UPSC CARE 10th July 2025 Current Affairs

Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (10-07-2025)

News at a Glance

Disaster Management: Tragedy at Semmankuppam and the Dangers of Non-Interlocked Railway Crossings

Environment and Ecology: International Climate Negotiations Under UNFCCC

Rollback of Overage Vehicle Ban in Delhi and India’s Air Pollution Fight

International Relations: European Union’s CBAM and the BRICS Rejection

PM Modi conferred with Namibia’s highest civilian award

Science and Technology: Towards Redefining the SI Second: The Rise of Optical Atomic Clocks

Tragedy at Semmankuppam and the Dangers of Non-Interlocked Railway Crossings

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/death-by-negligence-on-the-railway-gate-accident-in-cuddalore/article69792259.ece

UPSC Relevance: GS-3 Disaster Management, Infrastructure

Context: Non-Interlocked Railway Crossings

Why in News

A tragic collision at a non-interlocked manned level crossing in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore district exposed serious flaws in India’s railway safety infrastructure, leading to the death of three schoolchildren.

Introduction

• On July 8, 2025, a tragic accident in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore district claimed the lives of three schoolchildren when their van was hit by the Villupuram-Mayiladuthurai Passenger train.
• The train, running at a speed of 95 kmph, struck the vehicle at a manned but non-interlocked level crossing at Semmankuppam and dragged it for nearly 50 metres.
• This heartbreaking incident has once again exposed the vulnerabilities in India’s railway safety mechanisms, particularly at non-interlocked level crossings, which continue to depend heavily on human vigilance.

Non-Interlocked vs Interlocked Crossings

• Non-Interlocked Manned Level Crossings (MLCs): These rely solely on the judgment and alertness of the gatekeeper, without automatic coordination with railway signaling systems.
  • Gate operation is manual.
  • Trains do not receive automatic caution or stop signals if the gate is open.
  • Gatekeepers are responsible for both communication and gate operation.
• Interlocked Manned Level Crossings:
  • Integrated with railway signaling systems.
  • Trains cannot proceed unless the gate is securely locked.
  • Considered significantly safer.

As of October 2024, there are 11,053 interlocked MLCs across India, but hundreds remain non-interlocked, especially in the Southern Railway zone, which reportedly still has over 300 such crossings.

Causes of the Cuddalore Accident: Conflicting Narratives

• Preliminary Reports:
  • Southern Railway alleges human error by the gatekeeper, who opened the gate under pressure from the van driver.
  • The gatekeeper has been suspended and arrested for criminal negligence.
• Contradictory Eyewitness Accounts:
  • A surviving student reported the gate was already open, and the sound of the train was not heard.
  • Some suggest the gatekeeper had fallen asleep.
  • However, it was confirmed that the “private number” (a secret code confirming train approach) was exchanged shortly before the accident — indicating partial adherence to protocol.

According to the Indian Railways Permanent Way Manual, gatekeepers must keep gates closed until the train has completely passed — a step not followed here.

Systemic Issues Highlighted

1. Overdependence on Human Alertness

• Manual gate operation at non-interlocked crossings leaves room for lapses, especially under pressure from impatient motorists or fatigue due to long shifts.

2. Lack of Infrastructure Modernisation

• Despite the clear benefits of interlocked gates and calls from railway unions, the conversion rate remains slow.

3. Administrative Delays

• Southern Railway has alleged that the Cuddalore district administration delayed clearance for a railway-funded underpass project for over one year.
• Land acquisition, coordination gaps, and bureaucratic inertia often delay such safety upgrades.

Wider Implications

• This incident exposes a larger issue of safety in Indian rail transport, especially for children, who are among the most vulnerable.
• It questions the accountability of both railway personnel and local administrations in implementing preventive infrastructure.

Way Forward: Multi-Pronged Solutions

1. Accelerate Conversion to Interlocked Crossings

• Prioritise funding and execution of interlocking projects.
• Allocate resources from RRSK (Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh) or Nirbhaya Fund (for children’s safety where applicable).

2. Construct Road Overbridges (ROBs)/ Underpasses

• Remove manned level crossings in densely populated or high-traffic areas.
• Ensure inter-ministerial coordination to fast-track land acquisition and approvals.

3. Gatekeeper Reforms

• Improve training, reduce work hours, and implement accountability protocols.
• Introduce AI-based fatigue detection systems or biometric alert systems at gate cabins.

4. Community Engagement & Awareness

• Launch public campaigns to prevent impatient or negligent road use near crossings.
• Use school education modules to teach children road safety and rail crossing etiquette.

5. Strengthen Protocol Adherence

• Install CCTV cameras and record logs at every gate.
• Mandate automated alarms to gatekeepers well ahead of train approach.

Conclusion

• The Cuddalore school van tragedy is a wake-up call for India’s rail infrastructure. While human error appears to be a proximate cause, the root problem lies in systemic delays in modernising level crossings and implementing foolproof safety mechanisms.
• In a country where over 22 crore students commute daily, preventing such tragedies is not optional — it is urgent and necessary.
• The Indian Railways, in collaboration with state authorities, must fast-track infrastructure upgrades and ensure that safety is never compromised. Only then can we honour the memory of the innocent lives lost at Semmankuppam.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q1. With reference to railway safety in India, consider the following statements: An interlocked level crossing ensures that railway signals turn green only when the gates are securely locked. In non-interlocked level crossings, train signals and gate operations are electronically coordinated. The Indian Railways Permanent Way Manual mandates that gates must remain closed until the train has fully passed. The Southern Railway zone has fully eliminated all non-interlocked manned level crossings as of 2025. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 and 4 only C. 1, 2, and 3 only D. 1, 3, and 4 only

Q.  With reference to India’s projects on connectivity, consider the following statements: [2023] 1. East-West Corridor under Golden Quadrilateral Project connects Dibrugarh and Surat. 2. Trilateral Highway connects Moreh in Manipur and Chiang Mai in Thailand via Myanmar. 3. Bangladesh- China- India- Myanmar Economic Corridor connects Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with Kunming in China. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Ans: (d)

Answer 1- A Explanation Statement 1 is Correct – In an interlocked level crossing, the gate is electronically linked to the signaling system. The train signal turns green only when the gate is securely locked, ensuring coordination between train movement and road traffic safety. This mechanism significantly reduces human error. Statement 2 is Incorrect – Non-interlocked level crossings lack electronic coordination between the signal system and gate operation. Gatekeepers must manually communicate with station staff and operate the gates based on judgment and timing, making the system more prone to human error. Statement 3 is Correct – As per the Indian Railways Permanent Way Manual, the gate must remain closed until the entire train passes. Any deviation from this protocol constitutes a serious safety lapse, as seen in the Semmankuppam accident. Statement 4 is Incorrect – As of 2025, the Southern Railway zone still has over 300 non-interlocked manned level crossings. Hence, it has not yet achieved full elimination of such vulnerable points, despite repeated safety concerns and recommendations. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

International Climate Negotiations Under UNFCCC

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/reforming-unfccc-process-10114755/

UPSC Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology

Context: UNFCCC Reforms

Why in News

The UNFCCC climate negotiations are facing a credibility crisis due to weak outcomes, inadequate climate finance, and lack of accountability, prompting calls for systemic reforms ahead of COP30 in Brazil.

Introduction

• The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has served as the primary global forum for negotiating international climate action.
• However, over the past few years, its effectiveness and credibility have come under scrutiny.
• With underwhelming outcomes, delayed implementation of commitments, and increasing mistrust among nations—particularly developing and vulnerable countries—the UNFCCC process is facing a significant crisis of legitimacy.

Challenges Confronting the UNFCCC Process

1. Lack of Accountability Mechanisms

• One of the core criticisms is the absence of enforcement mechanisms. Developed countries have frequently missed their emission reduction targets and failed to deliver on climate finance commitments without facing any penalties.
• This has severely undermined trust in the system, especially from the Global South.

2. Marginalisation of Developing Countries’ Concerns

• Least developed countries (LDCs), small island developing states (SIDS), and other vulnerable nations have repeatedly voiced that their concerns are not taken seriously.
• These nations are often the least responsible for climate change but are the most affected.
• The principle of climate justice—which demands equitable responsibilities based on historical emissions and current capabilities—has not been adequately addressed.

3. Withdrawal of the United States

• The return of Donald Trump to the White House in 2025 led to another withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement.
• As one of the world’s largest emitters and a key financial contributor, the U.S. exit has cast doubt on the credibility and effectiveness of the UNFCCC framework and has the potential to derail global climate momentum.

Recent Efforts at Reform: The Bonn Climate Talks, June 2025

• The mid-year climate meeting in Bonn, Germany, acknowledged the growing complexity and inefficiency of the climate negotiation process. Several suggestions were put forth to reform and streamline the process:

Proposals Discussed by Parties

• Streamlining the number of agenda items to eliminate redundancy.
• Restricting the length of country and observer statements to ensure more effective use of time.
• Limiting the size of negotiating delegations to enhance inclusivity, especially for smaller nations with limited capacity.

These proposals were largely procedural and did not address the deeper structural challenges facing the climate negotiation process.

Civil Society Demands for Deeper Reforms

More than 200 climate advocacy groups and civil society organisations submitted a letter outlining five key demands for systemic reform:

1. Adoption of majority-based decision-making when consensus is unattainable.
2. Prohibiting countries with poor climate records from hosting COP meetings.
3. Restricting the participation of fossil fuel industry representatives in negotiations.
4. Increasing transparency and civil society engagement.
5. Enhancing accountability mechanisms for non-compliant nations.

Currently, the UNFCCC operates on a consensus basis, where even a single country can block a decision. This has resulted in watered-down outcomes and limited ambition in climate action.

Brazil’s Role as COP30 Host

Brazil, as the host of the upcoming COP30 meeting in November 2025, has taken an active role in attempting to rebuild trust in the negotiation process. In a letter to all parties, Brazil acknowledged the pressing need for reform and proposed several initiatives:

• Addressing structural issues such as overlapping agenda items, time management inefficiencies, and participation barriers for small delegations.
• Promoting the integration of climate concerns across other multilateral forums, including within financial institutions and UN agencies.
• Proposing the creation of additional multilateral platforms to complement the UNFCCC and accelerate the implementation of decisions.
• Collaborating with other nations on a 30-point priority agenda to expedite climate action.

Brazil has positioned itself as a bridge-builder between developed and developing countries and aims to restore confidence in multilateral climate governance.

Climate Finance: The Central Flashpoint

The Finance Gap

• A key source of contention remains the issue of climate finance. Under the 2015 Paris Agreement, developed countries pledged to mobilise at least $100 billion annually to assist developing countries in mitigation and adaptation efforts. However, this target has not been met consistently.
• Recent assessments indicate that the actual financial needs of developing countries are closer to $1.3 trillion per year. In response, developed countries have proposed raising $300 billion annually—but only starting from 2035.
• This is seen as grossly inadequate and further deepens mistrust.

Developments at the Bonn Meeting

• Developing countries, frustrated by the lack of concrete financial commitments, stalled proceedings during the Bonn meeting.
• They succeeded in forcing a special session on finance, although it ended without resolution. The issue is expected to dominate the COP30 agenda.

BRICS Perspective on Climate Finance

The BRICS group—comprising nine major emerging economies—issued a separate declaration on climate finance at their recent summit in Brazil. They called for:

• Full delivery of existing financial commitments under the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.
• Greater focus on adaptation finance, in addition to mitigation.

BRICS has also highlighted the need for structural reform in global climate finance institutions to ensure fair representation and responsiveness to developing country needs.

Structural Problems with UNFCCC

Issue	Impact
Consensus-based decision-making	Slows down progress; allows a single country to block global agreements
Weak compliance mechanisms	No consequences for non-performance
Inadequate climate finance	Disproportionate burden on developing nations
Host nation controversies	Undermines trust if fossil-fuel-reliant states host COP
Lobbying by polluting industries	Risk of diluted climate outcomes

The Way Forward

1. Institutional and Procedural Reforms

• Shift from pure consensus to qualified majority voting in select areas.
• Set criteria for COP host selection based on climate performance.
• Establish independent monitoring and accountability mechanisms.

2. Inclusive Negotiation Practices

• Provide financial and technical assistance to enable meaningful participation by LDCs and SIDS.
• Limit corporate lobbying and ensure transparency in sponsorship and participation.

3. Climate Finance Expansion

• Fulfil and surpass the $100 billion target with grant-based, predictable, and accessible finance.
• Encourage mobilisation of private capital, green bonds, and contributions from multilateral development banks.
• Create a dedicated global fund for adaptation, loss, and damage.

4. Strengthen Global Leadership

• Ensure continuity of climate action across electoral cycles in major economies.
• Encourage emerging economies, especially in the Global South, to take leadership roles in shaping climate diplomacy.

Conclusion

• The credibility of international climate negotiations under the UNFCCC is under serious threat.
• COP30 in Brazil offers a crucial opportunity to address this crisis through meaningful reforms, strengthened finance mechanisms, and a renewed focus on equity and accountability.
• Unless significant changes are introduced to enhance efficiency, inclusivity, and transparency, the ability of the international community to meet its climate goals will remain in jeopardy.
• Restoring faith in the UNFCCC process is not merely a diplomatic necessity—it is a planetary imperative.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q2. With reference to the ongoing reform debate within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), consider the following statements: The UNFCCC currently functions on a majority-voting system for adopting decisions. Developing countries have demanded greater climate finance and exclusion of fossil fuel companies from COP meetings. The Bonn climate meeting in 2025 conclusively agreed to a $1.3 trillion climate finance target starting 2030. Brazil, the host of COP30, has proposed mainstreaming climate discussions across other UN and multilateral platforms. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 3 only B) 2 and 4 only C) 2, 3, and 4 only D) 1, 2, and 4 only

Q.  With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016) The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN, and it will go into effect in 2017. The Agreement aims to limit the greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2ºC or even 1.5ºC above pre-industrial levels. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: B

Answer 2- C Explanation Statement 1 is Correct – The UNFCCC operates on a consensus model, meaning no decision can be adopted until all countries agree. This gives every country a de facto veto power, often leading to delays and diluted outcomes. Statement 2 is Correct – Over 200 civil society organisations have called for allowing majority-based decision-making when consensus fails, and have demanded that fossil fuel company representatives be excluded from the climate negotiations to prevent undue influence. Statement 3 is Incorrect – Although developing countries have demanded climate finance in the range of $1.3 trillion annually, the Bonn 2025 meeting did not result in such an agreement. Instead, developed countries proposed only $300 billion annually starting from 2035, which was considered insufficient. Statement 4 is Correct – Brazil has proposed that climate issues be mainstreamed across other multilateral platforms, including different UN agencies and financial institutions, to enhance coordination and support for climate action. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

 

Rollback of Overage Vehicle Ban in Delhi and India’s Air Pollution Fight

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/in-defence-of-delhis-old-vehicle-ban/article69793569.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology

Context: India’s Air Pollution

Why in News

Delhi’s attempt to enforce a decade-old ban on overage vehicles was rolled back within two days due to public protests, raising concerns over political will and environmental governance.

Introduction

• Air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has reached alarming levels in recent years, causing severe health, environmental, and economic damage. One of the major contributors to this pollution is vehicular emissions, particularly from old and outdated vehicles.
• In this context, Delhi’s attempt to enforce a long-standing ban on 10-year-old diesel and 15-year-old petrol vehicles starting July 1, 2025, was a significant step.
• However, the sudden rollback of this enforcement within two days raises important questions about political will, administrative preparedness, and public accountability in the fight against air pollution.

Background: The Legal and Policy Framework

• Supreme Court Orders (2014-2015): Mandated deregistration and ban on 15-year-old petrol and 10-year-old diesel vehicles in Delhi to curb pollution.
• National Green Tribunal (NGT): Reinforced similar directives; ordered impounding of such vehicles.
• Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): Empowered under the Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021, to coordinate pollution-control efforts across states.

The Recent Enforcement Attempt and Rollback

• Dates: Enforcement began on July 1, 2025, but was rolled back by July 3 due to protests and political pressure.
• Reason for Suspension: Protests by vehicle owners, alleged technical flaws in Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, and lack of public communication.
• Political Factor: BJP-led Delhi government’s decision to temporarily halt the campaign, despite earlier strong intent and announcements by Environment Minister M.S. Sirsa.

The Role and Importance of ANPR Technology

• Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR): Key tech tool to enforce bans without manual policing; integrated with pollution and registration databases.
• Success Indicator: Detected 35,000 vehicles with expired Pollution-Under-Control (PUC) certificates and imposed fines totaling ₹178 crore.
• Concerns Raised: Questions on its reliability by the Delhi government were contradicted by earlier endorsements and CAQM’s defense of the system.

Air Pollution: A Multi-Sectoral Challenge

While protestors argue that other pollution sources are more significant (e.g., construction, industry, biomass burning), vehicular emissions are direct, constant, and largely preventable.

• ICCT Study: Older BS-II, BS-III, and BS-IV vehicles emit 5–10 times more pollutants than BS-VI vehicles.
• Nature Journal Study (2024): Links ambient air pollution to lung cancer in non-smokers, underlining the health risk from vehicular emissions.
• CAQM Estimate: End-of-life vehicles are a significant contributor to PM2.5 and NOx in NCR air.

Socio-Political Constraints

• Public Resistance: Vehicle ownership is associated with mobility, status, and livelihood, particularly among middle-income groups.
• Public Transit Gaps: Despite a strong Metro and electric bus network, last-mile connectivity remains poor; cycling and walking infrastructure is insufficient.
• Policy Fatigue: Past failures (e.g., AAP’s smog towers) have undermined public confidence in pollution-control policies.

Implications of the Rollback

1. Governance and Political Will

• The rollback undermines the credibility of the CAQM and reflects weak political resolve, despite court orders and scientific evidence.
• Sets a dangerous precedent that policy can be reversed under public pressure, even if it serves the greater good.

2. Health and Environment

• The delay exposes millions to prolonged toxic air, particularly children, elderly, outdoor workers, and traffic police.
• Long-term public health costs of inaction far outweigh the short-term political benefits of appeasement.

3. Economic Consequences

• Air pollution hurts investment and tourism, as noted by G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant and SBI MD Ashwini Tewari.
• Cleaner air is essential for India’s goal of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047.

The Road Ahead: What Must Be Done

1. Resume Enforcement with Transparency

• The enforcement must resume on November 1, as scheduled, across Delhi and five NCR cities.
• Public release of data on enforcement effectiveness, number of impounded vehicles, and pollution reduction.

2. Improve Public Transit and Urban Design

• Augment last-mile connectivity, safety, and infrastructure for buses, Metro, walking, and cycling.
• Reduce dependence on private vehicles by making public transport the default choice.

3. Address Other Pollution Sources

• Continue crackdown on construction dust, open burning, thermal plants, and industrial pollution.
• Implement pollution audit systems, strict monitoring, and enforcement against violators across sectors.

4. Communicate the Science

• Use social media, public campaigns, and local influencers to explain the health impact of air pollution and benefits of reducing overage vehicles.

5. Monitor ANPR System Performance

• Strengthen and calibrate the ANPR system with independent verification.
• Ensure legal and data protection frameworks for its operation.

Conclusion

• The rollback of the overage vehicle ban in Delhi is not merely a bureaucratic hiccup; it is a litmus test for the seriousness with which India approaches one of its gravest urban crises — air pollution. With technology in place, court orders backing the action, and ample scientific evidence, there is little excuse for inaction.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q3. Consider the following: Assertion (A): The enforcement of the ban on overage vehicles in Delhi was rolled back within two days of its implementation. Reason (R): The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) permanently withdrew the ban following concerns over ANPR technology and public protests. Select the correct answer using the codes below: A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A. B) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A. C) A is true, but R is false. D) A is false, but R is true.

Q.  Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution? (2020)  Automobile exhaust Tobacco smoke Wood burning Using varnished wooden furniture Using products made of polyurethane Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Ans: (a)

Answer 3- C Explanation Assertion (A) is Correct – The Delhi government-initiated enforcement of a long-standing ban on 10-year-old diesel and 15-year-old petrol vehicles on July 1, 2025, but rolled it back by July 3, citing public protests and technical concerns. Reason (R) is Incorrect – The CAQM did not permanently withdraw the ban. Instead, it agreed to a temporary suspension of the enforcement operation but reaffirmed its commitment to resume action from November 1, 2025, and expand the ban to five NCR cities. It also defended the reliability of ANPR (Automated Number Plate Recognition) technology used for enforcement. Therefore, while the rollback did occur, it was not due to a permanent policy reversal by CAQM, making the reason incorrect. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

 

European Union’s CBAM and the BRICS Rejection

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/cbam-brics-10116036/

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations

Context: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

Why in News?

The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) imposes a carbon tax on imports from countries with weaker emission norms.

Introduction

• The European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) has become a flashpoint in global climate diplomacy and international trade, with developing nations, particularly BRICS countries, condemning it as protectionist and discriminatory.
• Introduced ostensibly to curb “carbon leakage,” CBAM imposes a carbon tax on imports from countries with lax environmental regulations, thereby impacting the competitiveness of exporters like India and China.

What is CBAM?

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is a carbon import tax initiated by the European Union in 2023, entering full implementation by 2026.

Key Features of CBAM:

• Applies to carbon-intensive goods like steel, cement, aluminium, fertilizers, hydrogen, and electricity.
• Taxes are based on the carbon emissions during production in the exporting country.
• EU importers must buy carbon certificates equivalent to the carbon price if the goods were made under EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) norms.
• If exporters prove they have already paid a carbon price in their own country, costs may be adjusted.

Objective: To prevent carbon leakage—where companies relocate production to countries with weaker emission norms—and to maintain EU industry competitiveness while promoting global decarbonization.

Why Has BRICS Rejected CBAM?

• At the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the member nations, including India, China, and Brazil, issued a joint statement rejecting CBAM and similar “unilateral, punitive and discriminatory” trade measures.

Major Concerns Raised by BRICS:

1. Violation of Trade and Climate Agreements

• CBAM is viewed as violating WTO principles of fair and non-discriminatory trade.
• It contradicts the Paris Agreement’s principles of “common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR)”, which allow developing nations more time and space to transition towards cleaner economies.

2. Economic Disadvantage to Developing Nations

• Developing countries often rely on carbon-intensive industries for growth.
• CBAM disproportionately affects their exports, making them less competitive in the EU market.

3. Unilateralism in Climate Policy

• Climate policy must be multilateral, not imposed by one bloc (the EU).
• CBAM is seen as a “response measure” that causes economic harm under the pretext of environmental concern.

4. Risk of Market Distortion

• BRICS and the BASIC group (Brazil, South Africa, India, China) have warned that CBAM could distort global markets and shift the burden of mitigation onto developing economies.

CBAM vs Paris Agreement & COP Decisions

Paris Agreement (2015)

• Protects developing nations from the adverse socio-economic impacts of climate mitigation by developed nations.
• Emphasizes CBDR-RC (Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities).

COP28 (Dubai, 2023) Declaration

• Stated that “unilateral measures should not constitute unjustifiable discrimination or disguised restrictions on international trade.”

Despite these declarations, the EU has proceeded with CBAM, ignoring multilateral consensus.

Wider Trends: Rise of Climate-linked Trade Barriers

CBAM is not isolated. Other developed countries are adopting climate-aligned trade policies, creating a trend of eco-protectionism.

Examples:

• USA’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), 2022: Provides massive subsidies for domestic clean energy industries, affecting fair trade.
• UK and Canada: Considering their own CBAM frameworks.
• EU bans on products from illegally harvested forests.

Implication: Such mechanisms can restructure global trade patterns, disadvantaging Global South economies while benefiting clean-tech dominant North economies.

India’s Stand and Diplomatic Pushback

India has consistently opposed CBAM across global platforms:

At COP27 (2022), COP28 (2023), and COP29 (2024):

• India, along with BASIC nations, demanded a discussion on climate-related trade restrictions.
• India warned CBAM could widen the trust deficit and hamper North-South cooperation in climate action.

Recent Actions:

• India and China’s push delayed the opening of COP29 in Baku (Nov 2024) over this agenda.
• Indian policymakers have called CBAM a disguised trade barrier that threatens the export economy, especially in sectors like steel, cement, and fertilizers.

Forward Linkages: What Lies Ahead?

Implications for Global Trade:

• Potential fragmentation of global trade systems into climate-aligned blocs.
• Possible trade retaliation or formation of developing country alliances to resist green protectionism.

Impact on India:

• Immediate impact on exports to EU (worth billions of dollars).
• May accelerate India’s decarbonization and clean energy investments, but at high transition costs.
• India may need to enhance domestic carbon pricing, certification standards, and MRV (Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification) mechanisms.

Conclusion

• While CBAM aims to address the legitimate issue of global carbon emissions, its unilateral and punitive nature disproportionately affects developing economies.
• The BRICS condemnation reflects broader concerns about climate justice, equity, and fair trade.
• A more equitable global climate policy would need multilateral negotiations, technology transfer, and financial assistance, not protectionist tools disguised as environmental solutions.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q4. With reference to the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), consider the following statements: CBAM seeks to prevent carbon leakage by levying a carbon tax on imports from countries with weaker emission regulations. CBAM applies to both intra-EU and extra-EU trade of carbon-intensive goods. BRICS countries have condemned CBAM, calling it a unilateral and discriminatory trade barrier. CBAM allows deductions if the exporting country proves an equivalent carbon price has already been paid. Which of the above statements are correct? A. 1, 2 and 3 only B. 1, 3 and 4 only C. 2 and 4 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Q. Consider the following statements: (2023) The ‘Stability and Growth Pact’ of the European Union is a treaty that limits the levels of the budgetary deficit of the countries of the European Union makes the countries of the European Union to share their infrastructure facilitie enables the countries of the European Union to share their technologie How many of the above statements are correct (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Exp: (a)

Answer – 4 – B Explanation – Statement 1 is Correct – CBAM is designed to prevent carbon leakage by imposing a carbon import tax on goods from countries where emission standards are more lenient than the EU’s, thereby encouraging cleaner production globally. Statement 2 is Incorrect – CBAM applies only to imports from non-EU countries, not to intra-EU trade. It is a border measure, not an internal EU pricing mechanism. Statement 3 is Correct – The BRICS grouping, including India and China, has officially condemned and rejected CBAM, calling it unilateral, punitive, and in violation of international trade norms. Statement 4 is Correct – CBAM allows deductions for carbon costs already paid in the exporting country, if the exporter can provide verifiable proof, thus avoiding double taxation. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

PM Modi conferred with Namibia’s highest civilian award

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-modi-conferred-with-namibias-highest-civilian-award/article69792308.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations

Context: Namibia’s highest civilian award

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Namibia’s highest civilian honour, the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis

Introduction

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Namibia’s highest civilian award — the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis — by Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
• This honour was presented during PM Modi’s visit to Namibia, marking the last leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour.

Significance of the Visit

• Historic Diplomacy: This was PM Modi’s first visit to Namibia and only the third-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country, symbolising the strengthening of India–Namibia relations.
• Part of a Larger Diplomatic Outreach: The visit forms part of India’s ongoing efforts to enhance ties with African nations, aligning with the government’s Vision for Global South Solidarity and India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) objectives.

About the Award:

• Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis:
  • Named after Welwitschia Mirabilis, an endemic and ancient plant native to the Namib Desert, the award symbolises resilience, longevity, and strength — qualities attributed to leadership and friendship.
• Symbolic Honour:
  • The award reflects Namibia’s deep appreciation for India’s consistent support in areas like decolonization, healthcare, education, and capacity building.
  • PM Modi became the first Indian recipient of this honour.

Bilateral Engagements and Agreements

PM Modi held bilateral talks with President Nandi-Ndaitwah, leading to the signing of four major agreements to enhance cooperation in key sectors:

1. Energy Cooperation

• Focus on renewable energy, especially solar and green hydrogen.
• India to provide technical support and investments in Namibia’s clean energy sector.
• Ties strengthened under India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) framework.

2. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

• Agreements to facilitate Indian pharma exports to Namibia.
• Collaboration in telemedicine, diagnostics, and capacity building of healthcare professionals.
• Namibia welcomed India’s Global South Vaccine Initiative and pharma diplomacy.

3. Education and Skills Development

• Expansion of scholarships and technical training under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.
• Support for digital education platforms and vocational training centers in Namibia.

4. Digital Transformation and ICT

• Agreement to support Namibia’s digital public infrastructure in line with India’s India Stack and Digital Public Goods (DPGs) model.
• Cooperation in cybersecurity, e-governance, and data management.

Broader Strategic Significance

• India–Africa Relations: This visit reaffirms India’s commitment to Africa’s developmental priorities, particularly in line with the principles of South-South Cooperation and demand-driven development aid.
• Geostrategic Engagement: Namibia is resource-rich (especially in uranium and rare earth elements), making it strategically important for India’s energy security and critical minerals supply chain diversification.
• Global South Leadership: PM Modi’s honour enhances India’s image as a trusted partner and voice of the Global South, especially ahead of the India–Africa Forum Summit IV.

Conclusion

• PM Modi’s visit to Namibia and the conferment of the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis is a landmark in India–Namibia diplomatic relations.
• It not only celebrates shared historical ties and solidarity but also paves the way for a modern partnership rooted in energy, healthcare, education, and digital cooperation.
• This visit aligns with India’s broader foreign policy vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and its aspiration to be a leading development partner in Africa and the Global South.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the “Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis”: The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis is Namibia’s highest civilian award, named after a desert plant known for its longevity and resilience. IndianPrime Minister is the first foreign head of government to receive this honour from Namibia. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A) Only 1 B) Only 2 C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q.  With reference to the “United Nations Credentials Committee”, consider the following statements: 2022 1. It is a committee set up by the UN Security Council and works under its supervision. 2. It traditionally meets in March, June and September every year. 3. It assesses the credentials of all UN members before submitting a report to the General Assembly for approval. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 3 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 1 and 2 only

Answer – 5 – A Explanation – Statement 1 is Correct – The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis is indeed Namibia’s highest civilian award. It is named after Welwitschia Mirabilis, a unique, ancient plant found in the Namib Desert that symbolizes resilience, survival, and strength. Statement 2 is Incorrect – While Prime Minister Narendra Modi received this award in July 2025, there is no official confirmation that he is the first foreign head of government to be honoured with it. The award may have been conferred previously on other international dignitaries, so the statement cannot be considered definitively correct without further authenticated information. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Towards Redefining the SI Second: The Rise of Optical Atomic Clocks

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/intercontinental-optical-clock-comparison-sets-stage-to-redefine-the-second/article69787042.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology

Context: Optical Atomic Clocks

Why in News?

Scientists across six countries conducted the largest international comparison of optical atomic clocks to validate their precision before redefining the SI second.

Introduction

• Time is a fundamental parameter in both daily life and scientific research. The global standard for time—the SI unit of the second—is currently based on the microwave frequency emitted by caesium-133 atoms.
• However, with technological advances demanding more precision, the scientific community is preparing to redefine the second using optical atomic clocks, which are expected to become the new global time standard by 2030.
• In a landmark development, 65 researchers across six national metrology institutes spanning three continents have completed the largest head-to-head test of atomic clocks in history, validating the extraordinary precision of optical clocks and identifying areas for further improvement.

The Existing Standard: Caesium Atomic Clocks

• Since 1967, the SI second has been defined as:

“The duration of 9,192,631,770 periods of radiation corresponding to the transition between the two hyperfine levels of the ground state of the caesium-133 atom.”

• These caesium (Cs) atomic clocks generate a microwave signal at 9.2 GHz, and electronics use this to define one second.
• India’s national time standard is maintained by five Cs atomic clocks at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), New Delhi. The output is disseminated via INSAT satellites, telecommunication networks, and fibre links.

Limitations:

• Although highly accurate (losing 1 second in 300 million years), Cs clocks do not meet the demands of modern applications such as GPS, radio astronomy, climate science, and quantum technologies.

The Future Standard: Optical Atomic Clocks

• Optical clocks use atoms like strontium (Sr) or ytterbium (Yb), which emit radiation at optical frequencies (hundreds of THz), i.e., about 10,000 times higher than microwave frequencies.
• Because frequency is the inverse of time, higher frequencies allow finer time resolution, thus making optical clocks far more stable.

Key Advantages:

• Measure time to 18 decimal places.
• Some have been shown to drift only 1 second in 15 billion years.
• Enable ultra-precise geodesy, fundamental physics tests, and deep-space navigation.

The 2022 Global Comparison Test

• Conducted over 45 days (Feb 20–April 6, 2022).
• Involved 10 optical atomic clocks located in 6 countries (Finland, France, Germany, Italy, U.K., Japan).
• Based on 5 different atomic species:
  • Neutral atoms: Sr-87, Yb-171
  • Ions: Yb⁺ (E2 & E3 states), Sr⁺-88, In⁺-115

Connectivity and Synchronisation Techniques

• Local fibre optic links in Germany for intra-building connections.
• Telecommunication fibre networks across France, Germany, and Italy.
• GPS-based Integer Precise Point Positioning (IPPP) used across seas and to Japan.
• Backup clocks using simpler systems filled in during downtime.

Key Findings

• 38 independent frequency ratios measured, a record for such campaigns.
• Four new ratios measured for the first time.
• Tightest match: In⁺ and Yb⁺(E3) in Germany with uncertainty of 4.4 × 10⁻¹⁸.
• France and Germany Sr clocks matched within 2 × 10⁻¹⁶ by both fibre and GPS.
• UK and Germany clocks matched across the North Sea within 3 × 10⁻¹⁶.

Gaps Identified and Future Directions

Discrepancies:

• The Italian Yb clock showed GPS-based errors ~4 × 10⁻¹⁶, pointing to signal distortion.
• France and Germany Sr clocks had small systematic offsets (~2 × 10⁻¹⁶).
• These variances must be addressed to ensure uniformity in the future time standard.

Innovations in Analysis:

• A 38×38 correlation matrix was created to capture 242 non-zero correlations, helping future studies avoid double-counting and ensure responsible data integration.

Broader Significance and Applications

1. Navigation & Space

• Satellite systems (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, NavIC) require precise clocks for accurate positioning.

2. Astronomy

• Interferometric imaging (e.g., black hole imaging) depends on synchronization of signals over vast distances.

3. Earth Sciences

• Time variations help detect subtle gravitational field changes, aiding in water and ice mass monitoring.

4. Fundamental Physics

• Clocks test constancy of physical constants like the fine structure constant (α), aiding quantum gravity research.

Conclusion

• The 2022 multi-national clock comparison project has marked a major step toward redefining the SI second using optical atomic clocks.
• By demonstrating that clocks using different atomic species and spread across three continents can agree to an unprecedented precision (up to 10⁻¹⁸), scientists have not only validated the feasibility of the new time standard but also laid the groundwork for global time synchronisation in the 21st century.
• As we approach 2030, resolving the minor discrepancies highlighted in this test and building international consensus will be critical to ushering in a new era of timekeeping—one more suited to the needs of science, technology, and society.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q6 With reference to the optical atomic clocks, consider the following statements: Optical clocks operate at higher frequencies than microwave-based caesium clocks. They can measure time more precisely due to a greater number of oscillations per second. India’s National Physical Laboratory currently maintains the global time standard using optical clocks. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.  Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System? (2023) a. Australia b. Canada c. Israel d. Japan Ans: d

Answer – 6 – A Explanation – Statement 1 is Correct – Optical atomic clocks function using transitions at optical frequencies (hundreds of terahertz), which are significantly higher than the microwave frequencies (~9.19 GHz) used by caesium clocks. This higher frequency contributes to greater precision. Statement 2 is Correct – The greater number of oscillations (waves) per second in optical radiation means these clocks can divide time into finer intervals, allowing measurements of one second to up to 18 decimal places, thereby increasing timekeeping accuracy. Statement 3 is Incorrect – India’s National Physical Laboratory (NPL) currently uses caesium atomic clocks, not optical clocks, to maintain its national time standard. Optical clocks are under development globally and are not yet the official standard. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.