Current Affairs Reverse Engineering
Care (8-02-2024)
| News at a Glance
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| International – China opens fifth Antarctic research station
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| First EU-India Roundtable on Countering Drones use by terrorists |
| Ecology and Environment – EU Sets New Climate Goal for 2040
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| Carbon Capture and Storage |
| Atmospheric river in California |
| Schemes in news- EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme |
China opens fifth Antarctic research station
Source: The Hindu
Context: China has inaugurated its fifth research station in Antarctica, named Qinling.
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS Paper II (International Relations, treaties) GS Paper III ( Environment and Ecology)
Why in news
- China has opened its fifth Antarctic research station starting operations in an outpost due south of Australia and New Zealand for the first time. The research station will be staffed all year-round.
Key Highlights
- Qinling station resembles a crucifix with quarters sufficient to house as many as 80 people in the summer months, and will be staffed year-round.
- Perched on the rocky coast of Inexpressible Island in the icy Ross Sea, Qinling is also situated near the permanently inhabited US McMurdo station.
- China has four other research stations in other parts of Antarctica that it previously built from 1985 to 2014 — Zhongshan, Taishan, Kunlun and Great Wall — with two of them also year-long stations like Qinling.
- Construction of Qinling first broke ground in 2018, but its launch was delayed due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
- In November, China sent its biggest Antarctic fleet with more than 460 personnel to the site to help complete the station.
- Qinling was expected to include an observatory with a satellite ground station, and it would be well situated to collect signals intelligence over Australia and New Zealand, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based think tank, said in a report in April.
Concerns
- This move has sparked concerns, particularly from US-allied nations Australia and New Zealand, over the base’s potential dual-use capabilities.
- The 5,244 square meters station, equipped with a scientific research and observation area, an energy facility, a main building, a logistics facility, and a wharf for China’s Xuelong icebreakers, is reportedly positioned to collect signals intelligence and telemetry data on rockets launching from newly established space facilities in both countries.
International expeditions in Antarctica
- There are currently 70 permanent research stations scattered across the continent of Antarctica, which represent 29 countries from every continent on Earth.
- The US has six stations and Australia has three.
- China signed the Antarctic Treaty in 1983. The treaty designates the continent as a natural reserve and prohibits commercial resource extraction.
India in Antarctica
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) based in Goa operates two Antarctica stations currently — Maitri and Bharati in the southern continent.
- Dakshin Gangotri was India’s first science station established in Antarctica. It was set up in 1983-84 and abandoned in 1988-89 after it was submerged in ice.
- India plans to build a new scientific research station in Antarctica by January 2030 to replace the 35- year-old Maitri research base on the White Continent.
- The site for the new station has already been identified, with NCPOR submitting a proposal for the Centre’s approval.
- The Union ministry of earth sciences has already granted an in-principle approval for a design competition for the new station.
Indian Antarctic Act in 2022
- India passed the Indian Antarctic Act in 2022. Such a law was necessary under India’s obligations as a signatory to the Antarctic Treaty of 1963.
- The key objectives of the Treaty are to demilitarise Antarctica, establish it as a zone free of nuclear tests and the disposal of radioactive waste, and to ensure that it is used for peaceful purposes only; to promote international scientific cooperation in Antarctica and to set aside disputes over territorial sovereignty.
- Private tours and expeditions to Antarctica would be prohibited without a permit or the written authorisation by a Member country. A Member country is one of the 54 signatories of the Treaty.
Indian Antarctic Environmental Protection Rules, 2023
- Indian Antarctic Environmental Protection Rules, 2023, clearly state India’s commitment to protect the Antarctic environment.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements with regards to Antarctica:
1. Dakshin Gangotri is India’s first and only working science station established in Antarctica. 2. India and China received Consultative status in Antarctic Treaty of 1963 in the same year. 3. US has highest number of stations in Antarctica.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 3 only D. None of the above |
Q. The formation of ozone hole in the Antarctic region has been a cause of concern. What would be the reason for the formation of this hole? (UPSC Prelims 2011)
A. Presence of prominent tropospheric turbulence; and inflow of chlorofluorocarbon. B. Presence of prominent polar front and stratospheric clouds; and inflow of chlorofluorocarbons C. Absence of polar front and stratospheric clouds; and inflow of methane and chlorofluorocarbons D. Increased temperature at polar region due to global warming
Answer B |
| Ans 1 A
Explanation
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First EU-India Roundtable on Countering Drones use by terrorists
Source: DD News
Context: New Delhi to Host First Ever EU-India Roundtable on Countering Terrorist Exploitation of Drones
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS Paper II (Bilateral Groupings & Agreements)
Why in News
- The first-ever European Union (EU)-India Track 1.5 dialogue on countering the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) by extremists and non-state actors will take place in New Delhi.
Key highlights
- The day-long EU-India roundtable aims to better understand the range of current and emerging threats associated with consumer-grade UAS technology.
- Participants from the EU and India will discuss best practices regarding regulatory, tactical, and investigative responses to addressing UAS threats in both regions.
- Commercial UAS technology has rapidly developed in recent years, becoming technologically sophisticated and widely available to consumers.
- Violent extremists have exploited these affordable and adaptable consumer devices for various purposes, including reconnaissance and violent attacks.
Counterterrorism Engagements
- This roundtable is part of a series of ongoing counterterrorism engagements between the EU and India.
- The EU project Enhancing Security Cooperation in and With Asia (ESIWA) has facilitated these engagements.
- Previous activities under ESIWA in the field of counter-terrorism and preventing violent extremism (CT-PVE) include successful training on chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) risk management for Indian security practitioners and expert discussions on countering online extremism.
Importance of Sharing Knowledge
- The EU Ambassador to India, Herve Delphin, emphasized the hybrid nature of security and terrorist threats, citing the use of commercial drones as an example.
- Sharing knowledge and experiences between the EU and India is crucial in countering drone threats and intensifying dialogue and cooperation on security issues.
- Terrorist organizations and individual violent extremists worldwide have deployed off-the-shelf drones, taking advantage of their affordability and adaptability.
- The rapid rise of this phenomenon and evolving technologies necessitate ongoing threat assessments and mitigation strategies.
Organizers and Expert Inputs
- The EU-India roundtable has been organized by the ESIWA project in partnership with the National Security Guard of India and the EU Delegation to India.
- Expert inputs will be provided by the EU’s Directorate General of Migration and Home Affairs (DG Home), Spain’s Ministry of the Interior, Hungary’s national police (Rendorseg), and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCCT).
ESIWA Project and Thematic Areas
- The ESIWA project is co-funded by the European Union, the German Federal Foreign Office, and the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
- It aims to enhance the EU’s security and defense cooperation with the Indo-Pacific in four thematic areas: counter-terrorism and preventing violent extremism, crisis management, cyber security, and maritime security.
- The project is co-implemented by the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ) and Expertise France.
- In October 2023, the EU Commission issued a Communication on countering potential threats posed by drones, outlining the EU’s commercial drone policy for the coming years.
Conclusion
- The EU-India roundtable on countering the terrorist exploitation of drones in New Delhi marks an important step in addressing the emerging threats associated with unmanned aerial systems.
- By sharing knowledge and best practices, the EU and India aim to develop effective regulatory, tactical, and investigative responses to ensure security and defense in the face of evolving drone technologies.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. Consider the following statements with regards to Enhancing Security Cooperation in and With Asia (ESIWA) :
1. It aims to enhance the security and defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. 2. It is US government initiative.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
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Q. The 2+2 dialogue in bilateral relations between India and Japan refers to meetings attended by which two dignitaries of the two countries? (UPSC Prelims 2021)
A. Prime minister and Defense Minister B. Prime minister and Foreign minister C. Prime Minister and President D. Foreign secretary and Defense secretary Answer: D
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| Answer 2 A
Explanation
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EU Sets New Climate Goal for 2040
Source: Down to Earth
Context: EU Sets New Climate Goal for 2040
UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS- 3 (Environmental Pollution & Degradation Conservation)
Why in news
- Recently the European Union (EU) introduced its new proposed 2040 climate goal, aiming to achieve a net emissions reduction target of 90 per cent by 2040 compared to the 1990 baseline levels.
EU’s Climate Targets Timeline
- In September 2020, the EU announced a goal to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 55 per cent below 1990 levels by 2030, compared to the previous target of 40 per cent.
- This goal was submitted as the EU’s second Nationally Determined Contribution to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in December 2020.
- The EU Climate Law, enacted in 2021, enshrined a commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and included a set of proposals known as the “Fit for 55” package to achieve the 2030 reduction target.
New 2040 Climate Goal
- The 2040 proposal is an interim step required by the EU Climate Law, outlining a process to develop a 2040 target within six months of the first Global Stocktake (GST), which concluded at the 28th Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC in Dubai in December 2023.
Fossil Fuel Phaseout and Energy Crisis
- The EU’s 2040 target outlines a roadmap for the phaseout of coal by 2040, rapid decline in the use of natural gas, and the eventual phaseout of oil.
- The recent energy crisis in the EU, stemming from the war in Ukraine and a significant dependency on Russian natural gas, led to a diversification of energy suppliers and a notable increase in renewable energy uptake, with wind and solar surpassing fossil gas for electricity generation in 2022.
Challenges and Critiques
- The EU’s proposed 2040 target has faced criticism for not aligning with its historical emissions burden.
- Civil society and climate experts have suggested that the EU would ideally need a target of 65 per cent emissions reduction by 2030 and at least a 95 per cent reduction by 2040 compared to 1990 levels to remain on a 1.5C pathway and address its fair share.
- The proposal heavily relies on carbon capture and carbon removal solutions, with an expectation of carbon removals reaching up to 400 tonnes CO2 by 2040, raising concerns about the actual reduction level if the dependence on these technologies is removed.
India’s climate goals
- Net-zero by 2070: India announced this goal at the COP26 meeting in 2021.
- 50% renewable energy by 2030: India also announced this goal at COP26.
- 45% reduction in emissions intensity by 2030: This is a more ambitious target than India’s previous 2016 goal.
- 500 GW non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030
- 1 billion tonnes of CO2 reduction by 2030
- 5–3 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent carbon sink by 2030
Conclusion
- The EU’s new climate goal for 2040 represents a significant step in the EU’s commitment to addressing climate change and achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
- However, the proposal has sparked discussions and critiques regarding its alignment with historical emissions burdens and heavy reliance on carbon capture and removal solutions.
- As the EU continues to navigate the transition towards a sustainable and climate-neutral future, on going dialogue and assessments will be crucial in shaping effective and equitable climate policies.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements:
1. Recently the European Union (EU) introduced a net emissions reduction target of 90 per cent by 2070. 2. India targets net zero in 2070, based on climate programme “Fit for 55”.
Which of the above statement is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. None of them |
Q. With reference to ‘Global Climate Change Alliance’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2017)
1. It is an initiative of the European Union. 2. It provides technical and financial support to targeted developing countries to integrate climate change into their development policies and budgets. 3. It is coordinated by World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer : B
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| Answer 3– D
Explanation –
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Carbon Capture and Storage
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS III (Environmental Pollution & Degradation)
Context: Carbon dioxide emissions are building up in the atmosphere and warming earth.
Why in news
- World need to understand that large amounts of carbon capture is not the solution of global warming. Reduction of fossil fuels and phasing them out completely is the inevitable solution.
About Carbon Dioxide
- Carbon dioxide is a natural and important part of the Earth’s atmosphere.
- But at about 4%, its concentrations are some 50% higher than 200 years ago, at the start of the Industrial Revolution.
- Since then, human activity, largely the burning of fossil fuels, has boosted this planet-heating gas to dangerous levels, and we’ve done little to slow those emissions.
- As carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases build up in the atmosphere, they act as a blanket and prevent solar energy from radiating back out into space at night, thereby warming the planet.
About carbon capture and storage
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) is naturally removed from the atmosphere by forests and other plant life.
- Oceans and soils also absorb CO2, removing it from the atmosphere.
- But these aren’t quick fixes, and we’re rapidly wiping them out through deforestation, pesticide overuse, and pollution.
- Carbon capture and storage can prevent excess carbon dioxide from getting into the atmosphere in the first place.
- It was first introduced in the 1970s, though the process remains controversial for some due to health and safety concerns.
- These include leaking pipes that could cause asphyxiation in humans or animals, drinking water contamination through leached metals and other pollutants, and the potential for seismic activity triggered by the compressed CO2. It remains banned in Germany.
How does carbon capture and storage work
- Point source capture involves artificially separating carbon dioxide from other gases released by the burning of fossil fuels like coal or natural gas, or from steel mills, refineries, cement plants, and fertiliser plants.
- Carbon dioxide can also be removed from fuel before combustion, but this process uses different technology found in newer facilities.
- Once captured, the CO2 is compressed into a liquid and transported to a suitable storage site, usually deep underground.
- Storage sites can include former oil and gas reservoirs, abandoned coal mines, and porous rock formations filled with salty water.
- Carbon dioxide can be pulled directly from the air using filters and chemicals in a process known as direct air capture with carbon storage.
- These facilities are energy-intensive and still very expensive.
- Another option, bioenergy with carbon capture and storage, involves burning biomass wood, energy crops, or solid agricultural and municipal waste that contains captured carbon to generate energy. The resulting emissions are captured and stored underground.
- Planting and processing managed forests and crops could sequester even more carbon, though these crops could end up competing with food crops for land and water.
- The use of all these technologies today is still limited and mostly untested on a larger scale.
Why do carbon capture and storage matter?
- Even if we drastically cut carbon dioxide emissions in the near future, the world will still need to remove between 450 billion and 1.1 trillion metric tonnes of CO2 by 2100, according to a January 2023 expert report.
- The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said in 2022 that the use of CO2 removal technologies will be “unavoidable” if the world wants to meet its net-zero emissions goals.
- But experts warn the sector will need to see substantial development over the next 10 years. Current research suggests just 0.1% of global emissions are captured by such technology.
- In November 2023, the International Energy Agency warned that oil and gas producers needed to “let go of the illusion that implausibly large amounts of carbon capture are the solution.”
The Way Forward
- A better solution, expert say, is to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and phase them out completely as soon as possible.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Which of the following accurately describes the process of point source capture in carbon dioxide mitigation?
A. Extracting carbon dioxide from the atmosphere using specialized technology. B. Separating carbon dioxide from other gases released by burning fossil fuels or industrial processes. C. Converting carbon dioxide into a solid form for storage. D. Utilizing different technology to remove carbon dioxide from fuel before combustion.
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Q. Consider the following agricultural practices: (UPSC Prelims 2012)
1. Contour bunding 2. Relay cropping 3. Zero tillage In the context of global climate change, which of the above helps/help in carbon sequestration/storage in the soil? A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 1, 2 and 3 D. None of them Answer : B |
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Answer 4: B Explanation: · Point source capture involves artificially separating carbon dioxide from other gases released by the burning of fossil fuels like coal or natural gas, or from steel mills, refineries, cement and fertilizer plants. · Carbon dioxide can also be removed from fuel before combustion, but this process uses different technology found in newer facilities. · Therefore, correct answer is option B.
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Atmospheric river in California
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS I (Important Geophysical phenomena)
Context: Understanding the ‘Atmospheric River’ Bringing Heavy Rain to California
Why in news
- California is currently facing the impact of a potentially dangerous storm, known as an atmospheric river, which poses the threat of hurricane-force winds, flooding, and mudslides as it moves down the coast over the next few days.
About the Atmospheric River
- An atmospheric river is a weather system characterized by a flow of moisture that periodically heads east from waters adjacent to the Hawaiian Islands to soak the US West Coast.
- This weather phenomenon, often referred to as a “Pineapple Express,” derives its name from the plume of moisture that stretches back across the Pacific to near Hawaii.
Impact on California
- The storm arrived in Northern California on Saturday, leading to wind, surf, and flood watches across the state.
- The National Weather Service issued a rare “hurricane force wind warning” for the Central Coast, with wind gusts reaching up to 92 mph (148 kph) from the Monterey Peninsula to the northern section of San Luis Obispo County.
- The storm is expected to move down the coast, bringing downpours, flash floods, and high-elevation mountain snow to the Los Angeles area on Sunday and to Orange County and San Diego on Monday.
- Heavy to moderate rain is anticipated to persist in Southern California.
Forecasted Rainfall and Potential Risks
- The National Weather Service has forecasted up to 6 inches of rainfall across Southern California’s coastal and valley areas, with up to 12 inches likely in the foothills and mountains.
- The heavy rainfall poses the risk of mudslides, debris flows, and flooding, with the region already grappling with the aftermath of a previous atmospheric river that hit the San Francisco Bay Area and moved down the coast.
Challenges and Critiques
- The storm has led to significant disruptions, with reports of fallen trees causing fatalities and widespread power outages.
- The intensity and impact of the atmospheric river have raised concerns about the potential for life-threatening flooding, mudslides, and the strain on emergency response and rescue operations.
Relevance to India
- While India does not typically experience atmospheric rivers in the same way as the west coast of North America, the concept is relevant in understanding the monsoon system.
- The Indian monsoon can exhibit characteristics similar to atmospheric rivers, with moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean bringing sustained and heavy rains over the subcontinent.
Impact on Indian Weather Systems:
- India’s unique geography makes it susceptible to significant seasonal rains from the southwest monsoon.
- An atmospheric river-like system can potentially exacerbate the monsoon, leading to excessive rainfall, flooding, and subsequent agricultural and urban impacts.
Conclusion
- The atmospheric river currently affecting California has brought about significant challenges, including the risk of extreme weather events such as flooding, mudslides, and power outages.
- The state is bracing for the potential impact of this weather system, highlighting the need for preparedness and effective response measures to mitigate the risks posed by such intense weather phenomena.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q 5. Consider the following statement with reference to atmospheric river :
1. It is a weather system that brought floods in Pakistan recently. 2. It is a weather system that brings rainfall to the US West Coast. 3. It is a weather system that primarily affects the European continent. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 1, 2 and 3 D. None of them |
Q. The jet aircrafts fly very easily and smoothly in the lower stratosphere. What could be the appropriate explanation? (UPSC Prelims 2011)
1. There are no clouds or water vapour in the lower stratosphere 2. There are no vertical winds in the lower stratosphere. Which of the statements given above is/are correct in this context? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 Answer : C
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| Answer 5– B
Explanation · An atmospheric river is a weather system characterized by a flow of moisture that periodically heads east from waters adjacent to the Hawaiian Islands to soak the US West Coast. · This weather phenomenon, often referred to as a “Pineapple Express,” derives its name from the plume of moisture that stretches back across the Pacific to near Hawaii. · Therefore, correct answer is option B.
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EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme
Source : Education Times
UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS 2 (Government Schemes and Initiatives)
Context: Union Minister Launches EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme
Why in news
- In a significant move towards ensuring equal access to quality education, the Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship recently launched the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme.
Key highlights
- This initiative aims to bridge the gap between secondary and higher education, providing financial support to deserving students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
- The Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme represents a holistic approach to empowerment, recognizing the importance of education in transforming lives.
- It seeks to create opportunities for students, particularly those belonging to marginalized sections of society, by offering them the means to pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints.
- To accomplish its mission, the Vidyanjali programme intends to collaborate with non-government partners and tap into private sources of funding, such as CSR grants, national and international donors, and impact investors.
- By engaging multiple stakeholders, the programme aims to leverage resources and ensure sustainable support for deserving students.
- Initially, the Vidyanjali programme will focus on students in grades XI and XII studying in Navodaya Vidyalayas across the country.
- These students, who have demonstrated exceptional merit, will benefit from the financial assistance provided through the programme.
- To streamline the scholarship disbursal process, a fintech platform has been specifically curated under the Vidyanjali umbrella.
- This platform will serve as a one-stop solution for capturing data, receiving and hosting student applications, tracking student progress, monitoring fund disbursement, and generating impact reports towards the realization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Apart from its administrative functionalities, the platform will also highlight individual student achievements, publicly acknowledge the invaluable support of funders, and showcase the effective utilization of funds.
- By doing so, it aims to foster a sense of community and create a positive impact on the lives of the beneficiaries.
About The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme
- The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme is an initiative of Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), the only Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
- Since its establishment in 1981, EdCIL has been at the forefront of providing consultancy and technical services in various areas of Education and Human Resource Development, not only within the country but also on a global scale.
- Recognized as a ‘Mini Ratna Organisation’ by the Government of India, EdCIL has successfully collaborated with state and central government departments, PSUs, and autonomous bodies, including prestigious institutions like IITs, IIMs, IIITs, Kendriya Vidyalaya, and Navodaya Vidyalaya.
- Its expertise and experience in the field of education make it a trusted partner in implementing initiatives that promote inclusive and equitable access to education.
Conclusion
- In conclusion, the launch of the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme represents a significant step towards fostering a society where every student has an equal opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations.
- By providing financial support and resources, this initiative aims to empower deserving students and create a more inclusive educational landscape.
- Through partnerships with non-governmental organizations and private sources of funding, the programme seeks to ensure sustained support and transform the lives of countless students across the country.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q.6 Consider the following statement with reference to EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme :
1. The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship provides financial support to deserving students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. 2. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between secondary and higher education.
Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
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Q. The jet aircrafts fly very easily and smoothly in the lower stratosphere. What could be the appropriate explanation? (UPSC Prelims 2011)
1. There are no clouds or water vapour in the lower stratosphere 2. There are no vertical winds in the lower stratosphere. Which of the statements given above is/are correct in this context? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 Answer : C
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| Answer 6: C
Explanation
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