and prevent conflicts.
• Recent trends show an increase in radicalization and lone-wolf terrorism.

Additional Details

• Current Global Conflicts: The war in Ukraine remains unresolved and the Gaza crisis has intensified, leading to substantial civilian suffering.
• The UNSC and ICJ are perceived as ineffective, as major powers disregard international law.
• Radicalization Trends: There is a notable resurgence in extremist groups, with online platforms facilitating recruitment and training, making it easier for them to operate.
• The rise of "lone wolf" attacks complicates counterterrorism efforts, as these individuals act independently.

In summary, the contemporary challenges posed by terrorism and global conflicts necessitate a cooperative and technological approach to security. Strengthening international institutions, leveraging artificial intelligence for surveillance, and implementing strict regulations against online radicalization are crucial. Additionally, enhancing community engagement and developing de-radicalization programs can help mitigate the root causes of extremism. As threats continue to evolve, global collaboration and proactive measures will be essential in striving for lasting peace.

GS3/Economy

Algorithmic Trading

Why in News?

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently taken steps to enhance the framework for algorithmic trading by requiring stock exchanges to empanel algorithmic trading providers and defining guidelines for the use of application programming interfaces (APIs).

• Algorithmic trading involves executing trading orders based on a predefined set of rules programmed into a computer.
• It allows for a speed and frequency of share order placements that are unattainable by human traders.
• Both institutional and retail investors in India are increasingly adopting algorithmic trading.
• SEBI's new framework aims to ensure the rights and responsibilities of stakeholders in the trading ecosystem.

Additional Details

• New Algo Trading Framework: This framework is designed to facilitate retail investors' access to algorithmic trading while ensuring necessary safeguards. Retail investors will only obtain access to approved algorithms through registered brokers.
• Broker Responsibilities: Brokers must obtain permissions from stock exchanges for each algorithm and will be responsible for handling investor grievances related to algo trading.
• Algo Categories:Algorithms will be classified into two types:
  • White box algos: These disclose their logic and can be replicated (e.g., execution algos).
  • Black box algos: These do not reveal their logic and cannot be replicated.
• All algo orders will be tagged with a unique identifier to maintain an audit trail, and any modifications to approved algorithms must receive prior approval from the exchange.

In summary, SEBI's initiative aims to foster safer participation of retail investors in algorithmic trading by establishing a structured and regulated approach, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in the trading process.