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Daily Current Affairs

29-April -2024- Top News of the Day

1. India’s imports from China rise to $101 billion while exports stagnate (Source – The Hindu, Page - 1)

(Source – The Hindu, Page – 1)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations, GS3 – Indian Economy – Effects of liberalisation on the economy

The topic is crucial for UPSC as it addresses India’s economic dependency on China and its strategic implications.

Context:

● The news highlights India’s escalating imports from China, reaching over $101 billion in 2023-24, raising concerns over economic dependency and national security implications.

Analysis of the news:

India’s imports from China surged to over $101 billion in 2023-24 from around $70 billion in 2018-19, with China’s share of India’s industrial goods imports rising from 21% to 30% over 15 years.
Chinese imports have risen 2.3 times faster than India’s total imports over the same period, impacting various sectors including machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
The trade deficit with China has exceeded $387 billion over six years, with India’s exports to China remaining stagnant at around $16 billion annually.
Although India’s exports to China increased in 90 principal commodities, accounting for 67.7% of India’s export basket to China, the trade deficit persists.
India’s total merchandise imports in 2023-24 amounted to $677.2 billion, with 15% ($101.8 billion) sourced from China.
China is the top supplier in eight major industrial sectors in India, prompting concerns over economic and national security implications.
The study suggests reassessing strategies to mitigate economic risks, bolster domestic industries, and reduce dependency on single-country imports, particularly from geopolitical competitors like China.

Implications of imbalance in India – China trade relations

Implications of Imbalance in India-China Trade Relations:

● Trade Deficit: India faces a significant trade deficit with China, leading to economic imbalance and dependency on Chinese imports.

● Loss of Domestic Industries: Chinese imports undermine domestic industries in India, particularly in sectors such as electronics, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.

● Strategic Concerns: Trade imbalance raises strategic concerns for India, as it increases dependency on China for critical goods and technologies.

● Security Risks: Overreliance on Chinese imports poses security risks, as it exposes India to supply chain disruptions and vulnerabilities in times of geopolitical tensions.

● Market Access Issues: India seeks greater market access for its products in China, but faces barriers such as non-tariff barriers, regulatory hurdles, and unfair trade practices.

● Geopolitical Tensions: Trade imbalances exacerbate geopolitical tensions between India and China, impacting bilateral relations and regional stability.

Way Forward:

● Diversification of Trade Partners: India should diversify its trade partners and reduce dependency on China by exploring new markets and strengthening trade ties with other countries.

● Promotion of Domestic Industries: Encourage domestic manufacturing and industries through incentives, subsidies, and policy support to reduce reliance on Chinese imports.

● Addressing Market Access Issues: Negotiate with China to address market access issues, reduce trade barriers, and promote fair and reciprocal trade practices.

● Enhancing Competitiveness: Improve the competitiveness of Indian industries through investments in infrastructure, technology, research and development, and skill development.

● Bilateral Dialogue: Engage in bilateral dialogues and negotiations with China to address trade imbalances, enhance cooperation, and promote balanced trade relations.

● Strengthening Regional Cooperation: Strengthen regional economic cooperation frameworks such as ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and RCEP to diversify trade and reduce dependency on any single partner.

PYQ: ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbour. (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2017)

Practice Question: Discuss the economic and strategic ramifications of India’s increasing import dependency on China, emphasising measures to mitigate risks. (250 Words /15 marks)

2. Palace to unveil true copy of Ravi Varma’s Indulekha

(Source – The Hindu, Page – 3)

Topic: GS1 – Indian Culture – Art Forms

The topic is relevant for UPSC as it showcases cultural heritage preservation and the legacy of renowned artists.

Context:

● The news highlights the unveiling of the first true copy of Raja Ravi Varma’s painting “Indulekha” at Kilimanoor Palace, evoking enthusiasm in the art community.

Analysis of the news:

The first true copy of Raja Ravi Varma’s painting “Indulekha” will be unveiled at Kilimanoor Palace.
Indulekha is the protagonist of the first modern novel in Malayalam literature, written by O. Chandu Menon in 1889.
The painting emerged in the public domain in 2022, generating enthusiasm in the art community.
Initially, the original painting was planned for unveiling on Raja Ravi Varma’s 176th birth anniversary.
Due to security concerns, the lone true copy will be unveiled instead.
Sasikala Parakkal, the owner of the painting, will unveil it at the palace.
The painting depicts Indulekha holding a letter addressed to her lover Madhavan, with an oil painting style characteristic of Raja Ravi Varma.
The painting was restored by Madhan S. of the Heritage Conservation and Research Academy.

More about Raja Ravi Varma

● Early Life: Raja Ravi Varma (1848-1906) was born in the princely state of Travancore (present-day Kerala) to a family of nobility and artists.

● Style: Raja Ravi Varma is renowned for blending Indian traditions with European academic realism, creating a unique style that revolutionized Indian art.

● Mythological Paintings: He is famous for his depictions of Hindu mythological figures and epics, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, which became iconic representations of Indian cultural heritage.

● Portraiture: Raja Ravi Varma’s portraits of Indian royalty, aristocracy, and prominent personalities captured the essence and elegance of his subjects, earning him widespread acclaim.

● Printmaking: He pioneered the use of lithography to mass-produce his paintings, making art accessible to a wider audience and popularising his works across India.

● Legacy: Raja Ravi Varma established the Ravi Varma Press in 1894, making high-quality reproductions of his work widely available, influencing generations of artists and the Indian public.

● Recognition: His paintings have been exhibited internationally and are housed in prestigious museums and collections worldwide, cementing his status as one of India’s greatest artists.

Some of his renowned paintings:

● Shakuntala: Depicting the character from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, this painting captures the beauty and grace of Shakuntala as she gazes wistfully into the distance.

● Damayanti Talking to a Swan: Inspired by the Nala-Damayanti tale from the Mahabharata, this painting portrays the princess Damayanti conversing with a swan, showcasing Raja Ravi Varma’s mastery of capturing emotion and narrative in his artwork.

● The Maharashtrian Lady: This portrait exemplifies Raja Ravi Varma’s ability to portray the elegance and dignity of Indian women, showcasing intricate details in attire and jewellery.

● Lady Giving Alms at the Temple: Reflecting the artist’s fascination with religious themes, this painting depicts a devout woman making an offering at a temple, capturing the spiritual essence of the moment.

● The Milkmaid: Inspired by European academic realism, this painting portrays a young woman in traditional attire, highlighting Raja Ravi Varma’s skill in capturing everyday scenes with meticulous attention to detail.

● Galaxy of Musicians: This iconic painting showcases a group of musicians playing traditional Indian instruments, capturing the vibrancy and richness of Indian cultural heritage.

● The Mysore Lady in Traditional Attire: This portrait of a noblewoman from Mysore exemplifies Raja Ravi Varma’s ability to capture the essence of regional aesthetics and attire in his artwork.

● The Maharashtrian Lady with Fruit Basket: Another portrait showcasing the artist’s skill in capturing the beauty and grace of Indian women, this painting features a Maharashtrian lady holding a basket of fruits, adorned in traditional attire.

Practice Question: Discuss the artistic contributions and cultural impact of Raja Ravi Varma in shaping Indian art during the 19th century. (150 Words /10 marks)

3. Anticyclones, hanging even now over India, link warming to heat

(Source – The Hindu, Page – 7)

Topic: GS1 – Geography – Important Geophysical phenomena – Cyclones

This topic is significant for UPSC as it pertains to climate change, disaster management, and technological advancements in prediction systems.

Context:

● The news discusses the relationship between global warming, local weather patterns, and the impact on heat waves in India, emphasizing improved prediction systems.

Analysis of this news:

Global warming’s impact on local weather underscores the importance of modelling globally but predicting locally.
The waning strong El Niño of 2023 resulted in expected warm temperatures globally, but cooler temperatures spread from Pakistan to West Bengal in India.
Heat waves in India during elections raise concerns, influenced by persistent circulation patterns and anticyclonic circulations over the North Indian Ocean.
The Indian Easterly Jet (IEJ) and westerly jet generate anticyclonic patterns over the Indian Ocean and the Indian subcontinent, affecting weather.
The strength of the anticyclone influences the duration, intensity, and frequency of heat waves, exacerbated by global warming’s effects.
Early-warning systems for extreme weather events follow a ‘ready-set-go’ approach, integrating seasonal outlooks and subseasonal predictions to guide disaster management.
India’s prediction and early warning systems are improving, with efforts to enhance resilience and predict weather trajectories at various timescales.
Challenges remain in coordinating predictions from national to neighbourhood levels and training stakeholders for sustained success in disaster preparedness and economic development.

Key differences between cyclones and anticyclones

Cyclones:

● Formation: Cyclones form due to low-pressure systems characterized by converging winds rotating counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

● Characteristics:

● Intense upward motion of air leads to cloud formation, precipitation, and stormy weather conditions.

● Strong winds spiral inward toward the low-pressure center, reaching maximum intensity in the eyewall.

● Cyclones are often associated with heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and sometimes tornadoes.

● Effects on Weather Patterns:

● Cyclones bring heavy rainfall, leading to flooding, landslides, and waterlogging in affected areas.

● High winds associated with cyclones can cause significant damage to infrastructure, vegetation, and property.

● Storm surges, characterised by a rise in sea level, pose a severe threat to coastal regions, causing coastal erosion and inundation.

Anticyclones:

● Formation: Anticyclones form due to high-pressure systems characterised by diverging winds rotating clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

● Characteristics:

● Air descends and diverges outward from the high-pressure center, leading to clear skies, stable atmospheric conditions, and dry weather.

● Light winds and calm weather prevail within anticyclones, with minimal cloud cover and precipitation.

● Anticyclones are often associated with fair weather, sunny conditions, and temperature inversions, where warmer air traps cooler air near the surface.

● Effects on Weather Patterns:

● Anticyclones bring dry weather conditions, resulting in drought, aridity, and reduced agricultural productivity.

● Clear skies and calm winds associated with anticyclones contribute to temperature extremes, with cold temperatures in winter and heatwaves in summer.

● Temperature inversions can lead to air pollution buildup, as pollutants are trapped near the surface, impacting air quality and human health.

Key Differences:

● Cyclones are associated with low-pressure systems, while anticyclones are associated with high-pressure systems.

● Cyclones bring stormy weather conditions, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, whereas anticyclones bring fair weather, dry conditions, and calm winds.

● Cyclones lead to hazardous weather phenomena such as flooding, storm surges, and tornadoes, while anticyclones contribute to temperature extremes and air pollution buildup.

● Cyclones are characterised by converging winds and upward motion of air, while anticyclones are characterised by diverging winds and descending air motion.

PYQ:

Q.1 Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department. (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-1 2022)

Q.2 Tropical cyclones are largely confined to South China Sea, Bay of Bengal and Gulf of Mexico. Why? (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-1 2014)

Practice Question: Explain the key differences between cyclones and anticyclones, highlighting their formation, characteristics, and effects on weather patterns. (250 Words /15 marks)

4. The significance of carrier aviation

(Source – The Hindu, Page – 10)

Topic: GS3 – Internal Security

This topic is significant for UPSC as it pertains to India’s indigenous defence capabilities and strategic naval operations.

Context:

● The news showcases India’s naval prowess with twin carrier operations of INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, symbolising indigenous aircraft carrier capability.

Indian Navy’s Twin Carrier Operations: INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant

On March 5, 2023, both Indian Navy aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, showcased “twin carrier operations” with simultaneous take-offs and cross-deck landings of MiG-29K fighter jets.
This demonstration, witnessed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, highlighted India’s unique capability in naval operations, achieved by only a few nations.

Significance of INS Vikrant

INS Vikrant, commissioned in September 2022, is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, symbolising a milestone in the country’s warship-building capabilities.
The construction of Vikrant marked significant advancements in indigenous technologies, including the development of DMR-249 steel in collaboration with the Steel Authority of India, DRDO, and the Indian Navy.

Composition and Capabilities of INS Vikrant

Vikrant, with over 76% indigenous content, boasts a total area exceeding 12,450 m2, powered by four General Electric LM2500 engines generating 88 MW of power.
It can accommodate a crew of around 1,600, including specialised facilities for women officers and sailors, and has advanced galley facilities capable of preparing thousands of meals daily.

Operational Capabilities and Future Plans

INS Vikrant can operate an air wing comprising MiG-29K fighter jets, helicopters, and indigenous aircraft, utilizing the STOBAR method for aircraft launch and recovery.
India’s Navy envisions concurrent availability of two Carrier Battle Groups to ensure credible presence and preparedness across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Future Prospects: Indigenous Aircraft Carrier II (IAC-II)

The proposal for IAC-II, a repeat of Vikrant-like carrier displacing 45,000 tonnes, has been cleared by the Defence Procurement Board and awaits approval by the Defence Acquisition Council.
The IAC-II, incorporating newer technologies, will be a timely replacement for INS Vikramaditya and aligns with India’s vision for a robust naval force structure.

Global Naval Dynamics

The global interest in aircraft carriers is evident, with various countries investing in carriers of varying sizes, including the U.S., U.K., France, Russia, Japan, and China.
The evolving naval warfare landscape underscores the enduring relevance and strategic significance of aircraft carriers in modern maritime operations.

Conclusion

INS Vikrant’s commissioning signifies India’s technological prowess and self-reliance in naval capabilities, with plans for IAC-II reinforcing the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong naval presence in the region.
As global naval dynamics evolve, the strategic importance of aircraft carriers remains paramount, positioning India’s Navy as a significant player in maritime security and defence.

PYQ: (UPSC civil services prelims 2016)

Q. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

Ans: option C

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of India’s indigenous aircraft carrier program, focusing on its technological advancements and strategic implications for national defence. (250 Words /15 marks)

5. India and UK in Talks for Development of Electric Propulsion System for Warships

(Source – Indian Express, Page – 5)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations

This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of knowing facts about the collaboration between India and the UK on defense technology which underscores the importance of international partnerships in advancing defense capabilities.

Context:

The Centre and the UK government are engaged in discussions regarding the potential development of an electric propulsion system in India to power domestic warships.
This development marks a significant shift in India’s naval technology, potentially transitioning from conventional diesel engines, gas turbines, or steam turbines to electric propulsion systems for larger warships.

Analysis of the News:

Origin and Progress of Discussions:

According to officials, the UK government expressed its interest in the development of this capability through a letter of intent sent to the Indian government.
Following this, Indian officials have been evaluating the formal proposal, indicating progress towards the finalization of an agreement between the two nations.
This agreement is expected to cover various aspects such as training, equipment, and infrastructure necessary for the development and deployment of electric propulsion systems in Indian warships.

Collaborative Efforts and Memorandum of Understanding:

Upon the signing of the agreement, collaboration between UK’s GE Power Conversion and India’s Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL) is anticipated to play a crucial role in developing the ‘Integrated Full Electric Propulsion System.’
Both companies have already signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to initiate this collaborative effort, aligning with the broader goals of enhancing India’s naval capabilities.

Application and Testing of Electric Propulsion System:

While the UK Royal Navy’s Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers serve as models for integrated full electric propulsion vessels, India’s initial focus will likely be on testing this system on landing platform docks and next-generation destroyers.
This phased approach allows for systematic testing and adaptation of the technology to suit India’s naval requirements and operational contexts.

Diplomatic Engagements and Joint Working Groups:

Discussions surrounding the development of the electric propulsion system gained momentum during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to the UK.
Subsequent engagements between high-level naval officials from both countries further underscored the commitment to advancing this collaborative effort.
Joint working groups, meetings, and port calls have facilitated exchanges of technical expertise and experiences, laying the groundwork for effective collaboration.

Future Prospects and Technological Exchange:

The ongoing discussions between India and the UK signify a broader trend of international cooperation in defense technology development.
The exchange of technical know-how and experiences on electric propulsion systems not only enhances India’s naval capabilities but also fosters closer diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The joint efforts to advance this technology underscore the importance of collaboration in addressing complex defense challenges in the modern era.

India-UK Defence Relations

Historical Context:

The foundation of India-UK defence ties dates back to the colonial era when British forces played a crucial role in shaping India’s military structure. However, the dynamics underwent a transformation post-Independence in 1947.
Over the years, the relationship evolved from a colonial legacy to a strategic partnership, marked by shared democratic values, a common language, and historical linkages.

Evolving Partnership:

The 21st century witnessed a renewed focus on bolstering defence collaboration between India and the UK.
High-level visits and dialogues between the leadership of both nations have paved the way for enhanced cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and joint military exercises.
The signing of the ‘Framework for the India-UK Defence Partnership’ in 2020 marked a significant milestone, providing a comprehensive roadmap for future engagements.

Joint Military Exercises:

Examples include ‘Exercise Ajeya Warrior,’ strengthening interoperability between the Indian Army and the British Army.
Such exercises foster mutual understanding, operational coordination, and shared best practices.

Joint Exercises between the UK and India

Ajeya Warrior:

Type: Army Exercise

Objective: Enhance counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency capabilities.

Details: Ajeya Warrior is a biennial exercise that alternates between India and the UK. It involves the Indian Army and the British Army and focuses on urban warfare, close-quarter battle drills, and joint tactical exercises.

Konkan:

Type: Naval Exercise

Objective: Improve maritime cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy.

Details: Konkan is an annual naval exercise that has been conducted since 2004. It includes various facets of naval operations such as anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and surface warfare.

Indra Dhanush:

Type: Air Force Exercise

Objective: Enhance cooperation and understanding between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Air Force.

Details: Indra Dhanush is an air force exercise that focuses on joint air combat and air mobility operations. It helps in exchanging expertise in areas such as fighter operations and air maintenance.

Exercise Information Warrior:

Type: Joint Cyber Exercise

Objective: Strengthen cyber capabilities and cooperation in dealing with cyber threats.

Details: Information Warrior is a cyber exercise conducted by both nations to enhance their abilities to counter cyber threats and protect critical infrastructure.

Exercise Cope India:

Type: Air Force Exercise

Objective: Improve combat capabilities and interoperability between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Air Force.

Details: Cope India is a trilateral exercise involving the Indian Air Force, the United States Air Force, and the Royal Air Force. It focuses on air combat training, aerial refueling, and airlift missions.

Ex-Eastron:

Type: Joint Ground Exercise

Objective: Enhance capabilities in joint anti-terrorism operations.

Details: Ex-Eastron is a joint exercise involving the Indian and British Special Forces. It focuses on special operations and counter-terrorism scenarios.

These joint exercises play a crucial role in fostering military-to-military cooperation, building trust and understanding between the armed forces of India and the United Kingdom. They also contribute to the overall strategic partnership, addressing shared security concerns and promoting regional and global stability.

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the proposed collaboration between the Indian and UK governments for the development of an electric propulsion system for Indian warships. Evaluate the potential impact of this technological advancement on India’s naval capabilities, defense modernization efforts, and strategic partnerships with other nations. (250 words/15 m)

6. Microsoft Unveils Phi-3-mini: Latest Breakthrough in Lightweight AI Models

(Source – Indian Express, Page – 12)

Topic: GS3 – Science & Technology – Development & their applications

This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of understanding developments in artificial intelligence, particularly in compact language models like Phi-3-mini.

Context:

Microsoft last week unveiled the latest version of its lightweight AI model, the Phi-3-mini, reportedly the first among three small language models (SLMs) that the company plans to release.
This development marks a significant advancement in the field of artificial intelligence, particularly in the realm of compact language models (SLMs).

Analysis of the News:

Phi-3-mini Basics: Features and Specifications:

Phi-3-mini is characterized by its 3.8 billion parameters, making it a substantial AI model despite being smaller than large language models (LLMs) like OpenAI’s GPT-4.
It is designed to be instruction-tuned, allowing it to follow a range of user instructions, thereby enhancing its usability in various applications.
Notably, Phi-3-mini supports a context window of up to 128,000 tokens, a feature that aids in information recall during sessions without compromising quality.

Differentiation from Large Language Models (LLMs):

SLMs like Phi-3-mini offer distinct advantages over LLMs in terms of cost-effectiveness, performance on smaller devices, and task specialization.
Unlike LLMs, which are trained on massive general datasets, SLMs can be fine-tuned for specific tasks, resulting in improved accuracy and efficiency while demanding less computing power and energy.
Additionally, SLMs exhibit lower inference latency, making them suitable for real-time applications such as virtual assistants and chatbots.

Phi-3-mini’s Capabilities: Performance and Applications:

Phi-3-mini has demonstrated superior performance across various benchmarks, including language comprehension, reasoning, coding, and mathematics.
Its efficient use of computational power and reduced latency make it suitable for processing large text content, such as documents, web pages, and code.
Moreover, its strong reasoning and logic capabilities make it ideal for analytical tasks, enhancing its versatility and applicability in diverse domains.

Use Cases and Deployment: Impact in India:

Microsoft highlighted use cases from India, showcasing how organizations like ITC leverage Phi-3-mini for applications such as Krishi Mitra, a farmer-facing app.
This underscores the model’s relevance and potential impact in addressing real-world challenges and driving innovation in specific domains.

Conclusion:

Overall, the introduction of Phi-3-mini represents a significant milestone in the development of compact language models, offering users advanced capabilities in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
As organizations and research groups increasingly adopt SLMs for various applications, the deployment of Phi-3-mini holds promise for driving innovation and addressing complex challenges across different sectors.

About Small Language Models

Small language models are AI language models that contain significantly fewer parameters compared to their larger counterparts, such as GPT-4 or Gemini Advanced.
While large language models (LLMs) boast hundreds of billions of parameters, SLMs typically range from a few million to a few billion parameters.
· Despite their smaller size, SLMs are demonstrating remarkable effectiveness in specialized tasks and resource-constrained environments, thanks to advancements in training techniques, architecture, and optimization strategies.

Applications of Small Language Models

The versatility of SLMs is one of their most compelling features, finding applications in various domains, including:
Sentiment analysis
Text summarization
Question-answering
Code generation
The compact size and efficient computation of SLMs make them well-suited for deployment on edge devices, mobile applications, and resource-constrained environments.
For example, Google’s Gemini Nano, featured on the latest Google Pixel phones, assists with text replies and summarizes recordings without requiring an internet connection.
Microsoft’s Orca-2–7b and Orca-2–13b are other examples of SLMs.

SLMs vs. LLMs: Key Differences

Specialization:

While LLMs are trained on vast amounts of general data, SLMs excel in specialization through fine-tuning, achieving high accuracy and performance in narrow contexts.

Computational efficiency:

SLMs require significantly less computational power and energy consumption compared to LLMs.
Inference speed and latency: The compact size of SLMs enables faster processing times, making them more responsive and suitable for real-time applications.

Cost-effectiveness:

The development and deployment of SLMs are often more cost-effective than LLMs, making them an attractive option for smaller organizations and research groups with limited budgets.

Notable Small Language Models

Llama 2 (Meta AI)
Mistral and Mixtral (Mistral AI)
Phi and Orca (Microsoft)
Alpaca 7B (Stanford)
StableLM (Stability AI)

The Future of Small Language Models

As research and development in this area continue to advance, the future of small language models looks promising.
Advanced techniques such as distillation, transfer learning, and innovative training strategies are expected to further enhance the capabilities of these models, potentially closing the performance gap with LLMs in various tasks.

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of Microsoft’s Phi-3-mini AI model in advancing artificial intelligence technology. Explain how compact language models like Phi-3-mini differ from large language models and evaluate their potential applications in various sectors. (250 words/15 m)

7. Global Talks in Ottawa: Negotiating a Landmark Treaty to Combat Plastic Pollution

(Source – Indian Express, Page – 12)

Topic: GS3 – Environment – Pollution and Degradation

This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of understanding the causes, impacts, and solutions to plastic pollution.

Context:

Last week, delegates from 175 countries convened in Ottawa, Canada, to commence discussions on a groundbreaking global treaty aimed at combating plastic pollution.
India, represented by a senior official from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, is among the participating nations.
These negotiations mark the fourth round of talks since 2022, following the UN Environmental Assembly’s decision to develop a legally binding treaty on plastics pollution by the end of 2024.

Analysis of the News:

Rising Plastic Production and Pollution:

Since the 1950s, global plastic production has surged exponentially, reaching over 450 million tonnes in 2019.
If unchecked, production is projected to double by 2050 and triple by 2060. Despite its versatility, plastic’s persistent nature poses a significant environmental crisis.
With decomposition times ranging from 20 to 500 years and inadequate recycling rates, nearly 6 billion tonnes of plastic waste currently pollute the planet.
This has led to widespread contamination of ecosystems and poses risks to human health due to the release of harmful chemicals.

Environmental and Health Impacts:

Plastic pollution has far-reaching environmental and health consequences. Leaching of chemicals from plastic waste into the environment has adverse effects on ecosystems and living organisms, including humans.
Moreover, plastic production and disposal contribute to climate change, with plastics generating 8 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019 alone.
If current trends persist, emissions from plastic production could increase by 20% by 2050, exacerbating the climate crisis.

Proposed Measures in the Treaty:

While the specifics of the treaty are yet to be finalized, it is expected to go beyond merely capping plastic production.
Proposed measures include guidelines for assisting poorer nations in meeting their plastic reduction targets, banning specific types of plastic and chemical additives, and setting legally binding recycling targets.
Additionally, the treaty may mandate the testing of certain chemicals in plastics and address the transition of workers in developing countries reliant on the plastic industry for their livelihoods.

Challenges and Roadblocks:

Negotiations for the plastic treaty face significant challenges, primarily from oil and gas-producing nations and fossil fuel and chemical industry groups.
These entities have lobbied to narrow the scope of the treaty, focusing solely on plastic waste and recycling.
Additionally, disagreements persist regarding the decision-making process, with some advocating for consensus-based decision-making, while others favor majority voting.
The influence of lobbying efforts and vested interests has hindered progress in previous rounds of negotiations.

Conclusion:

Despite the obstacles, the negotiations for a global plastic treaty underscore the urgency of addressing the plastic pollution crisis.
With mounting environmental and health concerns, there is a pressing need for collective action to mitigate the impacts of plastic waste.
As the negotiations continue, it is imperative for nations to prioritize the long-term health of the planet and future generations over short-term economic interests.
Only through concerted efforts and cooperation can meaningful progress be made towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.

What are the Initiatives to Tackle Plastic Pollution?

Indian:

Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2022
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
National Dashboard on Elimination of Single Use Plastic and Plastic Waste Management
India Plastics Pact
Project REPLAN

Global:

European Union’ Directive on Single-Use Plastics
Closing the loop.
The Global Tourism Plastics initiative

PYQ: Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment? (2019)

(a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.

(b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.

(d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.

Ans: (a)

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the ongoing negotiations for a global treaty on plastic pollution in Ottawa, Canada, in the context of environmental sustainability and international cooperation. Examine the challenges faced in reaching consensus among participating nations and the potential implications of the treaty on addressing the plastic pollution crisis. (250 words/15 m)

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