28 May 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

28 May 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
C. GS 3 Related
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Chabahar’s opportunities and challenges
ECONOMY
1. India relies on China for most electronic and electrical goods
F. Prelims Facts
1. Six killed, life severely affected as Cyclone Remal batters south Bengal
2. The controversy over eucalyptus planting in Kerala
3. More than 2,000 buried in Papua New Guinea landslip
4. China agrees to revive cooperation with Seoul, Tokyo, but miffed by their U.S. ties
G. Tidbits
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
FIP Magazine

Category: ECONOMY

1. India relies on China for most electronic and electrical goods

Syllabus: GS-3, Effects of Liberalization on the Economy

Mains: Surging Import from China and its possible repercussions

Introduction:

  • India relies heavily on China for electronic and electrical goods.
  • Over 50% of India’s mobiles, automatic data processing units, and semiconductor devices are sourced from China.

Trade Partnerships and Deficits:

  • In FY24, China was India’s top trading partner for the sixth time in the past decade, surpassing the U.S.
  • China’s status is due to high import volumes from China, while India’s exports to China are relatively low.
  • India’s trade deficit with China is growing the fastest in absolute terms compared to other partners.
  • Conversely, India exports more to the U.S. than it imports, resulting in a widening trade surplus with the U.S.

Export and Import Trends:

  • Exports and Imports with China and the U.S.:
    • Imports from China have surged, while exports to China remain stagnant.
    • Both exports to and imports from the U.S. have increased, with exports rising more significantly.
  • Trade Balance Highlights:
    • India’s trade surplus with the U.S. reached $36.7 billion in FY24, the highest ever.
    • India’s trade deficit with China hit $85.1 billion in FY24, also the highest ever.
    • India has trade deficits with most major partners, except for a few like the Netherlands.

Significant Trade Developments:

  • Russia: The trade deficit with Russia increased from $6.6 billion in FY22 to $57.2 billion in FY24, mainly due to discounted oil imports.
  • Netherlands:
    • India’s trade surplus with the Netherlands has grown, linked to Russia sanctions.
    • Indian refineries process Russian crude oil into petroleum products, which are then sold to the Netherlands.

Electronic and Electrical Imports from China:

  • Major Imports:
    • From FY15 to FY24, India imported $75 billion worth of mobiles/telephones, the largest component.
    • Other significant imports include automatic data processing units ($37 billion), semiconductor devices and diodes ($28 billion), and electronic integrated circuits ($27 billion).
  • Dependency on China:
    • India sourced 54% of its mobiles/telephones, 56% of automatic data processing units, 70% of semiconductor devices and diodes, and 32% of electronic integrated circuits from China during this period.

Nut Graf: India’s trade with China, dominated by imports of electronics and electrical goods, has made China its top trading partner, resulting in a significant trade deficit. Conversely, India enjoys a trade surplus with the U.S., exporting more than it imports.

F. Prelims Facts

1. Six killed, life severely affected as Cyclone Remal batters south Bengal

Context: Cyclone Remal has wreaked havoc across the southern districts of West Bengal, leading to significant loss of life and property. With wind speeds reaching 120 kmph, the cyclone has left behind a trail of destruction, severely impacting the lives of residents in the region.

Impact and Casualties

  • Loss of Life: Six individuals lost their lives due to various incidents related to the cyclone, including collapsed structures and electrocution.
  • Kolkata: One death due to a collapsed roof in Entally; another due to electrocution in Metiabruz.
  • Mousuni Island: An elderly woman was killed by a falling tree.
  • Purba Bardhaman: A man and his son were electrocuted.
  • North 24 Parganas: A youth was electrocuted.

Destruction and Displacement

  • Evacuation: Over 200,000 people were evacuated to safer locations.
  • Housing Damage: Approximately 2,500 houses were destroyed and 27,000 were damaged.
  • Infrastructure: 1,700 electric poles downed, numerous trees uprooted.

Weather and Environmental Impact

  • Rainfall: Kolkata received 144 mm of rain, leading to widespread waterlogging.
  • Other Areas: Haldia (110 mm), Tamluk (70 mm), Nimpith (70 mm).
  • Wind Speed: Reached 120 kmph over Sagar Island.

Disruptions

  • Transportation: Significant disruption of public transport; Kolkata Metro services halted, local train services affected, and flights suspended for nearly 20 hours.
  • Utilities: Numerous power outages due to downed electric poles and waterlogging in underground metro tracks.

Issues

Vulnerability to Cyclones

  • Coastal regions of West Bengal, including Kolkata, are highly susceptible to cyclones, as evidenced by previous cyclones like Amphan in 2020.

Infrastructure Resilience

  • Inadequate drainage systems in urban areas lead to severe waterlogging.
  • Fragile electric infrastructure susceptible to high winds.

Disaster Management and Response

  • Despite significant efforts, timely and effective evacuation remains challenging.
  • Post-disaster restoration of normalcy, especially in transportation and power supply, faces delays.

2. The controversy over eucalyptus planting in Kerala

Context: The Kerala government’s decision to permit the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to plant eucalyptus trees has sparked significant controversy. Environmentalists and social activists oppose the move, citing potential adverse effects on forests and increased human-animal conflicts.

Background on KFDC and its Plantations

  • KFDC Establishment: Founded on January 24, 1975, as a production forestry enterprise.
  • Plantation Details: KFDC manages around 7,000 hectares of plantations, including species like Eucalyptus grandis, Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia mangium, Acacia crassicarpa, Acacia pycnantha, Alnus nepalensis, Casuarina equisetifolia, and Pinus patula.
  • Rotation Ages: Eucalyptus (9 years), Acacia auriculiformis (18 years), Acacia mangium (7 years).
  • Plantation Management: Clear-felled plantations are replanted with species from a management plan, ensuring soil quality and consulting with the Kerala Forest Research Institute.

Government Order and Subsequent Amendment

  • Initial Order: The Kerala government allowed KFDC to plant eucalyptus for financial sustenance in 2024-2025.
  • Protests: Environmentalists protested, arguing it would harm forests and increase human-animal conflicts.
  • Amendment: On May 20, the government restricted the order to permit only the cutting of exotic species from KFDC-controlled lands.

Issues

Conflict with Eco-Restoration Policy

  • Eco-Restoration Policy: Published in 2021, aims to address invasive species and restore natural forests.
  • Policy Goals: Mitigate human-wildlife conflict and restore habitats by replacing exotic plants with native species.
  • Contradiction: The KFDC’s eucalyptus planting was seen as contradicting the eco-restoration policy and efforts to manage invasive species.

Environmental and Ecological Concerns

  • Invasive Species: Eucalyptus and other exotic species deplete natural forests and ecosystems.
  • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Exotic plantations push wild animals, like elephants, into human territories in search of food.
  • Ecological Impact: Invasive species cause significant damage to natural habitats and biodiversity.

Economic and Social Implications

  • KFDC’s Financial Needs: The corporation needs sustainable income sources.
  • Community Impact: Local communities are affected by the increase in human-animal conflicts due to altered forest landscapes.

Solutions

Alternative Strategies for KFDC

  • Diversification: Explore alternative, sustainable revenue sources that do not harm the environment.
  • Eco-Friendly Plantations: Transition to planting native species that support local ecosystems.

Enhanced Policy Implementation

  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly assess the impact of plantations on ecosystems and adjust policies accordingly.
  • Stakeholder Involvement: Engage environmentalists, local communities, and scientists in decision-making processes.

Educational and Awareness Programs

  • Community Education: Raise awareness about the importance of native species and eco-restoration.
  • Training for KFDC: Provide training on sustainable forestry practices and eco-restoration techniques.

3. More than 2,000 buried in Papua New Guinea landslip

Context: A catastrophic landslip in Papua New Guinea has reportedly buried over 2,000 people alive in the village of Yambali in Enga province. The incident has prompted the Papua New Guinea government to seek international assistance. The disaster’s scale and the challenging conditions in the area have made accurate assessments and relief efforts difficult.

Incident Details

  • Location: Yambali village, Enga province, Papua New Guinea.
  • Date: Friday (specific date not provided).
  • Initial Estimates: The UN initially estimated 670 casualties.
  • Government Report: The acting director of the National Disaster Center, Luseta Laso Mana, reported over 2,000 buried alive.
  • Recovered Bodies: Only six bodies have been recovered so far.

Challenges in Assessment and Relief Efforts

  • Remote Location: The affected village’s remote and mountainous location complicates access.
  • Lack of Telecommunications: Communication barriers hinder coordination and information dissemination.
  • Tribal Warfare: Ongoing conflicts in the province necessitate military escorts for aid workers and convoys.
  • Population Estimates: Discrepancies in population estimates further complicate the situation, with government estimates around 10 million and a UN study suggesting up to 17 million.

Issues

Humanitarian Crisis

  • Casualty Uncertainty: Varied estimates highlight the uncertainty and potential scale of the disaster.
  • Infrastructure Damage: Major destruction reported in Yambali village, affecting homes and essential infrastructure.
  • Survivor Needs: Immediate needs include search and rescue operations, medical aid, shelter, and food.

Logistical and Security Challenges

  • Access Difficulties: The remote and rugged terrain of the village makes it hard to reach.
  • Security Concerns: Tribal conflicts pose significant risks to aid workers, requiring military protection.

Population and Data Accuracy

  • Population Discrepancies: Inaccurate population data complicates planning and allocation of resources.
  • Communication Barriers: Poor telecommunications infrastructure hampers coordination and timely response.

Solutions

Immediate Relief and Support

  • Search and Rescue: Mobilize local and international search and rescue teams to locate and aid survivors.
  • Medical Assistance: Provide urgent medical care to the injured and prevent disease outbreaks.
  • Humanitarian Aid: Distribute essential supplies such as food, water, and shelter materials to affected communities.

Long-Term Recovery and Resilience Building

  • Infrastructure Rebuilding: Reconstruct homes, schools, and healthcare facilities destroyed by the landslip.
  • Disaster Preparedness: Implement robust early warning systems and disaster response plans.
  • Community Education: Educate communities on landslip risks and safety measures.

International Cooperation

  • Aid Coordination: Ensure efficient coordination between the Papua New Guinea government, UN, and international NGOs.
  • Funding and Resources: Secure international funding and resources for both immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts.

4. China agrees to revive cooperation with Seoul, Tokyo, but miffed by their U.S. ties

Context: China’s Premier Li Qiang met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to revive trilateral cooperation between their nations. This meeting marked the first such trilateral discussion in over four years. While the focus was on enhancing cooperation in various areas, China’s concerns about Japan and South Korea’s expanding security ties with the United States were evident.

Meeting Details and Agendas

  • Participants: Chinese Premier Li Qiang, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
  • Location: Seoul, South Korea.
  • Discussion Topics: Economic cooperation, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, safe supply chain networks, environmental and health issues, and regional peace.

Key Agreements

  • Economic Cooperation: Emphasis on enhancing economic ties and collaboration on economic challenges.
  • Cultural Exchanges: Promotion of people-to-people and cultural exchanges to strengthen mutual understanding and friendship.
  • Supply Chain Networks: Establishment of secure and resilient supply chains.
  • Regional Peace: Commitment to work together for regional stability and peace.
  • Future Meetings: Agreement for Japan to chair the next trilateral leaders’ meeting.

Signs of Disapproval

  • Security Concerns: Premier Li expressed China’s unease regarding Japan and South Korea’s deepening security ties with the United States.
  • Perception of Containment: China views the strengthening of U.S. alliances with Japan and South Korea as a strategic move to contain China’s influence in the region.

Issues

Geopolitical Tensions

  • China-U.S. Rivalry: The expanding security cooperation between Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. is seen by China as a threat, contributing to geopolitical tensions.
  • Regional Stability: The trilateral cooperation must navigate the complex dynamics of regional security and geopolitical rivalry.

Economic Interdependence vs. Security Concerns

  • Economic Ties: Strong economic interdependence among the three nations necessitates cooperation despite political and security differences.
  • Security Dilemmas: Japan and South Korea’s security alliances with the U.S. complicate their economic and diplomatic relations with China.

Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges

  • Mutual Understanding: Promoting cultural exchanges is crucial for reducing misunderstandings and fostering trust among the nations.
  • Historical Animosities: Historical issues and territorial disputes can hinder efforts to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Significance

Regional Peace and Stability

  • Collective Responsibility: The three countries play a significant role in maintaining peace and stability in East Asia.
  • Conflict Prevention: Trilateral cooperation can serve as a platform for dialogue and conflict prevention in the region.

Economic Growth

  • Synergistic Benefits: Economic cooperation among China, South Korea, and Japan can lead to substantial economic growth and development.
  • Supply Chain Resilience: Collaborative efforts can strengthen supply chain resilience, benefiting all three economies.

Strategic Balance

  • Balancing Interests: The trilateral meetings help balance the strategic interests of the three nations amidst the broader U.S.-China rivalry.
  • Diplomatic Channels: Regular dialogue provides a platform to address and manage geopolitical tensions.

G. Tidbits

Nothing here for today!!!

H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. This tiger reserve lies along the India-Nepal border in the foothills of the 
Himalayas and the plains of the ‘terai’ in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The river 
Gomti originates from the reserve. The tiger reserve being described is:
  1. Pilibhit Tiger Reserve 
  2. Pench Tiger Reserve
  3. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
  4. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation: The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is situated in the Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh, forming part of the Terai Arc Landscape. River Gomti originates from this reserve. 

Q2. The Shahid-Behesti terminal recently seen in the news is a part of:
  1. Bandar Abbas Port
  2. Hambantota Port
  3. Gwadar Port
  4. Chabahar Port
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: d

Explanation: India recently signed a 10-year contract to operate the Shahid Beheshti terminal at Chabahar Port in Iran which will help it expand trade with Central Asia.

Q3. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Exotic Species’:
  1. These species grow in a non-native environment.
  2. They are also known as invasive species or bioinvaders. 

Which of these statements is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation: Both the statements are correct. 

Q4. Consider the following statements with respect to Cyclone Remal:
  1. It is a tropical cyclone.
  2. It was named by Sri Lanka.

Which of these statements is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation: Statement 2 is incorrect. Cyclone Remal was named by Oman. 

Q5. How many of these countries share a border with Ghana?
  1. Ivory Coast
  2. Burkina Faso
  3. Togo

Choose the correct answer using the code given below:

  1. One only
  2. ⁠Two only 
  3. All three 
  4. ⁠None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation: Ghana is bordered by Ivory Coast in the west, Burkina Faso in the north, and Togo in the east.

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