Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (10-07-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: India-Russia joint statement sets $100 bn trade target |
| About ‘Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle’ — Russia’s highest state award conferred on PM Modi? |
| Disaster Management: Govt to launch survey to assess vulnerability of glacial lakes after monsoon |
| Social Issues: DEPwD Signs Two MoUs towards empowering persons with disabilities |
| Science and Technology: Indian scientists develop open-source tool to generate infrared star catalogue for Thirty Meter Telescope |
India-Russia joint statement sets $100 bn trade target
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 International Relations
Context: Indian PM’s visit to Russia
Why in News
- India and Russia have set an ambitious target of $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, with an eye on a free trade pact and to strengthen energy ties through investment deals with Rosneft and leading Russian oil firms.
Condemnation of Terrorist Attacks
The joint statement issued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin strongly condemns recent terrorist attacks in specific regions:
- Jammu and Kashmir: The statement denounces the terrorist attack on an Army convoy in the Kathua area on July 8, 2024.
- Dagestan: It condemns the terrorist incident that occurred on June 23.
- Moscow: The statement expresses solidarity over the attack on the Crocus City Hall on March 22.
These condemnations emphasize the shared stance against terrorism and the necessity for enhanced cooperation in combating this global menace.
Bilateral Trade and Economic Goals
India and Russia have set ambitious targets to strengthen their economic ties:
- Target: The joint statement sets a bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion by 2030, aiming for a significant increase in economic engagement between the two countries.
- Mutual Benefits: Both sides aim for a balanced and sustainable economic partnership that benefits their respective economies and fosters long-term cooperation.
Framework for India Russia Partnership
The statement outlines the framework for a robust and enduring partnership between India and Russia:
- Contemporary Partnership: Emphasizes the need for a modern and adaptable relationship that addresses current global challenges while capitalizing on shared interests and historical ties.
- Mutual Benefit: The partnership aims to be mutually beneficial, ensuring both countries derive advantages across various sectors such as defense, energy, technology, and culture.
- Long-term Sustainability: It underscores the commitment to building a sustainable partnership that extends beyond immediate geopolitical considerations, fostering stability and growth for both nations.
Uncompromising Fight Against Terrorism and Extremism
India and Russia have reiterated their strong commitment to combatting terrorism and extremism globally:
- Joint Commitment: The statement emphasizes the need for an uncompromising fight against international terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
- Cooperation: Both countries underscore the importance of increasing cooperation in this critical area, emphasizing transparency and adherence to international law and the UN Charter.
- Implementation of Resolutions: They stress the necessity of implementing relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly, as well as the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, without tolerance for double standards.
Economic Growth and Trade Achievements
India and Russia have witnessed substantial growth in their economic ties:
- Trade Growth: They acknowledge significant growth in bilateral trade during 2023, which has nearly doubled the initial bilateral trade target of USD 30 billion set for 2025.
- Long-term Objectives: Leaders emphasize the importance of achieving balanced and sustainable bilateral trade over the long term.
- Increasing Indian Exports: There is a strong focus on enhancing Indian exports to Russia through:
- Strengthening industrial cooperation,
- Establishing new technological and investment partnerships, particularly in advanced high-technology sectors,
- Exploring new avenues and forms of cooperation to diversify trade relations.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration
The statement underscores the strategic depth of the India-Russia partnership:
- Industrial Cooperation: Emphasis is placed on deepening industrial collaboration, which includes advancing into high-tech domains.
- Technological Partnerships: Both nations seek to forge new technological partnerships to leverage each other’s strengths in innovation and R&D.
- Investment Opportunities: There is a mutual interest in exploring investment opportunities that benefit both economies, fostering sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.
Bilateral Trade Target and Financial Cooperation
- Ambitious Trade Target: India and Russia have set a new bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion to be achieved by 2030, demonstrating their commitment to significantly boosting economic ties.
- Bilateral Settlement System: Both countries have agreed to develop a bilateral settlement system using their national currencies, aimed at reducing dependence on traditional foreign exchange mechanisms and promoting smoother trade transactions.
- Digital Financial Instruments: They have also committed to integrating digital financial instruments into their mutual settlements, enhancing efficiency and security in financial transactions.
Enhancing Transport and Connectivity
- Expansion of Cargo Routes:
- North-South International Transport Corridor: Both nations will promote the use of this corridor to facilitate faster and more efficient movement of goods between regions.
- Northern Sea Route: Enhancing logistics and transport capabilities through the Arctic route, tapping into its potential for maritime trade.
- Chennai-Vladivostok Sea Line: Introducing a new sea route between Chennai in India and Vladivostok in Russia, aimed at boosting maritime connectivity and trade.
Agricultural and Energy Cooperation
- Agricultural Products and Food: There is a mutual agreement to increase the volume of bilateral trade in agricultural products, food items, and fertilizers, aiming to meet growing demand and enhance food security.
- Energy Sector Collaboration:
- Nuclear Energy: Strengthening cooperation in nuclear energy, emphasizing safety standards and technological advancements.
- Oil Refining and Petrochemicals: Exploring joint ventures and partnerships in oil refining and petrochemical industries to optimize production and distribution.
- Energy Infrastructure and Technologies: Expanded cooperation in energy infrastructure projects, including the development and deployment of advanced technologies and equipment, fostering sustainable energy solutions.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. Consider the following statements with regards to the joint statement issued by Indian PM and Russian President:
Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?
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Q. Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field’ with which of the following countries?(2019)
Answer: (b) |
| Answer 1- C
Explanation:
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Govt to launch survey to assess vulnerability of glacial lakes after monsoon
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Disaster Management
Context: Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)
Why in News
- Four states and a Union territory in the Himalayas will commence ground surveys to determine the vulnerability of glacial lakes after the monsoon season.
Key Highlights
- In response to a recent Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in Sikkim, several states and a Union Territory in the Himalayas are launching a comprehensive ground survey initiative after the monsoon season.
- This initiative aims to assess the vulnerability of glacial lakes and establish monitoring systems to mitigate potential risks.
States Involved and Survey Teams
- States and UT Involved: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are participating in the initiative.
- Survey Teams: Each state and the UT will set up dedicated survey teams comprising officials and experts from agencies such as the National Remote Sensing Centre, Indian Army, and Geological Survey of India.
Objective of the Survey
- Target: The survey will focus on select glacial lakes identified based on their risk profiles, prioritizing those most vulnerable to GLOFs.
- Challenges: Given the remote and high-altitude locations (above 5,000 meters in many cases), the survey teams will face challenges related to harsh weather, difficult terrain, and logistical complexities.
Importance of Ground Surveys
- Enhanced Understanding: While current knowledge relies heavily on remote sensing, ground surveys are essential to comprehensively assess the vulnerability of glacial lakes.
- Risk Mitigation: The initiative aims to provide crucial data for early warning systems and disaster preparedness, aiming to mitigate the impact of potential GLOFs on downstream communities and infrastructure.
Impact of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
- Recent Event: The GLOF in Sikkim resulted in significant casualties and infrastructure damage, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures.
- Causes: GLOFs occur due to factors such as rapid glacier melt, excessive accumulation of water, and triggers like earthquakes, posing serious risks to downstream areas.
Scientific Findings and Concerns
- Glacial Lake Expansion: Recent studies by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) indicate notable expansion of glacial lakes since 1984, with implications for water resources and environmental stability.
- Climate Change Impact: The Himalayan region, known as the Third Pole, is experiencing accelerated glacier retreat and lake formation due to climate change, exacerbating risks associated with GLOFs.
About Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)
- Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are sudden and often catastrophic events that occur when water contained within a glacial lake is released rapidly.
- These floods typically originate from the breach, overtopping, or sudden drainage of glacial lakes, which are formed by the accumulation of meltwater from glaciers.
Causes of GLOFs
- Glacial Melting: Rapid melting of glaciers due to rising temperatures, often exacerbated by climate change, can lead to increased water volumes in glacial lakes.
- Natural Causes: Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or avalanches can trigger GLOFs by destabilizing glacial dams or directly causing lake water to be released.
Characteristics of Glacial Lakes
- Formation: Glacial lakes form as glaciers retreat and leave behind depressions that fill with meltwater.
- Location: These lakes are typically found in high-altitude regions, often above 5,000 meters in the Himalayas and other mountainous areas.
Impacts of GLOFs
- Destruction: GLOFs can cause extensive damage to infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and hydropower facilities, as well as agricultural land and settlements downstream.
- Loss of Life: They pose significant risks to human life, particularly in downstream communities that may be caught off guard by sudden flooding.
Risk Factors and Vulnerability
- Vulnerability: Glacial lakes at risk of GLOFs are often those dammed by unstable moraines or ice, or those with inadequate natural drainage channels.
- Expansion: Climate change-induced glacier retreat can lead to the expansion and growth of existing glacial lakes, increasing the likelihood of GLOFs.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q2. Consider the following Statements with respect to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs):
Which of the statements above are correct? A) 1, 3, and 4 B) 2 and 3 C) 1 and 4 D) 2, 3, and 4 |
Q. When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following: (2012)
Which of the above can be said to be the evidence for Himalayas being young fold mountains? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Ans: (d) |
| Answer 2– A
Explanation:
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About ‘Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle’ — Russia’s highest state award conferred on PM Modi
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 International Relations, Awards and Honours
Context: ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle’.
Why in News
- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been honoured with Russia’s highest state decoration, the ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle’.
Background of the Award
- Prestigious Recognition: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded Russia’s highest state decoration, the ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle’.
- First Indian Leader: PM Modi is the first Indian leader to receive this prestigious award, which underscores its significance in bilateral relations.
Ceremony and Recognition
- Conferment Ceremony: Russian President Vladimir Putin conferred the award on PM Modi during a special ceremony at St Andrew Hall in the Kremlin.
- Acknowledgement of Contribution: The award recognizes PM Modi’s significant contribution towards fostering strong and enduring ties between India and Russia.
Dedication and Gratitude
- Dedication to India: Upon receiving the award, PM Modi dedicated it to the people of India, emphasizing the deep-rooted bonds of friendship between the two nations.
- Gratitude to President Putin: He expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Putin for bestowing upon him Russia’s highest civilian award, highlighting the honour as a reflection of the esteem in which India is held by Russia.
Significance for Bilateral Relations
- Symbol of Strategic Partnership: PM Modi emphasized that the award symbolizes the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia.
- Strengthening Bilateral Ties: This recognition further strengthens the diplomatic and strategic relationship between the two countries, underscoring mutual respect and collaboration.
History and significance of the award
- The Order of St Andrew the Apostle is the highest state decoration of Russia, established by Peter the Great, the first Emperor of Russia, around 1699.
- This makes it the oldest of Russia’s state decorations.
- The order was abolished in 1918 following the Russian Revolution and was later re-established in 1998 by an Executive Order of the President of Russia.
- This prestigious award is presented to outstanding politicians, public figures, and other citizens of Russia for exceptional services that contribute to the prosperity, might, and glory of the country.
- Additionally, it can be awarded to heads of foreign states and governments for distinguished merits to the Russian Federation.
Components of the award
- The Order of St Andrew the Apostle includes a badge, a star, and a light blue silk moire ribbon.
- For those recognised for distinction in combat, the badge and star are adorned with swords.
Prime Minister Modi’s recognition
- In 2019, the Russian government announced this award for Prime Minister Modi, citing his “exceptional services” in promoting the special and privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and fostering friendly relations between the Russian and Indian people.
Notable recipients
- Among the global political figures who have been conferred with this award include former President of Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev, first President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, and China President Xi Jinping.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q3. With regards to Order of St Andrew the Apostle, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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Q. Consider the following statements: (2008)
1. Orange Prize is awarded to a work of published fiction in English by a woman. 2. Prizes awarded by the Commonwealth Foundation to a citizen of any Commonwealth country for any literary work in English. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans. (a) |
| Answer 3 D
Explanation
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DEPwD Signs Two Significant MoUs towards empowering persons with disabilities
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2031861
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 Social Justice
Context: MoUs towards empowering persons with disabilities
Why in News
- Two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are signed by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).
Key Highlights
- The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) took a significant step towards empowering persons with disabilities by signing two important Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) .
- The first MoU was signed between “DEPwD” and “Enable Me” Access Association (EMA), and
- The second MoU was signed between the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Center (ISLRTC) and YUNIKEE.
Mou With Enable Me Access Association (Ema)
- This MoU aims to enhance accessibility infrastructure and education through specialized training programs and policy advocacy.
Objectives of the MoU:
- Training Programs: Launching two advanced accessibility training programs for panel accessibility auditors and engineers of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD).
- Universal Design: Providing training on Universal Design using Indian accessibility standards.
- Dissemination of Knowledge: Creating integrated tools to disseminate knowledge of Indian accessibility standards.
- Policy Support: Supporting the Accessible India Campaign 2.0 and assisting in highlighting and rectifying policies that undermine the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act-2016 and other mandatory guidelines.
MoU between ISLRTC and YUNIKEE
- This MoU focuses on equipping deaf individuals with valuable skills and opportunities for career growth and economic independence.
Objectives of the MoU:
- Skills Training: Providing free and accessible skills training to the deaf community and youth.
- Career Advancement: Empowering deaf youth to advance their careers, secure high-quality jobs, and receive promotions.
- Freelancing Opportunities: Enabling deaf youth to pursue freelancing and become self-reliant in terms of livelihood.
Stakeholders Involved:
- Government Representatives: Joint Secretary Shri Rajiv Sharma and Director Honnareddy N were present during the signing of the MoUs.
- NGO Representatives: Chaitanya Kothapalli from YUNIKEE, Chairman Peter Gibson, and Co-Founder/Director Anubha Singhal from Enable Me Access Association also participated.
Achievements and Goals:
- These agreements signify DEPwD’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowerment for persons with disabilities.
- The initiatives aim to create equal opportunities in education, employment, and social life, promoting the self-reliance and empowerment of individuals with disabilities.
Disability in India
- According to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, a person with a disability is someone who has a long-term impairment that affects their physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory abilities.
- This impairment prevents them from participating fully and effectively in society.
- The four main categories of disability are:
- Behavioural or emotional
- Sensory impaired disorders
- Physical
- Developmental
Status of Disability in India
- According to the World Bank, 5–8% of India’s population have disabilities.
- The NSSO estimates that 2.2% of the population is disabled.
- The NFHS-5 survey (2019–21) found that 4.52% of the population has a disability.
Recent Initiatives to Empowerment of Disables
India:
- Unique Disability Identification Portal
- Accessible India Campaign
- Deen Dayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme
- Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/fitting of Aids and Appliances
- National Fellowship for Students with Disabilities
Global:
- Incheon Strategy to “Make the Right Real” for Persons with Disabilities in Asia and the Pacific.
- United Nations Convention on Rights of Persons with Disability.
- International Day of Persons with Disabilities
- UN Principles for People with Disabilities
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Which of the following schemes/initiatives have a bearing on Persons with Disability?
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
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Q. International Labour Organization’s Conventions 138 and 182 are related to: (2018)
(a) Child Labour (b) Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change (c) Regulation of food prices and food security (d) Gender parity at the workplace Ans: (a) |
| Answer 4 D
Explanation
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Indian scientists develop open-source tool to generate infrared star catalogue for Thirty Meter Telescope
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2031841
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 (Science and Technology)
Context: Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT)
Why in News
- A new online tool to create a comprehensive star catalogue for the Adaptive Optics (AO) system of the upcoming Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT), can enable this ground-based telescope– one of the largest to be operational in the next decade, generate sharper astronomical images.
Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) Project
- The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a ground-based telescope set to become one of the largest operational telescopes in the coming decade.
- It aims to produce sharper astronomical images by overcoming atmospheric distortions through Adaptive Optics (AO) technology.
Importance of Adaptive Optics (AO) for Ground-Based Telescopes
- Telescopes like the TMT face challenges from atmospheric distortion, affecting image quality.
- AO systems like NFIRAOS are essential as they continuously adjust for atmospheric changes to enhance image sharpness.
Need for a Comprehensive Star Catalogue
- To optimize AO performance, the NFIRAOS system requires Natural Guide Stars (NGS) across the sky, particularly bright stars in the near-infrared J waveband.
- Currently, a comprehensive catalogue of NIR stars that meets these requirements does not exist.
Development of the Online Tool for NIR Star Catalogue
- Researchers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) developed an automated code as an online tool to create a catalogue of Near Infrared (NIR) stars.
- This tool computes NIR magnitudes from optical survey data and predicts suitable NGS candidates.
Methodology and Validation
- Using optical photometry data from PAN-STARRS and validating with UKIDSS survey data, the researchers achieved over 85% accuracy in predicting NIR magnitudes.
- This methodology ensures reliable identification of NGS candidates for the TMT’s AO system.
Significance for TMT and Future Research
- The development of this tool addresses the critical need for an all-sky catalogue of NIR stars essential for the success of the TMT.
- It underscores India’s contribution to the TMT project through its research institutions, enhancing global capabilities in ground-based astronomy.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q 5. A new online tool has been developed to create a comprehensive star catalogue for the Adaptive Optics (AO) system of the upcoming Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT). Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the TMT project?
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (A) 2 only (B) 1 and 3 only (C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3 only |
Q. Consider the following (2008):
Assertion (A): Radio waves bend in a magnetic field. Reason (R): Radio waves are electromagnetic in nature. Which of the following is correct? (a) Both A and R are individually true, and R is the correct explanation of A (b) Both A and R are individually true, but R is not the correct explanation of A (c) A is true but R is false (d) A is false but R is true Ans: (a) |
| Answer 5 A
Explanation
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