Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (27-09-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Science and Technology: 3 PARAM Rudra supercomputers |
| International Relations: India elected to GlobE Steering Committee on combating corruption |
| Appointments: CAG of India assumes chairmanship of Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions for 2024-2027 |
| Polity and Governance: National Conference on PESA Act in New Delhi |
| Environment: Despite protests, EU to implement deforestation regulation from Dec 30 |
PARAM Rudra Supercomputers
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 –Science and Technology
Context: PARAM Rudra supercomputers and National Supercomputing Mission
Why in News
- Prime Minister launched three PARAM Rudra supercomputers.
Overview
- Recently, three indigenously developed PARAM Rudra supercomputers were launched under India’s National Supercomputing Mission.
- This initiative is a significant step in advancing India’s technological capabilities and fostering scientific research across multiple disciplines.
PARAM Rudra Supercomputers:
- Three supercomputers, developed at a cost of ₹130 crore, are now operational in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata.
- These systems will support pioneering scientific research in various fields.
- The Giant Metre Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Pune will use these supercomputers to explore astronomical phenomena such as Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs).
- The Inter University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) in Delhi will utilize the systems for research in material science and atomic physics.
- The S.N. Bose Centre in Kolkata will conduct advanced research in physics, cosmology, and earth sciences.
National Supercomputing Mission:
- Launched in 2015, the National Supercomputing Mission aims to develop high-performance computing (HPC) systems indigenously.
- The PARAM Rudra supercomputers represent India’s progress in quantum computing, which will benefit sectors like IT, manufacturing, MSMEs, and startups.
- These systems will support critical research and contribute to India’s global competitiveness in scientific and technological fields.
High-Performance Computing (HPC) System for Weather & Climate:
- An ₹850 crore High-Performance Computing (HPC) system tailored for weather and climate research was also introduced.
- This system, located at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune and the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecast (NCMRWF) in Noida, is named ‘Arka’ and ‘Arunika’, symbolizing their connection to the Sun.
- These HPC systems will significantly improve the accuracy and lead time of predictions for tropical cyclones, thunderstorms, droughts, and other critical weather events.
Technological Advancements for Broad Impact:
- The newly launched supercomputers are designed to have a far-reaching impact on both high-end scientific research and applications that benefit broader society.
- The mission emphasizes using technology to empower various sectors, including MSMEs and startups, while also enhancing India’s research capabilities in fields like space science and material research.
Future Aspirations:
- Preparations for Mission Gaganyaan, which aims to establish India’s own space station by 2035, are underway, marking another major milestone in India’s space exploration efforts.
- Additionally, India is building its semiconductor ecosystem, which will play a key role in the global supply chain.
Significance for India’s Technological Growth
- The launch of PARAM Rudra supercomputers and the High-Performance Computing systems represents a major leap in India’s computational power.
- These systems will not only advance scientific research but also enhance weather forecasting accuracy, improving preparedness for natural disasters.
- The supercomputers signify a strategic step toward boosting India’s capabilities in science, technology, and research.
What is a Supercomputer?
- A supercomputer is a computer that performs at or near the currently highest operational rate for computers.
- Generally, PETAFLOP is a measure of a Supercomputer’s processing speed and can be expressed as a thousand trillion floating point operations per second.
- FLOPS (floating point operations per second) are typically used to measure the performance of a computer’s processor.
- Using floating-point encoding, extremely long numbers can be handled relatively easily.
- Supercomputers are primarily designed to be used in enterprises and organizations that require massive computing power.
- For example: weather forecasting, scientific research, intelligence gathering and analysis, data mining etc.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. Consider the following statements about the PARAM Rudra Supercomputers:
Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Which one of the following-is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned? (2022)
a. Cloud Services b. Quantum Computing c. Visible Light Communication Technologies d. Wireless Communication Technologies Ans: b |
| Answer 1- B
Explanation:
|
India elected to GlobE Steering Committee on combating corruption
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: GlobE Steering Committee
Why in News
- India was elected to the 15-member GlobE Steering Committee during the plenary session held in Beijing.
Overview
- India was elected to the 15-member Steering Committee of the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network) on September 26, 2024, during a plenary session held in Beijing.
- This election followed a multistage voting process, recognizing India’s prominent role in the global fight against corruption.
Role in Steering Committee:
- As a member of the Steering Committee, India will play a crucial role in shaping global strategies against corruption and the recovery of illicit assets.
- India’s expertise in fighting corruption will contribute significantly to the GlobE Network’s objectives.
What is the GlobE Network?
- The GlobE Network was initiated by the G-20 and received support from India in 2020.
- It was officially launched on June 3, 2021, at a special event during the UN General Assembly Special Session against Corruption.
- The network currently includes 121 member countries and 219 member authorities.
- It serves as an international platform for cooperation in combating corruption, particularly in cases involving cross-border financial crimes.
India’s Role in the Network:
- The Ministry of Home Affairs is India’s central authority for the GlobE Network.
- The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are India’s primary authorities representing the country within the network.
Structure and Objectives:
- The Steering Committee provides leadership for the network and consists of one chair, one vice-chair, and 13 other members.
- The network focuses on sharing best practices, criminal intelligence, and developing strategies to fight corruption.
- It supports law enforcement agencies across the world in their common goal of tackling corruption and facilitating asset recovery.
India’s Contributions to the GloBE Network:
- During India’s G-20 Presidency in 2023, two key high-level principles for combating corruption were adopted:
- Leveraging the GloBE Network for international cooperation.
- Enhancing transparency and sharing criminal intelligence to fight corruption more effectively.
India’s election to the Steering Committee reinforces its leadership in the global fight against corruption and enables it to contribute actively to international efforts to prevent, detect, and prosecute financial crimes.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q2. With reference to the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network), consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to the “United Nations Credentials Committee”, consider the following statements: (2022)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Ans: a |
| Answer 2 – B
Explanation:
|
CAG of India assumes chairmanship of Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions for 2024-2027
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/turkey-brics-eu-accession-9569493/
UPSC Relevance: Appointments, GS 2 International Relations
Context: Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions
Why in News
- The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India assumed chairmanship of the Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) for 2024-2027.
Overview
- Recently, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, assumed the chairmanship of the Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) for the term 2024-2027.
- This marks a significant milestone for India in regional cooperation in the field of public auditing.
Expansion of ASOSAI:
- The 16th Assembly of ASOSAI now includes 48 Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs), signifying an increase in membership.
- The Assembly brought together 200 delegates from 42 countries, including the heads of 22 SAIs.
Focus Areas:
- The Assembly aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and good governance through public auditing.
- The discussions focused on strategic planning and capacity development for the member countries.
Working Groups and Strategic Plans:
- Several working groups were proposed to enhance specific areas of public auditing:
- Working Group on State-Owned Enterprise (led by SAI Malaysia).
- Working Group on IT Audit and Data Analytics (led by SAI India).
- Working Group on Regional and Municipal Audit (led by SAI Russia).
- The Assembly reviewed the mid-term progress of ASOSAI’s Strategic Plan 2022-2027, which provides the roadmap for the organization’s future initiatives.
Important Meetings:
- The 5th ASOSAI Grant Committee meeting and the 60th ASOSAI Governing Board Meeting were key events, where strategic and financial reports were approved.
- The meeting also reviewed the progress of the Bangkok Declaration 2021, introduced new collaborations, research projects, and proposed regulatory reforms for ASOSAI.
Significance for India:
- India’s chairmanship of ASOSAI provides an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation in auditing and governance.
- By leading the Working Group on IT Audit and Data Analytics, India will play a crucial role in enhancing technological auditing practices, which is increasingly important in today’s data-driven environment.
- India’s leadership will also promote good governance, transparency, and accountability in public auditing, contributing to the broader objectives of ASOSAI for its member nations.
About the Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institution (ASOSAI)
- The 16th Assembly of ASOSAI was recently organised in New Delhi to enhance transparency, accountability, and good governance.
- The event brought top public auditors from across Asia on one platform, and more than 200 delegates from 42 countries and international organisations participated in this Assembly.
- In September 2024, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India assumed the chairmanship of the Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) for 2024-2027.
About Comptroller And Auditor General (CAG)
- It was established under Article 148 of the Indian Constitution.
- It audits and examines how the Union and State governments spend their funds.
- It reviews autonomous bodies and companies financially supported by the government.
- He ensures that all money entering and leaving the Consolidated Fund of India is appropriately audited.
- He acts as the auditor for government-owned companies like the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) or the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC).
- The President of India appoints him, and his salary is equal to that of a Supreme Court Judge.
- He serves for a six-year term or until age 65, whichever comes first.
- h) He is the external auditor for United Nations (UN) organisations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q3. Which of the following statements regarding the Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2016)
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 Ans: (b) |
| Answer 3 B
Explanation
|
National Conference on PESA Act in New Delhi
Source: PIB
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 Polity and Governance
Context: Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996
Why in News
- The National Conference on the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), inaugurated recently.
Overview
- The National Conference on the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), represents a significant commitment to enhancing governance and development in Scheduled Areas across India.
- The conference was inaugurated at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, with over 500 participants from ten PESA States, including State Panchayati Raj Ministers, senior officials from Central and State Departments, and representatives from the Panchayati Raj system and NGOs.
- The event underscores a nationwide commitment to effectively implementing the PESA Act.
Key features
- A notable feature was the launch of the PESA – GPDP Portal and Seven Specialized Training Modules designed to enhance the effectiveness of Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs).
- These resources aim to ensure that the benefits of the PESA Act reach grassroots levels, promoting holistic development in Scheduled Areas.
- Ministers from various states shared progress on PESA implementation, discussing financial provisions, integration with related Acts, and efforts to promote economic self-reliance while preserving cultural values.
Government Initiatives and Capacity Building
- The government has launched several initiatives like the Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) and the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan, aimed at bridging gaps in social infrastructure, health, education, and livelihood for tribal communities.
- Capacity-building efforts initiated by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj will help office bearers of PESA Gram Sabhas become familiar with their rights and responsibilities, which is crucial for effective PESA implementation.
Significance
- The National Conference on PESA serves as a platform to enhance the understanding of the Act among stakeholders, harmonize it with other relevant laws, and encourage states like Jharkhand and Odisha to finalize their PESA Rules.
- Overall, the conference marks a significant step toward ensuring that the benefits of the PESA Act reach tribal communities, facilitating their development while preserving their cultural heritage.
- The emphasis on training and resource availability aims to create a sustainable and inclusive framework for governance in Scheduled Areas.
What is the PESA Act?
- The PESA Act was enacted in 1996 “to provide for the extension of the provisions of Part IX of the Constitution relating to the Panchayats to the Scheduled Areas”.
- Part IX, comprising Articles 243-243ZT of the Constitution, contains provisions relating to municipalities and cooperative societies.
Provisions:
- Under the Act, Scheduled Areas are those referred to in Article 244(1), which says that the provisions of the Fifth Schedule shall apply to the Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes in states other than Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- The Fifth Schedule provides for a range of special provisions for these areas.
- Ten states — Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Telangana — have notified Fifth Schedule areas that cover (partially or fully) several districts in each of these states.
Objectives:
- To ensure self-governance through Gram Sabhas (village assemblies) for people living in the Scheduled Areas.
- It recognises the right of tribal communities, who are residents of the Scheduled Areas, to govern themselves through their own systems of self-government, and also acknowledges their traditional rights over natural resources.
- Empowers Gram Sabhas to play a key role in approving development plans and controlling all social sectors.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Consider the following statements:
Statement 1: The PESA – GPDP Portal launched during the conference is designed to enhance Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs). Which of the following is correct? A) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are true. |
Q. The Government enacted the Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act in 1996. Which one of the following is not identified as its objective? (2013)
(a) To provide self-governance (b) To recognize traditional rights (c) To create autonomous regions in tribal areas (d) To free tribal people from exploitation
Ans c |
| Answer 4 B
Explanation
|
Despite protests, EU to implement deforestation regulation from Dec 30
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Ecology and Environment
Context: EU deforestation regulation (EUDR)
Why in news
- The EU has said that it will go ahead with the implementation of its controversial EU deforestation regulation (EUDR) despite strong protests from countries including India, Brazil, Indonesia and the US at the WTO.
Overview
- The European Union (EU) is moving forward with the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), scheduled for December 30, 2024, despite considerable opposition from various countries and industry stakeholders at the World Trade Organization (WTO).
- This regulation aims to combat deforestation linked to trade and is a significant legislative step by the EU to address environmental concerns, particularly regarding forests.
Implementation Commitment
- The EU Commission has confirmed that any postponement of the EUDR would necessitate a legislative change, which they view as counterproductive to providing legal certainty for economic operators.
- The Commission is focused on ensuring all necessary elements, including guidance for economic operators, member states, and an IT system, are prepared by the deadline.
Industry Concerns:
- The feed industry representatives, specifically FEFAC, expressed that unresolved logistical and legal issues concerning the EUDR could disrupt established trade patterns.
- There is a significant concern regarding the lack of updated compliance guidance since December 2023, which is critical for operators to prepare adequately.
Calls for Postponement:
- Various stakeholders, including industry lobbies such as Copa-Cogeca, timber, and paper associations, have demanded an immediate delay to the EUDR’s enforcement, arguing that the current timeline is unfeasible.
- Seven EU member states have not yet designated competent authorities for national implementation, further complicating the regulatory landscape.
WTO Involvement:
- WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has suggested that the EU rethink the EUDR due to unclear compliance guidelines, which leave exporters uncertain about the fate of their goods at EU borders.
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also called for a postponement of the EUDR, reflecting the growing concern among political leaders about the readiness of the regulation.
Potential Delays:
- Industry experts predict a “delay by default” scenario, where the lack of proper guidance and resources for both operators and competent control authorities may result in an ineffective rollout of the regulation.
- Without adequate guidance, even if the EU issues new directives, they might come too late to impact compliance in time for the December 31 deadline.
Temporary Guidance Solutions:
- In response to the gaps in official guidance, industry bodies like FEDIOL and COCERAL have begun publishing their own compliance guidelines to help operators navigate the requirements of the EUDR.
- There is frustration expressed by advocacy groups like Mighty Earth, who argue that the EU’s delay in providing critical compliance information is detrimental to effective preparation by companies and nations.
Environmental Context:
- Proponents of the EUDR stress the urgency of taking decisive political action to protect forests, which are vital for addressing climate change and biodiversity loss.
- Deforestation is identified as a major environmental threat, and the EUDR is part of the EU’s broader commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
Concerns
- The EUDR’s implementation reflects the EU’s commitment to tackling deforestation and promoting sustainable trade practices.
- However, the resistance from various stakeholders, combined with the uncertainties surrounding compliance and operational readiness, highlights the challenges of executing environmental regulations in a global trade context.
- The situation calls for effective communication, collaboration, and swift action from the EU to ensure that all stakeholders are adequately prepared for the upcoming regulation.
EU’s new Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR)
- The Regulation is part of a broader plan of actions to tackle deforestation and forest degradation first outlined in the 2019 Commission Communication on Stepping up EU Action to Protect and Restore the World’s Forests.
- This commitment was later confirmed by the European Green Deal, the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the Farm to Fork Strategy.
- ‘Deforestation-free’ means they must not result from recent (post December 31, 2020) deforestation, forest degradation, or breaches of local environmental and social laws.
- The main driver of these processes is the expansion of agricultural land that is linked to the production of commodities like cattle, wood, cocoa, soy, palm oil, coffee, rubber, and some of their derived products, such as leather, chocolate, tyres, or furniture.
- Under the Regulation, any operator or trader who places these commodities on the EU market, or exports from it, must be able to prove that the products do not originate from recently deforested land or have contributed to forest degradation.
Objectives
The new rules aim to
- avoid that the listed products Europeans buy, use and consume contribute to deforestation and forest degradation in the EU and globally.
- reduce carbon emissions caused by EU consumption and production of the relevant commodities by at least 32 million metric tonnes a year.
- address all deforestation driven by agricultural expansion to produce the commodities in the scope of the regulation, as well as forest degradation.
India and EUDR
- India is particularly concerned as the EUDR could significantly impact its exports to the EU, estimated at $1.3 billion.
- The regulation targets seven commodities and their derivatives, potentially affecting a wide range of Indian exports such as meat products, leather, chocolate, coffee, palm oil derivatives, rubber products, soybeans, wood products, and more.
Concern over Benchmarking
- Critics, including Indonesia and India, raised concerns about the EUDR’s ‘benchmarking system’ for categorizing regions as high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk for deforestation.
- Confusion surrounded the categorization process, prompting questions about its rationale and conditions from India.
- Other countries criticized the one-size-fits-all approach and the lack of effective compliance support systems.
- Limited time for compliance and high costs, particularly burdensome for small producers, were highlighted as significant issues.
- The EU affirmed its determination to proceed with implementation, emphasizing reliance on scientific data and internationally recognized sources for categorizing countries.
- India emphasized the need to protect low-income farmers from the high compliance costs of the regulation.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5. Which of the following statements regarding the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is correct?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. “Climate Action Tracker” which monitors the emission reduction pledges of different countries is a : (2022)
Ans: a |
| Answer 5 B
Explanation
|