Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (22-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: India to host global conference of cooperatives for the first time |
| Nearly 40% of 3.4 million displaced in Myanmar are children: United Nations |
| What is Russia’s nuclear doctrine, newly updated by Vladimir Putin? |
| Polity and Governance: Govt launches Bhu-Neer portal, a centralized platform for managing groundwater withdrawal permits |
| Environment and Ecology: India drops two places but remains among top 10 climate performers: Report |
India to host global conference of cooperatives for the first time
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations:
Context: International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)
Why in News
The upcoming global conference of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) in New Delhi marks a historic milestone for the global cooperative movement.
Event Details
- Occasion:
- India will host the ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference, the first time in ICA’s 130-year history.
- The event will also mark the launch of the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Dates and Venue:
- Scheduled from November 25 to 30, 2024 in New Delhi, India.
- Organizers:
- The initiative to bring the event to India was led by IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited).
- Coordinated by the Union Ministry of Cooperation, headed by Amit Shah, and supported by the ICA.
Participation
- Delegates:
- Around 3,000 delegates are expected to participate, including 1,000 foreign delegates from over 100 countries.
- Representatives from diverse cooperative sectors worldwide will attend.
- Distinguished Guests:
- Bhutan Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay and Fiji Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica will attend as esteemed guests.
- Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will chair the inaugural session as the Chief Guest.
- Pakistan’s Participation:
- Participation from Pakistan remains uncertain as the Ministry of External Affairs is handling protocol requirements. Specific approvals are required for countries like Pakistan.
Significance of the Event
- Global Importance:
- The ICA is the leading organization representing the global cooperative movement, which includes more than a billion members worldwide.
- Hosting this event positions India as a central player in the cooperative movement.
- Showcasing Indian Cooperatives:
- India accounts for 25% of all cooperatives globally, with a network of over 8 lakh cooperatives.
- The event offers a platform to highlight the strength, diversity, and achievements of Indian cooperatives.
- Carbon-Neutral Approach:
- The event will be carbon-neutral, with 10,000 peepal trees planted across India.
- Environmentally conscious measures will be in place, including serving vegetarian food and excluding alcohol.
Themes and Subthemes
The conference will revolve around the overarching theme: ‘Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All.’
Key Subthemes:
- Enabling Policy and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems:
- Focus on creating policies that support cooperative enterprises and foster entrepreneurship.
- Emphasis on addressing challenges and opportunities within cooperative frameworks.
- Nurturing Purposeful Leadership to Create Prosperity for All:
- Highlight the role of strong, inclusive leadership in driving cooperative success.
- Discussions on leadership models that align with cooperative principles.
- Reaffirming the Cooperative Identity:
- Reiterating the core values and principles that define the cooperative movement.
- Ensuring that cooperatives maintain their distinct identity in a rapidly changing global economy.
- Shaping the Future: Towards Realizing Prosperity for All in the 21st Century:
- Exploring innovative ways for cooperatives to contribute to economic growth, sustainability, and social equity in the modern era.
- Deliberations on leveraging technology and partnerships for enhanced impact.
Conclusion
- The ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference in New Delhi will not only highlight India’s significant contributions to the cooperative movement but also provide a collaborative platform to address global challenges.
- The event’s focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and leadership ensures that the cooperative movement continues to thrive in the 21st century, building a future of shared prosperity for all.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference 2024:
1. This is the first time in ICA’s 130-year history that India is hosting the ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference. 2. The theme of the event is ‘Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All’, with subthemes focusing on leadership, policy, and sustainability. 3. The conference will exclusively serve vegetarian food and aims to be a carbon-neutral event. 4. India accounts for 50% of all cooperatives globally. Which of the above statements are correct? (A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to the United Nations General Assembly, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: d
|
| Answer – 1 – B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: It is the first time in ICA’s history that India is hosting this event. · Statement 2 is correct: The theme and subthemes align with the focus areas of the event. · Statement 3 is correct: The event is carbon-neutral, and only vegetarian food will be served. · Statement 4 is incorrect: India accounts for 25%, not 50%, of all cooperatives globally. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Nearly 40% of 3.4 million displaced in Myanmar are children: United Nations
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: Child Displacement
Why in News
- The humanitarian situation in Myanmar has reached a critical stage, driven by ongoing civil conflict and severe climate events.
Background: The Civil Conflict
- Coup and Its Aftermath:
- In 2021, Myanmar’s military deposed the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking nationwide protests and an armed uprising against the junta.
- The junta’s crackdown led to accusations of widespread human rights abuses, including airstrikes, artillery bombardments, and targeting civilian populations.
- Escalating Violence:
- The junta has faced resistance from various ethnic minority armed groups and civilian militias, contributing to widespread unrest and displacement.
- Violence has also spread to areas such as Kachin State and Shan State, regions with active ethnic insurgent groups like the Kachin Independence Army (KIA).
Impact of Climate Change
- Typhoon Yagi:
- In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi caused catastrophic flooding, killing over 400 people and displacing hundreds of thousands.
- Climate-related disasters have compounded the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, especially children.
- Displacement and Vulnerability:
- According to UNICEF, over 3.4 million people have been displaced across Myanmar, with 40% of them being children.
- Displaced populations face inadequate shelter, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services.
Impact on Children
- Casualties and Displacement:
- At least 650 children have been killed or wounded in violence in 2024 alone.
- Children account for a third of the more than 1,000 civilian casualties from landmines and unexploded ordnance.
- Loss of Safe Spaces:
- The widespread use of airstrikes, artillery, and landmines in civilian areas has severely restricted safe spaces for children.
- Essential institutions like schools, hospitals, and homes have been targeted, depriving children of education, healthcare, and security.
- Notable Incidents:
- On November 15, 2024, an airstrike hit a church compound in Kachin State, killing seven children and two civilians.
- A military airstrike on a teashop in Naungcho, Shan State, killed 11 people, further highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attacks.
UNICEF’s Concerns
- Critical Inflection Point:
- UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban emphasized that the combination of escalating conflict and climate shocks is putting children at “unprecedented risk.”
- The humanitarian crisis threatens to have long-term repercussions on children’s physical and mental well-being.
- Call for Action:
- Chaiban urged the international community to focus on protecting children from violence and ensuring access to essential services like healthcare and education.
- He condemned the use of deadly weapons in civilian areas, which exacerbates the already dire situation.
Broader Implications
- Ethnic Conflict:
- Ethnic minority groups like the KIA continue to resist the junta, complicating peace efforts and leading to prolonged violence in regions like Kachin and Shan States.
- Humanitarian Challenges:
- Displacement on such a massive scale has overwhelmed local resources and humanitarian aid systems.
- The impact on children highlights the need for urgent intervention to address basic needs, safety, and education.
- Environmental Vulnerabilities:
- Climate events like Typhoon Yagi underline Myanmar’s vulnerability to extreme weather, which worsens the plight of already displaced populations.
Conclusion
- The crisis in Myanmar represents a tragic intersection of civil war and climate change, disproportionately affecting children.
- With 4 million displaced, including 1.36 million children, the need for immediate humanitarian aid, international pressure for peace, and long-term solutions to climate vulnerability is more urgent than ever.
- Without focused action, an entire generation risks being lost to violence, displacement, and neglect.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 Consider the following statements regarding the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar:
1. The combined impact of civil conflict and climate change has led to widespread displacement, with children being the most affected group. 2. The ongoing violence in Myanmar, including the use of airstrikes and landmines in civilian areas, has significantly undermined access to healthcare, education, and safety for children. Which of the following best explains the implications of the above statements? (A) The crisis in Myanmar highlights the need for prioritizing children’s welfare in global humanitarian aid efforts. |
Q. Consider the following statements : (2022)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 3 only Ans: C |
| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · The statement clearly indicate that children are disproportionately affected by the crisis. This calls for targeted humanitarian aid focusing on their safety, health, and education, making this the best interpretation of the situation. · It highlight how children are disproportionately impacted by displacement, violence, and lack of essential services. This underscores the importance of focusing global humanitarian efforts on protecting and supporting vulnerable populations, especially children. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
What is Russia’s nuclear doctrine, newly updated by Vladimir Putin?
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS 2 International Relations
Context: Overview of Russia’s Updated Nuclear Doctrine
Why in News
- Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine lowers the threshold for nuclear use, expands threat definitions, and includes Belarus under its nuclear umbrella, reflecting heightened geopolitical tensions.
Overview
- On November 19, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree updating Russia’s nuclear weapons policy.
- This revision outlines Moscow’s nuclear deterrence strategies and the conditions under which it might consider using nuclear weapons, introducing significant updates to its previous doctrine from 2020.
Key Features of the Updated Doctrine
- Deterrence as the Core Principle
- The doctrine reaffirms the role of nuclear weapons as a means of deterring aggression against Russia.
- However, it introduces additional scenarios and risks that lower the threshold for nuclear use.
- Broader Applicability to the Ukraine War
- Increased Scope of Threat Perception:
- Aggression by a non-nuclear state, supported by a nuclear state, will now be treated as a joint attack.
- This framework links the US and NATO’s military aid to Ukraine with Russia’s consideration of a nuclear response.
- Air and Missile Attacks:
- The doctrine specifies that Russia may respond to reliable intelligence about impending large-scale air, missile, or drone attacks.
- This is particularly relevant as Ukraine, with the help of Western-supplied ATACMS missiles, has intensified aerial operations.
Key Changes and Additions
- Lowering the Threshold for Nuclear Use
- Previously, Russia stated it might use nuclear weapons only when its state’s existence was under threat.
- Now, nuclear weapons might be used in response to conventional attacks against Russia or its close ally Belarus if such attacks pose a critical threat to their sovereignty or territorial integrity.
- Belarus Under Russia’s Nuclear Umbrella
- Belarus is now officially covered under Russia’s nuclear deterrent, underscoring the nations’ close military ties.
- A conventional attack on Belarus is now included in the scenarios for a nuclear response.
- Expanded Targeting Criteria
- The doctrine explicitly targets not only nuclear-armed states but also non-nuclear states that:
- Host military coalitions or bases near Russia’s borders.
- Use their land, water, or airspace to plan or execute aggression against Russia.
- The doctrine explicitly targets not only nuclear-armed states but also non-nuclear states that:
- Emerging Threats and New Risks
- Military Coalitions: Formation or expansion of coalitions hostile to Russia.
- Military Exercises: Large-scale military drills near Russia’s borders could be seen as preparation for aggression.
Timing of the Announcement
- The updated doctrine was published after Ukraine’s unprecedented use of US-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike Russian targets on the same day.
- While this timing may seem reactive, analysts suggest the document had likely been under development for weeks, following Putin’s public mention of its key points on September 25, 2024.
Implications of the Doctrine
- Strategic Implications
- The broader definition of threats and lowered nuclear-use threshold increases global tensions, particularly with NATO and Ukraine.
- Placing Belarus under Russia’s nuclear umbrella strengthens its regional influence but risks escalating tensions with neighboring NATO states like Poland and Lithuania.
- Security Implications
- The doctrine legitimizes the possibility of nuclear escalation in response to perceived conventional threats, increasing unpredictability in conflict scenarios.
- Regional Dynamics
- The inclusion of military drills or coalitions near Russia’s borders as potential triggers for a nuclear response reflects Russia’s sensitivity to NATO’s presence in Eastern Europe.
- Global Response
- The West is likely to interpret this as a signal of Moscow’s increasing reliance on its nuclear arsenal amidst conventional military struggles in Ukraine.
Conclusion
- Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine represents a significant shift in its strategic posture, particularly by lowering the conditions for nuclear use and expanding the scope of threats.
- By emphasizing nuclear deterrence in the context of growing tensions with the West, the doctrine underscores the precarious nature of global security in the current geopolitical climate.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. With reference to Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine of 2024, consider the following statements:
1. Russia may use nuclear weapons in response to a conventional attack against Belarus if it poses a critical threat to its sovereignty or territorial integrity. 2. The doctrine targets only nuclear-armed states and excludes non-nuclear states from its scope of deterrence. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (A) 1 only (B) 2 only (C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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 3– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The updated doctrine explicitly includes Belarus under Russia’s nuclear umbrella, allowing a nuclear response to conventional attacks that threaten its sovereignty or territorial integrity. · Statement 2 is incorrect: The doctrine broadens the scope of deterrence to include non-nuclear states that allow their territory, airspace, or waters to be used for aggression against Russia. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Govt launches Bhu-Neer portal, a centralized platform for managing groundwater withdrawal permits
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance
Context: Bhu-Neer portal
Why in News
- The government launched the “Bhu-Neer” portal to streamline and digitalize groundwater withdrawal permits, promoting efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in groundwater management.
Overview
- The Government of India introduced the “Bhu-Neer” portal as a modern and centralized platform to manage groundwater withdrawal permits.
- This initiative was launched during the concluding ceremony of India Water Week 2024, held on September 19, and officially announced on November 20, 2024.
Objective of the Portal
The “Bhu-Neer” portal aims to:
- Improve Transparency and Efficiency: By making the groundwater withdrawal process digital and faceless.
- Enhance Sustainability: By ensuring compliance with groundwater regulations and promoting responsible use.
- Streamline Regulatory Processes: Aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of Ease of Doing Business, the portal simplifies the complex processes related to groundwater management.
Key Features of the “Bhu-Neer” Portal
- Advanced Digital Platform:
- Replaces the older NOCAP system with enhanced features.
- Simplifies the application process for groundwater withdrawal permits.
- Single ID System:
- Uses a PAN-based ID for centralized and seamless user access.
- User-Friendly Interface:
- Designed for ease of use by businesses, individuals, and stakeholders.
- QR-Coded No Objection Certificates (NOCs):
- Digital and secure NOCs generated for approved applications.
- Comprehensive Resource:
- Provides details on:
- Groundwater policies.
- Legal frameworks.
- Sustainable practices for water management.
- Provides details on:
Benefits of “Bhu-Neer”
- Ease of Access:
- Applicants can track the status of their permits and make payments online.
- Facilitates a seamless, faceless, and paperless application process.
- Guidance on Compliance:
- Offers resources to help stakeholders meet legal and regulatory requirements.
- Improved Governance:
- Strengthens groundwater governance by promoting transparency and accountability.
- Encourages Sustainable Use:
- Enables stakeholders to adopt sustainable groundwater practices.
Collaboration and Development
- The portal was developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) in partnership with the National Informatics Centre (NIC).
- This collaboration ensured the incorporation of advanced digital tools and an intuitive interface for users.
Significance for India
- Addressing Over-Exploitation:
India faces significant groundwater depletion challenges. The “Bhu-Neer” portal is a step towards addressing these concerns by improving monitoring and management. - Supporting Development Goals:
By enhancing groundwater management, the portal aligns with national goals of environmental sustainability and water security. - Boosting Business Environment:
The initiative complements the government’s efforts to improve the business climate by reducing administrative burdens and promoting ease of compliance.
Conclusion
- The “Bhu-Neer” portal is a transformative step in India’s groundwater management strategy, leveraging technology to ensure efficiency, transparency, and sustainability.
- It underscores the government’s commitment to balancing developmental needs with environmental protection, contributing to long-term water resource management.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the “Bhu-Neer” portal launched by the Government of India:
1. The “Bhu-Neer” portal is designed to manage groundwater withdrawal permits and replace the older NOCAP system. 2. It is a collaboration between the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) and the National Informatics Centre (NIC) to promote paper-based applications. 3. The portal introduces a PAN-based single ID system and QR-coded No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for digital compliance. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 only |
Q. With reference to ‘Water Credit’, consider the following statements: (2021)
1. It puts microfinance tools to work in the water and sanitation sector. 2. It is a global initiative launched under the aegis of the World Health Organization and the World Bank. 3. It aims to enable the poor people to meet their water needs without depending on subsidies. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (c)
|
| Answer 4- B
Explanation · Statement 1: Correct. The “Bhu-Neer” portal is designed to manage groundwater withdrawal permits and replaces the older NOCAP system. · Statement 2: Incorrect. The portal promotes a digital and faceless system, not paper-based applications. · Statement 3: Correct. The portal introduces a PAN-based single ID system and QR-coded No Objection Certificates (NOCs), which streamline the process digitally. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
India drops two places but remains among top 10 climate performers: Report
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Environment and Ecology
Context: 2025 Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI)
Why in News
- India ranked 10th in the 2025 Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) due to its low per capita emissions and rapid renewable energy deployment, despite challenges like reliance on coal.
Overview
- The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI 2025) report provides an assessment of the climate policies, emissions, and renewable energy progress of the world’s largest emitters.
- India ranked 10th in this index, showcasing its significant efforts in addressing climate change, though it has dropped two spots compared to the previous year.
India’s Position and Performance
- Ranking: India holds the 10th position in the 2025 CCPI, remaining one of the top performers among major countries. However, it has dropped two spots from its previous ranking, largely due to the growth-oriented approach to climate action that India continues to follow.
- Per Capita Emissions: India’s per capita emissions are low at 2.9 tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e), well below the global average of 6.6 tCO2e. This indicates that while India is the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases (GHGs), its emissions per individual remain relatively low, reflecting the country’s large population but low per capita energy use.
Key Drivers of India’s Performance
- Rapid Expansion of Renewables: One of India’s most notable achievements is the rapid deployment of renewable energy, especially solar power, which has been a major part of its strategy. India is committed to reaching 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030. This aligns with its international aspirations to become a leader in green energy.
- Net-Zero Target: India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, which has set a long-term goal for the country. This means balancing emissions with removals (such as carbon sequestration) over time.
- Energy Efficiency and Electric Vehicles: India has made strides in improving energy efficiency standards and deploying electric vehicles (EVs), particularly in the two-wheeler sector. However, the coverage of these energy efficiency measures remains inadequate, and the country still faces challenges in this area.
Challenges Facing India
- Reliance on Coal: Despite significant progress in renewable energy, India remains heavily reliant on coal. The country has some of the largest coal reserves in the world and is planning to increase coal production to meet growing energy demands. This reliance on coal remains a major barrier to achieving sustainable, low-carbon growth.
- Climate Policy Limitations: The CCPI report notes that India’s climate policy approach is unlikely to change drastically in the near term due to its focus on economic growth and industrial energy demand. While there are positive developments in areas like renewable energy and electric vehicles, the overall policy focus remains largely driven by the country’s rapid economic development, which is energy-intensive.
Global Comparison
- Top Performers: The first three spots in the CCPI remain empty, as no country met the criteria for a “very high” rating across all categories. Denmark ranks technically at the top, followed by the Netherlands and the UK.
- The UK made significant progress due to its coal phase-out and government pledges to stop new fossil fuel licenses, boosting its ranking.
- China, the world’s largest emitter, ranks very low at 55th, reflecting its continued dependence on coal and insufficient climate targets despite its promise of climate action.
- The US also remains in a low position at 57th due to a lack of sufficient progress in emissions reductions and insufficient climate policies.
- Other Low Performers: Countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Russia, which are major oil and gas producers, occupy the lowest spots (from 64th to 67th), highlighting the challenges oil-dependent economies face in reducing emissions.
Conclusion
While India continues to make progress and remains a global leader in renewable energy deployment, its heavy reliance on coal and the growth-focused policy approach mean that significant improvements in reducing emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy are still needed. The report underscores the importance of maintaining and enhancing current efforts while addressing ongoing challenges in order to secure a sustainable future.
India’s position in the CCPI 2025 reflects a mixed record in climate action:
- On one hand, India has made significant strides in renewable energy, low per capita emissions, and energy efficiency measures.
- On the other hand, it faces major challenges due to its economic growth trajectory, reliance on coal, and insufficient policy changes in the short term.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5 Which of the following statements are correct regarding India’s performance in the 2025 Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI)?
Select the correct answer using the code below: (A) 1, 3, and 4 |
Q. In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements: (2022)
Which of the statements, given above are correct? a) 1, 3 and 4 only b) 1 and 4 only c) 2, 3 and 4 only d) 1 and 2 only Ans: B
|
| Answer 5- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: India ranked 10th in the CCPI 2025, due to low per capita emissions and rapid renewable energy deployment. · Statement 2 is incorrect: India’s per capita emissions (2.9 tCO2e) are far below the global average (6.6 tCO2e). · Statement 3 is correct: India has pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2070 and aims for 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. · Statement 4 is correct: India remains heavily reliant on coal despite renewable energy advancements. · Therefore, option C is the correct answer. |