UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 1 June 2024

InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.

InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.

Table of Contents:

GS Paper 3:

• Prospects of Tourism in India: Hunar se Rozgar” scheme

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

• Bela Block Printing

• Ahilya Bai Holkar

• Managed care organizations (MCOs)

• SRO-FT framework

• Nifty EV & New Age Automotive Index

• UN Global Supply Chain Forum

• PRAGATI-2024

• Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator)

• Diadromous Fish

• Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz

Mapping

• Zambia

Prospects of Tourism in India: Hunar se Rozgar” scheme

#### GS Paper 3

Syllabus: Economy/ Government Policies and Interventions

Source: The Hindu BL

Context:

The “Hunar se Rozgar” scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Tourism in 2006, aims to provide skill training for employment esp in the Tourism sector. Despite its potential, the scheme faces bureaucratic hurdles and lacks widespread awareness.

More about the scheme:

The Ministry of Tourism launched the ‘Hunar se Rozgar Tak’ (HSRT), targeting school dropouts for employment or self-employment training. With an annual budget of around ₹30 crore, HSRT aims to address skill gaps by offering market-relevant training and fostering entrepreneurship among urban youth.

The scheme was designed as a six to eight-week free training program for individuals aged 18-28, with selected expert institutes. Star hotels are mandated to train a minimum number of participants. Despite efforts to integrate the unorganized sector into mainstream employment through skill development, a significant employment gap persists, especially among youth in northern states, where the scheme primarily attracts participants.

Status of Tourism Sector in India:

• India ranks 39th on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, contributing 7% to GD

• Cumulative FDI: Hotel and Tourism industry received over USD 17 billion FDI (April 2000-December 2023), 2.57% of total FDI.

• Employment: Over 32 million jobs generated, about 7% of total employment in 2021. Expected 53 million jobs by 2029.

• Tourist Arrivals: about 10 lakh foreign tourist arrivals (Jan-Dec 2023) compared to 6 lakhs in the previous years.

• Business Growth: Projected USD 125 billion travel market by FY27; Indian airline market to double by FY27; Indian hotel market to reach USD 52 billion by FY27.

Significance of Tourism Industry in India:

The tourism sector in India is vital for several reasons.

• Firstly, it’s a significant contributor to foreign exchange earnings, with landmarks like the Taj Mahal attracting international visitors.

• Secondly, tourism generates positive spillover effects, stimulating growth in sectors like hospitality and transportation.

• Thirdly, it promotes inclusive growth by creating economic opportunities in remote areas.

• Additionally, tourism fosters intercultural exchanges and serves as a strategic diplomacy tool, enhancing bilateral relations and fostering peace.

India’s Potential in Tourism:

Opportunity | Description

Medical and Wellness Tourism | India’s well-established healthcare system and traditional wellness practices, such as Ayurveda, Yoga, and meditation, present opportunities for medical and wellness tourism. Offering quality healthcare services, rejuvenation retreats, and specialized treatments can attract international tourists seeking affordable healthcare and holistic wellness experiences.

Rural and Tribal Tourism | Rural areas in India possess unique cultural and natural assets that can be showcased through rural tourism initiatives. This may include agri-tourism, handicraft demonstrations, and community-based tourism projects, providing visitors with authentic experiences while boosting local economies.

Adventure Tourism | India’s diverse landscapes offer ample opportunities for adventure tourism, including trekking, mountaineering, wildlife safaris, river rafting, and more. Developing and promoting adventure tourism infrastructure and activities can attract adventure enthusiasts from around the world and contribute to local economic growth.

Eco-Tourism | India’s biodiversity hotspots, national parks, and protected areas offer great potential for eco-tourism.

Film Tourism | India’s vibrant film industry has a significant fan following worldwide. Capitalizing on film tourism by promoting shooting locations, film-related tours, and experiences can attract film enthusiasts and create economic opportunities by showcasing the glamour of Bollywood and regional cinema.

Culinary Tourism | Promoting culinary tourism through food festivals, culinary tours, and cooking classes can showcase the richness of Indian cuisine and provide visitors with immersive culinary experiences, attracting food enthusiasts and promoting cultural exchange.

Challenges in harnessing its full potential

• Inadequate Infrastructure: Many tourist destinations lack essential infrastructure, such as connectivity and basic amenities, hindering accessibility and visitor experience.

• Governance Challenges: Governance issues, including unclear guidelines for tourists and inefficiently managed facilities, deter potential visitors.

• Multiplicity of Taxes: The complex tax structure increases the cost of tourism, making it expensive for tourists.

• Unskilled Human Resources: A shortage of skilled manpower, including multilingual guides, affects the quality of tourist services.

• Quality of Services: Inconsistent quality standards, lack of cleanliness, and inadequate facilities impact the tourist experience negatively.

• Safety and Security: Incidents of harassment and crimes against tourists undermine safety and security, affecting tourism.

• Environmental Sustainability: Waste management challenges in popular tourist destinations threaten ecosystems and infrastructure.

• Regulatory Framework: Complex regulations and bureaucratic hurdles discourage tourism-related investments and growth.

• Marketing and Promotion: Limited exposure and marketing efforts for lesser-known destinations hinder tourism development.

• Seasonal Imbalances: Seasonal variations in tourist arrivals lead to overcrowding in popular areas and underutilization in off-peak periods.

Initiatives Related to Tourism in India:

• Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Develops theme-based tourist circuits across India to enhance cultural, historical, and natural heritage experiences.

• PRASAD Scheme: Focuses on the development and beautification of pilgrimage sites.

• HRIDAY: Aims to preserve and revitalize heritage cities.

• Paryatan Parv: Encourages domestic tourism through nationwide cultural events and activities.

• Dekho Apna Desh Initiative: Promotes domestic tourism by exploring India’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat: Promotes cultural integration through state pairings, fostering unity and diversity.

• National Tourism Policy, 2022: Focuses on green tourism, digital tourism, destination management, skilling, and supporting tourism-related MSMEs.

• Digital Initiatives: e-Visa Facility: Simplifies visa application process. Web-based E-Ticketing: Reduces wait times at tourist attractions. National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry (NIDHI): Provides updated information about accommodation units. Swachh Paryatan Mobile App: Addresses cleanliness issues at tourist spots.

• e-Visa Facility: Simplifies visa application process.

• Web-based E-Ticketing: Reduces wait times at tourist attractions.

• National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry (NIDHI): Provides updated information about accommodation units.

• Swachh Paryatan Mobile App: Addresses cleanliness issues at tourist spots.

Way forward:

• Focusing on Safety and Security: Deploy tourism police and implement strict security protocols. Promote safe travel practices to enhance tourist confidence.

• Improving Connectivity and Infrastructure: Enhance transportation links to remote tourist destinations. Drive improvements through public-private partnerships or government investments.

• Tax Reform:: Advocate for tax reform to simplify the tax structure. Harmonize various taxes to create a uniform taxation system.

• Training Programs: Provide comprehensive training to the unskilled workforce. Focus on customer service, cultural sensitivity, and language skills.

• Enhancing Online Presence: Utilize social media and travel websites to boost visibility. Promote tourist destinations through digital platforms like “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.”

Conclusion:

Collaborative efforts from the government, local communities, and industry players, investments in infrastructure development, training programs to enhance service quality, implementation of sustainable tourism practices and targeted marketing campaigns can help overcome these challenges and harness the full potential of the tourism industry in India.

Insta Links:

• Schemes under the Ministry of Tourism

Mains Links:

Q.1 How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of development initiatives and tourism? (UPSC 2019)

Q.2 The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching the limits of their ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate. (UPSC 2015)

Bela Block Printing

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context:

Bela block printing in Kutch is a lesser-known traditional craft that has seen a significant decline over the years

About the Printing:

Bela block printing is a traditional textile art known for its bold designs, striking colour combinations, and graphic motifs on textured fabrics. Kachchh in Gujarat is a significant producer of this style, with the Khatri community renowned for practising the craft.

Ahilya Bai Holkar

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE

Context:

31st May 2024 marks the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilya Bai Holkar, a visionary Maratha queen and exceptional administrator. Often overlooked in history, she was more than the wife of Khande Rao Holkar—she was a leader who brought 30 years of peace and financial stability to her kingdom.

Her 30-year reign brought peace and stability, marked by significant contributions in various domains:

• Leadership: Defying patriarchal norms, she appointed Tukoji Holkar as army commander and led her kingdom effectively.

• Spiritual and Architectural Contributions: Renovated jyotirlingas across India and secured temple idols.

• Cultural Unity: United subjects against the Mughal rule, fostering a shared cultural identity.

• Economic Development: Promoted Maheshwari sari weaving, empowering women and boosting the economy.

• Environmental Protection: Developed Indore, conserved forests, and enhanced trade.

• Inclusive Governance: Created a model of Ram Rajya with social harmony and inclusivity, uplifting Bhil and Gond castes.

More about Ahilyabai Holkar (1725-1795):

She was a prominent ruler of the Holkar dynasty in the Maratha Empire. Married to Khanderao Holkar at age 8, she became a widow in 1754 when he died in battle. Renowned for her philanthropy, she built forts, roads, temples, ghats, wells, tanks, and rest houses across India. Ahilyabai welcomed notable figures like poet Moropant and scholar Khushali Ram to her court. British historian John Keay called her ‘The Philosopher Queen’ for her insightful political observations.

Managed care organizations (MCOs)

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context:

Managed care organizations (MCOs) could play a role in India’s quest for universal health care, resembling practices in the United States but adapted to local needs

What are MCOs?

Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) are entities that combine insurance and healthcare provision functions under one roof, emphasizing cost containment, prevention, and early management of health issues.

An example of an MCO is a health maintenance organization (HMO), which originated in the United States and focuses on providing comprehensive health care services to its members for a fixed premium. These organizations often have networks of healthcare providers and employ various strategies to control costs while promoting quality care.

MCOs in the U.S. emerged in response to escalating healthcare costs in the 1970s. They blend insurance and healthcare provision, focusing on preventative care and cost control with fixed premiums for enrollees.

Challenges facing MCOs in India include limited targeting of the urban, wealthier population, lack of standard clinical protocols, and high operational costs. However, opportunities lie in the significant outpatient care market and potential government support through initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Mission.

SRO-FT framework

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: BS

Context:

The RBI has introduced a framework for recognizing Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs) in the FinTech sector. After releasing a draft framework in January 2024 and gathering feedback, the final framework has been established.

About SROs:

Term | Definition

Definition of FinTech | Entities providing technological solutions for delivering financial products or ensuring regulatory compliance, often in collaboration with traditional financial institutions.

What are SROs? | Self-Regulatory Organization, is an industry-led entity responsible for establishing and enforcing regulatory standards within its sector.

Need of SROs | The Self-Regulatory Organization Framework for FinTech Firms (SRO-FT) ensures adherence to industry standards and best practices while empowering FinTech firms to operate responsibly, even in the absence of formal regulations. Additionally, it fosters collaboration among stakeholders to identify and address challenges, promoting an environment conducive to innovation.

Key Highlights of SRO-FT

Domiciled/registered in India | Requirement for SRO-FT to be established and registered within India’s jurisdiction.

Not-for-profit entities | Applicants for SRO-FT must be established as organizations operating for purposes other than profit-making.

Shareholding structure | The distribution of ownership in an organization, with specific requirements for diversification to prevent undue influence.

Operational guidelines | Instructions and principles governing the functioning of SRO-FT, including objectives, responsibilities, and oversight mechanisms.

Independence | SRO-FT should be independent of influence and should not set up entities/offices overseas without prior approval of RBI.

Managing ‘User Harm’ | SRO-FT should put in place systems for managing ‘user harm’ instances that come to its notice or are referred to by RBI or any other stakeholder. User harm includes fraud, unfair practices, unauthorized transactions, etc.

Members | SRO-FT could have FinTech companies domiciled outside India as members.

Nifty EV & New Age Automotive Index

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: BS

Context:

NSE Indices Limited, a subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange of India, has launched India’s inaugural Electric Vehicle (EV) Index, named the Nifty EV & New Age Automotive Index.

This index tracks the performance of companies involved in the EV ecosystem and advanced automotive technologies. Its inception aligns with the Indian government’s push for EV manufacturing and investment attraction, supporting the Make in India initiative. The index, established with a base date of April 2, 2018, and a base value of 1000, will undergo semi-annual reconstitution and quarterly rebalancing to ensure accuracy and relevance. It comprises EV manufacturers, automotive technology developers, battery producers, and other relevant entities. Stocks forming a part of the Nifty 500 are eligible to be a part of the index

About NSE:

National Stock Exchange of India Limited (HQ: Mumbai; founded: 1992) is one of the leading stock exchanges in India. NSE is under the ownership of various financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies.

UN Global Supply Chain Forum

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: UNCTAD

Context:

The UN Global Supply Chain Forum emphasizes the need for resilience in supply chains amid disruptions in world trade, calling for efforts to decarbonize global shipping and promote investments in digital solutions.

What is a supply chain?

A supply chain is a network of organizations, resources, activities, and technology involved in the creation and distribution of goods or services from the supplier to the customer. It encompasses the entire process from raw material acquisition to production, distribution, and delivery to the end consumer.

The UN-GSCF, co-hosted by UN Trade and Development and the Government of Barbados, aimed to tackle growing disruptions in global supply chains. Supply chain resilience, vital for minimizing disruption effects on revenue, costs, and customers, was a key focus.

Initiatives like the Global Supply Chain Resilience Initiative and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity, in which India is a signatory, aim to enhance supply chain resilience. India’s domestic efforts include the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy. Initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat and PLI schemes aim to boost manufacturing, complemented by a liberalized FDI policy.

PRAGATI-2024

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB

Context:

The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) launched “PRAGATI-2024” (Pharma Research in AyurGyan And Techno Innovation), fostering collaborative research in Ayurveda

The CCRAS is an autonomous body of the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. It is an apex body in India for the formulation, coordination, development and promotion of research on scientific lines in the Ayurveda and Sowa-Rigpa systems of medicine.

Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator)

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: Th

Context:

Chennai-based start-up Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited achieved a historic milestone by launching the world’s first rocket, Agnibaan SOrTeD, with a fully 3D-printed engine from Sriharikota.

• This launch marks India’s first from a private launchpad and the first semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket launch globally.

More about the News:

The rocket, Agnibaan SOrTeD aims to validate in-house technologies and ensure optimal functioning for Agnikul’s orbital launch vehicle. It features a two-stage design capable of carrying payloads from 30kg to 300 kg to heights of 700 km. Launched from the privately developed ‘Dhanush’ launchpad at Sriharikota, it employs a semi-cryogenic engine using a liquid oxygen and kerosene propellant combination. This initiative aligns with India’s efforts to privatize the space sector, allowing 100% FDI and emphasizing private sector engagement through IN-SPACe.

Diadromous Fish

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: DTE

Context:

A study published in the British Ecological Society’s Journal of Applied Ecology found that 62% of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) for migratory fish species (such as diadromous fish) do not align with their core habitats.

About Diadromous fish:

Diadromous fish are those fishes which migrate between saltwater and freshwater environments (e.g. such as the Bull Shark). They transport energy and nutrients between these ecosystems. This group includes anadromous fish, which live in saltwater but breed in freshwater (e.g., Chinook salmon), and catadromous fish, which live in freshwater but breed in saltwater (e.g., North American eel). They face threats like habitat destruction and migration barriers (e.g., dams).

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

MPAs are designated regions managed for conserving marine resources, ecosystem services, or cultural heritage, with specific restrictions to achieve conservation goals. They can include regulated fishing, research, and other activities. At COP15 in 2022, nations committed to protecting 30% of the planet’s lands and oceans by 2030. However, 70% of MPAs are underfunded, with most located in coastal areas and only 2% protecting the high seas.

MPAs in India:

India has notified 130 Marine Protected Areas (under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972) across the Coastal States and Islands; in addition, 106 coastal and marine sites have been identified and prioritized as Important Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Areas (ICMBAs) to take care of marine species conservation. They are vital for marine habitat conservation and can help protect against global warming impacts.

Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: The “Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz” is a four-month citizen science program organized by the Centre for Citizen Science and Biodiversity Informatics at the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI).

It aims to document frog species in Kerala during the monsoon season, utilizing the iNaturalist app for public participation. The project seeks to raise awareness about frog biodiversity and habitat conservation, with observations contributing to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility database. The initiative follows a successful 2023 edition, emphasizing citizen engagement in biodiversity conservation.

Significance of Frogs:

Frogs play a crucial role in the ecosystem as indicators of environmental health and contributors to biodiversity. They control insect populations, serve as prey for various animals, and contribute to nutrient cycling through their diet and waste. Frog populations face threats from altered rainfall, climate change, habitat loss, pollution, and road accidents. About 41% of frog species worldwide are classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Zambia

#### Mapping

Source: DTE

Context: The inaugural Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (TFCA) Summit is taking place in Zambia.

KAZA TFCA was formally established in 2011 and encompasses the Kavango and Zambezi river basins, where Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe converge. This region includes notable landmarks such as the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, and Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Zambia, a landlocked country in southern Africa, boasts rugged terrain and abundant wildlife, featuring numerous parks and safari areas. Along its border with Zimbabwe, the renowned Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “Smoke That Thunders,” cascades a misty 108 meters into the narrow Batoka Gorge.