Nov 23 2024

Recently, the annual global climate conference, COP29, concluded in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Background of COP 29

  • Fossil Fuel Emissions: The UN reports that burning coal, oil, and gas accounts for more than 75 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and roughly 90 percent of all carbon dioxide emissions.
  • Rising Temperatures: The World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) projects 2024 to be the warmest year on record, with global temperatures 1.3°C above pre-industrial levels and the past decade being the hottest in history, demanding urgent action.

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About COP and UNFCCC

  • COP (Conference of the Parties): The primary governing body of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
  • UNFCCC: An international treaty created in 1992 during the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro to guide global climate negotiations, aiming to stabilise greenhouse gas concentrations at safe levels to avoid severe human-induced climate disruptions.
  • Membership: The UNFCCC includes 198 parties, comprising 197 countries and the European Union, reflecting near-universal global commitment to climate action.
  • Significant milestones mark the history of UNFCCC COP conferences:
    • Kyoto Protocol (1997): A landmark agreement at COP3 that set legally binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.
    • Copenhagen Accord (2009): At the COP15, Copenhagen Accord, developed nations pledged to provide $100 billion annually in climate finance by 2020 to help developing countries combat climate change.
    • Paris Agreement (2015): At COP21, Nations agreed to limit global temperature rise to below 2°C, aiming to cap it at 1.5°C.
    • Glasgow Climate Pact (2021): At COP26, nations focused on coal phase-out and enhanced climate finance commitments.
    • Loss and Damage Fund (2023): COP28 launched a fund to support countries affected by climate disasters.

  • Political Uncertainty: Potential U.S. policy shifts under Donald Trump, who previously withdrew from the Paris Agreement, could undermine global climate commitments and diplomacy.
  • Unmet Climate Finance: The $100 billion annual pledge from 2009 remains unfulfilled, complicated by conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, and funding debates. 
    • Establishing an ambitious New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) is critical to address this gap and provide clarity on future commitments.

About COP29

  • COP 29 stands for  29th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
    • These conferences serve as the principal forum for countries to discuss and make decisions on combating climate change. 
  • Venue: Baku, Azerbaijan.

New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG)

  • The NCQG refers to money that will be given to developing countries by developed countries to provide climate finance.
  • The NCQG is expected to be an update on the $100 billion per year that developed countries had promised developing ones in 2009 which would be mobilised from 2020-2025.
  • The 2015 Paris COP had committed to an NCQG by 2025.

  • Theme: “Investing in a livable planet for all.”
  • Focus of COP29: 
    • Dubbed the “Finance COP,” it aims to establish a new collective quantified goal (NCQG) to mobilise financial resources for climate action, especially for developing nations.
    • Find ways to accelerate the energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
    • Global adaptation strategies to combat climate vulnerability and curb global warming below 1.5°C (2.7°F) pre-industrial levels. 
    • The culmination of the first Global Stocktake, initiated at COP26, is central to COP29.
    • Operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund to address the needs of the most affected countries. 
    • Article 6 of the Paris Agreement: Article 6 of the Paris Agreement created principles for carbon markets and ways countries could cooperate to reach climate targets.
      • While rules were agreed to at COP26, still there is a need to establish the necessary guidance to operationalise it.

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Key Outcomes of COP29

  • Global carbon market: An agreement has been reached on international carbon market standards under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. 
    • It offers two pathways for countries and companies to trade carbon offsets, supporting the achievement of emission reduction targets set in their climate action plans, or nationally determined contributions
    • This framework can help direct resources to developing countries and potentially save up to $250 billion annually per year by enabling cooperation across borders.
  • Implementing Loss and Damage Support: COP29 has made progress in putting the Loss and Damage Fund into action, providing financial help to countries vulnerable to climate impacts.
  • Global Energy Storage and Grid Pledge: The pledge commits signatories to commit to a collective goal of deploying 1,500 GW of energy storage globally by 2030.
  • COP Hydrogen Declaration Launched: The pledge signatories commit to scale up renewable, zero-emission and low-carbon hydrogen production, and to accelerate the decarbonisation of existing hydrogen production from unabated fossil fuels.
  • Launch of the Hydro4NetZero-LAC initiative The initiative aims to develop and modernise sustainable hydropower infrastructure. 
  • Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative: launched in collaboration with FAO, aims to unite various efforts to address climate change in agriculture through adaptation and mitigation
  • Global Energy Efficiency Alliance, COP 29: The Global Energy Efficiency Alliance was launched by the UAE at COP29 in Azerbaijan, following the momentum built by the ‘UAE Consensus’ during COP28. 
    • This initiative highlights the UAE’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and conserving natural resources by promoting global collaboration.
  • Publication of Climate Change Performance Index 2025:  The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) uses a standardised framework to compare the climate performance of 63 countries and the EU (which account for over 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions),
    • under four categories: GHG Emissions, Renewable Energy, Energy Use and Climate Policy.
  • Baku Declaration on Climate Transparency: The declaration calls for global commitment to the full operationalisation of the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). 
  • Strengthening Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Countries are encouraged to enhance their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) with a 2025 deadline to update commitments.

India’s Evolving Role in Global Climate Governance

  • Early Caution (1970s): India approached global climate action cautiously, emphasising poverty alleviation alongside environmental protection.
    • At the 1972 Stockholm Conference, India highlighted the need to balance environmental concerns with economic needs.
  • Perception of Environmental Action as a Growth Constraint: Initially, environmental protection was seen as requiring reduced economic activities and industrialization, which could hinder economic growth and human development.
  • Adoption of Sustainable Development: The concept of sustainable development provided a framework for balancing economic growth with environmental conservation.
    • This shift helped bring developing countries, including India, into global climate action discussions.
  • Advocacy for Climate Justice: India has consistently championed Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) and called for finance, technology, and capacity-building support for developing countries.
  • Greater Engagement (2000s): India became an active participant in climate talks, hosting COP8 in 2002 at New Delhi and launching the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in 2008 to strengthen domestic climate efforts.

India’s Intervention at the Plenary Session of the UNFCCC-CoP29

The Mitigation Work Programme (MWP) is a process established by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to help countries scale up their mitigation ambition and implementation in order to achieve the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement

  • Mitigation Work Programme (MWP):  India expresses dissatisfaction on unwillingness by Developed countries to engage in the Climate Finance and Mitigation Work Programme at CoP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
    • India’s position on the Mandate of the MWP is that it should serve as a forum for open dialogue and exchange of ideas.
    • It should thus be non-punitive and non-prescriptive. 
  • Opposition to EU’s Carbon Border Tax: At COP29 in Baku, India and China opposed the European Union’s proposed carbon border tax, which seeks to impose levies on imported goods like steel, cement, and aluminium to ensure fair competition for EU products while reducing emissions.They argue that the tax violates UN climate principles and unfairly burdens their economies.
  • Finance vs. Mitigation in Climate Action: India firmly asserted that any attempts to deflect the focus from Finance to repeated emphasis on mitigation cannot be accepted.

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The International Labour Organization (ILO) defines Just Transition as : “Greening the economy in a way that is as fair and inclusive as possible to everyone concerned, creating decent work opportunities and leaving no one behind.”

  • New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG): India highlighted that as grant-based concessional Climate Finance is the most critical enabler to formulate and implement the new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), action will get severely impacted in the absence of adequate means of implementation. 
  • Global Stocktake (GST): India does not agree to a follow up of the GST outcomes. As per Paris agreement, GST is supposed to only inform parties to undertake climate action.
  • India on Just Transition: India strongly declined to accept any renegotiation of the shared understanding prevalent on ‘Just Transitions’ in the decision from Dubai.Just transition is often seen as a domestic issue, with national governments responsible for ensuring fairness. 
    • However, India emphasises that a true just transition starts globally, with developed countries leading in mitigation and providing support to developing nations.”

Importance of COP for India:

  • The COP discussions are crucial for India to advance its climate goals, gain access to climate finance, and address the challenges of transitioning to a cleaner energy future.
  • India’s Climate Commitments and NDCs
    • First NDC Submission: India submitted its first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the UNFCCC on October 2, 2015.
    • Updated NDC (2022): In August 2022, India updated its NDC, outlining climate goals for 2030.
  • Achievements in Climate Targets
    • Reduction in Emissions Intensity: India has already reduced the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33-35% from 2005 levels.
    • Non-Fossil Fuel Energy Capacity: India has achieved about 40% of its electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy sources.
    • India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 under the Paris Agreement.
  • India’s Role in Climate Finance
    • Carbon Credit Market: India has also been a beneficiary of climate finance.It holds approximately 31% of the global carbon credits market.
    • CDM Projects: India has the second-largest number of registered projects under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol.
      • The CDM of the Kyoto Protocol are important means for facilitating and expediting India’s steady energy transition away from fossil fuels to renewable sources of energy production.
      • Renewable energy projects contribute approximately 50 percent of CDM initiatives in India.
    • LiFE initiative: India promotes the LiFE initiative, which encourages global sustainable consumption patterns and environmentally friendly practices.
  • Need for Investment and Technological Upgrade
    • Dependence on Fossil Fuels: With 78% of its energy needs met through fossil fuels, primarily coal, India faces significant hurdles in transitioning to renewable energy.
  • Loss and Damage Fund: Under the Loss and Damage Fund touted to be operationalised at the ongoing COP, India stands to receive significant potential financial support for it has been facing several extreme events in the past years in the form of floods, cyclones, etc. that has affected local communities, especially indigenous people. 
    • India has the second highest population of indigenous people after Africa. 

Challenges After the COP29

  • Deadlock on a New Climate Finance Goal (NCQG) : The developed countries offered no more than $250 billion by 2035 as the New Collective Quantified Goal for Climate Finance (NCQG) despite acknowledging that at least $700 billion would be needed until 2030 to help developing countries.
    • This was deemed unacceptable by several developing countries. This might impact the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) update by nations.
  • Loss and Damage Fund Management: The operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund still remains a complex issue
    • Ensuring equitable distribution of funds to countries most vulnerable to climate impacts, and managing these funds effectively, will require clear governance structures, monitoring systems, and coordination among international bodies.
  • Implementation of Agreements: While COP29 may set ambitious targets, the real challenge lies in translating agreements into action. 
    • Many previous commitments, such as climate finance pledges and emission reduction targets, have faced delays or been unmet.
  • Political Will and Global Cooperation: Climate policies often face resistance due to national interests, economic constraints, or political opposition.
  • Monitoring and Accountability: Ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of climate actions will be difficult. 
    • There is a need for robust mechanisms to track progress on emissions reductions, climate finance, and adaptation projects to avoid greenwashing or delays in fulfilling commitments.
  • Mitigation and Adaptation Commitments: While nations have pledged net-zero targets, disparities in implementation and ambition persist, especially between developed and developing economies.
  • Geopolitical Conflicts: Example: The war in Ukraine has similarly shifted Europe’s focus towards energy security, diverting attention and resources away from long-term climate objectives.
  • Ensuring Just Transition: As the world shifts to a low-carbon economy, ensuring a just transition for workers and communities dependent on high-carbon industries will be a significant challenge.

Way Forward

  • Strengthening Global Cooperation: To overcome geopolitical tensions, countries must prioritise collaborative action on climate change. 
    • Enhanced diplomatic efforts are needed to facilitate agreements on emissions reductions, renewable energy, and finance mobilisation​
  • Enhanced Technology Transfer: At COP29, there must be greater emphasis on the transfer of clean energy technologies to developing countries. 
    • Initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance, should be scaled up to ensure global energy transitions​
  • Operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund: To operationalize the Loss and Damage Fund, funding criteria, clear allocation mechanisms, developing the criteria for funding to be mobilised and disbursed around loss and damage must be established.

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Conclusion

  • COP29 made significant progress in setting standards for international carbon markets, advancing the Loss and Damage Fund, and pledging increased climate finance.
  • However, challenges remain in implementing these agreements, ensuring adequate funding, and maintaining global cooperation to meet long-term climate goals. 

India’s aquaculture sector has seen greater adoption of Biofloc Technology (BFT) and Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS).

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  • Department of Fisheries is promotes BFT & RAS by offering subsidies at national and state levels.
  • Currently, India is the second-largest producer of farmed fish globally (after China), contributing to food security, employment, and economic growth.

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About Biofloc Technology (BFT)

Biofloc Technology

  • It is a sustainable aquaculture technique that uses microorganisms to convert waste products into nutrients for fish and crustaceans.
  • Biofloc: It is a protein rich live feed formed as a result of conversion of unused feed and excreta into a natural food in a culture system on exposure to sunlight and vigorous aeration.
  • Working: It  uses beneficial bacteria (floc) to convert organic waste into microbial biomass for fish consumption. It requires aeration systems for oxygen levels and mechanical filtration to maintain water quality.
  • Advantages:
    • Reduces need for chemicals/antibiotics.
    • Sustainable, cost-effective, & suitable for small farmers or backyard farming.
  • Challenges:
    • High initial investment (₹4–5 lakh).
    • Requires frequent monitoring of carbon-to-nitrogen ratios and floc levels.
    • Limited species suitability→ Indian Major Carps like rohu & catla are difficult to rear in northern regions

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About Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)

  • Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) is a technology that recycles water for fish farming in indoor tanks.
  • Working: It filters & recycles water using mechanical and biological filtration systems and creates a controlled environment for temperature, oxygen, & cleanliness.
  • Advantages:
    • It offers high biosecurity, less disease risk, and reduced need for antibiotics.
    • It is suitable for indoor farming or areas without natural water sources.
  • Challenges:
    • High investment & operational costs.
    • Requires constant power supply, backup systems, & skilled labor for monitoring and maintenance.

The Global Nitrous Oxide Assessment has recently been published by the United Nations Environment Programme & the Food and Agriculture Organization.

  • It is the first international report focused solely on N2O in more than a decade. 

Crucial Insights on the Global Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) Assessment Report

Key Findings

  • Global Warming Impact:
    • N₂O currently contributes 0.1°C to global warming.
    • Its continued increase in emissions makes it impossible to limit warming to 1.5°C.
  • Anthropogenic Emissions:
    • Increased by 40% since 1980, with 75% originating from agriculture (synthetic fertilizers and manure).
  • Ozone Depletion and Health Risks:

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The Gothenburg Protocol:

  •  The Gothenburg Protocol (was adopted in 1999) was established to address pollutants that cause acidification and ground-level ozone. 
  • It sets limits on air pollutants including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, ammonia and volatile organic compounds that are hazardous to human health and the environment

    • N₂O is the leading ozone-depleting substance, increasing harmful UV exposure.
    • Raises risks of cataracts (0.2–0.8%) and skin cancer (2–10%).
  • Abatement measures: The report highlighted that currently, available abatement measures could reduce N2O emissions by more than 40 per cent below current levels.
  • Emissions Sources:
    • Agriculture: It is currently the source of 75% of those emissions, of which approximately 90% comes from the use of synthetic fertilisers and manure on agricultural soils and 10% from manure management.
    • Industry: Industrial sources account for approximately 5% of emissions, and the remaining 20% come from fossil fuel combustion, wastewater treatment, aquaculture, biomass burning, and other sources.
  • Rise in Emissions: Atmospheric abundance of the gas has risen by over 20% since pre-industrial era; its mean annual growth rate over the past five years (2017–2021) was 1.2 parts per billion a year and was nearly twice that of the early 2000s (2000–2004).

Suggested Measures

  • Agriculture: Use of enhanced-efficiency fertilisers, nitrification inhibitors, & slow-release formulations can reduce emissions.
  • Industry: Industries can eliminate N2O emissions by adopting existing and relatively low-cost abatement measures that could cost $1,600-6,000 per tonne of nitrous oxide. 
  • Fossil Fuel Reduction: Transition to renewable resources in transportation & energy production.
  • Manure Management: Balance nutrient inputs in animal feed, reduce grazing intensity, & apply anaerobic digestion of manure.
  • Multilateral Options:  Adopting targets like the Gothenburg Protocol on ammonia & nitrogen oxides under the Convention on Long Range Transboundary Air Pollution.
  • Transformations in food production: Transformations in food production and societal systems could lead to even deeper reductions in  Nitrous Oxide emissions.

Nitrous Oxide and Its Absorbent Sinks

About Nitrous Oxide (N2O)

  • It is a Greenhouse gas (GHG) 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide (CO2).
  • It has the third-highest concentration, after CO2 and methane (CH4), in Earth’s atmosphere among GHGs responsible for global warming.
  • It can live in the atmosphere for up to 120-125 years and is approximately 270 times more powerful than carbon dioxide per tonne of emission at warming the Earth.

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Absorbent “Sinks” of Nitrous Oxide

  • Soils: Microbial processes in soils can consume and reduce N₂O emissions. 
    • Denitrifying bacteria convert N₂O to nitrogen gas (N₂) under anaerobic conditions.
  • Oceans:  Deeper and subsurface oceans absorb N₂O from the atmosphere through dissolution at the air-sea interface.
    • Marine phytoplankton play a role in consuming dissolved N₂O
  • Stratosphere: N₂O reacts with ozone (O₃) which leads to the formation of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ultimately nitrogen gas (N₂).  

The Adarsh Gaushala, Gwalior MP has achieved a landmark feat with the establishment of India’s first modern, self-sufficient gaushala that houses a state-of-the-art Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant. 

About Compressed Biogas (CBG)

  • It is a renewable gaseous fuel produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic matter like agricultural residues, animal dung, food waste, and municipal solid waste.

About Gwalior’s Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plant

  • Capacity: It can process 100 tons of cattle dung daily to produce 2-3 tons of Bio-CNG. 10-15 tons of bio-manure for organic farming.
  • It incorporates windrow composting for additional organic waste processing.
    • Windrow Composting: It is a method of composting that involves piling organic waste into long rows, called windrows, and turning them regularly to improve the compost.

  • Production: It requires purification of biogas (to remove impurities like carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, and moisture). 
    • This refined and compressed gas, containing over 90% methane, becomes CBG, boasting properties similar to conventional compressed natural gas (CNG).
  • Properties:
    • Calorific value & properties similar to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
    • Serves as a green, renewable fuel.
  • Applications: It can replace CNG in automotive, industrial, & commercial sectors.

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Government Initiatives for Compressed Biogas (CBG) 

  • Phased Mandatory Blending of CBG: It was announced in 2024 Interim Budget → CBG with CNG (transportation) and PNG (domestic use)→ Transition to a green gas-based economy & Address environmental degradation and promote cleaner energy sources.
  • National Policy on Biofuels 2018: It emphasises on promotion of advanced Biofuels including CBG. 
  • Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBAR-DHAN) Scheme: It aims  to convert cattle dung and solid waste in farms to Bio-CNG (CBG) and compost. 
  • Central Financial Assistance for Bio-CNG: Notified by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. 
    • Financial assistance under the program is available for Biogas generation, Bio CNG generation, Power generation from MSW, Biomass Gasifier etc.
  • SATAT Initiative: It promotes entrepreneurs to set up Compressed Biogas plants, produce and supply CBG to Oil Marketing Companies for sale as automotive & industrial fuels.
  • RBI priority sector lending: It includes loans (up to ₹50 crore) for start-ups setting up CBG plants.
  • IREDA Business Plan (2022–2026): It includes financial assistance for CBG in its disbursement targets.
Additional Reading: Compressed Biogas (CBG)- Potential and Its Challenges

World Fisheries Day is celebrated across the world on 21 November annually. 

  • It began in 1997 during the formation of the World Fisheries Forum in New Delhi, where representatives from 18 countries signed a declaration promoting sustainable fishing practices.

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Awards for best performance in Fisheries

  • As part of the World Fisheries Day 2024, National Fisheries Development Board, Hyderabad confers awards in three categories as follows.
    • Best performing State/UT – Inland, Marine, Himalayan & North-eastern region, Union Territory
    • Best district – Inland, Marine, Himalayan & North-eastern region, Union Territory
    • Best Enterprise/Entrepreneurs – Best Fish Farmer shortlisted throughout the Country (Inland & Marine Category), Best Fisheries Cooperatives / FFPOs, Best Fisheries Enterprises/Entrepreneur.

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World Fisheries Day 2024

  • Theme: India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Small-Scale and Sustainable Fisheries
  • Initiatives Launched
    • 5th Marine Fisheries Census: It is a comprehensive data for evidence-based policymaking.
    • National Plan of Action (NPOA) on Sharks:  It aims to conserve shark species  and prevent their  overexploitation.
    • Bay of Bengal-Regional Plan of Action (BoB-RPOA): It tackles illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing

  • Kerala received the award for Best Marine State, while Telangana was recognized as Best Inland State.

    • IMO-FAO GloLitter Partnership Project: It  addresses marine plastic pollution and promotes cleaner oceans.
    • Retrofitted LPG Kits: It introduced fishing vessels for promoting eco-friendly practices.
    • Single Window System for Coastal Aquaculture: It Streamlined online registration for aquaculture farms.
    • Voluntary Carbon Market Framework: It  encourages carbon trading in the fisheries sector and incentivizes sustainable practices.

India’s Global Leadership in Fisheries

Achievements of India 

  • India is the 3rd largest fish producer globally, after China & Indonesia (According to FAO, 2021).
  • 2nd largest aquaculture producer.
  • Largest shrimp producer in the world.

Associated Government Schemes and Policies

  • Blue Revolution Integrated Development and Management Fisheries Scheme (2015-16): It  Increased marine and inland fish productivity.
  • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY, 2020): It aims to double fisheries exports to ₹1 lakh crore by 2024-25 
  • Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF, 2018-19) : It  Provides financial assistance and supports fisheries in infrastructure projects.
    • Further, It provides up to 80% project cost funding with 3% interest subvention.
  • ICAR-CIFE: It trains fisheries professionals and focuses on research and capacity building.

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World Fisheries Day

Promoting Sustainable Fisheries

  • National Policy on Marine Fisheries (2017): It gives a framework for sustainability through balanced exploitation.
  • Prohibition of Destructive Practices: It bans practices like pair trawling and LED fishing.
  • Sea Ranching and Artificial Reefs: It  Enhances marine biodiversity and Supports sustainable fishing practices.
  • Funding:  ₹2,584.50 crore for FY 2024-25  which is a 15% increase from the previous year.
  • National Fisheries Development Board: It was established in 2006 as an autonomous organisation under MoFAH&D.

Recently, the Ministry of Communications notified the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024 introducing stringent security measures and increased accountability for telecom entities.

Cybersecurity

  • It  is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. 
  • These cyberattacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information; extorting money from users through ransomware; or interrupting normal business processes.

Key Provisions under Telecom Cybersecurity Rules

  • Key Measures:
    • Specifies timelines for telecom companies to report security incidents & make disclosures.
    • Empowers the central government or its authorised agency to seek traffic data (excluding message content) from telecom entities for cybersecurity purposes.
  • Obligations for Telecom Entities:
    • Must appoint a Chief Telecommunication Security Officer.
    • Required to report security incidents within six hours of discovery, along with relevant details of the incident.
  • Incident Reporting: Within 24 hours, telecom entities must provide detailed information, including:
    • Number of users affected.
    • Duration and geographical area impacted.
    • Network or service functionality impact.
    • Remedial actions taken or planned.
  • IMEI Registration Rule:
    • Manufacturers of equipment with International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers must register the number of such equipment with the government before their first sale in India.

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Indian Telecom Sector & Associated Laws 

  • Sub-sectors of The Telecommunications industry:  Infrastructure, Equipment, Mobile Virtual Network Operators, White Space Spectrum, 5G, Telephone service providers, & Broadband.
  • India’s Telecom industry is the second largest in the world with a subscriber base of 1.19 Bn (Sept 2024) 
  • Primary Laws:
    • The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885:  In 2003, the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) was set  by amending the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. 
    • The Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933.
    • The Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950 was repealed by the Repealing and Amending Act, 2023 to reflect regulatory adaptability.
  • Regulatory Authorities: The TRAI Act, 1997 established Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) for tariff regulation and created the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT).
  • Licensing Authority: Central Government.
  • Government Initiatives in Telecom Sector:
    • Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI), 2020: It aims  to create public Wi-Fi hotspots, especially in rural and remote areas.
    • Bharatnet Project, 2011: It aims to provide broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats in India.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, 2021: It aims to boost domestic manufacturing
    • Bharat 6G Alliance, 2023: It aims to position India as a global leader in 6G technology R&D.

Iran plans to launch “new and advanced” centrifuges in response to a UN nuclear watchdog resolution criticising its lack of cooperation.

  • The resolution, backed by Britain, France, Germany, and the US, was adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

About Uranium Enrichment

  • Uranium enrichment is the process of increasing the concentration of uranium-235 (U-235) in natural uranium. 
    • This is done to create nuclear fuel for power reactors, which require uranium with a concentration of 2–5% U-235.
    • Composition of Natural Uranium:  99.3% U-238 & 0.7% U-235
  • Natural Isotopes: Uranium-234 (U-234), Uranium-235 (U-235) and Uranium-238 (U-238) 
  • Occurrence:  U-235 and U-238 occur naturally in nearly all rock, soil, and water. 
    • U-238 is the most abundant form in the environment. 
  • Types of Enriched Uranium:
    • Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU): U-235 concentration is below 20% and is used as fuel in commercial nuclear power reactors
    • Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU):  U-235 concentration is above 20% and is historically used for military applications, including nuclear weapons.

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Centrifuge & its Working

  • Centrifuge: These are machines that enrich uranium transformed into gas by rotating it at very high speed, increasing the proportion of fissile isotope material (U-235).
  • Key Components:
    • Rotor: A tube that spins rapidly (up to 60,000 rpm).
    • Uranium Hexafluoride (UF₆) → Uranium in gaseous form is fed into the centrifuge

Uranium Deposits in India

  • First Uranium Deposit was  discovered in 1951 inJaduguda, Singhbhum Thrust Belt, Jharkhand.
  • Other Significant Uranium Deposits: 
    • Andhra Pradesh: Cuddapah Basin 
    • Meghalaya: Sandstone-type uranium deposits are found in the form of  Domiasiat, Wahkhyn, & Mawsynram (Mahadek Basin).
    • Potential Areas:  Regions in Rajasthan, Karnataka, & Chhattisgarh 

About International Atomic Energy Agency

  • It is the international centre for cooperation in the nuclear field.
  • It is known as the world’s “Atoms for Peace and Development” organisation within the United Nations.
  • Establishment: In 1957
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
  • It reports to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and Security Council (UNSC).

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  • Purpose: 
    • Promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
    • Aims to prevent the use of nuclear energy for military purposes, including nuclear weapons.
  • Functions:
    • Collaborates with Member States & partners worldwide to ensure the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.
    • Implements nuclear safeguards and  verify peaceful nuclear activities & prevent their diversion to weapons programs.
    • Enforces comprehensive safeguards agreements under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
    • Facilitates the exchange of scientific & technical information among its Member States.
    • Strengthens capacities to respond to nuclear and radiological incidents to minimize their impact.

The Supreme Court stayed the disqualification of   six Himachal Pradesh MLAs who were appointed as Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPS) in 2023 by providing them temporary relief. 

Disqualification Proceedings Against MLAs

Disqualification proceedings against Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) can arise due to various reasons, including holding an office of profit, defection, or other violations of constitutional provisions.

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Provisions for Disqualification of a Member of the Legislative Assembly

  • Constitutional Provisions (Article 191)
    • A person can be disqualified if:
    • Holding an Office of Profit: They hold a government position that earns profit unless exempted by state law.
    • Mental Fitness: They are declared mentally unfit by a court.
    • Insolvency: They are declared insolvent and have not cleared it.
    • Citizenship: They are not an Indian citizen, have taken foreign citizenship, or are loyal to another country.
    • Parliament’s Laws: Disqualified under any law made by Parliament.
  • Anti-Defection Law (Schedule 10)
    • The Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution outlines rules for disqualifying members of Parliament and State Legislatures on grounds of defection.
    • Introduced through the 52nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1985, it is commonly referred to as the Anti-Defection Act.
    • Grounds for Disqualification
      • Voluntary Resignation
        • A member is disqualified if they voluntarily gives up his party membership
      • Voting Against Party Directives
        • Members are disqualified if they vote or abstain from voting against their party’s instructions without prior approval.
      • Independently Elected Members
        • An independent member who joins any political party after election will face disqualification.
      • Nominated Members
        • A nominated member joining a political party after six months from their nomination will be disqualified.
    • Decision Authority
      • The Speaker or Chairman of the respective House decides on disqualification matters.
      • Their decision is considered final.
      • Proceedings

Exceptions

  • Merger: If a member’s original political party merges with another party and at least two-thirds of its members agree to the merger, they are exempted from disqualification.
  • Presiding Officer: The Speaker or Chairman is exempted from disqualification if they voluntarily give up the party membership to perform their duties impartially.
  • Preventive Detention: Being detained under preventive detention laws does not lead to disqualification.
  • Stay on Conviction: Disqualification can be avoided if the conviction (not just the sentence) is stayed or overturned by a higher court.

        • Disqualification-related proceedings under this Schedule are treated as legislative proceedings of Parliament or the State Legislature.
  • Disqualification Under Parliamentary Law: Rules under the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1951
    • Disqualification for Conviction
      • A legislator convicted under the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA), 1988:
        • Punishment is limited to a fine Only: Disqualified for six years from the date of conviction.
        • Imprisonment:
          • Disqualified from the date of conviction until the imprisonment ends.

  • Authority to Decide Disqualification
    • Governor’s Role
      • The Governor makes the final decision on disqualification (except for anti-defection cases).
      • The Governor must seek and follow the Election Commission of India’s opinion.
    • Speaker’s Role Under the Tenth Schedule
      • The Speaker decides on disqualification cases related to defection under the Anti-Defection Act.
      • Judicial Review of Speaker’s Decision
    • In 1992, the Supreme Court ruled that the Speaker’s decision on disqualification under the Tenth Schedule is subject to judicial review.

          • Plus, an additional six years after release.
    • Other Grounds for Disqualification
      • Found guilty of election offences or corrupt practices during elections.
      • Dismissed from government service for corruption or disloyalty to the state.
      • Convicted for:
        • Promoting enmity between groups.
        • Bribery or similar crimes.
      • Failed to submit election expense accounts within the required time.
      • Holding an interest in government contracts, works, or services.
      • Being a director, managing agent, or holding an office of profit in a government-owned corporation with at least 25% government shareholding.
      • Punished for social crimes such as:
        • Untouchability.
        • Dowry practices.
        • Sati rituals.

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How Disqualification is Different from Suspension?

Action Definition Maximum Duration Applicable Rules
Disqualification Permanent removal of membership due to severe misconduct or violation of constitutional provisions or laws. Permanent Constitution of India, Representation of the People Act, 1951, and specific rules of Parliament and State Assemblies
Suspension Temporary removal of membership due to disorderly conduct or willful obstruction of the House’s proceedings. “For five consecutive sittings or Remainder of the session Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha (Rules 373, 374, 374A) and Rajya Sabha (Rules 255, 256), and similar rules in State Assemblies

Russia’s nuclear weapons policy has been updated by its President Vladimir Putin.

About The New Doctrine

  • Background: Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine comes in the wake of its war with Ukraine where recently Ukraine has fired US-supplied ATACMS missiles into Russia for the first time in the war.
    • The Biden administration of USA has allowed Ukraine to use Long range American weapons for limited strikes against Russia.
  • Aimed At: The updates expand the number of countries and coalitions, and the kinds of military threats, subject to a possible nuclear response.
  • Scenarios Under which Moscow would Consider a Nuclear Response: 
    • Nuclear Deterrence:  Any aggression against Russia by a non-nuclear state that is carried out with the participation or support of a nuclear state will be considered a joint attack.
    • Large scale Attack: If Russia perceives the launch of a massive cross-border air attack on it using planes, missiles and drones. 
    • Expanding Nuclear Umbrella: Russia has officially placed close ally Belarus under its nuclear umbrella. 
    • In Response to a Conventional Attack: Nuclear weapons may be used in the event of a conventional attack also that “creates a critical threat to sovereignty or territorial integrity”. 
    • Military Coalitions against Russia: If military coalitions (new or existing) move enemy military infrastructure closer to Russia’s borders and plans to carry out large-scale military exercises near Russia’s borders.

About Nuclear Doctrine

  • Nuclear doctrines elucidate the goals and missions that will guide the deployment and use of nuclear weapons by a country both during peace and war by determining each Nuclear Weapon States’ (NWS) force structure, declaratory policy and diplomacy.
  • Goals of Nuclear Doctrine: It mainly includes deterrence, target destruction, assurance of allies, and a hedge against an uncertain future. 

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India’s Nuclear Doctrine

  • India declared itself to officially possess nuclear weapons in 1998 when it conducted a series of nuclear test at Pokhran, Rajasthan.
  • Establishment: India released its official nuclear doctrine in 2003 based on a 1999 draft report by National Security Advisory Board headed by nuclear strategist K Subrahmanyam.
  • Authorisation: Nuclear retaliatory attacks can only be authorised by the civilian political leadership through the Nuclear Command Authority.
    • The Nuclear Command Authority: It comprises of a Political Council and an Executive Council. 
      • The Political Council: It is chaired by the Prime Minister and is the sole body to authorize the use of nuclear weapons.
      • The Executive Council: It is chaired by the National Security Advisor and executes the directives given to it by the Political Council.
  • Pillars:
    • Credible Deterrance: Maintaining Nuclear Weapons stock is only for building and maintaining a credible minimum deterrence.
    • No First Use Principle: Nuclear weapons will only be used in retaliation against a nuclear attack on Indian territory or on Indian forces anywhere and Non-use of nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states
      • Exception: In the event of a major attack against India, or Indian forces anywhere, by biological or chemical weapons, India will retain the option of retaliating with nuclear weapons.
    • Nuclear Retaliation: A Nuclear Retaliation would be massive to a first strike and designed to inflict unbearable and  unacceptable damage.
    • Nuclear Disarmament: India is committed to the goal of a nuclear weapon free world, through global, verifiable and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament.
    • Committed to Non Proliferation: moratorium on nuclear tests, continuance of strict controls on export of nuclear and missile related materials and technologies and participation in the Fissile Material Cutoff Treaty negotiations.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
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