UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024 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 3: (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024)
• Air Pollution
Air Pollution
• China Shock 2.0
China Shock 2.0
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
• CDSCO Drug Alert
CDSCO Drug Alert
• BrahMos Aerospace
BrahMos Aerospace
• Trial of Dominique Pelicot
Trial of Dominique Pelicot
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
• Army Weapons Stock
Army Weapons Stock
• T+0 Settlement
T+0 Settlement
• Production Linked Incentive
Production Linked Incentive
• Global Innovation Index
Global Innovation Index
• Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi
Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi
Mapping:
• Vizhinjam International Seaport
Vizhinjam International Seaport
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024
#### GS Paper 3:
Air Pollution
- •Syllabus: Air Pollution*
- •Source: IE*
Context: Air quality in Delhi slipped into the ‘poor’ category (AQI 200-300) for the first time since mid-June, signalling the imminent arrival of North India’s bad air season.
Air pollution data:
• Global ranking: According to IQAir’s 2023 report, India is ranked as the third most polluted country globally.
• 5 concentration: The average PM2.5 concentration in India stands at 54.4 μg/m³.
• Economic impact: Air pollution results in an estimated economic loss of ₹2.7 lakh crore annually, accounting for 1.36% of the GDP.
Causes of air pollution:
Natural causes:
• Wildfires and dust storms: Natural events like wildfires and dust storms contribute to the spread of particulate matter in the air.
• Volcanic activity: Volcanic eruptions emit gases such as Sulfur dioxide, impacting air quality regionally and globally.
Anthropogenic causes:
• Vehicular emissions: Cars and industrial transportation are key sources of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM).
• Industrial emissions: Factories release pollutants like Sulfur oxides (SOx) and carbon dioxide (CO2), contributing to local and global air pollution.
• Stubble burning: Common in Punjab, Haryana, and UP, this practice exacerbates pollution, especially in Delhi-NCR during winter.
• Waste burning: Open burning of solid waste releases harmful chemicals into the air, further deteriorating air quality.
• Coal-based power plants: These plants contribute to over half of the SO2 emissions and 30% of NOx emissions in India.
Impact of air pollution:
• Health: It causes respiratory issues, heart disease, and premature deaths, with PM2.5 being the most harmful pollutant.
• Environment: Air pollution leads to acid rain, which damages crops and ecosystems, and contributes to climate change.
• Economic Loss: According to the World Bank, air pollution causes a significant reduction in workforce productivity, GDP growth, and healthcare costs.
Measures to control air pollution:
• Technological interventions:
• Air quality monitoring: Enhancing infrastructure for real-time air quality monitoring can help with early warnings and targeted actions.
• Emission norms: Strengthening and expanding Bharat Stage VI norms for vehicles, along with the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs), can help reduce emissions.
• Use of renewable energy: Transitioning from coal-based power plants to solar, wind, and other renewable sources can reduce harmful emissions.
• Policy interventions:
• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Aimed at reducing PM2.5 levels by 20-40% by 2026, NCAP emphasizes coordinated efforts across states and sectors.
• Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Especially for Delhi-NCR, GRAP implements emergency measures during severe pollution episodes.
• Stubble management programs: Encouraging farmers to adopt alternative methods to burning, like using bio-decomposers, can mitigate seasonal pollution spikes.
• Community and behavioral changes:
• Public awareness: Awareness campaigns on the health impacts of air pollution and encouraging citizens to adopt cleaner practices like carpooling and waste segregation.
• Green urban spaces: Expanding green belts in urban areas can help absorb pollutants and improve overall air quality.
Best global practices:
- 1.Singapore’s Green Plan: Aimed at achieving net-zero emissions and reducing air pollution through sustainable urban planning, electric vehicle incentives, and strong public transportation systems.
- 1.London’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ): A system that charges vehicles that do not meet emissions standards, helping to reduce city pollution significantly.
Conclusion:
India’s air pollution crisis requires a sustained, multi-sectoral approach that prioritizes long-term solutions over short-term optics. Drawing inspiration from global best practices, India must focus on integrating scientific methods, technological solutions, and public engagement to tackle air pollution effectively.
Insta Links:
• Air Pollution Danger
• Indoor Pollution
In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements:
• The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 µg/m3 and annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m3. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during the periods of inclement weather. PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.
• The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 µg/m3 and annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m3.
• In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during the periods of inclement weather.
• PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream.
• Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.
Which of the statements given above are correct? (UPSC-2022)
a) 1, 3 and 4
b) 1 and 4 only
c) 2, 3 and 4
d) 1 and 2 only
China Shock 2.0
Syllabus: Economics
Source: Indian Express
Context: The United States has imposed steep tariffs on Chinese imports, including a 100% duty on electric vehicles, as part of an effort to counter the influx of Chinese goods, dubbed “China Shock 2.0.” India and other countries are also taking steps to curb Chinese imports to protect domestic industries.
China Shock 2.0:
• Definition: Refers to China’s rapid export growth in high-tech sectors such as solar equipment, electric vehicles, and semiconductors amid domestic demand slumps.
• Trigger: China’s economic slowdown due to a property crisis and weak consumer demand.
• Global Response: Countries, including India, fear job losses in manufacturing and increased economic dependence on China.
Impact on India:
• Growing Imports: Despite restrictions, India’s imports from China surged from $70 billion in FY19 to $101 billion in FY24, impacting sectors like steel, solar equipment, and electronics.
• Solar Sector Dominance: India remains heavily reliant on China for 80% of its solar cells and modules, impacting its renewable energy goals.
• Steel Industry Pressure: Rising imports of Chinese steel are eroding profits for Indian steelmakers, calling for government intervention.
• Electronics: Though mobile phone manufacturing has increased, India’s dependency on China for electronics remains largely unchanged.
Measures to Counter China Shock 2.0:
• Anti-Dumping Duties: India has launched over 30 anti-dumping investigations against China in 2024 to protect domestic industries.
• Renewable Energy Push: India is investing $4.5 billion in clean energy manufacturing to reduce dependency on Chinese solar imports.
• Strengthening Local Supply Chains: Focus on boosting domestic production in key sectors like steel, electronics, and renewable energy.
Conclusion:
To counter China Shock 2.0 and secure economic independence, India must advance its Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative by building resilient domestic industries and reducing dependency on Chinese imports across critical sectors.
Insta Links:
• Anti Dumping
China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbour. [10 Marks] [2017]
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
CDSCO Drug Alert
Context: Over 50 drugs, including widely used medications like Paracetamol, Pan D, and anti-diabetes pills, were found to be “not of standard quality.”
• Companies involved: The drugs in question were allegedly manufactured by companies such as Alkem Laboratories, Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd, Hetero Labs Ltd, and others.
• Impacted medications: The alert mentions common drugs including calcium, vitamin D3 supplements, and other pharmaceutical products.
Use in UPSC GS3:
• Health and public safety: This example highlights issues of drug quality and its impact on public health, showcasing the need for stringent regulatory oversight.
• Pharmaceutical industry regulation: Can be used to discuss the regulatory mechanisms and challenges in ensuring drug safety and quality in India.
• Challenges in healthcare delivery: Useful in discussions around ensuring access to safe and reliable medicines within the healthcare sector.
BrahMos Aerospace
Context: BrahMos Aerospace, an Indo-Russian joint venture producing supersonic cruise missiles, has announced a reservation of at least 15% of vacancies for former Agniveers in technical, administrative, and security roles.
Key Points:
• BrahMos aerospace initiative: 15% of vacancies in technical and administrative roles and 50% in administrative and security roles reserved for Agniveers.
• Encouraging industry partners: BrahMos is motivating over 200 industry partners to reserve 15% of their workforce for Agniveers.
• Agnipath scheme: Launched in June 2022 to recruit youths into the armed forces for four years, with 25% retained for 15 more years.
Relevance in UPSC Syllabus:
• GS2: Governance – Skill development initiatives, Government Policies – Agnipath scheme, and Public Service – Employment opportunities for ex-servicemen.
• GS3: Defence and Security – Role of defence industries and integration of former soldiers into the workforce, Industrial Policy – Support for domestic defence manufacturing.
Trial of Dominique Pelicot
Context: The trial of Dominique Pelicot, who drugged his wife, Gisele Pelicot, to allow strangers to rape her for nearly a decade, has sparked a significant debate on masculinity in France. Pelicot and 50 co-defendants, including men from ordinary professions like firefighters and journalists, are accused of rape and sexual assault. Gisele has become a feminist icon for refusing to be ashamed and demanding a public trial to raise awareness about drug-facilitated sexual abuse. The trial has ignited discussions about male violence, with many men publicly denouncing the patriarchal system and calling for an end to “rape culture” and masculine domination. A petition signed by 170 men emphasized the need to stop objectifying women and perpetuating harmful masculine behaviors.
Use in Essay:
This anecdote can be used in essays on topics like gender violence, toxic masculinity, and social justice. It highlights the systemic nature of male violence and the need for societal reform, emphasizing personal responsibility and collective action to dismantle harmful patriarchal norms. It also showcases how courage from victims like Gisele can inspire societal change.
Use in GS-4 (Ethics):
• Violation of human dignity: Drugging and raping Gisele violated her bodily autonomy and inherent dignity.
• Gender-based violence: The case reflects systemic gender-based violence rooted in patriarchy.
• Complicity in crime: Ordinary men’s involvement highlights societal complicity in sexual violence.
• Breach of marital trust: Dominique’s actions represent a severe betrayal of marital trust and protection.
• Patriarchal power dynamics: The case showcases patriarchal domination that perpetuates rape culture.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The Supreme Court criticized the ineffectiveness of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in curbing pollution, citing poor enforcement of its directives. The CAQM defended its efforts, claiming a marked improvement in pollution levels since its inception
Origin: Established under the CAQM Act 2021 for NCR and adjoining areas, replacing the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA).
Aim: Coordinate and oversee efforts to improve air quality, prevent and control air pollution in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states (Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh).
Jurisdiction: Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Powers:
• Restrict activities impacting air quality.
• Conduct research on pollution.
• Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals.
• Enforce compliance and take preventive actions.
Composition:
• Chairperson: Secretary/Chief Secretary rank official.
• Five ex officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and UP.
• Three full-time technical members.
• Members from NGOs and technical bodies like CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog.
Insta links:
Army Weapons Stock
Source: TH
Context: Taking lessons from Ukraine war, it is looking at extending the range of Pinaka rockets; Army wants to diversify its vendor base, especially for 155 mm artillery shells, to build resilient supply chains.
Weapon System | Features | Current Status
Pinaka Rocket System | Indigenous multi-barrel rocket launcher with range extension in progress. | Aiming to double and then quadruple its range; guided ER rockets under trial for 75 km+ range.
Pralay Tactical Ballistic Missiles | Tactical missile with a range of 400 km. | Development trials almost complete.
Nirbhay Sub-Sonic Cruise Missiles | Sub-sonic cruise missile with a 1,000 km range. | Trials ongoing, expected Army trials next year.
High Explosive Pre-Fragmented Rockets | Rockets designed to increase Pinaka’s range by 15%-20%. | Trials complete; contract expected soon.
Area Denial Munition (ADM) System | Anti-tank and anti-personnel munition system under development. | Trials ongoing; DRDO has identified production partners.
Insta links:
• Pralay Missiles
• Javelin Anti Tank Missiles
• Rampage Missiles
T+0 Settlement
Source: Indian Express
Context: Stock exchanges have decided to delay the implementation of T+0 (same-day) settlement cycle for institutional clients, which was set to start on September 30, 2024, on a voluntary basis. T+0 was introduced for retail clients in 25 securities as a beta version in March 2024.
T+0 and T+1 Settlement Cycles:
• T+0 Settlement: Refers to same-day settlement of trades where both funds and securities are exchanged on the same day.
• T+1 Settlement: In this system, trades are settled one business day after the transaction date. It was introduced in 2021 and has already been implemented in phases.
• Key Issue: Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) are resisting T+0 due to the pre-funding requirements, and systems aren’t fully ready for seamless adoption.
Significance on the Economy:
• Faster Settlements: Reduces the risks associated with delayed settlements and facilitates quicker access to funds and securities for investors.
• Efficiency for Retail Investors: T+0 can optimize fund utilization, particularly benefiting retail investors with limited capital.
• Improved Accuracy: T+1 has already led to reduced error rates in settlements, especially for FPIs, improving overall market efficiency.
Insta links:
• T0 Instant Settlement Cycle
Production Linked Incentive
Source: IE
Context: India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme is set to boost the textile sector, with disbursements starting this fiscal year. The initiative aims to address stagnation in India’s textile exports, enhance competitiveness, and promote job creation in the sector.
Summary:
• PLI for textiles: About a dozen companies will receive incentives under the scheme for man-made fibers (MMF) and technical textiles this year.
• Export stagnation: India’s textile exports remain stagnant at $35 billion, while competitors like Vietnam and Bangladesh gain market share through trade agreements.
• Job creation target: The government aims to create 4.5 to 6 crore jobs in the textile sector by 2030, while increasing the sector’s market size to $350 billion.
About the PLI scheme:
• Origin: Launched in 2021 to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce imports, and enhance exports.
• How it works: Provides performance-linked incentives based on incremental sales of domestically manufactured products.
• Sectors covered: Includes 13 sectors such as electronics, textiles, automotive, pharmaceuticals, telecom, and renewable energy. Budget: Rs 1.97 lakh crore ($28 billion).
Insta Links:
• Production linked incentive
Global Innovation Index
Source: Live Mint
Context: India has ascended 42 positions in the Global Innovation Index (GII) since 2015 and now ranks 39th out of 133 economies evaluated.
2024 Report Highlights:
• Published by: World Intellectual Property Organisation.
• India’s rank: 39th out of 133 economies in the GII 2024, improving from 40th in 2023.
• Key indicators: ICT services exports: India ranks 1st globally. Venture capital received: India’s start-up ecosystem secures a strong position. Unicorn companies: India ranks 8th globally.
• ICT services exports: India ranks 1st globally.
• Venture capital received: India’s start-up ecosystem secures a strong position.
• Unicorn companies: India ranks 8th globally.
Positives:
• Start-up growth: India’s dynamic start-up ecosystem continues to fuel innovation.
• ICT services leadership: India leads the world in technology-driven services.
• Venture capital: Strong investments are fostering innovation and growth.
Challenges:
• Low R&D spending: India needs to increase research and development (R&D) investments.
• Manufacturing innovation: The manufacturing sector still faces innovation challenges.
• Infrastructure: Gaps in innovation infrastructure remain a hurdle to growth.
Insta Links:
• GII, 2023
Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi
Source: PIB
Context: Launched on World Tourism Day, September 27th, 2024, the Ministry of Tourism’s ‘Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi’ initiative aims to enhance the tourist experience by training locals to become tourism ambassadors, promoting social inclusion and job creation.
Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi:
• Year of Implementation: 2024
• Ministry: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
• Aim: To empower locals in key tourist destinations as ambassadors, enhancing tourist experiences while promoting employment and community engagement.
• Features: Piloted in 6 destinations, including Orchha, Gandikota, Bodh Gaya, and Jodhpur. Locals trained in hospitality, safety, sustainability, and local storytelling. Focus on women and youth for developing tourism experiences like heritage walks and food tours. Training in digital literacy for promoting tourism products globally. Recognized ambassadors receive badges for identification, ensuring quality experiences for tourists.
• Piloted in 6 destinations, including Orchha, Gandikota, Bodh Gaya, and Jodhpur.
• Locals trained in hospitality, safety, sustainability, and local storytelling.
• Focus on women and youth for developing tourism experiences like heritage walks and food tours.
• Training in digital literacy for promoting tourism products globally.
• Recognized ambassadors receive badges for identification, ensuring quality experiences for tourists.
Insta Links:
• Dark Tourism
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024 Mapping:
Vizhinjam International Seaport
Source: TH
Context: Mediterranean Shipping Company’s Anna, one of the largest container ships in the world, berthed at the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram.
About Vizhinjam International Seaport:
• It is India’s first deep water container transshipment port, currently under trial run from July 2024.
• Located in: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
• Features: The port is designed to be a multi-purpose, all-weather, and green port. It is poised to become India’s first automated port and holds a unique position as the only Indian port directly adjacent to an international shipping lane.
• The port is designed to be a multi-purpose, all-weather, and green port.
• It is poised to become India’s first automated port and holds a unique position as the only Indian port directly adjacent to an international shipping lane.
Insta links:
• Vadhavan Port
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 September 2024
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