UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 April 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 3:

• Opportunities and Challenges of Green Hydrogen in India

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

• UNHRC Resolution on Intersex People

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

• Ikshvaku-era

• Total solar eclipse

• Reports in News:

• India has eliminated Kala-azar

• Criollo

• Venomous jellyfish blooms

• Artificial reefs

• ‘Akashteer Command and Control Systems’

Sports:

• Doping in Sports

Opportunities and Challenges of Green Hydrogen in India

#### GS Paper 3

Syllabus: Energy sector

Source: IE

Context: India is making strides in embracing green hydrogen as a promising alternative fuel, evident from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s Rs 496 crore scheme supporting pilot projects.

Definition of Green Hydrogen:

Green hydrogen is produced through a process called electrolysis, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.

In August 2023, the Union Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, provided a definition for green hydrogen, specifying it as having a well-to-gate emission (encompassing water treatment, electrolysis, gas purification, drying and compression of hydrogen) not exceeding 2 kg CO2 equivalent per kg H2. In contrast, grey hydrogen (produced using fossil fuels), on average, emits 10 kg of CO2 per kg of H2 produced.

Nodal Agency: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) (under the Union Ministry of Power) is the nodal authority responsible for accrediting agencies for monitoring, verifying and certifying green hydrogen production projects.

Initiatives for Green Hydrogen:

• Oil India Limited (OIL) recently commissioned India’s first 99% pure green hydrogen plant in eastern Assam’s Jorhat

• NTPC (in Kawas, Surat)has started India’s 1st Green Hydrogen Blendingoperation in the Piped Natural gas (PNG) Network.

• The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB)has given approval for a 5% blending of green hydrogen with PNG (later to be scaled to 20%)

• Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC)has collaborated with business management consultant

• The Green Billions (TGBL) to manage its waste and generate it into useable green hydrogen (under the waste-to-hydrogen project)

• Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP)to mobilise finance and speed up green energy development

• The Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas launched India’s inaugural Green Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus in New Delhi in September 2023.

Significance of Green Hydrogen energy:

• Emission reduction: IEA (International Energy Agency) points out, that the method of obtaining green hydrogen would save the 830 million tonnes of CO2 that are emitted annually when Hydrogen is produced using fossil fuels.

• Viable alternative: With green hydrogen, if the production costs fall by 50 % by 2030, it could certainly evolve as one of the fuels of the future. Also, hydrogen is easy to store, which allows it to be used subsequently for other purposes and at times other than immediately after its production.

• Energy Security and Independence: As fossil fuels are finite and susceptible to global supply fluctuations, green hydrogen fosters energy independence.

• Creating New Industries and Jobs: According to IRENA, the green sector employed 11 million people in 2018, with projections of over 42 million jobs by 2050.

• Decarbonizing Difficult-to-Decarbonize Sectors: Sectors like heavy industry and aviation, hard to decarbonize, can benefit from green hydrogen substitution. This helps mitigate their significant carbon emissions.

Applications of Green Hydrogen:

Applications | Details

Agriculture Sector | Green hydrogen can replace traditional fertilizers in agriculture by producing carbon-free ammonia.

Ammonia production currently relies on fossil fuels, but green ammonia offers improved efficiency and reduced soil acidity.

Green hydrogen-powered farm machinery, such as tractors and harvesters, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture.

Water Management | Green hydrogen can power desalination plants, converting saltwater into freshwater for sustainable water management.

Transport Sector | Hydrogen fuel cells in vehicles produce zero emissions and offer a longer range and faster refuelling compared to battery electric vehicles.

Industrial Sector | Green hydrogen production using excess renewable energy can reduce energy costs and promote sustainable development.

On-site production and storage make green hydrogen a reliable energy source, reducing dependence on the electricity grid.

Green hydrogen production from waste materials like municipal solid waste and agricultural waste can reduce waste and promote sustainability.

Using green hydrogen to power fuel cells increases energy efficiency compared to traditional combustion engines, reducing overall energy consumption.

Challenges in Green Hydrogen Production:

Not Sufficient | Green hydrogen constitutes less than 1 per cent of the world’s hydrogen production and usage (as per the Global Hydrogen Review 2023 by the IEA)

Green hydrogen production needs to grow significantly to align with Net Zero Emissions goals.

Energy Inefficient | 30% of renewable energy is lost while producing hydrogen

Carbon Emissions | Existing methods involve fossil fuels with high carbon emissions.

Low Adoption | Low-emission hydrogen adoption in various sectors is slow.

Economic Sustainability | Low economic sustainability of extracting green hydrogen.

For transportation fuel cells, hydrogen must be cost-competitive with conventional fuels and technologies on a per-mile basis

Access to Critical Minerals | Access to critical minerals such as nickel, platinum group metals and rare earth metals could hinder scaling up electrolyser manufacturing capability in India

Safety Issues | Green hydrogen is highly flammable, requiring specialized handling and storage. Establishing safety protocols and regulations is essential for ensuring its safe management.

Government Initiatives for Bio and Green Hydrogen:

Initiative | Key Points

Global Biofuel Alliance | Leading efforts to establish global standards for hydrogen from biomass.

National Hydrogen Mission | Targeting a production increase to 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2030, meeting 40% of domestic requirements.

Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme | Proposing a Rs 15,000-crore PLI scheme for electrolysers.

Green Hydrogen Mission | Development of Green Hydrogen Production Capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne) per annum; Renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country by 2030

Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT): Funding domestic electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production.

Green Hydrogen Hubs: Identifying and developing states/regions for large-scale hydrogen production/utilization.

Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP): Under this Public-private partnership framework R&D will be facilitated under the mission.

International Collaboration | Actively partnering with other countries, research institutions, and private entities for expertise and technology development.

Renewable Energy Integration | Integrating green hydrogen production with India’s expanding renewable energy capacity for improved efficiency and sustainability.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) (In collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways) in India has launched a new pilot project for the production of Green Hydrogen with the following components:

• Funding Allocation: Rs 496 crore allocated until 2025-26.

• Pilot Project Support: Focus on testing green hydrogen as a vehicle fuel.

• Infrastructure Development: Establishment of hydrogen refuelling stations.

• Project Execution: Selected company or consortium as executing agency.

• Viability Gap Funding (VGF): Approval by MNRE based on project appraisal.

• Timeframe: Completion of pilot projects within two years.

To learn about Bio-hydrogen Click here

Way forward:

• Reduce Production Cost: Develop efficient technologies for electrolysis. Integrate green hydrogen production with renewable energy.

• Implement Regulatory Incentives: Offer tax credits and subsidies to promote adoption.

• Improve Infrastructure: Establish dedicated infrastructure and supply chains. Develop efficient and cost-effective supply chains.

• Coordinate Among Stakeholders: Ensure alignment of policies, standards, and regulations.

• Raise Awareness and Capacity: Educate potential users and producers about benefits. Demonstrate safety and feasibility in various sectors.

• Develop skills and competencies for production and utilization.

Insta Links:

India’s green hydrogen challenge

Mains Links:

What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India? (UPSC 2020)

UNHRC Resolution on Intersex People

#### Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

Source: UNHRC

Context: The United Nations Human Rights Council recently made a historic decision by adopting a resolution aimed at combating discrimination and harmful practices against intersex people.

Who are Intersex people?

Intersex people are individuals born with sex characteristics (such as sexual anatomy, reproductive organs, hormonal patterns, and/or chromosomal patterns) that do not align with typical binary notions of male or female bodies. They may have any gender identity or sexual orientation. Experts estimate that up to 1.7% of the population are born with intersex traits. Intersex individuals are distinct from transgender individuals, as the former’s physical characteristics do not necessarily match their gender identity.

The resolution calls upon member states to address root causes of discrimination, such as stereotypes and misinformation, and to ensure the rights to bodily integrity and autonomy for intersex individuals.

The resolution on intersex rights promotes ethical values such as combating discrimination, ensuring the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, and addressing root causes of human rights violations.

Ikshvaku-era

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE**

Context: Recently around 3,730 lead coins were unearthed in an earthen pot at Phanigiri, a renowned Buddhist heritage site in Telangana.

• The coins, bearing an elephant symbol on the obverse and a Ujjain symbol on the reverse, are believed to belong to the Ikshvaku period.

• Phanigiri is considered an important Buddhist monastery located strategically on the hilltop, along the ancient trade route connecting the west and east coast of the Deccan.

About the Ikshvaku era:

During the third and fourth centuries CE, the Ikshvaku dynasty ruled the eastern Krishna River valley from their capital at Vijayapuri (modern Nagarjunakonda in Andhra Pradesh).

Also known as the Andhra Ikshvakus or the Ikshvakus of Vijayapuri, they were Shaivites following Vedic rituals, but Buddhism flourished during their reign.

They practised both Buddhism and Brahminism, evident in their architectural projects.

The dynasty’s reign marked a period of cultural and religious growth but ended with the rise of Pallava rule.

Total solar eclipse

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE

Context: A total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This type of solar eclipse is a rare event for any particular spot.

• According to Royal Museums Greenwich, once a place on Earth witnesses a total solar eclipse, it will be about 400 years before that part sees the next one.

• A total solar eclipse is a rare event because it occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on the Earth’s surface.

• Total solar eclipses are infrequent because the Moon’s orbit is tilted with respect to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun, causing the Moon’s shadow to usually pass above or below the Earth.

• Additionally, the umbra, or the darkest part of the Moon’s shadow where a total eclipse is visible, covers only a small portion of the Earth’s surface during each event.

Consequently, a specific location on Earth may witness a total solar eclipse only once every 400 years.

Reports in News:

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Study | Details

Lancet Study on Global Life Expectancy | A recent Lancet study spanning from 1990 to 2021 revealed a global increase in life expectancy by 6.2 years, attributed to reduced deaths from enteric infections (food and waterborne illnesses caused by bacteria, parasites, and viruses), lower respiratory infections, ischemic heart disease, and strokes. Enteric diseases, notably typhoid and diarrhoea, led to the highest reduction in deaths. Lower respiratory infections and measles also played significant roles.

However, COVID-19 emerged as the second leading cause of age-standardized deaths in 2021, with varying impacts across regions, emphasizing the need for effective disease mitigation programs.

About The Lancet: It was established in England in 1823, and is a prestigious weekly peer-reviewed medical journal known for its high impact. Owned by Elsevier since 1991, it publishes original research articles, reviews, editorials, and more.

Measuring the Emissions and Energy Footprint of the ICT Sector Report | Jointly released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Bank

Key Highlights: Rapid digitalization expansion increases energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The ICT sector accounts for 1.7% of global emissions. 60% of renewable power purchases in 2021 were from the ICT sector. France is the only country compiling telecommunications sector emissions.

Key Recommendations: Data-driven approach is needed for informed policy decisions and emission reduction targets. Technology transitions in the ICT sector can reduce emissions with careful planning for inclusivity. Regulatory modifications, incentives, and collaboration between ICT and energy sectors can promote sustainable energy access.

About ITU: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) (HQ: Geneva, Switzerland) is the oldest UN agency, founded in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union. It promotes the global use of radio spectrum, assigns satellite orbits, sets technical standards, and improves telecom infrastructure. ITU has 193 member countries (including India) and numerous businesses, academic institutions, and organizations.

“Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2024” was released by UNESCAP | Key findings from the 2024 survey highlight the challenges facing developing countries in balancing debt servicing with investments in critical sectors like education and health. Despite steady economic performance in Asia-Pacific, issues like weaker purchasing power, limited job opportunities, and income inequality persist

Key recommendations Include: 1. Prioritize macroeconomic stability and fiscal discipline to keep government borrowing costs low. 2. Implement policy measures to improve revenue collection and boost domestic savings. 3. Shift international development cooperation towards affordable, long-term financing. 4. Enhance the roles of multilateral development banks and credit rating agencies. 5. Address fiscal implications of global megatrends like demographic shifts and climate change.

About UNESCAP: The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) (est. 1947; HQ: Bangkok) serves as a pivotal forum for governments across the region to convene and deliberate on matters pertaining to economic and social development. Currently, it comprises 53 member countries and 9 associate members, with India being one of its prominent members.

released by UNESCAP

1.Prioritize macroeconomic stability and fiscal discipline to keep government borrowing costs low.

2. Implement policy measures to improve revenue collection and boost domestic savings.

1.Shift international development cooperation towards affordable, long-term financing.

1.Enhance the roles of multilateral development banks and credit rating agencies.

5. Address fiscal implications of global megatrends like demographic shifts and climate change.

India has eliminated Kala-azar

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: BS

Context: India has successfully achieved its target to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis, commonly known as kala-azar, according to data from the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC)

About Kala-azar:

It is a disease caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania (transmitted by sandfly bites). It progresses slowly and primarily affects organs like the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. In India, it’s caused by Leishmania donovani, with the term “kala-azar” meaning “black disease” due to skin discoloration. Post-Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) occurs when the parasite affects skin cells, resulting in dermal lesions.

Despite persistent challenges, India met its elimination goal, initially set for 2010 but extended until 2023. Kala-azar has long been a health concern in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. In 2023, India reported only 520 cases of kala-azar, meeting the elimination criteria defined by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) started in 2003-04 to prevent and control diseases like Japanese Encephalitis (JE), Dengue, Kala-azar, Lymphatic Filariasis, Malaria, and Chikungunya

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: DTE

Context: A recent research on Criollo cattle, a breed developed in the New World from Iberian ancestors suggested that Criollo cattle possess various climate-adaptive traits, making them well-suited to survive and thrive in a warming world.

• These traits include a short, slick-hair coat for improved thermotolerance, as well as genes associated with reproduction, fertility, and disease immunity.

• Criollo cattle’s ability to withstand hot weather leads to improved body weight, more efficient food production, and better animal welfare.

Venomous jellyfish blooms

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: An unusual occurrence of venomous jellyfish blooms, particularly Pelagia noctiluca, was reported along the Visakhapatnam coast in Andhra Pradesh recently.

• Pelagia noctiluca, rarely seen on the East coast of India, is known for causing various illnesses including diarrhoea, vomiting, extreme pain, and anaphylactic shock.

• The blooms are attributed to rising ocean temperatures, posing risks to both fishing industries and tourism.

Pelagia noctiluca, also known as the mauve stinger, is a jellyfish that can glow in the dark.

Its name in German means “night light”, referring to its reddish colouring and bioluminescence. The jellyfish is also known as the “mauve jelly” and the “oceanic jelly”

Artificial reefs

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE

Context: In a pioneering initiative in Maharashtra, Mumbai is preparing for the installation of 210 artificial reefs near Worli Koliwada.

• The artificial reefs, composed of recycled cement and steel, will increase the sea surface area by 50-60 square feet per module.

• They are expected to attract small and large native species, acting as a habitat and breeding ground.

An artificial reef is a human-made structure designed to replicate some characteristics of natural reefs. These structures include submerged shipwrecks, oil and gas platforms, bridges, and other offshore installations.

Materials used in their construction range from rocks and cinder blocks to limestone, steel, and concrete.

Artificial reefs enhance habitat for reef organisms like corals, fishes, and invertebrates.

They attract marine life, making them popular destinations for fishing, diving, and snorkelling, thus offering economic benefits to local communities.

Doping in Sports

#### Sports:

Source: TH

Context: India maintains its unfortunate status as one of the top countries for doping cases, with 3.2% of samples testing positive according to WADA’s 2022 statistics.

India has the highest percentage of positive results for both 2000-plus and 1000-plus samples. Certain sports like wrestling, where India has Olympic success, contribute to this trend, with over 6% positive results from 285 samples.

What is Doping?

Doping refers to the use of prohibited substances or methods to enhance athletic performance.

Reasons for doping include seeking publicity, recovering from injury, technological advancements, and a win-at-all-costs mindset.

Doping undermines fair play, compromises the spirit of sport, and contradicts the pursuit of excellence. It goes against values like perseverance and courage, hampers moral values in sports, and rewards wrongdoers.

To learn about the Anti-Doping Bill: Click Here

National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA):

It was set up as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 on 24th November 2005 with a mandate for Dope-free sports in India. The primary objectives are to implement anti-doping rules as per the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) code, regulate dope control programmes, promote education and research and create awareness about doping and its ill effects.

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA):

It was set up in November 1999 and was set up under the International Olympic Committee. WADA is recognised by the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport (2005). WADA’s primary role is to develop, harmonize, and coordinate anti-doping regulations across all sports and countries. It does so by ensuring proper implementation of the World Anti-Doping Code (WADA Code) and its standards, conducting investigations into doping incidents, conducting research on doping, and educating sportspersons and related personnel on anti-doping regulations.

‘Akashteer Command and Control Systems’

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: ET

Context: The ‘Akashteer Command and Control Systems’ is a new initiative by the Indian Army, developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) as part of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

About the project:

Project Akashteer, developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), is a state-of-the-art initiative enabling the monitoring of low-level airspace in Indian Army battle areas, and automation of India’s air defence system. It effectively controls Ground-Based Air Defence Weapon Systems, empowering integrated operations for Air Defence units.

Significance: It will significantly bolster India’s air defence capabilities by improving efficiency, situational awareness, and automation, thus ensuring a safer and more secure future for the country.

o keep pace with the new era of modernization, the Army has declared the year 2024 as the ‘Year of Technological Absorption’. The Indian Army is accelerating the induction of specific technologies and systems.