In today’s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants, we explore the latest developments that hold relevance for the upcoming civil services examination. Our focus today includes a critical analysis of recent policy changes, international affairs, and national developments, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political and economic landscape of India. Stay informed and stay ahead in your UPSC preparations with our daily current affairs updates, as we provide you with concise, well-researched insights to help you connect the dots between contemporary events and the broader canvas of the civil services syllabus.
Emissions Gap Report 2023: UNEP
Tag: GS-3 Environment
In News:
UNEP has issued the 2023 Emissions Gap Report, titled “Broken Record,” emphasizing the world’s failure to reduce emissions despite reaching new temperature highs.
Critical Assessment of Global Climate Efforts: Emissions, Pledges, and the Challenge of Limiting Warming
Temperature Trajectory and Paris Agreement Pledges
- Current commitments under the Paris Agreement put the world on track for a 2.5-2.9°C temperature increase by the century’s end.
- To achieve the 1.5-2°C goal, a substantial 28-42% emission reduction by 2030 is imperative.
Global Emissions Trends
- Greenhouse gas emissions reached a record 57.4 GtCO2e in 2022, with a 1.2% increase.
- Fossil CO2 emissions, responsible for two-thirds of GHG, grew by 0.8–1.5%, driving the overall increase.
- Variability in G20 emissions, with increases in some nations and decreases in others, highlights the collective responsibility of major economies.
Emissions from Major Economic Sectors
- Emissions are categorized into five major sectors: Energy supply, industry, agriculture and LULUCF, transport, and buildings.
- Energy supply (36%) and industry (25%) are the leading contributors, emphasizing the need for targeted sector-specific mitigation strategies.
Mitigation Efforts and Projected Warming
- If current policies persist, global warming is anticipated to reach 3°C by the century’s end.
- Unconditional Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) may limit the rise to 2.9°C, while conditional NDCs might cap it at 2.5°C.
Net-Zero Pledges and Reality Check
- Despite Net-Zero Pledges, none of the G20 nations are aligning their emissions reductions with their targets.
- Even in an optimistic scenario, the likelihood of limiting warming to 1.5°C is only 14%, underscoring the urgency for more ambitious actions.
Progress and Challenges Since the Paris Agreement
- While policy progress has narrowed the implementation gap, it falls short of what is required.
- Nine countries updated their NDCs, potentially reducing emissions by about 9% annually by 2030, but further reductions are necessary for a cost-effective pathway to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
Bridging the Emissions Gap: Key Recommendations for Global Climate Action
Advancing Low-Carbon Development
- Urgent global efforts are required to transition towards low-carbon development, with a primary focus on transforming the energy sector.
- The current trajectory of fossil fuel extraction and usage surpasses the carbon budget needed to achieve temperature goals.
Support and Financing Responsibilities
- Nations with greater emission-generating capacity must take more ambitious actions and provide financial and technical support to developing countries.
- Low- and middle-income nations, responsible for over two-thirds of global emissions, should pursue development with low-emission growth trajectories.
Carbon Dioxide Removal Considerations
- Future reliance on carbon dioxide removal is inevitable, but new methods carry risks, including the absence of fully developed technologies.
- The imperative to act is clear – delaying action will only intensify challenges, emphasizing the need to transition away from insufficient measures and set new benchmarks for emissions reduction, green transitions, and climate finance immediately.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2016) Q. The ‘Common Carbon Metric’, supported by UNEP, has been developed for (a) assessing the carbon footprint of building operations around the world (b) enabling commercial fanning entities around the world to enter carbon emission trading(c) enabling governments to assess the overall carbon footprint caused by their countries (d) assessing the overall carbon foot-print caused by the use of fossil fuels by the world in a unit time Ans: (a) Mains (2022) Q. Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. |
Source: IE
The collapse of the tunnel in Uttarkashi.
Tag: GS-3 Environment
In News:
The Silkyara-Barkot tunnel under construction along the Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, recently collapsed, entrapping a considerable number of workers.
About Silkyara-Barkot tunnel
- The Silkyara-Barkot tunnel is a crucial component of the expansive Char Dham all-weather road initiative led by the Central Government.
- The construction of this tunnel was entrusted to the Hyderabad-based Navayuga Engineering Company by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL), a wholly owned entity of the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India.
Possible Reasons for Silkyara-Barkot Tunnel Collapse
- While the precise cause of the tunnel collapse remains under investigation, a potential contributing factor could be:
- The collapsed segment, located approximately 200-300 meters from the tunnel entrance, may have harboured an unseen area of fractured or weak rock, not easily detectable during the construction phase.
- Water infiltration through this compromised rock might have gradually eroded it, forming an inconspicuous void above the tunnel structure.
Key Components in Tunnel Construction and Critical Considerations
Tunnel Excavation Techniques:
Drill and Blast Method (DBM)
- Involves drilling holes into rock and using explosives for fragmentation.
- Commonly employed in challenging terrains like the Himalayas (Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand).
Tunnel-Boring Machines (TBMs)
- Utilizes machines to bore through rock while supporting the tunnel with precast concrete segments.
- Although more expensive, TBMs are considered safer, particularly effective when dealing with rock covers up to 400 meters tall. This method was employed for constructing underground tunnels in the Delhi Metro at shallow depths.
Aspects in Tunnel Construction:
Rock Investigation
- Comprehensive assessment of rock strength and composition using seismic waves and petrographic analysis.
- Aims to determine the rock’s load-bearing capacity and overall stability.
Monitoring and Support
- Continuous monitoring through stress and deformation meters.
- Implementation of support mechanisms such as shotcrete, rock bolts, steel ribs, and specialized tunnel pipe umbrellas.
Geologist Assessments
- Independent geologists play a pivotal role in examining the tunnel, forecasting potential failures, and determining the rock’s stability duration.
Prominent Tunnels Across India
Atal Tunnel
- Located under the Rohtang Pass in the Himalayas on the Leh-Manali Highway in Himachal Pradesh.
- Stretches over 9.02 km, making it the world’s longest tunnel above 10,000 feet (3,048 m).
Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel
- India’s longest transportation railway tunnel, measuring 11.2 km.
- Runs through the Pir Panjal Mountain range, connecting Quazigund and Baramulla.
Jawahar Tunnel
- Also known as Banihal Tunnel, it spans 2.85 km in length.
- Ensures year-round road connectivity between Srinagar and Jammu.
Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Road Tunnel
- Formerly called Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, it holds the distinction of being India’s longest road tunnel.
- Extends over 9.3 km in length.
Guidelines for Enhancing Tunnel Safety and Sustainability
Routine Maintenance Practices
- Enforce a rigorous maintenance regimen, incorporating regular inspections for structural soundness, drainage efficacy, and ventilation functionality to promptly identify and address issues.
Advanced Monitoring Systems
- Deploy sensors and monitoring technologies for continual assessment of structural health, enabling the early detection of potential weaknesses or anomalies.
Comprehensive Risk Evaluation and Preparedness
- Conduct periodic third-party risk assessments, considering geological, environmental, and usage variables.
- Develop contingency plans and emergency protocols to address any structural concerns swiftly.
Training and Awareness Initiatives
- Provide comprehensive training for personnel in tunnel management and emergency response procedures.
- Initiate public awareness campaigns to educate users and nearby residents about safety measures and reporting mechanisms.
Integration of Technology
- Explore the integration of innovative technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, drones, or robotics to enhance the efficiency of inspections, maintenance, and early detection of potential issues.
Source: TH
Tantalum
Tag: GS- 1 Mineral & Energy Resources GS- 3 Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology, Scientific Innovations & Discoveries
In News:
A team of researchers from IIT Ropar, has uncovered tantalum, a rare metal with exceptional properties, in the sands of the Sutlej River in Punjab.
Key Insights into Tantalum: A Rare and Versatile Metal
Discovery
- Tantalum, an uncommon metal boasting an atomic number of 73, was initially identified in 1802 by Swedish chemist Anders Gustaf Ekenberg.
Distinctive Properties
- Exhibiting a grey hue, tantalum is both dense and remarkably resistant to corrosion, developing an oxide layer upon exposure to air.
- Pure tantalum is ductile, allowing it to be elongated into thin wires without fracturing.
- Highly resistant to chemical attacks below 150°C, it remains unaffected except by hydrofluoric acid, acidic solutions with fluoride ions, and free sulphur trioxide.
- Tantalum boasts an exceptionally high melting point.
Applications of Tantalum
Electronic Sector
- Crucial for portable electronic devices, tantalum capacitors enable the efficient storage of more electricity in compact sizes.
- Recognized among 30 critical minerals for India, as identified by a committee of experts within the Ministry of Mines.
- Utilized in manufacturing components for chemical plants, nuclear power plants, aircraft, and missiles.
Platinum Substitute
- Serving as a cost-effective alternative to platinum due to its high melting point.
Medical Applications
- Inert to bodily fluids, tantalum is employed in crafting surgical equipment and implants, including artificial joints, according to the US Department of Energy.
Cutting-Edge Material
- Tantalum carbide (TaC) composite with graphite stands as one of the toughest materials, applied in high-speed machine tool cutting edges.
Why discovery of tantalum in the Sutlej holds importance?
- The identification of tantalum in the sands of the Sutlej River suggests the existence of a possible tantalum source in India.
- This discovery has the potential to diminish reliance on imports and bolster domestic supply.
- Currently, India primarily imports Tantalum metal from the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany.
- The presence of tantalum offers significant prospects for advancing India’s electronics and semiconductor industry.
Source: IE
e-Visa
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News:
After a two-month suspension, India has reinstated e-visa services for Canadian citizens.
About e-Visa
- E-visas are offered in five categories, including tourist, business, conference, medical, and medical attendant.
- This online application system allows foreigners to apply four days before their intended travel date.
- Once the details are verified, an electronic travel authorization (ETA) is generated, which must be presented at the immigration checkpoint upon arrival.
- Entry using e-visas is restricted to 28 specified international airports and five major seaports in India.
- While this convenient facility was initially available to citizens of 171 countries before the 2020 restrictions, it has now been reinstated for 156 countries.
Significance of e-visa
Convenience and Efficiency
- E-visas streamline the visa application process, allowing travellers to apply online, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and visits to consulates or embassies.
Accessibility
- E-visas make the visa application process more accessible to a wider audience, including those residing in remote areas or regions without diplomatic missions.
Enhanced Security
- The digital nature of e-visas incorporates advanced security features, reducing the risk of fraud and providing a more secure means of verifying travellers’ identities.
Cost-Effective
- The digital processing of e-visas often reduces administrative costs for both governments and applicants, contributing to a more cost-effective and efficient visa system.
Tourism Promotion
- E-visas can stimulate tourism by simplifying the entry process, attracting more visitors who may be deterred by complex and time-consuming visa procedures.
Global Connectivity
- E-visas contribute to fostering global connectivity by encouraging international travel and exchanges, thereby promoting cultural understanding and economic ties between countries.
Challenges associated with their implementation
Cybersecurity Risks
- E-visa systems are susceptible to cybersecurity threats, including hacking and identity theft. Protecting sensitive personal information is crucial to maintaining the security of the online application process.
Digital Divide
- The digital nature of e-visas may exclude individuals who lack access to the internet or are not proficient in using online platforms, leading to a potential disparity in visa accessibility.
Technical Glitches
- Technical issues, such as website crashes or glitches in the online application system, can hinder the application process and create frustration among applicants.
Fraudulent Activities
- The online environment provides opportunities for fraudulent activities, including the submission of false documents or misrepresentation of information. Governments must implement robust verification mechanisms to counter such issues.
Data Privacy Concerns
- E-visa systems involve the collection and storage of significant amounts of personal data. Ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations and safeguarding against data breaches is a critical challenge.
Way Forward
Enhance Cybersecurity Measure
- Invest in robust cybersecurity infrastructure to protect against potential threats, ensuring the secure handling of sensitive personal information.
Improve Accessibility and Digital Literacy
- Implement measures to bridge the digital divide by providing access to e-visa application facilities for individuals with limited internet access. Additionally, conduct awareness campaigns to enhance digital literacy.
Regular System Audits and Updates
- Conduct regular audits of e-visa systems to identify vulnerabilities and implement timely updates to address technical glitches and potential security risks.
Strengthen Fraud Detection Mechanisms
- Implement advanced fraud detection tools and procedures to identify and prevent fraudulent activities during the e-visa application process.
Data Privacy Compliance
- Ensure strict compliance with data privacy regulations and establish transparent policies regarding the collection, storage, and sharing of personal information.
Source: TH
Sea Buckthorn
Tag: GS-3 Environment
In News:
Ladakh has obtained its fourth Geographical Indication (GI) tag, this time for the “Ladakh Sea Buckthorn.”
About Sea Buckthorn
- Sea buckthorn, a shrub known for yielding orange-yellow edible berries, is prevalent in India’s Himalayan region, particularly in arid zones like the cold deserts of Ladakh and Spiti.
- The cultivation of Sea Buckthorn brings numerous ecological, medicinal, and economic advantages.
- Beyond its vibrant berries, the plant is recognized for its hardiness in challenging climates, contributing to soil conservation and biodiversity in regions where it thrives.
- Moreover, the berries are rich in nutrients, making them a valuable resource for medicinal applications and dietary supplements.
- Economically, the cultivation of Sea Buckthorn presents opportunities for income generation, promoting sustainable practices in these environmentally sensitive areas.
Source: AIR
Kadalundi mudflat
Tag: GS-3 Environment
In News:
The mudflat ecosystem in Kadalundi is diminishing swiftly, primarily attributed to both natural forces and human activities.
About Kadalundi mudflat
- In the early 2000s, Kadalundi boasted approximately 8 hectares of nutrient-rich mudflats, a size that has drastically contracted to just about 1 hectare in recent times.
- These mudflats play a crucial role in the ecosystem by offering essential prey, including polychaetes and crustaceans.
- Consequently, they serve as a magnet for a diverse array of migratory birds originating from distant places such as Siberia, Ladakh, Mongolia, and Scotland.
- Mudflats, also known as tidal flats, are coastal wetlands formed through the deposition of mud by tides or rivers.
- Typically found in sheltered areas like bays, bayous, lagoons, and estuaries, these mudflats provide vital habitats for various marine species and serve as critical feeding grounds for numerous migratory bird species during their journeys.
- The significant reduction in the expanse of mudflats in Kadalundi raises concerns about the potential impact on the biodiversity and ecological balance of the region.
Source: TH
Gambusia fish
Tag: GS-3 Environment
In News:
Recently, unforeseen outcomes associated with the introduction of mosquitofish, specifically Gambusia affinis and Gambusia holbrooki are studied by the experts.
About Gambusia fish
- Introduced in the 1960s as a biological control measure to combat mosquito-borne diseases, these fish, namely Gambusia affinis and Gambusia holbrooki, have exceeded their intended habitats, resulting in significant ecological and environmental issues.
- Originating from the U.S., mosquitofish were initially introduced in India to control mosquito larvae.
- However, due to their adaptability and high tolerance for changing environmental conditions, they have proliferated extensively, leading to the displacement and predation of native fauna.
- Despite the withdrawal of the World Health Organization’s recommendation for Gambusia as a mosquito control agent in 1982 and its classification as an invasive alien species by the National Biodiversity Authority of the Government of India in 2018, both governmental and non-governmental organizations persist in releasing these fish for mosquito control.
Source: TH
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
Tag: GS-3 Airways
In News:
Air India has been fined ₹10 lakh by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for not providing hotel accommodations to passengers affected by flight delays.
About DGCA
- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) operates as an attached office under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India.
- As the primary regulatory body in the field of Civil Aviation, the DGCA focuses on safety-related issues.
- Its responsibilities encompass the regulation of air transport services to, from, and within India, along with the enforcement of civil air regulations, air safety standards, and airworthiness standards.
- Additionally, the DGCA plays a crucial role in coordinating its regulatory functions with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 1944.
- The ICAO has set the groundwork for global standards and procedures for peaceful air navigation.
- India, as one of its 193 member states, actively participates in these international aviation efforts.
- The ICAO’s headquarters are situated in Montreal, Canada.
- The DGCA itself is headquartered in New Delhi, with regional offices strategically located across different parts of India.
- The Director General of Civil Aviation serves as the head of the DGCA, overseeing its operations and regulatory activities in the aviation sector.
Source: TH
International Labour Organisation (ILO)
Tag: GS-2 International Bodies and Institutions
In News:
Central trade unions are urging an investigation into the tunnel collapse.
About ILO
- The International Labour Organization (ILO) stands as the sole tripartite agency within the United Nations, a unique position it has held since its establishment in 1919.
- Its distinctive structure brings together representatives from governments, employers, and workers across 187 member States, collectively working to establish labour standards, formulate policies, and create programs that advocate for decent work opportunities for all individuals, regardless of gender.
- Originally founded in 1919 by the Treaty of Versailles as an affiliated agency of the League of Nations, the ILO transitioned to become the first affiliated specialized agency of the United Nations in 1946.
- With its headquarters situated in Geneva, Switzerland, the organization was driven by a founding mission that emphasized the pivotal role of social justice in achieving universal and enduring peace.
- Central to its mission, the ILO actively promotes internationally recognized human and labour rights, garnering acclaim for its efforts with the receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969.
- The award was granted in recognition of its contributions to improving peace among classes, advocating for decent work and justice for workers, and offering technical assistance to developing nations.
Source: TH
Uruguay
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News:
China and Uruguay have recently elevated their bilateral relations.
About Uruguay
- Uruguay, formally known as the Oriental Republic of Uruguay or the Republic East of the Uruguay, stands as a nation situated in South America.
- Bordered by Argentina to its west and southwest, Brazil to its north and northeast, the Río de la Plata to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast, Uruguay occupies a strategic geographical position within the Southern Cone region of South America.
- Encompassing an approximate land area of 181,034 square kilometres, Uruguay is home to a population of around 3.5 million people.
- Notably, nearly 2 million inhabitants reside in the metropolitan area surrounding its capital and largest city, Montevideo.
- Beyond its geographical and demographic characteristics, Uruguay has a rich cultural heritage and a history shaped by its commitment to democracy and social progress.
- The country has been a pioneer in various aspects, including being the first in the world to provide every schoolchild with a free laptop and establishing a welfare state in the early 20th century.
Source: Reuters
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