UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 22 March 2024

InstaLinks : help you think beyond the issue but relevant to the issue from UPSC prelims and Mains exam point of view. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions ina 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. This helps you study a topic holistically and add new dimensions to every current event to help you think analytically

InstaLinks : help you think beyond the issue but relevant to the issue from UPSC prelims and Mains exam point of view. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions ina 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. This helps you study a topic holistically and add new dimensions to every current event to help you think analytically

Table of Contents:

GS Paper 2:

• India-Bhutan Relations: Cooperation and Challenges

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

• Gibraltar Strait

• Democracy in India

• Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit

• Project Gaia

• Reverse flip

• GRID-INDIA

• Pusa-1121 and 1509 Basmati varieties

• Sound Laser

Mapping

• Small-Scale Liquefied Natural Gas (SSLNG) unit (Vijaipur)

India-Bhutan Relations: Cooperation and Challenges

#### GS Paper 2

Syllabus: India’s Neighbourhood

Source: MEA

Context: India and Bhutan recently strengthened their close ties with a visit from Bhutan’s Prime Minister to India. The discussions led to the signing of several agreements between the two nations.

Key Highlights of the recent India-Bhutan Bilateral Talks:

• Petroleum Agreement: Both nations signed an agreement ensuring a reliable supply of petroleum products from India to Bhutan

• Food Safety Collaboration: Bhutan’s Food and Drug Authority and India’s FSSAI signed an agreement to enhance cooperation in food safety measures, facilitating trade and reducing compliance costs.

• Energy Efficiency and Conservation: An MoU on energy efficiency and conservation reflects a commitment to sustainable development, with India assisting Bhutan in enhancing energy efficiency and promoting the use of energy-efficient appliances.

• Border Dispute Resolution: Ongoing discussions between China and Bhutan to resolve their border dispute were discussed, particularly in the Doklam region, with implications for regional security.

• Bhutan’s Regional Economic Hub in Gelephu: Plans for a regional economic hub in Gelephu aim to foster regional development and connectivity

Various dimensions of cooperation between India and Bhutan with examples:

Dimension | Examples

Strategic | Bhutan serves as a buffer between India and China, protecting the Siliguri Corridor (also known as Chicken’s Neck). The Doklam standoff (2017) has re-established Bhutan’s strategic significance for India. Bhutan does not have any formal diplomatic relations with China.

Historical | The Indo-Bhutan Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1949, is the bedrock of India and Bhutan’s relationship

Economic | India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner (mostly in electricity). Also, increased trade with Bhutan benefits landlocked states like Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. India has decided to support Bhutan’s upcoming 13th Five-Year Plan (for 12 FYP, India had provided 4500Cr)

Assistance | As per India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, the largest share of the aid portfolio was granted to Bhutan in the interim budget 2024-25

For Bhutan’s 12th Five-Year Plan, India’s contribution of Rs 4,500 crore constituted 73% of Bhutan’s total external grant component

Cultural and Educational | Buddhism. India also offers various scholarships for Bhutanese students through Nehru-Wangchuck Scholarships, Ambassador’s Scholarship

Energy | India has constructed three Hydroelectric Projects in Bhutan (and exporting surplus power to India)—Chhukha HEP, Kurichhu HEP, and Tala HEP. India is also building Mangdechhu, Punatsangchhu 1 and 2 Hydroelectric Power Projects in Bhutan. Also, India will expedite the proposed Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link project.

Regional | Both nations cooperate in regional forums such as BIMSTEC and SAARC.

Technological | E.g., the E-Library project and the India-Bhutan satellite, India’s Vaccine Maitri Initiative

Environmental | India is supporting Bhutan in its efforts to become carbon-negative.

Also, India will expedite the proposed Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link project.

Issues between the two countries:

• Border Dispute: Disputes over the exact demarcation of the border between the two countries.

• Hydropower Projects: Concerns in Bhutan over environmental and social impacts from the project. Also, Bhutan has sought greater revenue from these projects

• Trade Imbalance:Bhutan is heavily dependent on India for its imports.

• Cross-Border Movement: Bhutan has restricted the cross-border movement of Indian workers, citing concerns over the impact on Bhutan’s culture and society.

• Political Interference:Bhutan has accused India of interfering in its internal affairs, particularly during the 2013 elections.

Conclusion:

India-Bhutan relations have remained strong and friendly, characterized by a deep sense of trust and understanding. Both countries must enhance connectivity which is a central pillar of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies.

About Bhutan:

It is a landlocked country nestled between India and China and is known for its mountainous landscape dominated by valleys. Thimphu serves as its capital city. After democratic elections in 2008, Bhutan transitioned into a democracy, with the King serving as the Head of State. It’s referred to as the ‘Kingdom of Bhutan’ or Druk Gyal Khap, translating to the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’. The longest river in Bhutan is the Manas River, spanning over 376 km and flowing through the Himalayan foothills between southern Bhutan and India.

Inta Links

• India-Bhutan

Mains Link:

Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management. (UPSC 2016)

Gibraltar Strait

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TOI

Context: A modelling study suggests that a dormant subduction zone beneath the Gibraltar Strait could become active and migrate into the Atlantic Ocean, potentially forming an Atlantic “Ring of Fire” in about 20 million years.

• The subduction zone, known as the Gibraltar arc, has been slowly moving westward for millions of years but has recently stalled.

• Researchers predict that it will resume its advance and break into the Atlantic in a process called “subduction invasion.”

A subduction zone is a place where two tectonic plates collide and one dives beneath the other. Subduction zones can occur when a plate with a thinner oceanic crust descends beneath a plate with a thicker continental crust.

Democracy in India

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PM INDIA

Context: The Indian PM recently addressed the Summit for Democracy, highlighting India’s commitment to democracy and its contributions to global democracy.

What is Democracy?

Democracy is a system of government where power is vested in the hands of the people, allowing them to participate in decision-making through voting and representation.

The debate:

Western narrative claims that democracy was invented in ancient Athens before being rediscovered and spreading around the globe in modern times. India’s historical references to democratic practices challenge this narrative.

India’s Evolution of Democracy:

Era | Key Developments

Vedic Era (6000-1100 BCE) | Mention of representative bodies like Sabha, Samiti, and Sansad in Rigveda and Atharvaveda

Epics | Ramayana and Mahabharata emphasize governance for people’s welfare and ethical governance. Bhagavad Gita offers ancient guidance on duties and morality

Mahajanpada and Gantantra (7th-8th Century BCE) | Mahajanapada governance models reflect people’s collective governance. Texts like Ashtadhyayi highlight democratic institutions

Jainism (7th Century BCE) | Promotes pluralism and tolerance through Anekanatavada. Advocates peaceful co-existence, aligning with democratic principles

Buddhism (Since 500 BCE) | Bauddha Sangha exemplifies early democratic practices. Encourages open discussions and elections for leaders

People’s Leader (Ancient India) | Election of Mahasammatta (Great Elect) for governance. Buddhist principles influence rulers, ensuring democratic values

Kautilya & Arthashastra (350-275 BCE) | Arthashastra emphasizes citizens’ welfare and the ruler’s responsibility. Advocates serving, not ruling

Megasthenes and Diodorus Siculus’ Records (300 BCE) | Greeks note democratic governance in Indian states. Highlights India’s aversion to slavery, an essential aspect of true democracy

Ashoka’s Governance (265-238 BCE) | Emperor Ashoka promotes peace and well-being through democratic governance. Systematic ministerial elections ensure people’s participation

Fa Xian’s Records (5th Century CE) | Observe Indian respect for people, Rule of Law, and public welfare. Highlights democratic principles in Indian governance

Khalimpur Copperplate (9th Century CE) | Gopala’s election by the people showcases principles of justice and order. Reflects democratic transition in governance

Shrenisangha System (876 CE) | Electing administrative officials, including guilds and town leaders. Illustrates democratic administration in India

Uthiramerur Inscriptions (919 CE) | Affirm democratic elections and local self-governance. Highlights early democratic practices in South India

Vijay Nagar Empire’s Governance | ‘Sarv-sammati’ principles promote participatory governance. Emphasizes self-governance at the village level

Padishah Akbar (1556-1605 CE) | Introduces “Sulh-i-Kul” to combat religious discrimination. Showcases inclusive governance and religious harmony

Chhatrapati Shivaji (1630-1680 CE) | Advocates for democratic governance and equal rights. Outlines duties for the Ashtha-Pradhan, ensuring participatory governance

Constitution Of India (1947 Onwards) | Establishes a modern, democratic Republic. Ensures equality and universal suffrage

Elections In Modern India (1952 Onwards) | Experiences numerous national, state, and local self-government elections. Reflects India’s deep-rooted democratic ethos and peaceful transfers of power

About the Summit for Democracy:

The Summit for Democracy, launched by the US in 2021, is a platform for democracies worldwide to share experiences, strengthen democratic institutions, protect human rights, and combat corruption. It aims to promote collaboration among democratic nations and advance initiatives for democratic renewal, including efforts to enhance technology for democracy and defend free and fair elections.

Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: HT

Context: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology notified the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit as the central government’s fact-checking body under the Information Technology Rules.

This move follows a recent Bombay High Court decision and precedes a Supreme Court hearing. The FCU will vet online content related to the central government’s business, aiming to identify false or misleading information. While some view it as a violation of freedom of speech, others argue it complies with the Model Code of Conduct and won’t influence voters.

About PIB (formed 1919; HQ: New Delhi)

It is the nodal agency of the government to disseminate information on government policies, programmes, initiatives, and achievements. It has been notified under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (IT Rules 2021).

Project Gaia

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TechTimes

Context: Central banks, including the European Central Bank and the Bank of Spain, have introduced Project Gaia, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to evaluate climate-related financial risks.

• This innovative program addresses the lack of uniform reporting standards by analysing firm carbon emissions, green bonds, and net-zero commitment disclosures.

• The initiative aims to democratize climate risk research by potentially opening Gaia to the public as an online tool.

Reverse flip

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: The Economic Times

Context: Several startups, including Pine Labs, Zepto, and Meesho, are considering a “reverse flip” strategy to return to India.

• The decision to reverse flip is driven by various factors, including regulatory changes, market opportunities, and the desire to tap into India’s growing digital economy

“Reverse flip” refers to the process where startups that were initially established in countries outside of India, such as the US or Singapore, decide to relocate their headquarters back to India.

This involves moving their corporate base, operations, and possibly legal domicile to India from their current overseas location.

The term is used to describe the reversal of the initial decision to establish the company outside of India and instead bring it back to its home country.

GRID-INDIA

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB

Context: Grid Controller of India Limited (GRID-INDIA) has been recognized as a Miniratna Category-I Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) by the Ministry of Power, Government of India.

• Established in 2009, GRID-INDIA plays a crucial role in overseeing the operation of the Indian Power System, ensuring efficient power transfer within and across regions, and facilitating transnational power exchanges.

PSU Classification:

Category | Description

Maharatna | The highest category of PSU classification, is reserved for the largest and most profitable PSUs. They have substantial operational and financial autonomy.

Navratna | Reserved for select PSUs considered to be top performers in terms of financial performance, operational efficiency, and global competitiveness.

Miniratna Category-I | Includes PSUs that have performed exceptionally well and have significant operational and financial autonomy.

Miniratna Category-II | Comprises PSUs that have shown satisfactory performance but may not have achieved the same level of excellence as Category-I PSUs.

Pusa-1121 and 1509 Basmati varieties

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE

Context: Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) scientists have raised concerns about the unauthorized cultivation of Indian basmati rice varieties in Pakistan.

• Varieties such as Pusa Basmati-1121 (PB-1121), Pusa Basmati-6 (PB-6), and PB-1509, originally developed by IARI, are being grown in Pakistan under different names.

• For instance, PB-1121 is marketed as ‘1121 Kainat’ and PB-1509 as ‘Kissan Basmati’.

Indian basmati exports are expected to reach a record high, with IARI-bred varieties dominating the market.

Basmati rice is a long-grain rice variety known for its distinct aroma, delicate flavour, and fluffy texture when cooked.

It is primarily grown in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Basmati rice has been cultivated for centuries and is highly prized for its quality and culinary properties.

So far 34 varieties of Basmati rice have been notified under the Seeds Act, 1966.

Sound Laser

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: NDTV

Context: Scientists in China have developed a ground-breaking “sound laser” that emits particles of sound instead of light, making it the most powerful of its kind.

• Unlike traditional lasers that emit photons, this laser releases particle-like chunks of sound known as phonons in a narrow beam.

How Does It Work?

• The device utilizes a one-micrometre-long silica bead, suspended by two light beams in a reflective cavity.

• Vibrations in the bead create phonons, which are amplified in the cavity before release.

• This modified architecture significantly enhances the laser’s brightness and operational duration.

• Phonons are less affected by liquids, making them effective for imaging watery tissues and deep monitoring.

Additionally, they have applications in optoelectronics, ultrasound, signal modulation, nanoparticle manipulation, and airport security scans.

These “sound lasers,” also called SASERs (Sound Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation), produce uniform sound waves on a nanoscale and were first developed in 2009.

Small-Scale Liquefied Natural Gas (SSLNG) unit (Vijaipur)

#### Mapping

Source: IE

Context: India recently commissioned its first Small-Scale Liquefied Natural Gas (SSLNG) unit at GAIL’s Vijaipur complex in Madhya Pradesh.

The government aims to increase the share of natural gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 (up from slightly over 6% currently), recognizing its environmental benefits and cost advantages over conventional fuels.

What is SSLNG?

Small-Scale Liquefied Natural Gas, refers to the liquefaction of natural gas on a smaller scale than traditional large-scale operations. SSLNG enables the distribution of natural gas to industrial and commercial consumers in regions where conventional pipeline infrastructure is not available.

SSLNG Vs LNG

Feature | SSLNG (Small Scale LNG) | LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas)

Scale | Smaller liquefaction plants, lower capacity | Larger liquefaction plants have, much higher capacity

Transportation | Cryogenic trucks, small vessels | Large LNG tankers

Target Market | Remote areas without pipeline infrastructure, specific | Large-scale industrial users, power generation

Regasification | May or may not require regasification | Requires regasification for pipeline distribution

Infrastructure | Lower investment needs, faster deployment | Higher investment needs, complex infrastructure