UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 February 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 February 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
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 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 February (2025)
• UGC Equity Guidelines
UGC Equity Guidelines
• India – UK Relations
India – UK Relations
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Make the World Wear Khadi Campaign
Make the World Wear Khadi Campaign
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• One Nation-One Port (ONOP) Initiative
One Nation-One Port (ONOP) Initiative
• Ocelot
Ocelot
• Lunar Trailblazer Satellite
Lunar Trailblazer Satellite
• Man-in-Loop Anti-Ship Missile
Man-in-Loop Anti-Ship Missile
• Hague Service Convention
Hague Service Convention
• Zero Bacteria Technology
Zero Bacteria Technology
• Incineration Process
Incineration Process
Mapping:
• Gulf of Mannar
Gulf of Mannar
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 February 2025
#### GS Paper 2 :
UGC Equity Guidelines
Syllabus: Governance
Source: HT
Context: The University Grants Commission (UGC) released draft regulations for the establishment of Equal Opportunity Centres (EOCs) in higher education institutions (HEIs) to combat discrimination and promote inclusion.
Key Features of UGC’s Draft “Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions” Regulations, 2025:
• Establishment of Equal Opportunity Centres (EOCs): Mandatory for all HEIs to set up EOCs to handle discrimination complaints and promote diversity. EOC will provide academic, financial, and social support to marginalized students.
• Mandatory for all HEIs to set up EOCs to handle discrimination complaints and promote diversity.
• EOC will provide academic, financial, and social support to marginalized students.
• Equity Committee and Equity Squads: A 10-member equity committee will oversee EOC operations and conduct inquiries. Equity squads will monitor discrimination on campus and report violations.
• A 10-member equity committee will oversee EOC operations and conduct inquiries.
• Equity squads will monitor discrimination on campus and report violations.
• Appointment of Equity Ambassadors: Each department, hostel, and facility must appoint an equity ambassador. Ambassadors will promote equity and implement anti-discrimination programs.
• Each department, hostel, and facility must appoint an equity ambassador.
• Ambassadors will promote equity and implement anti-discrimination programs.
• 24/7 Equity Helpline & Online Complaint Portal: HEIs must set up a 24/7 helpline to report discrimination cases confidentially. Complaints can be lodged via an online portal, and serious cases will be referred to the police.
• HEIs must set up a 24/7 helpline to report discrimination cases confidentially.
• Complaints can be lodged via an online portal, and serious cases will be referred to the police.
• Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance: Institutions failing to comply may face debarment from UGC schemes, removal from UGC recognition, and restrictions on degree programs. False complaints will attract monetary penalties decided by the equity committee.
• Institutions failing to comply may face debarment from UGC schemes, removal from UGC recognition, and restrictions on degree programs.
• False complaints will attract monetary penalties decided by the equity committee.
Need for Such a Regulation:
• Rising Caste-Based Discrimination & Suicides in HEIs: Cases like Rohith Vemula (2016) and Payal Tadvi (2019) highlight the urgent need for institutional safeguards.
• Lack of Dedicated Anti-Discrimination Mechanisms: No standardized framework exists to monitor and prevent discrimination in HEIs.
• Ensuring Compliance with Supreme Court Orders: SC has directed UGC to frame strict anti-discrimination regulations to improve campus safety.
• Bridging the Social Inclusion Gap: SC/ST and EWS students face systemic barriers, impacting dropout rates and academic performance.
• Fulfilling India’s Commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education): The regulation aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 & SDG 10) on inclusive and equitable education.
Challenges & Negatives in the Draft Regulations:
• Implementation & Monitoring Issues: No clear funding mechanism for setting up and running EOCs in HEIs.
• Bureaucratic Burden on Institutions: HEIs may face administrative delays in setting up equity committees, squads, and helplines.
• Lack of Student Representation: Limited student involvement in decision-making processes.
• Risk of Misuse & False Complaints: The provision to penalize false complaints may discourage genuine victims from coming forward.
• No Mention of Mental Health Support: The draft does not mandate mental health counseling, despite increasing student suicides due to discrimination.
Way Ahead:
• Financial Support & Grants for EOCs: UGC should allocate special funds to support HEIs in implementing these regulations effectively.
• Regular Monitoring & Accountability: An independent oversight body should be set up to track compliance and performance of EOCs.
• Greater Student Participation: Equity committees should include more student representatives, especially from marginalized groups.
• Incorporating Mental Health Support: Mandatory counseling services should be integrated into HEI frameworks.
• Awareness & Capacity Building: Workshops and sensitization programs should be conducted for faculty and students on discrimination laws.
Conclusion:
The UGC’s draft regulations for Equal Opportunity Centres mark an important step in addressing caste-based discrimination and ensuring inclusivity in HEIs. However, effective implementation, financial backing, and mental health support must be prioritized to create a truly equitable education system in India.
PYQ:
• How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate on your answer. [UPSC-2020]
India – EU Relations
Syllabus: International Relations
Source: IE
Context: A high-level delegation of the European Commission’s College of Commissioners, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, is in New Delhi for a two-day visit to strengthen India-EU relations.
About India-EU Relations:
• Historical Relationship
• Diplomatic ties since 1962 with the European Economic Community (EEC), evolving into the EU-India Strategic Partnership in 2004. The India-EU Joint Political Statement (1993) and Cooperation Agreement (1994) strengthened bilateral engagement. 15 India-EU Summits have been held, with the first in Lisbon (2000) and the most recent in 2021.
• Diplomatic ties since 1962 with the European Economic Community (EEC), evolving into the EU-India Strategic Partnership in 2004.
• The India-EU Joint Political Statement (1993) and Cooperation Agreement (1994) strengthened bilateral engagement.
• 15 India-EU Summits have been held, with the first in Lisbon (2000) and the most recent in 2021.
• Present Status of India-EU Relations:
• The EU is India’s largest trading partner in goods, with bilateral trade at $135 billion (FY 2023-24). EU FDI in India stands at $117.4 billion (16.6% of total FDI) since 2000. Strategic cooperation in trade, technology, climate action, and security has deepened through the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC).
• The EU is India’s largest trading partner in goods, with bilateral trade at $135 billion (FY 2023-24).
• EU FDI in India stands at $117.4 billion (16.6% of total FDI) since 2000.
• Strategic cooperation in trade, technology, climate action, and security has deepened through the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC).
Key Fields of Cooperation:
• Trade & Investments: Negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Geographical Indications Agreement are ongoing. India is concerned about EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) impacting exports.
• Negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Geographical Indications Agreement are ongoing.
• India is concerned about EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) impacting exports.
• Technology & Innovation: Science & Technology Cooperation Agreement (2007) guides bilateral research partnerships. India-EU Semiconductor MoU (2023) strengthens cooperation in chip manufacturing and AI.
• Science & Technology Cooperation Agreement (2007) guides bilateral research partnerships.
• India-EU Semiconductor MoU (2023) strengthens cooperation in chip manufacturing and AI.
• Green Energy & Climate Action: The EU has committed €1 billion for India’s green hydrogen projects. Collaboration on renewables, circular economy, and sustainable urbanization.
• The EU has committed €1 billion for India’s green hydrogen projects.
• Collaboration on renewables, circular economy, and sustainable urbanization.
• Defence & Security: India-EU Security & Defence Consultations (2022) focus on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber threats. First India-EU joint naval exercise (2023) in the Gulf of Guinea.
• India-EU Security & Defence Consultations (2022) focus on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber threats.
• First India-EU joint naval exercise (2023) in the Gulf of Guinea.
• Space Cooperation: India’s ISRO and the European Space Agency (ESA) are collaborating on Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-3, and Aditya-L1 missions. EU’s PROBA-3 mission was launched by ISRO’s PSLV in December 2024.
• India’s ISRO and the European Space Agency (ESA) are collaborating on Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-3, and Aditya-L1 missions.
• EU’s PROBA-3 mission was launched by ISRO’s PSLV in December 2024.
Challenges & Differences:
• Trade Barriers & CBAM: India opposes the EU’s Carbon Border Tax, which could impact steel and aluminum exports. Regulatory differences in data protection and digital trade remain contentious.
• India opposes the EU’s Carbon Border Tax, which could impact steel and aluminum exports.
• Regulatory differences in data protection and digital trade remain contentious.
• Slow Progress on FTA: The India-EU FTA negotiations have been ongoing since 2007, facing hurdles over tariffs and market access.
• Ukraine War & Geopolitical Divergence: India’s neutral stance on Russia-Ukraine conflict contrasts with EU’s strong opposition to Russia.
• Mobility & Visa Policies: Indian professionals received over 20% of EU Blue Cards (2023-24), but strict EU visa policies remain a challenge for Indian workers.
• Human Rights & Democratic Values: EU concerns over India’s internet restrictions, freedom of expression, and human rights create periodic friction in diplomatic engagements.
Way Ahead:
• Fast-track India-EU FTA Negotiations: Prioritize resolving trade barriers and conclude an FTA by 2025.
• Strengthen Technology & Digital Partnerships: Expand collaboration on AI, quantum computing, and cyber security.
• Enhance Security & Defence Ties: Deepen maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific under ESIWA+ security program.
• Resolve Trade & Environmental Disputes: Negotiate a pragmatic approach to EU’s CBAM, balancing trade and climate goals.
• Expand People-to-People Ties: Simplify visa policies and student exchange programs to enhance mobility.
Conclusion:
India-EU relations are at a crucial turning point, with deepening cooperation in trade, technology, and security. Despite challenges in FTA negotiations and CBAM policies, strategic engagement in green energy, digital economy, and defence will strengthen their partnership for global stability and economic growth.
• The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India. What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. (UPSC-2023)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 February 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Make the World Wear Khadi Campaign
Context: The “Make the World Wear Khadi” campaign is part of the inaugural World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai from 1 to 4 May 2025.
About Make the World Wear Khadi Campaign:
• What is it? A global campaign to blend Khadi’s heritage with modern fashion, positioning it as a desirable global brand.
• A global campaign to blend Khadi’s heritage with modern fashion, positioning it as a desirable global brand.
• Launched by: Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) & Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
• Revitalize Khadi’s global appeal through creative marketing. Encourage strategic branding efforts to increase Khadi’s market presence. Promote Indian textile heritage at an international level.
• Revitalize Khadi’s global appeal through creative marketing.
• Encourage strategic branding efforts to increase Khadi’s market presence.
• Promote Indian textile heritage at an international level.
• Key Features:
• Part of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES). Open to advertising professionals and freelancers globally. Includes digital, print, video, and experiential marketing challenges.
• Part of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES).
• Open to advertising professionals and freelancers globally.
• Includes digital, print, video, and experiential marketing challenges.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• GS Paper 1: Indian Heritage & Culture
• Significance of Khadi in India’s history – symbol of self-reliance and freedom movement. Role of Khadi in rural employment and sustainable development.
• Significance of Khadi in India’s history – symbol of self-reliance and freedom movement.
• Role of Khadi in rural employment and sustainable development.
• GS Paper 3: Economy & Infrastructure
• Khadi as an economic driver – boosting MSME and textile exports. Global branding and digital marketing impact on the Indian economy. Employment generation through textile promotion initiatives.
• Khadi as an economic driver – boosting MSME and textile exports.
• Global branding and digital marketing impact on the Indian economy.
• Employment generation through textile promotion initiatives.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 February 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
One Nation-One Port (ONOP) Initiative
Source: LM
Context: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the One Nation-One Port (ONOP) initiative to standardize and streamline port operations across India.
About One Nation-One Port (ONOP) Initiative:
• What is it? A nationwide port standardization initiative designed to unify port documentation, streamline operations, and enhance global trade efficiency in India.
• A nationwide port standardization initiative designed to unify port documentation, streamline operations, and enhance global trade efficiency in India.
• Ministry: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW)
• Remove inconsistencies in port documentation and processes. Enhance ease of doing business by reducing delays and inefficiencies. Improve global trade competitiveness by standardizing logistics. Reduce carbon footprint through efficient port operations.
• Remove inconsistencies in port documentation and processes.
• Enhance ease of doing business by reducing delays and inefficiencies.
• Improve global trade competitiveness by standardizing logistics.
• Reduce carbon footprint through efficient port operations.
• Key Features:
• Standardized Port Documentation: Reduces paperwork, bringing container operation documents down by 33% (143 to 96) and bulk cargo documents by 29% (150 to 106). Sagar Ankalan LPPI Index: Introduced to benchmark port performance and drive operational excellence. Integration with Digital Trade: Supports the MAITRI initiative for AI and blockchain-based trade facilitation. Bharat Ports Global Consortium: Strengthens global supply chains and expands India’s maritime footprint. Aligned with PM Gati Shakti and National Logistics Policy: Supports India’s economic growth strategy through seamless logistics and trade infrastructure.
• Standardized Port Documentation: Reduces paperwork, bringing container operation documents down by 33% (143 to 96) and bulk cargo documents by 29% (150 to 106).
• Sagar Ankalan LPPI Index: Introduced to benchmark port performance and drive operational excellence.
• Integration with Digital Trade: Supports the MAITRI initiative for AI and blockchain-based trade facilitation.
• Bharat Ports Global Consortium: Strengthens global supply chains and expands India’s maritime footprint.
• Aligned with PM Gati Shakti and National Logistics Policy: Supports India’s economic growth strategy through seamless logistics and trade infrastructure.
Ocelot
Source: DD News
Context: Amazon Web Services (AWS) unveiled ‘Ocelot’, a new quantum computing chip, which aims to significantly accelerate the development of commercially viable quantum computers.
About Ocelot:
• What is it? A prototype quantum computing chip designed to improve error correction and accelerate the scalability of quantum computers.
• A prototype quantum computing chip designed to improve error correction and accelerate the scalability of quantum computers.
• Developed by: Amazon Web Services (AWS), the cloud computing division of Amazon.com.
• Key Features:
• Uses “cat” qubits inspired by Schrödinger’s cat experiment to improve error correction. Requires only nine physical qubits to form one logical qubit, reducing hardware requirements. Developed using standard chip industry techniques and a tantalum-based material. Aims to build a practical quantum computer with 100,000 qubits, rather than the industry estimate of 1 million qubits.
• Uses “cat” qubits inspired by Schrödinger’s cat experiment to improve error correction.
• Requires only nine physical qubits to form one logical qubit, reducing hardware requirements.
• Developed using standard chip industry techniques and a tantalum-based material.
• Aims to build a practical quantum computer with 100,000 qubits, rather than the industry estimate of 1 million qubits.
• Significance:
• Reduces the error rate in quantum computations, making machines more reliable. Could accelerate drug discovery, material science innovations, and financial modeling. Uses a scalable approach, which may cut development time by five years. Strengthens Amazon’s position in the competitive quantum computing race.
• Reduces the error rate in quantum computations, making machines more reliable.
• Could accelerate drug discovery, material science innovations, and financial modeling.
• Uses a scalable approach, which may cut development time by five years.
• Strengthens Amazon’s position in the competitive quantum computing race.
• What Are Quantum Chips?
• Quantum chips are processors designed to execute quantum computations by leveraging quantum mechanics principles like superposition and entanglement. Unlike classical chips that use binary bits (0 or 1), quantum chips use qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
• Quantum chips are processors designed to execute quantum computations by leveraging quantum mechanics principles like superposition and entanglement.
• Unlike classical chips that use binary bits (0 or 1), quantum chips use qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
• How Do Quantum Chips Work? Qubits & Superposition:
• Qubits & Superposition:
• Qubits can be both 0 and 1 simultaneously, allowing quantum chips to perform many calculations at once. This enhances computing power for complex simulations and optimizations.
• Qubits can be both 0 and 1 simultaneously, allowing quantum chips to perform many calculations at once. This enhances computing power for complex simulations and optimizations.
• Qubits can be both 0 and 1 simultaneously, allowing quantum chips to perform many calculations at once.
• This enhances computing power for complex simulations and optimizations.
• Quantum Entanglement:
• Qubits can be entangled, meaning their states are interdependent, even if physically separated. This allows for instantaneous data transfer and highly efficient processing.
• Qubits can be entangled, meaning their states are interdependent, even if physically separated. This allows for instantaneous data transfer and highly efficient processing.
• Qubits can be entangled, meaning their states are interdependent, even if physically separated.
• This allows for instantaneous data transfer and highly efficient processing.
• Quantum Gates & Algorithms:
• Similar to logic gates in classical computers, quantum gates manipulate qubits to perform operations. Hadamard, CNOT, and Pauli gates are common quantum gates used in computations.
• Similar to logic gates in classical computers, quantum gates manipulate qubits to perform operations. Hadamard, CNOT, and Pauli gates are common quantum gates used in computations.
• Similar to logic gates in classical computers, quantum gates manipulate qubits to perform operations.
• Hadamard, CNOT, and Pauli gates are common quantum gates used in computations.
• Error Correction & Stability:
• Qubits are prone to decoherence, which causes errors in computations. AWS’s Ocelot chip uses “cat” qubits to improve error correction efficiency.
• Qubits are prone to decoherence, which causes errors in computations. AWS’s Ocelot chip uses “cat” qubits to improve error correction efficiency.
• Qubits are prone to decoherence, which causes errors in computations.
• AWS’s Ocelot chip uses “cat” qubits to improve error correction efficiency.
• Measurement & Output:
• When qubits are measured, they collapse into a definite state (0 or 1). The output is interpreted through classical computing systems for real-world applications.
• When qubits are measured, they collapse into a definite state (0 or 1). The output is interpreted through classical computing systems for real-world applications.
• When qubits are measured, they collapse into a definite state (0 or 1).
• The output is interpreted through classical computing systems for real-world applications.
Lunar Trailblazer Satellite
Source: HT
Context: NASA launched the Lunar Trailblazer satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to map and analyze water distribution on the Moon.
About Lunar Trailblazer:
• What is Lunar Trailblazer?
• A small satellite (orbiter) designed to map water on the Moon’s surface. Part of NASA’s Small, Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration (SIMPLEX) program.
• A small satellite (orbiter) designed to map water on the Moon’s surface.
• Part of NASA’s Small, Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration (SIMPLEX) program.
• Launched by:
• NASA, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin (built the spacecraft). Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center, Florida.
• NASA, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin (built the spacecraft).
• Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center, Florida.
• Identify and map water distribution on the Moon, particularly in permanently shadowed craters at the poles. Understand the lunar water cycle and potential resources for human missions.
• Identify and map water distribution on the Moon, particularly in permanently shadowed craters at the poles.
• Understand the lunar water cycle and potential resources for human missions.
• Key Features:
• Instruments: Lunar Thermal Mapper (LTM) – Measures surface temperature to study water movement. High-resolution Volatiles and Minerals Moon Mapper (HVM3) – Detects light signatures of water molecules. Mission Duration: At least two years of lunar mapping. Fuel-efficient trajectory: Reaching the Moon in four months after launch.
• Instruments: Lunar Thermal Mapper (LTM) – Measures surface temperature to study water movement. High-resolution Volatiles and Minerals Moon Mapper (HVM3) – Detects light signatures of water molecules.
• Lunar Thermal Mapper (LTM) – Measures surface temperature to study water movement.
• High-resolution Volatiles and Minerals Moon Mapper (HVM3) – Detects light signatures of water molecules.
• Mission Duration: At least two years of lunar mapping.
• Fuel-efficient trajectory: Reaching the Moon in four months after launch.
• Significance:
• Supports future lunar missions by identifying water sources for drinking, fuel production, and oxygen supply. Enhances scientific understanding of how water is distributed on airless planetary bodies. Contributes to NASA’s Artemis Program by preparing for long-term human settlement on the Moon. Potential to uncover the origins of water on Earth by studying lunar water sources.
• Supports future lunar missions by identifying water sources for drinking, fuel production, and oxygen supply.
• Enhances scientific understanding of how water is distributed on airless planetary bodies.
• Contributes to NASA’s Artemis Program by preparing for long-term human settlement on the Moon.
• Potential to uncover the origins of water on Earth by studying lunar water sources.
Incineration Process
Source: DC
Context: The first trial of incinerating 10 tonnes of toxic Union Carbide waste began in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh, after the Supreme Court refused to intervene in the disposal process.
About Incineration Process:
• What is Incineration?
• Incineration is a waste treatment process that involves burning solid waste at high temperatures in a controlled environment. It is primarily used for hazardous waste, medical waste, and municipal solid waste, reducing waste volume by up to 95%. Modern incinerators often include waste-to-energy (WTE) systems, generating electricity from heat produced during combustion.
• Incineration is a waste treatment process that involves burning solid waste at high temperatures in a controlled environment.
• It is primarily used for hazardous waste, medical waste, and municipal solid waste, reducing waste volume by up to 95%.
• Modern incinerators often include waste-to-energy (WTE) systems, generating electricity from heat produced during combustion.
• How Incineration Works?
• Waste Collection & Sorting – Large or non-combustible materials are removed. Combustion – Waste is burned at 1,800 to 2,200°F in a controlled chamber. Energy Recovery (Optional) – Heat is captured and converted into electricity. Flue Gas Treatment – Pollutants are filtered out before emission. Ash Disposal – Residual ash containing metals and toxins is managed safely.
• Waste Collection & Sorting – Large or non-combustible materials are removed.
• Combustion – Waste is burned at 1,800 to 2,200°F in a controlled chamber.
• Energy Recovery (Optional) – Heat is captured and converted into electricity.
• Flue Gas Treatment – Pollutants are filtered out before emission.
• Ash Disposal – Residual ash containing metals and toxins is managed safely.
• Types of Incineration
• Mass Burn Incineration: Burns unsorted waste directly. Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Incineration: Converts processed waste into fuel. Fluidized Bed Incineration: Efficiently burns waste with sand or limestone. Gasification & Pyrolysis: Uses low oxygen levels to generate syngas or biochar.
• Mass Burn Incineration: Burns unsorted waste directly.
• Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Incineration: Converts processed waste into fuel.
• Fluidized Bed Incineration: Efficiently burns waste with sand or limestone.
• Gasification & Pyrolysis: Uses low oxygen levels to generate syngas or biochar.
• Benefits of Incineration:
• Volume & Mass Reduction: Reduces waste volume by 95% and mass by 80-85%, minimizing landfill dependency. Energy Recovery: Modern incinerators generate electricity from heat, supporting waste-to-energy projects. Elimination of Pathogens & Toxins: Medical and hazardous waste are destroyed effectively, preventing disease outbreaks. Landfill Diversion: Reduces strain on landfills, which take up significant land and pose environmental risks. Lower Methane Emissions: Unlike landfills, incineration reduces methane emissions, contributing less to climate change.
• Volume & Mass Reduction: Reduces waste volume by 95% and mass by 80-85%, minimizing landfill dependency.
• Energy Recovery: Modern incinerators generate electricity from heat, supporting waste-to-energy projects.
• Elimination of Pathogens & Toxins: Medical and hazardous waste are destroyed effectively, preventing disease outbreaks.
• Landfill Diversion: Reduces strain on landfills, which take up significant land and pose environmental risks.
• Lower Methane Emissions: Unlike landfills, incineration reduces methane emissions, contributing less to climate change.
• Limitations of Incineration:
• Air Pollution: Releases harmful pollutants like dioxins, furans, and heavy metals if not properly filtered. High Costs: Construction and operation costs range from $30–$300 per ton due to pollution control requirements. Toxic Residues: Fly ash and bottom ash contain heavy metals, requiring special disposal. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: While less than landfills, incinerators still emit CO₂ and NOx gases. Reduced Focus on Recycling: Over-reliance on incineration discourages waste reduction and recycling initiatives.
• Air Pollution: Releases harmful pollutants like dioxins, furans, and heavy metals if not properly filtered.
• High Costs: Construction and operation costs range from $30–$300 per ton due to pollution control requirements.
• Toxic Residues: Fly ash and bottom ash contain heavy metals, requiring special disposal.
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: While less than landfills, incinerators still emit CO₂ and NOx gases.
• Reduced Focus on Recycling: Over-reliance on incineration discourages waste reduction and recycling initiatives.
Man-in-Loop Anti-Ship Missile
Source: TOI
Context: DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully tested the indigenous Naval Anti-Ship Missile – Short Range (NASM-SR) with a ‘Man-in-Loop’ capability from a Seaking 42B helicopter at ITR, Chandipur.
About Man-in-Loop Anti-Ship Missile:
• What is a Man-in-Loop Missile?
• A missile that allows real-time human intervention during flight for decision-making. Enables in-flight retargeting based on live seeker images sent to the pilot.
• A missile that allows real-time human intervention during flight for decision-making.
• Enables in-flight retargeting based on live seeker images sent to the pilot.
• Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with the Indian Navy.
• How It Works?
• Bearing-Only Lock-On Mode: The missile is launched with a broad direction of the target. Live Seeker Image Transmission: The high-bandwidth two-way data link sends real-time target images to the pilot. In-Flight Retargeting: The pilot can redirect the missile to a specific target based on new information. Sea-Skimming Mode: The missile flies low over the sea surface to avoid radar detection. Terminal Phase Guidance: Uses an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker (IIR) for precision strikes.
• Bearing-Only Lock-On Mode: The missile is launched with a broad direction of the target.
• Live Seeker Image Transmission: The high-bandwidth two-way data link sends real-time target images to the pilot.
• In-Flight Retargeting: The pilot can redirect the missile to a specific target based on new information.
• Sea-Skimming Mode: The missile flies low over the sea surface to avoid radar detection.
• Terminal Phase Guidance: Uses an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker (IIR) for precision strikes.
• Key Features:
• Indigenous Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS) for accurate mid-course guidance. Electro-Mechanical Actuators & Jet Vane Control for superior maneuverability. Radio Altimeter for low-altitude, terrain-following flight. Pinpoint accuracy with a range of over 50 km.
• Indigenous Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS) for accurate mid-course guidance.
• Electro-Mechanical Actuators & Jet Vane Control for superior maneuverability.
• Radio Altimeter for low-altitude, terrain-following flight.
• Pinpoint accuracy with a range of over 50 km.
Hague Service Convention
Source: TH
Context: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) invoked the Hague Service Convention to serve summons on Gautam Adani and Sagar Adani in a securities fraud case.
About Hague Service Convention:
• What is the Hague Service Convention?
• A multilateral treaty adopted in 1965 at the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH). Establishes a standardized process for serving judicial and extrajudicial documents in civil and commercial matters across international borders. Ensures defendants in foreign jurisdictions receive timely legal notices while facilitating proof of service.
• A multilateral treaty adopted in 1965 at the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH).
• Establishes a standardized process for serving judicial and extrajudicial documents in civil and commercial matters across international borders.
• Ensures defendants in foreign jurisdictions receive timely legal notices while facilitating proof of service.
• Implementing Organisation: Administered by the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH).
• Coverage Under the Convention:
• Applies only to civil and commercial matters (criminal cases are excluded). Applicable when both the requesting and receiving countries are signatories. 84 countries, including India and the U.S., are parties to the Convention.
• Applies only to civil and commercial matters (criminal cases are excluded).
• Applicable when both the requesting and receiving countries are signatories.
• 84 countries, including India and the U.S., are parties to the Convention.
• Key Features of the Convention:
• Central Authority Mechanism: Each country must designate a central authority for processing service requests. Alternative Channels (varies by country): Some nations allow postal service, diplomatic and consular channels, judicial officer communications, and direct service via local authorities. Objections & Refusal: A state can refuse service requests under Article 13 if it compromises sovereignty or security. Proof of Service: Once service is executed, an acknowledgment certificate is issued to the requesting country. Default Judgment Protection: If service is not executed within six months, the requesting country can seek a default judgment under Article 15.
• Central Authority Mechanism: Each country must designate a central authority for processing service requests.
• Alternative Channels (varies by country): Some nations allow postal service, diplomatic and consular channels, judicial officer communications, and direct service via local authorities.
• Objections & Refusal: A state can refuse service requests under Article 13 if it compromises sovereignty or security.
• Proof of Service: Once service is executed, an acknowledgment certificate is issued to the requesting country.
• Default Judgment Protection: If service is not executed within six months, the requesting country can seek a default judgment under Article 15.
• What is Excluded from the Convention?
• Criminal proceedings (only civil and commercial matters are covered). Service via diplomatic or consular channels unless the recipient is a national of the requesting country. Methods outside of central authority processing, such as direct service via email, unless specifically allowed by the receiving state.
• Criminal proceedings (only civil and commercial matters are covered).
• Service via diplomatic or consular channels unless the recipient is a national of the requesting country.
• Methods outside of central authority processing, such as direct service via email, unless specifically allowed by the receiving state.
Zero Bacteria Technology
Source: DH
Context: Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is considering implementing Zero Bacteria technology in apartment Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to improve water quality.
About Zero Bacteria Technology:
• What is Zero Bacteria Technology?
• A water purification technology that eliminates bacterial contamination from water sources. Uses nanoparticle coatings, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, electrostatic filtration, and specialized filtration systems.
• A water purification technology that eliminates bacterial contamination from water sources.
• Uses nanoparticle coatings, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, electrostatic filtration, and specialized filtration systems.
• Developed by: Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru.
• How It Works?
• Nanoparticle Coatings: Silver nanoparticles disrupt bacterial cell membranes, causing cell death. UV Light Irradiation: Destroys bacterial DNA, preventing replication. Electrostatic Filtration: High-voltage filters attract and trap bacteria. Specialized Filtration Systems: Removes bacteria using fine-pore filters, sometimes infused with antimicrobial agents.
• Nanoparticle Coatings: Silver nanoparticles disrupt bacterial cell membranes, causing cell death.
• UV Light Irradiation: Destroys bacterial DNA, preventing replication.
• Electrostatic Filtration: High-voltage filters attract and trap bacteria.
• Specialized Filtration Systems: Removes bacteria using fine-pore filters, sometimes infused with antimicrobial agents.
• Key Features:
• Advanced bacterial elimination for high-quality treated water. Energy-efficient and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment. Reduces environmental contamination and enhances water reuse. Non-toxic and safe when used in controlled applications.
• Advanced bacterial elimination for high-quality treated water.
• Energy-efficient and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment.
• Reduces environmental contamination and enhances water reuse.
• Non-toxic and safe when used in controlled applications.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS –28 February 2025 Mapping:
Gulf of Mannar
Source: TH
Context: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has identified a deep-sea region in the Gulf of Mannar for hydrocarbon exploration under the 10th round of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy.
About Gulf of Mannar:
• Location: Situated between the southeastern coast of India (Tamil Nadu) and the west coast of Sri Lanka.
• Forms part of the Laccadive Sea in the Indian Ocean. Separated from Palk Bay by Adam’s Bridge (Rama Setu).
• Forms part of the Laccadive Sea in the Indian Ocean.
• Separated from Palk Bay by Adam’s Bridge (Rama Setu).
• Geological Features:
• Major Rivers Draining into the Gulf: India: Thamirabarani River, Vaippar River. Sri Lanka: Malvathu Oya (Malvathu River). Unique Geological Structure: Shallow depth (~5.8m average) facilitates coral reef formation.
• Major Rivers Draining into the Gulf: India: Thamirabarani River, Vaippar River. Sri Lanka: Malvathu Oya (Malvathu River).
• India: Thamirabarani River, Vaippar River.
• Sri Lanka: Malvathu Oya (Malvathu River).
• Unique Geological Structure: Shallow depth (~5.8m average) facilitates coral reef formation.
• Shallow depth (~5.8m average) facilitates coral reef formation.
• Minerals Found:
• Limestone and gypsum: Key industrial minerals. Ilmenite, rutile, garnet, and zircon: Found in coastal sand deposits. Natural gas and oil reserves: Potential hydrocarbon deposits identified.
• Limestone and gypsum: Key industrial minerals.
• Ilmenite, rutile, garnet, and zircon: Found in coastal sand deposits.
• Natural gas and oil reserves: Potential hydrocarbon deposits identified.
• Biodiversity: Frequent visitors include dolphins, sharks, dugongs, and sea turtles. Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park (1986): 21 islets between Thoothukudi and Dhanushkodi. Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (1989): Covers 10,500 sq km, including coastal estuaries, coral reefs, salt marshes, and mangrove forests. Holds the distinction of being the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in South and Southeast Asia.
• Frequent visitors include dolphins, sharks, dugongs, and sea turtles.
• Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park (1986): 21 islets between Thoothukudi and Dhanushkodi.
• Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (1989): Covers 10,500 sq km, including coastal estuaries, coral reefs, salt marshes, and mangrove forests. Holds the distinction of being the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in South and Southeast Asia.
• Holds the distinction of being the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in South and Southeast Asia.
Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 28 Feb 2025
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