Dec 16 2024

As India seeks to expand its manufacturing and technological capability, critical minerals will become vital to fulfil this ambition.

  • To address India’s mineral security challenge, which is aimed at reducing its strategic vulnerability, New Delhi has started an attempt to engage in mineral diplomacy.

About Critical Minerals

  • Definition: These are the minerals which are essential for economic development and national security but the scarcity and limitation of its geographical availability leading to supply chain vulnerability and disruption constitute its criticality.
  • Critical MineralsMajor Critical Minerals: The Report of the Committee on Identification of Critical Minerals constituted by Ministry of Mines has identified 30 critical minerals,
    • Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, PGE, Phosphorous, Potash, REE, Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.
  • Top Producers: According to the International Energy Agency, the major producers of critical minerals are China, Congo, Chile, Indonesia, South Africa, and Australia. 
    • China has global dominance in terms of processing.

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  • Usage: 
    • Advanced Electronics: They are critical for making semiconductors and high-end electronics manufacturing.
    • Clean Energy Technology: These minerals are an essential component in many clean energy technologies, from wind turbines and solar panels to electric vehicles.
    • Critical MineralsTransport and Communications: They are also used in manufacturing fighter jets, drones, and radio sets, Aircrafts and mainly power the transition to Electric Vehicles
    • Diverse Sectors: To manufacture advanced technologies in diverse sectors such as mobile phones, tablets, electric vehicles, solar panels, wind turbines, fibre optic cables, and defence and medical applications.
    • Battery and Storage Technology: These minerals are critical to develop the storage technology in terms of advancements in battery technology like Lithium-Ion.
  • Components of Value Chain:
    • Geoscience and Exploration
    • Upstream: Mining and Extraction
    • Midstream: Processing, Refining and Metallurgy
    • Downstream: Component Manufacturing and Clean Digital Advanced Technology production 
      • Example: Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEV) Manufacturing, Semiconductors, chips etc.
    • Material Recovery and Recycling

Importance of Critical Minerals

  • Key Role in Green Energy Transition: Essential for technologies like batteries (lithium, cobalt), solar panels (silicon, silver), and wind turbines (rare earth elements).
    • As per the International Energy Agency (IEA), lithium demand rose by 30% in 2023, while demand for nickel, cobalt, and graphite grew 8–15%.
  • Global Climate Goals: Critical to achieving the net-zero emissions target and limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
    • Projections: By 2040, demand is expected to increase:
      • Lithium (8x), graphite (4x), cobalt, nickel, and rare earths (2x).
  • Economic and Strategic Importance: Aggregate global value of critical minerals pegged at $325 billion in 2023.
    • Crucial for manufacturing defense equipment, EVs, and semiconductors.

Reserves of Critical Minerals in India

  • Graphite: India has 9 million tonnes of reserves, with production reported from 12 mines.
    • Tamil Nadu was the leading producer of graphite in India in 2021-22, accounting for 63% of the total output. Odisha was the second leading producer.
    • Arunachal Pradesh has the highest graphite reserves in India, with 43% of the country’s total resources.
  • Lithium: India’s first lithium reserves were discovered in Jammu and Kashmir in 1999
    • The Geological Survey of India (GSI) also discovered lithium reserves in Rajasthan’s Degana, which are believed to be larger than the reserves in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Ilmenite (Titanium): India holds 11% of global deposits, yet imports $1 billion worth of titanium dioxide annually.
    • Odisha is the leading producer of ilmenite in India, contributing 60% of the country’s total production in 2021-22. 
    • Kerala and Tamil Nadu are the second and third largest producers, respectively. 
  • Phosphorous: Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are the two states in India that produce the most phosphate rocks:
    • Rajasthan: 31% of India’s total rock phosphate reserves and resources
    • Madhya Pradesh: 19% of India’s total rock phosphate reserves and resources 
  • Potash: Rajasthan is the highest producer of potash in India, contributing 91% of the country’s total potash resources. 
    • The state has an estimated 2.4 billion tons of potash reserves, which is about 90% of India’s total estimated reserves.
    • Other Major reserves are located in Madhya Pradesh (Panna district), and Uttar Pradesh (Sonbhadra and Chitrakoot districts).
  • Rare Earth Elements (REE): India has an estimated 11.93 million tonnes of monazite from beach sand containing 55–65% rare earth oxides.
    • Andhra Pradesh is the state in India with the highest resources of rare earth elements (REEs), with 3.69 million tonnes.
    • Other states with REE resources include: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha.
  • Platinum Group Elements (PGE): About 15.7 tonnes of PGE are located in Odisha (Nilgiri, Boula-Nuasahi, Sukinda) and Karnataka (Hanumalpura).

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About Rare Earth (RE)

Critical Minerals

  • Rare Earth (RE) are an essential part of many high-tech devices and comprises 17 elements which are classified as light RE elements (LREE) and heavy RE elements (HREE) including, 
    • The 15 Lanthanides: Atomic numbers 57 ( Lanthanum)  to 71 in the periodic table
    • Scandium (atomic number 21) 
    • Yttrium (39). 
  • Application In: Computer hard drives, cellular telephones, flat-screen monitors and televisions, and electric and hybrid vehicles. 
  • Availability: India has the world’s fifth-largest reserves of rare earth elements, nearly twice as much as Australia.
    • LREEs available in India: Lanthanum, Cerium, Neodymium, Praseodymium and Samarium, etc. 
    • HREEs not Available in India:  Dysprosium, Terbium, and Europium are not available in Indian deposits in extractable quantities. 

Import Dependency of Critical Minerals

  • Lithium: India is 100% import-dependent for lithium, primarily sourced from Chile, Russia, and China.
  • Cobalt: Completely imported, with key sources being China, Belgium, and Japan.
  • Nickel: 100% imported from countries such as Sweden, China, and Indonesia.
  • Vanadium: Fully imported, mainly from Kuwait, Germany, and South Africa.
  • Germanium: Entirely imported from China, South Africa, and France.
  • Rhenium: India relies on imports from Russia, the UK, and China.
  • Beryllium and Tantalum: Fully imported, with no domestic reserves reported.
  • Silicon: India produces limited quantities and relies heavily on imports from China, Malaysia, and Norway.

Government  Initiatives for Production of Critical Minerals

  • National Critical Minerals Mission (2024): The National Critical Minerals Mission, announced in Union Budget 2024-25, is aimed at reinforcing India’s Critical Mineral value chain across all stages – from exploration and mining to beneficiation, processing, and recovery from end-of-life products. 
    • The mission’s goal is to ensure self-sufficiency in fulfilling the industrial demands for critical minerals.
    • The mission focuses on boosting domestic exploration and incentivizing private sector participation.
  • Amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act (2023): The government has amended the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 to allow the auction of critical mineral blocks. The first auction was held in November 2023 for 20 blocks. 
    • These amendments aim to enhance private sector involvement in exploration and mining.
    • The streamlined auction process and introduction of Exploration Licenses aim to facilitate tapping into deep-seated and untapped mineral reserves.
  • Strengthening Refining and Processing Capabilities: India has initiated efforts to build domestic refining and processing infrastructure to reduce its reliance on imports for downstream processes.
    • During 2024, under the R & D Component of Science and Technology Programme of the Ministry of Mines, 10 R & D Projects related to extraction, recovery and recycling of critical minerals have been approved for taking up through various Indian Institutes and research laboratories.

India’s Mineral Diplomacy Strategy

India is actively involved in building partnerships with resource rich countries to secure critical minerals.

  • Bilateral Partnerships:
    • Australia: In March 2022, KABIL signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Australia for a critical mineral investment partnership and established the Australia-India Critical Minerals Research Hub. 
      • These initiatives focus on lithium and cobalt projects and research on sustainable mining.
    • Latin America (Argentina, Chile, Bolivia): India signed a $24 million lithium exploration pact with a state-owned enterprise in Argentina in January 2024 for five lithium brine blocks.
      • KABIL is actively working on securing mineral supplies by facilitating the acquisition of assets in Bolivia and Chile
    • United States: India is negotiating a pact to enhance supply chains for cobalt, lithium, nickel, and rare earth elements under the U.S.-led Mineral Security Partnership (MSP).

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About Minerals Security Partnership (MSP)

  • It is a global initiative to bolster critical mineral supply chains also known as the critical minerals alliance.
  • Establishment: The Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) was officially announced at the annual Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention in Toronto, Canada in June 2022.
    • It is the largest mining event in the world. 
  • Founding Members: The United States, Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the European Commission
    • India joined the initiative in June of 2023  
  • Aim: To accelerate the development of sustainable critical energy minerals supply chains via a public-private partnership to facilitate targeted financial and diplomatic support for strategic projects along the value chain. 

  • Canada and Brazil: India is exploring cooperation in mining and critical mineral supply chains through bilateral engagements.
  • Collaboration with Central Asia: In November 2024, India and Kazakhstan formed a joint venture called IREUK Titanium Limited to produce titanium slag in India.
    • India has proposed the establishment of an India-Central Asia Rare Earths Forum to leverage the region’s rich resource base.
  • Multilateral Partnerships:
    • Mineral Security Partnership (MSP): India joined as the 14th member in June 2023 to promote resilient and responsible critical mineral supply chains globally. 
    • Quad and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF): India participates in these frameworks to strengthen clean energy technologies and critical mineral supply chain resilience.
    • G20 and G7: India has actively advocated for principles ensuring equitable and resilient supply chains for critical minerals through these platforms.

About KABIL

  • KABIL stands for Khanij Bidesh India Limited, a joint venture company that was formed to ensure a reliable supply of critical minerals to India. 
  • KABIL was incorporated in 2019 under the Companies Act of 2013. 
  • It is a joint venture between three government enterprises:
    • National Aluminium Company Ltd. (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), and Mineral Exploration & Consultancy Limited (MECL).

    • International Energy Agency: India’s Ministry of Mines signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Energy Agency to streamline policies, regulations, and investment strategies for the critical minerals sector in line with global best practices.
  • Engagement with the Global South:
    • India has initiated partnerships with African nations, including Zambia, Congo, and Namibia, for sourcing minerals like copper and cobalt.
    • These collaborations emphasize ethical sourcing, fair practices, and diversifying mineral supply chains.

Challenges in India’s Mineral Diplomacy

  • Heavy Import Dependence: India is almost entirely dependent on imports for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
    • In FY 2023-24, India spent over ₹34,000 crores on importing lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper, with 70–80% of lithium imports coming from China.
    • India procured 50,000 tonnes of amorphous graphite and 5,300 tonnes of nickel oxide from China between 2017 and 2023.
  • China’s Dominance in Supply Chains: China controls approximately 60% of global production and 85% of processing capacity for critical minerals, including rare earths, lithium, and cobalt.
    • China processes 59% of lithium and 73% of cobalt globally, dominating the midstream and downstream value chains.
    • In 2023, China imposed export restrictions on graphite and other minerals, disrupting global supply chains.
  • Lack of Domestic Processing Capabilities: India lacks the infrastructure for refining and processing critical minerals, which are essential for downstream industries.
    • Most mineral blocks auctioned in India remain unsold due to insufficient domestic processing technologies.
  • Technological and R&D Deficits: There is limited investment in research and development for extraction and refining technologies.
    • Deep-seated minerals like cobalt and nickel remain unexplored in India due to the absence of advanced mining techniques.
  • Geopolitical Vulnerabilities: Dependence on a few countries for critical minerals exposes India to supply disruptions due to geopolitical tensions.
    • During the 2010 China-Japan dispute, China imposed export bans on rare earths, severely impacting Japan’s tech industry.
    • The ongoing U.S.-China rivalry has seen tit-for-tat restrictions on critical mineral exports, highlighting the risks of concentrated supply chains.
  • Insufficient Private Sector Participation: The private sector’s involvement in exploration and processing is limited due to unclear policies and high risks.
    • Despite amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act in 2023, auctions for critical mineral blocks failed to attract sufficient private sector interest.
  • Environmental and Ethical Concerns in Sourcing: Global mining practices often face scrutiny for human rights violations and environmental degradation.
    • Allegations against Chinese firms in the Democratic Republic of Congo include child labor and forced evictions in cobalt mining operations.

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Way forward

  • Policy Reforms and Incentives: India needs to accelerate domestic mining and processing capabilities through viability gap funding and increased R&D investments.
    • Policies should provide clear incentives for private sector engagement across the critical mineral value chain.
  • Diversification of Supply Sources: India must reduce its reliance on China by strengthening partnerships with countries in Latin America, Africa, and Australia.
    • The country should explore alternative sources for synthetic graphite, including Mozambique, Madagascar, and Brazil.
  • Strengthening Multilateral Engagements: India should take a leading role in global dialogues for equitable access to critical minerals through frameworks like MSP and Quad.
    • Multilateral engagements must focus on building resilient and sustainable supply chains for these vital resources.
  • Technological and R&D Collaboration: India should partner with advanced economies like the United States and Japan to acquire cutting-edge refining and recycling technologies.
    • Investments in recycling technologies can help reduce dependency on raw material imports and create a circular economy for critical minerals.
  • ESG (environmental, social, and governance) compliance: India must ensure ESG (environmental, social, and governance) compliance in its sourcing practices, especially in partnerships with countries like Congo and South American nations.

Conclusion

Mineral diplomacy is essential for India’s economic development and strategic autonomy. Addressing challenges related to private sector participation, diplomatic capacity, and sustainable partnerships is crucial for strengthening India’s mineral security efforts. With a comprehensive and forward-looking approach, India can achieve long-term self-reliance in critical minerals.

A report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, titled ‘The Global Status of Salt-Affected Soils’, reveals that nearly 1.4 billion hectares of land, or 10.7 percent of the global land area, is affected by salinity.

About Salt-Affected Soils 

  • Salt-affected soils are a specific group of soils that have elevated amounts of soluble salts (saline soils) or exchangeable sodium (sodic soils) that adversely affect the growth of most plants.

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Types of Salt-Affected Soils

  • Saline Soils: Saline soil is defined as soil that has accumulated water-soluble salts such as chloride, sulphates, and carbonates. Saline soils tend to dominate in arid and semi-arid regions.
    • The soils have a stable structure.
    • Improving drainage, leaching of salts are some of the solutions for treating Saline soils.

  • Soil Salinisation refers to the process by which soluble salts accumulate in the soil.
  • Soil Sodification is the process in which sodium ions accumulate on soil particles, displacing essential nutrients such as calcium and magnesium.

  • Sodic/ Alkali Soils: Sodic soils are formed when sodium ions are relatively higher than the other cations, impacting the soil structure. 
    • Sodic soils tend to dominate in semi-arid and sub-humid regions.
    • The soils have an unstable structure.
    • Soil amendments like addition of gypsum can improve sodic soil structure.

About the Global Status of Salt-Affected Soils Report

  • The ‘Global Status of Salt-Affected Soils’ is FAO’s first major global assessment of salt-affected soils in 50 years. 
  • The report was launched at the International Soil and Water Forum 2024 held in Bangkok.
  • The event was co-organised by the FAO and Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives.

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Key Findings of FAO’s Report on Salt-Affected Soils

  • Impact of Soil Salinity: An additional 1 billion hectares are at risk due to climate change and poor land management.
    • Salinity stress can reduce crop yields (e.g., rice and beans) by up to 70%, threatening global food security.
  • Countries with the Largest Affected Areas: Australia (357 million ha), Argentina (153 million ha), Kazakhstan (94 million ha), Russia (77 million ha), and the U.S. (73.4 million ha).
  • Countries with the Highest Proportional Impact: Oman (93.5% of land), Uzbekistan (92.9%), and Jordan (90.6%).
  • Irrigated and Rainfed Cropland:
    • FAO’s global map of salt-affected soils reveals that 10% of irrigated cropland and 10% of rainfed cropland are currently impacted by salinity.This poses a significant threat to global food security.

International Efforts:

  • Global Soil Doctors Programme: It is a programme led by the FAO
    • It is a farmer-to-farmer training initiative that aims to build the capacity of farmers on sustainable soil management while supporting national governments and stakeholders in addressing the needs of their rural communities
    • The trained persons recognised as “Soil Doctors” are selected to support and educate other farmers to diagnose and heal soils in their local community.
  • Global Soil Partnerships (GSP): It was established in 2012 as a mechanism to develop a strong interactive partnership, between all stakeholders involved with soils.

  • Status of salt-affected soils in India: 
    • Extent: India has 6.72 million ha of salt-affected soils (2.1% of its total land area).
      • Saline soils: 2.95 million ha.
      • Sodic soils: 3.77 million ha.
    • Most Affected States: Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Rajasthan made up about 75 per cent of the country’s salt-affected soils. 
    • Impact on Agriculture:
      • 20% of India’s agricultural land is impacted, especially in Jaisalmer, Gujarat coastline, and the Ganges basin.
      • The most cultivated crops grown on saline and sodic soils in India were rice, cotton, barley, sorghum and millets.
      • Almost 17 percent of the country’s irrigated agriculture had experienced secondary salinisation as a result of the use of brackish irrigation water.
  • Causes of Soil Salinisation
    • Natural Causes: Climate change-induced aridity and freshwater scarcity.
      • Rising sea levels and thawing permafrost.
      • Irrigated soils in low rainfall regions also develop soil salinity and alkalinity due to accumulation of salts in surface layers through evaporating water.
    • Human-Induced Factors: Poor-quality irrigation water, inadequate drainage, and overuse of fertilisers.
      • Deforestation and removal of deep-rooted vegetation.
      • Overexploitation of aquifers and mining activities.
  • Strategies for Management of Salt Affected Soils: The report offered a series of strategies for sustainable management of salt-affected soils to meet growing food demands. These were:
    • Mitigation: mulching, using interlayers of loose material, installing drainage systems and improving crop rotations
    • Adaptation: breeding salt-tolerant plants which flourish in mangrove swamps, tropical sand and cliff shorelines, and even salt deserts
    • Bioremediation: using bacteria, fungi, plants or animals to remove, destroy or sequester hazardous substances from the environment.
  • Policy Recommendations
    • Develop legal frameworks for safeguarding natural saline ecosystems.
    • Promote sustainable soil management practices in irrigation areas at risk of salinization.

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Measures Taken For Tackling Soil Salinity In India

  • Soil Health Card (SHC) is a printed report of a particular land holding which gives information on 12 soil parameters along with recommendation in dosage of nutrients to be utilised for different crops.
    • The Government issues individual soil cards to farmers once every 3 years.
    • The soil samples are tested for pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Organic Carbon (OC), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Sulphur (S), Zinc (Zn), Boron (B), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Copper (Cu) of farm holdings.
    • The card displays farmer’s detail, soil sample detail, soil test results and general recommendations.
  • Promotion of Digital Agriculture: Digital agriculture refers to the integration of advanced technologies like IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), big data, and machine learning into farming practices to optimize productivity, sustainability, and resource management.
    • Example: Smart irrigation systems integrate sensors and weather data to optimize water usage based on soil salinity levels, preventing over-irrigation and conserving water while managing soil salinity.

Way Forward

  • Biodrainage: It is a technique used to lower groundwater levels in waterlogged areas by planting tree species that remove excess water through transpiration. 
    • This preventive method helps avoid salinity and waterlogging issues in canal command areas, especially when soils are still in the process of salinization. 
    • However, if the soils are already salinized it has limited scope. 
    • Promising species for biodrainage include Eucalyptus, Populus, Casuarina, and Bambusa.
  • Biosaline Agriculture: It involves using salt-tolerant plants to manage saline soils and reclaim degraded land. 
    • Example: Planting of Leptochloa fusca, Prosopis juliflora, and Acacia nilotica.
  • Updation of Groundwater Quality Map: The existing groundwater quality map needs to be updated to reflect current conditions, especially with regard to over-pumping in good-quality zones and limited extraction from poor-quality areas
  • Sustaining Productivity in Reclaimed Areas: Through conservation agricultural practices including enhanced use of green manuring / organic manures needs promotion.  

The growing reliance on space technologies for climate monitoring and other critical functions has heightened concerns about the environmental impact of space activities, particularly satellite interference and orbital debris.

Background

  • According to the European Space Agency, as of September 2024, there had been around 6,740 rocket launches since 1957 that placed 19,590 satellites in orbit. 
  • Around 13,230 are still in space and of them 10,200 are still functional.

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About Climate Footprint

  • A climate footprint refers to the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted into the atmosphere as a result of human activities.
  • It is a measure of how much a particular activity, product, or organisation contributes to global warming and climate change.

Efforts of Space Agencies in Reducing Climate Footprint:

  • National Aeronautics and Space Administration, USA and European Space Agency (ESA)  have larger emissions due to frequent missions and larger-scale operations. 
    • NASA is focusing on reusable rockets e.g., SpaceX collaboration.
    • ESA is engaged in satellite missions related to climate monitoring. e.g., Copernicus program.
  • Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA):  JAXA’s Earth observation satellites, such as the GOSAT (Greenhouse gases Observing Satellite), play a critical role in climate monitoring and addressing climate change.
    • The Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) is the world’s first spacecraft to measure the concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane, the two major greenhouse gases.
  • ISRO has a smaller footprint but growing emissions due to expanding space activities.
    • It  is developing green propellants for use in future rocket & satellite propulsion systems.

Environmental Impact of Space Activities

  • Emissions of Greenhouse Gases: Every rocket launch emits carbon dioxide, black carbon, and water vapor, contributing to global warming.
    • Black Carbon’s Role: Black carbon absorbs sunlight 500 times more effectively than carbon dioxide, significantly amplifying the warming effect.
    • Growing Commercial Launches: Increased frequency of rocket launches intensifies these emissions, exacerbating their cumulative impact on the climate.
  • Ozone Layer Depletion: Rocket propellants, especially those using chlorine-based chemicals, deplete the ozone layer at high altitudes, leading to increased ultraviolet radiation exposure on Earth.
    • Ozone depletion affects atmospheric circulation, contributing to global climate changes.
  • Harmful Satellite Debris: When satellites burn up in the atmosphere at the end of their missions, they release “satellite ash” in the middle atmospheric layers.
    • This metallic ash could disrupt atmospheric composition and alter climate patterns.
  • Carbon Footprint of Satellite Production and Operations
    • Energy-Intensive Manufacturing: Satellite production involves energy-heavy processes requiring metals and composite materials, resulting in significant carbon emissions.
    • In-Orbit Emissions: Satellite propulsion systems emit gases while adjusting location and orientation, adding to atmospheric pollution.
  • Future Concerns with Space Mining: Space mining, such as extracting minerals from asteroids, could lead to intensified industrial activities both in space and on Earth.
    • Though not yet operational, space mining could have profound ecological consequences in the future.

About Orbital Debris

  • Definition: Orbital debris, or space junk, includes defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from satellite break-ups in low Earth orbit (LEO).
  • Scale of the Problem
    • Fragmentation Events: Over 650 fragmentation events (break-ups, explosions, and collisions) have been recorded.
    • Mass of Space Objects: The total mass of all objects in orbit exceeds 13,000 tonnes.
    • High-Speed Movement: Debris can travel at speeds of up to 29,000 km/hr, making even tiny fragments highly destructive.
  • Orbital Space as a Limited Resource
    • Pollution in Space: Non-functional objects in orbit occupy valuable space, constituting a form of pollution similar to that on Earth.
    • Risk Amplification: The growing number of non-functional objects increases the likelihood of collisions, creating more debris in a cascading effect.
  • Risks to Satellites and Space Missions
    • Satellite Damage: High-speed collisions can destroy satellite components critical for communication, navigation, and climate monitoring.
    • Increased Costs: Operators must invest in shielding technologies.
      • Costly manoeuvres are required to avoid collisions, raising mission expenses.
    • Threat to the International Space Station (ISS): The ISS frequently adjusts its orbit to avoid collisions with debris, highlighting the risks to human missions.
  • Interference with Scientific Data Collection
    • Impact on Earth Observation: Orbital debris interferes with data collection for disaster tracking, weather monitoring, and other Earth-related observations.
    • Radio Signal Disruption: Debris can interfere with radio waves, hampering the efficiency of scientific studies.

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Barriers to Space-Sector Sustainability

  • Absence of Clear Guidelines: The space sector lacks comprehensive international regulations to control emissions and manage debris.
    • Without standards, emissions from rockets and satellites risk becoming overlooked contributors to global warming.
  • Outside Global Agreements: Space activities currently fall outside international sustainability instruments like the Paris Agreement

India and Sustainable Space

  • Debris Free Space Missions (DFSM) by 2030: India aims to eliminate debris from its space missions, contributing to long-term space sustainability.
  • End-of-Life Protocols for Satellites: ISRO ensures satellites are maneuvered to lower orbits for controlled re-entry or moved to graveyard orbits sufficiently above the GEO region after mission completion to prevent them from becoming debris.
  • Compliance with International guidelines: India aligns with the UN’s Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines and the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) space debris measures, ensuring responsible space operations and the long-term sustainability of its space activities. 
    • It actively participates in international frameworks like COPUOS to enhance space traffic management and debris reduction efforts.

  • Overcrowding of Low Earth Orbit (LEO): The rising number of satellites and debris in LEO increases collision risks, making missions more expensive and complex.
    • Overcrowding diminishes space’s potential as a shared global resource, restricting equitable access.
  • Insufficient International Cooperation: Collaboration through organizations like the Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space (COPUOS) is essential to establish binding and enforceable sustainability standards.
    • Without unified action, sustainability challenges in space remain unresolved.
      • The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) is a United Nations body established in 1959 to promote international cooperation in the peaceful use of outer space.
  • Non Binding provisions of the Outer Space Treaty (1967): The Outer Space Treaty promotes responsible use of space but lacks binding clauses to address environmental concerns.
    • The Outer Space Treaty serves as the foundation of international space law, promoting peaceful uses of outer space and banning the placement of weapons in space.

Measures To Make Space Exploration More Sustainable

  • Adoption of Reusable Rockets: Reusable rockets like those by SpaceX and Blue Origin lower manufacturing waste and reduce costs by enabling multiple uses of rocket components.
    • However, associated challenges include:
      • Heavier reusable components increase fuel consumption.
      • Limited applicability for high-orbit missions.
      • Wear-and-tear necessitates costly refurbishments, making scalability a challenge.
  • Transition to Cleaner Fuels like liquid hydrogen and/or biofuels: Cleaner alternatives like liquid hydrogen and biofuels can reduce harmful emissions during launches.
    • However, Hydrogen production relies heavily on non-renewable energy, negating its environmental benefits.
    • Cryogenic fuels, though efficient, are expensive and complex to handle, limiting their accessibility to smaller operators.
    • Electric propulsion offers a low-emission alternative, ideal for in-orbit manoeuvres.
      • However, its low thrust restricts its use to specific missions like in-orbit manoeuvres.
  • Use of Biodegradable Satellite Materials: Designing satellites with biodegradable materials could prevent long-term debris accumulation by allowing natural disintegration during re-entry.
    • However, current materials lack the durability needed for extreme space conditions.
      • High development costs and limited adoption slow progress.
  • Deployment of Autonomous Debris Removal (ADR) Technologies: Robotic arms and laser systems can help clean up orbital debris.
    • Challenges: High operational costs and Legal and regulatory uncertainty hinders safe and widespread deployment.
  • Establishment of a Global Traffic System: A global system for real-time monitoring of satellites and debris can optimise orbit use and reduce collisions.
    • However, resistance to data-sharing, including due to security and commercial concerns, and the lack of a unified international authority hinders its establishment.
  • Global Cooperation: International cooperation through bodies like the Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space (COPUOS) is necessary to create enforceable standards in this context.

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Way Forward

  • International Collaboration: Binding agreements via bodies like COPUOS can standardise emission limits, debris mitigation measures, and data-sharing protocols.
  • Prioritising Green Technologies: Governments and private entities can focus funding on:
    • Advanced propulsion systems.
    • ADR technologies.
    • Biodegradable satellite materials.
  • Incentives for Sustainable Practices: Financial rewards, subsidies, or penalties can nudge private players toward adopting sustainable technologies and practices.

Conclusion

Space technology plays a crucial role in climate monitoring and disaster management. However, rising environmental costs, both for Earth’s atmosphere and outer space, require immediate attention and coordinated global action.

India’s imports of Supima cotton, an extra-long staple (ELS) cotton exported by the U.S., have been rising following the removal of import duty on ELS cotton earlier this year.

  • Previously, an 11% import duty on cotton was imposed in the 2021-2022 Union Budget.

Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton

  • ELS cotton refers to cotton fibers with a length exceeding 1 3/8 inches or 34.925 mm.
  • This makes it significantly longer than regular cotton fibers.
  • ELS cotton is prized for its exceptional softness, strength, and uniformity, leading to superior fabric quality. 
  • It’s commonly used in high-end textiles like luxury apparel, fine linens, and medical products.

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Key Highlights on the rise in Import

  • Demand vs. Shortage: India imports 60,000–2,00,000 bales of Supima cotton annually to address a shortage of ELS cotton domestically.
  • Global Pricing Pressure: U.S. Pima cotton farmers are facing challenges breaking even, potentially leading to higher prices to sustain cultivation.
  • Competing Supplies: While U.S. cotton exports to India grew, its market share declined due to increased imports from Australia, Brazil, and West Africa.

About Cotton Cultivation (White-Gold)

Cotton Production

  • Tropical Crop: Cotton is a tropical crop grown during the kharif season in semi-arid regions of India.
  • Temperature and Rainfall: The crop thrives in temperatures ranging between 21°C and 30°C and requires annual rainfall of 50–75 cm.
  • Soil Types: Cotton grows in diverse soils:
    • Well-drained deep alluvial soils in northern India.
    • Variable-depth black clayey soils in central India.
    • Mixed black and red soils in the southern regions.
  • Sensitivity: While cotton exhibits some tolerance to salinity, it is highly sensitive to waterlogging, necessitating well-drained soils.
  • Climate Requirements:
    • Clear skies are essential during the flowering stage.
    • Cotton requires approximately 210 frost-free days and grows well in mineral-rich black lava soil (regur soil).

India’s Position in Cotton Production

  • Global Production: India is the second-largest producer of cotton globally, with an estimated production of 323.11 lakh bales in the 2023-24 season, accounting for 23.83% of the world’s cotton production ( 1429 lakh bales).
  • Area Under Cultivation: India ranks first globally in the area under cotton cultivation, contributing 39% of the world’s total cotton area of 318.8 lakh hectares.
  • Irrigated vs Rain-fed Areas: Around 67% of India’s cotton is grown in rain-fed areas, while 33% is cultivated in irrigated regions.

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State 2020-21 (in Lakh Bales) 2021-22 (in Lakh Bales) 2022-23 (P) (in Lakh Bales)
Maharashtra 101.05 71.18 80.25
Gujarat 72.18 74.82 91.83
Telangana 57.97 60.67 53.25
Rajasthan 32.07 24.81 27.12
Karnataka 23.20 19.50 21.04

Major Cotton-Producing Zones and States in India

  • Largest Producing Zone (2022-23): The Central Zone, comprising Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, is the largest cotton-producing zone in India.
  • Top Producing States: Gujarat is the largest producer of cotton, followed by Maharashtra and Telangana.
  • Zones for Cotton Cultivation:
    • Northern Zone: Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
    • Central Zone: Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.
    • Southern Zone: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
    • Cotton is also cultivated in Odisha and Tamil Nadu.

Types Of Cotton Produced in India:

  • India is unique in cultivating all four cotton species.

Type Native to Feature
Gossypium arboreum India & Pakistan Tree cotton, shorter staple, coarse fiber
Gossypium herbaceum India, Southern Africa & Arabian Peninsula Levant cotton, shorter staple, coarse fiber
Gossypium hirsutum Central America, Mexico Upland cotton, most widely cultivated, 90% of Indian production, basis for Bt cotton
Gossypium barbadense Tropical South America Extra-long staple (ELS), high quality, Pima cotton, used for luxury textiles

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Initiatives of Central Government to Boost Cotton Production

  • PM MITRA: Pradhan Mantri Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel scheme aims to develop world-class textile parks with plug-and-play facilities.
  • PLI Scheme: Production Linked Incentive scheme to boost domestic manufacturing of textiles and apparel.
  • Kasturi Cotton Bharat: Promotes sustainable cotton cultivation practices, focusing on reducing water and pesticide usage.
  • National Technical Textile Mission (NTTM): Encourages the development and production of high-performance technical textiles.
  • Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS): Provides financial assistance for technology upgrades in the textile sector.

The Prime Minister recently inaugurated and launched 167 development projects worth ₹5,500 crore in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, as part of preparations for Maha Kumbh 2025

Key Highlights of PM Address on Maha Kumbh

Maha Kumbh Mela

  • Describing the event as a “Maha Yagya of unity,” the PM highlighted its significance in promoting spiritual, cultural, and social cohesion while showcasing India’s rich traditions to the world.
  • A multilingual AI-powered chatbot, Sah’AI’yak, launched to assist devotees in 11 Indian languages.
  • He emphasized the historical importance of Prayagraj  including its association with Lord Ram’s journey and sites like Akshay Vat and Saraswati Koop.

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About Maha Kumbh Mela

  • The Maha Kumbh Mela is a sacred pilgrimage celebrated four times over 12 years, known as the world’s largest peaceful gathering. 
  • Millions of pilgrims attend to bathe in holy rivers, seeking spiritual liberation and cleansing of sins.
  • Historical Background: The founding myth of the Kumbh Mela points to the Puranas (compilations of ancient legends).
    • It is widely believed that Lord Vishnu (disguised as the enchantress ‘Mohini’) whisked the Kumbh out of the grasp of the covetous demons who had tried to claim it.
  • The origins of the Kumbh Mela date back thousands of years, with references from the Maurya and Gupta periods (4th century BCE to 6th century CE).
    • It was supported by royal dynasties such as the Cholas, Vijayanagar Empire, Delhi Sultanate, and Mughals, including Emperor Akbar.
  • The origin of Maha Kumbh Mela was transcribed by the 8th-century philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.
  • Documented by British administrators like James Prinsep in the 19th century, it gained greater significance post-independence, symbolizing unity and cultural heritage.
  • Recognized by UNESCO in 2017 as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, it remains a testament to India’s enduring traditions.

Types of Kumbh Melas in India

India hosts four types of Kumbh Melas, each occurring at different sacred locations:

Type of Kumbh Mela Frequency Locations Significance
Maha Kumbh Mela It comes in every 144

years or after 12 Purna (Complete) Kumbh Mela.

Prayagraj Largest and most significant of all.
Ardh Kumbh Mela Every 6 years Prayagraj, Haridwar Mid-point gathering between Maha Kumbhs.
Purna Kumbh Mela Every 12 years Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik Major event held at other sacred locations.
Magh Mela Annually Prayagraj Smaller version of Maha Kumbh, celebrated annually.

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Significance of Maha Kumbh 2025

  • Unity in Diversity: Maha Kumbh brings together millions of people from varied castes, creeds, and walks of life, creating a platform for social harmony and cultural exchange.
  • Economic Impact: The event fosters economic empowerment through tourism, local businesses, and employment opportunities.
    • The 45-day mega religious event is expected to be thrice the size and budget of the 2012 Maha Kumbh
  • Global Spiritual Event: With millions of devotees attending daily, Maha Kumbh is one of the largest gatherings in the world, symbolizing India’s spiritual prominence.
  • Historic and Mythological Relevance: Prayagraj, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, holds immense spiritual importance, often referred to as the “king of pilgrimage sites” in Indian scriptures.

Recently the government launched a major policy called ‘Jalvahak’ to promote cargo movement via inland waterways on National Waterways (NW) along the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Barak rivers.

About the Jalvahak Scheme

  • The Jalvahak Scheme is a joint initiative of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Inland and Coastal Shipping Ltd (ICSL), a fully-owned subsidiary of the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd (SCIL).
  • Aim: To unlock the trade potential of inland waterways, reduce logistics costs, decongest road and rail networks, and promote sustainable transportation.
  • Eligibility: Cargo owners transporting goods over distances exceeding 300 km via waterways will be eligible for up to 35% reimbursement of operating costs incurred on National Waterways 1 (Ganga River), National Waterways 2 (Brahmaputra River), and National Waterways 16 (Barak River) through the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) route.
  • The scheme is initially valid for three years.

About Inland Waterways Authority of India

  • The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) was established by the Government of India in 1986 to regulate and develop inland waterways for shipping and navigation.
  • It undertakes the development and maintenance of inland water transport (IWT) infrastructure on national waterways.
  • These projects are funded through grants provided by the Ministry of Shipping.
  • The IWAI is headquartered in Noida.

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About National Waterways

  • The National Waterways Act, 2016 declared a total of 111 inland waterways as national waterways, which include five waterways that were previously declared as national waterways.
  • Out of the 111 national waterways, 13 are currently operational for shipping, navigation, and the movement of cargo and passenger vessels.

Jalvahak Scheme

National Waterways (NW 1, NW 2, and NW 16)

National Waterway Route River System Key Locations Length Significance
NW 1 Allahabad (Prayagraj) to Haldia Ganges, Bhagirathi, Hooghly Fixed terminals: Haldia, Farrakka, Patna.

Floating terminals: Kolkata, Bhagalpur, Varanasi, Allahabad

Longest waterway in India (1,620 km) Facilitates cargo and passenger transport through major industrial and urban hubs.
NW 2 Sadiya to Dhubri (Assam) Brahmaputra River Major towns along the stretch include Sadiya, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, and Dhubri. 891 km Major freight transport route for the northeastern region of India.
NW 16 Lakhipur to Bhanga (Assam) Barak River Major locations include Lakhipur, Silchar, and Bhanga.

WAI has two permanent terminals on NW-16, one each at Badarpur (on NW-14) & Karimganj.

121 km It connects important trade routes in southern Assam and integrates with the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) route.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has intensified its opposition to the Polavaram Project, highlighting its potential adverse effects on tribal communities in Odisha’s Malkangiri district.

About the Polavaram Project

Polavaram Project

  • The Polavaram Irrigation Project is being built on the Godavari River.
    • It has been accorded national project status by the union government in 2014.
  • It was conceived as part of the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT) recommendations and declared a national project under the Andhra Pradesh State Reorganization Act, 2014.
  • Initially agreed upon in an interstate agreement (1980) between Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha, the project is being executed by Andhra Pradesh.
    • The Reservoir also spreads to Telangana, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.
  • The Union government has allocated ₹15,000 crore for its completion in the 2024 budget.
  • Purpose: To provide irrigation benefits, generate hydropower, and support interlinking of rivers for water distribution.
  • Displacement of Konda Reddis and Koya Tribes: The Konda Reddis (a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group) and Koya tribes in the Godavari region have been displaced due to the Polavaram Project, are now deprived of their livelihood.

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Criteria for declaring an irrigation project as a National Project in India

  • International Projects: Involving water usage dictated by treaties or crucial for national interest.
  • Inter-State Projects: Facing delays due to unresolved issues like cost sharing, rehabilitation, or power generation, including river interlinking projects.
  • Intra-State Projects:
    • Creating new irrigation potential exceeding 2 lakh hectares.
    • No water-sharing disputes.
    • Established hydrology.
  • Extension, Renovation & Modernization (ERM) Projects: Aiming to extend/restore irrigation potential of at least 2 lakh hectares.

Important Note: Meeting these criteria doesn’t automatically guarantee National Project status. It also  requires approval of the Advisory Committee on Irrigation, Flood Control and Multipurpose projects of DoWR, RD&GR as per laid down procedure, investment clearance, recommendations by the High Powered Steering Committee, availability of funds as well as Government priorities at that time, etc.

About Konda Reddis

  • Geographical Distribution: The Konda Reddi tribe is found in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
    • It is classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) and primarily inhabits the banks of the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh.
  • Language: The Konda Reddis speak Telugu with a distinctive accent unique to their community.
  • Religion: Their religious beliefs align with Folk Hinduism, characterized by local traditions and the worship of community-level deities.
  • Family Structure: The tribe follows a patriarchal and patrilocal family system, where family lineage and residence are centered around male members.
  • Housing: The Konda Reddis have developed a unique circular-shaped architecture for their houses.
    • These houses, built with circular mud walls and thatched roofs, resemble the Bhunga architecture of Gujarat’s Kachchh region.

About Koya Tribe

  • Geographical Distribution: The Koya tribe is a multi-racial and multi-lingual community found in forests, plains, and valleys on both sides of the Godavari River.
    • They primarily reside in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
  • Language: The Koya people speak the Koya language, also known as Koyi, which is part of the Dravidian language family.
    • It is closely related to Gondi and has significant Telugu influences.
  • Festivals: The Koya tribe celebrates the Sammakka Saralamma Jatra, held once every two years on the full moon day of Magha Masam (January or February).
    • This festival takes place at Medaram village in Mulug taluk, Warangal district.
  • Social Structure: Every Koya individual belongs to one of the five sub-divisions known as gotrams.
    • A Koya person is born into a clan, and they remain associated with it for life.

Jupiter’s moon Io’s volcanic secrets

Context: NASA’s Juno mission has resolved a long-standing mystery about Jupiter’s moon Io.

Key finding

  • New findings reveal that Io’s volcanoes are fed by individual magma chambers, not a global magma ocean.
  • Other moons of Jupiter:  Europa, Ganymede and Callisto. 

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Insights into Io’s Volcanic Activity

  • Io is the most volcanic celestial body in the solar system.
    • Around 400 volcanoes erupt on its surface, ejecting lava and plumes.
  • Discovered by:  Galileo Galilei in 1610, its volcanic activity was confirmed in 1979 when Voyager 1 captured volcanic plumes.
  • Galileo initially named Jupiter’s moons the Medicean planets, in honor of the powerful Medici family.
  • Potential for Life
    • Io is an unlikely candidate for life due to:
      • Constant volcanic activity.
      • High levels of intense radiation.
  • Size and Distance
    • Io is slightly larger than Earth’s Moon.
      • It is the third-largest of Jupiter’s moons and the fifth closest to the planet in terms of orbital distance.
  • Reasons for  Io’s Volcanic Activity
    • Elliptical Orbit: Io’s orbit around Jupiter is not circular which causes changes in gravitational forces. 
    • Gravitational Heating: Io is pulled by the strong gravitational force of Jupiter and its moons. 
      • Tidal flexing: This pull stretches and bends Io which causes it to heat up inside. 
    • Internal Heating: Radioactive elements inside Io also release heat due to which, melt rocks.  

Significance of the Discovery

  • These findings could reshape theories about planetary formation and evolution.
  • Insights may also enhance understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa.

 

1st India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024)

Context: Recently, The 1st India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024) was organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW). 

Key Highlights of India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 (IMHC 2024)

  • Theme: Towards Understanding India’s Position in Global Maritime History”.
  • Major Themes
  • Discussions centered on:
    • Skill development.
    • Youth engagement.
    • Cultural preservation, aligning with India’s broader developmental goals.
  • Global Participation
    • Prominent maritime nations like Greece, Italy, and the UK participated, emphasizing India’s global maritime significance.
    • A key highlight was the focus on the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal.

National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)

  • Aim: To showcase India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage, making it the world’s largest maritime complex.
  • Nodal Authority: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

 

Golan Heights

Context: Recently,  the Israeli Prime Minister announced a plan to double the population in the Golan Heights.

More on the news

  • The government unanimously approved a budget of over 40 million shekels ($11 million) to encourage demographic growth.

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About Golan Heights

  • Location: It is located in the southwest corner of Syria, it is a basaltic plateau.
  • Capital ; Katzrin 
  • Bordering regions
    • Bordered by:
      • South: Yarmouk River
      • West: Sea of Galilee and Hula Valley
      • North: Anti-Lebanon mountains with Mount Hermon
      • East: Wadi Raqqad
  • Strategic importance
    • Location: This plateau is on high elevation which provides a natural vantage point to monitor surrounding regions. 
      • The area is  useful for military and surveillance purposes due to its proximity with Syria, Israel, and Lebanon. 
    • Source of water: The region is a key source of water due to the Jordan river. 
    • Fertile Land: The region’s volcanic soil is very fertile for vineyards, orchards, and other agricultural activities.

Other important information

Historical Context

  • Seizure by Israel: Captured from Syria during the 1967 Six-Day War.
  • Displacement: Most Syrian Arab inhabitants fled during the conflict.
  • Annexation by Israel
    • 1981 Annexation: Israel unilaterally annexed the Golan Heights.
    • US Recognition: In 2019, US President Donald Trump recognised Israeli sovereignty over the region.
  • Major river: Yarmouk River forms the southern boundary of the Golan Heights. 
  • Highest Peak: Mount Hermon, also known as Jabal al-Shaykh.

 

African Swine Fever outbreak reported in Kottayam district

Context: An outbreak of African Swine Fever, a highly contagious disease affecting pigs, has been reported in Kottayam district, Kerala. 

About African Swine Fever (ASF)

  • ASF was earlier endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. 
  • It affects only pigs and wild boars but is not transmissible to humans. Thus it is not a zoonotic disease.
  • Symptoms in pigs include high fever, loss of appetite, hemorrhages, and high mortality rates.
  • Lack of Vaccine: ASF has no available vaccine or treatment, making culling an essential control measure.
  • Thus, the virus leads to significant deaths among pigs, creating a critical situation.
  • It is listed in the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)’s Terrestrial Animal Health Code.

Impacts of the Outbreak

  • Economic Losses
    • Farmers face substantial financial setbacks due to the mandatory culling of infected and at-risk pigs.
  • Food Supply Disruption
    • Pork production and distribution are critical in Kerala’s meat consumption patterns.
  • Public Health and Livelihood Concerns
    • Spread of misinformation in people

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Ustad Zakir Hussain

Context: Tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away in San Francisco at the age of 73 recently due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

About Zakir Hussain

  • Father: He is the son of Ustad Allah Rakha Khan, a well-known Indian tabla player.
  • Career: He collaborated with the greatest of India’s iconic performers, including Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan and Shivkumar Sharma.
  • Global Collaboration: Hussain made his American debut performing with Ravi Shankar at the Fillmore East in New York City. 
    • Shakti (a musical group) was started in New York by Hussain along with guitarist John McLaughlin and Indian violinist L. Shankar.
    • In 1984 he started his own percussion ensemble, the Zakir Hussain Rhythm Experience.
    • In 1996 he was involved in composing music for the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympics in Atlanta.
    • Others: Planet Drum and Global Drum Project with Mickey Hart; Sangam with Charles Lloyd and Eric Harland; CrossCurrents with Dave Holland and Chris Potter; in trio with Béla Fleck and Edgar Meyer.
  • Awards and Recognition:
    • 66th Annual Grammy Awards on February 4, 2024: Zakir became the first musician from India to receive 3 Grammys at one time for Best Global Music Album, Best Global Music Performance and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.
      • 1st Grammy: The 1992 album Planet Drum with Mickey Hart earned them a Grammy Award and the Downbeat Critics Poll for best world beat album
    • Nominated for an award at the 1983 Cannes Film Festival for his musical contributions in the film Heat and Dust 
    • Sangeet Natak Akademi: In 1996 he was presented with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and in 2019, became a Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellow (a rare lifetime distinction)
    • Padma Awards: He received the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.
    • Other: The USA’s National Heritage Fellowship and Officier in France’s Order of Arts and Letters.
  • Legacy:  
    • He is the founder and president of Moment Records, an independent record label presenting rare live concert recordings of Indian classical music and world music. 
    • Educator: Zakir has been a resident artist at Princeton University and Stanford University, and, in 2015, was appointed Regents Lecturer at UCBerkeley.

 

Algorithmic  Trading

Context: Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) recently has proposed a framework to allow retail investors to participate in algorithmic trading through stock brokers.

Key Provisions in the Draft Circular

  • Approval: Stock Exchanges needs to grant approval for each algo that will be used by retail investors.
  • Unique Identification:  All such orders will need to be tagged with a unique identifier for transparency in audit processes.
  • Registration: Algos developed by tech-savvy retail investors will need to be registered with exchanges.
  • Supervision: Exchanges will be responsible for supervising algorithmic trading for retail investors, including defining the roles and responsibilities of brokers.

About Algorithmic Trading

  • Algorithmic trading, also called automated trading or black-box trading, uses a computer program that follows a defined set of instructions (an algorithm) to place a trade based on timing, price, quantity, or any mathematical model. 
    • It combines computer programming and financial markets to execute trades at precise moments.
  • Introduction: SEBI introduced algorithmic trading for the first time in 2008 only for institutional investors.
  • Scale of Usage: As per SEBI’s study in 2024, algorithmic trading accounted for 97% of foreign investors’ and 96% of proprietary traders’ profits in futures and options.
  • Types:
    • Arbitrage: An algorithm that seeks to profit by buying a stock at a lower price on one exchange and selling it at a higher price on another exchange 
    • Mean Reversion: A strategy that assumes an asset’s price will eventually return to its average price over time 
    • Trend Following: The strategy assumes that future asset price returns will follow the same direction as historical returns 
    • Index Fund Rebalancing: A strategy that periodically buys or sells assets to keep an index fund’s composition in line with its benchmark index 
    • Time Weighted Average Price (TWAP): It breaks up a large order and releases dynamically determined smaller chunks of the order to the market using evenly divided time slots between a start and end time

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Location Based: Kerch Strait

Context: Recently, two Russian oil tankers have been badly damaged in the Kerch Strait, causing an oil spill.

About Kerch Strait

  • Geographical Location
    • Strait in Eastern Europe connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
    • Separates the Kerch Peninsula of Crimea (west) from the Taman Peninsula of Russia’s Krasnodar Krai (east).
    • Also known historically as the Cimmerian Bosporus and Straits of Yenikale (after the Yeni-Kale fortress in Kerch).
  • Strategic Importance:
    • Vital for Russian exports of crude oil, grain, and liquefied natural gas.
    • Key geopolitical point due to its proximity to Crimea.
    • Controls access to the Black Sea from the Sea of Azov, making it crucial for maritime military and economic strategy.
  • Key Harbor: The Crimean city of Kerch: Lends its name to the strait, known for its historical and economic relevance.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
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