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The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) recently completed five years. 

National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Insights from Respirer Living Sciences and Climate Trends

• An analysis of the “Five Years of the National Clean Air Programme” report published by Respirer Living Sciences, a climate-tech startup, and Climate Trends, an environmental consulting group.

Five Years of National Clean Air Programme: A Stark Reality Check and Call for Stringent Actions

• Attainment of 2024 Targets: According to the report, most major cities in the country are way behind the 2024 benchmark, and most cities are unlikely to meet the 40 percent reduction target by 2026.

• • Non-attainment cities as well as the peri-urban areas and villages are now found to be highly polluted.
  • Air Pollution Levels: In most cities, they are higher than the NAAQS of 40 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) and 60 µg/m3 for PM2.5 (ultrafine particles) and PM10, respectively.
• Out of 93 cities with PM10 data for 2023, only seven (less than 10 percent) met the national standard of 60 µg/m3. Meanwhile, 32 cities met the national standard for PM2.5 at 40 µg/m3.
• Reduction in PM10 Levels: Among the 46 cities monitored over the years, the PM10 levels have worsened in 22 cities over the last five years. 
  • Only 8 cities have successfully achieved the initial target of reducing pollution levels by 20 to 30 percent.
• Worst Performer in PM10 Levels: Durgapur in West Bengal has been the poorest performing city.
• • Its PM10 level surged above 53 percent during 2019-24  from 77.2 µg/m3 in 2019 to 118.2 µg/m3 in 2023.
  • It was followed by four Maharashtra cities: Thane, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Aurangabad. 
• Maximum Improvement in PM2.5 Levels:  Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh has shown significant improvement, witnessing a 63 percent reduction in PM10 concentration in 2023 compared to 2019.  
  • Talcher follows it in Odisha.
• Worst PM2.5 Levels: Navi Mumbai in Maharashtra exhibited the most deteriorated air quality for PM2.5, experiencing an increase of about 47 percent, closely followed by Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. 
• Performance of Metropolis: Mumbai was the worst-performing metropolis, with its PM10 level increasing by 37 percent in the last five years.
• Fund Utilisation: The cities could not decrease pollution levels despite the disbursal of Rs 9,650 crore to control air pollution across 131 non-attainment cities. 
  • Out of total funds, only 60 percent (Rs 5,835 crore) have been utilized by the cities.
• Relation Between Fund Utilisation and Pollution Reduction: Numerous cities have worsened or shown only marginal improvement over the last five years, despite receiving substantial financial allocations.
• Despite receiving Rs 939 crore between 2019 and 2023 and utilizing Rs 680 crore, the pollution level of Mumbai continues to rise. 
• In contrast, Delhi and Bengaluru, despite receiving meager funds from the National Clean Air Programme to combat air pollution, managed to make some progress.
• Need for Stringent Actions: More stringent actions to suppress dust emissions are needed, along with steps to minimize biomass burning, solid fuel burning (especially low-grade coal) and solid waste burning, which would reduce particulates, especially the finer particles (PM2.5).

News Source: DTE

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The study, published in the journal Nature, highlights decline in Snow Cover is expected to accelerate with further warming.

Decline in Snow Cover in the Northern Hemisphere: A Climate Study on Warming Trends and Snow Sensitivity

• Decline in Northern Hemisphere Snowpacks: Snowpacks have shrunk in size in the past 40 years due to human-induced climate change.
• Sample Size: The study analyzed 169 river basins and found declining trends of snow in 82 of them.
• Relationship Between Global Temperature Increase and Snow Sensitivity: The relationship between snow and increase in global temperatures was highly non-linear in nature.
  • For Example: It has been found that when winter temperatures exceed -8 degrees Celsius (°C), snow becomes marginally more sensitive to 1°C of warming.
• Warming Trends in the Northern Hemisphere: The warming is much higher in those regions of the northern hemisphere which get significant amounts of snowfall (such as Europe).
• Declining Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) in a Decadal Analysis (1981-2020) due to Decline in Snow Cover

• • In much of western, central and northern Europe, the SWE in March (which is the end of the snowfall season for the northern hemisphere) has decreased by 10-20 per cent per decade between 1981 and 2020.
  • In the Ganga and Indus River basins, the SWE has decreased by 1-3 per cent in the last 40 years.
• Rate of warming in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region: The rate of warming is also much faster in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, which is home to around 54,000 glaciers and needs to be replenished to an extent by snowfall every winter

News Source: Down to Earth

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Recently, an Indian delegation visited Mauna Kea, situated in Hawaii, USA to address the challenges faced by the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project.

Astronomical Exploration and the Thirty Meter Telescope Project Decision

• Mauna Kea is an inactive volcano on the island of Hawaii.

  • Mauna Kea Observatories (MKO) comprises various independent astronomical research facilities and large telescopes.
  • The location fits the project because of its characteristics: dark skies, absence of light pollution, elevated position, and exceptional astronomical seeing.
  • The Indian project partners anticipate a conclusive choice between Mauna Kea in Hawaii and the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory (ORM) in the Canary Islands within the next 2 years.

The Role & Advancements of Thirty Meter Telescope in Astronomical Exploration

• Thirty Meter Telescope is an  extremely large 30-meter optical/infrared telescope.

  • Partners: Besides India, it has partners from the USA, China, Japan, and Canada. 

• • • The Aryabhatta Research Institute for Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore and the Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune are the three main institutes constituting Thirty Meter Telescope-India.
    • Funding: India Thirty Meter Telescope will be jointly funded by the Departments of Science and Technology and Atomic Energy.

Technical Capabilities:

• It can collect over 12 times more light than the Hubble space telescope. 
  • This vastly expands the observational capacity for faint or very distant astronomical objects.

Thirty Meter Telescope’s Pioneering Research Frontiers

• Detecting oxygen in exoplanet atmospheres to find evidence of life
• Studying dark matter and dark energy 
• Observing early galaxy formation after the Big Bang
• Capturing images of black holes.

Challenges Faced by Thirty Meter Telescope: 

• Native communities have opposed the construction for cultural and religious reasons.
• The project’s substantial water requirements for construction and operation raise concerns about their impact on Mauna Kea’s already scarce water resources.
• The Thirty Meter Telescope project has encountered substantial cost overruns, causing concerns about its financial sustainability and ability to adhere to the initially allocated budget.

News source: The Hindu

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Indian Army develops end-to-end encrypted mobile ecosystem SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version).

SAMBHAV: Transforming India’s Defense with Secure Mobile Connectivity

• The SAMBHAV mobile ecosystem aimed at offering secure communication with instant connectivity, even on the move, marking a “significant leap forward” in India’s defense capabilities.
  • This initiative is also consistent with the larger vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. 

• The plan involves configuring 35,000 SAMBHAV sets in two phases

• • First Phase:
    • Objective: Configure 2,500 SAMBHAV sets.
    • Target: Completion by January 15 2024.
  • Second Phase:
    • Task: Complete configuration of remaining SAMBHAV sets.
    • Deadline: May 31, 2024.

• SAMBHAV: India’s Indigenous 5G Secure Mobile Ecosystem for Defense Advancement

  • SAMBHAV is an indigenous, secure, end-to-end mobile ecosystem.
  • It is the Indian Army’s secure 5G-based mobile platform.
  • Developed in collaboration with national centers of excellence from academia and industry.
  • Aligns with India’s efforts towards dual-use infrastructure and civil-military fusion
  • SAMBHAV utilizes commercial cellular networks rather than depending on private networks.

SAMBHAV: Safeguarding India’s Defense with Advanced 5G Secure Mobile Technology

• Addressing Information Security Challenges: 
  • SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) serves as a critical solution to address information security challenges faced by the Indian Army.
• Secure Communication: SAMBHAV employs state-of-the-art 5G technology to facilitate end-to-end secure communication while on the move. 
  • This feature is particularly crucial in tactical scenarios where the threat of eavesdropping and data compromise is prevalent.
• Encrypted Ecosystem: The system ensures high data security by implementing multi-layered encryption throughout the mobile ecosystem. 
  • This encryption strategy significantly enhances the protection of sensitive information and prevents unauthorized access.
• Leverages indigenous public cellular networks: SAMBHAV’s network-agnostic nature allows it to operate seamlessly across different networks. 
  • This capability ensures that connectivity, accessibility, and information security remain intact, regardless of the specific cellular network utilized.
• Domestic Solution: SAMBHAV contributes to the nation’s self-reliance goals as an indigenously developed solution. 
  • It eliminates the need to rely on foreign vendors for crucial components, thereby enhancing control over information security.
• Scalability: The system is designed with scalability in mind, aiming to configure 35,000 SAMBHAV sets by mid-2023. 
  • This scalability ensures that the solution can effectively provide security across the Army, especially during mobility and operational activities.

SAMBHAV Challenges: Navigating Interoperability, Cybersecurity, and Financial Realities

• Interoperability Challenges: SAMBHAV may face challenges in ensuring compatibility with existing communication systems and seamless integration with allied forces, requiring additional effort and resources.
• Cybersecurity Concerns: SAMBHAV is not entirely foolproof despite its security features. Continuous updates and improvements are essential to address evolving cybersecurity threats and potential vulnerabilities to sophisticated cyberattacks.      
• Financial Commitment: Sustaining and updating a secure mobile ecosystem such as SAMBHAV might necessitate substantial and continuous financial resources from the government. 

Fortifying India’s Defenses: The Indian Army’s Strategic Focus on Cyber Capabilities

• Cyberspace has emerged as one of the “principle domains of hybrid warfare”, this present both opportunities and threats across the continuum of operations. 
  • This has resulted in the proliferation of networks and IT infrastructure “increasing manifold”. in the Indian Army.
  • The key focus areas are setting up robust cyber security infrastructure, augmenting capability to address cyber threats, integrating cyber capabilities at multiple levels, and adopting a multi-pronged strategy – all geared towards bolstering its cyber prowess.

Strategic Vigilance: The Indian Army’s Multi-Layered Approach to Cyber Defense

• Cyber Defense Triad: The Army has established a robust cyber defense system, involving skilled personnel, institutionalized procedures, and cutting-edge technology.
• Addressing Cyber Threats: Cyberspace is a key domain for hybrid warfare, and the Army is focused on countering cyber threats and security risks arising from network proliferation.
• Augmenting Cyber Capability: Specialized units called Command Cyber Operations Support Wings (CCOSWs) are being set up across commands to enhance the Army’s cyber warfare capabilities.
  • CCOSWs are ‘special sub-units’ to augment cyber capability.
• Multi-layered Approach: The Army integrates cyber capabilities at strategic, operational, and tactical levels through collaboration with national cyber agencies, CCOSWs establishment, and specialized training.
• Comprehensive Cyber Defense: The overall strategy involves setting up robust cybersecurity infrastructure, addressing cyber threats, integrating capabilities at various levels, and adopting a multi-pronged approach to bolster cyber prowess.

News Source: Business Standard

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The Himalayan Wolf has been assessed for the first time in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s Red List. 

Himalayan Wolf Declared ‘Vulnerable’ on IUCN Red List

• The assessment is based on a 2018 study led by a team of British and Nepalese researchers confirming the genetically unique lineage nature of the Himalayan or Woolly wolf.
• Himalayan wolf has now  been categorised as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List with just 2,275-3,792 mature individuals in the wild remaining.

About Himalayan Wolves: Majestic Giants of the High Altitude Grasslands 

• Scientific Name: Canis lupus Chanco
• Range Distribution: They are found in high altitudinal regions in the Himalayas and the Tibetan plateau of  India, Nepal and China.
• Habitat: High altitude Grasslands
• Morphology: It is larger in size than the Indian and European wolves. They reach upto 110-180 cm in length, about 75 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh around 50 kg. 
• Feeding habits: Their  prey base  includes yak, kiang, bharal, Tibetan gazelle, Siberian ibex, marmot and other small mammals like hare. 

Himalayan Wolf Conservation Challenges: Human-Wildlife Conflict, Hybridisation, and Habitat Loss

• Threats to Himalayan Wolf:

• • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Encroachment and depletion of wild prey populations resulting in the animal coming in for livestock population.
  • Feral Dogs: Hybridisation with dogs was an emerging threat to the Himalayan wolf population in Ladakh and Spiti where increasing populations of feral dogs pose a growing challenge.
  • Hunting: They are  illegally hunted for trade in its fur and body parts including paws, tongues, heads, and other parts. 
  • Losing Habitat: Their grassland habitat is constantly changing its nature due to climate change, encroachment, overgrazing, and human activities.

Conserving the Himalayan Wolf: Strategies for Prey Populations, Livestock Protection, and Public Awareness

• Securing and restoring healthy wild prey populations and landscapes and setting aside wildlife habitat refuges.
• Livestock Guarding Methods: Use methods such as predator-proof corral pens and using sustainable livestock herding practices, including reduced livestock loads, adapted herding.
• Management of feral dog populations
• Trans-boundary efforts in conservation of the species in range countries through research and monitoring.
• Improving herding/pasture management practices for Himalayan Wolf populations that are heavily dependent on livestock, like in Ladakh.
• Incorporating the Himalayan Wolf in conservation programmes, which may assist with promoting public acceptance and reducing persecution.
  • India is also home to the Indian/Common/Peninsular Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) found in the plains and the Deccan Plateau.

News Source: Down to Earth

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The 14th ministerial-level meeting of the India US Trade Policy Trade Policy Forum (TPF) was held in New Delhi. 

Bilateral Trade Surpasses $200 Billion Amid Global Uncertainties: Key Meeting Highlights

• Strengthening Bilateral Trade: Despite global trade uncertainties, trade momentum remains strong, exceeding $200 billion in 2023, a significant achievement of India US Trade Policy. 
• India US Trade Policy Forum (TPF): Established in 2005, TPF discusses market access and trade-related matters.

Key Achievements in India  US Trade Policy Forum 2023

• Prioritising Sectors: Focus on identifying priority sectors for joint initiatives, with a Joint Facilitative Mechanism to be established.
• Marine Trade: The finalised Turtle Excluder Device (TED) design paves the way for field demonstrations in February 2024.

• Public Health: Emphasis on enhanced cooperation to ensure safe and effective medical products, with India seeking more US FDA inspections.

• • The Ministers acknowledged the ongoing discussions on ensuring patient access to affordable medical devices, including through the Trade Margin Rationalization (TMR) approach.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Collaboration on India’s new IT hardware import requirements, with a commitment to minimizing trade disruption.

Trade Concerns and Opportunities in India US Relations

• The US welcomes India’s ethanol blending initiatives and offers potential supply support.
• India reiterated its interest in the restoration of its beneficiary status under the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences program.
• India expresses concern about a backlog of US FDA inspections, seeking faster clearances.
• India has also  flagged its concerns about challenges  being faced by domestic businesses in getting timely visas for the US and has urged America to fast-track the process,
• The US urges India to ensure its IT hardware import policy maintains trade openness.

Fostering Collaboration: Key Discussions in India US Trade Policy Forum

• Intellectual Property: Ongoing engagement on IP matters, including India’s patent system modernization.
• Agriculture: Finalisation of market access for certain agricultural products sought.
• Services: Constructive talks on digital trade, data protection, and services liberalization.
• Movement of Professionals: Discussions on recognition of professional qualifications and visa processing times.
• Resilient Trade: Commitment to transparent regulatory practices, eliminating forced labor, and resolving WTO disputes.

Future Prospects: Ongoing Dialogues and Anticipated TPF Meetings in India-US Trade Relations

• Regular engagements at various levels, including quarterly Working Group meetings and an inter-sessional TPF meeting, are planned.
• The next ministerial-level TPF meeting is slated for later in 2024.

News Source: PIB

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According to a new study published in Advances in Atmospheric Sciences, the amount of heat stored in the upper 2,000 meters of the global ocean reached 286 Zetajoules (ZJ) in 2023 relative to the 1981–2010 average.

Ocean Heat Content in 2023: Insights from Comprehensive Data Analysis

• Researchers analyzed data from the World Ocean Database, a collection of uniformly formatted, quality-controlled, publicly available ocean profile data.
• They used parameters such as ocean heat content, sea surface temperature, salinity, and stratification to describe ocean changes in 2023.
• The Atlantic, North Pacific, Western Pacific and Southern oceans are warming faster than the global average. 

Ocean Heat Content Surge in 2023: Record Levels, Alarming Trends & Environmental Implications

• Warming Oceans Globally: 

  • The upper 2,000 m of the world’s ocean has warmed on average by 6.6 ± 0.3 ZJ per year from 1958-2023 signifying a two- to three-fold increase in the rate of increase in ocean heat content since the late 1980s.
  • The 2023 ocean heat content is ranked as one of the five hottest years of the world’s ocean.

• Climate Shifts in 2023: Record CO2 Levels, Ocean Heat Surge, and Unprecedented Sea Surface Warming

• • CO2 concentration: It is 50 per cent above the preindustrial level in 2023 in the atmosphere.
  • Global sea surface temperature:  The annual mean was roughly 0.23 degrees Celsius higher than in 2022 reaching record high.

• • Mean  sea surface temperature: It  was 0.54°C higher than the 1981–2020 average.
  • Surface  temperatures : Reached  1.48C above the preindustrial era making 2023 the warmest year on record.The Salinity Contrast index : It shows the  difference between the salinity averaged over high and low-salinity regions, reaching 7.2 mg per kg in 2023, showing a robust increase in salt levels in the last 50 years.
  • Ocean density Stratification: In 2023, The upper 2,000-meter stratification reached record-high levels mainly due to the development of a strong El Nino.

The Critical Impact of Warming Seas on Climate and Extreme Weather Events

• The oceans absorb about 90 percent of the heat from global warming.
• When the ocean warms, it releases extra heat and moisture into the atmosphere, making storms more severe with heavier rain, stronger winds and more significant flooding.
• Ocean heat content also plays an essential role in Earth’s energy, water, and carbon cycles acting as a  robust indicator of climate change. 
• El Nino, a recurring climate pattern in the Pacific at intervals of 2–7 years, is associated with releasing ocean heat into the atmosphere, mainly through increased evaporation.

News Source: Down to Earth

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Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful flight test of the New Generation Akash Missile (AKASH-NG) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha.

The AKASH-NG Missile: Akash Missile

• Akash Missile is a state-of-the-art missile system capable of intercepting high-speed, agile aerial threats. 
• Akash Missile is a surface-to-air Missile. 
• Akash Missile can strike targets at a distance of around 60 km and fly at a speed of up to Mach 2.5.
• Developed by: Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics.

Akash-NG Missile: Precision Interception Against High-Speed Aerial Threats

• Indigenous Surface-to-Air Missile: India’s first indigenously produced medium-range Surface to Air missile that can engage multiple targets from multiple directions.
• Uniqueness: It can be launched from mobile platforms like battle tanks or wheeled trucks.
  • Akash Missile has a nearly 90% kill probability.
• Supported RADAR: The indigenously developed Rajendra.
• Electronic counter-counter measures: It has built-in electronic counter-counter measures (ECCM) features, which can help the missile punch through enemy jamming and other methods of evasion.
• Target Range: Akash Missile can hit targets between 4.5 km to 25 km, with an effective altitude of 100 meters to 20 km.
• Significance: Cheaper and accurate, have solid-fuel technology and high-tech radars.

News Source: The Hindu

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Recently, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has released the 19th Edition of Global Risks Report 2024, titled as “From Life to Lab: Science in Action”.

WEF’s 54th Annual Meeting in Davos: Shaping Global Agendas for 2024 and Global Risks Report 2024

• The 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum is set to take place from January 15 to 19 in Davos.

WEF’s Global Risks report 2024: Misinformation, Economic Uncertainty, and Environmental Perils

• Misinformation and Societal Polarization: The Global Risks Report 2024 highlights that risks posed by AI-driven misinformation and disinformation are closely linked with societal polarization. 
  • Environment of Elections and Concerning Nexus of Misinformation and Societal Polarization: With elections in major economies in the next two years, the main concern is for the nexus between falsified information and potential societal unrest.
    • Misinformation and disinformation is the 1st risk in India
• Economic Uncertainty: There will be persistent economic uncertainty and widening economic and technological gaps in the coming years. 
• Societal Issues: Over the longer term, a significant portion of the population may face challenges accessing economic opportunities, potentially leading to societal issues. 
• Cost of Living Crisis: A persistent cost-of-living crisis may lead to uncertainties in the global economic stability. 
  • Noticeable Risks: Inflation and economic downturn have emerged noteworthy top risks.
• Interstate Armed Conflict: The risk of interstate armed conflict is the immediate concern. 
  • Risk of Conflict Contagion: The ongoing conflicts, coupled with underlying geopolitical tensions pose the risk of conflict contagion.
• Absence of Secure Livelihoods & Arising Threats: In the absence of secure livelihood options, individuals may be prone to crime, militarization, or radicalization.
  • Growing Isolation: The Global Risks Report 2024 says countries with a history of conflict or vulnerability to climate change may face growing isolation from investment, technologies and job opportunities. 
• Environmental Risks: There is continued dominance of environmental risks in the World. 
  • Severe Risks: Extreme weather events, critical shifts in Earth systems, biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse, natural resource shortages, and pollution emerge as severe risks over the next decade.

Global Risks Report 2024: Key Recommendation 

• Localized Teamwork: There is a need for more localized teamwork among nations, businesses, and even individuals. 
• Cross-border Collaboration: Recognizing the vast economic, political, and environmental challenges, the Global Risks Report 2024 emphasizes that “cross-border collaboration at scale remains critical for risks that are decisive for human security and prosperity”.
• Rebuilding Trust: To encourage a “back to basics” approach, promoting open and constructive discussions among government, business, and civil society leaders.

News Source: World Economic Forum

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The Indian government plans to launch an HPV immunisation campaign to curb cervical cancer cases in the second quarter of the year. 

Free Vaccinations and Catch-Up Drive with Cervavac Launch for Girls 

• Free Vaccinations for Girls: The initiative will offer free vaccinations to girls aged 9-14 in three phases over the next three years. 
• Addressing Missed Vaccinations: The “catch-up” phase will address missed vaccinations, with the HPV vaccine later becoming part of the routine immunization program for 9-year-old girls. 
• Use of Indigenously Developed Cervavac: The indigenously developed Cervavac will be used in the government campaign.

Cervavac: India’s Breakthrough Quadrivalent HPV Vaccine for Cervical Cancer Prevention

• Quadrivalent Nature: Cervavac is India’s first indigenously developed quadrivalent human papillomavirus (qHPV) vaccine designed to prevent cervical cancer.
  • It is based on VLP (Virus-Like Particles)
• Developed by: The Serum Institute of India in collaboration with the Government of India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT).

• How does the Vaccine Work?

• • HPV vaccines prevent the entry of four common HPV types: 16, 18, 6, and 11. 
  • Key HPV Types Targeted:
    • Types 16 and 18: These are the most oncogenic HPV types, causing approximately 70% of all global cervical cancer cases. 
      • The vaccine focuses on preventing infections from these high-risk strains.

Combatting Cervical Cancer: Understanding HPV, Prevention, and the Impact in India

• About: Cervical cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the cervix. 

• • The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
• Causes: It is caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). 

• Prevention: 

• • Vaccination at age 9–14 years is a very effective way to prevent HPV infection, cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.

• Cervical Cancer in India: 

  • Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Indian women.
  • India accounts for nearly a fifth of global cervical cancer cases, with approximately 1.25 lakh cases and 75,000 deaths annually. 
  • According to a recent study published in The Lancet, India accounted for nearly one in every four deaths globally due to cervical cancer.

News Source: Indian Express

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Recently, the Prime Minister visited the Kalaram Mandir of Nashik, Maharshtra.

Kalaram Mandir: The Spiritual Marvels of a Black Ram’s Abode

• The Kalaram Mandir derives its name from a black statue of the Lord — Kala Ram translates literally to “Black Ram”.
• Built: Kalaram Mandir was built in 1792 by Sardar Rangarao Odheka.
• Location: Kalaram Mandir is situated on the banks of  Godavari in the Panchavati area of the city.
• Features: 14 Steps, 84 Pillars, and Divine Footprints
  • The main temple has 14 steps, representing the 14 years of Ram’s exile.
  •  The 84 pillars in the temples represent the cycle of 84 lakh species that one has to complete to be born as a human.
  • A  very old tree, with an impression of Lord Dattatreya’s footprints on the stone beneath it.

Kalaram Mandir: Bridging Faith & Social Justice in India’s History

• India’s Dalit Movement Connection: As per an account of the Satyagraha for Temple Entry  in Dhananjay Keer’s book, Dr Ambedkar: Life and Mission.
  • Dr BR Ambedkar and social activist Pandurang Sadashiv Sane, led a satyagraha at the Kalaram temple on March 3, 1930, demanding entry for Dalits into the sacred space.
  • This movement aimed to challenge the oppressive caste norms prevalent during the time.
  • During the satyagraha, Ambedkar and his 15,000 Dalit followers peacefully picketed the temple.
• The Ramayana Link: The Region of Panchavati is where Shri Ram, along with Sita and Lakshman, spent the first few years of their 14-year exile, and the abduction of Mata Sita by demon King Ravana set off the Ramayana war.

News Source: The Indian Express

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Cabo Verde as a malaria-free country, becoming the third country to acquire the status in the African region. 

Cabo Verde Attains WHO Malaria-Free Certification, Joining Mauritius and Algeria

• Cabo Verde has joined Mauritius and Algeria, certified in 1973 and 2019, respectively. 
• Till now, WHO has awarded the ‘malaria-free’ certification to 43 countries and 1 territory.
• Malaria burden is the highest on the African continent, which accounted for approximately 95% of global malaria cases and 96% of related deaths in 2021. 

Cabo Verde: Island Oasis in the Atlantic with a Rich Volcanic Landscape

• Cabo Verde: Also known as Cape Verde, it comprises a group of islands around 620 km off the west coast of Africa. 
  • It comprises a group of ten volcanic islands, which are divided into the Barlavento (windward) and Sotavento (leeward) groups.
• Location: It is located in the central Atlantic Ocean, off the northwest coast of Africa near Senegal, the nearest point on the African continent. 
• Capital: Praia in Santiago.
• Official Language: Portuguese 
• Westernmost Cape: Cabo Verde is named for the westernmost cape of Africa.
  • The term cape refers to a large, narrow, elevated landform that extends into a body of water, such as an ocean, river, or lake. 

Additional Information: World Malaria Report 2023: By WHO

News Source: DTE

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This editorial is based on the news “Green Hydrogen: Enabling Measures Roadmap for Adoption in India” which was published in WEF. The Report, Green Hydrogen: Enabling Measures Roadmap for Adoption in India has been released by the World Economic Forum.

Accelerating Green Hydrogen Adoption: A Strategic Roadmap for India’s Energy Transition

• The report  recommends public-private interventions in expediting the adoption of green hydrogen in India.
• It provides pathways for establishing green hydrogen as a viable energy source in India.

Hydrogen Production in India: Current Status & Environmental Challenges

• Currently, India produces 6.5 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) of hydrogen, predominantly for use in crude oil refineries and fertilizer production. 
• Most of the country’s current hydrogen supply is grey hydrogen, produced using fossil fuels in a process that creates CO2 gas emissions.

Green Hydrogen: Definition, Production Methods, and Diverse Applications

• The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has defined green hydrogen as hydrogen produced to emit no more than 2 kg of carbon dioxide per kg of such hydrogen. 
  • Currently, producing 1 kg of ‘grey hydrogen,’ as it is known, emits 9 kg of carbon dioxide.
  • While Green hydrogen is produced by electrolysis splitting water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen through an electrolyzer using renewable energy, grey hydrogen requires carbon combustion.
• Applications of Green Hydrogen: It is a key input in fertilizers and refineries, feedstock in the chemical industry to carry out various processes like ammonia production, transport, energy storage, power generation, etc.

Green Hydrogen Revolution: India’s Strategic Shift for Energy Security and Global Leadership

• Increasing Energy Demand: India is currently the third-largest economy in the world in terms of energy needs, and the country’s demand for energy is set to surge further.
  •  As per the report, the demand is estimated to grow 35% by 2030.

• Reducing Energy Import Cost: India’s energy import bill in 2022 was around $185 billion, which is likely to increase if the country continues to supply its growing energy demand through traditional methods. 
  • According to the MNRE, National Green Hydrogen Mission, India can reduce fossil fuel imports worth Rs 1 lakh crore by 2030.
• Climate Goals and Emission Reduction: India commits to achieve net zero by 2070 at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26), held in 2021. 
  • Green hydrogen can abate at least 50 MMTPA of greenhouse gases by 2030.
• Enhancing Energy Security: Green hydrogen is critical to help meet India’s energy security needs while reducing emissions in hard-to-abate sectors on the path to net zero. 
  • India has the potential to produce 210 Mtpa (598 Mtoe) of hydrogen from solar and wind and meet 32% of Asia-Pacific’s (APAC’s) hydrogen demand.
• Forex Earnings: According to the International Energy Agency,  there could be a global demand for about 180 million tons of hydrogen by 2030.
  • India may utilize this opportunity to transform itself from an energy importer to an energy provider and exporter.
• Geopolitical Implications: 
  • Growing Global Significance: The growing importance of Hydrogen in the energy space is expected to influence the technological and geo-political trends worldwide. 
  • Renewable Energy Advantage: Countries with access to abundant low-cost renewable energy could become producers/exporters of green hydrogen. 
    • This can be witnessed from the signing of MoUs on hydrogen and its derivatives trade. Ex-Japan has signed a cooperation agreement with UAE for production, supply, and trade of green or blue H2/NH3.
• Global Strategies: Many countries/regions around the world like the European Union, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan among others have announced their new strategies to import Green/Clean Hydrogen and its derivatives, thereby providing an opportunity for Indian producers.

Green Hydrogen Challenges in India: Production Barriers, Costs, and Infrastructure Hurdles

• Utilisation of Grey Hydrogen: Most of the hydrogen capacity in India  is mainly produced using natural gas within refineries and fertiliser industries. 
• Huge production Cost: The production costs of green hydrogen amount to roughly $4-5 per kilogram, equivalent to approximately double the price of grey hydrogen.  
  • The green hydrogen production costs is dependent upon the:
    • Round-the-clock renewable energy electricity costs, which account for approximately 50–70% of green hydrogen costs.
    • Electrolyser costs constitute 30–50% of total green hydrogen production costs.
• Water Intensive Nature of Electrolysers:  Water consumption by electrolyzers is another issue that needs to be discussed. Electrolyzers consume about 9 liters of water to produce 1 kg of hydrogen. 
  • Thus, seawater electrolysis  may be helpful, it requires further development and research work.
• Lack of Harmonised Standards and Codes: Since the industry is in a nascent stage in India, standards and codes for manufacture and safety for the entire chain of green hydrogen is required to be put in place.
  • India’s standards allow the use of biomass which also results in carbon emissions for the production of green hydrogen.
  • Moreover, diverting scarce renewable energy capacity towards the production of green hydrogen means inadequate clean electricity being made available for consumers.
• Inadequate Hydrogen Infrastructure: The existing hydrogen infrastructure is insufficient to promote the larger acceptance of fuel cell vehicles. 
  • Currently, India has only two established hydrogen refueling stations at the Indian Oil R&D Center, Faridabad, and the National Institute of Solar Energy, Gurugram.

Green Hydrogen in India: Navigating the Path to Sustainable Production and Adoption

• Renewable Energy Capacity Addition: India’s renewable energy potential can support its goals for green hydrogen growth but needs rapid capacity addition.
  • The country’s solar energy potential is estimated at 748 gigawatts (GW) at full capacity.
  • However, currently, the total installed solar capacity in India stands at 72.31 GW as of November 2023, or 9% of its total potential.
• Reducing the Cost of Producing Green Hydrogen: This includes 
  •  Renewable energy incentives and tariffs: For example, the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) recently achieved a cost of INR 2.6 /kWh through standalone solar and wind tender tariffs while tenders for RTC renewable energy stand at INR 4–4.5 /kWh.
    • SECI is an organization that facilitates renewable energy capacity development under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
  • Scale and Innovation in Electrolysers: This can be done by increasing direct subsidies for early adopters.
    • For example, the USA has announced, under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a tax credit of up to $3/kg of hydrogen.
    • Supporting long capital investment cycles for technologies with long-term clarity on policies and incentives 
    • Encouraging the development and testing of indigenous electrolyser technology.
• Disincentivize Carbon-Intensive Alternatives: Local, regional and national governments in India might consider diverting their current spending on fossil-fuel subsidies to projects supporting green hydrogen production and infrastructure-building.
  • For example, Europe has included green hydrogen under the Emissions Trading System.
• Reduce or eliminate costs related to green hydrogen conversion, storage, and transport:
  • Energy Conversion: In the short to medium term, allow/encourage companies to form clusters and bid for PLIs/other incentive schemes.
  • Transports: Investing in long-term infrastructure construction, including pipelines for transporting green hydrogen throughout the country.
    • For example, the European Union’s European Hydrogen Backbone program aims to develop a pipeline network in the EU.
  • Storage: Storage accounts for roughly 30–40% of total RTC renewable energy costs. This can be reduced by interventions for energy storage systems throughout the country. .
• Developing Harmonised Standards: Work with other countries/global organizations to develop harmonized global standards (and/or the ability to certify green hydrogen made in India according to importers’ norms).

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Context:

This editorial is based on the news “Iran-backed Houthis warn of ‘serious consequences’ after US, UK strikes hit Yemen” which was published in Indian Express. The United States-backed coalition including the United Kingdom launched airstrikes in Yemen, targeting Houthi rebels.

US-UK Airstrikes in Yemen and the Unfolding Humanitarian Crisis

• Airstrike Targeted: According to reports, the airstrikes by the US and UK on Yemen targeted an airbase, airports, and a military camp.
• The Red Sea Crisis: It is part of the violent regional spillover of Israel’s war with Hamas in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza.
  • Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and seizing 240 hostages.
  • Israel has responded byq attacking large sections of Gaza to annihilate Hamas, leading to the death of more than 23,000 Palestinians. 

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Houthis: Roots, Movement, and Regional Alliances in Yemen’s Civil War

• Houthis: The Houthis are a large clan belonging to the Zaidi Shia sect, with roots in Yemen’s northwestern Sa’dah province. They are a militant group that has been fighting the civil war in Yemen for a decade. 
• Houthi Movement: It began in the 1990s against the dictatorship of Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh. They now control northern Yemen, and have a presence in most regions of the country. 
• Iran’s backing: The Houthis are Shia, and are backed with arms and finances by the Shia regime in Iran. 
• Support for Hamas: Though Hamas is a Sunni organisation, it is backed by Iran because of their mutual opposition to the US and Israel. The Houthis’ support for Palestine and the Yemen conflict are a manifestation of existing regional rivalries. 

Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb: Strategic Maritime Passages in Global Trade

• Red Sea: A vital waterway for global commerce and energy shipping lanes.
• Bab el-Mandeb: It is a narrow strait between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is located between Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula, Djibouti, and Eritrea on the African coast. It is also known as the Gate of Tears.
• Significance: It is the route by which ships can reach the Suez Canal from the south, itself a major shipping lane.

Red Sea Crisis: Escalating Concerns for Global Security, Economy, and Human Lives

• Security Concerns: Due to the importance of the Red Sea shipping channel, the Red Sea crisis has risen to a global security threat, causing a serious impact on international shipping and global supply chain security. 
  • Further, Yemeni authorities have vowed vendetta against America and Britain for the air strike which has increased concerns about a potential escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict spilling over into the crucial waterway.
• Economic Concerns: The Red Sea crisis will lead to higher energy prices and higher inflation, which will have a greater negative impact on world economic growth, drag down the economic recovery of Asian and European countries, and cause huge losses to Egypt and other Red Sea shipping stakeholders. 
  • For instance, around 12% of the world’s trade passes through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal and after the Houthi attacks began, several major shipping and oil companies have announced they were pausing movement on this East-West passage.
  • The Houthi attacks have forced more than 2,000 ships to divert from the Red Sea since November 2023, leading ships to sail around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa which takes much longer and leads to higher fuel costs.
• Violation of International Laws: The attack by the US and UK is seen as a violation of Yemen’s sovereignty and international laws. Russia and China accused the Western allies of raising regional tensions and charged that the U.S. and British strikes violated international law and raised regional tensions.
  • Russia has requested an urgent UN Security Council meeting in connection with US and UK strikes on Yemen.
  • However, the US and UK defended the legality of strikes they launched against Yemen’s Houthis in the U.N. Security Council. 
• Increasing Threat to Human Lives due to Red Sea Crisis: In addition to existing Israel-Palestine challenges, the continued Houthi threats to maritime navigation coupled with the risk of further military escalation could potentially impact millions in Yemen, the Red Sea region and the world at large. 
  • For instance, the ship Galaxy Leader and its crew were seized by the Houthis.
• Aggravating Yemen Issue: Yemen has just gotten rid of external intervention with the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and the mediation of Oman and other countries are all factors that have improved the situation in Yemen. The situation will be more complicated if it is subject to military intervention again.
• Impact on Asian Economies due to the Red Sea Crisis: Beyond the regional crisis points, the depletion of security in the Red Sea will have a global impact, specifically for Asian economies such as India, Japan, South Korea, and China, drawing in their interests as well.

Red Sea Crisis: Impact on India’s Trade, Energy Security, and Overseas Citizens

• Impacts on Exports: The longer route is being used when exporting to Europe, the U.S. East Coast or even to countries in North Africa. 
  • According to the Federation of Indian Export Organisations, almost 90% of western hemisphere cargo, both inbound or shipped from India, that used to go through the Red Sea is now getting re-routed through the Cape of Good Hope.
• Impact on Imports: Besides the extra time taken on account of the longer route, the developments could make imports costlier and call for better inventory management. 
• Energy Security: The instability in the Middle East could lead to a spike in global oil prices. India heavily depends on oil imports, and any significant price increase could adversely affect its economy.
  • For instance, the Red Sea crisis could come in the way of any plans to reduce pump prices of petrol and diesel as India’s import dependence (based on consumption) in the April-September 2023 period was 87.6%, according to the government’s Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell.
• Impact on Security of Merchant Vessels: Houthis are attacking international shipping vessels with drone and missile attacks in the area. 
  • For instance, in December 2023, a Liberia-flagged merchant vessel (MV Chem Pluto) carrying a crew of 22 (of which 21 were Indians), came under a drone attack around 220 nautical miles southwest of Porbandar, Gujarat, while it was on its way to New Mangalore.
• Security of Indian Diaspora: The safety of the Indian diaspora residing in the conflict zone becomes a priority. India may need to undertake evacuation operations to ensure the well-being of its citizens.
  • For instance, as of March 2022, of the estimated 1.34 crore Non-Resident Indians, more than 66% are in the Gulf countries of UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain, according to the External Affairs Ministry. 

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Charting a Path Forward: Global Strategies for Resolving the Red Sea Crisis and Ensuring Regional Stability

• Achieving Peace Through Mediation: The escalating Red Sea crisis is evolving into a global security challenge that requires a joint response from the international community. 
  • At present, the US and Western countries should restrain from further using military means to resolve the Red Sea crisis and the Yemen issue. 
  • Strengthening international coordination and seeking a political solution should become the international consensus to resolve the Red Sea crisis.
• India needs a Balanced Approach: In response to the escalating Middle East crisis, India should proactively engage with all stakeholders, including Iran, the USA, and regional powers. 
  • Through diplomatic channels, India must advocate for de-escalation, dialogue, and a collective effort to address the root causes. 
• Role of International Organisation: According to the UN, no cause or grievance could justify Houthi attacks against freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.
  • The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) underlined the importance of ensuring the safety of seafarers, the freedom of navigation and the stability of supply chains. 
• Resolving Israel-Palestine Issue: The Red Sea Crisis is a chain reaction to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The international community should promote a comprehensive ceasefire between Palestine and Israel as soon as possible. 
• Strengthen Security Governance in the Middle East: Many security problems in the Middle East have their roots in development and governance. 
  • Favorably using the tide of reconciliation to promote security governance and economic development is a direction that requires greater efforts by countries in the region and the international community.
• Learn from Anti-Piracy Efforts: Draw lessons from successful anti-piracy efforts, such as coordinated patrols in the Gulf of Aden.
  • For instance, the global community did rally to address the issue of piracy off coastal eastern Africa, specifically around the waters of Somalia. 
  • In 2012, India joined China, Japan, and South Korea for coordinated joint patrols in the Gulf of Aden.. 
• Non-State Actor Consideration: Acknowledge the rising influence of non-state militant actors in the geopolitical landscape. Develop strategies that account for the evolving role of non-state actors and their impact on regional stability.

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