Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (24-07-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Economy: Climate finance taxonomy, announced by FM Sitharaman |
| Corridor projects for Bihar’s Vishnupad and Mahabodhi temples, announced |
| With ₹2.65 lakh crore outlay, Railways to prioritise safety |
| Polity and Government: Supreme Court delivers split verdict on nod for GM mustard |
| Science and technology: What are ‘Bharat Small Reactors’ and small modular reactors? |
Climate finance taxonomy
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/everyday-explainers/climate-finance-taxonomy-9470655/
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Economy, Ecology and Environment
Context: Climate Finance Taxonomy
Why in News
- While presenting the Union Budget for 2024-25, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the government’s plan to create a ‘climate finance taxonomy.’
What is a climate finance Taxonomy?
- A climate finance taxonomy is a system that classifies which parts of the economy may be marketed as sustainable investments.
- It helps guide investors and banks in directing trillions toward impactful investments to tackle climate change.
- Taxonomies are frequently used to set standards for classifying climate-related financial instruments (e.g., green bonds), but, increasingly, they serve other use cases where the benchmarking feature is viewed as beneficial, including in the areas of climate risk management, net-zero transition planning, and climate disclosure.
Why is a taxonomy significant?
- With global temperatures soaring, and the adverse effects of climate change exacerbating, countries need to transition to a net-zero economy — the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) that is produced, and the amount that is removed from the atmosphere.
- Taxonomies can play a pivotal role in doing this as they can help ascertain if economic activities are aligned with credible, science-based transition pathways. They can also give impetus to deployment of climate capital, and reduce the risks of greenwashing.
- For India, a taxonomy could bring in more climate funds from international sources. Currently, green finance flows in India are falling far short of the country’s current needs — they only account for around 3% of total FDI inflows to India, according to the Landscape of Green Finance in India 2022 report, published by Climate Policy Initiative.
- One reason for abysmally low green finance flows has been a lack of clarity in what constitutes sustainable activity.
What is the potential for green investments in India?
- India has a climate-smart investment potential of $ 3.1 trillion from 2018 to 2030, according to a report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
- The largest space for investment is in the electric-vehicle segment, at $ 667 billion as India aims to electrify all of its new vehicles by 2030.
- India’s renewable energy sector also continues to be a good investment avenue at $ 403.7 billion.
Do other countries have taxonomies?
- Many countries have either started to work on their taxonomy or finalised one. South Africa, Colombia, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Canada, and Mexico are some of the countries which have developed taxonomies.
- The European Union has done this as well.
What are India’s climate commitments?
- India aims to achieve net-zero economy by 2070. It has also pledged to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030, from the 2005 level.
- India has committed to achieve about 50% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030 as well.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. Consider the following statements about climate finance taxonomy:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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Q. Which one of the following best describes the term “greenwashing”? (2022)
A. Conveying a false impression that a company’s products are eco-friendly and environmentally sound B. Non-inclusion of ecological/ environmental costs in the Annual Financial Statements of a country C. Ignoring the disastrous ecological consequences while undertaking infrastructure development D. Making mandatory provisions for environmental costs in a government project/programme Ans: A |
| Answer 1 – A
Explanation
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Corridor projects for Bihar’s Vishnupad and Mahabodhi temples, announced
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS 1- Art and Culture, GS 3- Budget
Context: Vishnupad Temple in Gaya and the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar.
Why in News
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the construction of corridor projects for the Vishnupad Temple in Gaya and the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar.
Vishnupad Temple at Gaya
- The Vishnupad Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities of Hinduism known as the preserver and protector of the universe.
- The temple is tied to a significant legend involving a demon, or asura, named Gayasur.
Legend of Gayasur:
- Gayasur, in his quest for power, requested a boon from the gods that anyone who saw him would attain moksha, which is liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
- However, Gayasur misused this divine power, creating chaos and imbalance.
- To restore order, Lord Vishnu intervened by placing his right foot on Gayasur’s head, thereby sending him to the netherworld, known as paatal lok.
- The temple houses a 40cm-long footprint, which is believed to be the exact spot where Lord Vishnu placed his foot on Gayasur’s head. This footprint is central to the temple’s significance and reverence.
Religious Significance:
- The Vishnupad Temple holds special importance during the period of pitra paksh, a sacred time in the Hindu calendar dedicated to honoring ancestors.
- Devotees visit the temple to perform rituals and ceremonies to pay respects and seek blessings for their departed loved ones.
Architectural Features:
- The temple is an architectural marvel standing approximately 100 feet tall, featuring 44 intricately designed pillars.
- It is situated on the banks of the Falgu river, adding to its serene and picturesque location.
- The current structure of the temple was commissioned and built in 1787 by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Ahmadnagar, a noted patron of Hindu temples and architecture.
- The temple’s design and construction reflect the traditional Hindu temple architecture of the time, combining spiritual significance with aesthetic grandeur.
UNESCO World Heritage Site:
- The Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its global cultural and historical significance.
- UNESCO Listing: The UNESCO listing for the Mahabodhi Temple Complex emphasizes its historical and architectural value. It acknowledges the temple’s influence on the development of brick architecture and highlights its importance as one of the earliest surviving brick structures from the Gupta period.
- Tourism and Infrastructure: UNESCO notes the increasing number of national and international pilgrims and tourists visiting the site. This influx necessitates the development of infrastructure and public amenities. Any proposals for development will require Heritage Impact Assessments to ensure that the religious and spiritual significance of the site is preserved while accommodating the needs of visitors.
Historical Significance:
- The temple is located to the east of the Mahabodhi Tree, the sacred spot where Gautam Buddha is believed to have attained nirvana, or enlightenment.
- This makes the site one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists worldwide.
Architectural Features:
- Height and Shape: The temple is uniquely shaped and stands 170 feet tall.
- Construction and History: According to UNESCO, the original temple was built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century B.C. The present structure, however, dates back to the 5th-6th centuries. It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples constructed entirely of brick, a hallmark of the late Gupta period. This construction method had a significant influence on the development of brick architecture over the centuries.
Importance of Bihar in National Context
- Recent Budget Announcements: The 2024 Union Budget includes several important announcements for Bihar, focusing on areas such as tourism and infrastructure. These developments are expected to enhance the state’s appeal as a tourist destination and improve the quality of life for its residents.
- Political Importance: Bihar holds significant importance in national politics. In the 2024 general elections, the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United) secured 12 seats in the state. As part of the 293-member NDA coalition ruling at the Centre, the BJP emerged as the largest party with 240 seats, though this was below the majority mark of 272. This makes the BJP reliant on smaller allies such as the JD(U) in Bihar and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in Andhra Pradesh, which secured 16 seats.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya:
Which of the statements given above are correct?
|
Q. Who among the following rulers advised his subjects through this inscription? (2020)
“Whosoever praises his religious sect or blames other sects out of excessive devotion to his own sect, with the view of glorifying his own sect, he rather injures his own sect very severely.” (a) Ashoka (b) Samundragupta (c) Harshavardhana (d) Krishanadeva Raya |
| Answer 2– A
Explanation –
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Budget 2024: With ₹2.65 lakh crore outlay, Railways to prioritise safety
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 3- Transportation, Economy
Context: Budget allocation for Railway Ministry
Why in News
- The Ministry of Railways has received a record allocation of over ₹2.55 lakh crore in financial year 2024-25, which is a jump of 5.85% from the previous year’s ₹2.41 lakh crore, according to Union Budget documents.
Record Allocation and Capital Expenditure
- For the financial year 2024-25, the Ministry of Railways has been allocated a record amount of over ₹2.55 lakh crore, marking a 5.85% increase from the previous year’s allocation of ₹2.41 lakh crore.
- This budget is dedicated to various capital expenditures, including the acquisition of assets, construction, and replacement of existing infrastructure.
- The total capital outlay of ₹2.65 lakh crore is sourced from:
- ₹2.52 lakh crore from general revenues
- ₹200 crore from the Nirbhaya Fund
- ₹3,000 crore from internal resources
- ₹10,000 crore from extra budgetary resources
- This allocation represents a significant increase from the ₹35,000 crore spent on capital expenditure for railways in 2014.
- The current budget emphasizes enhancing safety measures, improving comfort, increasing capacity, and upgrading infrastructure.
Operating Ratio
- The operating ratio for Indian Railways for the financial year 2022-23 was 98.10%, indicating the proportion of revenue spent on operational expenses.
- For FY2024-25, this ratio is projected to increase slightly to 98.22%.
- The operating ratio measures how many rupees are spent to earn every hundred rupees of revenue, reflecting the efficiency of railway operations.
Safety and Technology
- A major focus of the current budget is on safety improvements, with a particular emphasis on the rapid installation of the Kavach 4.0 Automatic Train Protection system.
- Kavach is a comprehensive system that includes hardware, software, and optical fiber components.
- The challenge lies in integrating this technology across India’s diverse railway network to enhance safety.
Employment and New Projects
- The railway sector is also focusing on employment generation, with plans to create between 38,000 to 40,000 new jobs.
- This is a continuation of previous efforts that saw the creation of up to five lakh jobs over the past two terms.
- Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on new railway projects and improving connectivity. This includes expanding services to regions such as Kashmir and connecting all capitals of Northeastern states.
- The procurement of new rolling stock and the development of advanced train services, such as Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat trains, and Vande Metro, are key priorities.
Kavach
- Kavach is an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system designed to enhance safety and efficiency on railway networks.
- The name “Kavach” translates to “shield” in Hindi, reflecting its purpose to protect and safeguard the railway operations.
- Kavach is an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system developed indigenously by Indian Railways through the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO).
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||||
Q 3. Match the Following Pairs
Options: a) 1-B, 2-C, 3-A, 4-D, 5-E |
Q. Consider the following communication technologies: (2022)
Which of the above are considered Short-Range devices/technologies? (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (d) |
| Answer 3 A
Explanation
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Supreme Court delivers split verdict on nod for GM mustard
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance, Judiciary
Context: Genetically modified (GM) mustard crops
Why in News
- The Supreme Court pronounced a split verdict on the validity of the Centre’s 2022 decision granting conditional approval for environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard crops.
Supreme Court’s Split Verdict on GM Mustard Crops
- The Supreme Court of India delivered a split verdict concerning the Centre’s 2022 decision to grant conditional approval for the environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard crops.
- This verdict marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over GM crops in India.
Background of the Case
- Approval Process: On October 18, 2022, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, recommended the environmental release of a GM mustard hybrid known as DMH-11.
- This recommendation was based on assessments of the crop’s safety and potential benefits.
- Government Decision: Following GEAC’s recommendation, the Indian government approved the environmental release of DMH-11 on October 25, 2022. This decision was a significant step towards the potential commercialization of GM mustard in India.
Supreme Court’s Split Verdict
- Justices Involved: The Bench comprised Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Sanjay Karol. They delivered a split verdict, meaning that while both judges agreed on the need for a national policy on GM crops, they differed in their views on the specifics of the case.
- National Policy Directive: The court instructed the Centre to develop a comprehensive national policy regarding GM crops. This policy should cover various aspects, including:
- Research: Guidelines for scientific research on GM crops.
- Cultivation: Rules for the cultivation of GM crops.
- Trade and Commerce: Regulations governing the trade and commercialization of GM crops.
- The policy should be formulated after extensive consultations with stakeholders such as:
- Experts in agriculture and biotechnology.
- State governments.
- Representatives from the farming community.
Future Proceedings
- Referral to a Larger Bench: The case will be referred to a three-judge Bench, which will be constituted by the Chief Justice of India. This larger Bench will address the issues raised and review the case comprehensively.
- National Consultation: The court emphasized the need for a national consultation to be conducted, preferably within the next four months. This consultation is intended to gather input from various stakeholders and ensure that the national policy is well-informed and balanced.
Implications and Next Steps
- Policy Development: The development of a national policy on GM crops is expected to address the regulatory, environmental, and socio-economic aspects of GM crop cultivation and commercialization. It will aim to provide a clear framework for the responsible use of GM technology.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging a diverse range of stakeholders in the policy-making process will help address concerns and incorporate various perspectives, ensuring that the policy is inclusive and considers the interests of all parties involved.
- Future Legal Proceedings: The referral to a larger Bench signifies that the legal scrutiny of GM crops and their regulation will continue. The outcomes of this process will have a significant impact on the future of GM crop technology in India.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Consider the following statements:
Statement 1: Genetically modified (GM) crops are engineered to express traits that are not naturally found in the species. Which of the following is correct?
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Q. Consider the following statements: (2020)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d) |
| Answer 4 B
Explanation
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Budget 2024: What are ‘Bharat Small Reactors’ and small modular reactors?
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Nuclear technology, Science and Technology
Context: Bharat Small Reactors and small modular reactors
Why in news
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans to develop Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) as part of India’s push to expand its nuclear energy capabilities.
Overview of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
- Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are compact versions of traditional large nuclear power plants, designed to be safer and more flexible in deployment.
- They have fewer operational components and advanced safety features, which contribute to their improved safety profile.
- Their smaller size allows for deployment in a variety of locations, making them suitable for areas where large nuclear plants might not be feasible.
Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)
- Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) are compact nuclear reactors designed to generate electricity on a smaller scale compared to traditional large nuclear power plants.
- They are based on the 220-megawatt pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) technology, which is already established in India.
Key Features:
- Technology Base: BSRs are derived from India’s proven PHWR technology. India operates 16 PHWR units, making this technology familiar and tested.
- Private Sector Participation: The development and deployment of BSRs mark a significant shift in India’s nuclear policy. The government is now open to partnering with the private sector, a move previously restricted under the Atomic Energy Act of 1962.
- Deployment: BSRs are designed to be more flexible in terms of siting and can be deployed faster compared to large-scale nuclear reactors. This flexibility can address energy needs in remote areas and provide power for large industries.
Advantages of Bharat Small Reactors
- Flexibility in Siting: BSRs can be installed in a variety of locations, including remote or less accessible areas, making them suitable for diverse geographic conditions.
- Faster Deployment: Smaller reactors can be constructed and commissioned more quickly than large nuclear power plants, allowing for a quicker response to energy demands.
- Cost-Effectiveness: BSRs potentially offer a more cost-effective solution due to their smaller scale and the use of existing technology.
- Energy Supply for Industries: They are ideal for providing captive power to large industries like cement and steel, which require a substantial and reliable energy supply.
Distinction from Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
- While Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are a new concept involving factory-made, easily assembled reactors, Bharat Small Reactors are based on the existing PHWR technology.
- SMRs typically represent an entirely new design and construction approach, whereas BSRs leverage established technology adapted for smaller-scale use.
Clean Energy Strategy
- BSRs are part of India’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and transition towards cleaner energy sources.
- Nuclear power, including BSRs, is seen as a viable alternative to thermal power for providing baseload electricity, which is crucial for meeting India’s growing energy needs and achieving environmental goals.
Global Context
- Globally, SMRs have gained traction as countries face challenges in maximizing renewable energy due to issues like inadequate energy storage solutions and the concentration of key mineral processing in certain countries, such as China.
- Despite the push for renewable energy, the continued demand for reliable power, particularly in sectors like transportation, maintains the relevance of fossil-fuel-based power generation facilities.
Current Research and Development in India
- In India, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Mumbai is actively researching SMRs to evaluate their feasibility and implementation.
- The Bharat Small Reactor (BSR) is a specific initiative related to SMRs but with distinct features. At the Madras Atomic Power Station in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, India operates two nuclear reactors, each with a capacity of 220 MW.
- One reactor is undergoing repairs, while the other is being re-engineered to become a BSR.
- This re-engineering involves incorporating advanced safety features and reducing the reactor’s power output to below 300 MW, classifying it as a small reactor.
Future Prospects and Implications
- If successful, this BSR model could be replicated near major power consumption sites, such as steel production facilities, which require a reliable power supply and aim to reduce their carbon footprint.
- The deployment of BSRs and SMRs has the potential to support industries that need reliable, low-carbon power sources, contributing to broader decarbonization goals.
- SMRs can complement existing energy infrastructure, including both renewable sources and traditional power generation facilities, providing a balanced approach to energy production and sustainability.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5. Consider the following statements with regards to Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Bharat Small Reactor (BSR):
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
|
Q. India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage of India? (2016)
Answer: (d) |
| Answer 5 A
Explanation
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