Context

Recently, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) & Indian Army conducted successful trials of indigenous Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile Weapon System.

• The Warhead Flight Trials were successfully conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Range, Rajasthan. Missile performance and warhead performance were found to be remarkable.

MPATGM Weapon System – Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile

• Indigenously Developed: MPATGM Weapon System is indigenously designed and developed by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO). 
• Comprises: The system consisted of the MPATGM, Launcher, Target Acquisition System, and the Fire Control Unit.
• Strike Range: 2.5 km
• Significance: Penetration trials of the Tandem Warhead System of MPATGM have been successfully completed.
  • It is found capable of defeating modern armour protected Main Battle Tank. 
  • The MPATGM Weapon System is well-equipped with day/night and top attack capability. 
    • Dual mode seeker functionality is a great value addition to the missile capability for tank warfare. 
  • It is an important step towards achieving self-reliance in advanced technology-based defence system development.

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Context

Operation Meghdoot completed 40 years after the commencement of presence of the Indian Army on the Siachen Glacier.

Operation Meghdoot 1984

• Background: By 1984, Pakistan’s cartographic aggression in the uncharted territory of Ladakh, allowing foreign mountaineering expeditions in Siachen, was becoming a cause of concern. 
  • To prevent an impending Pakistani military action in the area, India decided to thwart Pakistan’s efforts to legitimize its claim on Siachen. 
• Operation Meghdoot: It was launched by the Indian Army to secure strategic heights on Siachen with the deployment of troops. 
• The operation involved the airlifting of Indian Army soldiers by the IAF and dropping them on the glacial peaks. 

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• • Although the operation began in 1984, IAF helicopters were already operating in the Siachen Glacier since 1978, flying the Chetak helicopters which was the first IAF helicopter to land in the Glacier in  October 1978.
• Positioning of Troops: About 300-odd troops were positioned on the strategically important peaks and passes of the glacier. 
  • By the time the Pakistan army reacted by advancing its own troops, the Indian Army occupied strategically crucial mountain peaks and passes, thereby gaining a tactical advantage.
• IAF’s Role and Evolution in Operation Meghdoot: The IAF played a crucial role in supporting Operation Meghdoot, initially focusing on transport and helicopter aircraft for troop and material transport. 
  • Gradually, the IAF expanded its role, deploying fighter aircraft like the Hunter, MiG-23s, and MiG-29s, operating from high-altitude airfields at Leh and Thoise. 
  • This expanded role included fighter sweeps and simulated strikes over the glacier, boosting morale and deterring adversaries.
  • In 2009, the IAF inducted Cheetal helicopters, re-engineered for high-altitude operations, and in 2013, showcased its capabilities by landing a Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules at Daulat Beg Oldie.
    • Daulat Beg Oldie is the world’s highest airstrip near the line of actual control in Ladakh. 

Significance of Operation Meghdoot

• Technological Progress and Infrastructure Development: Over the last four decades, significant efforts have been made to enhance infrastructure and habitat on the Siachen Glacier. 
  • Example-Introduction of VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) technology has revolutionized communication on the glacier providing troops with crucial data and internet connectivity.
• Enhanced Supply Chain and Logistics: The introduction of heavy-lift helicopters and logistic drones significantly improved the supply of essential resources to personnel stationed at isolated posts, especially during harsh winter conditions. 
  • This includes ensuring the availability of clothing, mountaineering equipment, and rations.
• Improved Living Conditions and Connectivity: Recent initiatives have focused on improving connectivity, leading to advancements in the supply chain. 
• State-of-the-Art Medical Infrastructure: The Siachen Glacier now has state-of-the-art medical infrastructure, including telemedicine nodes established by ISRO. 
  • These facilities provide critical medical support not only to troops but also to the local populace and tourists in the Nubra Valley.

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Context

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have designed a sustainable hydrogel to remove microplastics from water.

Novel Hydrogel Removes Microplastics from Water: IISc

• Risks of Microplastics: According to IISc, microplastics pose a great threat to human health as these tiny plastic debris can enter human bodies through the water and increase the risk of illnesses. 
• They are an environmental hazard and found even in remote areas such as polar ice caps and deep ocean trenches, endangering aquatic and terrestrial lifeforms.
• Intertwined Polymer Network (IPN): The sustainable hydrogel has a unique intertwined polymer network that can bind the contaminants and degrade them using UV light irradiation. 
  • The novel hydrogel consists of three different polymer layers – chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol and polyaniline – intertwined together, making an IPN architecture.
  • Scientists have previously tried using filtering membranes to remove microplastics. However, the membranes can become clogged with these tiny particles, rendering them unsustainable.
• Integration of Nanoclusters: The team infused this matrix with nanoclusters of a material called copper substitute polyoxometalate (Cu-POM). 
  • These nanoclusters are catalysts that can use UV light to degrade the microplastics. 
  • The combination of the polymers and nanoclusters resulted in a strong hydrogel with the ability to adsorb and degrade large amounts of microplastics.
• Addition of Fluorescent Dye for Tracking: The researchers added a fluorescent dye to the microplastics to track how much was being adsorbed and degraded by the hydrogel under different conditions. 
• Efficiency in Removing Microplastics: The hydrogel was found to be highly efficient as it could remove about 95% and 93% of two different types of microplastics in water at near-neutral pH (∼6.5). 
  • Due to their minuscule size, these particles are imperceptible to the naked eye.
• Stability of Hydrogel: The team also carried out several experiments to test the durability and strength of the material.
  • The combination of the three polymers made it stable under various temperatures.

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Microplastics

• About: Microplastics are extremely small plastic particles. 
• Size Range:  These particles range from 100 nanometers (nm) to 5 millimeters (mm).
• Sources: They come from various places such as plastic waste, the breakdown of larger plastic items, and industrial activities.
• Widespread Presence: Microplastics are everywhere, including oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air.
• Detection Challenges: Their tiny size makes them difficult to detect without special equipment.

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Context

Ecuador, in a serious violation of the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations

raided at Mexico’s  embassy in Quito.

More on News:

• The raid was to arrest Jorge David Glas, a former Vice-President, convicted and sentenced for corruption who took refuge in the Mexican embassy in Quito in December.
• Ecuador declared Mexico’s Ambassador as persona non grata after Mexico’s President comments that were critical of Ecuador’s 2023 elections. 
• Mexico, which says its sovereignty has been breached, has now moved the International Court of Justice in the Netherlands, demanding the expulsion of Ecuador from the UN.

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About Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations

• Adoption: It was adopted on 14th April 1961 by the United Nations Conference on Diplomatic Intercourse and Immunities and entered into force on April 24, 1964.
• Membership: Currently, 193 countries are parties to this convention.
• Ratification: It is nearly universally ratified, with Palau and South Sudan being the exceptions. India has ratified the convention.
• Framework: Vienna Convention provides a complete framework for the establishment, maintenance and termination of diplomatic relations on a basis of consent between independent sovereign States.
• Article 22: Ecuador’s police action on Mexico’s embassy violated Article 22 of the Vienna Convention.
  • Principle of Inviolability: The premises of the mission shall be inviolable, the agents of the receiving State may not enter them except with the consent of the head of the mission.
  • Duties of the State: The receiving State shall take appropriate steps to protect the premises of the mission against any intrusion or damage and to prevent any disturbance of the peace of the mission or impairment of its dignity.
  • Immunity: The premises of the mission, their furnishings and other property thereon and the means of transport of the mission shall be immune from search, requisition, attachment or execution.

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Context

A panel was formed by the southern bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to probe the cause of the sea turning red in Puducherry in October and November 2023.

Sea turning Red in Puducherry Linked to Plankton Crash

• The panel comprising Member Secretary, Central Pollution Control Board, Member Secretary, Puducherry Pollution Control Committee, an expert from the Marine Biology Department of University of Puducherry, and a scientist from Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Parangipettai
• Investigation Findings: The panel dismissed the possibility of algal bloom and contamination from a nearby paper manufacturing unit’s effluents flowing into a canal that leads to the sea. 
  • It concluded that the dates of the unit’s soaking and beating processes in October – November 2023 did not align with the occurrences of discoloration at Promenade Beach.
  • The panel has attributed the phenomenon to plankton crash.  It held that there was high iron concentration, which may have favored plankton bloom.
• Impact of Environmental Parameters: The environmental parameters such as sea surface temperature (31°C), salinity(41psu), pH (6.5), and dissolved oxygen (5.8ppm) were assessed and related to the phytoplankton proliferation. 
  • The parameters were found to be conducive to the development of  plankton bloom.
• As per a study by Annamalai University, the majority of a particular unicellular species of phytoplankton — Noctiluca scintillans — in the sea were found ruptured, leading to the release of  red pigment into the sea.
• Suggestion by Panel: It recommended strict vigilance on quality of sewage carried in the canal which confluences at Kuruchikuppam and to take long term measures on untreated sewage presently being let into the sea.

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National Green Tribunal (NGT)

• About:  It was established in 2010 under the NGT Act, 2010 for effective and expeditious disposal of environmental protection and conservation cases. 
• The Tribunal is not bound by the procedure laid down under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, but guided by principles of natural justice.
  • Composition: The act allows for up to 40 members (20 expert members and 20 judicial members).
  • Chairman is the administrative head of the tribunal, also serves as a judicial member and is required to be a serving or retired Chief Justice of a High Court or a judge of the Supreme Court of India.
• Deals with cases under: 
  • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
  • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977
  • Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
  • Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
  • Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
  • Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991
  • Biological Diversity Act, 2002
• Benches of National Green Tribunal (NGT): 
  • Principal Bench: New Delhi
  • Regional Benches: Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai 

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Context

According to the 2024 Global Hepatitis Report by the World Health Organization (WHO), India accounted for a significant 11.6 per cent of the world’s hepatitis cases in 2022.

Key Findings from Global Hepatitis Report 2024

• Hepatitis cases in India: This translates to over 35.3 million hepatitis infections in the country, with 29.8 million hepatitis B and 5.5 million hepatitis C cases.
• Global Ranking: India ranked second after China, contributing 27.5 per cent of the global total with 83.8 million cases in 2022. 
  • Together, they accounted for nearly two-thirds of the global burden. Hepatitis is the second leading infectious cause of death globally after tuberculosis.
• Increase in Mortality: The Global Hepatitis Report 2024 documented an increase in the estimated mortality from 1.1 million deaths in 2019 to 1.3 million deaths in 2022.
  • This indicates that the number of hepatitis-related cancer cases and deaths are increasing globally. 
  • Hepatitis B caused 83 percent of these deaths and hepatitis C 17 per cent.  At the same time, about 304 million people were living with viral hepatitis B and C in 2022. 
• Demographic Trends of Infections: Half the burden of chronic hepatitis B and C infection is among people 30–54 years old and men account for 58 per cent of all cases.
• Chronic viral hepatitis can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma, which accounts for 80 per cent of all liver cancer cases and is the third most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide.

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• Diagnosis and Treatment Gaps in Chronic Hepatitis B Infections: Only 13 percent of people living with chronic hepatitis B infection had been diagnosed and close to 3 per cent had received antiviral therapy at the end of 2022. 
• Diagnosis and Treatment Gaps in Chronic Hepatitis B Infections: Only 36 percent of people living with hepatitis C had been diagnosed between 2015 and 2022.
  • Only 20 per cent had received curative treatment highlighting the opportunity for better linkages between diagnosis and provision of care.
• Reasons for Hepatitis C Transmission: Injecting drug use and unsafe medical injections leads to hepatitis C transmission. 
  • Unsafe medical injections alone added 13.8 per cent of new hepatitis C infections globally. Among the 60 countries studied by the WHO, Pakistan accounts for 44 per cent of all new hepatitis C infections attributed to unsafe medical injections.
  • Ten countries, including the United States of America, China, the Russian Federation, India, Ukraine, Italy, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Japan and Pakistan, are responsible for 80 percent of hepatitis C infections acquired through injecting drugs.
• Decrease in Diagnosis: The number of individuals diagnosed with the disease declined from 2.5 million in 2019 to 2.2 million in 2022. 
  • Immunization and safe injections affected bringing the numbers down worldwide. 
• Regional Variations: Due to regional variations, the WHO African Region accounts for 63 per cent of new hepatitis B infections. 
  • Despite that, only 18 percent of newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccination at birth in the region. 
  • Globally, only 45 percent of infants received the vaccination within 24 hours of being born.
  • Hepatitis B and C lead to chronic disease for hundreds of millions of people and together are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and hepatitis-related deaths.
• Although they all cause liver disease, they differ in important ways, including modes of transmission, severity of the illness, geographical distribution, and prevention methods.

About Hepatitis

• About: Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. It causes liver diseases, including acute and chronic infections, liver failure, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
• Mode of transmission: Infectious sources (virus, food and water contamination, and sexual transmission) and non–infectious sources (heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions).
• Main strains of Hepatitis: According to WHO, there are five main strains of the hepatitis virus, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E. 
  • Hepatitis A: The Hepatitis A virus causes an infectious liver disease. It is acute, and most symptoms are not recognised, particularly in young people. The symptoms are vomiting, nausea, fever, severe stomach pain, jaundice, and weakness.
  • Hepatitis B is a contagious disease caused by the Hepatitis B virus. It is transmitted through flat, exhausted wounds and contact with an infectious body’s blood, saliva, or secretions. The symptoms are stomach pain, tiredness, and jaundice.
  • Hepatitis C: The Hepatitis C virus causes an infection of the liver. This can be transmitted through infected needles, at birth, through an infected person’s body fluids, or by having sex with several partners, particularly HIV-infected people.
  • Hepatitis D is one of several serious liver illnesses caused by the Hepatitis D virus. It spreads through infected blood or wounds and may occur in association with Hepatitis B.
  • Hepatitis E: This is a waterborne disease caused by a virus. It could be spread through food, water, or tainted blood. It could be acute or persistent.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination. There is a need to ensure that all newborns receive complete vaccination and all adults should be offered, who were born before the vaccine was included in the national programme.
  • Hepatitis C is curable with medicines.
• Vaccination: The Hepatitis B vaccine is offered to children under the Universal Immunisation Programme in India, whereas the government’s National viral hepatitis control programme also offers the vaccine to high-risk adults, such as healthcare workers. 
  • Treatment for both Hepatitis B and C is available under the programme, but its reach is limited. 

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Government Interventions For Hepatitis Control

• National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP): The NVHCP was launched in 2018 with the goal of eliminating Hepatitis C by 2030. 
• Hepatitis B Vaccine: Shantha Biotech, situated in Hyderabad, created the first recombinant DNA-based vaccination against Hepatitis B infection.
• COBAS 6800 is an automated coronavirus testing instrument that can also identify viral Hepatitis B and C, among other things.
• Havisure: It is India’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine.
• Universal Immunization Programme: Hepatitis B is covered in India’s UIP, which offers free vaccination against eleven vaccine-preventable diseases. 

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Context

The Dr Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) celebrated the 134th Dr Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14, 2024 (DAF) on behalf of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India. 

Dr Ambedkar Jayanti 2024

The birth anniversary of Dr Ambedkar was celebrated near the statue of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at the Parliament House Lawn. 

About Dr Ambedkar 

• He  is popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar.
• He was born on April 14, 1891 near Indore, now Madhya Pradesh He belonged to the Mahar Family in Mhow
  • He was a politician, economist, and social reformer.
• He  advocated for the rights of the Dalit community, formerly considered as untouchables.

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• • The notable events include Equality Janta, Mook Nayaka, etc.
• Dr Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution.
  • He is  recognised as the “father of our Constitution”. 
  • He  served as India’s first Law Minister after independence.
    • He later resigned from the post due to a difference of opinion over the Hindu Code Bill. 
• Buddhism: In 1956,  he embraced Buddhism with many of his followers. 
  • The same year he completed his last writing ‘Buddha and His Dharma’.

Dr Ambedkar Contributions

• Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar played a major role in improving the lives of marginalized communities.
• He introduced reservations for Dalits and other religious groups.
• His major contributions are In the areas of fundamental rights, strong central government and protection of minorities. 
  • Dr. Ambedkar described Article 32 as the “soul of the Constitution”
  • Support for Strong Central Government: Ambedkar favored a powerful central government.
    • He was aware that caste discrimination was stronger locally and provincially, where upper castes might pressure the government to neglect lower caste interests.
    • According to him, The national government, less influenced by such pressures, could better protect lower caste rights.
  • Protection for Minorities: He believed that democracy’s ‘One man one vote’ principle wasn’t enough as the minority was the most vulnerable group in the nation. 
    • He ensured that Minorities should have a guaranteed share in power to prevent ‘Majoritarianism Syndrome’.
  • Parliamentary form of democracy: He was in support of parliamentary democracy. 
    • This form aligns with other national leaders.
  • He emphasized ‘democracy as a way of life’, beyond politics, extending to personal, social, and economic aspects.

Major Social Reforms Movements and Initiatives led by Dr Ambedkar 

• Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha (Outcastes Welfare Association): In 1923, Dr. Ambedkar founded this Sabha to promote education and culture among downtrodden communities.
  • Objective: To improve their economic status and address their issues in appropriate forums.
• Mahad March: In 1927, Ambedkar organized the Mahad March at Chowdar Tank. 
  • It started the movement against caste discrimination and priestly dominance.
  • Mahad Satyagraha is also known as Chavdar Tale Satyagraha. 
    • Objective: The objective of this Satyagraha was to allow untouchables to use water in a public tank in Mahad (currently in Raigad district), Maharashtra, India.
      • 20 March is celebrated as Social Empowerment Day in India.
• The Temple Entry Movement:  It was initiated by Dr. Ambedkar in 1930 at Kalaram temple.
  • This movement demanded that lower caste people enter temples and use temple wells.
  • Through this movement,  Dr. Ambedkar advocated Equal status for lower caste people 
    • Objective: This movement aimed to reform Hindu society by challenging caste-based discrimination.
  • Nasik is another landmark in the struggle for human rights and social justice.
• Three Round Table Conferences (1930-32): Dr. Ambedkar went to all three Round Table Conferences (1930-32) in London, where he strongly advocated for the rights of the ‘untouchables’.

• Poona Pact  with Gandhiji: Dr Ambedkar was in favor of a separate electorate for several communities including the ‘depressed classes’ Under the ‘Communal Award, announced by Ramsay McDonald. 
  • However, In 1932, Gandhi protested the Communal Award’s separate electorate by fasting while in Yerwada Central Jail.
    • This led to the Poona Pact, where Gandhi ended his fast and Ambedkar withdrew the demand for a separate electorate.
    • Instead, a set number of seats were reserved for the ‘Depressed Class’.
• Independent Labour Party and Provincial Elections: In 1936, Dr. Ambedkar organized the Independent Labour Party.
• He participated in the provincial elections and won a seat in the Bombay Legislative Assembly.
• • During this time, he advocated for ending the ‘Jagirdari’ system and supported workers’ strike rights. 
• Second World War: In 1939, during World War II, Dr Ambedkar encouraged Indians to join the Army to fight against Nazism, which he saw as similar to Fascism.
• Creation of the Central Bank of India: As an economist, he played a significant role in establishing the Central Bank of India, now called the Reserve Bank of India.

Relevance of Dr Ambedkar in Present Times

The legacy of Dr. Ambedkar is very significant today too. 

• Constitutional Values: As the chief architect of the Indian constitution, he included fundamental rights, democratic principles, and secularism in the legal framework of India. 
  • These constitutional values guide our actions, legal battles, and debates today too. 
    • These values give rights to each individual that protect them from exploitation, social injustices,  and discrimination on certain grounds such as sex, place of birth, caste, race, and religion. 
• Social Justice: Dr. Ambedkar fought against caste-discrimination, inequality, and untouchability to establish a more inclusive society. 
  • He focused on the systematic issues of the society and made special provisions in the constitution for the upliftment of marginalized societies. 
    • It is his efforts due to which the rights of marginalized groups have been saved so far. 
• Guide for policymakers: Ambedkar’s principles and his clarity of social structures, and democracy help the policymakers in understanding the ground reality of societal issues and struggles of the marginalized groups. 
  • His insights are very useful in policy formation, economic changes and global integration while balancing social justice worldwide. 

A few Important Works of Dr Ambedkar

• The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and its Solution
• Administration and Finance of East India Company
• The Evolution of Provincial Finance in British India 
• Mook Nayak (weekly) 1920
• Janta (weekly) 1930
• The Annihilation of Caste 1936
• The Untouchables 1948
• Buddha Or Karl Marx 1956, etc.

Awards and Tributes

• He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor in 1990.
• In the same year, a life-sized portrait of him was revealed in the Central Hall of Parliament.
• 10 Rupees and 125 Rupees coins: Government of India Issued 10 Rupees and 125 Rupees coins in 2015 to mark the 125 Birth Anniversary in the honor of Ambedkar.
• Knowledge Day (Dnyan Din): In 2017, the Government of Maharashtra declared April 14 as Knowledge Day (Dnyan Din) in honor of Ambedkar’s memory.
• Twitter created a Dr. Ambedkar emoji in 2017 for his birthday.
• On April 6, 2020, Burnaby City Council in Canada declared April 14 as “Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality.”
• British Columbia recognized April 2022 as Dalit History Month.
• In British Columbia, April 14, 2022, will be “Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Equality Day” as per the provincial government.
• Colorado, United States, will celebrate April 14, 2022, as “Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Equity Day” according to the state government.
• Starting in 2022, Tamil Nadu will mark April 14, Ambedkar Jayanti, as “Equity Day” according to the state government.

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Context

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) report titled “Cyber Risk: A Growing Concern for Macrofinancial Stability” presents a concerning picture of the increasing threats posed by cyber incidents to the financial sector.

Key Findings from Global Financial Stability Report 2024

• Increased Cyberattack Risks: The rise of digitisation, evolving technologies, and growing geopolitical tensions are creating increased cyberattacks, potentially jeopardizing global financial stability.
• Increased Attack Surface for Cybercriminals: According to CyberPeace, a Delhi-based think tank focused on policy-making around cybersecurity, the rise of financial technology (fintech) and digital banking services significantly increased the attack surface for cybercriminals.
• Surge in Card and Internet Fraud Cases: According to a recent Reserve Bank of India (RBI) report, there is a surge in card and internet fraud cases in the first quarter of FY24, with total damages reaching Rs. 630 crore.

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• Exploitation of Digital Vulnerabilities: These digital vulnerabilities are being exploited by cybercriminals to steal sensitive financial information, leading to substantial financial losses.
  • There is a growing reliance of financial institutions on third-party IT service providers. 
  • These dependencies introduce additional vulnerabilities, as a cyberattack on a single service provider could potentially impact multiple financial institutions.
•  Threat of Cyber Attacks and Data Breach: As per the global risk management survey focused on India by financial services firm Aon, the threat of cyber attacks and data breach were the top risks in the global financial market as well as in India (accounting for 18.3% of the losses incurred). 
• Risks of Systemic Threat:  The report warns that severe incidents at major financial institutions could pose a systemic threat, causing a loss of confidence, disruption of critical services, and even spillovers to other institutions due to interconnectedness.
  • While cyber incidents have not yet been systemic, the risk of extreme losses for firms – estimated to be at least $2.5 billion – has grown considerably. 
  • Moreover, indirect losses tend to be substantially larger than reported direct losses, further amplifying the financial impact.
• Mitigating Risks: The analysis suggests that more developed cyber legislation and better cyber governance at firms can help mitigate such risks.

• Role of International Cooperation: It can effectively respond to cyber incidents involving multiple countries. 
  • Collaborative efforts can enhance mitigation strategies and contribute to developing international norms and regulations governing cybersecurity.
  • Financial crimes like cyberattacks often transcend national borders, making coordinated efforts crucial.
• Strengthen Global Cybersecurity Defenses: There is a need for information sharing, best practices, and resource collaboration to strengthen global cybersecurity defences.
  • Ex-India participates in forums like the Financial Stability Board (FSB) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) to foster such collaboration.
  • It is imperative that developing nations like India establish a more robust mechanism for cyber security than is currently in place.
• Need for Global Action: The report calls for global action to address the rising threat of cyberattacks on the financial sector.

Global Cyber Preparedness Levels

• Inadequate Preparedness: The IMF survey of 51 countries revealed that many financial supervisors still lack robust cybersecurity regulations or resources for enforcement.  
  • 56% do not have a national cyber strategy for the financial sector
  • 42% do not have dedicated cyber security or technology risk management regulations
  • 68% lack a specialized risk unit as part of their supervision department
  • 64% do not mandate testing and exercising cyber security measures or provide further guidance
  • 54% lack a dedicated cyber incident reporting regime
  • 48% do not have cybercrime regulations.

Key Recommendations Highlighted in Global Financial Stability Report 2024

• Strengthening National Cybersecurity Frameworks: 

  • Countries must develop robust national cybersecurity strategies tailored to the financial sector. 
    • These strategies should include clear roles and responsibilities for government agencies, financial institutions, and other stakeholders.

• Enhancing Regulatory Frameworks: 

  • Regulatory frameworks for cybersecurity in the financial sector need to be strengthened and consistently enforced. 
    • This includes mandating minimum cybersecurity standards for financial institutions and service providers.

• Building a Capable Workforce: 

  • There’s a growing need to invest in building a skilled cybersecurity workforce. 
    • This includes training and education programs to equip professionals with the necessary expertise to identify, prevent, and respond to cyber threats.

• Fostering International Cooperation: 

• • Countries should collaborate on information sharing, best practices, and joint investigations to disrupt cybercriminal activities.

• Promoting a Culture of Cybersecurity Awareness: 

  • A strong cybersecurity culture within financial institutions is essential. 
    • This involves raising awareness among employees about cyber threats and best practices for protecting sensitive information.

• Prioritization of Cybersecurity Measures by Third-party IT Service Providers: 

  • This includes implementing strong encryption protocols, conducting regular security audits, and adhering to best practices for data security.
    • Financial institutions should conduct thorough due diligence when selecting third-party vendors and ensure contractual obligations regarding cybersecurity are clearly defined and enforced.

Status of India’s Financial Sector

• Challenges in Dealing with Cyber Threats: India’s financial sector, while experiencing rapid growth, faces significant challenges in dealing with cyber threats. 
  • Smaller financial entities lack the resources and expertise to combat sophisticated cyberattacks effectively.
• Cyber Attacks: As per a December 2023 report by the RBI, the Indian financial sector was confronted with more than 13 lakh cyber-attacks between January and October 2023.

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Government Interventions to Combat Cyber Threats

• Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS): It has been developed for quick reporting of financial cyber frauds and monetary losses suffered due to the use of digital banking/credit/debit cards, payment intermediaries, UPI, etc. 
• Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023: It aims to provide strong protection and privacy of personal data. 
• RBI’s cybersecurity framework: It outlines requirements for banks and other financial institutions to establish robust cybersecurity practices.
• • These practices include risk assessment, incident response, and information-sharing mechanisms. 
• Cyber Security Operations Center (C-SOC): It acts as a centralised hub for monitoring and responding to cyber incidents. 
• Cyber Crisis Management Plan (CCMP): It aims to enhance the financial sector’s resilience against cyber threats.
  • The CCMP provides a structured approach for managing cybersecurity crises and coordinating response efforts among stakeholders.

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Context

Recently, the Election Commission of India (ECI), has provided the facility of home voting for the elderly and Persons with Disabilities in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Eligibility for Vote from Home

• Voters above 85 years of age and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) with 40% benchmark disability began casting their votes for phase I and II of polling.  
• There are over 81 lahks 85+ aged voters and 90 lakh + PwD voters registered across the country.

Vote From Home for a ‘Notified Class of Electors’: ( A Postal Ballot Voting)

• It is the facility provided by the Election Commission of India to Absentee Voters, which is categorized  to vote from home.
• Eligibility: Under Rule 27A of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 has been amended to provide the optional postal ballot facility to ‘Absentee Voters’. 
• ‘Absentee voter’ has been defined in clause (aa) of Rule-27A of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, and includes
  • Persons employed in essential services 
  • Senior citizens above 85 years 
  • Persons with Disabilities (with 40% benchmark or above disability) 
  • COVID-19 suspect or affected persons 

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The category of essential services (Those who work in metros, railways and health care )is notified by the ECI under Section 60(C) of the R.P. Act, 1951 in consultation with the Government.

What Are Postal Ballots and Who Can Apply?

What are Postal Ballots? 

• Postal ballots, also known as mail-in ballots, allow registered voters to vote by mail instead of physically going to a polling station. 
• This system is a convenient alternative for individuals unable to vote in person due to various circumstances, such as being away from their home constituency, facing a disability, or performing essential services on election day.

Who Can Apply?

• Media persons covering polling activities. They must carry authorisation letters from the Election Commission 
• Service workers :  
  • Personnel of the armed forces posted away from home 
  • Central Armed Police personnel posted away from home, and those on poll duty 
  • All persons appointed on election duty who are not able to cast their vote at the polling station where they are enrolled as a voter are entitled to the facility of either an EDC or a postal ballot.
• Electors under preventive detention: Individuals detained under preventive custody orders during the election period.

Voting from Home Procedure 

Significance of Vote from Home

• Inclusivity: It will ensure equal participation of voters without any discrimination in election process 
• Accessibility: Without any barriers, persons with disability & Senior citizens can cast their vote in an accessible manner.
• Reduce Extra burden on Temporary Arrangement at the Polling Station: Like Ramp, Wheel chair, Special Medical facility arrangement etc
• Democratic Reinforcement: As every citizen is equally empowered to cast his/her vote therefore it will create a positive notion towards all the sections of society.
• To Increase in Voter Turnout:  Many elderly & PwD voters hesitate to go for voting due to various reasons at the polling station therefore it will help in increasing the voting percentage. 

Challenges with Vote from Home

• Logistical challenge: To visit individual houses and collect postal ballots. 
• Missed Visit of Polling Team: The unscheduled visit of the polling team did not create awareness in the local area.
• Secrecy of Vote: 
• • Undue Influence of Peer Groups or vested candidates to vote in their favour.
  • Matching of the Document Identification & correction.  

Way Forward

• Create a mass awareness campaign for the notified voters in their respective areas.
• Conduct Voting Exercises in the presence of booth-level agents of respective political parties door to door. & 
• Verified Identification Card: To ensure that ID proof of the voter is furnished apart from the electoral ID card and that the voter’s Aadhaar card is verified.

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Conclusion

This initiative marks a significant stride towards ensuring inclusivity and accessibility of the electoral process and bolstering democratic participation.

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Context

The Prime Minister tribute recently honored the victims of the 1919

Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

Jallianwala Bagh Monument in Amritsar

• National Monument: The site of the massacre is now a national monument, which serves as a reminder of the horrors of colonialism and the struggles for independence. 
• Yaad-e-Jallian Museum: A museum was also built in March 2019, called Yaad-e-Jallian Museum, to provide an authentic account of the massacre.

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Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

• About: On April 13, 1919, a large peaceful gathering had formed at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar on Baisakhi to protest against the Rowlatt Act. 
  • General Dyer, a British commander stationed in Punjab, ordered as many as 50 troops in Amritsar to start shooting at civilians, including women and children.
• Toll on Human Lives: The atrocity claimed the lives of at least 379 individuals and left over 1,500 injured.
  • The tragedy sparked a nationalist movement that aimed to achieve independence and attracted significant international attention.
• Protest by Nationalist Leaders: Rabindranath Tagore surrendered his knighthood in protest of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
  • Mahatma Gandhi relinquished the title of ‘Kaiser-iHind,’ bestowed by the British.
  • started the non-cooperation movement after the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.

Background of Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

• Approval of the Rowlatt Act: In late 1918, the approval of the Rowlatt Act by the Imperial Legislative Council sparked a strong sense of anger across the nation.
• Satyagraha Pledge: The satyagraha pledge was led by Mahatma Gandhi in Ahmedabad on February 24, 1919 which promised to disobey specific regulations, to be determined by a ‘committee,’ until the proposed Rowlatt law was scrapped.
• Call for Nationwide Strike: On April 6, a call was made for a nationwide strike which saw unparalleled success.

• British Suppression and Deportation of Leaders: Gandhi attempted to travel to Amritsar, but the British government led him back to Bombay (now Mumbai). 
  • Two leaders of the Punjabi satyagraha were forcibly deported. There was an instant public outcry in Amritsar following the incident.
• Brutal Crackdown by General Dyer:  The province’s Lieutenant Governor, Sir Michael O’Dwyer surrendered the city to the army, led by Brigadier General Dyer. 
  • About 20,000 people had assembled at the site on April 13. General Dyer showed up with an armed contingent and gave his men the command to fire without any prior warning. 
  • The gunfire continued until 1,650 bullets were fired. The firing stopped only when the gunpowder had run out.
• Hunter Commission: Lord William Hunter, former Solicitor-General of Scotland and Senator of the College of Justice in Scotland, presided over the investigative commission known as the Hunter Commission formed in 1919. 
  • The exchanges between the commission and Dyer are detailed in Nigel Collet’s 2006 book The Butcher of Amritsar: General Reginald Dyer.
• Impact:  According to many historians, this was a turning point in Indians’ relationship with their British colonists, and thus a pivotal moment in the course of India’s struggle for independence. 

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Context

Recently, Iran carried out a series of air strikes on Israel using 200-300 drones and ballistic missiles.

2024 Iran Israel Conflict- Why Iran Attacked Israel 

• These attacks were carried out by Iran’s para-military force “Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps” in retaliation to Israeli war jets targeting an Iranian consulate in Syria earlier this month.
• Iran called the attack Operation True Promise.

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• This is for the first time Iran has openly and directly attacked Israel. Before this, Israel had always alleged that Iran attacked through its proxy terrorist organizations Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthi rebels.
• The Iranian government also declared a prohibition on all vessels associated with the Zionist regime from navigating in the Oman Sea and the Persian Gulf. 
• Reaction by the World: 
• • Leaders from across the world have condemned the Iranian attack and called for immediate cessation of hostilities. 

Arising Concern- A Possibility of an All-out War

• Depends on Israel: It depends on how Israel responds to this direct attack by Iran. 
  • A strong Israeli reaction risks pushing the two countries into an all-out war, possibly dragging the US into it. 
• Involvement of Other Countries: US and UK forces are already involved in this latest escalation. They have shot down Iranian drones over Jordan, Syria and Iraq.
  • The US President re-affirmed his country’s “ironclad” commitment to Israel’s security. 
  • Impact on Balance of Power: The issue will get further compounded if the conflict escalates as a direct entry of the USA will be inevitable. 
• UN Reaction: The United Nations has called on Iran and Israel to show restraint, with the threat of a full-scale direct conflict between the pair looming over the Middle East.
  • Secretary-General of the United Nations warned the adversaries at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council not to further escalate tension in the region with further attacks, following mutual air attacks over the past two weeks. 
  • However, Iran and Israel concentrated on accusing one another of being a threat to peace.

Iran Israel Conflict and Its Impact on the World

• Economic Implications:

  • High Oil Prices: The immediate impact will be higher oil prices. 
    • Crude oil, already trading near six-month highs, may cross $100 per barrel if tension worsens. 
  • Disruptions to Supply-Chain: An all-out war will cause supply chain disruptions as Iran will execute its threat to shut down the Suez Canal. 
  • Threat of High Inflation: All this will push inflation up just when developed countries are looking to reduce interest rates. Global economic growth could fall below the 3.1% that the International Monetary Fund has projected for 2024.

• Challenge for International Diplomacy:

  • This Iran Israel Conflict might impact the Iran nuclear deal talk. Also, any further escalation could hamper peace processes in the region, with countries prioritizing national security concerns over diplomatic resolutions.

• Impact on Global Political Alignments:

  • With the involvement of the US in support for Israel, there may be shifts in international relations such as Russia and China might support Iran.

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• Regional Destabilization:

• • Both Israel and Iran hold significant importance in the region, and any escalation between them would destabilize regional stability.
  • Other countries such as Syria, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia could be drawn into a broader conflict.

Iran Israel Relations

• Iran was one of the first countries in the region to recognise Israel after its formation in 1948. It was only after 1979 that their diplomatic ties ended.
• Pre-1979 Iran Israel Ties: In 1948, the opposition of Arab states to Israel led to the first Arab-Israeli war. Iran was not a part of that conflict, and after Israel won, it established ties with the Jewish state. It was the second Muslim-majority country to do so after Turkey.
  • The Pahlavi Dynasty: The dynasty under the Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, ruled Iran then. It had US support, as did Israel, and the two countries maintained ties with each other, with Iran also selling oil to Israel amid its economic boycott by Arab states.
• The 1979 Revolution: A religious state was established in Iran after the Shah was overthrown in the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The regime’s view of Israel changed, and it was seen as an occupier of Palestinian land.
  • Iran also sought to grow its presence in the region, challenging the two major powers Saudi Arabia and Israel – both of whom were US allies.
  • Israel’s Iranian Supreme Leader termed Israel “Little Satan” and the United States the “Great Satan”, seeing the two as parties interfering in the region. 
• Iran’s Relations with Egypt: Egypt’s leader Nasser had long championed the idea of “pan-Arabism” in the region, for the cultural commonalities between the Arab states to be translated into larger solidarity and unity. This put Iran, a non-Arab country, at odds with it.
  • However, with the death of Nasser in 1970, Iran’s relations with countries such as Egypt warmed. 
  • Iran-Iraq Accord, 1975: Iran ceased support for Kurdish-Iraqi separatists, reduced hostilities and affected Israel’s strategic value to Iran.
• Post 1979: While Israel and Iran have never engaged in direct military confrontation, both have attempted to inflict damage on the other through proxies and limited strategic attacks.
  • Israel has attacked Iranian nuclear facilities from time to time. In the early 2010s, it targeted several facilities and nuclear scientists in a bid to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons.
• Stuxnet Cyberattack, 2010: The US and Israel are believed to have developed Stuxnet, a malicious computer virus that disrupted Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, marking a significant moment in cyber warfare.
  • It was the “first publicly known cyberattack on industrial machinery”.
• Iran’s Proxy Support: Iran is seen as responsible for funding and supporting several militant groups in the region that are anti-Israel and anti-US, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

India’s Relations with Both Nations & Position

• Important Ally: India has very difficult choices at the moment as both Iran Israel are important to India for its national interests. 
• India’s Position: It wants there should be “immediate de-escalation” and “step back from violence” and “return to the path of diplomacy” is, therefore, crucial to its national interest.

India Iran Relations

• Historical Relation: India-Iran Relations back to the ancient times of Indus Valley civilization and trade between the coast of southern Iran and India through the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea. 
• Political Dimension: Signed a friendship treaty on 15 March 1950. The Tehran Declaration was signed that shared a vision for an “equitable, pluralistic and co-operative international order.
• Geo-Strategic Location: Iran’s unique geographical position provides India access to Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Eurasia markets.
• Energy Security: Iran ranks 2nd globally in terms of gas reserves, presenting an opportunity for fuel diversification, decarbonization and share of gas in India’s energy mix until 2030. 
• Economic Ties: Bilateral trade was US$2.5 bn in 2022, reflecting an increase of 48% from 2021.
  • Indian Exports: Sugar, man-made staple fibers, electrical machinery and artificial jewelry. 
  • Indian Imports: Dry fruits, chemicals and glassware.
  • Iran included India in the list of countries whose citizens will not require a visa to travel.

• People-to-people and Cultural Ties: The Indian Cultural Centre was established in 2013 and renamed the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) in 2018 and India recently decided to include Farsi as one of the nine classical languages under the New Education Policy.

India Israel Relations

• Strengthening of Relations: The India Israel relationship has appreciably strengthened in recent years. Mr. Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel and Mr. Netanyahu has twice traveled the other way.
  • However, when Israel was indeed established, India duly extended recognition, but kept relations at consular level for more than four decades and in 1992 relations were upgraded to Ambassadorial level.
• Victims of Militancy: Both India and Israel share similar enemies in Islamist extremists, and both enduring terrorist attacks from self-declared holy warriors.
• Enhancement of Cooperation: Security and intelligence co-operation began to grow between India and Israel. Gradually, political and diplomatic relations became deeper.

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• • Israel became a vital source of defense equipment and intelligence co-operation for India. 
• India’s Stand during Hamas Attack: In this attack, India stands in solidarity with Israel. 
• India’s Strategic Decisions on Grouping:
• Association with Abraham Accords: India associated itself with the reorientation of the geopolitics of the Middle East following the Abraham Accords.
  • Abraham Accords: These are a series of agreements signed in 2020 between Israel and several Arab states, marking a historic shift in diplomatic relations in the Middle East.
• I2U2: Joined the “I2U2” (India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and the United States). 
• IMEC: Recently, India announced IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe-Economic Corridor).
  • An India-Middle Eastern Economic Co-operation initiative whose trade route would go from India through Saudi Arabia to the Israeli port of Haifa.
• Recently taken Actions:
  • Freedom of Navigation: India and Israel discussed the freedom of navigation for ships going through the Bab-el-Mandeb strait, which faced a threat from Yemen’s Houthi rebels. 
    • The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait connects the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean and is an important link for India’s trade with the Middle East, Africa and Europe. 
  • Operation Prosperity Guardian: It is a multinational security initiative launched by the US to counter the growing number of attacks against Israel-bound international traffic. 
    • Coalition includes the U.K., Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Seychelles, apart from the U.S.

What Are the Challenges for India amid the Iran Israel Conflict?

• Remain Unaffected: India has strategic ties with both Iran and Israel and for decades, it has been able to balance between the two sides. But if the conflict widens, it would be difficult for it to maintain an ambivalent position.
• A Testing Time: The emerging Iran Israel Conflict will test the Indian resilience in multiple domains be it political, diplomatic, economic or security. 
• Concerning Consequences: An escalation between the two countries has direct and tangible consequences for India, mainly on three accounts: its people, its economic interests and strategic needs.
  • Impact on People: There are about 18,000 Indians in Israel and about 5,000-10,000 Indians in Iran, about 90 lakh people are living and working in the Gulf and West Asia region. Any conflict that expands will end up posing a risk to the Indian community that is based in the region.
    • Example: India asked its citizens not to travel to Israel and Iran.
  • Impact on Strategic Needs: India has invested in a strategic relationship with major Arab countries, Iran, and Israel. India has been working in this region to push for the India-Middle-East-Europe Economic corridor, which has strategic as well as economic benefits for India. 
    • An escalating conflict could adversely impact the consensus that has been built.
  • Impact on Economic Interests: Though imports from Russia have increased, Arab states account for two-thirds of India’s oil needs. Higher oil prices will push up inflation and delay any interest rate cuts critical to boost GDP growth. Merchandise exports, already slow, will drop further.
    • Sensex and Nifty fell due to escalating Iran Israel conflict, making investors risk-averse.

Way Forward 

• A Dialogue-based Diplomatic Solution: India had always adopted this approach. India needs to engage with Israel more as Iranian actions have been initiated as a consequence of the Israeli attack on an Iranian complex in Damascus, Syria. 
• Proactive Engagement: It is now the responsibility of Israel to absorb the initial drone attacks launched by Iran and show restraint until Iran escalates it further. India must proactively engage with the USA, Iran, Russia, and Israel to ensure that this conflict is contained.
  • India has to make all-out efforts so that Iran does not get involved in a sustained conflict with Israel as it will mean a conflict with the USA which has already started emerging in this region of the world.
• Consideration of Future Challenges: A dialogue with the USA is required as it is involved in the Russia-Ukraine War, Israel-Hamas War, Houthis interference in the Red Sea, and the potential Iran Israel conflict. 
  • Hence, it will become difficult for the USA to meet its responsibilities if China escalates conflict in the South China Sea for integration of Taiwan or other such claims.
• Focus on Development: India has to discuss with Israel to establish defence manufacturing facilities in India which will meet the needs of India, Israel and also other friendly countries. It will provide Israel a more secure place to develop its defence industry.
  • India must fast-track the completion of the Chabahar Port in Iran which has been already delayed. Once this is completed, operationalised and put to use, it will give additional leverage with Iran to shape Iran’s opinion on its regional and world matters.
• Complete Process Fixation: India has to come up with its ‘process fixation’ in totality to promote its indigenisation drive and to counter the threat from China and Pakistan in addition to its emerging obligations in the new world order.

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