Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (16-10-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Economy: NITI Aayog launches study to evaluate shift to renewable energy sources |
| BEML Ltd to manufacture India’s first bullet train |
| International Relations Nile nations agree on water-sharing without Egypt’s nod |
| Polity and Governance: Centre sets up AI hubs for research on health, agriculture, sustainable cities |
| Social Justice: Two billion women lack social protection; UN Women report finds |
NITI Aayog launches study to evaluate shift to renewable energy sources
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Economy
Context: India’s ‘Just Transition’ Framework
Why in News
- NITI Aayog is developing a framework for India’s just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, ensuring economic, environmental, and social impacts are addressed, with support for affected workers.
Overview
- NITI Aayog, India’s public policy think tank, is in the process of developing a comprehensive framework to guide the country’s transition from fossil fuel-based energy systems to renewable energy.
- This transition is known as a ‘just transition’, which means a shift that considers the economic, environmental, and social impacts, ensuring that those affected, especially workers in the fossil fuel industry, are supported through this change.
- This initiative is significant as India aims to balance its growing energy demands with environmental sustainability, economic growth, and employment security.
What is ‘Just Transition’?
- A ‘just transition’ refers to the movement away from jobs and industries linked to fossil fuels, such as coal mining, towards employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
- The concept emphasizes fairness in ensuring that workers, industries, and communities dependent on fossil fuels are not left behind during the energy transition.
- This includes job retraining, financial support, and ensuring the development of new industries to absorb the displaced workforce.
NITI Aayog’s Role and Progress
- NITI Aayog has constituted a body to map out India’s ‘just transition’ framework, with inputs from nine working groups.
- These working groups are focusing on different aspects of the transition, including employment, energy growth, and environmental sustainability.
- The aim is to create a modelling framework that will provide insights into how India can manage this energy shift.
India’s Current Dependence on Coal
- Coal is currently the backbone of India’s energy supply, fueling around 75% of the electricity consumed.
- India has 643 operational thermal power plant units, and more than 50% of the country’s installed power capacity is concentrated in just 21 districts across 11 states.
- A significant portion of India’s coal-based thermal power plants is relatively new, with over three-fourths of the existing capacity being less than 20 years old.
- Given that the average lifespan of a thermal power plant is 25 years, one-third of India’s coal plants will reach retirement age by 2030, and by 2040, two-thirds of them will be ready for decommissioning.
- This presents a massive opportunity to shift towards renewable energy sources while reducing dependence on coal.
Coal Renewable Energy Targets
- India has set ambitious renewable energy goals.
- By 2030, it plans to add 500 GW of electric power from non-fossil fuel sources, which is more than its current installed power capacity.
- This increase will help compensate for India’s expected rise in per capita power consumption while also reducing its carbon footprint.
The Cost of ‘Just Transition’
The Institute for Energy, Environment and Resources (iFOREST), a research and advocacy organization, estimates that the cost of India’s ‘just transition’ over the next 30 years could exceed a trillion dollars. These costs arise from several factors:
- Phasing down coal mines and power plants: India will need to gradually phase out existing coal mines and power plants, with a target of shutting them down completely by 2050.
- Land rehabilitation and repurposing: The transition will involve rehabilitating and repurposing 343,504 hectares of coal-mining land. This land can be used for renewable energy projects or other economic purposes.
- Converting thermal power units: Existing coal-based thermal power plants will need to be converted to run on renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
- Supporting workers: Approximately 5.9 million workers depend on the coal industry for their livelihoods. The ‘just transition’ framework will need to provide job retraining, financial support, and employment opportunities in new sectors for these workers.
Challenges and Considerations
- Economic impact: As India phases out coal, many districts that are dependent on coal mining and coal-based power generation will face economic disruptions. A successful transition will require investment in new industries and sectors to ensure these communities continue to thrive.
- Employment: Supporting workers during the transition is critical. The framework must focus on retraining workers for jobs in the renewable energy sector and creating employment opportunities in related industries.
- Environmental rehabilitation: Repurposing coal-mining lands and decommissioning coal plants will be a significant environmental challenge. Proper planning will be required to ensure these lands are rehabilitated and put to productive use.
- Financial burden: The cost of transitioning from coal to renewable energy will be immense, with a projected cost of over a trillion dollars. India will need international support, private sector investment, and government initiatives to meet these costs while maintaining economic stability.
Conclusion
- India’s ‘just transition’ framework is a crucial step in its journey toward clean energy and environmental sustainability.
- However, this shift must be managed carefully to ensure that the economic, social, and employment impacts are mitigated, particularly for those currently dependent on the coal industry.
- With its ambitious renewable energy targets and strategic planning, India has the potential to lead the way in transitioning to a more sustainable energy future while ensuring fairness and equity in the process.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Which of the following statements regarding India’s ‘Just Transition’ framework is/are correct?
1. ‘Just Transition’ refers to the movement away from fossil fuel-linked jobs to those in the renewable energy sector, with an emphasis on fairness for workers affected by the shift. 2. NITI Aayog is involved in creating a ‘Just Transition’ modelling framework to assess the impact of transitioning from coal to renewable energy in India. 3. The success of India’s ‘Just Transition’ depends significantly on balancing energy security, employment generation, and environmental sustainability. 4. The financial burden of ‘Just Transition’ in India, exceeding a trillion dollars, is a major challenge that will require coordinated efforts from both public and private sectors. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA), which of the following statements is/are correct? (2015)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (c)
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| Answer – 1-C
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: ‘Just Transition’ involves moving from fossil fuel jobs to renewable energy with fairness for affected workers. · Statement 2 is correct: NITI Aayog is creating a framework to assess this transition. · Statement 3 is correct: A successful transition requires a careful balance of energy needs, job creation, and sustainability. · Statement 4 is correct: The financial burden is a critical challenge, and both public and private sectors will need to contribute.
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BEML Ltd to manufacture India’s first bullet train
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS 3- Economy
Context: India’s first bullet train
Why in News
- State-run BEML Ltd has been awarded the contract for the design, manufacturing, and commissioning of two high-speed trainsets, each comprising eight cars by Integral Coach Factory (ICF).
BEML Ltd’s Role in India’s High-Speed Rail Journey
- State-run BEML Ltd has been awarded a significant contract by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) for the design, manufacturing, and commissioning of two high-speed trainsets, each comprising eight cars.
- This contract is a major step in India’s effort to develop its high-speed rail infrastructure domestically, reflecting a move towards self-reliance in high-speed rail technology.
Contract Details
The total contract value is Rs 866.87 crore, with each car costing Rs 27.86 crore. This cost includes the following components:
- Design costs: The expenses involved in the engineering and blueprint creation for the trainsets.
- One-time development costs: Initial investment in creating the infrastructure necessary for high-speed rail manufacturing.
- Non-recurring charges: Additional one-time expenses, such as specialized equipment and tools that won’t need to be repeated for future projects.
- Jigs, fixtures, and testing facilities: Specialized tools and systems used for assembling, testing, and commissioning the trainsets, which will be used for future high-speed rail projects.
The project marks a milestone in India’s high-speed rail development, as it will involve the first indigenously designed and manufactured trainsets, with a test speed of 280 km/h and an operating speed of 249 km/h.
Key Players
- BEML Ltd: Known for its expertise in three verticals—Defence & Aerospace, Mining & Construction, and Rail & Metro—BEML is taking a leading role in this project. The company has advanced manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru, Kolar Gold Fields, Mysore, and Palakkad, along with robust R&D capabilities.
- Integral Coach Factory (ICF): Based in Chennai, ICF is a major player in India’s rail manufacturing sector. It issued the tender for the trainsets, which will now be fulfilled by BEML.
Transition from Japanese Technology to Domestic Manufacturing
- The trains are part of India’s ambitious high-speed rail corridor project, specifically the 508 km Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor.
- Initially, the plan was to use Japanese E5 series Shinkansen high-speed trains.
- However, due to the high prices quoted by Japanese companies, India decided to manufacture these trains domestically, lowering costs and enhancing self-reliance in critical infrastructure sectors.
Implications for India’s High-Speed Rail Sector
- Cost Efficiency: By opting for domestic manufacturing, India aims to reduce costs and potentially accelerate the development of future high-speed rail corridors.
- Technological Milestone: The project will see India developing high-speed train technology domestically, paving the way for further advancements in railway infrastructure.
- Boost to Local Industry: The project involves substantial investment in local manufacturing capabilities and infrastructure, supporting the broader ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Make in India Initiative and High-Speed Rail
- The BEML project is a significant part of the Make in India initiative, a government-led program aimed at transforming India into a global manufacturing hub.
- By opting to design and manufacture high-speed trainsets domestically instead of importing them, India is not only reducing its dependency on foreign technology but also fostering the growth of its domestic industrial base.
- This move aligns with the broader goals of the Make in India campaign, which emphasizes the development of local industries, job creation, and technological advancement.
- Projects like this enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities, reduce costs, and provide a competitive edge in the global market.
- Furthermore, the indigenous production of high-speed trains will promote self-reliance in critical sectors like transportation infrastructure, while boosting domestic expertise and fostering innovation across industries such as engineering, metallurgy, and research & development.
- The initiative thus strengthens India’s position as a global player in high-speed rail technology and infrastructure.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. With reference to the ‘Make in India’ initiative and India’s high-speed rail projects, consider the following statements:
1. The BEML Ltd project to design and manufacture high-speed trainsets domestically is aligned with the objectives of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. 2. India’s decision to manufacture high-speed trainsets domestically instead of importing them from Japan is primarily aimed at enhancing self-reliance and reducing dependency on foreign technology. 3. The ‘Make in India’ initiative solely focuses on developing the transportation sector to boost domestic manufacturing. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. What is/are the recent policy initiative(s)of Government of India to promote the growth of manufacturing sector? (2012)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only Ans: (d)
|
| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The BEML project to design and manufacture high-speed trainsets domestically supports the goals of ‘Make in India’. · Statement 2 is correct: By manufacturing domestically, India aims to reduce dependency on foreign technology and foster self-reliance. · Statement 3 is incorrect: The ‘Make in India’ initiative focuses on a wide range of sectors, not just transportation. It aims to boost manufacturing across multiple industries, including electronics, defence, textiles, and more. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Nile nations agree on water-sharing without Egypt’s nod
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: Nile Basin Initiative (NBI)
Why in News
- Nile nations have reached a water-sharing agreement, excluding Egypt, which has historically relied heavily on the river for its water supply and has been a major player in Nile basin negotiations.
Nile River Basin Agreement: Overview and Context
- The Nile River, the world’s longest river, runs through 11 countries in northeastern Africa, making it a critical resource for the region.
- These nations have long sought an agreement to manage its waters equitably.
- Recently, a significant development occurred as a regional partnership of 10 countries reached an agreement on the equitable use of water resources from the Nile River basin.
- Despite this progress, Egypt and Sudan remain opposed to the agreement, citing concerns about their water security.
Key Aspects of the Agreement
- The agreement is part of a “cooperative framework” that focuses on the sustainable and equitable distribution of Nile waters among the countries in the basin.
- It was formally confirmed by the African Union (AU) after South Sudan joined the treaty, a major step toward bringing the accord into force. Other countries like Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania have also ratified the agreement.
- However, Egypt and Sudan have declined to sign, while Congo has abstained, and Kenya has not yet submitted its ratification documents.
- This framework is considered a crucial step towards resolving long-standing disputes over Nile water use.
- The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), which facilitated the accord, hailed the agreement as a testament to the collective resolve of the Nile riparian countries to manage the river’s resources fairly.
Reasons for Egypt’s Opposition
- Egypt, a largely desert nation, heavily relies on the Nile for its water and irrigation needs.
- It has historically had a large share of the Nile waters under colonial-era treaties, which allocated the majority of the river’s water to Egypt and Sudan.
- Egypt fears that the new agreement could diminish its share of the river, which it sees as vital for its population of over 100 million people.
- Sudan shares similar concerns, as its agricultural sector is also heavily dependent on Nile water.
- One of the key sources of tension in the region is Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile, a major tributary of the Nile River.
- The dam, a $4 billion project, is expected to generate significant hydropower for Ethiopia and neighboring countries, but Egypt worries that it will reduce the flow of water downstream, severely affecting its water supply and agriculture.
- Egypt has repeatedly asked Ethiopia to consider its water needs while filling the dam’s reservoir.
The Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA)
- The Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) aims to replace older, colonial-era agreements that favored Egypt and Sudan. The new accord seeks to distribute water resources based on equitable and reasonable use, promoting cooperation, regional development, and sustainability.
- Supporters of the Agreement: Countries like Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania argue that the CFA reflects the need for fair sharing of Nile waters, considering the increasing population and development needs of all riparian states. They view the agreement as a step towards regional cooperation and a sustainable future.
- Egypt and Sudan’s Position: Egypt, in particular, remains opposed to the CFA, as it considers any alteration to its historically significant water share a threat to its national security. Both Egypt and Sudan refused to sign the accord due to concerns that they will lose out in the redistribution of water rights.
Tensions Over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)
- The construction of the GERD has been a flashpoint for tensions in the region. Ethiopia sees the dam as critical for its energy needs and economic development, but Egypt fears that the project could drastically reduce the amount of water flowing downstream into Egypt.
- Ethiopia has begun filling the dam’s reservoir, which has led to periodic diplomatic clashes with Egypt. Egypt insists that the filling of the dam should be carefully managed to prevent harm to its agriculture and water resources, but Ethiopia has moved ahead, citing its right to use the Blue Nile for its development.
- The GERD dispute has drawn in international mediation efforts, with the African Union and other global players attempting to broker an agreement between the three countries (Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan). However, no long-term solution has been reached.
Regional and Global Implications
- The CFA and the GERD project both reflect broader issues of water security, resource management, and regional cooperation in Africa. Water is a critical and often contentious resource, especially in regions where climate change and population growth are putting increased pressure on limited resources.
- Economic and Environmental Impact: The agreement is significant for regional development, as better water management can promote agricultural growth, energy production (through hydropower), and long-term sustainability for countries in the Nile basin.
- Geopolitical Tensions: The lack of agreement from Egypt and Sudan, two of the most water-dependent countries in the region, means that tensions are likely to continue. The Nile is a lifeline for these nations, and any perceived threat to their water share could lead to heightened diplomatic or even military tensions.
Conclusion
- The new agreement on Nile water distribution, despite opposition from Egypt and Sudan, is a milestone for the Nile basin countries, reflecting a shift towards more equitable use of the river’s resources.
- However, the unresolved concerns over water security and Ethiopia’s dam project mean that regional tensions will persist.
- Moving forward, diplomatic negotiations will be key to balancing the needs of all countries involved and ensuring sustainable development for the region.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. With reference to the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), consider the following statements:
1. The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) aims to promote equitable use and sustainable management of water resources among all riparian countries of the Nile River. 2. Egypt and Sudan are founding members of the NBI and have ratified the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA). 3. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has been a major source of tension between Nile Basin countries, especially between Ethiopia and Egypt. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) Only One B) Only two C) Only Three D) All |
Q. Consider the following countries: (2022)
1. Armenia 2. Azerbaijan 3. Croatia 4. Romania 5. Uzbekistan Which of the above are members of the Organization of Turkic States? a) 1, 2 and 4 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2 and 5 only d) 3, 4 and 5 only
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| Answer 3-B
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: The Nile Basin Initiative seeks to promote the equitable and sustainable management of the Nile River among its riparian countries. · Statement 2 is incorrect: While Egypt and Sudan are members of the NBI, they have not ratified the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) due to concerns about their historical shares of Nile water. · Statement 3 is correct: The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has been a source of tension between Ethiopia and Egypt, as Egypt fears it could reduce its water supply. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Centre sets up AI hubs for research on health, agriculture, sustainable cities
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- Polity and Governance
Context: Formation of AI hubs
Why in News
- The Centre announced setting up of three centres of excellence (CoE) in artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, agriculture and sustainable cities.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think, learn, and perform tasks that typically require human cognition.
- AI systems are designed to analyze data, recognize patterns, make decisions, and improve over time through learning.
- AI encompasses various technologies, such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, enabling applications like speech recognition, autonomous driving, and personalized recommendations.
- By mimicking human-like decision-making processes, AI has the potential to revolutionize industries such as healthcare, finance, agriculture, and transportation, enhancing efficiency and productivity
Centres of Excellence (CoE) in AI:
The CoEs aim to drive innovation and solutions across three key sectors:
- Healthcare: This will be led by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, with a focus on applying AI to improve health services, diagnostics, and healthcare delivery.
- Agriculture: The IIT Ropar in Punjab will lead efforts in transforming agriculture through AI, focusing on optimizing agricultural practices, improving crop yields, and addressing challenges in the farming sector.
- Sustainable Cities: IIT Kanpur will develop AI solutions for sustainable cities, including smart urban planning, environmental sustainability, and improving the quality of life in urban areas.
Collaborative Effort:
- The CoEs will work in collaboration with industries and start-ups, creating a dynamic ecosystem where AI innovation can flourish, benefiting from inputs across multiple sectors and stakeholders.
- This initiative is part of a larger strategy outlined in the Union Budget 2023-24, which proposed an allocation of ₹990 crore over five years (2023-2028) for establishing these AI CoEs.
Leadership and Oversight:
- The CoEs will be overseen by an apex committee, which includes significant industry representation.
- The committee is co-chaired by Sridhar Vembu, who is recognized for his contributions to the technology sector.
- The Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, emphasized that these CoEs would contribute to creating job opportunities and wealth while solidifying India’s role in global AI policy and innovation.
Multidisciplinary Research and Start-up Ecosystem:
- The CoEs are expected to promote multidisciplinary research, involving collaboration among diverse resources from educational institutions and the private sector.
- This will enable the development of AI-driven solutions to real-world problems.
- These initiatives will boost the start-up ecosystem by nurturing talent and encouraging the development of new companies in the AI sector, ultimately creating employment opportunities and advancing technological innovation.
Significance for Public Policy and Development:
- The Union Education Secretary, K. Sanjay Murthy, noted that the CoEs would support efforts to solve common societal problems through research and competitive challenge-based approaches.
- These CoEs are expected to benefit various sectors, including the health of villages, cities, and people, by creating sustainable AI solutions that will have a long-term positive impact on public policy and the economy.
Conclusion:
- The establishment of AI-based Centres of Excellence is a crucial step toward driving AI innovation in India.
- These centers will not only focus on specific sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and urban sustainability but will also foster collaboration with industries, promote research, and generate employment and wealth.
- With substantial financial backing and leadership from industry experts, these CoEs are expected to position India as a global leader in AI-driven solutions.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Which of the following statements is true regarding the establishment of AI Hubs in India?
Select the correct answer using the code below: a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 only c) 2 and 4 only d) 1, 3 and 4 only |
Q. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? (2020)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only Ans: (b) |
| Answer 4 – B
Explanation · Statement 1 is Correct. While some AI technologies may have military applications, AI Hubs in India are not primarily focused on this area. Their main objective is to foster innovation and application of AI across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and urban development. · Statement 2 is Correct. This is one of the primary objectives of AI Hubs. They are designed to facilitate collaboration among academia, industry, and startups to drive innovation, research, and practical applications of AI technology. · Statement 3 is Incorrect. AI Hubs receive significant government funding and support, as indicated by the establishment of these centers through government initiatives. They are intended to be collaborative efforts involving both public and private sectors. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. AI Hubs do not aim to replace traditional educational institutions. Instead, they are meant to complement existing education systems by providing additional resources, research opportunities, and practical applications of AI. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Two billion women lack social protection; UN Women report finds
Source: Down To Earth
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2-Social Justice
Context: Social Protection of Women
Why in news
- A new report from United Nations Women has unveiled a significant gender gap in social protection worldwide, leaving billions of women and girls vulnerable to poverty.
Mission Overview
- The United Nations Women report, released on October 15, 2024, highlights a significant gender gap in social protection, revealing that billions of women and girls globally are left vulnerable to poverty due to inadequate access to essential support systems.
Key Findings
- Lack of Access to Social Protection:
- Approximately two billion women and girls do not have access to any form of social protection, which includes critical supports like cash benefits, unemployment insurance, pensions, and healthcare. This gap leaves them susceptible to economic instability and poverty.
- Insufficient Gender Focus in Social Policies:
- Of nearly 1,000 social protection measures introduced across 171 countries, only 18% are focused on enhancing women’s economic security. This stark figure indicates a systemic oversight in addressing the specific needs of women in social protection frameworks.
- Maternity Benefits:
- More than 63% of women worldwide give birth without maternity benefits, with the situation being particularly dire in sub-Saharan Africa, where 94% lack such support. The absence of maternity leave and benefits severely impacts women’s economic stability and the well-being of their children.
- Impact of Economic Crises:
- The report identifies that women are disproportionately affected by economic shocks, such as the recent inflation that has driven up food and energy prices. Women aged 25-34 are 25% more likely than their male counterparts to live in households facing extreme poverty, especially in conflict and climate-affected regions.
- Vulnerabilities in Crisis Situations:
- In crisis scenarios, women’s specific risks and vulnerabilities often remain unaddressed. Factors like conflict and climate change exacerbate these vulnerabilities, particularly for women in fragile settings who are significantly more likely to experience extreme poverty.
Progress and Initiatives
Despite the challenges highlighted in the report, there are some positive developments:
- Inclusive Policies: Countries like Mongolia have expanded maternity leave benefits to include informal workers, and Mexico and Tunisia have incorporated domestic workers into social security systems.
- Tailored Health Services: Senegal has improved its National Health Insurance scheme to cater to rural women’s needs with support from UN Women.
Call to Action
The report emphasizes the need for:
- Gender-responsive social protection systems that effectively address the unique challenges faced by women and girls.
- Government Action: There is a call for governments to prioritize women and girls in social protection measures and crisis responses to facilitate sustainable pathways out of poverty and reduce gender inequality.
- Financial Commitment: It notes that many low-income nations lack the capacity to generate the necessary funds, estimated at $77.9 billion (about 15.9% of their GDP), required to implement a basic social protection floor, underlining the need for international support and collaboration.
Conclusion
- The UN Women report underscores the urgent need to rectify the gender disparities in social protection to ensure that women and girls are not left behind, especially in the wake of economic challenges and crises.
- By implementing gender-sensitive policies and increasing support, countries can enhance women’s economic security and foster equality and empowerment.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5 Which of the following statements is true regarding the findings of the UN Women report?
a) Approximately one billion women and girls lack access to social protection. b) Only 18% of social protection measures focus on women’s economic security. c) The majority of women globally receive maternity benefits. d) Women aged 25-34 are less likely than men of the same age to live in extreme poverty. Select the correct answer using the code below: A) a and c only B) b only C) a, b and d only D) c and d only |
Q. Which of the following gives ‘Global Gender Gap Index’ ranking to the countries of the world? (2017)
(a) World Economic Forum (b) UN Human Rights Council (c) UN Women (d) World Health Organization Ans: (a)
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| Answer 5 – B
Explanation · Statement 1 is Incorrect. The UN Women report indicates that two billion women and girls lack access to any form of social protection, which is significantly higher than one billion. · Statement 2 is correct. The report clearly states that only 18% of nearly 1,000 social protection measures introduced by governments across 171 countries focus on women’s economic security. This reflects a significant gap in addressing the needs of women in social protection systems. · Statement 3 is Incorrect. The report highlights that over 63% of women globally give birth without access to maternity benefits, indicating that a majority do not receive such benefits. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. The report states that women aged 25-34 are 25% more likely than men of the same age to live in households facing extreme poverty, thus contradicting this statement. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |