Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (13-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Defence Technology: DRDO carries maiden test of land attack long range cruise missile |
| Internal Security: MHA approves first all women battalion for CISF |
| Awards and Honors: Booker Prize 2024: British writer Samantha Harvey wins for space-station novel ‘Orbital’ |
| Environment and Ecology: Researchers document huge drop in African elephants in a half century |
| Development lenders set $120 billion climate finance goal for poorer countries |
| Economy: India asks states away from coal to consider nuclear power |
DRDO carries maiden test of land attack long range cruise missile
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Defence Technology
Context: Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)
Why in News
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the maiden flight-test of a Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM).
Overview
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently made significant strides in India’s missile technology by successfully conducting the maiden flight test of an advanced version of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) on November 12, 2024.
Overview of LRLACM
- The LRLACM tested by DRDO is a new variant of the Nirbhay cruise missile, equipped with several enhancements and improvements.
- This missile is designed to be a highly precise, long-range weapon with a standoff range of over 1,000 kilometers, meaning it can strike land targets from a significant distance, keeping the launcher far from enemy defenses.
- It was launched from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, using a mobile articulated launcher, showcasing its versatility in deployment from different platforms.
Specifications and Performance
- The LRLACM is capable of waypoint navigation, which allows it to follow pre-determined paths and change directions mid-flight to avoid detection or interception.
- It can perform complex maneuvers and adjust to varying altitudes and speeds, making it highly adaptable for different mission requirements.
- Equipped with advanced avionics and software, the missile offers improved reliability and precision, factors critical for its performance in real-world conditions.
- Its performance in this test was closely monitored through radar, electro-optical tracking, and telemetry systems deployed across the Integrated Test Range to ensure accurate data collection.
Development and Production Partnerships
- The missile’s development is primarily led by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, with contributions from other DRDO laboratories and Indian industries.
- Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru are critical partners, working as Development-cum-Production-Partners. BDL handles production, while BEL focuses on integration and other technical aspects.
- This collaboration underscores India’s emphasis on indigenously developed defense technology, which enhances self-reliance and reduces dependence on foreign weapon systems.
Approval and Acquisition
- The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), responsible for procurement and acquisitions in Indian defense, had previously sanctioned the procurement of a 1,000-km-range LRLACM in July 2020, recognizing its strategic value.
- The LRLACM is classified as a “Mission Mode Project,” which means it is given priority for accelerated development to meet urgent national security needs.
- The missile is also configured for flexible launch options: it can be deployed from mobile land-based launchers and from warships via a universal vertical launch module, expanding its strategic deployment capabilities.
Comparison with Nirbhay and the U.S. Tomahawk
- The original Nirbhay missile, from which the LRLACM is derived, also had a 1,000 km range and was designed with terrain-hugging capabilities—flying at very low altitudes to evade radar.
- The new LRLACM variant is similar in concept to the U.S. Tomahawk cruise missile, which is known for its accuracy, long range, and standoff capabilities, allowing it to hit targets deep within enemy territory from a safe distance.
- The LRLACM is expected to enhance India’s long-range precision strike capabilities, giving the Indian armed forces a robust tool to counter threats and perform strategic strikes on key targets from far away.
Strategic Significance and Future Prospects
- This successful test marks a key milestone in indigenous cruise missile development and is a testament to DRDO’s capabilities in designing advanced missile systems.
- The LRLACM provides India with an expanded strategic strike capability, enabling Indian forces to conduct high-precision strikes on enemy installations and strategic points without risking proximity to enemy defenses.
- According to DRDO and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, this achievement is expected to pave the way for future cruise missile programs, reinforcing India’s defense preparedness and enhancing its deterrence capabilities.
France’s Interest in Pinaka and International Collaborations
- The success of India’s indigenous missile technology, including systems like Pinaka, has attracted the attention of countries like France, which is currently evaluating Pinaka for its requirements.
- This is indicative of India’s growing reputation in defense technology, leading to potential defense exports and international collaborations that align with India’s goal of becoming a global defense manufacturing hub.
Indian Air Force (IAF) Requirements and Further Developments
- The IAF is also actively seeking to bolster its surveillance and early-warning capabilities through the acquisition of 12 early warning aircraft under two different programs.
- This, in combination with advanced missile systems like LRLACM, will provide comprehensive threat detection and response capabilities.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding India’s Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM):
1. The LRLACM has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) with a range capability of over 1,000 km. 2. The missile is designed for launch only from ground-based mobile articulated launchers. 3. The LRLACM has advanced avionics and software, enabling it to perform maneuvers and follow waypoint navigation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2, and 3 |
Q. With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2014)
Select the correct answer using the code given below. a. 1 only
|
| Answer – 1 – B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct. The LRLACM, developed by DRDO, has a range of over 1,000 km. · Statement 2 is incorrect. The LRLACM is designed to be launched from both ground-based mobile launchers and naval ships using a universal vertical launch module. · Statement 3 is correct. The missile is equipped with advanced avionics and software for waypoint navigation and maneuverability.
|
MHA approves first all women battalion for CISF
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 1 Internal Security
Context: First all-women battalion of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Why in News
- The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA approved the first all-women battalion of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Overview
- The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is a specialized paramilitary force in India tasked with providing security to industrial units, government infrastructure, airports, and other critical facilities.
- The new battalion will be the CISF’s first all-women battalion, symbolizing a commitment to increasing women’s representation and enhancing gender diversity in the force.
- This battalion will consist of approximately 1,000 women personnel, which is the typical size of a battalion within the CISF. Currently, women comprise 7% of the total 1.77 lakh (177,000) personnel in the CISF, and this initiative aims to raise this percentage.
Background and Initiative
- The proposal to create an all-women battalion was put forth following a directive from Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the 53rd CISF Day function.
- This decision aligns with the government’s broader goal to empower women and increase their participation in the armed forces and paramilitary services. Prime Minister Modi has also reiterated this commitment, emphasizing the importance of women’s representation in the armed forces.
Roles and Responsibilities of the All-Women Battalion
- The new battalion will be trained to perform a range of complex and diverse security roles, including:
- VIP Security: The battalion will be capable of protecting high-profile individuals, which is a highly specialized role requiring rigorous training and preparedness for dynamic security situations.
- Airport Security: Airports are critical infrastructure, and the battalion will be trained to handle complex security challenges in high-traffic and high-stakes environments.
- Delhi Metro and Railways: CISF is responsible for safeguarding the Delhi Metro, and the all-women battalion will play a key role in ensuring the safety and security of passengers and facilities in metro and railway systems.
- Commandos: The battalion’s training will be specially designed to create elite commandos who are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in emergency situations, underscoring a high standard of preparedness.
Recruitment, Training, and Headquarters Preparation
- The CISF has begun the preparatory steps needed to establish this all-women battalion:
- Recruitment: The process will focus on identifying and enlisting qualified women candidates to fill the positions in this battalion.
- Training: A specialized training program is being designed to prepare these women personnel for the multifaceted roles they will undertake. This will likely include:
- Physical and tactical training for high-risk environments.
- Special skills for intelligence gathering, situational assessment, and emergency response.
- Customer service and communication skills essential for roles in public environments like airports and metro systems.
- Headquarters Location: CISF is also working on selecting a suitable location for the headquarters of the new battalion, ensuring a centralized base for its operations and administrative functions.
Significance of the All-Women Battalion Initiative
- Empowerment and Equality: This initiative is a progressive step toward gender equality, enhancing the role of women in security forces and breaking gender stereotypes within the armed forces and paramilitary organizations.
- Enhanced Security Capabilities: Women are increasingly being recognized for their capabilities in diverse security roles, and this battalion will bring a new dimension to the CISF’s operations in sensitive security zones like airports and public transportation.
- Model for Future Expansion: As the first of its kind, the all-women battalion could serve as a model for future initiatives, potentially inspiring other paramilitary and defense organizations in India to enhance female representation and create similar battalions.
Conclusion
- The approval of the all-women CISF battalion by the MHA is a milestone in promoting women’s participation in India’s security forces.
- This battalion, once operational, will not only strengthen CISF’s operational capabilities but also reflect a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment within India’s paramilitary framework.
- With specialized training and deployment in critical roles, the all-women CISF battalion is set to be a powerful addition to India’s security forces, capable of handling high-stakes environments and diverse responsibilities.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 Consider the following statements regarding the first all-women battalion of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF):
1. The battalion will undergo specialized training to perform roles in VIP security, airport security, and metro security. 2. This initiative aims to increase the current percentage of women personnel in the CISF, which stands at 15%. 3. The creation of the all-women battalion follows a directive from the Union Home Minister. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (A) 1 only |
Q. What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news? (2018)
(a) An Israeli radar system (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme (c) An American anti-missile system (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea.
Ans: (c) |
| Answer 2– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct. The all-women battalion will be trained for VIP security, airport security, and metro security roles. · Statement 2 is incorrect. Currently, women make up only 7% of the CISF’s total strength, not 15%. · Statement 3 is correct. The proposal to create the battalion was made in response to a directive from the Union Home Minister during the 53rd CISF Day function. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Booker Prize 2024: British writer Samantha Harvey wins for space-station novel ‘Orbital’
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 1- Art and Culture, Literary Awards and Honors
Context: Booker Prize for fiction
Why in News
- The British writer Samantha Harvey won the Booker Prize for fiction with Orbital, a short, wonder-filled novel set aboard the International Space Station.
Overview of the Booker Prize and Recent Winner
- The Booker Prize for Fiction, established in 1969, is one of the most prestigious awards for English-language novels. It is open to writers of any nationality, provided their work is published in the U.K. or Ireland.
- The prize is known for its transformative impact on authors’ careers, with past winners including literary giants like Salman Rushdie, Hilary Mantel, and Margaret Atwood.
- On November 12, 2024, British author Samantha Harvey won the Booker Prize for her novel Orbital, which stands out as one of the shortest works to claim the title.
- Harvey is the first British writer to win since 2020 and the first female recipient since 2019.
About the Winning Novel: Orbital
- Orbitalis a brief, 136-page novel set aboard the International Space Station, which Harvey describes as a “space pastoral.”
- The story follows six astronauts who orbit Earth over the course of a single day, experiencing 16 sunrises and sunsets.
- In this confined space, they navigate both the challenges of close company and the transcendent beauty of seeing the planet from afar. The narrative explores themes of isolation, unity, and environmental fragility, resonating deeply with contemporary concerns.
Development and Themes
- Harvey began writing Orbitalduring the COVID-19 pandemic, a time marked by isolation and uncertainty, which shaped her portrayal of the astronauts’ experiences.
- The novel invites readers to reflect on human resilience, connection, and the Earth’s vulnerability from an otherworldly vantage point.
Judges’ Remarks and Selection Process
- Edmund de Waal, the chair of the judging panel, lauded Orbitalas a “miraculous novel,” particularly praising its “crystalline” prose and depth.
- Despite its brevity, he noted that the book “repays slow reading,” suggesting that Harvey’s concise storytelling creates an impactful reading experience.
- De Waal emphasized that the judging panel made their choice solely based on the quality of the novel, focusing on its literary merit rather than the author’s gender or nationality.
Importance of the 2024 Booker Prize
- The 2024 Booker Prize shortlist featured the highest number of female nominees in the award’s 55-year history.
- However, De Waal clarified that factors such as gender and nationality did not influence the selection process, underscoring the focus on literary excellence.
- In a year marked by global crises and environmental concerns, Orbitalwas deemed especially “hopeful, timely, and timeless,” as described by Gaby Wood, the Booker Prize Foundation’s chief executive.
Significance of the Award
- This recognition marks a significant achievement for Harvey, who has previously authored four novels and a memoir on insomnia.
- The Booker Prize is expected to enhance her literary career, as it has for many past winners.
- With its themes of environmental and human fragility, Orbitaloffers readers both solace and reflection on today’s world, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity.
Other Noteworthy Finalists
Harvey was selected from a shortlist of six finalists, chosen from 156 submissions. Among these were notable works by other acclaimed authors:
- Percival Everett’s James – An American novel reimagining Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of the enslaved character Jim.
- Rachel Kushner’s Creation Lake – A spy novel by the American writer.
- Anne Michaels’ Held – A poetic work by the Canadian author.
- Charlotte Wood’s Stone Yard Devotional – A multigenerational saga from Australia.
- Yael van der Wouden’s The Safekeep – The first Dutch-authored novel to be shortlisted.
Conclusion
- Samantha Harvey’s Orbitalstands as a profound addition to the canon of Booker Prize-winning novels, blending reflections on isolation, connection, and environmental awareness within a unique space-based narrative.
- This win highlights the Booker Prize’s commitment to celebrating impactful, innovative storytelling that resonates with readers across the globe.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements regarding Samantha Harvey’s novel Orbital, which won the 2024 Booker Prize:
1. Orbital is set aboard the International Space Station. 2. The novel explores themes of human connection and the fragility of Earth. 3. Samantha Harvey is the first British author to win the Booker Prize. Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Prize winner from Kenya is known for her contribution to which one d the following? (2007)
(a) Journalism (b) International economics (c) Sustainable development (d) Child development Ans. (c)
|
| Answer 3– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct. Samantha Harvey’s Orbital is set on the International Space Station and follows the lives of six astronauts as they orbit Earth. · Statement 2 is correct. Orbital explores themes like human connection and the vulnerability of our planet, as the astronauts are deeply affected by the view of Earth from space. · Statement 3 is incorrect. Samantha Harvey is a British author, but she is not the first British writer to win the Booker Prize. The Booker Prize has been awarded to many British authors in the past, including renowned writers like Ian McEwan, Salman Rushdie, and Hilary Mantel. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Researchers document huge drop in African elephants in a half century
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: Overview of the African Elephant Population Crisis
Why in News
- Researchers unveiled the most comprehensive assessment of the status of the two African elephant species – the savanna elephant and forest elephant
Overview of the African Elephant Population Crisis
- African elephants, the largest land animals on Earth, are facing a significant decline in population.
- A new study has highlighted alarming trends in elephant numbers across the African continent, with the two species of African elephants—the savanna elephantand the forest elephant—suffering severe declines over the past five decades.
The Study and Its Findings
- The study conducted a comprehensive assessment of elephant populations, using data from 475 sites across 37 countries. The data gathered spans from 1964 to 2016, and it provides an in-depth look at the population trends of both the savannaand forest elephants.
- Savanna Elephants:The population of savanna elephants at the surveyed sites has declined by an average of 70%. These elephants, which are typically found in grasslands and savannas, are highly affected by poaching and habitat destruction.
- Forest Elephants:Forest elephants, smaller in size than their savanna cousins, have seen an even more dramatic decline.
- Their populations have dropped by about 90% at the surveyed sites. These elephants are primarily found in the dense forests of Central and West Africa, and they face significant pressure from poaching, primarily driven by the illegal ivory trade, as well as habitat loss due to agriculture.
Major Drivers of Population Decline
- Two main factors have been identified as the primary drivers of the population decline of African elephants:
- Poaching:The illegal hunting of elephants for their tusks remains one of the leading causes of their population loss. Ivory is highly valued on the international black market, especially in countries like China and other parts of Asia. Despite international bans on ivory trade, demand remains high, fueling poaching activities.
- Habitat Loss:Agricultural expansion is another major threat to elephants, particularly in regions where forests and savannas are being cleared for farming, settlement, and infrastructure development. This loss of habitat leads to reduced access to food, water, and safe migration routes for elephants.
Regional Variations in Elephant Population Trends
- While many elephant populations across Africa have been severely impacted by poaching and habitat loss, there are some regions where elephant populations have shown positive trends due to conservation efforts:
- Southern Africa:In countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, elephant populations have seen growth. This success has been attributed to strong conservation measures, effective management by local governments, and active involvement of conservation organizations.
- Northern and Eastern Africa:Conversely, the northern Sahel region (including countries like Mali, Chad, and Nigeria) has been hit particularly hard. Here, elephant populations have been extirpated (locally extinct) due to high poaching pressure and limited protection efforts.
Forest vs. Savanna Elephants
- The two species of African elephants, though both facing population declines, have experienced differing impacts:
- Savanna Elephants:These elephants are more widely distributed across Africa and have been affected by poaching and habitat loss. They are considered the more abundant of the two species.
- Forest Elephants:Forest elephants have been disproportionately affected by poaching. Their populations are smaller compared to savanna elephants, and they have been hit harder by illegal ivory trade. They are found in the dense forests of Central and West Africa, where their populations are more vulnerable due to habitat fragmentation.
The Importance of Elephants in Ecosystems
- Elephants play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance in Africa. They are keystone species, meaning that their presence has a large impact on the ecosystem. Some of their important ecological roles include:
- Seed Dispersal:Elephants help in the dispersal of seeds through their droppings, which contributes to plant growth and the regeneration of forests and grasslands.
- Ecosystem Balance:Elephants help shape their environment by feeding on vegetation, which prevents overgrowth and maintains the balance between forests and grasslands. They create clearings in forests, which allows for the growth of new plant species, and their movement through ecosystems creates pathways that other animals use.
- Impact on Other Species:Many species in Africa rely on elephants for survival. For example, some animals depend on the fruit, seeds, or vegetation that elephants leave behind, while others use the spaces elephants create in the landscape for shelter.
Elephant Conservation: Successes and Challenges
- The study highlights the successesof conservation efforts in certain parts of Africa, such as in southern Africa, where elephant populations are thriving. However, it also emphasizes the challenges that remain:
- Many elephant populations are in declineor have already disappeared from certain regions due to poaching and habitat destruction.
- There is a need for continued and expanded conservation effortsto ensure the survival of elephants, particularly in regions facing high poaching pressures.
Conclusion
- While the population decline of African elephants is a significant ecological concern, the study also underscores the potential for successful conservation.
- The key to future success will be effective managementof elephant populations, continued protection from poaching, and efforts to preserve their habitats.
- The role of elephants in African ecosystems is irreplaceable, and their conservation is crucial for the ecological health of the continent.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the population decline of African elephants:
1. The decline in elephant populations in Africa is mainly driven by poaching and habitat loss. 2. Forest elephants have been less impacted by poaching compared to savanna elephants. 3. Southern Africa has seen a rise in elephant populations due to effective conservation efforts. Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements: (2020)
1. The leader of an elephant group is a female. 2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months. 3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only. 4. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (a) |
| Answer 4- B
Explanation · Statement 1: This is correct. The decline in African elephant populations is primarily due to poaching (for ivory) and habitat loss (due to agricultural expansion). · Statement 2: This is incorrect. Forest elephants have been disproportionately affected by poaching compared to savanna elephants. Forest elephants are more vulnerable due to their smaller populations and habitat loss. · Statement 3: This is correct. In Southern Africa, particularly in countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, elephant populations have increased due to strong conservation efforts. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Development lenders set $120 billion climate finance goal for poorer countries
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Environment and Ecology
Context: Climate finance
Why in News
- The world’s top multilateral banks pledged to ramp up climate finance to low and middle income countries to $120 billion a year by 2030 as part of efforts at global talks in Azerbaijan to agree an ambitious annual target.
Overview of the Pledge by Multilateral Banks
- At a global climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijanon November 12, 2024, the world’s top multilateral development banks (MDBs) pledged to significantly increase their climate finance contributions to low- and middle-income countries, committing to $120 billion annually by 2030.
- This commitment marks a major step forward in global efforts to combat climate change, especially for developing countries that are most vulnerable to its impacts.
Key Aspects of the Pledge
- Financial Commitment of $120 Billion by 2030
- The MDBs, which include major institutions like the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and European Investment Bank, have agreed to increase their climate finance to $120 billion per year by 2030.
- This figure represents a 60% increase from the amount these banks provided in 2023, demonstrating a heightened global response to the climate crisis.
- Climate Adaptation Focus
- A significant portion of this funding will be directed toward helping developing countries adapt to the impacts of extreme weather events driven by climate change.
- Specifically, $42 billion of the pledged funds will go towards adaptation, a 70% increase over the previous year. This funding will be crucial for nations that are already facing the brunt of climate impacts, including rising sea levels, droughts, and floods.
- Private Sector Engagement
- The MDBs are also working to bring in more private sector funding. The goal is to mobilize an additional $65 billion from the private sector to support climate-related initiatives in developing countries.
- MDBs will leverage their financing ability to encourage private sector investments, as private investors are generally more inclined to fund large-scale projects in wealthier nations that have better access to capital at lower costs.
- Global Climate Goals and the 1.5°C Target
- The pledged financial increase aligns with global efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2050.
- This target is part of international climate agreements like the Paris Agreement, which calls for drastic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change.
Role of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs)
- Financial Institutions at the Core of Climate Finance
- MDBs play a crucial role in the global climate finance architecture. They are responsible for providing significant financial support to countries that face challenges in accessing climate finance from other sources.
- Unlike wealthier nations that can access cheaper debt for climate projects, low- and middle-income countries often face higher borrowing costs and lack sufficient resources to invest in large-scale climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
- Mobilizing Additional Resources
- To support these nations, MDBs not only provide direct funding but also facilitate policy dialogues, finance public goods, and mobilize additional resources from the private sector and other sources.
- The private sector plays a crucial role in scaling up investments in clean energy, infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture in developing countries, but this requires MDBs to act as intermediaries that reduce risks and ensure returns for investors.
- The Need for Greater Shareholder Commitment
- The MDBs warned that their ability to meet these ambitious goals depends on the commitment of their shareholders, including both developed and developing nations.
- More funding from these shareholder countries is necessary to increase the MDBs’ internal resources, which will allow them to offer more grant and concessional funding (low-interest loans or grants).
- MDBs emphasized that additional capital is needed to unlock even more financing, both public and private, for climate-related projects.
- Impact of the U.S. Role
- The U.S., under the leadership of President Biden, has been supportive of the efforts to scale up climate finance. Despite previous setbacks during the Trump administration, which pulled back from global climate commitments, the U.S. has now reaffirmed its support for international climate finance efforts.
- A U.S. official noted the critical role that MDBs play in achieving global climate goals, and expressed support for the increased ambition shown by the banks.
Challenges and Future Outlook
- Challenges Ahead: While the pledge represents a positive development, achieving these goals will require coordination between MDBs, government commitment from both developed and developing countries, and a concerted effort to mobilize the private sector.
- Expanding Efforts: The MDBs’ role is essential, but their success will depend on whether countries can increase their climate finance contributions and the MDBs can effectively manage and distribute resources to maximize impact.
Conclusion
- The global community, including MDBs, governments, and the private sector, will need to work together to meet these ambitious goals and ensure that developing countries are well-equipped to combat and adapt to the increasingly severe impacts of climate change.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the pledge made by multilateral development banks (MDBs) at the global climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan in November 2024:
Which of the statements given above are correct? A) Only One
|
Q. “Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral Now” is an initiative launched by (2018)
(a) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (b) The UNEP Secretariat (c) The UNFCCC Secretariat (d) The World Meteorological Organisation Ans: (c)
|
| Answer 5-C
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: The MDBs have committed to increasing their climate finance to $120 billion annually by 2030. · Statement 2 is correct: Of the pledged amount, $42 billion will specifically be allocated to climate adaptation. · Statement 3 is incorrect: MDBs are actively working to mobilize private sector funding, with a goal of bringing in an additional $65 billion. · Statement 4 is correct: The pledge is in line with the global goal of capping global warming at 1.5°C by 2050. · Therefore, option C is the correct answer. |
India asks states away from coal to consider nuclear power
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Economy
Context: India’s Push for Nuclear Power
Why in news
- India’s Union power minister asked the states that are away from coal resources to consider setting up nuclear-based power plant
Overview
- India is facing an increasing demand for energy, which poses challenges for its existing power generation infrastructure.
- To meet this demand, especially while moving towards greener energy solutions, India is looking to diversify its energy sources.
- In this context, the Union power minister, Manohar Lal, made a significant call to states to consider nuclear power plants as a viable solution for regions that are far from coal resources and for areas where coal-based plants are nearing the end of their operational life.
Proposal for Nuclear Power Plants:
- The Indian government is looking to increase its nuclear power capacity, which is a part of its broader strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels like coal. Nuclear power is seen as a key component of India’s long-term energy mix, offering a low-carbon alternative to coal-based power plants.
- Current Nuclear Power Capacity: India currently has approximately 8 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power capacity, which is a small fraction of its total energy needs.
- Future Goal: The government aims to increase nuclear power capacity to 20 GW by 2032, which would require a significant expansion of nuclear power plants and infrastructure.
Union Budget Proposal for Small Nuclear Reactors:
- The Union budget for the year proposed the development of small nuclear reactorsin partnership with private players. These small reactors are viewed as a more flexible and less resource-intensive solution for generating nuclear energy.
- Benefits of Small Nuclear Reactors: They are seen as safer, less expensive, and more adaptable to different locations compared to large reactors.
- Private Sector Role: Involving private players could help accelerate the development and deployment of these reactors, bypassing some of the traditional barriers in public sector-driven nuclear projects.
Focus on Areas with Expired Coal Power Plants:
The minister suggested that states should explore the possibility of setting up nuclear power plants at sites where coal-based thermal power plants have completed their life cycle.
- Why Nuclear Power?: The availability of land and infrastructure at coal power sites, combined with the need to transition to cleaner energy, makes these areas suitable candidates for nuclear power plants.
- Coal Plant Decommissioning: As coal plants age and their economic viability decreases due to environmental concerns, transitioning these sites to nuclear power generation offers a way to preserve jobs and infrastructure while reducing emissions.
Challenges with Nuclear Power Expansion:
Despite the benefits of nuclear energy, there are significant hurdles in expanding nuclear power generation in India.
- Nuclear Compensation Laws: India has stringent laws regarding compensation for nuclear accidents, which has made it challenging to attract foreign investors and technology providers such as General Electric and Westinghouse.
- Investment and Expertise: The complexity and high capital cost of building nuclear power plants require significant investment and expertise. These issues need to be addressed for the expansion plan to succeed.
Stock Market Listing of Power Utilities:
In addition to the nuclear push, the minister also urged states to list their power utilities on the stock exchange to attract private investment. This move is aimed at improving financial transparency, increasing access to capital, and boosting investor confidence in the power sector.
- Stock Exchange Listings: By listing on the stock market, power utilities can raise funds for expansion and modernization, including the improvement of transmission networks and the addition of renewable energy capacity.
- Investment in Renewable Energy: Improving the transmission system is essential for integrating more renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which are intermittent in nature and require robust grid infrastructure to be effectively utilized.
Strategic Goals:
- Meeting Growing Power Demand: With India’s rapidly growing economy and population, the demand for electricity is projected to rise sharply. Nuclear power is seen as an essential part of the energy mix to meet this demand without exacerbating carbon emissions.
- Energy Transition to Clean Sources: The push for nuclear energy is aligned with India’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and addressing climate change. This is consistent with global trends towards cleaner energy sources, including nuclear power.
- Public-Private Collaboration: By encouraging private sector involvement in the development of small nuclear reactors and the listing of power utilities, India aims to bring in both the financial resources and technological expertise necessary to scale its energy infrastructure.
Conclusion:
- India’s push for nuclear power, especially small nuclear reactors, is a significant step towards addressing its growing power needs while reducing carbon emissions.
- The proposal to repurpose coal plant sites for nuclear power plants, combined with measures to attract private investment, marks a multi-pronged approach to securing a sustainable and diversified energy future.
- However, overcoming the challenges related to nuclear safety laws and investment will be crucial for the success of these initiatives.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q6. Consider the following statements regarding India’s plans for nuclear power and the energy sector:
Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1, 2, and 3 only
|
Q. In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under “IAEA safeguards” while others are not? (2020)
(a) Some use uranium and others use thorium (b) Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies (c) Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises (d) Some are State-owned and others are privately owned Ans: (b)
|
| Answer 6- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: India has about 8 GW of nuclear power generation capacity. India has been gradually expanding its nuclear energy sector, but it is still far behind countries with much larger nuclear capacities like the USA, Russia, and China. · Statement 2 is correct: India has set an ambitious target to increase its nuclear power capacity to 20 GW by 2032. This move aligns with India’s broader goal to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels like coal, which contribute to carbon emissions. · Statement 3 is correct: The Indian power minister, Manohar Lal, recommended that states explore setting up nuclear power plants at sites where coal-based thermal plants have reached the end of their operational life. This is a strategic suggestion, as it would utilize existing infrastructure and locations that are already well-connected to the national grid. · Statement 4 is Incorrect: In fact, India’s stringent nuclear compensation laws have hindered discussions with foreign power plant builders. These laws, particularly the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (2010), place the onus of compensation on nuclear plant operators in the event of accidents, which has created hesitance among foreign players like General Electric and Westinghouse from engaging in nuclear power plant projects in India. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |