Wednesday, 6th March 2024

Table of contents

1   Daily Current Affairs

●  

India’s Cooperative Sector

●  

India Sri Lanka Relations

●  

Observing Rare Disease Day 2024

●  

Rajya Sabha Elections

●  

Obelisks

●  

Bharat Tex 2024

●  

ADITI Scheme

●  

Risa Textile

●  

Human Papillomavirus Virus

●  

Cavum Clouds

2   Daily Editorial Analysis

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Inadequacy of Critical Minerals Access Alone

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Daily Current Affairs

India’s Cooperative Sector


In News: The Prime Minister of India recently inaugurated the pilot project for the world's largest Grain Storage Plan. This initiative has been officially launched in 11 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) spanning across 11 states.

Features of the Grain Storage Plan

  • Storage Capacity and Investment
    • Aims to establish 700 lakh tonnes of storage capacity in 5 years.
    • Involves an investment of ₹1.25 lakh crore.
  • Agricultural Infrastructure at PACS Level
    • Creation of decentralised godowns, custom hiring centres, processing units, Fair Price Shops, etc.
    • Integration of various existing Government of India schemes.
  • Expected Outcomes
    • Enable farmers to store produce at PACS godowns.
    • Provide bridge finance for the next crop cycle or selling at MSP to prevent distress sales.
    • Reduction in post-harvest losses, improving farmer earnings, and ensuring food security.

Status of the Cooperative Sector in India

  • Overview of Cooperative Sector
    • One of the world's largest cooperative networks with over 800,000 cooperatives.
    • Spread across sectors like agriculture, credit, dairy, housing, and fisheries
  • Evolution of Cooperative Sector
    • Historical milestones from the First Five-Year Plan to the Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act and the 97th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2011.
    • Establishment of the Union Ministry of Cooperation in 2021.
  • Recent Amendments and Developments
    • Multi-State Co-operative Societies (Amendment) Act, 2022.
    • Introduction of the Co-operative Election Authority and Co-operative Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Development Fund.
  • Examples of Cooperatives in India
    • Primary Agricultural Credit Societies, AMUL, IFFCO, HOPCOMS, and Lijjat Papad.

Major Challenges Faced by Cooperatives in India

  • Governance and Management Issues
    • Limited professionalism leading to inefficiency.
    • Political interference impacting autonomy.
  • Capital and Resource Constraints
    • Inadequate funding for expansion and modernization.
    • Lack of infrastructure hindering growth, especially in rural areas.
  • Social and Cultural Factors
    • Low awareness and participation.
    • Social inequalities affecting equitable representation.

Measures to Enhance the Cooperative Sector

  • Infrastructure Development
    • Greater investment in warehouses, cold storage, and processing units.
    • Promotion of technology adoption for efficiency.
  • Cooperatives as Innovation Hubs
    • Shifting perception towards innovation and technology.
    • Highlighting cooperatives adopting cutting-edge agricultural techniques.
  • Cooperative "Influencers"
    • Identifying and nurturing tech-savvy advocates.
    • Changing the cooperative image through social media.
  • Cooperative Acceleration Zones
    • Designating areas with relaxed regulations for diverse cooperative experimentation.
    • Providing incentives for new business models.
  • Cooperative-led Tourism Initiatives
    • Developing eco-tourism and community-based initiatives.
    • Empowering local communities for sustainable tourism management.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Mains (2014)

Q. Discuss this statement in the background of agricultural finance in India. What constraints and challenges do financial institutions supplying agricultural finance face? How can technology be used to better reach and serve rural clients? 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Daily Current Affairs

India Sri Lanka Relations


In News: The Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority and the Indian company U-Solar Clean Energy Solutions have recently entered into a contract to construct "Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems." 

Hybrid Renewable Energy System Project in Sri Lanka

  • Project Overview
    • Involves constructing hybrid renewable energy systems incorporating solar, wind, battery power, and standby diesel power.
    • Part of India's support for energy projects in Sri Lanka, specifically in the northern and eastern regions.
  • Capacity Details
    • Aims to address energy needs on three islands.
    • Includes 530 kW wind power, 1,700 kW solar power, 2,400 kWh battery power, and 2,500 kW standby diesel power.
  • Geopolitical Context
    • Reflects India's grant assistance in response to concerns about a Chinese-backed project.
    • Illustrates the broader competition for influence between India and China in the Indian Ocean region.
    • The project goes beyond addressing energy needs, contributing to geopolitical considerations.

India-Sri Lanka Relations

  • Historical Ties
    • Deep-rooted cultural, religious, and trade ties.
    • Strong cultural connections, with many Sri Lankans tracing their heritage to India.
  • Financial Assistance and Debt Restructuring
    • India provided USD 4 billion in aid during a critical economic crisis.
    • Active involvement in collaborating with the IMF and creditors for Sri Lanka's debt restructuring.
  • Vision for Connectivity and Economic Collaboration
    • Joint vision emphasizing comprehensive connectivity, renewable energy cooperation, and economic integration.
    • Exploration of an Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement (ETCA).
  • Infrastructure Projects and Energy Cooperation
    • Agreement on a multi-product petroleum pipeline.
    • Adoption of India's UPI for fintech connectivity.
    • India as Sri Lanka’s third-largest export destination with significant economic ties.
  • Military Cooperation and Tourism
    • Joint military and naval exercises.
    • India being the largest source of tourists for Sri Lanka in 2022.

Significance of India and Sri Lanka Relations

  • Focus on Regional Development
    • Integration with the Southern economy crucial for Sri Lanka's growth.
    • India's progress linked with cooperation and development in the region.
  • Geographical Location
    • Strategic importance of Sri Lanka's location in the Indian Ocean.
    • Control point for major shipping lanes, influencing trade and military operations.
  • Ease of Doing Business & Tourism
    • Advancements in digital payment systems for economic integration.
    • Improved connectivity for tourism exchanges between the two nations.

Challenges in India-Sri Lanka Relations

  • Fisheries and Katchatheevu Disputes
    • Longstanding issues related to fishing rights and the Katchatheevu island dispute.
    • Tensions arising from alleged maritime boundary crossings and illegal fishing.
  • Border Security, Smuggling, and Tamil Ethnic Issue
    • Concerns about border security, smuggling, and the welfare of the Tamil minority.
    • Sensitive historical context regarding the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka.
  • China's Influence
    • India's concerns about China's increasing influence in Sri Lanka.
    • Chinese investments in infrastructure projects and strategic locations viewed as challenging India's interests.

Way Forward for the Renewable Energy Project

  • Smooth Progression and Monitoring
    • Ensure the project advances seamlessly from planning to execution.
    • Implement regular monitoring and evaluation processes for progress tracking and issue identification.
  • Community Involvement
    • Engage local communities in project planning and implementation.
    • Conduct consultations, capacity-building programs, and awareness campaigns for community support.
  • Environmental Sustainability
    • Prioritize environmental impact assessments.
    • Adopt measures to minimize negative impacts on local ecosystems and biodiversity.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2009)

Q. Elephant Pass, sometimes seen in the news, is mentioned in the context of the affairs of which one of the following? (2009)

(a) Bangladesh
(b) India
(c) Nepal
(d) Sri Lanka

Ans: (d)

Mains (2013)

Q2. In respect of India-Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy.

Mains (2022)

Q3. ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India's role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Daily Current Affairs

Observing Rare Disease Day 2024


In News: On the final day of February, Rare Disease Day was observed—a global awareness day dedicated to increasing awareness of rare diseases and highlighting their substantial impact on patients and their families.

Rare Disease Day: Advocating for Equity and Awareness

  • Global Movement
    • Rare Disease Day is a globally coordinated initiative promoting equity in social opportunities, healthcare, and access to diagnosis and therapies for individuals with rare diseases.
  • 2024 Theme: "Share Your Colours"
    • Emphasizes collaboration and support within the rare disease community.
    • Established in 2008, observed annually on February 28th (or 29th in leap years).
  • Coordination and Partnerships
    • Coordinated by the European Organisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS) and involves over 65 national patient organization partners.
    • Engages individuals, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, industry representatives, and the general public.

Understanding Rare Diseases

  • Definition Variations
    • Prevalence definitions vary between nations.
    • WHO defines rare diseases as debilitating conditions with a prevalence of 1 or less per 1000 population.
  • Global Burden
    • 300 million people worldwide affected by rare diseases.
    • Approximately 3.5% to 5.9% of the population affected.
    • 72% of rare diseases are genetic, with over 7000 characterized disorders.
    • 75% of rare diseases impact children, with 70% having onset during childhood.
  • Characteristics and Impact
    • Diverse disorders and symptoms vary among diseases and patients.
    • Chronic, progressive, and often life-threatening nature significantly affects patients' quality of life.

Challenges Faced by Rare Disease Patients

  • Delayed Diagnosis and Inequalities
    • Lack of scientific knowledge leads to delayed diagnosis.
    • Inequalities in treatment access result in social and financial burdens.
    • Common symptoms can mask underlying rare diseases, contributing to misdiagnosis.
  • Physician Awareness and Training
    • Lack of awareness and training in interpreting rare disease signs and symptoms.
    • EURORDIS reports an average of 5 years for rare disease patients to receive a diagnosis.

Landscape of Rare Diseases in India

 

  • Prevalence and Impact
    • India represents one-third of global rare disease cases, with over 450 identified diseases.
    • Over 8 to 10 crore Indians estimated to suffer from rare diseases, with over 75% being children.
  • Policy and Implementation Challenges
    • National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD) faced challenges and was withdrawn in 2018.
    • Revised NPRD announced in 2021, yet challenges persist, including a lack of clear disease definitions.
  • Treatment Accessibility and Funding Issues
    • Less than 50% of identified rare diseases in India are treatable.
    • Limited access to approved treatments, with funding challenges and disparities among Centres of Excellence (CoEs).
  • Challenges in Fund Utilization
    • Budget allocations have increased but remain low, with Rs 93 crore allocated for 2023-2024.
    • Disparities in fund utilization highlight inefficiencies in resource allocation.
    • Over 50% of allocated funds remain unutilized, impacting patients in need of urgent treatment.
  • Call for Sustainable Funding
    • Advocacy groups urge sustainable funding from central and state governments.
    • Crucial for patients who have exhausted allocated funds and struggle to continue treatment.

Way Forward for Addressing Rare Diseases

  • Standard Definition Framework
    • Establish a clear and consistent standard definition for rare diseases to guide policy implementation.
  • Increased Budgetary Allocations
    • Allocate higher budgets dedicated to rare diseases to support drug development, therapies, and research initiatives.
  • Expansion of Centres of Excellence (CoEs)
    • Increase the number of CoEs for rare diseases.
    • Enhance coordination among existing CoEs to ensure efficient and collaborative efforts.
  • Satellite Centres for Improved Accessibility
    • Develop satellite centres under CoEs to enhance accessibility and outreach, especially in underserved regions.
  • Responsible Fund Utilization
    • Implement measures to ensure responsible and efficient utilization of funds.
    • Address disparities in fund utilization to maximize impact across various regions.
  • National Registry for Rare Diseases
    • Establish a national registry for rare diseases to report and clarify the list of rare diseases.
    • Develop a centralized laboratory for the detection of rare diseases.
  • Incentives for Domestic Drug Manufacturers
    • Incentivize domestic drug manufacturers under the Production-Linked Incentive Scheme.
    • Encourage the production of affordable drugs for rare diseases.
  • Comprehensive Rare Disease Care (CRDC) Model
    • Implement the Comprehensive Rare Disease Care (CRDC) model.
    • Bridge the gap between patients and families suspected or affected by genetic etiology through a technical and administrative roadmap for hospitals.
  • Affordable Access to Rare Disease Medicines
    • Ensure affordable access to rare disease medicines.
    • Reduce taxes on commercially available drugs, expanding access and affordability for patients.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Mains (2018)

Q. Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Science and Tech.
Daily Current Affairs

Rajya Sabha Elections


In News: Cross-voting by Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from various political parties during the recent Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Karnataka has sparked renewed concerns regarding the integrity of the election process. 

Rajya Sabha Election Process

  • Constitutional Basis
    • Representatives to the Rajya Sabha are elected indirectly by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies, as per Article 80 of the Constitution.
  • Voting Procedure Amendment
    • Amendment to the Representation of the People Act in 2003 introduced open ballot voting in Rajya Sabha elections to curb cross-voting.
  • Indirect Election System
    • Members of state legislative assemblies participate in an indirect election system using the Single Transferable Vote (STV) method.
  • Seat Allocation
    • The Rajya Sabha comprises 250 members, with 12 nominated by the President and the rest distributed among states based on population.
  • Quotas and Preferences
    • Candidates must secure a specific quota of votes, determined by the total valid votes divided by the seats available plus one.
    • MLAs rank their preferences on the ballot paper, with surplus votes and preferences contributing to the election.
  • Anti-Defection Law Exclusion
    • The Tenth Schedule (anti-defection law) does not apply to Rajya Sabha elections, allowing members freedom from party whips.

Cross Voting in Rajya Sabha Elections

  • Definition and Background
    • Cross voting occurs when legislators vote for candidates outside their party during elections.
    • A notable case involved Rajendra Prasad Jain's election in Bihar in 1967 through Congress MLAs' cross-voting.
  • Negative Implications
    • Undermining Representation: Cross-voting may lead to the election of candidates without majority support, undermining representation.
    • Corruption: It often involves bribery, eroding the electoral process's integrity.
    • Party Discipline: Reflects internal party divisions, weakening cohesion and stability.
  • Positive Implications
    • Independence: Indicates legislators' independence, allowing voting based on conscience or constituents' interests.
    • Checks and Balances: Serves as a check on single-party dominance, promoting diversity of viewpoints.
    • Accountability: Signals dissatisfaction, compelling parties to address internal issues and enhance accountability.

SC's Rulings on Tenth Schedule and Rajya Sabha Elections

  • Kuldip Nayar vs. Union of India, 2006
    • SC upheld the open ballot system for transparency.
    • Elected MLAs not disqualified under Tenth Schedule for voting against party candidate.
  • Ravi S. Naik and Sanjay Bandekar vs. Union of India, 1994
    • Voluntarily giving up membership not limited to formal resignation.
    • Conduct inside and outside the house considered for disqualification.

Way Forward for Electoral Integrity

  • Stricter Laws and Penalties
    • Implementing stringent laws against electoral malpractices, with increased penalties.
    • Enhancing transparency in campaign financing and empowering electoral bodies.
  • Internal Party Mechanisms
    • Encouraging political parties to adopt mechanisms promoting discipline and accountability.
    • Strengthening leadership, fostering intra-party democracy, and encouraging ethical conduct.
  • Public Awareness and Engagement
    • Raising awareness among voters and stakeholders about electoral integrity.
    • Conducting public education campaigns, media coverage, and civic engagement initiatives to empower citizens.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2020)

Q. Rajya Sabha has equal powers with Lok Sabha in: 

A. the matter of creating new All India Services
B. amending the Constitution
C. the removal of the government
D. making cut motion

Ans: (B)

Prelims (2016)

Q. Which of the following statements is/are correct? 

  1. A Bill pending in the Lok Sabha lapses on its prorogation.
  2. A Bill pending in the Rajya Sabha, which has not been passed by the Lok Sabha shall not lapse on dissolution of the Lok Sabha.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: (B)

Prelims (2015)

Q. Consider the following statements: 

  1. The Rajya Sabha has no power either to reject or to amend a Money Bill.
  2. The Rajya Sabha cannot vote on the Demands for Grants.
  3. The Rajya Sabha cannot discuss the Annual Financial Statement.

Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (B)

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Daily Current Affairs

Obelisks


In News: Researchers from Stanford University have discovered a novel and surprisingly uncomplicated life form, labeling it "obelisks."

Introduction to Obelisks

  • Obelisks represent a novel category of virus-like entities discovered within the human body and the global microbiome.
  • These entities display distinctive rod-like structures, reminiscent of the iconic monuments known as obelisks.

Structural Characteristics

  • Obelisks exhibit highly symmetrical, rod-like structures.
  • The genetic makeup of obelisks consists of diverse RNA molecules with an average length of approximately 1,000 nucleotides.
  • Notably, these RNA sequences show no detectable similarities to known biological agents.

Genetic Features

  • The genetic sequences of obelisks, each around 1,000 nucleotides long, pose a unique challenge in terms of classification and identification.

Source and Host Information

  • The study analyzed RNA data extracted from gut and oral bacteria.
  • While the research couldn't pinpoint the specific bacteria hosting obelisks, initial findings suggest a potential association with Streptococcus sanguinis, a bacterial species commonly found in the human mouth.

Unanswered Questions and Research Areas

  • The discovery of obelisks prompts various questions related to their genome replication, transmission, pathogenicity, and evolution.
  • Understanding the potential roles of obelisks in human health and disease remains a key area for further investigation.

Need for Further Research

  • The mysteries surrounding Obelisks necessitate more in-depth research efforts.
  • Additional studies are crucial to unravel the ecological significance of obelisks and their potential impact on human health.

Conclusion

  • Obelisks, as a newly identified class of virus-like entities, bring forth intriguing questions that require extensive research to comprehend their nature, functions, and implications for both microbial ecosystems and human well-being.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2017)

Q. Consider the following statements: 

  1. In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue.
  2. Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible.

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

Ans: (c)

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Environment
Daily Current Affairs

Bharat Tex 2024


In News: Bharat Tex 2024, the largest international textile event in India, came to a close at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, aligning with the Prime Minister of India's 5F Vision.

About Bharat Tex 2024

  • The '5F' Formula involves distinct stages: Farm to fiber, fiber to factory, factory to fashion, and fashion to foreign.
  • A consortium of 11 Textile Export Promotion Councils, supported by the Ministry of Textiles, organized the event.
  • Key textile states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka actively participated, showcasing dedicated pavilions.
  • Bharat Tex event served as a platform for launching significant initiatives, including 'Innovative Business Practices and Economic Models in the Textile Value Chain in India' (IndiaTex) and Textile Grand Innovation Challenge.
  • IndiaTex, a four-year project by the UN Environment Programme, aims to accelerate the Indian textile sector's transition towards circularity.
  • The event witnessed the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering areas like academic collaboration, research, product development, and market linkage.

Source: PIB

Keywords: GS-3
Daily Current Affairs

ADITI Scheme


In News: The ADITI scheme was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Defence at DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi.

About ADITI Scheme

  • Scheme Overview
    • Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) focuses on fostering innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies.
  • Aim
    • The primary objective is to develop approximately 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies within the specified timeframe.
  • Eligibility Criteria
    • Start-ups are eligible to receive a grant-in-aid of up to Rs 25 crore for their research, development, and innovation efforts in defence technology.
  • Scheme Duration and Budget
    • ADITI is a Rs 750 crore scheme covering the period from 2023-24 to 2025-26.
  • Framework Placement
    • It operates under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) framework, a part of the Department of Defence Production under the Ministry of Defence.
  • Technology Watch Tool
    • ADITI aims to establish a 'Technology Watch Tool' to bridge the gap between the modern Armed Forces' expectations and requirements and the capabilities of the defence innovation ecosystem.
  • Challenges Launched
    • In the inaugural edition of ADITI, 17 challenges were launched, addressing the needs of the Indian Army (3), Indian Navy (5), Indian Air Force (5), and Defence Space Agency (4).
  • Expansion to iDEX Prime
    • To motivate young innovators, iDEX was expanded to iDEX Prime, witnessing an increase in assistance from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 10 crore.
  • Transformation into a Knowledge Society
    • Initiatives like ADITI, iDEX, and iDEX Prime aim to transform India into a knowledge society by nurturing youth innovation and advancing the country's technological capabilities.

Source: PIB

Keywords: GS-3 Science and Tech., Defence
Daily Current Affairs

Risa Textile


In News: The traditional tribal attire 'risa' from Tripura was recently granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

About Risa Textile

  • Risa Textile is a handwoven fabric utilized as a female upper garment and serves various purposes such as headgear, stole, or as a respectful gift.
  • The cloth features vibrant designs and holds significant social and religious importance.
  • In the cultural tradition, adolescent Tripuri girls receive a risa during an event known as Risa Sormani, typically between the ages of 12 to 14.
  • The religious relevance of risa extends to its use in tribal community festivals like Garia Puja, worn as a turban by men during weddings and festivals, as a cummerbund over dhotis, and as a head scarf for young girls and boys. It also serves as a muffler in winters.
  • Risa serves a practical purpose as well, functioning as an improvised hanger to carry infants on their mothers' backs.
  • The fabric is often presented as a mark of honor to distinguished recipients.
  • Risa is a common element in the traditional attire of almost all 19 indigenous tribal communities of Tripura.
  • The complete Tripuri female attire comprises three parts: Risa (upper garment), Rignai (lower garment), and Rikutu (wrap or head cover for newly married women).
  • This traditional Tripuri attire has a historical origin predating the rule of the Manikya kings, who governed Tripura for over 500 years starting from the 15th century.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-3
Daily Current Affairs

Human Papillomavirus Virus


In News: Every year, the 4th of March is designated as International HPV Awareness Day.

Understanding Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Overview

  • HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, comprises over 200 related viruses, with more than 40 transmitted through direct sexual contact. 
  • Certain HPV types lead to genital warts, while around a dozen can cause specific cancers, with over 95% of cervical cancer cases attributed to HPV.

Transmission

  • HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally.
  • Spread occurs through direct sexual contact and skin-to-skin contact.
  • Most infections are asymptomatic, making detection challenging.
  • Prolonged HPV presence can lead to cancer development.

Prevention through Vaccination

  • The HPV vaccine is a series of shots providing protection against HPV infections.
  • It prevents HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
  • Most effective when administered between ages 9-26.
  • Less effective once an individual is already infected with HPV.
  • Contraindicated during pregnancy.

Significance

  • Over 95% of cervical cancers result from HPV infections.
  • Getting vaccinated is a preventive measure against HPV-related cancers in both men and women.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Science and Tech.
Daily Current Affairs

Cavum Clouds


In News: Recently, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) posted mesmerizing images of Cavum clouds on a social media platform, offering a stunning perspective of these unique cloud formations as observed from space.

Understanding Cavum Clouds

Cavum clouds, also recognized as "hole-punch clouds or fallstreak holes," are distinctive atmospheric phenomena.

Formation Process

  • Altocumulus Cloud Interaction
    • Cavum clouds form when airplanes traverse altocumulus cloud layers.
    • Altocumulus clouds contain supercooled water droplets (liquid water below freezing temperature).
  • Adiabatic Expansion
    • During the aircraft's passage, a phenomenon called adiabatic expansion occurs.
    • Adiabatic expansion leads to the freezing of water droplets into ice crystals.
  • Ice Crystal Weight
    • The ice crystals gain mass and eventually become too heavy for the cloud layer.
    • Consequently, they fall out of the cloud, creating a distinctive hole in the cloud formation.

Prolonged Existence

  • The occurrence of these "mysterious clouds" has been documented for more than 13 years.
  • Formation is often observed when planes traverse at a relatively steep angle.

Source: HT

Keywords: GS-1 Physical Geography
Daily Editorial Analysis

Inadequacy of Critical Minerals Access Alone


In News: A recent article emphasizes that merely possessing access to critical minerals is not enough. The complete cycle, from processing these minerals to manufacturing the final product, also necessitates access to technology. 

Understanding Critical Minerals

  • Definition
    • Critical minerals are indispensable for economic development and national security, with scarcity or concentration leading to supply chain vulnerabilities.
  • Dynamic Declarations
    • Countries formulate unique lists based on evolving factors such as technologies, market dynamics, and geopolitical considerations.
    • Declarations from the US, Japan, the UK, EU, and Canada highlight critical minerals.
  • India's Critical Minerals
    • Identification of 30 critical minerals in India based on disruption potential, substitutability, cross-cutting usage, and recycling rates.
    • States like Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu and Kashmir host these minerals.

Global Dynamics of Critical Minerals

  • Rising Demand
    • Surge in demand from 2017 to 2022 for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
    • Clean energy technologies will escalate mineral demand fourfold by 2040.
  • Policy Responses
    • Countries enact policies to diversify mineral supplies, addressing uncertain global chains.
    • Regulatory measures adopted in the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and resource-rich nations.
  • Geopolitical Concentration
    • Certain countries control significant shares of critical minerals, impacting supply chains.
    • Geopolitical tensions, like the US-China trade war, add complexity.

Significance of Critical Minerals

  • Economic Impact
    • Vital for high-tech industries, defense, and green technologies, contributing to job creation and innovation.
    • Essential for industrial production and supply-chain networks.
  • National Security
    • Crucial for defense, aerospace, nuclear, and space applications, ensuring self-reliance.
  • Sustainability Goals
    • Plays a pivotal role in achieving environmental sustainability.
    • Essential for India's net-zero emissions goal by 2070.
  • Industrial Integration
    • Identified minerals contribute significantly to various strategic value chains.
    • Collaborations, like the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), enhance mineral security.

Concerns and Challenges for India

  • Limited Reserves
    • Heavy dependence on imports, with 100% reliance on lithium and nickel and 93% on copper.
    • Limited domestic reserves pose vulnerabilities to price fluctuations and supply disruptions.
  • Increasing Demand
    • Shift to renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles escalates demand, with higher mineral input requirements.
  • Geopolitical Dynamics
    • China's dominance in rare earths and processing capacities poses challenges.
    • India's MSP membership excludes certain resource-rich nations.
  • Lack of Processing
    • Accessing critical minerals is not enough; processing and manufacturing final products require technology.
    • The gestation period for such processes is a concern for India's decarbonization goals.

Steps for Boosting Critical Minerals Availability

  • Resource Assessment
    • Evaluate domestic reserves and explore sustainable extraction options.
    • Develop strategies for a steady supply, considering global risks.
  • Financial Support
    • Attract public and private investments through financing mechanisms, incentives, and funding models.
    • International collaborations and innovative financing can mobilize necessary capital.
  • Technological Innovation
    • Foster domestic technological capabilities, research and development, and innovation in clean energy technologies.
    • Encourage technology transfer, academia-industry collaborations, and ecosystem development.
  • Establishing Specialized Bodies
    • Consider creating a National Institute or Centre of Excellence for Critical Minerals, similar to Australia's CSIRO.
    • Periodically update critical mineral lists and formulate a strategic approach.

Conclusion

  • Recent government actions reflect a proactive approach to secure a stable supply of critical minerals.
  • Identification of 30 critical minerals and amendments to mining laws demonstrate efforts to address potential shortages.
  • Challenges persist, including global concentration and China's dominance.
  • Overcoming these challenges is crucial for India's decarbonization journey and achieving net-zero goals by 2070.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2012)

Q. Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called ‘rare earth metals’. Why? 

  1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export.
  2. Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country.
  3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only 
(b) 2 and 3 only 
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (c)

Mains (2021)

Q. Despite India being one of the countries of Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss.

Mains (2017)

Q. “In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for development”. Discuss. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS – 1 Mineral & Energy Resources GS -2 Government Policies & Interventions GS - 3
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Quiz

Edukemy’s Current Affairs Quiz is published with multiple choice questions for UPSC exams

MCQ

6th Mar '24 Quiz
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UPSC Daily Current Affairs focuses on learning current events on a daily basis. An aspirant needs to study regular and updated information about current events, news, and relevant topics that are important for UPSC aspirants. It covers national and international affairs, government policies, socio-economic issues, science and technology advancements, and more.

UPSC Daily Current Affairs provides aspirants with a concise and comprehensive overview of the latest happenings and developments across various fields. It helps aspirants stay updated with current affairs and provides them with valuable insights and analysis, which are essential for answering questions in the UPSC examinations. It enhances their knowledge, analytical skills, and ability to connect current affairs with the UPSC syllabus.

UPSC Daily Current Affairs covers a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, science and technology, environment, social issues, governance, international relations, and more. It offers news summaries, in-depth analyses, editorials, opinion pieces, and relevant study materials. It also provides practice questions and quizzes to help aspirants test their understanding of current affairs.

Edukemy's UPSC Daily Current Affairs can be accessed through:

  • UPSC Daily Current Affairs can be accessed through Current Affairs tab at the top of the Main Page of Edukemy. 
  • Edukemy Mobile app: The Daily Current Affairs can also be access through Edukemy Mobile App. 
  • Social media: Follow Edukemy’s official social media accounts or pages that provide UPSC Daily Current Affairs updates, including Facebook, Twitter, or Telegram channels.
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