Wam June 2023

1.
GLOBAL STARTUP ECOSYSTEM REPORT 2023

(GSER 2023) .............................................................. 28
Table of Contents 2. RBI ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23 .................... 29
3. ILO MONITOR ON THE WORLD OF WORK ..... 30
POLITY ....................................................................... 2 4. SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING IN INDIA
1. SEDITION ................................................................ 2 31
2. ARTICLE 299 ......................................................... 3 5. DIRECT-SEEDING METHOD .............................. 32
3. REFORMING THE ARBITRATION LEGAL 6. GRAIN STORAGE PLAN IN COOPERATIVE
FRAMEWORK .................................................................... 4 SECTOR ........................................................................... 33
4. PUNCHHI COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS .. 6 7. FOREIGN PORTFOLIO INVESTORS (FPIS) ...... 34
5. STATE ELECTION COMMISSION .......................... 6 8. RBI’S COMPROMISE SETTLEMENT .................. 35
6. GENERAL CONSENT TO THE CENTRAL BUREAU 9. FCI’S OPEN MARKET SALE SCHEME ............... 36
OF INVESTIGATION (CBI) ............................................... 8 10. RAILWAY SAFETY ......................................... 37
GOVERNANCE & SOCIAL ISSUES ..................... 10 ENVIRONMENT & GEOGRAPHY ...................... 39
1. MANUAL SCAVENGING ...................................... 10 1. BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE .......... 39

2. WHO REPORT ON THE ‘HAR GHAR JAL’ 2. PARIS SUMMIT FOR A NEW GLOBAL FINANCIAL
PROGRAM ....................................................................... 11 PACT 39
3. CHILD TRAFFICKING IN INDIA .......................... 12 3. EL NINO ............................................................... 40
4. CITIIS 2.0: CITY INVESTMENTS TO INNOVATE, 4. PARTICULATE POLLUTION ................................ 40
INTEGRATE, AND SUSTAIN .......................................... 13 5. BIPARJOY CYCLONE ............................................ 41
5. GENDER GAP REPORT 2023 ........................... 14 6. GROUND-LEVEL OZONE .................................... 43
6. NIRF RANKING 2023 ...................................... 15 7. ARCTIC ICE .......................................................... 45
7. KFON (KERALA FIBRE OPTICAL NETWORK)16 8. FOREST FIRE IN CANADA .................................. 46
9. SUMMER SOLSTICE ............................................. 47
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS ......................... 18
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY .................................. 48
1. PM MODI’S VISIT TO USA ............................... 18
2. NEPAL PM VISIT TO INDIA ............................... 19 1. TRANSGENIC CROPS ........................................... 48
3. PM MODI’S VISIT TO EGYPT ............................ 20 2. FIXED DOSE COMBINATION (FDC) DRUGS ... 49
4. OPEC + ............................................................... 21 3. GENERATIVE AI .................................................. 49
5. ATLANTIC DECLARATION ................................. 22 4. HIROSHIMA AI PROCESS (HAP) ..................... 51
6. 1267 AL QAEDA SANCTIONS COMMITTEE ... 22 5. HIGGS BOSON DECAY ........................................ 51
7. AROUND THE WORLD ....................................... 23 6. PHONONS ............................................................. 52
SECURITY AND DEFENCE .................................. 24 HISTORY & CULTURE ......................................... 54
1. NAFIS ................................................................. 24 1. MESOLITHIC-ERA ROCK PAINTING ................. 54

2. VARUNASTRA ...................................................... 25 2. PRIME MINISTERS’ MUSEUM AND LIBRARY
3. MQ9 REAPER ..................................................... 25 SOCIETY .......................................................................... 54
4. SIPRI YEARBOOK 2023 .................................. 26 3. AKHAND BHARAT .............................................. 54
5. AGNI PRIME ........................................................ 27 4. GANDHI PEACE PRIZE ....................................... 55
5. GI TAGS ............................................................... 56
ECONOMY ............................................................... 28
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POLITY
1. Sedition
Context
The Law Commission of India has recommended retaining the Section 124A of IPC, but with
procedural safeguards.
Section 124A of the IPC

● Section 124A of the IPC defines sedition as an act that
○ brings or attempts to bring hatred or contempt
○ or excites or attempts to excite disaffection
○ towards the Government established by law in India by
○ words either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation or
otherwise.
● In simple terms, sedition means the act of causing hatred, contempt or disaffection against
lawfully established
government in India.
● Punishment: life
imprisonment or
imprisonment up to 3 years
with fine.
● It is a non-bailable offence.
● It was drafted by Macauley in
1837 and included in Section
124A of the IPC in 1870.
Arguments against Sedition:

● It is a colonial law that crushes opposition and has a chilling effect on Art 19(1)(a).
● Use of vague terms like “disaffection” increases the possibility of misuse.
● Draconian law - non-bailable, cognisable, possibility of life imprisonment.
● Low conviction rate - As per NCRB report 2020, arrests under the sedition law have risen
but the conviction rate has been very low - around 3%.
● Used to muzzle dissent and gag the press.
Supreme Court’s view:

● Kedar Nath Singh v State of Bihar (1962)
○ SC upheld Section 124A and held that the law strikes the correct balance between
fundamental rights and need for public order.
○ It attempted to restrict the law’s scope to only those cases where there is
incitement to violence and overthrow of the state.
● In Romesh Thapar case and Kanhaiya Kumar case, SC defined essential ingredients of a
seditious act:
○ Disruption of public order

○ Attempt to violently overthrow a lawful government
○ Threatening the security of the state or of public
● SG Vombadkere v UoI, 2022
○ SC suspended the operation of Section 124A.
Recent recommendations of the Law Commission:

● Retain Section 124A: The Commission argues that repealing Section 124A based solely on
other countries' actions would overlook India's unique realities. It emphasizes that the
law's colonial origins don't automatically warrant its repeal and that the entire Indian legal
system carries colonial influences.
● Amendments and Safeguards: The Commission recommends introducing a procedural
safeguard to Section 124A, requiring a preliminary inquiry by a police officer of Inspector
rank before registering an FIR for sedition. Permission from the Central or State
Government would be necessary based on the officer's report. The report suggests adding
a provision similar to Section 196 (3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, as a proviso
to Section 154 of the same code to ensure procedural safeguards against the misuse of
Section 124A.
● Definition Clarification: The Commission proposes amending Section 124A to specify that
it penalizes individuals "with a tendency to incite violence or cause public disorder,"
providing a clearer and more precise scope for its application.
● Enhanced Punishment: The report recommends increasing the maximum jail term for
sedition to seven years or life imprisonment, raising it from the current term of up to three
years or life imprisonment.
2. Article 299
Context
The recent ruling by the Supreme Court states that when the government enters into a contract
under the President’s name, it cannot claim immunity from the legal provisions of that contract
under Article 299 of the Constitution.
About the case:

● The case involved Glock Asia-Pacific Limited, a pistol manufacturing company, and the
Centre (government). Glock had a contract with the Ministry of Home Affairs to supply
pistols, but a dispute arose when the government invoked a performance bank guarantee.
Glock invoked arbitration, but the government challenged the appointment of the
arbitrator based on a tender condition.
● The Supreme Court decided in favour of Glock, stating that the arbitration clause allowing
a government officer as an arbitrator conflicted with the law. The court appointed a retired
Supreme Court judge as the arbitrator to resolve the dispute.
Article 299 of the Constitution:

● Article 299 specifies the manner in which government contracts should be concluded and
executed. The objective of this article is to ensure that contracts made by agents acting on

the government’s behalf adhere to a defined procedure to prevent unauthorized or
illegitimate contracts that may deplete public funds.
● Contracts must be expressed to be made by the President/ Governor: All contracts made
in the exercise of executive power must be clearly stated to be made by the President of
India or the Governor of a State.
● Execution of contracts: Contracts and assurances of property made in the exercise of
executive power shall be executed on behalf of the President or Governor by persons
authorized by them.
● Personal liability exemption: Neither the President nor the Governor shall be personally
liable for any contract or assurance made or executed in accordance with Article 299.
● Exemption for persons executing contracts: Individuals executing contracts on behalf of
the President or Governor shall also not be personally liable for those contracts.
● Compliance with statutory law: Article 299 does not grant the government immunity from
the application of statutory laws when entering into contracts. The government is still
bound by applicable laws.
3. Reforming the Arbitration Legal Framework

Context
The government has set up an expert panel led by former law secretary T K Vishwanathan to
recommend reforms in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, of 1996.
What is Arbitration and Conciliation?

● Arbitration is a dispute resolution process where the parties concerned, instead of
approaching courts, opt for private dispute resolution through arbitrators. The decision of
arbitrators is binding.
● Conciliation is a (non-binding)
process in which a third party
helps the parties in dispute to
resolve it by way of agreement.
The person authorised to do so is
called a Conciliator.
Legal backing to the alternative

mechanisms:
● ‘Section 89’ in the Code of Civil
Procedure, 1908, opened the
passage of statutory reference
to ADR, either by the Courts or
the parties themselves.
● The Arbitration and Conciliation
Act, 1996: The legislative intent
of the Act is to bring domestic as
well as international commercial

arbitration in consonance with UNCITRAL Model Rules, The New York Convention and the
Geneva Convention.
Salient provisions of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996:

● It consolidates and amends the law relating to - Domestic arbitration, International
commercial arbitration and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards, and defines the law
relating to conciliation.
● The Act provides the procedure to be followed in arbitration proceedings, arbitral tribunal,
the conduct of the tribunal along with the arbitral awards to be made in a dispute.
● The decision is binding on the parties and given in the form of an arbitral award in an
arbitration agreement.
● It also prescribes the procedure of appeal to courts in case of discrepancies.
The main objective of the Act:

● To make provision for an arbitral procedure which is fair, efficient, and capable of meeting
the needs of the specific arbitration.
● To minimise the supervisory role of the courts in the arbitral process.
● To permit an arbitral tribunal to use mediation, conciliation, or other procedures during
the arbitral proceedings in the settlement of disputes.
The main issue faced by the dispute resolution environment in India:

● Increased court intervention in the whole process.
● Thus, arbitration has no longer remained a truly party-driven, cost-effective, and time-
bound process.
● India still needs to establish itself as a seat of Arbitration in the international commercial
arbitration ecosystem.
Why is the T K Vishwanathan committee constituted?

As a continuous endeavour to promote ease of doing business, the Department of Legal Affairs is
considering the need to further reform the Arbitration and Conciliation Act 1996.
This will help India become a hub for international arbitration and reduce the burden on courts.
The terms of reference for the committee:

● To evaluate and analyse the operation of the present arbitration ecosystem of the country,
including the working of the Arbitration Act.
● To highlight the Arbitration Act’s strengths and weaknesses and challenges vis-a-vis other
important foreign jurisdictions.
● To recommend a framework of model arbitration system which is efficient, effective, and
economical and caters to the requirements of the users.
● To devise a strategy for developing a competitive environment in the arbitration services
market for domestic and international parties.

4. Punchhi Commission Recommendations
Context
The recent crisis in Manipur has sparked renewed interest in the Punchhi Commission
Recommendations, which offer potential solutions for effectively managing such situations.
Recommendations:
● Feasibility of legislation under Article 355: to enable the suo motu deployment of Central
forces in states when the situation demands.
● Localised Emergency provisions under Article 355: allow the imposition of Central rule in
a limited affected area of a state, such as a municipality or a district, while the rest of the
elected state government continues undisturbed.
● The time limit for Central rule under Article 355: Proposed that the Central rule in a limited
affected area should not extend beyond three months.
● Amendments to the Communal Violence Bill: Suggested amendments to the Communal
Violence Bill to include provisions that state consent should not hinder the deployment of
Central forces in serious communal riots. However, the deployment should be limited to
one week, with post-facto consent obtained from the state.
Significance of these recommendations:

The implementation of these recommendations could have potentially allowed the Centre to take
over the administration of specific areas in Manipur without disrupting the elected government.
Conclusion:
If these recommendations had been codified through constitutional amendments, they could have
provided a political solution to the ongoing conflicts in Manipur and other regions, allowing for
more effective management of such situations.
5. State Election Commission

Context
West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose holds the State Election Commission (SEC) accountable
for the violence occurring during the ongoing panchayat poll process in the state.
About State Election Commissions (SECs)

● The SEC is responsible for conducting free, fair, and impartial elections to the local bodies
within a state.
● Appointed by the Governor.
● Powers: Article 243K (1) vests the superintendence, direction, and control of the
preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections to Panchayats (Municipalities
under Article 243ZA) in the State Election Commission, headed by a State Election
Commissioner appointed by the Governor.
● Tenure: Article 243K (2) states that the tenure and appointment of the State Election
Commissioner will be directed by the law made by the state legislature.

● Removal: The State Election Commissioner has the status, salary and allowance of a Judge
of a High Court and cannot be removed from office except in like manner and on the like
grounds as a Judge of a High Court.
Issues
● Violence during elections: E.g., West Bengal Governor blames SEC for violence during
recent panchayat polls.
● State government interference: This is despite the fact that under the constitutional
mandate, it is the duty of the State to not interfere with the functioning of the State
Election Commission.
● Lack of impartiality and Questionable accountability: Often SECs have been found to be
● hand in glove with the state government.
● Appointment of serving bureaucrats: In this regard, SC has observed that This is necessary
because giving government employees the additional charge of State Election
Commissioners is a “mockery of the Constitution”.
● Challenges to independence: Tenure and appointment of the State Election Commissioner
are directed by the law made by the state legislature.
● Conflicts with state government: In Maharashtra (2008), then-state election commissioner
Nand Lal was arrested and sent to jail for two days in March 2008 after the Assembly found
him guilty of breach of privilege in an alleged conflict over his jurisdiction and powers.

Suggestions for reforms in SECs
● Supreme Court: The Supreme Court in 2021 ruled that serving bureaucrats must not be
appointed as election commissioners to ensure that the independence of the office of the
election commissioner is not compromised.
● 2nd ARC:
○ The 2nd ARC suggests that the State Election Commissioner should be appointed
by the Governor based on the recommendation of a collegium comprising the Chief
Minister, the Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly, and the Leader of the
Opposition in the Legislative Assembly.
○ 2nd ARC proposes the establishment of an institutional mechanism to facilitate the
coordination, sharing of experiences, and resources between the Election
Commission of India and the State Election Commissions.
● Law Commission 255th Report on Electoral Reforms: The report recommends adding a
new sub-clause to Article 324 of the Constitution to establish a separate, independent, and
permanent Secretariat for the Election Commission of India, similar to the Lok Sabha/Rajya
Sabha Secretariats under Article 98. Similar provisions can be made for the State Election
Commissions to ensure autonomy and fair local body elections.
6. General Consent to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

Context
Recently, the Tamil Nadu government withdrew the general consent given to the Central Bureau
of Investigation (CBI).
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

● CBI is India's premier investigative agency, responsible for handling a wide range of
complex cases, including corruption, major frauds, economic offenses, and cases of
national importance.
● The functioning of the CBI is governed by the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act,
1946.
● Section 6 of The DSPE Act (“Consent of State Government to exercise of powers and
jurisdiction”) says: “Nothing contained in section 5 (titled “Extension of powers and
jurisdiction of special police establishment to other areas”) shall be deemed to enable
any member of the Delhi Special Police Establishment to exercise powers and jurisdiction
in any area in a State, not being a Union territory or railway area, without the consent of
the Government of that State”.
Understanding "General Consent"

● "General consent" is the permission granted by a state government to the Central Bureau
of Investigation (CBI) to exercise its investigative jurisdiction within the state's territory.
Without this consent, the CBI cannot take up cases in the state.
● The "general consent" is required as law and order, including the power to investigate
crimes, falls under the purview of state governments according to the Indian
Constitution.

Significance of General Consent
● Expanding Jurisdiction: General consent empowers the CBI to investigate cases that have
inter-state or national ramifications. It allows the agency to extend its jurisdiction and
probe cases beyond its usual territorial limits, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated
approach to complex crimes that transcend state borders.
● Uninterrupted Investigation: With general consent, the CBI can swiftly take up cases and
initiate investigations without seeking permission on a case-by-case basis. This expedites
the investigative process and prevents delays in probing time-sensitive matters.
● Impartial Investigations: Since the CBI operates under the Central Government, it is often
perceived as a more neutral and independent agency to investigate sensitive cases
involving state officials or politicians. The agency can function free from local political
pressures, ensuring impartiality in its investigation.
Controversies and Challenges

● Withholding Consent: Some state governments (Tamil Nadu, Mizoram, West Bengal,
Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala, Jharkhand, Punjab and Meghalaya), due to
political considerations or disagreements with the Central Government, have chosen to
withhold or withdraw "general consent" to the CBI. This can create hurdles in
investigating cases that require the agency's intervention.
● Misuse and Overreach: Critics have raised concerns about the potential for misuse or
overreach by the CBI under the pretext of "general consent." They argue that the
agency's unbridled powers may lead to unwarranted intrusion into state affairs and
encroachment on state law enforcement's domain.

GOVERNANCE & SOCIAL ISSUES
1. Manual Scavenging
Context
According to the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E), only 508 districts
out of the total 766 in the country have declared themselves manual-scavenging free.
The practice of manual scavenging in India:

● Meaning: Manual scavenging includes the disposal of human excreta manually from dry
latrines, and public streets and the maintenance and sweeping of septic tanks, sewers, and
gutters.
● Prevalence in India: As many as 58,000 people worked as manual scavengers as of 2018.
941 people have died since 1993 due to accidents while undertaking hazardous cleaning of
sewer and septic tanks.
○ The practice, which is considered the worst remaining evidence of untouchability,
is most prevalent among people from lower castes/Dalits.
Salient features of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation
Act 2013:
● It bans manual scavenging.
● It widened the definition of manual scavengers by including it in all forms of manual
removal of human excreta.
● It lays a key focus on rehabilitating manual scavengers by organising training programs (at
a stipend of Rs. 3000) and offering scholarships to their children.
● It makes the offence of manual scavenging cognizable and non-bailable.
● It makes it obligatory for employers to provide protective tools to the workers.
Other efforts:
● The scheme for rehabilitation of manual scavengers: Under this, ~58,000 identified sewer
workers have been given a one-time cash payout of ₹40,000 each.
● NAMASTE scheme: For 100% mechanisation of sewer work. The scheme for the
rehabilitation of manual scavengers has now been merged with the NAMASTE scheme.
Concerns:
● Lack of funding: The Union Budget 2023-24 showed no allocation for the rehabilitation
scheme and ₹100 crore allocation for the NAMASTE scheme.
● Less than half of the identified sewer workers are connected to skills training programmes.
● Despite all efforts, manual scavenging is still practised in India.
Way ahead:
● All local bodies must identify and profile all septic tank/sewer workers in their respective
areas.
● Provide them with occupational training and safety equipment.

● Sign them up for health insurance under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Best practice:
● The Bandicoot Robot is the world’s first robotic scavenger, developed as a Make in India
and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan initiative by the startup Genrobotics.
● Kerala became the first state in the country to use robotic technology (Bandicoot) to clean
all its commissioned manholes.
2. WHO Report on the ‘Har Ghar Jal’ Program

Context:
● The WHO report highlights the significant impact of the ‘Har Ghar Jal’ program on public
health and economic savings.
● The focus of the report is on diarrheal diseases as they contribute significantly to the
overall disease burden related to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) issues.
About the ‘Har Ghar Jal’ programme (also called Nal Se Jal Yojana):
● The ‘Har Ghar Jal’ programme aims to provide safe and affordable tap water connections
to every rural household in India.
● It was launched in 2019.
● It is implemented under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) (Ministry of Jal Shakti). The scheme is
based on a unique model where paani samitis (water committee) comprising villagers will
decide what they will pay for the water they consume.
● Aim: Provide fully functional, safe, and affordable tap water connections to every rural
household in India by 2024. Fully functional tap water connection is defined as a household
receiving at least 55 litres of potable water per capita per day throughout the year.
Significance
● WHO report states that if the scheme succeeds, it will
○ avert 4 lakh deaths from diarrhoea
○ avoid 14 million DALYs (Disability Adjusted Life Years)
○ save $101 billion and 66 million hours in collecting water (mainly by women)
● Ensuring access to clean drinking water;
● Improving public health and well-being;
● Aligned with SDG 6.1 (proportion of the population using safely managed drinking water
services);
● Aligned with SDG 3.9 (mortality related to unsafe water, sanitation, and hygiene).
Achievements:
● Increase in rural tap water connections from 16.64% in 2019 to 62.84% in 41 months.
● Burhanpur district (MP) was the first ‘Har Ghar Jal’ certified district in the country;
● Goa was the 1st State to achieve 100% coverage.

3. Child Trafficking in India
Context
Several reports since the 2020 lockdown have noted that the pandemic created a second crisis of
child trafficking, with children being pushed into “despair, disease and death.”
Child trafficking
● Child labour is a form of modern slavery that includes any work that deprives children of
their childhood, potential and dignity, and physical or mental development (ILO).
● The practice includes trafficking, sexual exploitation, debt bondage, and exploitation in
armed conflicts.
● Child trafficking manifests in the form of domestic labour, forced child labour across
industries, and illegal activities such as begging, organ trade and commercial sex purposes.
● Estimates show that children account for one in every three detected victims of trafficking
worldwide.
Prevalence in India
● According to the NCRB, 8 children were trafficked every day in India in 2021 for labour,
begging and sexual exploitation.
● 95% of the reported cases in 2019 were of internal trafficking.
● The sale of children happens across borders too, with key routes being India to Gulf States
(for ‘khadama’ to work as housemaids) and South East Asian countries.
Main reasons for child trafficking in India

● Poverty, hunger, and lack of work.
● This year’s World Day Against Child Labour (June 12) emphasised social injustices (caste
and community-based discrimination and unfair treatment) as the root causes of child
labour and trafficking.
● Externalities such as the COVID-19 pandemic, armed conflict, and climate change.
● Vulnerable to online sexual predators.
● More than 40% of children trafficked were recruited by a family member or relative.
Laws governing anti-trafficking crimes

● The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act 1956: It is targeted at stopping immoral trafficking
and sex work. It is criticised for criminalising sex workers without providing sufficient legal
recourse or scope for rehabilitation, presuming that all trafficking is done for sex work
only.
● The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006: It prohibits and penalises the act of child
marriage. However, there is a rise in child marriage and sexual abuse during the COVID-19
pandemic.
● The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act 1986: In 2016, an amendment
completely banned the employment of children below 14 years; adolescents aged 14-18
years are not allowed to work in hazardous working conditions.
● The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act 1976: It prohibits systems of labour where
people, including children, work under conditions of servitude to pay off debt, and also

provides a framework for rehabilitating released labourers. 22 States and UTs did not
report identifying any bonded labour victims or filing a case under the law.
● The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015: It governs laws relating to
children alleged and found to be in conflict with the law.
● Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012: It seeks to prevent
commercial sexual exploitation of children.
● The Trafficking in Persons (Prevention, Care and Rehabilitation) Bill: The MWCD published
the Draft of the Bill in 2021, detailing measures to prevent, protect and rehabilitate victims.
There are specified penalties for offences divided into “trafficking” and “aggravated
trafficking”. It widened the scope of “victims” to include transgender persons.
Concerns
● Gross underestimate of the true extent: Child trafficking does not account for missing
children - 1 child goes missing every 8 minutes in India.
○ This is mainly due to a lack of awareness about the modalities of trafficking,
reluctance to seek police help and socio-economic deprivation.
● Low conviction: Less than 10% of the reported cases end up in convictions.
● Lack of coordination among AHTUs and disjointed operations by State and Central
Governments.
● Absence of a witness protection framework (the victim is also the witness) and challenges
in
accessing compensation.
● The Trafficking in Persons Bill violates the Juvenile Justice Act, as it places the burden of
proof on the offender (the child) rather than the prosecuting agency.
● The 2022 Trafficking in Persons Report:
○ India does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking
but is making significant efforts to do so.
○ India does not have a composite anti-trafficking law that addresses the prevention,
protection, rehabilitation, and compensation of survivors.
4. CITIIS 2.0: City Investments to Innovate, Integrate, and

Sustain
Context
The Union Cabinet has approved the City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain 2.0
(CITIIS 2.0).
CITIIS 2.0
● CITIIS 2.0 is a program initiated by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in
partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau
(KfW), the European Union (EU), and the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA).
● It aims to support sustainable urban development projects in Indian cities, with a focus
on circular economy principles, climate-oriented reforms, and institutional strengthening
over the next four years.

Objectives of CITIIS 2.0
CITIIS 2.0 program has three major components, each targeting specific objectives:
Component 1: Promoting Circular Economy and Integrated Waste Management: This

component aims to provide financial and technical support to up to 18 smart cities for developing
projects that focus on building climate resilience, adaptation, and mitigation. The selected
projects will promote circular economy principles with a specific emphasis on integrated waste
management at the city level.
Component 2: Climate-Oriented Reforms at the State Level: Under this component, all states and
Union Territories (UTs) will be eligible for support on demand basis. The states will receive
assistance to set up or strengthen their existing State climate centers/cells or equivalents, create
State and city-level Climate Data Observatories, facilitate climate-data driven planning, develop
climate action plans, and build capacities of municipal functionaries. The Program Management
Unit (PMU) at NIUA will coordinate technical assistance and strategic support to State
Governments.
Component 3: Institutional Strengthening and Knowledge Dissemination: This component

focuses on interventions at all three levels: Center, State, and City. The objective is to further
climate governance in urban India through institutional strengthening, knowledge dissemination,
partnerships, capacity building, research, and development. The aim is to support scale-up efforts
across all states and cities.
Funding and Support:

CITIIS 2.0 is funded through a loan of Rs. 1760 crore from the French Development Agency (AFD)
and Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) (EUR 100 million each) and a technical assistance grant
of Rs. 106 crore (EUR 12 million) from the European Union (EU).
5. Gender Gap Report 2023

Context
The World Economic Forum (WEF) released Gender Gap Report 2023.
About Gender Gap Report

● An annual report published by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
● Measures gender gaps in four key areas:
○ Economic Participation
○ Educational Attainment
○ Health and survival
○ Political Empowerment

Key Highlights of 2023 Report
● India's Rank: India was ranked at 127
out of 146 countries in terms of
gender parity, showing an
improvement of eight places from
the previous year's ranking of 135.
● Progress in Education: India
achieved parity in enrolment across
all levels of education, indicating
progress in educational
opportunities for both genders.
● Gender Gap in Economic
Participation: Despite overall
improvement, India reached only
36.7% parity on economic
participation and opportunity,
indicating significant gender disparities in the workforce.
● Political Empowerment: India registered 25.3% parity in political empowerment, with
women representing 15.1% of parliamentarians, the highest since the inaugural report in
2006.
● Women's Representation in Local Governance: India achieved over 40% women's
representation in local governance, along with Bolivia and France, out of the 117 countries
with available data since 2017.
● Sex Ratio at Birth: India showed a 1.9 percentage point improvement in sex ratio at birth,
contributing to the increase in overall gender parity after a decade of slow progress.
● Skewed Sex Ratios: The relatively low overall rankings in the Health and Survival sub-
index for India and other countries like Vietnam, China, and Azerbaijan were attributed to
skewed sex ratios at birth.
● Top Gender-Equal Country: Iceland remains the most gender-equal country for the 14th
consecutive year, with more than 90% of its gender gap closed.
● Southern Asian Region's Parity: The Southern Asian region achieved 63.4% gender parity,
the second-lowest among the eight regions assessed in the report.
● Gender Gap in Senior Positions: Despite progress in wages and income parity in India, the
share of women in senior positions and technical roles slightly declined.
6. NIRF Ranking 2023

Context
The Union Ministry of Education recently announced the NIRF Rankings 2023 for higher
education institutions.
About National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)

● NIRF is a government initiative launched by the Ministry of Education in 2015.
● Objective: to rank higher education institutions in India based on various parameters to
promote excellence and encourage healthy competition among institutions.

● Parameters Considered: five broad parameters
○ Teaching, Learning, and Resources: Focuses on the quality of faculty, student-
teacher ratio, and availability of resources like library and infrastructure.
○ Research and Professional Practice: Assesses the research output, publications,
patents, and collaborations with industries and research organizations.
○ Graduation Outcomes: Measures the employability and success of graduates.
○ Outreach and Inclusivity: Considers factors like diversity, representation of
women and economically challenged students, and student support services.
○ Peer Perception: Involves surveys to capture the perception of the institution
among peers, employers, and the general public.
NIRF 2023
Category Top Institution
Overall IIT Madras
University IISc, Bengaluru
College Miranda House, Delhi
Management IIM Ahmedabad
Pharmacy NIPER, Hyderabad
Medical AIIMS, Delhi
Dental SIMTS, Chennai
Law NLU, Bengaluru
Research IISc, Bengaluru
Architecture IIT Roorkee
Innovation IIT Kanpur
Agriculture and Allied Sectors IARI, New Delhi
7. KFON (Kerala Fibre Optical Network)

Context
Recently, the Kerala government officially launched the Kerala Fibre Optical Network (KFON).
About KFON
● Vision and Objectives:
○ KFON is a flagship project of the Kerala government aimed at reducing the digital
divide and ensuring high-speed broadband internet access to all households and
government offices in the state.

○ It aligns with Kerala's commitment to declare the right to internet as a basic right
and propel the state towards becoming a knowledge-based economy.
● Infrastructure Provider:
○ KFON acts as an optical fibre cable network spanning 30,000 kms, with 375
Points-of-Presence across Kerala.
○ The infrastructure is shared with all service providers, including cable operators,
to enhance internet connectivity.
● Broadband Internet Speed:
○ KFON promises internet speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps, enabling
seamless browsing and improved call quality.
● Stakeholders and Funding:
○ KFON is a joint venture between Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and Kerala
State IIT Infrastructure Limited.
○ The project is fully funded by Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board
(KIIFB).
● Services Offered:
○ KFON provides a range of services, including connectivity to government offices,
leasing of dark fibre, internet leased line, fibre to the home, wifi hotspots, and
colocation of assets.
○ The network also facilitates internet protocol television, OTT, and cloud hosting.
● Internet for BPL Families:
○ One of the major highlights of KFON is to provide internet connectivity to 20 lakh
families below the poverty line.
○ In the first phase, 14,000 BPL families receive high-speed internet connections
free of cost.
● Achievements:
○ As of June 5, 2023, KFON has connected 17,412 government offices and 2,105
houses, with cable laid for an additional 9,000 houses.
○ The project holds potential to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens with
seamless internet access.

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. PM Modi’s Visit to USA

Key Outcomes of the visit:
● Strengthening Technology Partnership:
○ Investment in Semiconductor Supply Chains: Micron Technology to invest over
$800 million in a semiconductor assembly and test facility in India. Applied
Materials and Lam Research to support semiconductor supply chain
diversification and education in India.
○ Critical Minerals Partnership: India joins the US-led Minerals Security Partnership
to develop sustainable critical energy minerals supply chains globally.
○ Advanced Telecommunications: Joint Task Forces established for Open RAN
systems and advanced telecoms research to enhance network efficiency and
security.
○ NASA-ISRO Collaboration: India signs the Artemis Accords, commits to peaceful
space exploration, and receives advanced training for ISRO astronauts from
NASA.
● Collaboration in Quantum, Advanced Computing, and AI:
○ Joint Indo-US Quantum Coordination Mechanism established to facilitate joint
research on quantum, AI, and wireless technologies.
○ Research Collaborations: The US National Science Foundation announces joint
research collaborations with India's Department of Science and Technology and
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
● Defence Partnership:
○ Co-production of GE F414 Combat Aircraft Engines: General Electric and
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to jointly produce F414 jet engines in India,
enabling greater transfer of US jet engine technology.
○ Procurement of MQ-9B SeaGuardian UAVs: India intends to purchase armed
drones to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
○ US Navy Ship Service and Repair: Agreements with Indian shipyards to provide
service and repair for US Navy ships during mid-voyage.
○ Defence “Innovation Bridge”: The India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem
(INDUS-X) — a network of university, incubator, corporate, think tank, and
private investment stakeholders — was inaugurated on June 21, 2023. This
programme will facilitate joint innovation on defence technologies and accelerate
the integration of India’s private sector defence industry with the US defence
sector.
● People-Centric Efforts:
○ Visa Renewal Pilot Program: A pilot program launched to adjudicate domestic
renewals of certain petition-based temporary work visas, including H1B and L visa
holders, eliminating the need to leave the country for renewal.
○ Establishment of New Consulates: The US intends to open consulates in
Bengaluru and Ahmedabad, while India plans to open its consulate in Seattle.
● Advancing Student Exchanges and Scholarships:

○ Joint Task Force for Educational Institutions: The US and India launch a Joint Task
Force of the Association of American Universities and leading Indian educational
institutions to promote academic collaboration.
● Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific:
○ Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: The US joins India's regional initiative to promote a
safe, secure, and stable maritime domain and conservation efforts.
○ Indian Ocean Dialogue: A platform for regional coordination and cooperation.
● Sustainable Development:
○ Energy Collaboration: India and the US commit to working together to achieve
their national climate and energy goals.
○ Green Technology Investments: Innovative investment platforms to attract
international finance for renewable energy and emerging green technology
projects in India.
○ Global Biofuels Alliance: India plans to establish an alliance with the US as a
founding member to promote biofuels research and development.
● Initiatives on Health:
○ Cancer and Diabetes Research: Collaboration between US and Indian scientists on
AI-enabled digital pathology and radiotherapy treatment for cancer. Agreement
for research on diabetes between US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive
and Kidney Diseases and Indian Council of Medical Research.
○ US-India Cancer Dialogue: Bringing together experts to accelerate progress
against cancer.
● Combating Terrorism and Drugs:
○ Joint Efforts against Terrorism: Strong condemnation of terrorism and support
for concerted action against UN-listed terrorist groups. Calls on Pakistan to
prevent terrorist attacks from its territory.
○ Counternarcotics Framework: Development of a bilateral framework to disrupt
illicit drug production and trafficking, including synthetic drugs and fentanyl.
2. Nepal PM Visit to India

Context
Recently, Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ made an official visit to India.
Key outcomes of the visit

● Transit Agreement: Both countries concluded a Transit Agreement to enhance physical
connectivity. This agreement includes new rail routes for people of Nepal and provisions
for India's inland waterways.
● Increased Rail Links: Decision to establish new rail links to boost connectivity between
India and Nepal. Additionally, railway personnel from Nepal will receive training in Indian
Railway Institutes.
● Infrastructure Development: Two new bridges will be constructed at Shirsha and
Jhulaghat to improve connectivity to Nepal's far western region.

● Cross-Border Digital Payments: Steps taken to boost financial connectivity through cross-
border digital payments, benefiting students, tourists, pilgrims, and patients from Nepal
visiting India.
● Power Trade Agreement: A long-term Power Trade Agreement has been signed between
India and Nepal, with a target to import 10,000 MW of electricity from Nepal in the next
ten years.
● Hydro-Electric Projects: Agreements on the Phukot-Karnali and Lower Arun Hydro-Electric
Projects to strengthen cooperation in the power sector.
● Expansion of Petroleum Pipeline: The Motihari-Amlekhganj petroleum pipeline will be
extended up to Chitwan, and a new pipeline will be constructed from Siliguri to Jhapa in
eastern Nepal. Storage terminals will be set up at Chitwan and Jhapa.
● Fertilizer Plant: Mutual cooperation to set up a fertilizer plant in Nepal.
● Ramayana Circuit Projects: Expedited projects related to the Ramayana circuit to
strengthen religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal.
● Commitment to Addressing Issues: Both leaders pledged to resolve all issues, including
boundary-related matters, with the spirit of strengthening the bilateral relationship.
3. PM Modi’s Visit to Egypt

Key Outcomes:
● Strategic Partnership Agreement:
○ The key highlight of the visit was the signing of a strategic partnership agreement
between India and Egypt. This landmark development aims to deepen and
strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
● State Honor:
○ Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the highest honor of Egypt, the Order of
the Nile, from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, signifying the warm and affectionate
relations between India and Egypt.
● Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs):
○ Three MoUs were signed during the visit in the fields of agriculture, archaeology &
antiquities, and competition law, enhancing cooperation in various sectors.
● Green and Renewable Collaboration:
○ The leaders emphasized the significance of clean energy and green and renewable
collaboration as a crucial aspect of their future partnership.
● Multilateral Cooperation:
○ Discussions were held on multilateral cooperation at the G-20 and other
international forums, showcasing the commitment of both nations to work
together on global issues.
● India Unit in the Egyptian Cabinet:
○ The newly established 'India Unit' in the Egyptian Cabinet was acknowledged as a
useful mechanism to facilitate and steer bilateral collaborations between the two
countries.
● Homage to Indian Soldiers:

○ Prime Minister Modi paid homage to over 4,300 Indian soldiers who lost their lives
in Egypt and Aden during World War I at the Heliopolis Commonwealth War Grave
Cemetery.
● Invite to G20:
○ Egypt's designation as a "guest country" at the upcoming G-20 summit in India
reflects the growing importance of Egypt-India relations in the region.
4. OPEC +
Context
OPEC+ meeting to discuss output policy and potential production cuts.
OPEC vs OPEC+
Aspect OPEC OPEC+
Formation Established in 1960 in Baghdad, Informal alliance formed in 2016

Iraq
Headquarter Vienna, Austria -
Objective Ensure stable oil prices and steady Manage oil production and stabilize
income for members prices
Membership 13 member countries: OPEC countries + Russia,

Venezuela, Algeria, Angola, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Bahrain,
Republic of Congo, Equatorial Brunei, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman,
Guinea, Gabon, Libya, Nigeria, South Sudan, Sudan
Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia,
UAE

5. Atlantic Declaration
Context
The USA and the UK have announced the Atlantic Declaration for a Twenty-First Century U.S.-UK
Economic Partnership.
About Atlantic Declaration

● It aims to build a resilient, diversified,
and secure supply chain, reducing
strategic dependencies.
● The partnership aims to leverage the
energy transition and technological
breakthroughs to drive shared growth,
create employment opportunities, and
uplift communities.
● partnership across five pillars, by:
○ ensuring U.S.-UK leadership in critical and emerging technologies,
○ advancing ever-closer cooperation on our economic security and technology
protection toolkits and supply chains,
○ partnering on an inclusive and responsible digital transformation,
○ building the clean energy economy of the future, and
○ strengthening the alliance across defence, health security, and space.
6. 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee

Context
Recently, China blocked a proposal by India and the US at the United Nations to designate
Pakistan-based terrorist Sajid Mir as a global terrorist under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions
Committee of the UN Security Council.
About 1267 Al Qaeda SaThe 1267

● Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee is a subsidiary body of the United Nations Security
Council, established in 1999 under Resolution 1267.
● The committee is responsible for implementing sanctions against individuals and entities
associated with Al Qaeda, the Taliban, and other terrorist organizations.
● Its primary focus is to target individuals and entities involved in terrorism, including those
responsible for planning, financing, supporting, and carrying out terrorist activities.
● Listing and Designation Process:
○ Member States, including India and the US, can submit names of individuals and
entities to the committee for inclusion in the sanctions list.
○ The listing process involves a rigorous assessment of the proposed names to
ensure compliance with the criteria for designation as terrorists or terrorist
entities.
○ Once listed, individuals and entities are subjected to various sanctions, including
asset freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo.

○ Member States are obligated to implement the sanctions and take necessary
measures to enforce them.
7. Around the World

Country/Place in News Reason
Belarus Russia will start deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus

after special storage facilities are ready.
Kakhovka Dam - Ukraine The wall of a Kakhovka dam (on Dnieper river) in southern Ukraine
that Moscow controls collapsed recently after a reported
explosion.
Rostov-on-Don - Russia Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of Russia’s Wagner Private Military
Company, staged a short-lived mutiny by taking control of Rostov-
on-Don city
Japan Japan has raised the age of sexual consent from 13 to 16 years. It
has also changed the definition of rape - from just forcible sexual
intercourse and broadens the ambit to include ‘non-consensual
sexual intercourse”
Israel Protests in Israel against the government's Judicial Reform Bill

that aims to limit the Supreme Court’s power.
Argentina Grappling with soaring inflation rate, which stands at 104%.

Reason: historic drought last year, currency weakness
Estonia Legalises same-sex marriage
Philippines Philippines’ most active volcano Mount Mayon erupted leading to

displacement of thousands.

SECURITY AND DEFENCE
1. NAFIS
Context
The Ministry of Home Affairs in India
has directed central law
enforcement agencies, including the
CBI, NIA and the Narcotics Control
Bureau (NCB), to access and share
their records with the national
fingerprints database, NAFIS
(National Automated Fingerprint
Identification System).
About NAFIS:
● This database, known as
NAFIS, is a web-based
application that serves as a
central repository of criminal
fingerprint data collected
from various states and Union territories.
● The aim is to enhance the ability of these agencies to identify criminals and expedite
investigations by leveraging the comprehensive fingerprint data available in the database.
● It was conceptualised by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) in 2022 and is
managed by the Central Fingerprint Bureau (CFPB) at NCRB.
● It assigns a unique 10-digit National Fingerprint Number (NFN) to each person arrested for
a crime.
● Lifetime Usage: The NFN is used for the person’s lifetime, and different crimes registered
under different FIRs are linked to the same NFN in the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network
& Systems (CCTNS) database.
● Fingerprinting History: First began automating fingerprint databases in 1992 with FACTS
1.0, recommended by the National Police Commission. FACTS 5.0 was upgraded in 2007
and later replaced by NAFIS in 2022.
● Historical Significance: Fingerprinting identification system emerged in colonial India and
spread to Europe. William Herschel introduced fingerprinting to reduce fraud and
forgeries. Bengal Police established the world’s first Fingerprint Bureau in Calcutta.
● Advantages: Provides a secure and non-transferable identification method, simplified
record keeping, and enhances security.
● Disadvantages: System failures, implementation and maintenance costs, and limitations
for certain populations, such as those with worn prints or missing fingers.

2. Varunastra
Context
The Indian Navy and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a
significant milestone as an indigenous heavy-weight torpedo, Varunastra, successfully engaged an
underwater target in a live test.
What is a Torpedo?
A torpedo is a self-propelled underwater weapon designed to target and destroy enemy vessels
or submarines. It is typically cylindrical in shape and equipped with explosives, propulsion systems,
and guidance mechanisms.
About Varunastra:
● It is an indigenously designed
and developed ship-launched
anti-submarine torpedo. It
was designed and developed
by the Vizag-based Naval
Science and Technological
Laboratory (NSTL) under the
DRDO and is manufactured by
Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL).
● It has a maximum speed of 40
knots and a maximum
operating depth of 600 m and
has a long range with multi-
manoeuvring capabilities.
● It features advanced
capabilities such as low drift navigational systems, acoustic homing, and autonomous
guidance algorithms.
● Other types of Torpedos with the Indian navy: Advanced Light Torpedo Shyena (ALT-S);
Whitehead A244/S; APR-3E; SET-65E.
3. MQ9 Reaper
Context
India recently approved procurement of MQ9 Reaper UAVs from the USA.
About MQ9 Reaper

MQ-9 Reaper, also known as the Predator B, is an unmanned
aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by General Atomics
Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI). It is a versatile and long-
endurance drone that provides intelligence, surveillance,
reconnaissance (ISR), and strike capabilities for military
forces.

Feature Description
Endurance Over 27 hours
Payload capacity 1700+ kg
Strike Capability Equipped with precision weapons for engaging and striking
targets with accuracy
Multi-Role Capability Performs various roles, including surveillance, reconnaissance,

close air support, and more.
Primarily used for intelligence collection, providing real-time data
and intelligence
4. SIPRI Yearbook 2023

Context
Recently, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) released its Yearbook 2023.
Key Findings
● Russia has the highest number of stored nuclear arsenals followed by the US and China
while the US has deployed the highest number of nuclear arsenals followed by Russia
and France.
● Global Nuclear Arsenals: The nine nuclear-armed states, (the United States, Russia, and
China, UK, France, India, Pakistan, the North Korea and Israel) continue to modernize and
expand their nuclear arsenals, deploying new nuclear-armed or nuclear-capable weapon
systems in 2022.
● Dominance of Russia and U.S.: Russia and the United States possess almost 90% of all
nuclear weapons, with relatively stable sizes of their respective nuclear arsenals.
● India's Nuclear Arsenal:
○ India's nuclear arsenal also expanded, increasing from 160 warheads in 2022 to
164 warheads in 2023 and that of Pakistan from 165 to 170 in the same period.
○ India's nuclear deterrent, while primarily focused on Pakistan, is placing growing
emphasis on longer-range weapons capable of reaching targets across China.
○ India is in the process of upgrading its ballistic missiles, with the development of a
submarine-launched intermediate-range ballistic missile and the imminent
induction of a new generation ballistic missile called 'Agni Prime.'
● China's Nuclear Arsenal:
○ China's nuclear arsenal grew from 350 warheads in January 2022 to 410 warheads
in January 2023, according to the SIPRI.
○ The significant expansion of China's nuclear arsenal raises concerns as it
contradicts China's stated goal of maintaining minimum nuclear forces for
national security.

5. Agni Prime
Context
Recently, the new generation ballistic missile ‘Agni Prime’ was successfully flight-tested by
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island off
Odisha
About Agni Prime

Feature Description
Type two-stage, surface to surface, road mobile and solid-fueled ballistic

missile which is transported by a truck and launched via a canister.
Range Medium Range (1000-2000 m)
Developed by DRDO
Purpose Nuclear weapons delivery and strategic deterrence

ECONOMY
1. Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023 (GSER 2023)

Context
The report has been released by Startup Genome, a policy advisory and research organization.
About the report:

The Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023 (GSER 2023) is an in-depth analysis of startup
ecosystems worldwide. It provides insights into leading ecosystems, emerging trends, and
challenges faced by entrepreneurs. GSER 2023 offers actionable recommendations for
entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and stakeholders.
Key insights from the report include:

● Silicon Valley, New York City, and London maintain their top positions in the global startup
ecosystem rankings.
● Chinese ecosystems have experienced a decline in rankings, with Shenzhen, Beijing, and
Shanghai dropping in the overall standings.
● Indian ecosystems, particularly Mumbai, Bengaluru-Karnataka, and Delhi, have shown
positive growth in the rankings.
● Mumbai move 5 places up while Bengaluru was ranked 20th in terms of Startups.
Status of Startups in India:

● India has become the 3rd largest start-up ecosystem in the world after the US and China.
● India is home to as many as 75,000 Startups.
● Global Innovation Index: India has moved up from 81st (2015) to 46th in 2021 among 130
economies of the world.
● Publications: Globally ranked 3rd (2021) from 6th in 2013 based on the National Science
Foundation database.
● Patents: Globally ranked 9th (2021) in terms of resident patent filing.
Challenges faced by startups in India:

● Lack of funding: Limited access to venture capital, angel investors, and institutional
funding can hinder their growth potential.
● Regulatory hurdles: Navigating complex regulatory frameworks, compliance
requirements, and bureaucratic processes can be challenging for startups.
● Talent acquisition and retention: Startups must find creative ways to attract top talent and
provide an environment that fosters growth and offers equity-based incentives.
● Market competition: Established companies and foreign competitors often have larger
resources and market presence, making it difficult for startups to establish their brands,
acquire customers, and differentiate themselves from competitors.
● Infrastructure limitations: Issues such as unreliable power supply, limited internet
connectivity, and inadequate transportation systems can disrupt operations and impact
productivity.

● Limited access to mentorship and networking: The lack of established support systems
can hinder their ability to navigate challenges, learn from others’ experiences, and seize
opportunities.
Government’s Initiatives for Startups:

● National Initiative for
Developing and Harnessing
Innovations (NIDHI)
● Startup India Action Plan (SIAP)
● Ranking of States on Support to
Startup Ecosystems (RSSSE)
● Startup India Seed Fund
Scheme (SISFS)
● National Start-up Awards
● SCO Startup Forum
● Prarambh
2. RBI Annual Report 2022-23

Context
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its annual report for the year 2022-23, providing
information on the RBI’s functioning through the fiscal year as well as the state of the economy.
Data point Description Significance/Key Takeaway
2022-23 saw a 47% This sharp increase comes from profits Higher dividend payments
increase in RBI’s from its foreign exchange (FX) sales (₹1 (₹87,416.2) to the central
total income. lakh crore), reflecting its active Forex government will neutralise an
intervention. equal amount of slippage on the
fertiliser subsidy.
In addition, higher interest income (₹1.3
lakh crore) on its holdings of domestic An increase in the amount it
and foreign securities has more than keeps to meet contingency
offset losses on its liquidity operations. requirements.
Lending rates are Between May 2022 and February 2023, This has led to a significant
back to pre-covid RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee increase in retail lending rates and
levels in most (MPC) administered a cumulative rake barring education loans, almost
sectors. hike of 2.5 percentage points in the all of them are now above pre-
policy rate. Covid levels.
The share of bad The ratio of non-profitable assets The loan moratorium
loans in total lending (NPAs) to total loans continues to fall. programmes such as the
continues to fall. Emergency Credit Line
Gross NPA as a share of total advances Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS)
has fallen from 15.5% in 2018-19 to 5.8% in played an important role in

2022-23. preventing the proliferation of
stress in the banking system
While public sector banks (PSBs) during the pandemic.
continue to have higher NPA ratios, they
have seen a large reduction in their NPA
ratio.
The number of bank Close to 70% of the amount involved in Frauds on advances, which
frauds has increased total bank frauds was in PSBs. The includes wilful loan defaults have
but the amount private sector had a two-thirds share in fallen sharply in the last two years
involved has come the number of banking fraud cases. from ₹1.3 lakh crore to ₹28,792
down. crore in 2022-23.
FDIs are at their Total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) In aggregate, FDI inflows into PLI-
lowest since 2019-20. fell to a three-year low of $46 billion inlinked sectors have now
2022-23 - 26% lower than the previous moderated to USD 4-5 bn. PLI/
fiscal year. production-linked incentives have
been announced in several
FDI in the manufacturing sector fell 30% sectors to encourage local
to $11.3 billion in 2022-23 on an annual manufacturing.
basis.
3. ILO Monitor on the World of Work

Context
The ILO Monitor on the World of Work database provides access to several of the indicators related
to the labour market.
The uneven impact of the poly-crisis (simultaneous occurrence of several catastrophic events):
● The war in Ukraine, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, have resulted in the ongoing
cost-of-living crisis, especially in developing countries.
● Countries face a trade-off in managing expected inflation, exchange rate movements, debt
sustainability and economic activity.
● Various global shocks and risks are holding back labour market recovery, especially in low-
and middle-income countries.
● Unemployment and the jobs gap: Global unemployment is likely to return to the pre-
pandemic level in 2023.
Highlights of the ILO Monitor (11th edition):

● In 2023, the global jobs gap (periods during one’s professional career when s/he did not
have secure, formal employment) is projected to stand at 453 million people (11.7%), more
than double the level of unemployment.
○ Low-income countries in debt distress face a jobs gap of 25.7% in 2023.
● Some countries are facing complex and cascading crises, like natural disasters (e.g. the
earthquakes in Türkiye and the Syrian Arab Republic), which interact with broader global
challenges and exacerbate labour market impacts.

● Significant social protection policy gaps remain in developing countries, especially in low-
income countries, including in regard to old-age pensions.
○ Only 38.6% of older persons in lower-middle-income countries receive an old-age
pension.
Case of India:
● The unemployment rate declined sharply in 2021 and 2022, falling to 4.8%, which is almost
2 percentage points below its level of 2019 (6.5%).
Recommendations:
● Building a national social protection floor: For example, by expanding basic old-age
pensions in developing countries.
● This will act as a catalyst for inclusive sustainable development and decent jobs.
● Policies and financial support: To build resilience and overcome the global employment
divide.
● Build global financial resources: The UN Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection,
and the Global Coalition for Social Justice can play a positive role here.
4. Semiconductor Manufacturing in India

Context
India’s ambition of manufacturing semiconductor chips appears to be taking longer to materialize.
What are the hurdles?

● Vedanta-Foxconn struggles to find a tech partner that could licence them the technology
to manufacture 28-nanometre chips.
● ISMC (backed by Abu Dhabi-based Next Orbit and Israel’s Tower Semiconductor) has asked
not to consider its proposal owing to a pending merger between Intel and Tower
Semiconductor.
● Singapore-based IGSS Venture’s proposal was not found to be up to the mark by the
government’s advisory committee.
Why is India pushing for semiconductor manufacturing?

● India has identified electronics manufacturing as a key sector to boost its growth by
producing goods not just for the domestic market, but also for global markets.
● While smartphone manufacturing has taken off in the country with Apple taking the lead,
the entire process is largely centred around assembling various imported components.
● India has made chip manufacturing a top priority (by luring global companies) for its
economic strategy to -
○ Develop a domestic electronics supply chain and
○ Reduce its imports, especially from China

Govt. efforts - Semicon India Programme: Launched in 2021 with an outlay of Rs 76,000 crore, the
programme seeks to support the development of the semiconductors and the display
manufacturing ecosystem in India.
Way ahead:
● As more companies try to diversify their bases from China, India has an opportunity to
emerge as a reliable destination.
● On the lines of the USA’s CHIPS Act, India can also provide subsidies for manufacturing
chips in the country.
5. Direct-Seeding Method
Context
There is a growing trend of farmers in rice-growing states of India adopting the direct-seeding
method for paddy cultivation. With delays in rainfall and labour shortages, this method allows
farmers to sow seeds without waiting for rain or spending time in nurseries.
What is Direct Seeded Rice (DSR)?

● DSR, also known as the ‘broadcasting seed technique,’ is a method in which seeds are
directly drilled into the fields.
● There is no nursery preparation or transplantation involved in this method.
Technique:
In this technique, farmers level the land, provide one pre-sowing irrigation, and then sow the rice
seeds directly into the field instead of transplanting seedlings.
Advantages of DSR over Traditional Agriculture:

Advantages Direct Seeding Method (DSR) Traditional Agriculture
Water Conservation Direct-seeding method reduces water Relies heavily on flood

requirement by about 15%. irrigation, leading to water
wastage.
Labour Efficiency Requires fewer labourers for nursery Requires a significant

preparation and transplantation. workforce for nursery and
transplanting.
Time Savings Eliminates the need for nursery Requires time for nursery
preparation and transplanting time. preparation and
transplanting.
Yield Potential Can result in higher yields due to Yield may vary based on crop
improved crop management. management and
environmental factors.
Soil Health Helps prevent the development of hard Puddling can lead to soil

crust beneath the plough layer. compaction and reduced soil
health.
Crop Residue Allows for better management of crop Crop residue management can
Management residue. be challenging in traditional
methods.
Limitations of DSR:
● Weed Management Challenges: DSR often requires multiple sprays of weedicides to
control weed growth. In comparison, flood irrigation in the traditional method acts as a
natural weedicide.
● Vulnerability to Climate Extremes: DSR may be more susceptible to extreme weather
conditions, such as high temperatures and deficient rainfall.
● Crop Residue Management: Unlike traditional agriculture, where rice straw is removed
after harvest, DSR leaves the crop residue in the field.
● Variability in Yield: The success of DSR can vary de- pending on factors like farmer
expertise, soil type, and environmental conditions.
● Initial Learning Curve: Transitioning from traditional agriculture to DSR may require
farmers to acquire new knowledge and skills.
● The seed requirement for DSR is also higher than transplanting.
● Land levelling is compulsory in DSR, therefore, increasing the cost.
6. Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector

Context
The Union Cabinet approved the constitution and empowerment of an Inter-Ministerial
Committee (IMC) for the facilitation of the “world’s largest grain storage plan in the cooperative
sector” through the convergence of various schemes of the Ministries of Agriculture and Farmers
Welfare, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Food Processing Industries.
Schemes for Convergence:

Ministry of Agriculture and Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, Agricultural Marketing
Farmers Welfare: Infrastructure Scheme, Mission for Integrated Development of
Horticulture, Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization.
Ministry of Food Processing Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing

Industries: Enterprises Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana.
Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Allocation of food grains under the National Food Security Act,
Food and Public Distribution: Procurement operations at Minimum Support Price.
Benefits:
● The plan aims to address the agricultural storage infrastructure shortage and enable PACS
to function as procurement centres, fair price shops, custom hiring centres, and processing
units.

● It will reduce food grain wastage, enhance food security, prevent distress sales, reduce
transportation costs, and strengthen PACS.
Implementation Timeline:
● National Level Coordination Committee was formed within one week of approval.
● Implementation guidelines are issued within 15 days of approval.
● Portal for PACS linkage rolled out within 45 days of approval.
● Implementation starts within 45 days of approval.
Challenges Associated with Food Grain Storage in India:

● Insufficient storage facilities: Lack of proper warehouses and godowns at the farm level,
leading to the damage of grains by pests and insects.
● Inadequate infrastructure: Inefficient storage structures that are unsuitable for long-term
grain storage, lead to spoilage and quality degradation.
● Poor maintenance: The lack of regular cleaning, pest control measures, and repairs, leads
to structural weaknesses and pest infestations.
● Technological gaps: Lack of advanced technologies for storage, such as moisture control
systems and temperature regulation, which are essential for maintaining grain quality.
● Inefficient logistics: The lack of well-established transportation networks resulted in
prolonged transit times and exposure to unfavourable environmental conditions.
● Inadequate pest control: The absence of effective pest control methods like fumigation or
the use of insecticides can lead to significant grain damage and quality deterioration.
● Inadequate funding: Limited financial resources are allocated for the construction,
maintenance, and modernization of storage infrastructure, hindering the improvement of
storage facilities.
7. Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs)

Context
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed additional disclosures from
Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs).
Grounds FPI FDI
Distinguishing features Do not give investors direct Direct control/ ownership in a

ownership of a company’s assets. business.
Definition of FPI and FDI FPI results in an investor FDI results in an investor
as per Arvind Mayaram controlling less than 10% of the controlling more than/equal
Committee (2014) shares of the company. to 10% of the shares of the
company.
FPI regulation in India:

● FPIs are registered with SEBI and can invest in Indian securities as per the regulations
prescribed by SEBI.
● The Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 (FEMA) is the primary legislation governing
FPI in India and has been amended several times to liberalise FPI regulations in India.
What are SEBI’s new proposals?

● The proposed legislation categorises FPIs into low risk, moderate risk, and high risk.
● The low risk would cover government and government-related entities such as central
banks or sovereign wealth funds.
● Moderate risk refers to pension funds or public retail funds with widespread and dispersed
investors.
● All other FPIs are categorised as high-risk.
Proposals for high-risk FPIs:

● Additional disclosure requirements for high-risk FPIs holding more than 50% of their equity
asset under management (AUM) in a single corporate group.
● The existing high-risk FPIs with an overall holding in the Indian equity market of over Rs
25,000 crore comply with the disclosure mandate within six months.
○ Failing this, they would have to bring down their holding within the threshold.
Exceptions:
● New FPIs would be allowed to breach the threshold criteria for up to a period of six
months.
● ‘Moderate risk’ FPIs, whose India-oriented holdings are relatively small in comparison to
their global portfolio, are not subjected to additional disclosure requirements.
Need of the proposed regulations:

● Potential misuse of the FPI route for circumventing Press Note 3 stipulations (2020) that
required an entity sharing a land border with India to involve in FPI only via the government
route.
● Concentrated group investments by FPIs to bypass regulatory requirements (such as that
for minimum public shareholding).
Significance of the proposed regulations:

● They would try to identify tangible ownership and curtail incidences of multiple routes.
● This would enhance transparency and help avert regulatory requirements, and keep up
with the minimum (25%) public shareholding norms.
8. RBI’s Compromise Settlement

Context
● The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a controversial scheme that allows wilful
defaulters and loan accounts involved in frauds to enter into a compromise settlement
with banks to settle their dues. This scheme has raised concerns among a section of

banks, who believe it may have detrimental effects on the banking system and
depositors.
About Compromise Settlement

● Definition of Compromise Settlement:
○ A compromise settlement refers to a negotiated settlement where a borrower
offers to pay a reduced amount, and the bank agrees to accept it as full and final
settlement of its dues. This involves a write-off and/or waiver of a portion of the
outstanding debt on a one-time basis.
● RBI's Circular: On June 8, 2023, the RBI issued a circular allowing banks to undertake
compromise settlements or technical write-offs for accounts categorized as wilful
defaulters or fraud cases, without prejudicing ongoing criminal proceedings against such
debtors.
● Cooling Period for Fresh Exposures: The RBI has directed banks to impose a minimum
cooling period of at least 12 months before making fresh exposures to borrowers who
have undergone compromise settlements. This means wilful defaulters or fraudsters can
apply for fresh loans after 12 months of settling their dues.
● Concerns and Criticisms: Bankers and bank unions view the RBI's decision as detrimental,
as it condones the wrongful actions of defaulters and fraudsters and shifts the burden of
their misdeeds onto ordinary citizens and depositors. They believe this move
compromises the integrity of the banking system and discourages honest borrowers
from meeting their financial obligations.
9. FCI’s Open Market Sale Scheme

Context
States are exploring alternative ways of procuring wheat and rice after the Food Corporation of
India (FCI) imposed quantity restrictions and refused to allow states to buy through the Open
Market Sale Scheme (OMSS).
About Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)

● Operated by the Food Corporation
of India (FCI)
● Scheme designed to sell surplus
food grains (primarily wheat and
rice) from the central pool in the
open market to traders, bulk
consumers, retail chains, and state
governments.
● Sales are conducted through e-
auctions at pre-determined prices.
● Objective: Improve and regulate
domestic supply, ensure availability, and stabilize prices during lean seasons.
● Helps to curb food grain inflation by providing additional supply in the open market.

Central Pool of Food Grains
● The FCI procures food grains during the Rabi and Kharif marketing seasons as per the
Minimum Support Price (MSP).
● The central pool is used for various purposes:
○ Providing grains to the 80 crore beneficiaries of free food grains under the
National Food Security Act (NFSA).
○ Maintaining a buffer stock for emergencies and price stabilization.
○ Holding a marketable surplus for sales under the OMSS.
OMSS Operation
● The OMSS is activated during the lean season, which is the period between harvests
when domestic supply might be relatively lower.
● The surplus grains from the central pool are sold through e-auctions to various entities in
the open market.
● Bidders can purchase specified quantities of food grains at fixed prices set at the start of
a cycle and revised routinely.
Revised OMSS Guidelines

● Recently, the Centre decided to restrict the quantity that a single bidder can purchase in a
single bid.
● Earlier maximum quantity allowed: 3,000 metric tonnes (MT) per bid for a buyer.
● Revised range: 10-100 MT per bid to accommodate more small and marginal buyers and
ensure wider reach of the scheme.
● Aims to curb retail prices by breaking monopolies of bulk buyers and promoting
competitive bids from smaller buyers.
● Discontinuation of OMSS Supplies to States:
● The Centre stopped selling rice and wheat from the central pool under the OMSS
to state governments.
● Rationale: Ensure inflationary trends are kept under control and maintain
adequate stock levels in the central pool.
● This decision has led to tensions between the Centre and certain states, who
argue that it hampers their welfare schemes.
10. Railway Safety

Context
Recent rail accident in Balasore, Odisha.
Issues in Railway Safety:

● High Operating Ratio: High operating ratio (107.4% in 2021-22) limits spending on safety
and capacity upgradation.
● Derailments: 69% of railway accidents over FY18-FY21 were due to derailments,
highlighting track defects and maintenance issues.
● Lack of Modernization: Delay in upgrading infrastructure and track renewals, leading to
safety hazards.

● Congestion of Tracks: Over 10,000 km of trunk routes face capacity utilization over 125%,
affecting infrastructure maintenance.
● High Vacancies and Untrained staff: 3.12 lakh non-gazetted posts vacant, and
inadequately trained staff contribute to accidents.
● Overworked Pilots: Manpower shortages leading to loco pilots being deployed beyond
stipulated working hours.
Steps Taken for Railway Safety:

● Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK): Dedicated fund with ₹1-lakh crore corpus
extended for five years to clear safety backlogs.
● Increased Budgetary Expenditure: Record 2.4-trillion-rupee capital outlay to upgrade
tracks, ease congestion, and enhance safety.
● Kavach System: Automatic protection system to prevent train collisions and enhance
safety.
● Modernization Efforts: Mechanized track maintenance, bridge management system, and
electronic interlocking systems to improve safety.
● Elimination of Unmanned Level Crossings: Complete removal of unmanned level
crossings to reduce accidents.
Way Forward:
● Enhanced Funding for Safety: Allocate adequate funds for safety measures and timely
implementation of safety projects.
● Adoption of Technology: Embrace advanced technologies like sensor-based systems,
artificial intelligence, and data analytics for early detection of safety issues.
● Real-Time Reporting System: Implement a Confidential Incident Reporting and Analysis
System (CIRAS), used by British Railways, for real-time reporting of unsafe practices.
● Comprehensive Safety Audits: Regular safety audits and inspections to identify potential
risks and take proactive measures.

ENVIRONMENT & GEOGRAPHY
1. Bonn Climate Change Conference

Context
Recently, the Bonn Climate Conference took place, where countries discussed climate change
issues, including the Global Stocktake and the need for increased financial resources for climate
action.
Bonn Climate Conference Outcomes:

● Global Stocktake (GST): The countries concluded the third round of technical discussions
on the GST, an exercise aimed at assessing progress in combating climate change and
enhancing global action. However, disputes between developed and developing nations
persisted during the discussions.
● Historical Responsibility: Developing countries expressed concern over Australia's
attempt to downplay the historical responsibility of developed countries in causing global
warming. The issue of historical responsibility remains a sensitive red line for developing
nations and could lead to major conflicts during future conferences.
● Mitigation Work Programme (MWP): The MWP, established at COP26 in Glasgow,
focuses on increasing emission cuts to meet climate targets. Developing countries
demanded enhanced climate actions from developed nations, emphasizing the need for
financial and technological support.
● Financial Resources and Developing Nations: Developed countries are obligated to
support developing countries' climate action plans through financial aid and technology
transfers. However, the required funds are still insufficient, and developing countries face
challenges in implementing their climate action plans due to financial constraints.
2. Paris Summit for a New Global Financial Pact

Context
A two-day summit in Paris held to redirect global financial flows and raise new funding to combat
climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty.
Key Announcements
● Additional Lending Capacity: An additional lending capacity of $200 billion of Multi-
Development Banks (MDBs) unlocked for emerging economies.
● Disaster Clauses for Debt Deals: The World Bank announced disaster clauses for debt
deals that would suspend debt payment in extreme weather events.
● Special Drawing Rights (SDRs): IMF announced 100 billion in SDRs for vulnerable
countries.
● Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP): A new 2.5 billion Euro JETP deal announced
for Senegal to increase renewable energy share in the electricity mix.
● Momentum on Polluter Taxes: Support for a tax on shipping emissions and growing
traction for financial transactions tax.

● Paris Aligned Carbon Markets: EU unveiled a call to action on carbon pricing mechanisms,
aiming to cover 60% of global emissions.
● Climate Finance Goal: Suggested that the long overdue $100 billion climate finance goal
will be delivered this year.
3. El Nino
Context
The return of El Niño in the Pacific Ocean, as announced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) of the United States.
Highlights
● El Niño is a climate pattern that occurs in the equatorial Pacific Ocean every 2 to 7 years.
● It is characterised by unusual warming of surface waters along the central and east-central
Pacific Ocean.
4. Particulate Pollution
Context
As per the analysis by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), the Particulate matter pollution
is increasing in the cities of Rajasthan, which faces a multi-pollutant crisis with the levels of several
gaseous pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and Ozone.
Highlights
● The air quality is worsening in both big and small cities and towns despite the clean air
action being taken in the State.

● This has highlighted the systemic pollution which persists in the region because of
inadequate infrastructure for pollution control across all sectors.
● In cities like Jaipur, Kota and Udaipur, where the average 2022 levels had crossed the pre-
pandemic levels.
Health Impacts of Particulate Matter
5. Biparjoy Cyclone
Context
A cyclonic storm, named Biparjoy, developed in the Arabian Sea.

What are Tropical Cyclones?
● Tropical cyclones, also known as hurricanes
or typhoons in different regions, are powerful
and destructive weather systems that form
over warm ocean waters near the equator.
They are characterized by strong winds,
heavy rainfall, and low-pressure centers.
● Conditions for development of Tropical
Cyclones:
○ Warm Ocean Water: Tropical
cyclones form over warm ocean
waters, typically with sea surface
temperatures of at least 26.5°C.
○ Atmospheric Instability: The
atmosphere above the warm ocean
surface must be unstable, allowing
warm, moist air to rise rapidly and form thunderstorms.
○ Coriolis Effect: A certain distance away from the equator, the Coriolis effect,
caused by the Earth's rotation, is necessary to give the developing storm its
rotation.
○ Low Wind Shear: Tropical cyclones require low vertical wind shear, which means
that wind speed and direction should not change significantly with altitude. High
wind shear disrupts the vertical structure of the cyclone, inhibiting its
development.
○ Pre-existing Disturbance: Often, a pre-existing disturbance like a tropical wave or
low-pressure area serves as a starting point for cyclone development.
○ Moisture and Humidity: Abundant moisture and high humidity levels in the
atmosphere are crucial for fueling the storm's growth and intensification.
● Movement
○ Northern Hemisphere: tropical cyclones rotate anti-clockwise and typically move
in a westward to northwestward direction.
○ Southern Hemisphere: tropical cyclones rotate clockwise and move in
southeastward to southwestward direction.

Cyclone Preparedness in India:
● National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): The NDMA is the apex body
responsible for formulating policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management in
India, including cyclones.
● National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP): NCRMP is a government initiative
aimed at reducing the vulnerability of coastal communities to cyclones and storm surges.
It focuses on strengthening infrastructure, early warning systems, and capacity building.
● Early Warning Systems: India has a sophisticated cyclone warning system that includes
the India Meteorological Department (IMD) providing timely cyclone alerts and advisories
to the concerned authorities and the public.
● Cyclone Tracking: The IMD uses advanced technology such as Doppler radars and
satellites to track cyclones and monitor their intensity, speed, and direction.
● Cyclone Shelters: Coastal areas prone to cyclones have dedicated cyclone shelters or
multi-purpose community centers that can accommodate people during emergencies.
● Evacuation Plans: Authorities have well-defined evacuation plans in place to ensure the
safe movement of people living in vulnerable areas to cyclone shelters or safer locations.
● Awareness and Communication: Public awareness campaigns are conducted to educate
people about cyclones, safety measures, and evacuation procedures.
● NDRF and SDRF: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster
Response Force (SDRF) are specialized units trained in disaster response and rescue
operations.
6. Ground-level Ozone
Context
Parts of New Delhi and South Delhi were worst affected this summer by ground-level ozone
pollution, an important pollutant in the summer months, according to an analysis by the Centre
for Science and Environment (CSE).

About Ground-level Ozone
● Ground-level ozone, also known as tropospheric ozone, is a harmful air pollutant found
near the Earth's surface.
● Causes of Ground-Level Ozone:
○ Ground-level ozone is not directly emitted into the atmosphere. Instead, it is
formed through chemical reactions involving precursor pollutants:
■ Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted from vehicles, power plants, industrial
facilities, and other combustion sources.
■ Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from vehicle exhaust,
industrial processes, and certain household products.
○ In the presence of sunlight, NOx and VOCs undergo complex reactions, producing
ground-level ozone as a secondary pollutant. This is why Ground-level ozone is
more of a concern during the summers.
● Impacts of Ground-Level Ozone:
○ Human Health:
■ Ground-level ozone is a powerful respiratory irritant, and exposure to
high levels can cause respiratory problems such as coughing, throat
irritation, and difficulty breathing.
■ It can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions, like asthma and chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
■ Prolonged exposure to ground-level ozone can lead to reduced lung
function and increase the risk of respiratory infections.
○ Crop and Vegetation Damage:
■ Ground-level ozone damages plants by entering their stomata (small
pores) and interfering with photosynthesis.

■ It leads to reduced crop yields and diminished growth of trees and
vegetation.
○ Ecosystem Impacts:
■ Ground-level ozone negatively affects ecosystems, including forests and
natural habitats.
■ It disrupts nutrient cycling and can harm wildlife, particularly sensitive
species.
○ Climate Change:
■ Ground-level ozone is a greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change
and global warming.
○ Economic Impact:
■ Ground-level ozone pollution has economic consequences due to reduced
agricultural productivity, increased healthcare costs, and damage to
infrastructure.
7. Arctic Ice
Context
A recent study in the Nature journal says that the loss of Arctic sea ice is inevitable in the decades
ahead, even if the world somehow gets its act together and sharply reduces carbon emissions.
Significance of Arctic Ice

● Arctic sea ice plays a crucial role in influencing global climate and Arctic sea temperatures.
● During winter, sea ice covers most of the Arctic Ocean, while in summer, a portion of it
melts due to increased sunlight and temperatures.
● Sea ice reflects sunlight back into space, helping to keep polar regions cool and maintain
the Earth's energy balance.
● Sea ice acts as a barrier between cold air above and warmer water below, contributing to
cooling the air.
● Reduction in sea ice can initiate a feedback loop where ocean warming leads to further loss
of sea ice and more warming.
● Changes in sea ice can affect biodiversity and impact mammals such as polar bears and
walruses that rely on sea ice for hunting, breeding, and migrating.
● Reduction in ice cover also affects the traditional subsistence hunting lifestyle of
indigenous Arctic populations.
● Reduced ice can present commercial and economic opportunities, such as opening up
shipping lanes and increased access to natural resources in the Arctic region.
● Competition among countries, including India, for influence in governing access to Arctic
resources has intensified.
Insights of the Study

● Reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) acknowledge that
Arctic sea ice is decreasing, and the world is expected to witness its first 'sea-ice free
summer' before 2050.

● This projection assumes that global emissions will drive temperatures beyond 4.5°C,
leading to an ice-free Arctic by 2081-2100.
● There was uncertainty regarding whether reduced carbon emissions to limit temperature
rise to 1.5°C or 2°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, would prevent the sea-ice free
scenario.
● A recent study in the journal Nature confirms that there is no scenario in which the Arctic
sea ice can be saved in summer.
● Without drastic emissions reductions, the first ice-free summer in the Arctic could occur as
early as the 2030s.
● Satellite records indicate that the rate of Arctic sea ice loss has been nearly 13% every year
since monitoring began.
8. Forest Fire in Canada

Context
Some cities of North America, like Montreal, Toronto and New York, are impacted by the 400 fires
burning in Canada.
They are engulfed in heavy smog due to these wildfires which is posing a serious risk to the health.
Highlights
● Wildfire instances could be considered Canada’s worst wildfire recorded season impacting
over 7 million acres of land.
● Overall it impacted an estimated 115 million people with at least 13 US states have issued
air quality alerts.
● New York City’s air has the worst air quality, hazardous, among major cities.
● Due to the thick smoke coming from wildfires in southern Canada. It remains in the “very
unhealthy” category with Air Quality Index (AQI) levels going above 350.
● As observed by EU’s earth observation monitoring programme, Copernicus, the year 2023
has seen unusually severe wildfires in Russia, Spain, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Central
America.
● Indigenous Peoples are being forced to evacuate their homes due to these incidents.

9. Summer Solstice
Context
21st June is the day of the Summer Solstice in the northern hemisphere.
About Solstice:
● The solstices occur twice a year:
the summer solstice around June
20-21 and the winter solstice
around December 21-22.
● During the summer solstice, the
North Pole is tilted closest to the
Sun, resulting in the longest day
and shortest night of the year in
the Northern Hemisphere.
● Conversely, during the winter
solstice, the South Pole is tilted
closest to the Sun, leading to the
shortest day and longest night in
the Northern Hemisphere.
● The Sun's path in the sky is farthest north or south from the Equator during the solstices.
About Equinox
● The equinoxes also occur twice a year: the spring equinox around March 20-21 and the
autumnal equinox around September 22-23.
● During the equinoxes, the Sun is directly above the Equator, making day and night
approximately equal in length worldwide.
● The spring equinox marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, while the
autumnal equinox marks the start of fall.
● Equinoxes happen when the Earth's tilt is neither toward nor away from the Sun, resulting
in equal sunlight distribution on the planet.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
1. Transgenic Crops
Context
Three States, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Telangana, have deferred a proposal, approved by the
Centre’s Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), to test a new kind of transgenic cotton
seed that contains a gene, Cry2Ai, that makes cotton resistant to pink bollworm, a major pest.
About Transgenic Crops

● Transgenic crops are plants modified through genetic engineering techniques, where
specific genes are inserted into their DNA to impart new traits.
● In India, only Cotton is commercially cultivated as a GM crop. Trials are ongoing for crops
like brinjal, tomato, maize, and chickpea using transgenic technology.
● In October 2022, the GEAC approved the environmental release of Mustard hybrid DMH-11.
This is one step away from full commercial cultivation.
Regulatory Structure
● Ministry Responsible: The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(MoEFCC) regulates GMOs under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
● Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC): statutory body under Environment
(Protection) Act, 1986. It is authorised to review, monitor, and approve all GMO-related
activities, including field trials and commercial cultivation.
● Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): Regulates GM foods under the Food
Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Concerns Related to Transgenic Crops

● Environmental Impact: There are concerns that GM crops may have unintended
environmental effects, such as the potential to crossbreed with wild plant species, leading
to the spread of genetically modified traits in natural ecosystems.
● Biodiversity Loss: The widespread cultivation of GM crops could reduce biodiversity as
farmers may opt for a limited range of genetically modified varieties over traditional crop
diversity.
● Herbicide Resistance: Some GM crops are engineered to be resistant to specific herbicides,
which may lead to the overuse of herbicides and the development of herbicide-resistant
weeds, posing challenges for weed control.
● Pest Resistance: Pests may develop resistance to the toxins produced by genetically
modified crops, leading to the emergence of new pest strains that are more difficult to
manage.
● Health Concerns: There is ongoing debate about the potential long-term health effects of
consuming GM foods, and some argue that certain genetic modifications could have
unintended health consequences.
● Contamination of Non-GM Crops: There is a risk of cross-contamination between GM and
non-GM crops, which can be problematic for organic farmers and consumers seeking to
avoid genetically modified foods.

● Seed Patents and Control: The patenting of GM seeds by biotech companies raises
concerns about the concentration of seed ownership and control, potentially limiting
farmers' access to traditional seeds and increasing seed costs.
● Ethical Issues: There are ethical concerns about genetic engineering and its impact on
nature and the food system, including questions about the commodification of life and the
potential for corporate control over the food supply.
● Socioeconomic Impacts: The adoption of GM crops may favor larger, wealthier farmers
who can afford the technology, potentially marginalizing small-scale farmers and
exacerbating social and economic disparities.
2. Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) Drugs

Context
Recently, the Central Government of India banned 14 fixed-dose combination (FDC) medicines
commonly used to treat cough, fever, and infections.
About FDCs
● According to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), FDCs refer to
pharmaceutical products containing two or more active ingredients combined in a fixed
ratio within a single dosage form.
● These combinations are intended to treat specific medical conditions and provide
therapeutic benefits.
Concerns related to FDCs
● Increased risk of side effects and adverse drug interactions due to multiple active
ingredients in FDC drugs.
● Regulatory challenges in evaluating safety and efficacy of complex formulations.
● Potential overuse and misuse of FDC drugs, leading to health risks.
● Limited or insufficient clinical evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of some FDCs.
● Difficulty in identifying the specific ingredient responsible for adverse reactions.
● Potential impact on drug resistance, especially in the case of antibiotics.
● Lack of patient awareness about FDC composition and potential risks.
3. Generative AI
Context
In the wake of newly released models such as Stable Diffusion and ChatGPT, generative AI has
become a ‘hot topic’ for technologists, investors, policymakers and society at large.
About Generative AI
● Generative AI is an advanced application of machine learning and artificial intelligence to
create new forms of media, including text, audio, video, and animations.

● Powered by technologies like GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks), LLMs (Large
Language Models), GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformers), it can generate creative
and original content based on simple text prompts.
Significance and Use Cases of Generative AI

● Generative AI has numerous applications, such as crafting sales and marketing messages,
generating personalized social media posts, and creating original imagery for branding.
● For example, ChatGPT can write blogs, computer code, marketing copies, and even
generate search query results.
● DALL.E, a generative image generation service, can create futuristic artwork based on
textual prompts like "futuristic athletic sneaker, digital art, 3D render on a yellow
background with paint splashing in the air."
● GitHub Copilot can suggest entire functions and snippets to enhance developer
productivity and code-writing efficiency.
● In healthcare, generative AI like DeepMind AlphaFold can predict the shape of proteins,
aiding medical diagnosis and treatment.
● It also plays a role in architecture and engineering by enabling the creation and simulation
of complex designs and floor plans.
Concerns and Ethical Considerations

● The use of generative AI raises concerns about potential biases and discrimination. If
trained on biased data, it may produce offensive or prejudiced content.
● There is a risk of misuse, such as creating deepfakes, disinformation, and propaganda.
● Data privacy and security are important considerations, as generative AI may access
sensitive information.
● The accuracy of complex engineering and medical diagnosis generated by AI systems
might be a concern.

● Determining responsibility for content generated by generative AI can be challenging,
leading to accountability issues.
4. Hiroshima AI Process (HAP)

Context
Hiroshima AI Process (HAP) initiated at the G7 Summit in Hiroshima, to determine a way forward
to regulate artificial intelligence (AI).
About Hiroshima AI Process (HAP)

● HAP aims to advance international
discussions on inclusive AI governance
and interoperability, considering the
impact of policy developments and
projects related to generative AI.
● It emphasizes the significance of AI
aligned with values such as freedom,
democracy, and human rights, while
promoting fairness, accountability,
transparency, and safety in AI development and implementation.
● The HAP is an effort to involve relevant stakeholders from multi-stakeholder international
organizations and processes to ensure fair and transparent decision-making.
5. Higgs Boson Decay

Context
Recently, the physicists working with the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) particle-smasher at CERN,
in Europe, reported that they had detected a Higgs boson decaying into a Z boson particle and a
photon.
Standard Model of Physics

● The Standard Model is a fundamental theory
in particle physics that describes the building
blocks of the universe and the forces that
govern their interactions.
● It classifies particles into two categories:
fermions (matter particles) and bosons
(force-carrying particles).
● Fermions include quarks and leptons, which
make up protons, neutrons, and electrons.
● Bosons include photons, W and Z bosons,
and the elusive Higgs boson, responsible for
giving particles mass.
Higgs Boson

● The Higgs boson is a subatomic particle that exists in the Higgs field, believed to pervade
the universe.
● Particles interact with the Higgs field, acquiring mass through their interactions with
Higgs bosons.
● Mass determines a particle's weight and how it responds to forces, making the Higgs
boson a crucial element in understanding the universe.
Higgs Boson Decay

● The Higgs boson is an unstable particle and can decay into lighter particles over time.
● Detecting different decay pathways helps physicists validate the predictions of the
Standard Model and explore new physics.
● Physicists at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) recently detected a rare decay of the Higgs
boson into a Z boson and a photon.
Higgs Boson Decay Pathway

● The decay pathway of the Higgs boson into a Z boson and a photon is predicted to occur
about 0.1% of the time in the Standard Model.
● The LHC accelerates protons and collides them to create Higgs bosons.
● The created Higgs bosons interact with virtual particles present in space, leading to the
decay into a Z boson and a photon.
Importance of Detecting the Decay

● Confirming the decay pathway helps validate the predictions of the Standard Model.
● Detecting deviations from the predicted decay rate could indicate new physics beyond
the Standard Model.
● This could offer insights into dark matter and other mysteries of the universe.
6. Phonons
About Phonons
● Phonons are packets of vibrational energy, akin to particles of sound.
● They can be used as information units in quantum computing, similar to qubits in other
systems.
● Researchers have developed an acoustic beam-splitter to manipulate phonons.
● Phonons exhibit quantum interference, similar to photons in optics.
● While the study confirms phonon behaviour in quantum mechanics, practical quantum
computing with phonons is still in early stages.
Feature Photon Phonon
Nature Photons are particles of Phonons are packets of

electromagnetic radiation (light) vibrational energy (sound)
Type of Energy Photons carry electromagnetic Phonons carry mechanical or

energy vibrational energy

Role in Quantum Photons are commonly used as Phonons have potential as
Computing qubits in optical quantum computing information units in phonon-
based quantum computing,
but this technology is still in
its early stages

HISTORY & CULTURE
1. Mesolithic-era Rock Painting
Context
Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India, discovered a Mesolithic rock painting in Orvakallu
village, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh.
Highlights
● The rock painting is from the Mesolithic
period and was discovered in Orvakallu
village, Guntur district, Andhra
Pradesh, India.
● The painting is found on the walls and
ceilings of natural rock shelters on a
hillock.
● Believed to be approximately from
5000 BC.
● Created using natural white kaolin and
red ochre pigments.
● Most of the paintings have suffered damage due to exposure to air and wind.
● Some of the sketches and outlines are still preserved.
● Depictions include scenes of a man catching a wild goat and a figure holding a plough.
● Provides valuable insights into the social life and culture of the prehistoric people who lived
in the area.
2. Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library Society

Context
The Union Culture Ministry announced that the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML)
would now be called the Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library Society.
About Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML)

● It is an autonomous institution dedicated to the preservation and study of India's political
history, particularly the life and work of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
● established in 1964
● Under Ministry of Culture
3. Akhand Bharat
Context
Akhand Bharat mural in the new Parliament building.
About Akhand Bharat

● Akhand Bharat, meaning "Undivided India," is a concept rooted in ancient Indian culture.

● It envisions a united Indian nation that stretches
from present-day Afghanistan to Myanmar and
Tibet to Sri Lanka, based on historical and cultural
ties.
● Historian Radha Kumud Mookerji first articulated
the idea of Akhand Bharat in 1944 at an "Akhand
Bharat Conference."
● The Sangh Parivar, including the RSS (Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh), has long nurtured the idea
of Akhand Bharat and published maps depicting
its extent.
● While the RSS views Akhand Bharat as a "cultural"
entity, not a political or nationalistic one, it still
hopes for reunification through goodwill.
● The idea of Akhand Bharat has been mentioned by
some BJP leaders in political speeches, asserting
the territorial integrity of independent India.
● A mural in the new Parliament building depicting Akhand Bharat has caused concern in
Nepal, with politicians calling for diplomatic action.
● The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the mural represents the spread of the
Ashokan empire and the idea of responsible governance.
● Akhand Bharat remains significant in the imagination of some with cultural and historical
ties to the regions labeled as part of Undivided India.
4. Gandhi Peace Prize

Context
The Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2021 is being conferred on Gita Press, Gorakhpur.
About Gandhi Peace Prize

● Instituted in 1995: The Gandhi Peace Prize was established by the Government of India in
1995 to commemorate the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his 125th Birth
Anniversary.
● Annual Award: It is an annual award presented to individuals and organizations for their
remarkable contributions to promoting peace, social harmony, and Gandhian values.
● Inclusive Recognition: The award is open to all individuals and entities, irrespective of
nationality, race, language, caste, creed, or gender.
● Prize Components: The awardees receive a cash prize of Rs. 1 crore, a citation, a plaque,
and an exquisite traditional handicraft or handloom item.
About Gita Press, Gorakhpur

● The Jury, headed by Prime Minister Modi, unanimously selected Gita Press for its
exceptional contribution to social, economic, and political transformation through non-
violent and Gandhian methods.

● Founded in 1923, Gita Press is renowned as one of the world's largest publishers, having
printed 41.7 crore books in 14 languages, including 16.21 crore copies of the Shrimad
Bhagvad Gita.
● Non-Commercial Endeavor: Notably, Gita Press has never relied on advertisements in its
publications for revenue generation, focusing on community service and the well-being of
all.
● Promoting Gandhian Ideals: The institution's recognition with the Gandhi Peace Prize
highlights its role in propagating Gandhian ideals of peace, non-violence, and social
harmony.
5. GI Tags
Context
Seven products from Uttar Pradesh get the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Product Features
Amroha Dholak Musical instrument made of natural wood, carved hollow blocks and
fitted with animal skin for sound
Baghpat Home Exclusive handloom home furnishing product made from cotton yarn,
Furnishings known for traditional geometric patterns.
Barabanki Handloom Scarfs, shawls, and stoles handwoven in the cluster famous since the
Product Nawab's period of Lucknow.
Kalpi Handmade Paper Eco-friendly handmade paper made from various paper scraps and
natural materials like flower petals and grass.
Mahoba Gaura Patthar Stone craft made from radiant white-colored 'Pyro Flight Stone'
Hastashlip found in the region, used for crafting various items.
Mainpuri Tarkashi Fine inlay work with brass wire on dark sheesham wood, used for
furniture, boxes, sandals, and idol crafting.
Sambhal Horn Craft Handicrafts made from horns procured from dead animals, entirely
hand-made and environment-friendly.

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1.

GLOBAL STARTUP ECOSYSTEM REPORT 2023

GOVERNANCE & SOCIAL ISSUES ..................... 10 ENVIRONMENT & GEOGRAPHY ...................... 39

1. MANUAL SCAVENGING ...................................... 10 1. BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE .......... 39

SECURITY AND DEFENCE .................................. 24 HISTORY & CULTURE ......................................... 54

1. NAFIS ................................................................. 24 1. MESOLITHIC-ERA ROCK PAINTING ................. 54

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Section 124A of the IPC

Arguments against Sedition:

Supreme Court’s view:

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Recent recommendations of the Law Commission:

About the case:

Article 299 of the Constitution:

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3. Reforming the Arbitration Legal Framework

What is Arbitration and Conciliation?

Legal backing to the alternative

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Salient provisions of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996:

The main objective of the Act:

The main issue faced by the dispute resolution environment in India:

Why is the T K Vishwanathan committee constituted?

The terms of reference for the committee:

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Significance of these recommendations:

5. State Election Commission

About State Election Commissions (SECs)

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6. General Consent to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

Understanding "General Consent"

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Controversies and Challenges

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The practice of manual scavenging in India:

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2. WHO Report on the ‘Har Ghar Jal’ Program

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Main reasons for child trafficking in India

Laws governing anti-trafficking crimes

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4. CITIIS 2.0: City Investments to Innovate, Integrate, and

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Component 1: Promoting Circular Economy and Integrated Waste Management: This

Component 3: Institutional Strengthening and Knowledge Dissemination: This component

Funding and Support:

5. Gender Gap Report 2023

About Gender Gap Report

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6. NIRF Ranking 2023

About National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)

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Overall IIT Madras

University IISc, Bengaluru

College Miranda House, Delhi

Management IIM Ahmedabad

Pharmacy NIPER, Hyderabad

Medical AIIMS, Delhi

Dental SIMTS, Chennai

Law NLU, Bengaluru

Research IISc, Bengaluru

Architecture IIT Roorkee