February 4, 2025 1:09 am
Daily Current Affairs for UPSC – 17th November 2024
India Achieves 200 GW Renewable Energy Capacity
Subject and UPSC Paper:
- Subject: Environment and Sustainable Development
- UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment and Energy)
Why in News?
India has achieved a historic milestone by crossing 200 GW of renewable energy capacity, with solar energy contributing nearly 90 GW. This achievement comes as part of India’s commitment to combating climate change and transitioning to sustainable energy.
Source: The Hindu
About Renewable Energy in India
Definition/Description:
Renewable energy refers to energy derived from naturally replenishable resources, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, geothermal heat, and biomass. Unlike fossil fuels, renewables have minimal carbon emissions, making them critical for addressing global climate change and meeting sustainable development goals.
Background:
- Initial Developments: India’s renewable energy efforts began in the 1980s with small-scale wind and solar installations.
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE): Established in 1992 to spearhead renewable energy development.
- National Solar Mission (2010): Part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), it aimed to establish India as a global leader in solar energy.
- Paris Agreement (2015): India committed to achieving 40% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
Key Aspects:
- Solar Energy:
- India ranks among the top countries globally in solar power capacity, with 90 GW installed.
- Initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the PM-KUSUM scheme have boosted solar adoption in agriculture and urban areas.
- Wind Energy:
- India’s wind capacity is the fourth largest globally, with strong contributions from states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
- Offshore wind projects are now being explored.
- Biomass and Small Hydropower:
- Biomass projects use agricultural residues to produce energy, while small hydropower projects focus on local and regional needs.
- Green Hydrogen Production:
- India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to position the country as a global hub for green hydrogen production and export.
Regulatory or Legal Framework:
- Electricity Act, 2003: Establishes Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) for states, mandating them to include a certain percentage of renewable energy in their mix.
- National Solar Mission: Targets scaling up solar energy to 280 GW by 2030.
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: Allocates significant funding to develop hydrogen as a clean energy alternative.
- State-Level Policies: States like Gujarat and Rajasthan have specific renewable energy targets and incentives.
Current Challenges/Issues:
- Intermittency of Renewables:
- Solar and wind energy production depends on weather conditions, leading to fluctuations.
- Grid Infrastructure:
- The national grid lacks adequate infrastructure to integrate renewable energy efficiently.
- Land Acquisition:
- Projects often face delays due to environmental clearances and local opposition.
- Funding and Investment:
- High initial costs for renewable projects deter private investments.
- Policy Implementation:
- Inconsistent policies across states hinder nationwide renewable energy adoption.
Global or Indian Context:
- Global Perspective:
- India is among the top three renewable energy producers globally, alongside China and the United States.
- It has played a significant role in global forums like COP26, advocating for renewable energy adoption.
- Indian Perspective:
- Renewable energy now accounts for 45% of India’s total installed power capacity.
- Initiatives like PM-KUSUM have expanded solar adoption in agriculture, reducing dependence on diesel pumps.
- India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance has enhanced global cooperation in renewable energy.
Future Prospects:
- Target for 2030:
- India aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity, contributing significantly to global carbon reduction goals.
- Battery Storage Systems:
- Development of advanced energy storage technologies to address intermittency.
- Scaling Offshore Wind Projects:
- Exploring the untapped potential of offshore wind along India’s coastline.
- Green Hydrogen Expansion:
- Establishing hydrogen corridors and integrating it into industrial processes and transportation.
- International Partnerships:
- Collaborations with countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States to bring cutting-edge renewable technologies to India.
Source: The Hindu
India Launches ₹200-Crore Green Hydrogen Initiative
Subject and UPSC Paper:
- Subject: Environment and Sustainable Development
- UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment and Technology)
Why in News?
The Indian government has launched a ₹200-crore initiative to boost green hydrogen production through innovative decentralized technologies, focusing on pilot projects such as floating solar-powered hydrogen plants and hydrogen refueling stations.
Source: The Hindu
About Green Hydrogen
Definition/Description:
Green hydrogen is produced using renewable energy sources like wind or solar power to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis. Unlike grey hydrogen, which uses natural gas and emits carbon dioxide, green hydrogen is entirely emission-free.
Background:
- Global Context:
- Green hydrogen emerged as a priority in the 2020s to address energy security and decarbonization goals.
- Major economies like the European Union and Japan have already invested billions in green hydrogen projects.
- Indian Context:
- India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in 2023, aims to make the country a global hub for green hydrogen production.
Key Aspects:
- Production Methods:
- Electrolysis: Splits water using renewable energy, resulting in zero emissions.
- Biomass Gasification: Converts organic matter into hydrogen with minimal carbon footprint.
- Applications:
- Transportation: Fuel cell vehicles powered by hydrogen can replace diesel and petrol engines.
- Industrial Use: Hydrogen is used in steel manufacturing, fertilizers, and refineries.
- Energy Storage: Hydrogen can store renewable energy and supply electricity during demand surges.
- Recent Pilot Projects:
- Floating solar-powered hydrogen generation units.
- Hydrogen refueling stations for transportation hubs.
Regulatory or Legal Framework:
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: Allocates ₹19,700 crore for production and infrastructure development.
- Policy Incentives: Includes production-linked incentives (PLI) for green hydrogen manufacturers.
- International Collaborations: MoUs with countries like Germany for knowledge exchange and investment in hydrogen projects.
Current Challenges/Issues:
- High Costs:
- Electrolysis technology is expensive, making green hydrogen less competitive than grey hydrogen.
- Infrastructure Gaps:
- India lacks hydrogen refueling stations and pipelines for transportation.
- Storage and Safety:
- Hydrogen is highly flammable and requires specialized containment systems.
- Policy Alignment:
- Coordination between state and central governments is necessary for project implementation.
Global or Indian Context:
- Global Perspective:
- Countries like Japan, Germany, and Australia are leaders in green hydrogen technology.
- India’s initiative aligns with global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
- Indian Perspective:
- India plans to produce 5 million metric tons of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
- This initiative is expected to reduce fossil fuel imports and position India as a leader in clean energy.
Future Prospects:
- Cost Reduction:
- Investments in research and scaling up production will lower costs over time.
- Export Opportunities:
- India could become a major exporter of green hydrogen, particularly to Europe and Japan.
- Integration with Renewable Energy:
- Green hydrogen projects could complement solar and wind energy expansion.
- Development of Hydrogen Corridors:
- Dedicated regions for hydrogen production, storage, and utilization.
- Support from Global Forums:
- Partnerships under initiatives like the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Source: The Hindu
Dicliptera polymorpha: A Fire-Resilient Plant Species Discovered in the Western Ghats
Subject and UPSC Paper:
- Subject: Environment and Biodiversity
- UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment and Biodiversity Conservation)
Why in News?
A new plant species, Dicliptera polymorpha, has been discovered in the Western Ghats, showcasing a unique fire-adaptive mechanism with dual-blooming patterns triggered by grassland fires.
Source: The Hindu
About Dicliptera polymorpha
Definition/Description:
Dicliptera polymorpha is a herbaceous plant species belonging to the family Acanthaceae. It is characterized by its ability to adapt and thrive in fire-prone grassland ecosystems, with a flowering cycle that responds to post-fire conditions.
Background:
- Discovery Context: Found during an ecological survey in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the species exhibits traits that allow it to regenerate and bloom after fire disturbances.
- Western Ghats’ Biodiversity: The Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous endemic plant and animal species.
Key Aspects:
- Morphological Features:
- Flowers in two distinct cycles: a regular cycle and a fire-triggered bloom.
- Displays vibrant purple flowers, which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Ecological Role:
- Aids in soil stabilization post-fire by regenerating quickly.
- Supports local pollinator species critical for ecosystem recovery.
- Fire Adaptation:
- Seeds remain dormant in the soil and germinate rapidly after grassland fires, ensuring species survival.
Regulatory or Legal Framework:
- Biodiversity Act, 2002: Provides for the conservation of biological diversity and the sustainable use of its components.
- Protected Area Network: The discovery site is within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, governed by strict conservation protocols under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Current Challenges/Issues:
- Habitat Degradation:
- Encroachment and deforestation threaten the grasslands where Dicliptera polymorpha thrives.
- Climate Change:
- Altered fire regimes due to changing precipitation patterns can disrupt the species’ ecological balance.
- Invasive Species:
- Compete with native flora and reduce available resources for fire-resilient plants.
Global or Indian Context:
- Global Perspective:
- Fire-resilient species are increasingly studied for their role in ecological restoration in fire-prone regions worldwide.
- Indian Perspective:
- Highlights the importance of preserving endemic species in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats.
- Adds to India’s efforts under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to document and conserve native flora.
Future Prospects:
- Ecological Restoration:
- Can be used in restoration projects for degraded grasslands and post-fire landscapes.
- Scientific Research:
- Offers insights into fire ecology and plant adaptation mechanisms.
- Community Awareness:
- Promotes the role of local communities in conserving fire-adapted species.
- Policy Integration:
- Can influence land management practices in fire-prone areas, incorporating native species like Dicliptera polymorpha for sustainable development.
Source: The Hindu
IISc Scientists Develop New Strategy to Combat Antibiotic Resistance
Subject and UPSC Paper:
- Subject: Science and Technology
- UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Science and Technology – Developments and Their Applications)
Why in News?
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed an innovative approach to combat antibiotic resistance by breaking down biofilm barriers that protect disease-causing bacteria. This advancement could enhance the effectiveness of existing antibiotics, addressing a critical global health challenge.
Source: The Hindu
About Antibiotic Resistance and the IISc Innovation
Definition/Description:
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve mechanisms to survive exposure to antibiotics. This phenomenon renders conventional treatments ineffective, leading to persistent infections and increased mortality. A significant contributor to resistance is the formation of biofilms, protective layers of bacteria that shield themselves from antibiotics and the immune system.
The IISc’s innovation focuses on targeting biofilms to restore antibiotic efficacy. This involves enzymatic agents that disrupt biofilm structure, making bacteria vulnerable to treatment.
Background:
- Global Context:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared antibiotic resistance a “global health emergency.” Estimates suggest that by 2050, drug-resistant infections could cause up to 10 million deaths annually.
- Factors driving resistance include the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, poor infection prevention practices, and limited development of new antibiotics.
- India’s Challenge:
- India is one of the largest consumers of antibiotics globally, with a high prevalence of self-medication and lack of stringent prescription policies.
- Multi-drug-resistant pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus), and E. coli are increasingly common in India.
Key Aspects of the IISc Innovation:
- Mechanism of Action:
- Enzyme-based disruptors degrade the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that form biofilm structures.
- This breakdown allows antibiotics to penetrate biofilms and target bacteria directly.
- Advantages Over Conventional Approaches:
- Focuses on enhancing existing antibiotics rather than developing new drugs, reducing costs and time.
- Potentially effective against multiple types of biofilm-forming bacteria, including those in chronic wounds, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and respiratory infections.
- Applications:
- Healthcare Settings: Treating hospital-acquired infections like catheter-associated UTIs and ventilator-associated pneumonia.
- Chronic Diseases: Managing persistent infections in diabetic ulcers and cystic fibrosis patients.
- Veterinary and Agricultural Use: Addressing resistance in livestock and crop-related pathogens.
Regulatory or Legal Framework:
- India’s National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR):
- Launched in 2017, it outlines measures to reduce resistance through surveillance, awareness, and better prescribing practices.
- Promotes research into alternative treatments and technologies.
- Global Initiatives:
- Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS): Tracks resistance trends worldwide.
- One Health Approach: Focuses on the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health to address resistance comprehensively.
Current Challenges/Issues:
- Regulatory Approval and Testing:
- The transition from lab-based studies to human clinical trials is resource-intensive.
- Public Awareness and Misuse of Antibiotics:
- Misuse in self-medication and agriculture exacerbates resistance.
- High Costs of Implementation:
- Scaling up enzyme-based therapies requires investments in biomanufacturing and logistics.
- Global Inequalities:
- Resource-limited settings may struggle to adopt innovative solutions due to financial and infrastructural constraints.
Global or Indian Context:
- Global Perspective:
- The discovery aligns with the global need for new solutions as pharmaceutical companies face economic disincentives to develop novel antibiotics.
- Innovations like the IISc strategy complement WHO-led initiatives to combat the superbug crisis.
- Indian Perspective:
- Antibiotic resistance in India has reached alarming levels, with carbapenem resistance reported in over 50% of cases involving key pathogens.
- The IISc innovation offers a locally developed, scalable solution that could be integrated into India’s public health strategy.
Future Prospects:
- Integration with Existing Antibiotics:
- Widespread use of enzyme-based disruptors alongside existing antibiotics to enhance treatment outcomes.
- Government Policy Support:
- Incentivizing the production and adoption of novel therapies through subsidies and public-private partnerships.
- Global Collaborations:
- Partnerships with international research organizations to scale and replicate the IISc model in other regions.
- Development of Multi-Targeted Approaches:
- Combining biofilm disruptors with next-generation antibiotics and nanotechnology to address resistance holistically.
- Public Health Campaigns:
- Educating healthcare professionals and the public about responsible antibiotic use to prevent further resistance development.
Source: The Hindu
Lead Exposure: A Public Health and Economic Challenge
Subject and UPSC Paper:
- Subject: Health and Environment
- UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Health), GS3 (Environment)
Why in News?
A recent study in The Lancet Planetary Health revealed that lead exposure caused an estimated 5.5 million deaths globally in 2019, primarily from cardiovascular diseases. The findings emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive measures to mitigate lead contamination and its long-term health and economic impacts.
Source: The Hindu
About Lead Exposure
Definition/Description:
Lead is a naturally occurring toxic heavy metal present in the Earth’s crust. It is commonly used in batteries, paints, and industrial applications. Chronic exposure to lead, even in small quantities, poses severe health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women, and contributes significantly to global morbidity and mortality.
Background:
- Global Context:
- Lead poisoning is recognized by the WHO as a major public health concern, with over 1 million deaths annually attributed to lead exposure.
- Lead exposure globally contributes to intellectual disability in children and cardiovascular diseases in adults.
- Indian Context:
- India has one of the highest burdens of lead exposure globally, with over 275 million children showing elevated blood lead levels.
- Informal recycling of lead-acid batteries, widespread use of lead-based paints, and contaminated drinking water are key contributors.
Key Aspects
1. Health Impacts:
- Neurological Disorders: Reduced IQ and behavioral problems in children.
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Increased risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease in adults.
- Kidney and Immune System Damage: Chronic exposure impairs kidney function and weakens immunity.
2. Economic Impacts:
- Reduced productivity due to developmental delays and disabilities.
- Significant healthcare costs arising from long-term illnesses linked to lead poisoning.
3. Major Sources of Lead Contamination in India:
- Industrial Discharges: Unregulated smelting and recycling of lead-acid batteries.
- Household Products: Use of lead-based paints, cosmetics like kohl, and contaminated utensils.
- Water and Soil Contamination: Leaching of lead from old pipelines and industrial waste.
Regulatory or Legal Framework
- The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: Establishes legal authority to regulate emissions, including lead.
- Lead Paint Notification, 2016: Caps lead content in paints at 90 ppm to prevent contamination.
- Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022: Mandates formal recycling of lead-acid batteries to minimize informal sector operations.
Current Challenges
- Weak Enforcement: Inconsistent implementation of regulations, particularly in the informal sector.
- Public Awareness: Limited understanding of lead’s health risks among vulnerable populations.
- Data Gaps: Inadequate systems for tracking and monitoring lead contamination levels.
- Unregulated Informal Sector: Dominance of informal recycling facilities in waste management.
Global and Indian Context
1. Global Perspective:
- Countries like the US, Japan, and EU nations have eliminated lead from gasoline, paints, and consumer products, reducing exposure levels significantly.
- WHO and UNICEF advocate for stricter global policies to address lead poisoning.
2. Indian Perspective:
- India faces unique challenges due to its large informal sector and widespread use of lead in everyday products.
- The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Fluorosis and Lead Poisoning (NPPCFLP) was launched to address this issue but requires scaling up.
Future Prospects
- Strengthening Enforcement:
- Ensuring strict compliance with existing regulations across industries and informal sectors.
- Monitoring Systems:
- Establishing advanced, real-time monitoring systems to track lead contamination levels in high-risk areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns:
- Launching campaigns targeting rural and urban communities about the risks and prevention methods for lead exposure.
- Incentivizing Formal Recycling:
- Supporting formalized recycling units for batteries and other lead-based products through subsidies and public-private partnerships.
- Collaborations:
- Partnering with global organizations like WHO and UNICEF to implement successful models for lead exposure reduction.
Source: The Hindu
India’s Participation in International Military and Space Defense Exercises
Subject and UPSC Paper:
- Subject: International Relations and Defense
- UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (International Relations), GS3 (Defense and Security)
Why in News?
India has actively participated in a series of international military and space defense exercises, including Antariksha Abhyas 2024, aimed at enhancing strategic capabilities and fostering defense cooperation with allied nations.
Source: The Hindu
About India’s Participation in International Defense Exercises
Definition/Description:
International military and space defense exercises are collaborative training programs conducted among nations to enhance military preparedness, foster interoperability, and strengthen bilateral or multilateral relations. India’s participation in such exercises reflects its commitment to maintaining regional and global security.
Background:
- Global Context:
- International exercises allow nations to share expertise, simulate real-world scenarios, and demonstrate their strategic capabilities.
- These initiatives are also platforms for diplomatic engagement.
- Indian Context:
- India has expanded its participation in defense and space exercises, aligning with its Act East Policy and increasing global influence in strategic matters.
- India’s collaborations range from traditional allies like the US and Russia to ASEAN nations and QUAD partners.
Key Aspects
1. Recent Exercises:
- Antariksha Abhyas 2024: Focused on space defense capabilities and counter-satellite operations in collaboration with the US.
- Garud Shakti 24: Joint military training with Indonesia to improve counter-terrorism operations and jungle warfare tactics.
- VAJRA PRAHAR: A Special Forces exercise with the US to enhance tactical coordination and interoperability.
2. Strategic Objectives:
- Strengthening Interoperability: Ensuring smooth operational coordination during joint missions.
- Capacity Building: Sharing technological advancements and expertise, especially in space and cyber defense.
- Diplomatic Engagements: Reinforcing partnerships with allies to address shared security concerns.
3. Focus Areas:
- Counter-terrorism operations.
- Space warfare preparedness and technology sharing.
- Maritime security and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Regulatory or Legal Framework
- Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), 2020: Facilitates acquisition of advanced technologies and systems for defense preparedness.
- Indo-US Defense Framework Agreement: Lays the foundation for joint military collaborations.
- ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus): India participates in defense initiatives under this framework to strengthen ties with ASEAN nations.
Current Challenges
- Geopolitical Tensions: Heightened rivalry with China and tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Resource Constraints: Balancing domestic defense modernization with participation in international exercises.
- Technological Dependence: India’s reliance on foreign technology in critical areas like space defense.
Global and Indian Context
1. Global Perspective:
- These exercises demonstrate India’s strategic autonomy and its growing role as a security provider in the Indo-Pacific.
- Aligns with global efforts to counter emerging threats like cyber-attacks, terrorism, and militarization of space.
2. Indian Perspective:
- Strengthens India’s defense partnerships with ASEAN, QUAD, and NATO nations.
- Demonstrates India’s preparedness to handle regional challenges, particularly from China and Pakistan.
Future Prospects
- Expanding Participation:
- Inclusion of more nations in multilateral exercises to increase global influence.
- Technological Advancements:
- Developing indigenous space defense and cybersecurity technologies to reduce dependence on imports.
- Strategic Partnerships:
- Deepening ties with QUAD nations and ASEAN to counterbalance China’s growing assertiveness.
- Enhanced Maritime Security:
- Leveraging naval exercises to ensure freedom of navigation and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
- Focus on Emerging Domains:
- Strengthening preparedness in space and cyber warfare, which are expected to dominate future conflicts.
Source: The Hindu
