05 October 2023 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related C. GS 3 Related DISASTER MANAGEMENT 1. Seven dead as glacial lake bursts in Sikkim D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials ENVIRONMENT 1. Keeping tabs on carbon with an accounting system ECONOMY 1. The roller-coaster that was the 2023 monsoon F. Prelims Facts 1. Trio wins Chemistry Nobel for ‘quantum dots’ G. Tidbits 1. New defence indigenisation list has futuristic weapons systems 2. ‘Green shipping plan to position maritime sector as eco-friendly’ 3. LPG subsidy for Ujjwala beneficiaries raised to ₹300 H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
C. GS 3 Related
1. Seven dead as glacial lake bursts in Sikkim
Syllabus: Understanding and addressing disaster management.
Mains: Challenges and impact of flash floods; casualties, infrastructure damage, rescue operations, and the need for disaster management in potential glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) areas.
Prelims: Glacial lake outburst floods
Context
Flash floods in Sikkim caused by the overflow of a glacial lake formed from melting Himalayan ice led to casualties, infrastructure damage, and missing individuals.
Introduction
- Flash floods hit Sikkim, resulting in at least seven deaths, numerous injuries, and missing individuals.
- The floods were triggered by the overflow of a glacial lake formed from the melting of a Himalayan glacier, causing destruction in the Teesta River basin.
Causes and Consequences
- The flash floods resulted in the devastation of the Chungthang dam, a vital element of Sikkim’s largest hydroelectric undertaking, and swept away roads, villages, and urban areas.
- The worst-affected districts include Mangan, Gangtok, Pakyong, and Namchi.
South Lhonak Lake Expansion
- The South Lhonak lake, located at an altitude of about 5,200 metres, had been expanding due to the melting of ice at its head.
- Nearly half of the lake suddenly drained out, possibly caused by an avalanche from the ice-capped feature.
Chungthang Dam Breach
- The concrete-rock dam of Chungthang was breached due to the sheer force and speed of the water, estimated at nearly 54 kmph.
- The Central Water Commission (CWC) reported a sudden rise in water levels at 1:30 a.m., leaving little time for warning.
Impact on Teesta 3 Hydropower Project
- The Teesta 3 hydropower project, operated by Sikkim Urja, witnessed the devastation caused by the flash floods.
- The project is 60% owned by the Sikkim government.
Also read Teesta River.
Relief Efforts
- Relief camps have been set up, and search operations for missing individuals continued despite challenging weather conditions.
- The West Bengal government reported flooding in downstream districts due to the release of over 8,000 cubic metres per second of water from the Teesta barrage.
Warnings and Recommendations
- Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) had previously warned of the potentially hazardous South Lhonak lake in 2013 and 2019.
- Recommendations included early warning systems and mitigation measures for glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) in Himalayan regions.
Nut Graf: Flash floods in Sikkim, triggered by a glacial lake overflow, claimed lives and caused devastation, emphasising the urgency of addressing glacial lake outburst floods.
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
1. Keeping tabs on carbon with an accounting system
Syllabus: Conservation, Environmental pollution and degradation
Mains: Significance of carbon accounting system
Context: The climate ‘polycrisis’, a term made popular by Adam Tooze, refers to the interconnected and compounding crises related to climate change that are affecting the planet not just in a few sectors but across several sectors and domains.
The Term “Polycrisis”
- It encompasses the physical impacts of climate change (rising temperatures, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events) and the social, economic, and political challenges that arise from these impacts.
- In India, this polycrisis is evident in the interplay between sectors such as energy, infrastructure, health, migration, and food production.
The Approach
- Recognizing Complexity and Interconnectedness:
- Addressing the climate polycrisis requires a holistic approach that considers diverse perspectives and priorities of stakeholders while ensuring resilience, equity, and justice.
- A sectoral approach to climate change is insufficient due to the interconnected nature of the polycrisis, leading to unintended consequences when addressing isolated aspects.
- The Need for Deep Transformation:
- A deep transformation is necessary to establish a new economy that is environmentally conscious, akin to the way digital infrastructure has spurred startups and public services.
- The concept of “carbon infrastructure” is proposed, emphasizing the incorporation of carbon flows into policymaking at various levels, from households to the national scale.
- Measurement as the First Step:
- Measurement of carbon emissions is the initial step, as what cannot be measured cannot be accounted for.
- Existing carbon accounting methodologies can track carbon balance sheets at the corporate level, but a national carbon accounting (NCA) system is required to encompass the entire nation.
- Paradigm Shift with NCA:
- NCA is both an evolutionary and revolutionary concept that unifies carbon accounting across individuals, households, businesses, and the nation.
- It marks a paradigm shift by making carbon reduction goals internalized at the national level.
- Carbon Accounting’s Role:
- Carbon accounting is akin to financial accounting but for carbon emissions. It helps companies track the carbon they produce, remove, store, and offset.
- NCA will require businesses and individuals to report their carbon inflows and outflows, making the circulation of carbon visible.
- Benefits of NCA:
- NCA enables tracking of carbon stocks and flows at a granular level, enabling progressive carbon taxation.
- It offers the potential for converting carbon accounts into rupee accounts, facilitating the financing of goods and services using carbon surpluses.
- NCA allows for target setting, predictions of emission reductions, and tracking progress against goals, leading to informed decision-making.
- Reimagining the Economy:
- NCA could lead to the creation of a national carbon budget, transforming the entire economy and promoting new technologies and forms of collective action.
- It introduces the concept of a parallel goal, the “carbon GDP,” to reduce carbon emissions alongside traditional economic growth.
Significance:
- Implementing a national carbon accounting system not only supports India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 but also creates opportunities for new livelihoods and a more sustainable economy.
- It enhances transparency regarding carbon footprints and aligns development with ecological sustainability.
Nut Graf: A national carbon accounting (NCA) system serves as a polysolution to address the complex climate polycrisis. It offers a transformative approach that integrates carbon emissions tracking, carbon taxation, and the reimagining of economic and societal structures. By making carbon flows visible and quantifiable, NCA provides a crucial tool in mitigating climate change and fostering sustainable development in India and beyond.
1. The roller-coaster that was the 2023 monsoon
Syllabus: Indian Economy and agriculture
Mains: 2023 monsoon – impact on Indian agriculture
Context: The 2023 Southwest Monsoon season, spanning from June to September, has concluded, although the withdrawal of the monsoon may continue until mid-October.
- This monsoon season has been characterized by its roller-coaster nature, exhibiting extreme variations in rainfall patterns.
- It commenced with a severe rainfall deficit in the early days of June, transitioned to surplus rainfall in many parts of the country in July, and experienced an exceptionally dry August, only to be followed by record-breaking September rains, ultimately leading to an overall “normal” monsoon.
Source: The Hindu
Details:
- Monsoon Attribution:
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes the fluctuations in rainfall during this season to various climatic phenomena.
- The impact of El Nino, characterized by periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific, is linked to below-normal monsoon rainfall in India.
- The positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), defined by differences in sea surface temperatures between the western and eastern parts of the Indian Ocean, plays a role in influencing monsoon patterns.
- A positive IOD signifies warmer conditions in the western part and cooler conditions in the eastern part, associated with above-average monsoon rainfall in India.
- Rainfall Departure from Long Period Average (LPA):
- Chart 1 illustrates the cumulative departure (in %) of rainfall from the Long Period Average (LPA) for India during this monsoon season, with the LPA being the average rainfall between 1971 and 2020.
- Departure values of -20% or lower indicate deficient rainfall, values of +20% or higher indicate surplus rainfall, while values in between are considered normal.
- The chart reveals a severe rainfall deficit in the first two weeks of June, which was offset by surplus rainfall in July. August experienced a significant rainfall shortage, which was subsequently compensated by record-breaking September rains, resulting in an overall “normal” monsoon.
- Monthly Rainfall Departure and Regional Variations:
- Chart 2 presents the monthly percentage departure of rainfall from the LPA for India. In June, there was a departure of -9%, +13% in July, -36% in August, and +13% in September.
- The chart also provides a regional breakdown of monthly departures. For instance, the northwest region received excess rainfall in the first two months of the monsoon, but faced a deficit in August.
- Sub-Division Wise Departure:
- Map 3 offers a sub-division-wise percentage departure of rainfall from the LPA in India at the end of the monsoon season.
- Certain sub-divisions, including eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, south-interior Karnataka, and Kerala, ended with deficient rainfall. In contrast, Saurashtra & Kutch, and West Rajasthan recorded surplus rainfall. The remaining regions fell within the normal range (+19% to -19%).
- Impact of El Nino and La Nina:
- Chart 4 illustrates the historical impact of El Nino and La Nina on the percentage departure of rainfall from the LPA during southwest monsoons from the 1950s to 2023.
- La Nina, characterized by periodic cooling of sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific, is associated with surplus rainfall in India.
- The chart highlights that not all El Nino years result in deficient rainfall, and not all La Nina years lead to increased rainfall, emphasizing the influence of other factors on Indian monsoons.
Significance:
- The 2023 monsoon season’s erratic behaviour underscores the complex interplay of climatic factors that influence India’s monsoon patterns.
- It also highlights the importance of considering regional and global atmospheric patterns, such as El Nino, La Nina, and the Indian Ocean Dipole, in monsoon predictions. Understanding these phenomena is crucial for agricultural planning, water resource management, and disaster preparedness.
Nut Graf: The 2023 Southwest Monsoon season in India has been a roller-coaster ride of rainfall variations, ultimately culminating in a “normal” monsoon. While El Nino and La Nina are significant drivers, this season’s outcome demonstrates that other factors also play pivotal roles in shaping the monsoon. A holistic understanding of these influences is vital for effective climate forecasting and adaptation strategies in the region.
F. Prelims Facts
1. Trio wins Chemistry Nobel for ‘quantum dots’
Syllabus: GS 3- Science and Technology
Prelims: Nobel Prize and ‘Quantum dots’
Introduction
- The 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Alexei Ekimov, Louis Brus, and Moungi Bawendi for their pioneering work on quantum dots.
- Quantum dots are minuscule crystals with unique properties that have diverse applications, from LED screens to quantum computing.
Significance of Quantum Dots
- Quantum dots are recognized for their significant contributions to various fields and their potential to revolutionise technology.
- They are expected to play a role in flexible electronics, miniaturised sensors, efficient solar cells, and potentially encrypted quantum communication.
Characteristics of Quantum Dots
- Quantum dots are extremely small crystals, measuring just a few nanometers in size and consisting of a few thousand atoms.
- The electrons within quantum dots are closely packed, leading to pronounced quantum mechanical effects.
Quantum Dot Behaviour
- When quantum dots are exposed to light, they absorb and re-emit it at different frequencies, resulting in varied colours.
- The emitted light’s colour is determined by the quantum dot’s size, with smaller dots emitting bluer light due to the quantum energy levels involved.
- This size-colour relationship arises from electron transitions between energy levels within the dots.
Discovery of Quantum Dots
- In the early 1980s, Dr. Ekimov and Dr. Brus independently synthesised the first quantum dots in glass and liquid, respectively, confirming their existence and fluorescence.
- Dr. Bawendi and his team provided a breakthrough in 1993 by consistently synthesising high-quality quantum dots using a specific solvent and heating process.
Impact and Potential
- Quantum dots have already made significant contributions to fields like LED technology and display screens.
- Their potential applications continue to expand, making them valuable in various technological advancements.
G. Tidbits
1. New defence indigenisation list has futuristic weapons systems
Introduction
- India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, has unveiled the fifth Positive Indigenisation List, consisting of 98 items that the country’s armed services will procure from domestic sources.
- The release coincided with the launch of the Navy’s updated indigenisation roadmap called “Swavlamban 2.0.”
- These initiatives aim to promote domestic production, reduce reliance on imports, and encourage innovation within India’s defence sector.
Indigenisation
- The Department of Military Affairs compiled the Positive Indigenisation List through extensive consultations with various stakeholders.
- The list emphasises import substitution for major systems, platforms, weapon systems, sensors, and munitions, with an outlook on potential orders over the next five to ten years.
- The Navy’s “Swavlamban 2.0” outlines the roadmap for indigenisation efforts, focusing on self-reliance and fostering domestic innovation.
- The launch incorporated a total of 76 industry challenges within the framework of the 10th Defense India Start-up Challenges (DISC-10) and DISC 10 PRIME as part of Innovations for Defense Excellence (iDEX).
- Two INDUS X challenges, part of the “INDUS-X Mutual Promotion of Advanced Collaborative Technologies” (IMPACT) initiative, were jointly launched by iDEX and the U.S. Department of Defence.
- A special interactive session was planned to provide insights into the nuances of the indigenisation roadmap.
- The list includes various military items such as futuristic infantry combat vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, precision artillery systems, guided weapon test equipment, radars, helicopter components, air defence systems, and aircraft flares.
- This is the fifth Positive Indigenisation List, following four earlier lists that covered a total of 411 military items.
2. ‘Green shipping plan to position maritime sector as eco-friendly’
Introduction
- Director General of Shipping, Shyam Jagannathan, highlighted the significance of India’s maritime sector in achieving a $20 trillion economy by 2047.
- He emphasised the role of the National Action Plan for Green Shipping in promoting eco-friendly practices and incentivizing low-emission ships.
Key Points
- Environmental Responsibility
- The National Action Plan for Green Shipping aims to promote eco-friendly practices within the maritime sector.
- It focuses on incentivizing low-emission ships, reflecting India’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
- Maritime Sector’s Vision
- India’s maritime sector envisions a multifaceted growth plan to contribute to the nation’s economic goals.
- Key components of this vision include:
- Quadrupling port capacity to accommodate increased maritime activity.
- Development of clean energy fuel hubs for sustainable shipping operations.
- Growth in cruise tourism to attract global travellers.
- Leadership in shipbuilding and ship recycling, bolstering the shipbuilding industry.
- Establishment of a 5,000 km regional waterway grid to enhance connectivity.
- Economic Growth Projections
- The maritime sector anticipates a 9% projected growth rate, playing a pivotal role in India’s path to achieving a $20 trillion economy by 2047.
3. LPG subsidy for Ujjwala beneficiaries raised to ₹300
Introduction
- The Union Cabinet has approved an increase in the subsidy provided on LPG cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme.
- The subsidy has been raised from ₹200 to ₹300 per cylinder.
Impact on LPG Cylinder Prices
- A 14.2-kg LPG cylinder under the Ujjwala scheme, which offers free cooking gas connections to economically disadvantaged women, will now cost ₹603.
- This is a decrease from the previous cost of ₹703.
Read more on LPG Pricing.
Beneficiaries and Coverage
- The increased subsidy is expected to benefit approximately 9.6 crore families.
- The subsidy increase applies to up to 12 refills per year.
Previous Price Adjustments
- In August, the government had reduced domestic cooking gas prices by ₹200 per cylinder.
- Prior to the subsidy increase, the cost of a cylinder for Ujjwala beneficiaries was ₹703, taking into account the ₹200 subsidy.
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements, with reference to glacial lakes and glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF):
- Glacial lakes are mainly dammed by stable ice or sediment composed of loose rock and debris.
- GLOF refers to a glacial lake outburst flood caused by a breach in the lake wall.
- GLOF can be triggered by heavy rain or earthquakes.
How many of the statements given above are incorrect?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: All three statements are correct. GLOF, triggered by various factors, involves a breach in the lake wall of glacial lakes, often dammed by unstable ice or sediment.
Q2. Who was awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work on quantum dots?
- Frances H. Arnold
- John B. Goodenough
- Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna
- Alexei Ekimov, Louis Brus, and Moungi Bawendi
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: The 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Alexei Ekimov, Louis Brus, and Moungi Bawendi for their work on quantum dots.
Q3. With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), which of the following statements is/are correct?
- PMUY was launched in 2016 to provide LPG connections to poor households.
- The financial support provided by the scheme covers the cost of gas cylinders, regulators, and fittings.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: Both statements are correct.
Q4. The 'Swavlamban 2.0' recently in the news, is related to the:
- Indigenisation roadmap of the Indian Navy
- Indigenous space exploration mission by ISRO
- Renewable energy projects
- Agricultural reform roadmap by Ministry of Agriculture
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation: Swavlamban 2.0 is the updated indigenisation roadmap of the Indian Navy.
Q5. With reference to the National Action Plan for Green Shipping, which of the following statements is/are incorrect?
- The plan aims to promote eco-friendly practices in India’s maritime sector.
- It provides incentives for high-emission ships.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: Statement 2 is incorrect; the National Action Plan for Green Shipping promotes eco-friendly practices and incentives for low-emission ships, aiming for an environmentally responsible maritime sector.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- What is climate polycrisis? How can we mitigate it? (250 words, 15 marks) [GS-3; Environment]
- “Glacial lake outburst floods are a major cause of concern for India”. Discuss. (150 words, 10 marks) [GS-3; Disaster Management]
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