Current Affairs 25 July 2024

CONTENTS

1. MEA’s Development Assistance Plans in Union Budget 2024-25
2. 2024 UNAIDS Global AIDS Update
3. Supreme Court Split Verdict on GM Mustard
4. NPS Vatsalya Scheme
5. Vishnupad Temple
6. Climate Finance Taxonomy

MEA’s Development Assistance Plans in Union Budget 2024-25

Context:

In the recently announced Union Budget 2024-25, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has outlined its development assistance plans, focusing on strategic partners and neighbouring countries. This initiative aims to promote regional connectivity, cooperation, and stability in line with India’s Neighbourhood First Policy.

Relevance:

GS III: Indian Economy

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Distribution of Development Aid Among Countries:
2. Benefits of Development Aid Granted to Neighbouring Countries
3. India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
4. Challenges in India’s Relationship with Neighbouring Countries
5. Way Forward

Distribution of Development Aid Among Countries:

• Bhutan: ₹2,068.56 crore (highest allocation, though slightly reduced from ₹2,400 crore last year)
• Nepal: ₹700 crore (increase from ₹550 crore last year)
• Maldives: ₹400 crore (consistent allocation despite previous year’s higher revised amount of ₹770.90 crore)
• Sri Lanka: ₹245 crore (increase from ₹150 crore last year)
• Afghanistan: ₹200 crore (for aiding stability and development amidst challenges)
• Iran: ₹100 crore (for the Chabahar Port Project, consistent allocation for the past three years)
• Africa: ₹200 crore (for collective aid to African countries, reflecting India’s expanding engagement)
• Seychelles: ₹40 crore (increase from ₹10 crore)

Benefits of Development Aid Granted to Neighbouring Countries:

• Enhanced Diplomatic Ties:
  • Development aid strengthens political and economic relationships, fostering closer ties with recipient countries. For example, Bhutan’s support on the Doklam issue highlights this diplomatic benefit.
• Regional Stability:
  • Financial support helps stabilize neighboring countries, contributing to regional security. Stability in countries like Afghanistan can benefit India’s strategic interests by reducing regional volatility.
• Economic Growth:
  • Aid contributes to infrastructure projects and development programs, boosting economic growth in recipient countries. For instance, the Chabahar Port Project in Iran supports regional connectivity and trade.
• Increased Trade and Investment Opportunities:
  • Improved infrastructure and economic conditions in neighboring countries can lead to increased trade and investment opportunities for India. The Agartala-Akhaura railway project between India and Bangladesh exemplifies such benefits.
• Influence and Alliances:
  • Aid allows India to build alliances and exert influence, ensuring neighboring countries align more closely with Indian interests. Bhutan’s favorable stance on the Doklam issue demonstrates the impact of strategic aid.
• Humanitarian Assistance:
  • Aid addresses urgent humanitarian needs such as healthcare, education, and disaster relief, improving the quality of life in recipient countries. India’s “Operation Karuna” for Myanmar during Cyclone Mocha is a prime example.
• Soft Power and Regional Leadership:
  • Investing in the development of neighboring countries enhances India’s soft power and reputation as a responsible regional leader. It helps alleviate perceptions of India as a “Big Brother” among its smaller neighbors.

India’s Neighbourhood First Policy

Overview:

• Inception: The Neighbourhood First Policy was established in 2008.
• Scope: It focuses on managing relationships with India’s immediate neighbours: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
• Objectives: Enhance physical, digital, and people-to-people connectivity; boost trade and commerce; and develop an institutional approach to manage relations with neighbouring countries.

Importance of the Neighbourhood First Policy:

• Security Concerns:
  • Addresses threats from terrorism and illegal migration, including smuggling of weapons and drugs.
  • Enhances border security and monitors demographic changes due to illegal migration.
• Regional Relations:
  • Engages with regional and multilateral organisations to counter terrorism, particularly focusing on Pakistan’s role.
  • Builds infrastructure and stabilises border regions through improved connectivity and development projects.
• Economic and Strategic Benefits:
  • Expands India’s influence and builds economic linkages with neighbouring countries.
  • Facilitates defense cooperation and maritime domain awareness.
  • Supports the development of the North-Eastern region and regional connectivity projects, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.
• Cultural and Tourism Initiatives:
  • Promotes tourism, which fosters cultural exchange and increases interest in Indian culture and businesses.
• Regional Mechanisms:
  • Engages in regional organisations like SAARC and BIMSTEC to assert leadership and counterbalance other major powers’ influence.

Challenges in India’s Relationship with Neighbouring Countries:

• Border Disputes:
  • Disagreements over borders, especially with China and Pakistan, lead to tensions.
  • China’s growing influence and ties with Pakistan pose strategic challenges.
• Militant Groups:
  • Pakistan’s support to militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) that target India.
• Illegal Migration:
  • Influx of illegal migrants from Bangladesh raises demographic and security concerns.
• Economic and Trade Barriers:
  • Economic issues and trade barriers with countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal affect relations.
  • Trade restrictions and tariffs exacerbate diplomatic tensions.
• Water Disputes:
  • Conflicts over river waters, such as the Indus and Teesta rivers, strain relations with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
• Political Instability:
  • Political instability in countries like Nepal and Bangladesh impacts bilateral relations.
• Humanitarian and Environmental Issues:
  • Disputes over minority treatment and environmental impacts, such as flooding in Bangladesh and concerns over Bhutan’s ecology.
• Regional Organisation Disagreements:
  • Internal disagreements within SAARC and BIMSTEC can hinder effective cooperation.

Way Forward:

• Diplomatic Engagement:
  • Maintain regular diplomatic dialogues and high-level meetings to resolve issues.
• Dispute Resolution:
  • Develop mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as joint committees and arbitration panels.
• Trade Agreements:
  • Negotiate fair trade agreements to address imbalances and promote mutual benefits.
• Infrastructure Development:
  • Collaborate on improving connectivity through roads, railways, and energy corridors.
• Regional Security:
  • Coordinate on security initiatives to address common threats, including terrorism and illegal migration.
• Educational and Tourism Initiatives:
  • Increase initiatives to build mutual understanding and goodwill.
• Disaster and Environmental Management:
  • Collaborate on managing natural disasters and environmental problems through joint efforts and regional plans.
• Active Participation:
  • Participate actively in regional organisations to address issues and improve decision-making.
• Balanced Policies:
  • Ensure domestic policies align with international implications and adhere to the principles of the Gujral Doctrine.

-Source: Indian Express

2024 UNAIDS Global AIDS Update

Context:

Recently, the 2024 UNAIDS Global AIDS Update, titled “The Urgency of Now: AIDS at a Crossroads,” presented a critical overview of the current state of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the global response to it. This update underscores the pressing need for renewed efforts and strategies to combat the epidemic effectively.

Relevance:

GS II: International Relations

Dimensions of the Article:

1. HIV/AIDS
2. Key Highlights of the Reports on HIV/AIDS
3. Key Suggestions from the Report
4. Role of UNAIDS

HIV/AIDS:

• Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

HIV’s Impact:

• HIV attacks the body’s immune system, increasing vulnerability to other infections and diseases.

Progression to AIDS:

• If HIV is not treated, it can progress to AIDS.

Transmission:

• Sexually transmitted infection (STI).
• Spread by contact with infected blood, illicit injection drug use, or needle sharing.
• Can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Treatment:

• No effective cure currently exists; HIV is a lifelong condition.
• Proper medical care, specifically Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), can control HIV.
• Individuals with effective HIV treatment can lead long, healthy lives and protect their partners.

Key Highlights of the Reports on HIV/AIDS

Global Progress:

• Reduction in New Infections: There has been a 39% reduction in new HIV infections globally since 2010, with sub-Saharan Africa achieving a 56% decline.
• Current Statistics: Fewer people acquired HIV in 2023 compared to any point since the late 1980s. Almost 31 million people were receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).
• Decrease in AIDS-Related Deaths: AIDS-related deaths have dropped to their lowest level since 2004 due to increased access to ART.

Regional Disparities:

• Sub-Saharan Africa: Significant progress has been made in reducing HIV infections.
• Other Regions: Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East and North Africa have seen rising new HIV infections.
• New Infections: For the first time, more new HIV infections occurred outside sub-Saharan Africa than within it.

Key Populations:

• High Risk Groups: Sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, transgender people, and people in prisons continue to face high risks of HIV infection due to inadequate prevention programs and persistent stigma.

Challenges:

• Community-Led Interventions: These are critical but often underfunded and unrecognized.
• Prevention Efforts: There are notable deficiencies in access to services like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and harm reduction for people who inject drugs.
• ART Access: About 9.3 million people living with HIV are not receiving ART, with children and adolescents particularly affected.

Key Suggestions from the Report

Expansion of HIV Prevention Services:

• Key Populations: Increase access to prevention services for key populations, including sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, transgender people, and people in prisons.
• Condom Programs: Reinstate and fund condom programs to promote safe sex, especially in regions where use has declined.

Medication and Treatment Goals:

• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Scale up the availability and use of PrEP, aiming to reach 21.2 million users by 2025.
• ART Coverage: Ensure that 95% of people living with HIV are on ART by 2025, up from the current 77%.
• Childhood HIV Treatment: Improve diagnosis and treatment for children with HIV, aiming for a higher percentage of children receiving ART compared to the current 48%.

Integration and Legal Framework:

• Integrated Services: Integrate HIV services with broader health services to address comorbidities like tuberculosis, hepatitis, and non-communicable diseases.
• Harmful Laws: Remove laws that criminalise HIV transmission, exposure, and non-disclosure, as well as those targeting key populations.
• Stigma Reduction: Implement programs to reduce stigma and discrimination in health care and community settings, and ensure legal protection for people living with HIV and key populations.

Community and Funding:

• Community-Led Organizations: Strengthen the role of community-led organizations, aiming for them to deliver 30% of testing and treatment services and 80% of prevention services for high-risk populations.
• Funding Needs: Address the shortfall in funding for HIV programs, with an estimated additional USD 9.5 billion needed by 2025. Explore new funding sources and mechanisms to sustain the HIV response, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Role of UNAIDS

• Model for Reform: UNAIDS is a model for United Nations reform and is the only cosponsored Joint Programme in the UN system.
• Expertise and Representation: It leverages the expertise of 11 UN system Cosponsors and includes civil society representation on its governing body.
• Global Effort: UNAIDS leads the global effort to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.

-Source: Indian Express

Supreme Court Split Verdict on GM Mustard

Context:

Recently, the Supreme Court pronounced a split verdict on the validity of the Centre’s 2022 decision granting conditional approval for the environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard crops. This decision reflects the ongoing debate and legal challenges surrounding the introduction and regulation of GM crops in India.

Relevance:

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Supreme Court Verdict on Genetically Modified Mustard Hybrid DMH-11
2. About Genetically Modified (GM) Crops
3. Regulations on Genetically Modified (GM) Crops in India
4. GM Mustard: Dhara Mustard Hybrid (DMH-11)

Supreme Court Verdict on Genetically Modified Mustard Hybrid DMH-11

Case Overview:

• The Supreme Court delivered a split verdict on the Centre’s 2022 decisions regarding the environmental release of the genetically modified (GM) mustard hybrid DMH-11 for seed production and testing.
• The case was reviewed by Justices B V Nagarathna and Sanjay Karol, who had differing opinions on the matter.

Justice Nagarathna’s Ruling:

• Invalidation: Justice Nagarathna deemed the decisions of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) on October 18 and 25, 2022, invalid. She cited procedural flaws, such as the absence of a health department member and the absence of eight members from the GEAC meeting.

Justice Karol’s Ruling:

• Proceed with Safeguards: Justice Karol found no manifest arbitrariness in the GEAC’s decisions. He supported the continuation of field trials but stressed that they should proceed with strict safeguards.

Common Agreement:

• Need for Policy: Both justices concurred on the necessity for a national policy on GM crops.
• Action Directed: They directed the Centre to consult with all stakeholders and experts within four months to formulate this policy.
• Referral: The matter has been referred to Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud for further adjudication by the appropriate bench.

About Genetically Modified (GM) Crops

Definition:

• Genetic Modification: GM crops are plants whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques to introduce desirable traits, which may include enhanced resistance to pests, diseases, or environmental conditions, improved nutritional content, or increased yield.

Benefits:

• Higher Yields: Contributes to food security by producing more food.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Reduces the need for chemical pesticides.
• Herbicide Tolerance: Allows for more effective weed control.
• Nutritional Enhancement: Can be engineered to contain higher levels of essential nutrients, which can help address malnutrition.
• Environmental Impact: Reduced need for chemical inputs can lower the environmental impact of agriculture.

Concerns and Controversies:

• Impact on Biodiversity: There is concern about GM crops affecting non-target species and reducing biodiversity.
• Health Concerns: While research indicates GM foods are safe, public concern remains regarding potential long-term health effects.
• Corporate Control: Patented GM seeds raise concerns about corporate dominance over the food supply and the economic impact on small-scale farmers.
• Ethical Issues: Ethical debates exist over the manipulation of genetic material, with advocates calling for clear labeling of GM products to inform consumer choice.

Regulations on Genetically Modified (GM) Crops in India

Regulatory Framework:

• Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC): Oversees all activities related to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in India.
• Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: The primary legislation under which GMOs are regulated.
• Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC): A statutory body under MoEFCC responsible for reviewing, monitoring, and approving all GMO-related activities, including import, export, transportation, manufacture, use, and sale.

Key Responsibilities of GEAC:

• Approval Process: GEAC must approve the environmental release and commercial cultivation of GM crops.
• Regulations: The GEAC follows guidelines established under the Environment Act for the assessment and regulation of GMOs.

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

• Compliance: GM foods must adhere to the regulations set by FSSAI, which governs food safety and quality standards.

Current Status of GM Crops:

• Commercial Cultivation: As of now, only cotton is approved for commercial cultivation in India.

GM Mustard: Dhara Mustard Hybrid (DMH-11)

Background:

• Approval: In 2023, GEAC approved the environmental release of DMH-11 for seed production and testing, pending compliance with ICAR guidelines and other relevant regulations before its commercial release.

Characteristics of DMH-11:

• Development: Created by scientists at Delhi University.
• Genetic Engineering: Uses genes from soil bacteria to enhance the hybridization capability of mustard, a typically self-pollinating plant, making it more suitable for hybrid production.

Regulatory and Public Concerns:

• Court Case: The Supreme Court’s recent split verdict highlighted issues with the procedural validity of the GEAC’s approval process and emphasized the need for a national policy on GM crops.
• Consultation: The court has directed the Centre to consult stakeholders and experts to formulate this policy, reflecting ongoing concerns and the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework.

-Source: The Hindu

NPS Vatsalya Scheme

Context

The finance minister recently made the announcement of a new pension scheme under the National Pension Scheme (NPS), called NPS Vatsalya.

Relevance:

GS II: Government policies and Interventions

Dimensions of the Article:

1. NPS Vatsalya Scheme
2. National Pension Scheme (NPS)

NPS Vatsalya Scheme

Overview:

• Purpose: Designed to help parents and guardians plan financially for their children’s future.
• Mechanism:
  • Account Opening: Parents or guardians can open an NPS account for their minor children.
  • Contributions: Contributions can be made towards the child’s retirement savings.
  • Accumulation Period: Funds accumulate until the child turns 18.
  • Transfer to Adult Account: Upon reaching adulthood, the accumulated amount is transferred to a standard NPS account. The plan can also be converted into a non-NPS plan if desired.

Key Features:

• Similarity to NPS: Operates in a similar manner to the existing National Pension Scheme (NPS), adhering to the same principles of investment and fund management.

National Pension Scheme (NPS)

Overview:

• Objective: A voluntary retirement benefit scheme introduced by the Government of India to ensure a regular income post-retirement.
• Eligibility: Available to Indian citizens, including residents, non-residents, and Overseas Citizens of India.
• Function: Facilitates the accumulation of retirement savings through regular contributions during one’s career.

Investment and Returns:

• Investment Options: Contributions are invested in market-linked instruments such as stocks and bonds, which offer the potential for higher returns compared to traditional fixed-income options.
• Flexibility: Subscribers can exit the plan before retirement or choose superannuation.

Account and Tax Benefits:

• Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN): Unique to each subscriber and remains the same despite changes in employment, city, or state.
• Regulation: Governed by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
• Tax Deductions:
  • Section 80C: Contributions to NPS are eligible for tax deductions.
  • Section 80CCD(1B): Additional tax deduction of up to ₹50,000 is available.

-Source: Indian Express

Vishnupad Temple

Context:

Recently, the Finance Minister announced during her Union Budget speech that corridor projects will be built for the Vishnupad Temple at Gaya and the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya in Bihar.

Relevance:

GS I: History

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Vishnupad Temple
2. Mahabodhi Temple

Vishnupad Temple

Location and History:

• State: Bihar, India.
• Dedicated To: Lord Vishnu.
• Built: 1787.
• Order By: Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Ahmadnagar.
• Location: Situated on the banks of the Falgu River.

Architecture:

• Height: Approximately 100 feet.
• Structure: Features 44 pillars.

Significance:

• Pitra Paksh: A significant period in the Hindu calendar when devotees visit the temple to perform rituals to honor their ancestors.

Mahabodhi Temple

Location and Historical Context:

• Location: Bodh Gaya, central Bihar, on the banks of the Niranjana River.
• Proximity: East of the Mahabodhi Tree, under which Gautam Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment (nirvana).
• Historical Significance: The temple complex was first built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century B.C., with the current structure dating from the 5th–6th centuries.

Architecture:

• Height: 170 feet.
• Design: One of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick, from the late Gupta period. It has significantly influenced the development of brick architecture.

Recognition:

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized in 2002.

Key Points:

• The Vishnupad Temple is renowned for its architectural and cultural importance in Bihar, while the Mahabodhi Temple holds a pivotal role in Buddhist history and architecture, recognized globally for its heritage value.

-Source: Indian Express

Climate Finance Taxonomy

Context:

Presenting the Union Budget for 2024-25, Finance Minister announced that the government would develop ‘climate finance taxonomy’.

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Climate Finance Taxonomy

Definition and Purpose:

• System: A classification framework used to identify and categorize which parts of the economy can be marketed as sustainable investments.
• Objective: To guide investors and financial institutions in directing capital towards impactful investments aimed at addressing climate change.
• Applications:
  • Climate-related Financial Instruments: Used to classify and standardize instruments like green bonds.
  • Climate Risk Management: Helps in assessing and managing risks associated with climate change.
  • Net-Zero Transition Planning: Assists in planning and implementing strategies for achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Climate Disclosure: Supports transparent reporting and disclosure related to climate impacts and sustainability.

Global Examples:

• Countries with Developed Taxonomies: South Africa, Colombia, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Canada, Mexico.
• European Union: Has also developed its own taxonomy for sustainable investments.

Significance:

• Climate Change Mitigation: Helps countries transition to a net-zero economy by aligning economic activities with science-based transition pathways.
• Capital Deployment: Promotes the allocation of capital towards climate adaptation and mitigation projects.
• Reducing Greenwashing: Helps in mitigating the risks of greenwashing by setting clear standards for what constitutes a sustainable investment.
• Enhancing Investment: Increases the availability of capital for climate-related projects, aiding countries like India in meeting their climate commitments and facilitating a green transition.

Implications for India:

• Achieving Climate Commitments: Supports India’s goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing its green transition.
• Investment Facilitation: Ensures that investments are directed towards projects with genuine environmental benefits, enhancing the effectiveness of climate finance.

-Source: Indian Express