May 12 2024

Context

Krutrim, India’s Indigenous artificial intelligence startup has introduced  graphics processing unit as-a-service (GPUaaS) for enterprises and developers to train their AI systems.

About Graphics Processing Unit GPU

A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) was simply a small part of the central processing unit (CPU) within computers which was used exclusively for graphics and video rendering initially.

  • They are an important part of computing hardware enabling quicker processing. 
  • Application: 
    • Machine learning and deep learning: GPUs can significantly speed up the training of complex models on large datasets, enabling data scientists to repeat more quickly and improve model accuracy.
    • Data processing and analytics: Many big data processing tasks, like sorting or filtering, can benefit from parallel computing capabilities offered by GPUs, allowing organizations to process vast amounts of data more efficiently.
    • High-performance computing (HPC): Scientific simulations, financial modeling, and other computationally intensive workloads can utilize GPU acceleration to decrease time-to-solution.
    • Gaming and virtual reality: Cloud-based gaming services often depend on powerful GPUs for high-quality, real-time graphics rendering, providing an immersive experience.

Graphics Processing Unit

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

GPU As A Service (GPUaaS)

GPU As A Service (GPUaaS) is a computing service that allows businesses to access expensive GPUs for high-performance computing via the cloud without the need for installing or managing the expensive hardware in-house. It is essentially the SaaS deployment model for GPUs.

  • Evolution: The concept of GPUaaS was originally developed for cryptocurrency mining with BitcoinTalk  releasing the first publicly available GPU mining software in 2010.
    • GPU was gaining popularity in the niche industries of gaming, virtual reality and augmented reality to support the compute-heavy workloads.
  • How GPUaaS work?: 
    • GPUaaS simply connects businesses to remote GPU servers managed by  service providers  through a fully managed IT infrastructure.
    • A service provider manages the remote servers that host the GPUs and makes them accessible to businesses based on their demand. 
    • These remote servers can store, manage and process data without the need of any on-premises deployment.
  • Scope: The GPUaaS market had a valuation of USD 5 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 30%  from 2023, reaching a valuation of more than USD 8 billion by 2032.
    • As the processing capabilities of GPUs grow the demand for GPUaaS will also rise as GPUs are key to  implement future  projects based on GenAI, machine learning, etc such as  smart cities and energy-efficient buildings to provide real-time metrics and predictive analytics features. 
  • Advantages of using GPU As A Service (GPUaaS):

    • The Infrastructure problem: With GPUaaS, the service provider manages the entire infrastructure, freeing  business and individual users to manage, updating or installing any hardware or software. They can now simply access and use the GPUs on demand.
    • Robust Scalability: Businesses with data-driven compute-heavy processes can effortlessly meet their GPU demands based on project requirements to scale without any hassles.
    • Flexible Payments: GPUaaS is based on a pay-per-use model which enables organizations to pay only for the resources they use, reducing overall expenses and eliminating the need to procure and maintain expensive GPU infrastructure in-house.
    • Data Security:  Cloud-based GPU providers deploy robust security measures to ensure sensitive information processed on their GPUs is encrypted and protected from cyber-attacks.
    • Quicker Time-to-market: GPUaaS allows businesses to rapidly analyze, prototype and deploy products/services thanks to GPUs’ parallel processing capabilities.
    • User-friendly interfaces:  Such GPUaaS  platforms typically feature intuitive web interfaces, making it simple for even non-experts to set up and manage their GPU resources.
    • Collaboration: GPUaaS facilitates seamless collaboration among team members, allowing them to share workloads and access the same data sets without geographic limitations.
      • This can significantly enhance productivity for MLOps teams, machine learning engineers, and data scientists working on complex projects.
Also Read: What Is SaaS – Software As A Service

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

Aurora Lights in India

Auroras lights were imaged  by the astronomers of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru (IIA) through an all-sky camera positioned around the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle, Ladakh.

  • Auroras are  also witnessed in other parts of the world, including in the United States and the United Kingdom, Russia etc, while southern lights (aurora australis) were spotted in countries such as New Zealand and Australia.

About Auroras

Auroras are bright and colorful lights, formed due to an active interaction in Space between charged solar wind particles and the Earth’s magnetosphere. 

  • As the solar wind approaches the Earth, it is deflected by the planet’s magnetic field, which acts like a protective shield.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Explained: Key Terms

  • Solar winds: they are ejections of charged particles from the Sun’s atmosphere, mostly composed of protons and electrons.
  • The magnetosphere: It is the magnetic field region surrounding the Earth protecting  the Earth against solar winds and is strongest at the poles.
  • Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs): They are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s corona. They can eject billions of tons of coronal material and carry an embedded magnetic field
    • The fastest Earth-directed CMEs can reach our planet in as little as 15-18 hours. 
  • However, some of the charged particles are trapped in the magnetic field and they travel down the magnetic field lines at the north and south poles into the upper atmosphere of the Earth.
  • Interaction with atmospheric elements: These particles then interact with different gasses present in the atmosphere resulting in tiny flashes of light in the night sky. 
    • When solar wind particles collide with oxygen, a green colour light is produced. Interaction with nitrogen produces shades of blue and purple.
    • Example: How electrons flowing through gas in a neon light collide with neon and other gasses to produce different colored light bulbs.
  • Traditionally viewed: Auroras are usually seen in high-latitude regions of North and the South Pole all year round.
    • The phenomenon is known as the northern lights (aurora borealis) in the Northern Hemisphere and the southern lights (aurora australis) in the Southern Hemisphere. 

Aurora Lights in India, Why are auroras visible from Ladakh?

  • Heightened solar flare activity: Auroras expand to midlatitudes when the solar wind is extremely strong leading to solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) which can result in a geomagnetic storm (a temporary disturbance of the Earth’s magnetic field) 
  • Aurora Lights in IndiaThe Present Event: A geomagnetic storm was kicked off after a CME hit the Earth with The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) classifying  the storm as “extreme”.  A series of Coronal Mass Ejections have been predicted to come towards Earth till May 12.
    • Earth witnessed at least four strong solar storms crossing in just 2 days causing major disturbances to the Earth’s magnetosphere.
  • The source of these storms: It was from an active sunspot region  AR13664 spewing Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). 
    • Solar flares bound toward earth are travelling at a speed of 815km/second, disturbing the otherwise calm Space weather.
  • Intensity of the storm: The present Solar Storm activity is quite intense and is recorded at an above average level with a similar solar storm event being witnessed way back in November 2003.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Effects of Solar Storms:

  • Vulnerability of satellites: Solar Storms can interfere with and threaten the smooth operations of satellites operating in the Low Earth Orbit or LEO (200-1,600km) which are used for multiple purposes, such as navigation, military, intelligence, communications, etc
  • Increased Radiation: It can pose health risks to humans, especially airline crew and passengers,on flights at high latitudes, as the amount of solar and cosmic radiation reaching the upper parts of Earth’s atmosphere increases during solar storms. 
  • Drag effect on satellites: An excessive drag can mean satellites facing intolerable amounts of friction, which in extreme cases can ignite and burn down the satellites, ceasing their operations completely.
  • Power outages: They can induce geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) to overload electrical systems, leading to voltage regulation problems, transformer damage, and large-scale power outages. 

 

Also Read: Heat Action Plans (HAPs) For Heat Waves In India

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

Recently, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully tested a liquid rocket engine made with the help of additive manufacturing technology commonly known as 3D printing. 

PS4 Engine

About PS4 Engine – ISRO 3D-printed Liquid Rocket Engine

  • The PS4 engine, which is used as the engine for the fourth stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), was redesigned by ISRO for production using 3D printing.
  • It was developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC)
  • Type: Liquid Rocket Engine 
  • Propellant: It uses Earth-storable bipropellant combinations, nitrogen tetroxide and monomethylhydrazine as propellants in a pressure-fed system.
  • Thrust: Approximately 7.3 kN .
  • Function: The fourth stage is the final stage of the PSLV. 
    • It performs the precision orbit insertion for the satellite payload. Its liquid engine allows for precise orbital adjustments.
  • The PS4 engine is also utilized in the Reaction Control System (RCS) of the initial stage (PS1) of the PSLV rocket. 
    • PS4 EngineThe RCS controls a rocket, or spacecraft’s orientation, ensuring stability and maneuvering using small thrusters, enabling precise control for such tasks as attitude control during ascent, precise trajectory adjustments for stage separation, payload deployment and docking maneuvers.
  • The engine was manufactured by M/s WIPRO 3D in India and underwent hot testing at the ISRO Propulsion Complex at Mahendragiri. 
    • The LPSC revamped the engine to align with the Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) approach.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Why did ISRO use 3D printing to build the PS4 engine? 

  • The technology helped ISRO bring down the number of parts in the engine from 14 to a single piece
  • To eliminate 19 weld joints and save 97% of raw material.
  • It also reduced the overall production time by 60%.

What is 3D printing? 

  • 3D printing is a process that uses computer-created design to make three-dimensional objects layer by layer. 
  • It is an additive process, in which layers of a material like plastic, composites or bio-materials are built up to construct objects that range in shape, size, rigidity, and colour.
    • Materials used : including thermoplastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), metals (including powders), resins and ceramics.

How is 3D printing done? 

  • Essentials: To carry out 3D printing, one needs a personal computer connected to a 3D printer. 
  • Similarity with Traditional Printers : The (3D) printer acts generally the same as a traditional inkjet printer in the direct 3D printing process.
    • In it a nozzle moves back and forth while dispensing a wax or plastic-like polymer layer-by-layer, waiting for that layer to dry, then adding the next level. 
  • Process
    • Design a 3D model of the required object on computer-aid design (CAD) software and press ‘print’. The 3D printer does the rest of the job. 
    • Layering Method : 3D printers construct the desired object by using a layering method, which is the complete opposite of the subtractive manufacturing processes. 
      • 3D printers, on the other hand, build from the bottom up by piling on layer after layer until the object looks exactly like it was envisioned. 
      • It  adds hundreds or thousands of 2D prints on top of one another to make a three-dimensional object.
    • Common 3D print technologies include: 
      • FDM (fused deposition modeling): A print technology that extrudes a thermoplastic filament to create the layer-by-layer model. 
      • SLS (selective laser sintering): A polymer powder print technology,Pre-heated to its melting point, it is selectively melted with a CO2 laser, fusing the particles together to create a solid part. 
      • SLA (stereolithography): A print technology where a photosensitive liquid resin is solidified under an ultraviolet laser
      • PolyJet: A print technology that uses liquid photopolymers and builds parts by depositing the ultrafine droplets of these liquid photopolymers on a build platform through the print head(s).
    • Utility: 
      • It has the capability  of printing anything from ordinary objects like a ball or a spoon to complex moving parts like hinges and wheels.
      • Or It can  print a whole bike – handlebars, saddle, frame, wheels, brakes, pedals and chain – ready assembled, without using any tools. 

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Additive vs. subtractive manufacturing comparisons

PS4 Engine

PS4 Engine

Also Read: Orbital Debris Mitigation: ISRO’s Zero Debris Milestone

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

DigiLocker has become a digital placeholder for administrative and government-related documents. Now Students have the option of viewing their scores and even obtaining their verified marksheets.

About DigiLocker

DigitLocker app is part of the Indian government’s paper-free initiative aimed at letting users access, verify, and store essential documents in a digital wallet so that they are easy to retrieve and present to officials when required. 

  • Affiliated Ministry & Programme :  it is a flagship initiative of Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) under Digital India programme. 
  • Launched in : 2015
  • Utility : The app can be used when applying for a passport, reviewing marksheets, or proving one’s identity during travel. 
  • Legality : The issued documents in DigiLocker system are deemed to be at par with original physical documents as per Rule 9A of the Information Technology (Preservation and Retention of Information by Intermediaries providing Digital Locker facilities) Rules, 2016.
  • Current Coverage  :  As of early May, the app has over 270 million registered users, while nearly 6.7 billion documents like Aadhaar, insurance policy papers, PAN records, and driving licenses have been retrieved through it.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

DigiLocker

Significance of DigiLocker

Benefits to Citizens

  • Important Documents Anytime, Anywhere. 
  • Authentic Documents, Legally at Par with Originals. 
  • Digital Document Exchange with the consent of the citizen. 
  • Faster service Delivery- Government Benefits, Employment, Financial Inclusion, Education, Health. 

Benefits to Agencies 

  • Reduced Administrative Overhead: Aimed at the concept of paperless governance
    • It reduces the administrative overhead by minimizing the use of paper and curtailing the verification process. 
  • Digital Transformation: Provides trusted issued documents.
    • Issued Documents available via DigiLocker are fetched in real-time directly from the issuing agency. 
  • Secure Document Gateway: Acts as a secure document exchange platform like payment gateway between trusted issuer and trusted Requester/Verifier with the consent of the citizen. 
    • It has standard security measures in place including 2048 Bit RSA SSL encryption, multi-factor authentication (OTP verification), consent systems, timed log outs, and security audits.
  • Real Time Verification: Provides a verification module enabling government agencies to verify data directly from issuers after obtaining user consent.

Issues with DigiLocker 

  • Accessibility Challenges : Users who are unfamiliar with smartphone operations or struggle with app navigation may encounter difficulties in downloading DigiLocker, utilizing OTPs, and retrieving their credentials without assistance. 
    • This is particularly challenging for individuals who are unable to read. 
  • Data Matching Complexity :  Individuals with multiple names, aliases, inconsistent spellings, or slightly mismatched certificates may face obstacles in accessing their documents through DigiLocker. 
    • The app requires submitted details to precisely match the issuer’s data, leading to issues even with minor variations such as capitalization or initials.
  • Inconsistent Document Review Policies : There is a lack of consistency among different government authorities and law enforcement bodies in India regarding the acceptance of virtual documents through DigiLocker. 
    • While some insist on digital documents, others mandate original hard copies, creating confusion and inconvenience for users.
Also Read: E-Governance In India

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

Recently, a new Covid- 19 variant named “  KP.2” has been detected increasing in the United States. 

  • Till  mid-March, the cases were just 1% but now it is more than one quarter. 

About KP.2

  • KP.2 is part of the group of mutant known as  “FLiRT” group: 
    • This nickname has come from the initials of the mutations of these variants.
  • KP.2Descendant of JN.1: KP.2 originated from the JN.1 variant.
  • Mutations: The KP.2 (JN.1.11.1.2) variant carries two specific mutations in its spike protein: S:R346T and S:F456L.
    • There’s also an additional mutation in a non-S protein compared to JN.1.
  • Reproductive number of KP.2: A study conducted by researchers from Japan found that KP.2’s reproduction number is higher than JN.1 in different countries.:
    • However, despite its higher reproductive number, the infectivity of KP.2 is significantly lower (10.5-fold) than that of JN.1, as reported by TOI.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Challenges and Protection 

  • New variant (KP.2) might evade current vaccines: This variant is different from the one the latest vaccine targets (XBB.1.5).
    • Early studies suggest it might be able to infect even vaccinated people.
  • Certain groups at higher risk: People over 65, pregnant women, and those with weak immune systems are more likely to get severely ill from COVID, including KP.2.
    • Vaccination recommended for high-risk groups: These groups, especially those who haven’t gotten the latest vaccine yet, are advised to get vaccinated for some protection.
  • Prevention of serious illness: Even though the current vaccine might not fully block KP.2 infection, it can still help prevent serious illness.
Also Read: Fear Of COVID-19 Vaccines

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

Two Kerala government-run temple boards, responsible for 2,500 temples, have stopped using oleander flowers in offerings. 

  • This decision has been taken after a 24-year-old woman died from chewing oleander leaves accidentally.

Oleander flowers

About Oleander flowers

  • Nerium oleander is  commonly known as oleander or rosebay.  
  • Other name: In Kerala, the plant is known by the names of arali and kanaveeram
  • This plant is cultivated worldwide in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions.
    • Different oleander varieties have flowers of various colors.
  • Medicinal Use : In proper doses, it can strengthen and speed up heart contractions.
  • Features
    • Unique feature: It is well Known for its drought tolerance feature.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Traditional medicine

API (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India) mentions oleander root bark oil for skin diseases.

    • The plant has been “frequently described in Brihattrayi, Nighantus and other classical Ayurvedic texts. 
  • Charak Samhita: White flowered oleander leaves are prescribed externally for chronic and severe skin diseases, including leprosy.
  • Bhavaprakasha: Describes oleander as “visha” (poison) but also indicates its use for:
    • Vrana (infected wounds)
    • Kustha (skin diseases including leprosy)
    • Krimi (microbes and parasites)
    • Kandu (itching)

Reason for Oleander’s toxicity:

  • The reason for oleander’s toxicity is due to the presence of cardiac glycosides throughout the plant. These chemicals, including oleandrin, folinerin, and digitoxigenin, have strong effects on the heart.
    • Cardiac glycosides:These are steroidal compounds that can impact heart muscle function.
Also Read: Why Are Heart Attacks Becoming Common Among The Youth?

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

The M4 chip introduced by Apple in the iPad Pro includes a 16-core Neural Engine, referred to by Apple as the Neural Processing Unit (NPU).

About Neural Processing Unit (NPU)

  • A neural processing unit, is a dedicated processor designed specifically for accelerating neural network processes. 
  • Neural Network: It is a type of machine learning algorithm that mimics the human brain for processing data. 
  • Capability to Handle AI-Related Tasks: Thus, the NPU can handle machine learning operations that form the basis for AI-related tasks, such as speech recognition, natural language processing, photo or video editing processes like object detection, and more.
  • NPU Integration in Consumer Devices and Data Centers:  In most consumer-facing gadgets such as smartphones, laptops and tablets, the NPU is integrated within the main processor, adopting a System-on-Chip (SoC) configuration. 
    • However, for data centres, the NPU might be an entirely discrete processor, separate from any other processing unit such as the central processing unit (CPU) or the Graphics processing unit (GPU).

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

How is Neural Processing Unitdifferent from CPU and GPU?

  • CPUs: They  employ a sequential computing method, issuing one instruction at a time, with subsequent instructions awaiting the completion of their predecessors. 
    • In contrast, NPU harnesses parallel computing to simultaneously execute numerous calculations. This parallel computing approach results in swifter and more efficient processing. 
    • Thus, CPUs are good at sequential computing, executing one process at a time, but running AI tasks requires the processor to execute multiple calculations and processes simultaneously.
  • Neural Processing UnitGraphic Processing Units(GPUs): These processors possess parallel computing capabilities and incorporate integrated circuits designed to execute AI workloads alongside other tasks like graphic rendering and resolution upscaling. 
    • NPUs replicate these circuits solely to handle machine learning operations. This dedicated functionality leads to more efficient AI workload processing with reduced power consumption.
  • GPUs are still used in the initial development and refinement of AI algorithms, while NPUs execute those refined language models on the consumer’s device at a later stage.

Neural Processing Unit and on-device AI

  • Transition to Smaller Language Models: Large language models (LLMs) are often too large to be run on-device, leading service providers to offload processing to the cloud to deliver AI features based on their language models. 
    • However, major technology companies are now introducing smaller language models like Google’s Gemma, Microsoft’s Phi-3, and Apple’s OpenELM
  • Emergence of On-Device AI Models: This shift towards scaled-down AI models capable of running entirely on-device is gaining traction. 
    • As on-device AI models become increasingly prominent, the role of NPUs becomes crucial, as they are responsible for deploying AI-powered applications directly on the hardware.
Small Language Models (SLMs):  SLMs are more streamlined versions of large language models. 

When compared to LLMs, smaller AI models are cost-effective to develop and operate, and 

  • They perform better on smaller devices like laptops and smartphones.
  • SLMs are great for resource-constrained environments including on-device and offline inference scenarios.

 

Also Read: India AI Mission

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

Recently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the Assam’s Chief Secretary to provide details of officers who let polling stations, schools, and other construction activities in a wildlife sanctuary and a reserve forest in gross violation of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

  • In an affidavit filed in April, the State government said several schools, a tea garden, a 5-km road, and wells were found to have been built in the Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary and the adjoining Charduar Reserve forest apart from polling stations under the Dhekiajuli, Rangapara, and Sootea Assembly constituencies. 

About Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary

Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Location: Sonitpur, Assam.
    • The present core area of the sanctuary covers 175 sq km extending over the foothills of the Eastern Himalayan range. 
  • Status: It was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1998.
    • The Charduar Reserve Forest was created during the British period in 1878. 
    • Sonai-Rupai got its name from a small river that flows through this area.
  • Geography: 
    • Flowing Rivers: Dolsiri, Gabharu, Gelgeli, and Belsiri. 
      • During the rainy season, several wetlands known as “bheels” can also be seen.
    • Soil: A mix of clay loam with fine sand with striking features of Bhabar.
    • Forest: Tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests. 
  • Neighboring Protected Areas: 
    • The eastern boundary of Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary is marked by Gabhoru river. 
    • The western boundary is marked by the Panchnoi river and the further west area is surrounded by Rowta reserve forest. 

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About National Green Tribunal (NGT):

  • Establishment: It was established in 2010 under the NGT 2010 for effective and expeditious disposal of environmental protection and conservation cases. 
  • Mandate: It is a specialized body equipped with the necessary expertise to handle environmental disputes involving multi-disciplinary issues. 
    • The Tribunal is not bound by the procedure laid down under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, but guided by principles of natural justice.
  • Benches of National Green Tribunal (NGT): 
    • Principal Bench: New Delhi
    • Regional Benches: Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai 
    • The northern area of the sanctuary shares an interstate boundary with Kameng reserve forest of West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. 
    • In the southern area, there is Charduar reserve forest and villages.
  • Communities: Assamese, Nepali, Bodo, and indigenous people.
  • Wildlife Available: Indian wild bison, Asian Elephant, tiger, leopard, wild boar and the White Winged Wood Duck
Also Read: Complete List of 8 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

According to the report, Global Electricity Review 2024 by international energy analytics agency Ember, India overtook Japan to become the world’s third-highest producer of solar power in 2023. 

Key Highlights from the Global Electricity Review 2024 Report

  • Leading Solar Power Producers: The leading producer of solar power in the world is China which produced 584 BU of solar power in 2024.
    • Solar PowerChina is followed by the United States(US).
  • Solar Power Generation in India: India generated 113 billion units (BU) of solar power in 2023 compared to Japan’s 110 BU.
    • Generation in 2023 was 17 times larger than in 2015 (6.6 BU). 
  • Rank in Terms of Installed Power Capacity: In terms of installed power capacity, including renewable and non-renewable energy sources, India at 73 gigawatt (1 GW is one billion watts) ranks fifth in the world while Japan is at third place (83 GW).
  • Decline in Power Demand in Japan:  In 2023, Japan experienced a 2% (2 BU) decline in power demand following consecutive increases in 2021 and 2022, enabling India to surpass Japan. 
    • The sustainability of this trend in the following year remains uncertain. 
  • India’s Quest to Surpass the United States in Solar Production: To surpass the United States, currently in second place, India would need to double its current solar production and exceed 228 BU.
  • Solar PowerDiscrepancy Between Potential and Realized Output:  According to data from NITI Ayog, solar energy constituted 18% of India’s total installed electricity capacity of 442 GW as of May 2024. 
    • However, it accounted for only 6.66% of the actual power generated, highlighting the disparity between potential and realized output.
  • Carbon Intensive Electricity Generation in India: India’s electricity generation is more carbon-intensive (713 gCO2 per kWh) than the global average (480 gCO2/kWh), with coal accounting for three-quarters of generation in 2023. 
    • However, India’s per capita emissions from the power sector are just half the global average (1.0 tCO2 vs. 1.8 tCO2) and even below the average in Asia (2.1 tCO2). They are also the fourth lowest in the G20.
    • Coal accounted for the largest rise since 2000, increasing by nearly four times (+1,090 BU) from 390 BU in 2000 to 1,480 BU in 2023. 
  • Rise in Coal Share:  The share of coal generation increased from 68% in 2000 to 75% in 2023. Generation from gas and from other fossil fuels declined. 
    • In 2000, wind and solar accounted for only 0.3% of India’s power generation, but jumped to 9.9% in 2023.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Solar Power

Solar power is energy from the sun that is converted into thermal or electrical energy. 

Solar Power

  • Technology: It is done either through photovoltaic (PV) panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation (CSP). 
    • PV cells convert solar radiation (sunlight) into electricity. 
    • Concentrating Solar Power systems, use concentrated solar radiation as a high temperature energy source to produce electricity.
  • Cleanest Renewable Energy: It has been recognized as an alternative to conventional energy resources. It is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy source available.

Solar Power in India

  • Energy Transition Target: India has ambitious plans of sourcing about 500 GW, nearly half its requirement of electricity, from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. 
    • At least 280 GW from solar power by that year or at least 40 GW of solar capacity being annually added until 2030. 
  • Solar PowerIncident Solar Energy in India: The energy of about 5,000 trillion kWh per year is incident over India’s land area with most parts receiving 4 to 7 kWh m-2 per day. 
    • Solar power has a major share in the country’s current renewable energy capacity, which is around 180 GW.
  • Share of Rooftop Solar Installed Capacity: It is around 11.08 GW as of December 2023.
  • State with Largest Solar Capacity: Rajasthan is at the top with 18.7 GW, followed by Gujarat at the second position with 10.5 GW. 
  • State with Largest Rooftop Solar Capacity: Gujarat tops the list with 2.8 GW and Maharashtra by 1.7 GW.

Driving Factors Behind Solar Power in India

  • Favorable Geography: India is ideally suited for the production of solar power due to its year-round abundance of sunlight. 
    • India’s land area receives approximately 5,000 trillion kWh of energy annually, with the majority of regions receiving 4–7 kWh per sq m/day.
  • Decline in Solar Power Traiffs: The rapid decline in solar power tariffs from 2015 to around 2.5 per kilowatthour (kWh) from nearly Rs 6/kWh has rendered solar tariffs cost-competitive with conventional thermal power. 
    • Ideally, the availability of competitive solar tariffs should encourage greater adoption of solar energy, thereby influencing clean energy investment decisions in the states.
  • Solar Potential: India has an estimated solar power potential of 748.99 GW, indicating that the full potential of solar energy is yet to be harnessed.
  • Declining Technology Costs: The cost of renewable energy technologies has been on a downward trajectory, enhancing affordability for businesses and individual consumers alike.
  • Growing Energy Demand: India’s robust economic growth translates to rising demand for energy. This demand provides a substantial market for renewable energy investments, encouraging firms to venture into this sector.
  • Employment Generation: As the sector expands, more jobs will be generated, offering individuals a chance to contribute to the sustainable energy transition.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Challenges with Solar Power Generation in India

  • Challenges with Roof Top Solar Scheme Implementation: 
    • Loss Making DISCOMS: According to a December 2023 study conducted by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) were expected to ensure seamless access and connectivity for rooftop solar systems to the national grid. 
      • Challenges have been encountered in selling excess electricity to the grid due to ineffective partnerships with debt-ridden DISCOMs.
    • Slow Progress:  India promised to install 40 GW of rooftop solar capacity by 2022 but by the end of 2023, only 11 GW has been installed, including 3 GW in homes with the rest in commercial or industrial properties.
      • The goal has now been revised to 100 GW of rooftop solar installations by 2026, 40 GW of which would come from the residential sector alone.
  • Non Attainment of RPO Targets: According to government data, there is a shortfall in nearly 25 out of 30 states in meeting their annual solar RPO targets.
Renewable purchase obligations (RPO): These are mechanisms designed to compel power procurers in every state, like DISCOMS, captive power producers and open-access consumers, to annually purchase a certain minimum amount of renewable energy. 
  • Huge Import Dependency: India heavily relies on imports to meet its demand for solar cells and modules. China and Vietnam are the primary suppliers of these products.
    • Over the past five years, India imported around $11.17 billion worth of these products which amounts to around 0.4% of India’s total exports during the same period.
  • Lower Manufacturing Capacity in India: India’s domestic manufacturing capacity is significantly lower compared to China, and it’s primarily focused on the final stage (modules) rather than the entire production process.
    • China supplies 53% of India’s solar cell imports and 63% of solar PV module imports.
  • Inadequate Grid Infrastructure India’s current grid infrastructure was designed to support conventional fossil fuel-based power generation, which is more predictable and reliable. 
    • Ex- Plan to build huge solar plants in Leh was recently canceled due to a lack of transmission infrastructure.
  • Intermittency: This is posing a challenge in matching supply with steady demand, especially during evening peak periods.
    • The intermittency of renewable energy creates imbalances in the grid, which results in energy waste, grid instability, and reliance on backup power sources.  
  • Adverse weather conditions like heat waves and storms can hamper the power supply and cause blackouts.
  • Decreasing Solar Potential: A study published in the Journal ‘Mausam’ by India Meteorological Department has revealed a significantly decreasing trend in solar power generation potential in the country due to increased aerosol load. 
    • Causative factors behind increased aerosol load include fine particles from carbon emissions, fossil fuel burning and dust  and clouding.
    • Aerosols absorb the sunlight and deflect it away from the ground and they can also precipitate the formation of dense clouds that again block sunlight. 
  • Solar Waste:  According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India’s existing installed capacity has produced approximately 100 kilotonnes of waste.
    • This waste is projected to increase significantly to 340 kilotonnes by 2030.
  • Variable Bright Sunshine Hours (BHS): Annual BHS is high in northwest India  & Low in north, north-east and southern peninsular India.  BHS has significantly decreased in 75 percent of the selected stations.
    • Most of the stations exhibit maximum BHS during the pre-monsoon and minimum during the monsoon season. 

Government Initiatives to Promote Solar Power in India

  • Global Solar Facility: It is a payment guarantee fund created by ISA to stimulate investments in solar power projects, with a focus on underserved segments and geographies across Africa. 
  • International Solar Alliance (ISA): It is an intergovernmental organization launched in 2015 India and France during the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris. 
  • Rooftop Solar Programme: The scheme aims to expand India’s rooftop solar installed capacity in the residential sector by providing Central Financial Assistance.
    • The programme’s goal is to increase rooftop solar installed capacity to 40 GW by March 2026 and it is currently in its second phase.
  • Pradhanmantri Suryodaya YojanaThis scheme aims to equip 1 crore households with rooftop solar panels.
  • PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: It aims to provide free electricity to households in India. 
  • Suryagram: Modhera” in Gujarat became India’s first Battery Storage and Solar Power based ‘Suryagram’ with round-the-clock Renewable Power Supply.
  • PLI scheme: It aims to enhance domestic manufacturing across the entire solar supply chain, from polysilicon to solar modules.
  • Other Measures:
    • Permitting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) up to 100 percent under the automatic route,
    • Waiver of Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) charges for inter-state sale of solar and wind power for projects to be commissioned by 30th June 2025.
    • Notification of standards for deployment of solar photovoltaic system/devices.

Way Forward

  • Manage Solar Waste:
    • Database Maintenance: Policymakers need to maintain a comprehensive database of installed solar capacity to estimate future solar waste accurately.
    • Incentivizing Recyclers: Policymakers should provide incentives to recyclers to encourage effective management of growing solar waste.
    • Creating a Market for Solar Recycling: India needs to focus on establishing a market for solar recycling.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

  • Aligning Solar Installations with RPO Targets: With the implementation of new RPO targets from 2024, the pace of solar installations must align with commensurate RPO trajectories, and any deficits must be procured through the renewable energy certificate (REC) mechanism. 
  • Revamping of Grid Infrastructure: The grid infrastructure requires a revamp to accommodate the fluctuating and intermittent nature of power from renewables. 
    • With a high level of electrification, grid infrastructure should be developed on priority.  
    • A well-connected national grid that transcends several regions ensures optimal utilization of uneven distribution of energy sources.
  • Bundling Energy Storage with Generation:  Bundling energy storage with generation to create a more stable electricity generation unit, resembling traditional non-intermittent generators. 
    • Pumped hydro storage (PHS) projects and battery energy storage systems (BESS) are promising energy storage technologies that can play a crucial role in grid-balancing services.
  • Structural Reforms: Challenges associated with discoms’ health must be addressed. Implementation of the proposed Electricity Act is crucial for the revival of discoms. 
    • Direct benefit transfer, discom privatisation, strict RPO compliances and safeguards against contract renegotiation are urgently needed to hasten renewable capacity addition.
  • Understanding Solar Power Variations: Understanding the variations of solar power potential over the country is essential for the optimum utilization of solar energy in power generation, which demands accurate information of solar radiation and its variations.
  • Adequate Skilling & Training Programmes: Large-scale renewable energy projects could have positive employment outcomes at the district level, but they lead to massive employment shifts between sectors at the national level. 
    • Adequate skilling and training programmes targeting the unskilled and poorer populations are essential.
Also Read: Decline Trend In Solar Power Potential In India: IMD Study

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Context

Recently, the Indian Government has notified the Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act, 2023 through a Gazette notification. 

Inter-Services Organizations Bill 2023

Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023

  • The Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) (Command, Control, and Discipline) bill was passed by both the Houses of Parliament during the Monsoon Session of 2023 and received the assent of the President on August 15, 2023 and through a Gazette notification, enforced with effect from May 10, 2024. 
  • This development coincides with the government’s broader theaterisation plan to enhance coordination and efficiency across the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
  • In high level military reforms, the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) was created in 2019 with the mandate to ensure “jointness” of the three services in operations, logistics, transport, training, support services, communications, repairs, and maintenance. 
    • The top priority for the CDS is the proposed reorganization of the armed forces into integrated theater commands.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Gazette Notifications:

  • Gazette of India Notifications are published by the Department of Publication and are printed by the Government of India Printing Presses regularly. 
  • This is an authorized legal document of the Government of India containing the mode of operations under the law of the land.

Theaterisation Model:

  • Under this model, the government seeks to integrate the capabilities of the Army, the Air Force and the Navy, and optimally utilize their resources for wars and operations.

About Theatre Commands

A theatre command in the military refers to a specific geographical area where military operations are planned, coordinated, and executed under a single command. 

  • Aim: To enhance coordination and synergy among the Army, Navy and Air Forces.
  • Practiced in: Currently, almost all major countries like China, Russia, the US, the UK and France work on this concept.
    • In the US and China these theatre commands are based on the region of operation, but India is taking a different approach. India’s theatre commands adhere to the concept of ‘One Border One Force,’ which ensures focused and efficient management.
    • In India, the Shekatkar Committee (in 2015) had recommended the creation of 3 integrated theatre commands — northern for the China border, western for the Pakistan border, and southern for the maritime role.
Theatre Commands of China:

  • China reorganized its People’s Liberation Army into five theatre commands in 2016.
  • Aim: To enhance offensive capabilities and improve command-and-control structures. 

Need for Theatre Commands in India

Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023

  • For Theaterisation: It will result in the best utilization of the military’s resources to fight future wars. 
  • To Counter Challenges of Present Framework: 
    • Specific Service Legislations: At present, personnel of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force are governed in accordance with the provisions contained in their specific service Acts- the Army Act, 1950; the Navy Act, 1957; and the Air Force Act, 1950.
      • At the time of enactment of these respective Acts, most of the service organisations largely comprised personnel from a single service either Army, Navy or the Air Force. However, now there are numerous inter-services organisations where personnel of the armed forces and other forces serve together.
    • Separate Disciplinary Powers: The commander-in-chief or the officer-in-command of inter-services organisations is not empowered to exercise disciplinary or administrative powers over personnel belonging to other services. The lack of such powers had a direct impact on command, control and discipline.
      • Only officers of the respective services are empowered to exercise disciplinary powers over the service personnel under their respective Service Acts.
  • To Lowering Financial Cost: The existing framework is time-consuming and involves financial costs to move the personnel. 
    • Currently, the Army and the IAF have seven commands each while the Navy has three. 
    • Also, there are two tri-service commands – the Andaman and Nicobar Command and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) – apart from the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS).
    • There are also some tri-service organisations like the Defence Intelligence Agency, Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Space Agency, etc.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023

Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023

The Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023 comes ahead of the planned re-organisation of the Indian military into integrated theatre commands. It is essentially an ‘enabling Act’ and does not propose any change in the existing Service Acts/Rules/Regulations which are time-tested and have withstood judicial scrutiny over the last six decades or more.

  • Aim: To bolster effective command, control, and efficient functioning of the ISOs. 
    • It is part of a series of steps being taken by the government to strengthen the armed forces. It also empowers the central government to constitute an inter-services organisation.
  • Features of the Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023:
A Joint Service Command: 
  • Existing Inter-services Organisations will be deemed to have been constituted under the Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023.  
  • These include the Andaman and Nicobar Command, the Defence Space Agency, and the National Defence Academy.  
  • Personnel of ISO will belong to at least two of the three services: the army, the navy, and the air force.  
  • ISO will also include a Joint Services Command, which may be placed under the command of a Commander-in-Chief.
Controlling Power: 
  • It empowers the Commander-in-Chief or the Officer-in-Command of an ISO to exercise command and control over the personnel serving in or attached to it. 
  • He/she would be responsible for maintaining discipline and ensuring proper discharge of duties by the service personnel.
Role of Government:
  • Superintendence of an ISO will be vested in the Central Government.  
  • The government will issue directions to such organisations on grounds of national security, general administration, or public interest. 
  • The Central Government may notify any force raised and maintained in India to which the Act is applicable. 
    • This would be in addition to army, navy, and air force personnel.
Eligibility for Commander-in-Chie:
  • A General Officer of the regular Army (above the rank of Brigadier), or
  • A Flag Officer of the Navy (rank of Admiral of the Fleet, Admiral, Vice-Admiral, or Rear-Admiral), or 
  • An Air Officer of the Air Force (above the rank of group captain)
Function of Commander-in-Chie:
  • He will be empowered to exercise all disciplinary and administrative powers vested in: 

(i) General Officer Commanding the Army,

(ii) Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of a Naval Command, 

(iii) Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of an Air Command, 

(iv) any other officer/authority specified in the service Acts,

(v) any other officer/authority notified by the government.

Commanding Officer (CO): 
  • CO will be in command of a unit, ship, or establishment.  
  • The officer will also perform duties assigned by the Commander-in-Chief or Officer-in-Command of the Inter-services Organisation.  
  • CO will be empowered to initiate all disciplinary or administrative actions over the personnel appointed, posted, or attached to that ISO.
Theatre Commands:
  • The northern theatre command is likely to be in Lucknow. 
  • The maritime theatre command is likely to have its base in Coimbatore and will involve the IAF’s Prayagraj-headquartered Central Command.
    • Earlier, the plans were to set up the maritime theatre command headquarters in Karwar.
  • Its Southern Air Command is based in Thiruvananthapuram. 
  • The existing Andaman and Nicobar Command may be subsumed into the maritime theatre command and the HQ IDS will operate under the CDS. 
  • The SFC will continue to operate independently.
  • Strategy: The overall plan is to establish three adversary-based theatre commands – one facing Pakistan, another opposite China, and a maritime theatre command to tackle maritime threats outside the coastal borders of the country.

Significance of the Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023

  • Effective Maintenance: The Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023 empowers Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command of ISOs to exercise control over Service personnel, serving under them, for effective maintenance of discipline and administration, without disturbing the unique service conditions of each individual Service.
  • Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023Effective Resource Utilization: The forces will be able to pool their resources efficiently, resulting in the optimum utilisation of platforms, weapon systems, and assets. 
  • Greater Integration among Armed Forces Personnel: The Act will empower the Heads of ISOs and pave the way for expeditious disposal of cases, avoid multiple proceedings and will be a step towards greater integration & jointness among the Armed Forces personnel.
    • It lays a strong foundation for creation of joint structures in times to come and further improve the functioning of the armed forces.
    • This move is crucial as India faces evolving security challenges, requiring a more cohesive and integrated military structure.
  • Streamlining & Enhancement of Processes & Operations: It will streamline command and control structures, enhancing synergy in planning, logistics, and operations. 
    • India currently operates 17 single-service commands (Army 7, IAF 7, and Navy 3), which often operate independently, leading to inefficiencies. The ISO Act seeks to address these challenges by providing a unified framework for military operations.
  • To Safeguard National Interests: Theatre commands, in the long run, could also improve logistics management in the forces. A framework to collectively cater to the requirements of the three services could prove more beneficial than individual plans. It is significant to safeguard national interests in today’s complex security landscape.
    • Also, having a unified command structure with representatives from all three services will also lead to more efficient planning for both peacetime and wartime strategies.
  • Simpler & Efficient Communication: With a unified command structure, the communication processes could be simpler and more efficient as multiple levels of clearances across hierarchies and geographies are needed to corroborate plans and strategies. 
    • Currently, India’s multiple military commands are all located in different geographical areas. This, at times, causes communication hindrances during joint operations and exercises. 

Challenges to the Theatre Commands

  • Educational Bedrock: In terms of preparing the educational bedrock for military personnel to serve in theatre commands, India seems to be lagging behind. 
  • National Security Strategy (NSS): Many retired military professionals have criticised implementing theatre commands without having a coherent National Security Strategy (NSS). Essentially arguing that the theatre commands will not have a clear blueprint and policy objective to work towards without an NSS. 
  • Inter-Service Competition: The intense focus of each service on its own assets and influence can hinder the creation of synergy among the services.
  • Perception of Army Dominance: Concerns are arising over the integration of the commands that may perpetuate the perceived dominance of the army and provide it with greater operational control.
  • Limited Experience: With limited experience of integrated theatre commands, its implementation and adjustments in India is a serious challenge.
  • Infrastructure and Logistics: Coordinating and synchronizing the infrastructure and logistics requirements across different services could be complex and resource-intensive.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Way Forward

  • Institutional & Ideational Changes: As India moves towards implementing its biggest military overhaul, which could undoubtedly be a force multiplier, a few institutional and ideational changes will have to be incorporated to find the correct balance in such a transformation. 
  • Reworking on Curriculum: Also, the curriculum at staff colleges and war colleges can be reworked to provide officers with the knowledge and transferable skills to serve at the headquarters of corresponding services. 
Also Read: India Defence Exports: A Strategic Imperative

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

Aiming for UPSC?

Download Our App

      
Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

<div class="new-fform">






    </div>

    Subscribe our Newsletter
    Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.
    *Promise! We won't spam you.
    Yes! I want to Subscribe.