24 May 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

F. Prelims Facts

1. Microplastics found in fish in Ashtamudi Lake: study

Context: A recent study has revealed the alarming extent of microplastic pollution in Ashtamudi Lake, a Ramsar wetland in Kerala’s Kollam district. The research highlights the pervasive presence of microplastics in fish, shellfish, sediment, and water, underscoring significant public health concerns and the need for ongoing monitoring.

Microplastic Contamination

• Scope of Study: Conducted by the Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, with support from the Ecomarine Project co-funded by the Erasmus Programme of the EU.
• Findings: Published in Elsevier’s Journal of Contaminant Hydrology, the study found that microplastics were prevalent in the lake’s ecosystem.
• Fish: 19.6% composition of microplastics.
• Shellfish: 40.9% composition of microplastics.
• Sediment and Water: Microplastics were detected extensively.

Composition and Risks

Polymer Types: Microplastics in the fish and shellfish gut included:

• Nylon
• Polyurethane
• Polypropylene
• Polyethylene
• Polysiloxane

Heavy Metals: Presence of hazardous metals such as:

• Molybdenum
• Iron
• Barium
• These metals potentially adsorbed from the environment pose significant risks to both aquatic life and humans consuming these organisms.
• Environmental and Public Health Impact
• Ecological Threat: The contamination threatens the lake’s biota, which is critical for maintaining ecological balance.
• Human Health Concerns: Consuming contaminated fish and shellfish may pose health risks due to the accumulation of microplastics and heavy metals.

Issues

• Pollution Source: Increased plastic waste leading to microplastic contamination in aquatic ecosystems.
• Lack of Awareness: Insufficient public awareness and regulatory measures to control plastic waste.
• Monitoring and Management: Inadequate systems for continuous monitoring and effective management of microplastic pollution.

Significance

• Ramsar Designation: Ashtamudi Lake’s status as a Ramsar site since 2002 highlights its importance for hydrological functions and biodiversity.
• Global Context: The findings are part of a broader concern over microplastic pollution affecting aquatic ecosystems worldwide.
• Urgency for Action: The study emphasizes the need for immediate interventions to mitigate pollution and protect both environmental and public health.

Solutions

• Regulatory Measures: Implement stricter regulations to control plastic waste disposal and manage pollution sources.
• Public Awareness: Increase public education on the impacts of plastic pollution and encourage behavioural changes to reduce plastic use.
• Research and Monitoring: Establish continuous monitoring programs to track microplastic levels and conduct further research on their impact.
• Pollution Mitigation: Develop and promote strategies to prevent the entry of microplastics into aquatic systems, such as improved waste management practices.

2. India to ramp up Africa mineral play

Context: India is intensifying its efforts to secure critical mineral resources in Africa to bolster its resource security and challenge China’s dominance in the region. This strategic move involves multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with several African nations, targeting essential minerals like copper, cobalt, and lithium.

Strategic Partnerships

MoUs with African Nations: India has signed agreements with eight African countries:

• South Africa
• Mozambique
• Congo
• Tanzania
• Zambia
• Malawi
• Republic of Cote d’Ivoire
• Zimbabwe

Focus Areas: The primary focus is on acquiring critical minerals such as:

• Copper
• Cobalt
• Niobium
• Graphite
• Titanium
• Lithium

Competitive Landscape

• China’s Influence: China controls approximately 8% of Africa’s mineral resources, with increasing influence since 2018.
• Global Interest: The competition for critical minerals is particularly fierce around cobalt and copper, essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, with Congo and Zambia being major interest areas.

India’s Strategy

• Government-to-Government (G2G) Negotiations: India is leveraging diplomatic channels for direct government engagements to secure mining rights and collaborations.
• Private Sector Involvement: Encouraging private entities to invest and participate in the exploration, acquisition, and processing of minerals.
• Resource Exploration and Acquisition: Efforts include:
  • Exploration of mineral resources and mines
  • Evaluating acquisition opportunities
  • Ensuring commercial offtake and processing capabilities

Issues

• Geopolitical Competition: Intense competition with China and other nations for mineral resources.
• Resource Security: Ensuring a stable and secure supply of critical minerals essential for India’s technological and industrial growth.
• Sustainability and Ethics: Addressing concerns related to ethical mining practices and sustainable development in partner countries.

Significance

• Economic Growth: Access to critical minerals supports India’s industrial and technological sectors, particularly in renewable energy and EVs.
• Strategic Independence: Reduces reliance on Chinese imports, enhancing India’s geopolitical and economic autonomy.
• Strengthening Ties with Africa: Deepening diplomatic and economic relationships with African nations through strategic partnerships and investments.

Solutions

• Enhanced Diplomatic Efforts: Strengthen diplomatic ties and negotiate favourable terms for mining collaborations.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encourage collaboration between government entities and private companies to share risks and benefits.
• Sustainable Practices: Promote sustainable and ethical mining practices to ensure long-term benefits for both India and African nations.
• Technological Investment: Invest in advanced technologies for efficient exploration, extraction, and processing of minerals.

3. U.S., Kenya urge global leaders to help reduce debt of developing countries

Context: US President Joe Biden and Kenyan President William Ruto have called on global economies to reduce the heavy debt burdens of Kenya and other developing nations. This appeal, part of the Nairobi-Washington Vision, highlights the need for a coordinated international effort to provide debt relief and better financing terms for these countries.

Context and Background

• Nairobi-Washington Vision: Initiative aimed at reducing debt burdens on developing nations, marking the first state visit to the U.S. by an African leader in over 15 years.
• China’s Influence: China’s deep investment in Africa often involves high-interest loans, creating significant financial strain on debtor nations.

Key Aspects of the Call to Action

• Debt Relief: Urging creditor nations to lower financing barriers and coordinate debt relief through multilateral financial institutions.
• Better Financing Terms: Advocating for international financial institutions to offer more favourable terms to developing countries.
• International Support: Emphasizing the need for global cooperation to provide substantial financial support to high-ambition countries.

U.S. Initiatives

• Financial Assistance: The U.S. announced $250 million in grants for the International Development Association to assist crisis-affected poor countries.
• IMF Funding: A $1.2 trillion government funding bill allows the U.S. to lend up to $21 billion to the IMF Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust, which provides zero-interest loans to low-income countries.

Challenges and Issues

• Debt Burden: Countries like Kenya face high debt-to-GDP ratios, with significant portions of government revenues spent on interest payments.
• China’s Debt Practices: China’s reluctance to forgive debt and lack of transparency hinder other lenders’ efforts to assist heavily indebted countries.

Kenya’s Debt Situation

• Debt-to-GDP Ratio: Kenya’s ratio exceeds 70%, with substantial debt owed to China.
• Economic Impact: High debt servicing costs constrain government spending on essential services like education and infrastructure.

Significance

Global Financial System Reform

• Fairer Financial System: The call for a more equitable international financial system aims to ensure equal treatment for all countries.
• Kenya’s Growing Influence: Kenya’s designation as a major non-NATO ally reflects its evolving role as a significant global player, especially in peacekeeping and regional stability.

Broader Implications

• U.S.-Africa Relations: Strengthening ties between the U.S. and African nations can counterbalance China’s influence and promote sustainable development.
• Support for Innovation: Highlighting Africa’s young, innovative population, the initiative encourages private sector investments and technological growth.

Solutions

Policy Recommendations

• Debt Restructuring: Advocate for the restructuring of existing debt to make repayment terms more manageable for developing countries.
• Transparency in Lending: Promote transparency in international lending practices to prevent exploitative financing terms.
• Increased Aid and Investment: Enhance financial aid and encourage private sector investments in infrastructure, education, and technology sectors.

Collaborative Efforts

• Multilateral Cooperation: Strengthen cooperation among international financial institutions to provide coordinated and effective debt relief.
• Capacity Building: Support capacity-building initiatives in developing countries to improve financial management and economic stability.