12 November 2024 : Daily Current Affairs
1. Will financial roadblocks continue to hinder conservation efforts?
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
| Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Agreements involving India or affecting India’s interests. |
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COP16 Overview and Key Concerns
- The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity concluded in Cali, Colombia, with countries negotiating measures to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.
- A central issue was the financial responsibility for implementing these measures, as biodiversity loss impacts human well-being and societal stability.
Positive Outcomes of COP16
- Inclusive Decision-Making: COP16 established a permanent body including Indigenous people and local communities, ensuring their inputs are included in biodiversity conservation decisions.
- Recognition of African Heritage: The role of people of African descent in biodiversity conservation was recognized, with efforts to integrate their knowledge and conservation practices.
- Biodiversity Funding – Cali Fund:
- A ‘Cali Fund’ was established to support biodiversity conservation, funded by contributions from major corporations in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.
- Companies are required to contribute 0.1% of revenue or 1% of profits from products derived from genetic resources, potentially generating over $1 billion annually.
- Half of the funds are allocated to Indigenous communities to acknowledge their contributions to biodiversity.
- Biodiversity Defence: COP16 proposed guidelines to combat invasive alien species, focusing on developing databases, improving trade regulations, and collaborating with e-commerce platforms.
- Marine Conservation – EBSAs: Negotiators agreed to update and identify Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Areas (EBSAs), which are essential for ocean health.
- One Health Approach: The Global Action Plan on Biodiversity and Health aims for a holistic approach to ecosystem, animal, and human health, addressing drivers of biodiversity loss and health issues like zoonotic diseases.
- Synthetic Biology: Discussions on synthetic biology highlighted potential benefits for conservation but emphasised the need for regulatory frameworks to manage ecological risks.
Challenges and Setbacks
- Financial Gaps: The goal of mobilising $700 billion annually for biodiversity by 2030, including $30 billion from developed to developing countries, remains unmet, with only $163 million pledged.
- Monitoring and Implementation Issues: The lack of a robust monitoring framework hampers progress, with only 44 out of 196 countries submitting updated National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs).
India’s Role at COP16
- India presented an updated NBSAP, aiming to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and achieve coexistence with nature by 2050.
- The plan emphasises inter-agency cooperation, financial solutions, and community involvement in restoration efforts.
Looking Forward
- COP16 highlighted progress in inclusive decision-making and benefit-sharing frameworks, but significant financial and monitoring challenges remain.
| Practice Question: Discuss the key achievements and limitations of the COP16 summit in addressing global biodiversity loss. How can these outcomes impact India’s approach to biodiversity conservation? (150 Words /10 marks) |
2. Xi-Modi Chemistry Sparks Hopes for Renewed India-China Ties Amid Border Dispute and Global Challenges
(Source: Indian Express; Section: Cover Page; Page: 01)
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Analysis of News:
Key Steps for Normalization: China’s Proposals
- Beijing has presented a “wish list” to restore normalcy, including direct flights between the countries, relaxed visa policies for Chinese nationals, a lift on the mobile app ban, reintroduction of Chinese journalists in India, and increased distribution of Indian movies in China.
- These measures aim to facilitate more extensive people-to-people contact and cultural exchange, paving the way for a smoother diplomatic relationship.
Diplomatic Engagements and Future Meetings
- China expects continued high-level dialogues to reinforce this momentum, with plans for meetings on the sidelines of the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil.
- The Chinese government also anticipates Modi’s attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit next year in China, symbolizing a commitment to ongoing engagement.
Border Issues and Broader Collaboration Goals
- While China acknowledges that resolving the border dispute remains critical, officials emphasize that it should not dominate the relationship.
- After recent disengagement along specific LAC points, both sides are looking to address broader challenges, including climate change, artificial intelligence, and green energy.
- This approach seeks to balance border management with collaborative priorities for sustainable development.
Geopolitical Context and Need for Cooperation
- In light of global uncertainties, particularly with the potential return of Donald Trump to the US presidency, China suggests that India and China can mitigate external pressures by strengthening bilateral ties and aligning on common issues.
- Enhanced cooperation could counter external influences and support a more self-reliant approach to Asian security and development.
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PYQ: “Belt and Road Initiative” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of: (2016) (a) African Union (b) Brazil (c) European Union (d) China Ans: D |
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Practice Question: Evaluate the recent diplomatic efforts between India and China to restore normalcy in their relationship post-LAC standoff. Discuss the potential challenges and opportunities these efforts present for regional stability and cooperation on global issues. (250 words/15 m) |
Prelims Facts
1. First Ever Space Exercise ‘Antariksha Abhyas – 2024’ hosted by Defence Space Agency begins in New Delhi
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2072518®=3&lang=1 )
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Overview of Exercise Antariksha Abhyas – 2024
- Objective: To simulate and address growing threats to and from space-based assets and services essential for national security.
- Duration: Conducted over three days from 11 – 13 November 2024.
- Organised by: Defence Space Agency under Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff.
Key Features
- Strategic Importance: Aims to secure India’s national objectives in space by enhancing understanding of space-based assets and services.
- Focus Areas:
- Assess operational dependency on space resources.
- Identify vulnerabilities and potential disruptions to space services.
Participation
- Stakeholders: Includes units from the Defence Space Agency, Army, Navy, Air Force, and specialist branches under Integrated Defence Staff such as Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Strategic Forces Command.
- Collaboration: Participation from key space and defence agencies like ISRO and DRDO, fostering innovation and advancements in space defence technology.
Expected Outcomes
- Enhanced Preparedness: Promotes resilience in space operations.
- Technological Advancements: Encourages development of cutting-edge technology and systems.
| Practice Question: Discuss the significance of space-based assets for India’s national security and the role of exercises like Antariksha Abhyas in strengthening India’s defence preparedness in the space domain. (150 Words /10 marks) |
2. Scientists discover a new fire-resilient, dual-blooming species of Dicliptera in the Northern Western Ghats of India
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2072410®=3&lang=1 )
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Overview of Dicliptera Polymorpha
- Discovery Location: Found in the Talegaon-Dabhade grasslands, northern Western Ghats.
- Taxonomy: Belongs to the genus Dicliptera and is a unique Indian species within this genus.
Key Features
- Fire Resilience: Exhibits a pyrophytic (fire-adaptive) nature, capable of surviving and blooming after grassland fires.
- Dual-Blooming Pattern: Blooms twice a year:
- First bloom: Post-monsoon from November to March or April.
- Second bloom: Triggered by fires in May and June.
Unique Characteristics
- Inflorescence Structure: Features spicate inflorescences, a structure rare among Indian species but found in related African species.
- Morphology: Named for its diverse traits, with dwarf flowering shoots emerging from woody rootstocks after fires.
Conservation Implications
- Thrives in open grasslands exposed to drought and fires.
- Highlights the importance of balanced fire management to prevent habitat degradation and support grassland biodiversity.
3. India’s Political Stability Boosts Apparel Appeal
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2072393®=3&lang=1 )
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Political Stability as a Key Factor
- India’s political stability has enhanced its reputation as a reliable apparel sourcing hub.
- U.S. buyers are shifting to India due to risks associated with political instability in other regions, ensuring more consistent production and delivery.
Market Share Growth in U.S. Apparel Imports (2013-2023)
- India’s share of U.S. apparel imports has risen from 4% in 2013 to 5.8% in 2023, reflecting increased confidence in Indian-made garments.
- India’s stable political climate makes it an attractive choice for high-value and time-sensitive orders.
Strengths in Apparel Production
- India’s vertically integrated textile industry covers all production stages, from cotton farming to garment manufacturing, ensuring reliability.
- India’s skilled labour force, particularly in garment finishing, strengthens its position in high-value apparel.
- Government initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme support India’s growth in global apparel demand.
- India’s cotton production advantage enhances its competitiveness in cotton-based apparel exports.
Comparative Advantage over Other Suppliers
- In 2023, India’s apparel exports to the U.S. were $4.6 billion, positioning it as the fourth-largest supplier.
- However the apparel industry currently faces challenges like rising labour costs and limited production of man-made fibre garments.
India’s apparel sector is positioned for continued growth due to its stable political environment and strong production capabilities.
| Practice Question: Examine the role of political stability in enhancing India’s position as a global apparel sourcing hub. Discuss the challenges India faces in sustaining this growth in the context of global competition. (250 Words /15 marks) |
4. A guide to COP29 climate summit jargon
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
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UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change)
- Established in 1992, the UNFCCC is a global treaty to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts.
- Nearly 200 countries have signed the UNFCCC, committing to meet climate-related goals.
- It serves as the framework guiding international climate policy and agreements, including the Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement.
- The UNFCCC secretariat organises annual COP meetings to facilitate progress toward these goals.
COP (Conference of the Parties)
- The COP is an annual meeting of nations that have signed the UNFCCC treaty, held to assess progress on climate action.
- Each COP meeting gathers representatives to negotiate global climate goals, share scientific insights, and develop solutions to climate issues.
- COP29 in Baku is the 29th such gathering, following the UNFCCC’s entry into force in 1994.
- These summits play a key role in addressing global challenges, such as emissions reduction and climate adaptation.
NCQG (New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance)
- The NCQG sets a climate finance target specifically to aid developing nations in their climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
- This goal is revisited and updated as global needs evolve; COP29 is expected to focus on setting this new quantified goal.
- It represents a move beyond the $100 billion climate finance target established in 2009.
- The NCQG aligns developed countries’ financial commitments with the growing urgency of climate impacts in vulnerable regions.
NDC (Nationally Determined Contributions)
- NDCs are national climate action plans under the Paris Agreement, outlining each country’s targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- They include strategies for both mitigation and adaptation, reflecting each country’s unique capacities and circumstances.
- NDCs are submitted every five years, with the next submissions expected in February, potentially previewed at COP29.
- These pledges are essential to tracking global progress toward limiting global warming to 1.5°C or 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
Global Warming
- Global warming refers to the steady increase in Earth’s average surface temperature, primarily due to human activities.
- The phenomenon is largely driven by the accumulation of greenhouse gases like CO₂ and methane in the atmosphere.
- Warming temperatures are linked to widespread consequences, including sea-level rise, ice melt, and disrupted ecosystems.
- Global warming is a primary driver of climate change and a central issue at UN climate discussions like COP29.
Climate Change
- Climate change encompasses global warming as well as the resulting shifts in weather patterns, such as storms, droughts, and temperature extremes.
- It includes both natural and human-induced changes, although recent changes are predominantly driven by human activities.
- Climate change impacts ecosystems, agriculture, water resources, and human health.
- Unlike “global warming,” climate change emphasizes the broader consequences of rising temperatures on planetary systems.
Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
- Greenhouse gases trap solar radiation in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.
- Key GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), primarily from fossil fuel combustion, agriculture, and industrial processes.
- Reducing GHG emissions is central to climate mitigation efforts, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
- COP discussions often focus on limiting these emissions to curb further temperature increases.
Net Zero
- Achieving net zero means balancing emitted greenhouse gases with those removed from the atmosphere through methods like carbon capture and reforestation.
- The goal does not require zero emissions but a net-neutral impact to prevent further increases in atmospheric GHG levels.
- Many nations have set net-zero targets, generally aiming for 2050, to limit global warming.
- COP discussions often focus on pathways to achieve net zero, crucial for stabilizing climate systems.
Loss and Damage
- Loss and damage refer to the financial resources required to address the irreversible impacts of climate change on vulnerable nations.
- COP28 saw the establishment of an $800 million fund to assist poorer nations facing climate disasters.
- At COP29, this fund’s administration, host country, and strategies for effective disbursement are key discussion points.
- Loss and damage is a contentious issue, with developing countries demanding greater financial support from wealthier nations.
Carbon Offset
- A carbon offset, or carbon credit, allows organizations to compensate for emissions by investing in emissions-reduction projects elsewhere.
- These projects can include reforestation, renewable energy initiatives, and carbon capture.
- The offsets provide a market-based solution for companies to meet carbon reduction targets while continuing some emissions.
- At COP29, governments aim to formalize international rules for trading these offsets to ensure transparency and accountability.
Article 6 (Paris Agreement)
- Article 6 provides the framework for voluntary cooperation among nations in meeting climate goals through carbon markets.
- It sets guidelines for trading carbon credits, ensuring environmental integrity and transparency.
- Countries can achieve part of their NDCs by purchasing credits from others that have exceeded their targets.
- At COP29, discussions focus on establishing operational rules for Article 6, which could enhance global cooperation on emissions reduction.
5. The underbelly of Europe’s digital euro
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 11)
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Digital Euro: Overview
- Purpose: The digital euro is a central bank digital currency (CBDC) being developed by the European Central Bank (ECB) to offer an alternative to current cashless payment methods like credit cards, apps, and cryptocurrencies.
- Launch: The preparation phase began in November 2023, with the goal of creating a state-issued, cost-effective payment system.
Key Features
- Direct Payments: It allows users to make payments directly from a digital wallet without involving banks or payment gateways, using Bluetooth, browser extensions, or smartphones.
- Centralised Control: Unlike digital currencies like cryptocurrencies, the digital euro is issued and managed by the ECB.
- Micro Payments: Aims to reduce costs for small transactions which are currently expensive due to intermediaries.
Advantages
- Anonymity: It can allow anonymous offline transactions, maintaining cash-like features in the digital world.
- Sovereignty: Strengthens Europe’s monetary sovereignty by reducing dependence on foreign payment systems, such as those from the U.S.
- Competition: The digital euro also aims to compete with foreign digital payment systems, asserting Europe’s economic influence globally.
6. LignoSat: World’s First Wooden Satellite Launched to Test Sustainable Space Materials
(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 13)
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Analysis of News:
Structure and Unique Design
- LignoSat is a compact satellite, measuring only 10 cm on each side and weighing 900 grams.
- It is crafted from magnolia wood using traditional Japanese woodworking methods without screws or adhesives, emphasizing sustainability and durability.
- The wood’s design reflects a vision for a future where timber may become a staple material in space habitats, thanks to its renewable nature.
Testing Wood’s Durability in Space
- The satellite’s six-month mission in orbit will monitor wood’s resilience against extreme temperature changes, radiation, and other space hazards.
- Notably, wood’s use in aerospace is not unprecedented—early airplanes were constructed with wood, and even modern spacecraft utilize cork-based wood as a heat shield.
- Researchers believe wood may eventually substitute some metals in space, as it is more durable in space due to the absence of water and oxygen that typically degrade wood on Earth.
Addressing Space Pollution with a Sustainable Alternative
- LignoSat’s wooden design may present an eco-friendly solution to space debris pollution.
- Conventional satellites often use aluminum, which releases harmful gases upon reentry, potentially impacting the Earth’s ozone layer.
- Wood, on the other hand, would burn up without releasing such pollutants, offering a greener option for satellite construction.
Future Prospects: Timber in Space Habitats
- Experts envisions a future where wood is used not only in satellites but also in building structures on celestial bodies like the Moon and Mars.
- By proving wood as a space-grade material, LignoSat’s mission could pave the way for sustainable living in space, aligning with goals to reduce environmental impact and manage orbital debris effectively.
7. 2024 Set to Become Warmest Year on Record, Driven by El Niño and Rapid Ocean Warming: WMO Report
(Source: Indian Express; Section: Govt & Politics; Page: 08)
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Analysis of News:
About World Meteorological Organization
- It is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN).
- It is the UN system’s authoritative voice on the state and behavior of the Earth’s atmosphere, its interaction with the oceans, the climate it produces, and the resulting distribution of water resources.
- It originated from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), which was founded in 1873.
- Established in 1950, WMO became the specialized agency of the UN for meteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences.
- Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
- Currently it has a membership of 191 countries.
- Governance Structure:
- Its supreme body is the World Meteorological Congress, which consists of representatives of all members. It meets at least every four years to set general policy and adopt regulations.
- A 36-member Executive Council meets annually and implements policy.
- The Secretariat, headed by a secretary-generalappointed by the congress for a four-year term, serves as the administrative centre of the organization.
Rising Temperatures Due to El Niño
- According to the WMO’s “Statement of Climate 2024” report, global surface air temperatures from January to September 2024 were 1.54°C above pre-industrial levels.
- This increase has been significantly influenced by an ongoing El Niño event, which has sustained above-average temperatures worldwide for 16 consecutive months.
Ocean Heat Trends and Depleting Sea Ice
- The report underscores continued ocean warming, with ocean heat levels remaining high. Additionally, 2024 witnessed alarming reductions in sea ice at both poles.
- Antarctic sea ice hit its second-lowest annual minimum of 2 million sq km and an annual maximum of 17.2 million sq km, while Arctic sea ice fared relatively better with a minimum of 4.3 million sq km and a maximum of 15.2 million sq km.
Long-term Warming Concerns
- While the short-term temperature rise is significant, the report notes that long-term global warming remains below the critical 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement.
- However, the persistence of high temperatures suggests a challenging road ahead in controlling global warming within desired limits.
