24 Feb 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. U.S. piles new sanctions on Russia on war’s anniversary 2. West pushing Russia closer to China, says Jaishankar 3. Delhi approaches Moscow for early discharge of Indian ‘army helpers’ SOCIAL JUSTICE 1. Centre amends surrogacy rules, allows couples to use donor gametes C. GS 3 Related ECONOMY 1. India’s stance on data transfers at WTO spooks semiconductor industry giants D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. The NB8 visit to India focuses on cooperation and trust F. Prelims Facts 1. ‘Froze’ participation in security bloc: Armenia 2. ISRO: PAPA detects solar wind impact of coronal mass ejections G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
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B. GS 2 Related
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. U.S. piles new sanctions on Russia on war’s anniversary
Syllabus: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Mains: US-Russia relations
Context: The United States and the European Union have intensified their sanctions against Russia, coinciding with the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and in response to the death of Alexei Navalny. The sanctions target various sectors including Russia’s financial sector, defense industrial base, and procurement networks.
Issues
- Russian Aggression: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and subsequent actions have raised concerns globally.
- Navalny’s Death: Alexei Navalny, a prominent Kremlin critic, died in an Arctic penal colony, leading to international condemnation.
- Export of Dual-Use Goods: Allegations of foreign companies exporting dual-use goods to Russia, potentially aiding its military efforts.
Significance
- Global Stability: The sanctions aim to deter further Russian aggression and promote stability in the region.
- Justice for Navalny: Targeting individuals associated with Navalny’s imprisonment seeks to hold Russia accountable for human rights abuses.
- Support for Ukraine: The measures demonstrate support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Solutions
- Multilateral Action: Collaboration between the US and EU increases the effectiveness of sanctions.
- Financial Pressure: Targeting Russia’s financial sector aims to impose economic costs on the country.
- Legal Measures: The use of asset freezes, travel bans, and indictments aims to restrict the activities of key individuals and entities.
Nut Graf: The imposition of new sanctions by the US and the EU reflects a unified response to Russian aggression and human rights violations. These measures seek to impose costs on Russia’s actions in Ukraine and hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses.
2. West pushing Russia closer to China, says Jaishankar
Syllabus: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Mains: Russia coming closer to China and its impact on India and the world
Context: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of offering Russia more options instead of isolating it, which could inadvertently push it closer to China. He highlighted concerns about China’s “mind games” and its behaviour at the border, urging countries to avoid falling into its strategic traps.
Issues
- Russian Options: Concerns about Western countries closing doors on Russia, potentially pushing it towards closer ties with China.
- Chinese Mind Games: Allegations against China for playing strategic mind games to deter countries from engaging with other partners.
- Border Tensions: Reference to the India-China border standoff and China’s changing behaviour since then.
Significance
- Diplomatic Balance: Maintaining a balanced approach towards Russia and China is crucial for global diplomacy.
- Avoiding Isolation: Isolating Russia could lead to unintended consequences, including strengthening its relationship with China.
- India’s Strategic Autonomy: India’s refusal to allow any country, including China, to dictate its policy choices underscores its commitment to strategic autonomy.
Solutions
- Offering Options: Providing Russia with multiple diplomatic and economic options could prevent its over-reliance on China.
- Resilient Diplomacy: Countries should remain vigilant against strategic manipulations by China and ensure cooperation with diverse partners.
- Engagement with Russia: Continued engagement with Russia, recognizing its diplomatic tradition and capabilities, can help in fostering a multipolar world order.
Nut Graf: The above remarks highlight the complexities of global geopolitics and the need for nuanced diplomatic strategies. Balancing relations with both Russia and China while safeguarding national interests is imperative for maintaining stability and promoting cooperation in the international arena.
3. Delhi approaches Moscow for early discharge of Indian ‘army helpers’
Syllabus: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Mains: India and Russia relations
Context: The Ministry of External Affairs of India has taken steps to address the involvement of Indian nationals working as support staff with the Russian Army in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Concerns have been raised about Indian citizens being forced to fight alongside Russian forces, prompting diplomatic action from India.
Issues
- Involvement of Indian Nationals: Reports indicate that Indian citizens hired as support staff by the Russian Army have been compelled to participate in combat along the Ukraine border.
- Diplomatic Intervention: The Ministry of External Affairs has engaged with Russian authorities to secure the early discharge of Indian nationals involved in support roles.
- Safety Concerns: The safety and well-being of Indian citizens amidst the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine are paramount.
Significance
- Legal and Ethical Implications: The forced involvement of Indian nationals in combat raises legal and ethical questions regarding their rights and protections under international law.
- Diplomatic Relations: India’s diplomatic efforts to secure the discharge of its citizens demonstrate the importance of maintaining bilateral relations with Russia while safeguarding the interests of Indian nationals.
- Humanitarian Concerns: Ensuring the safety and repatriation of Indian citizens caught in conflict zones underscores India’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
Solutions
- Diplomatic Engagement: Continued dialogue and cooperation with Russian authorities are essential to facilitate the early discharge and repatriation of Indian nationals involved in support roles.
- Consular Assistance: The Indian embassy should provide necessary support and assistance to affected Indian citizens, including legal aid and consular services.
- Preventive Measures: Indian nationals should exercise caution and refrain from engaging in activities that could expose them to risks in conflict zones. Enhanced awareness campaigns and advisories from the Indian government can help mitigate such situations.
Nut Graf: India’s proactive approach in addressing the involvement of Indian nationals in support roles with the Russian Army underscores its commitment to protecting the welfare and interests of its citizens abroad. Diplomatic efforts to secure their early discharge and repatriation are crucial in ensuring their safety amidst the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Category: SOCIAL JUSTICE
1. Centre amends surrogacy rules, allows couples to use donor gametes
Syllabus: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by centre and states
Prelims: Surrogacy rules
Mains: Provisions of the surrogacy act
Context: The Union government has amended the Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules, 2022, allowing couples facing medical conditions to use donor gametes in surrogacy procedures. Additionally, single women (widow or divorcee) undergoing surrogacy are now permitted to use self-eggs and donor sperm. This amendment follows petitions and scrutiny from the Supreme Court regarding the restrictions on donor gametes in surrogacy.
Issues
- Restrictions on Donor Gametes: Previous rules mandated that both gametes in surrogacy procedures must come from the intending couple, posing challenges for couples facing medical conditions.
- Supreme Court Scrutiny: The Supreme Court received petitions questioning the restrictions on donor gametes and urged the Centre to reconsider its stance on surrogacy regulations.
- Patient Rights: Concerns were raised about the impact of restrictive regulations on the fundamental rights of patients undergoing surrogacy and their access to assisted reproductive technologies.
Significance
- Medical Flexibility: The amendment allows couples facing medical conditions to use donor gametes, providing them with more options for surrogacy and addressing their specific medical needs.
- Gender Inclusivity: Single women, including widows and divorcees, can now undergo surrogacy procedures using self-eggs and donor sperm, promoting gender inclusivity in assisted reproductive technologies.
- Legal Clarity: The amendment clarifies surrogacy regulations and aligns them with evolving medical practices and patient rights, providing a legal framework that safeguards the interests of all parties involved.
Solutions
- Flexibility in Surrogacy Regulations: Continuously review and update surrogacy regulations to accommodate advancements in medical technology and address the diverse needs of intending parents.
- Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with medical professionals, legal experts, and stakeholders to ensure that surrogacy regulations strike a balance between patient rights, ethical considerations, and legal requirements.
- Awareness and Education: Promote awareness about surrogacy regulations, rights of intending parents, and ethical considerations among the public, healthcare providers, and legal professionals to facilitate informed decision-making.
Nut Graf: The amendment to the Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules, 2022, allowing the use of donor gametes for couples facing medical conditions and permitting single women to undergo surrogacy using self-eggs and donor sperm, reflects a step towards inclusivity, patient rights, and alignment with evolving medical practices.
C. GS 3 Related
Category: ECONOMY
1. India’s stance on data transfers at WTO spooks semiconductor industry giants
Syllabus: Economic growth in India and Manufacturing sector
Mains: India’s stance on data transfers at WTO
Context: India’s stance on data transfers at the World Trade Organization (WTO) has raised concerns among semiconductor industry giants, who fear that proposed duties on cross-border digital e-commerce and data transfers could stifle India’s chip design industry. As global ministers convene for a WTO meeting, India, along with other developing nations, opposes efforts by the US and Europe to extend the moratorium on applying duties on electronic transmissions.
Issues
- Opposition to Moratorium Extension: Developing nations like India, South Africa, and Indonesia oppose extending the moratorium on applying duties on electronic transmissions, citing potential revenue losses and the need for tariff regulations on digital services.
- Impact on Chip Design Industry: The collapse of the moratorium could lead to tariffs on digital e-commerce and data transfers, exacerbating chip shortages and raising costs for the semiconductor industry.
- India’s Semiconductor Growth: India views the semiconductor sector as crucial for economic growth, with significant investments and incentives aimed at boosting the industry. However, proposed duties on data transfers could impede India’s semiconductor ambitions.
Significance
- Economic Implications: The imposition of duties on data transfers could lead to increased costs, reduced competitiveness, and hindered growth for the semiconductor industry, impacting global supply chains and economic stability.
- Investment Climate: India’s stance on the moratorium extension sends signals to semiconductor companies about the country’s investment-friendly environment and commitment to fostering growth in the sector.
- Global Trade Dynamics: The debate over digital tariffs at the WTO reflects broader tensions between developed and developing nations regarding trade regulations and the digital economy.
Solutions
- Balanced Approach: Advocate for a balanced approach to digital tariffs at the WTO, considering the needs of both developed and developing nations while promoting innovation, competitiveness, and economic growth.
- Collaborative Engagement: Engage in constructive dialogue with stakeholders, including semiconductor industry groups, to address concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions that support global trade and semiconductor industry development.
- Policy Alignment: Align domestic policies with international trade norms and best practices to create a conducive environment for semiconductor industry growth while ensuring fair and equitable trade practices.
Nut Graf: India’s stance on data transfers at the WTO raises critical issues regarding the balance between trade regulations, economic growth, and semiconductor industry development. As global ministers gather to discuss these matters, it is imperative to seek solutions that support innovation, competitiveness, and inclusive growth while addressing concerns about tariffs and revenue losses.
D. GS 4 Related
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E. Editorials
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. The NB8 visit to India focuses on cooperation and trust
Syllabus: GS-2, Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.
Mains: Importance of the NB8 visit to India
Context: The visit of the Nordic-Baltic (NB8) delegation to India underscores the importance of cooperation and trust amidst global turmoil and conflict. Representing eight countries, the delegation emphasizes the need for dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to international law to defend peace, stability, and the rules-based world order.
Issues
- Global Cooperation: Amidst geopolitical shifts and challenges, cooperation among nations is essential for addressing shared concerns.
- Security Interdependence: The security of the Nordic-Baltic region and the Indo-Pacific are interconnected, necessitating collaborative efforts to tackle traditional and non-traditional security threats.
- Impact of Conflict: Russia’s war against Ukraine has significant repercussions on global food and energy security, supply chains, stability, and growth, underscoring the need for collective action.
Significance
- Common Values: The NB8 countries share a commitment to democracy, human rights, and multilateralism, fostering a productive partnership with India based on shared values.
- Diverse Cooperation: Collaboration between India and the NB8 spans various fields including innovation, green transition, maritime, health, technology, culture, and trade, contributing to common goals.
- Global Leadership: India’s increasing role in international politics, exemplified by its G-20 presidency, is crucial for addressing global challenges and promoting security and prosperity.
Solutions
- Enhanced Cooperation: Strengthening cooperation between India and the NB8 on positive agendas such as development, health, green transition, and peace can yield tangible benefits for both regions.
- Upholding International Law: Upholding international law and principles such as territorial integrity and sovereignty is imperative in addressing conflicts and promoting stability.
- Support for Peace Efforts: Supporting Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts for peace, based on international law and justice, is essential for resolving conflicts and restoring stability in the region.
Nut Graf: The NB8 delegation’s visit to India highlights the importance of partnership, trust, and cooperation in addressing global challenges and promoting peace and stability. By deepening their partnership with India and fostering dialogue on shared agendas, the NB8 countries aim to contribute to a more positive global agenda for cooperation and development.
F. Prelims Facts
1. ‘Froze’ participation in security bloc: Armenia
Context: Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced the suspension of Armenia’s participation in the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), a Russia-led security bloc. This decision marks a significant shift in Armenia’s relations with Russia and reflects growing tensions between the two countries, particularly concerning the handling of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Issues
- Strained Relations: Relations between Russia and Armenia deteriorated following the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, where Russian peacekeepers did not intervene to prevent Azerbaijan from taking control of the region from Armenian separatists.
- CSTO Boycott: Armenia boycotted a CSTO summit in protest, citing the bloc’s failure to fulfil its objectives in protecting Armenia’s interests during the conflict.
- Allegations of Propaganda: Prime Minister Pashinyan accused Moscow of leading a coordinated propaganda campaign against his government, further exacerbating tensions.
Significance
- Geopolitical Implications: Armenia’s suspension of participation in the CSTO signals a shift in its geopolitical alignment and reflects its efforts to assert independence from Russian influence.
- Regional Security Dynamics: The CSTO’s efficacy in addressing regional security concerns, particularly in conflicts involving former Soviet republics, comes under scrutiny with Armenia’s withdrawal.
- Domestic Politics: Prime Minister Pashinyan’s decision to distance Armenia from the CSTO and Russia could impact domestic politics, potentially influencing public perception of his leadership and government’s policies.
2. ISRO: PAPA detects solar wind impact of coronal mass ejections
Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has reported a significant milestone in space research, with the Plasma Analyser Package for Aditya (PAPA) detecting the impact of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) onboard the Aditya-L1 spacecraft. This achievement marks a crucial advancement in understanding solar phenomena and monitoring space weather conditions.
Issues
- Solar Phenomena Detection: PAPA, equipped with advanced sensors, has successfully detected the impact of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) during a specific period, offering valuable insights into solar activities.
- Functional Capabilities: PAPA comprises the Solar Wind Electron Energy Probe (SWEEP) and the Solar Wind Ion Composition Analyser (SWICAR), enabling in-situ measurements of solar wind electrons and ions in varying energy ranges.
- Operational Performance: PAPA has been operational since December 2023, demonstrating consistent performance and effectiveness in monitoring space weather conditions.
Significance
- Advancement in Space Research: The successful detection of CME impacts by PAPA highlights India’s growing capabilities in space research and contributes to the global understanding of solar phenomena.
- Space Weather Monitoring: PAPA’s continuous observations of solar wind electrons and ions enable the monitoring of space weather conditions, crucial for assessing potential impacts on satellite communications, navigation systems, and other space-based technologies.
- Enhanced Preparedness: Insights provided by PAPA facilitate improved preparedness against space weather events, allowing for timely mitigation measures and safeguarding critical infrastructure in space.
G. Tidbits
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H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements:
- Kaziranga National Park in Assam and Chitwan National Park in Sikkim are two important hubs of Indian Rhinos.
- The Indian state of Assam is home to the largest population of greater-one-horned rhinos, with more than 90% in Kaziranga National Park.
Which of the above statements is/are true?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- 1 & 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: The Indian state of Assam is home to the largest population of greater-one-horned rhinos, with more than 90% in Kaziranga National Park. No more than 2,000 remain in the wild, with only two populations containing more than 100 rhinos: Kaziranga National Park in Assam, India (1,200) and Chitwan National Park (CNP), Nepal (600).
Q2. Consider the following statements:
- Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Power Plant is the biggest underground hydroelectric power project in the country. It is located in Himachal Pradesh.
- The largest coal mine in India in terms of reserves and production is the Jharia Coalfield located in the state of Bihar.
Which of the above statements is/are true?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- 1 & 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation: Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Power Plant is the biggest underground hydroelectric power project in the country. It is located in Himachal Pradesh. Jharia Coalfield is a large coal field located in the east of India in Jharia, Jharkhand. Jharia represents the largest coal reserves in India having estimated reserves of 19.4 billion tonnes of coking coal.
Q3. Which of the following Indian states does not come under the ambit of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve?
- Kerala
- Karnataka
- Andhra Pradesh
- Tamil Nadu
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: Indian states that come under the ambit of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve are Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was the first and the oldest biosphere and was established in 1986. It includes Nagarhole, Kabini, Bandipur, Mudumalai, and Mukurthi is its region. It is a world heritage site, approved by UNESCO. Due to its diverse ecosystem, there is a wide variety and animals and plant species. Many of these species are rare and endangered.
Q4. Consider the following statements:
- The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1989 on the initiative of the G7, to combat global money laundering and terrorist financing.
- FATF Black List includes non-cooperative countries or territories (NCCTs), that support terror funding and money laundering activities.
Which of the above statements is/are true?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- 1 & 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1989 on the initiative of the G7, to combat global money laundering and terrorist financing. FATF Black List includes non-cooperative countries or territories (NCCTs), that support terror funding and money laundering activities.
Q5. Which one of the following categories of Fundamental Rights incorporates protection against untouchability as a form of discrimination?
- Right against Exploitation
- Right to Freedom
- Right to Constitutional Remedies
- Right to Equality
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: Right to Equality – The Fundamental Rights incorporate protection against untouchability as a form of discrimination.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- The Russia – Ukraine crisis has hurt the world including India on several fronts. Comment. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, International Relations]
- What is surrogacy and what are the issues surrounding it in India? (10 marks, 150 words) [GS-2, Social Justice]
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