14 March 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC

PIB Summary for UPSC

14-March -2024

1. LAUNCH OF ‘AGRAY’ AND ‘AKSHAY’ FIFTH AND SIXTH SHIP OF ASW SWC (GRSE) PROJECT ON 13 MAR 24 AT M/S GRSE KOLKATA

Topic: GS3 – Internal Security The news demonstrates India’s progress in indigenous defence production and maritime capabilities, relevant for UPSC’s national security and defence syllabus.

Context

The news highlights the launch of two ASW Shallow Water Craft (SWC) ships, Agray and Akshay, as part of a project by GRSE for the Indian Navy, showcasing India’s commitment to indigenous shipbuilding and defense production.

 Additional information on this news:

• The 5th and 6th ships of the ASW Shallow Water Craft (SWC) Project, named Agray and Akshay, were launched on March 13, 2024, at M/S GRSE, Kolkata.
• The ships are named after the erstwhile Abhay Class Corvettes Agray and Akshay of the Indian Navy.
• The contract for building eight ASW SWC ships was signed between MOD and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) on April 29, 2019.
• The Arnala class of ships will replace the in-service Abhay class ASW Corvettes and are designed for anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), and Mine Laying Operations.
• The ASW SWC ships are 77.6 m long & 105 m wide, with a displacement of 900 tons and endurance of over 1800 NM.
• In the last year, 3 indigenously built warships/submarines for the Indian Navy have been delivered, and a total of 9 warships were launched.
• The project underscores the nation’s commitment to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in shipbuilding, with over 80% indigenous content in the ASW SWC ships.
• The first ship of the project is scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2024, contributing to defence production by Indian manufacturing units and boosting employment and capability enhancement within the country.

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of indigenous shipbuilding projects like the ASW Shallow Water Craft (SWC) in bolstering India’s maritime security. (150 Words /10 marks)

2. Ministry of Heavy Industries announces Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024

Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government Policies – Interventions for development in various sectors The topic highlights government initiatives for sustainable transportation and domestic manufacturing, relevant for UPSC.

Context

The news introduces the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS 2024), with a Rs. 500 crore outlay from April to July 2024, promoting electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers.

Additional information on this news:

• The Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS 2024) aims to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in India.
• It has a total outlay of Rs. 500 crore for the period from April 1 to July 31, 2024.
• The scheme targets electric two-wheelers (e-2W) and three-wheelers (e-3W) to promote green mobility and the development of the EV manufacturing ecosystem.
• Eligible categories include e-2W and e-3W, including registered e-rickshaws, e-carts, and L5 category e-3Ws.
• The focus is on providing affordable and environmentally friendly public transportation options, particularly for commercial purposes.
• Privately or corporate-owned e-2W vehicles are also eligible under the scheme.
• Components of EMPS 2024 include subsidies/demand incentives and administrative costs, totalling Rs. 500 crore.
• Incentives will be extended to vehicles fitted with advanced batteries to encourage technological advancements.
• EMPS 2024 aligns with the vision of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat, promoting an efficient, competitive, and resilient EV manufacturing industry.
• It adopts a Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP) to encourage domestic manufacturing and strengthen the EV supply chain.
• The scheme is expected to create significant employment opportunities across the EV value chain.

Need for shift to electric mobility for India

Need for Electric Mobility in India: Curbing Pollution: Combating air pollution in major Indian cities is crucial for public health. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, significantly reducing air quality issues. Energy Security: India heavily relies on imported fossil fuels. EVs can lessen dependence on foreign oil and promote energy independence. Economic Benefits: Shifting to EVs can create new jobs in manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and renewable energy sectors. Challenges in EV Adoption: High Upfront Cost: Currently, EVs are significantly costlier than traditional vehicles, hindering wider consumer adoption. Limited Charging Infrastructure: The lack of widespread charging stations, especially fast-charging options, creates range anxiety for potential EV owners. Battery Technology: Battery range limitations and long charging times compared to refuelling gasoline vehicles remain a concern. Way Forward: Government Incentives: Subsidies, tax breaks, and low-interest loans can make EVs more affordable and attractive to consumers. Infrastructure Development: Investing in establishing a robust network of charging stations, including home and public options, are crucial. Battery Innovation: Supporting research and development to improve battery range, reduce charging times, and bring down overall costs.

PYQ: The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles? (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2023)

Practice Question:  Explain the significance of the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS 2024) in fostering sustainable transportation and domestic manufacturing. (150 Words /10 marks)

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