GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

Recent geopolitical tensions have seen Canada extend accusations against India regarding plots against Sikh citizens, while the US has filed charges against an Indian government employee linked to a failed assassination attempt on a Sikh separatist advocate in New York. This situation raises critical questions about the nature of India-US ties—whether they are based on shared values or strategic interests.

Historical Overview

• Crisis-Forged Relationship: The India-US relationship has historically been shaped by crises. The relationship has evolved significantly since India's independence, with both countries navigating various diplomatic challenges and conflicts, including the 1971 War and subsequent nuclear tests.
• Shifting Dynamics: Despite being on opposing sides during the Cold War, cooperation existed between the US and India in the 1950s and 60s, particularly in military and intelligence capabilities aimed at countering China. This cooperative spirit resurfaced in the 1990s, leading to a more robust and bipartisan relationship.
• Trade and Strategic Partnership: As of 2022, the US emerged as India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding USD 191 billion. The two countries have aligned their interests in confronting challenges, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, enhancing the strategic partnership.

Key Areas of Cooperation

• Security and Military Collaboration: India has entered agreements to acquire US military drones and established foundational defense cooperation frameworks, facilitating shared access to military facilities and supplies.
  • Annual military exercises and dialogues, such as the 2 + 2 ministerial meetings and Malabar naval drills, underscore the strong defense ties, including intelligence-sharing on counter-terrorism.
• International Development Initiatives: The Quad partnership exemplifies India-US collaboration in providing developmental assistance to third countries. This cooperation was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when both nations coordinated vaccine and therapeutic distribution.
• Diplomatic Engagement: The US has supported India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, reflecting their commitment to enhanced diplomatic collaboration. Joint efforts in international forums continue to solidify this partnership.

The Supreme Court of India has recently urged Parliament to consider amending the Prevention of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) of 2006 to explicitly outlaw child betrothals. The Court highlighted that existing laws can be evaded through the practice of child betrothals, which deny children their autonomy and free choice regarding marriage. This directive comes as part of a broader judgment addressing the significant issues surrounding child marriages in India, aiming to enhance the protection and rights of minors.

Key Takeaways from the Supreme Court's Judgment

• Outlawing Child Betrothals: The Court emphasized the need for legal reforms to prohibit child betrothals, as they allow evasion of penalties under the PCMA.
• International Treaties: The judgment referenced international agreements, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), which advocate against child marriages.
• Community-Driven Approach: The Court underscored the importance of awareness campaigns over mere prosecution, advocating for community involvement in preventing child marriages.
• Impact on Both Genders: The judgment recognized that child marriages adversely affect both girls and boys, imposing premature responsibilities and denying their childhood.
• Comprehensive Measures Needed: The Court noted that existing government schemes are insufficient, advocating for a multi-faceted approach involving training, financial incentives, and awareness programs.
• Which Rights Are Affected? Child marriages infringe upon multiple fundamental rights:
  • Right to Childhood (Article 21): Children are deprived of their childhood and the right to make autonomous choices regarding their lives.
  • Right to Education (Article 21-A): Early marriage often ends educational opportunities for girls, restricting their development and independence.
  • Right to Health (Article 21): Child brides face significant health risks associated with early pregnancy and childbirth, undermining their physical and mental well-being.
  • Right to Reproductive Choice: The ability to make decisions regarding reproduction is often removed from young brides, violating their bodily autonomy.

The Matter: Child Marriages in India

Despite legal frameworks, child marriage remains prevalent in India. According to the National Family Health Survey 2019-2021:

• Prevalence Rates:3% of girls under 18 and 17.7% of boys under 21 are affected by child marriage.
• Historical Context: The prevalence of child marriages halved since the PCMA was enacted, from 47% in 2006 to 23.3% in 2021. However, significant gaps in enforcement and societal attitudes persist.

Government Interventions and Policies

The Indian government has introduced several measures to combat child marriage:

• Prevention of Child Marriage Act (2006): This law prohibits child marriages and provides penalties for violations.
• Betting on Education: Programs such as the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme aim to promote girls' education and discourage child marriage.
• National Action Plan: Initiatives focused on awareness and community involvement to change societal norms around child marriage.
• Financial Incentives: Some states provide financial assistance to families for keeping girls in school, aimed at delaying marriage.

Atmospheric rivers are shifting toward higher latitudes, and that’s changing weather patterns around the world.

What are Atmospheric Rivers?

• Atmospheric riversare large, narrow sections of the Earth’s atmosphere that carry moisture from the Earth’s tropics near the equator to the poles.
• Similar to terrestrial rivers, atmospheric rivers can vary in strength and size. They carry massive amounts of moisture.
• On average, the Earth has four to five active atmospheric rivers at any time.
• Occurrence: They can occur both in the:
  • Northern hemisphere – typically between December and February
  • Southern hemisphere – typically between June and August, when extratropical cyclones are prevalent
• Each moves the equivalent of the liquid water that flows through the mouth of the Amazon River. When they reach land, atmospheric rivers release this moisture, producing heavy snow and rain.
• Role of atmospheric rivers:
  • Atmospheric rivers are responsible for 90 percent of the movement of moisture from the tropics toward the poles.
  • They are a major factor in the formation of cloudsand therefore have a significant influence on air temperatures, sea ice, and other components of the climate.

In a notable step towards enhancing bilateral relations, India has extended a Line of Credit (LoC) worth Rs 487.60 crore to the Government of Mauritius. This financial assistance aims to replace approximately 100 kilometers of outdated water pipelines in the island nation. This marks the first-ever rupee-denominated Line of Credit extended by India to any country for project financing under the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS).

Key Details of the Line of Credit

• First Rupee-Denominated Line of Credit: This LoC is the first-ever rupee-denominated Line of Credit extended by India for project financing under the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS).
• Traditionally, India has extended its Lines of Credit in US dollars, but the introduction of a rupee-denominated LOC marks a strategic shift.
• This scheme aims to provide concessional loans to support developmental projects in partner countries.
• Financing Agency: The project will be financed by the State Bank of India (SBI) on concessional terms, ensuring affordable repayment conditions for Mauritius.
• Project Objectives: The primary objective of this financial assistance is to facilitate the replacement of around 100 kilometers of obsolete water pipelines in Mauritius. The existing pipeline infrastructure has been deemed outdated and in need of urgent replacement to ensure efficient water supply and management.
• Impact on Mauritius
  • Infrastructure Improvement: The project is expected to enhance the reliability and quality of water supply for the residents of Mauritius.
  • Sustainable Development: By improving water infrastructure, India aims to contribute to the sustainable development goals of Mauritius, promoting better health and hygiene standards.

The Jammu & Kashmir Cabinet headed by Chief Minister has passed the resolution for the restoration of statehood.

Constitutional Provisions

• Article 3 of the Constitution of India specifies the power of Parliament to form a new State out of an existing State or by uniting two or more States/territories or by joining any territory to a State.
• Constitutionally, it is the President who has the power to initiate the process for creation of new state or states.
• He can do it on his own or he can do it in consultation with the state from which new state has to be carved out. Such state or states can request the President about its willingness to carve a new state out of its/their existing size.
• The concerned state or states do so by passing a resolution in the state legislature to this effect.
• In the light of the resolution, the President may ask the Union government to present a bill for passage in the both houses of Parliament.
• If passed by the both houses, it is sent to President for getting his/her consent, after President gives consent, the (bill/decision) is notified and the process of creation of the new state begins.

In 2023, President Vladimir Putin has intensified his rhetoric surrounding Russia's nuclear capabilities as a strategic counter to Western support for Ukraine. This year alone, he has ordered military drills involving battlefield nuclear weapons with Belarus, announced plans to produce ground-based intermediate-range missiles, and revised Russia's nuclear doctrine to lower the threshold for nuclear engagement.

Overview of Russia's Nuclear Arsenal

• Strategic Nuclear Weapons: Russia possesses approximately 5,580 nuclear warheads, both deployed and non-deployed. This figure positions Russia as the owner of the largest nuclear arsenal in the world, followed closely by the United States with 5,044 warheads. Together, these two countries control around 88% of global nuclear weapons.
• Nuclear Triad: Russia's nuclear capabilities include a triad of delivery systems:
  • Ground-Based Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs): Russia has enhanced its land-based missile capabilities with new systems, including the mobile Yars ICBMs and the heavy, silo-based Sarmat ICBMs, nicknamed "Satan II" in the West. The Sarmat is set to replace older Soviet-built R-36M missiles, though it has faced operational challenges, including a failed test last month.
  • Long-Range Bombers: The Soviet-era Tu-95 and Tu-160 bombers remain operational, carrying nuclear-armed cruise missiles. Production of upgraded Tu-160s has resumed, aiming for several dozen units equipped with modern engines and avionics.
  • Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs): Russia has added seven Borei-class submarines to its fleet, each capable of carrying 16 Bulava nuclear missiles, thus strengthening its naval nuclear deterrent. Plans are in place to build five additional Borei-class submarines.
• Non-Strategic Nuclear Weapons: Russia is estimated to have between 1,000 and 2,000 non-strategic or tactical nuclear weapons designed for battlefield use. These weapons are typically less powerful than strategic warheads but are capable of causing significant destruction in localized scenarios.
• Key Tactical Systems
  • Iskander Missiles: These high-precision ground-launched missiles have a range of up to 310 miles and can be fitted with either conventional or nuclear warheads.
  • Kinzhal Hypersonic Missile: Carried by MiG-31 fighter jets, this missile can also carry nuclear or conventional warheads, enhancing Russia's tactical capabilities.
• Nuclear Doctrine and Deterrence Strategy
  • Moscow has historically relied on the doctrine of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD), which posits that a nuclear attack would result in overwhelming retaliation, deterring initial strikes.
  • The revised nuclear doctrine, adopted in 2020, stipulates conditions under which Russia might use nuclear weapons, including in response to conventional attacks that threaten the existence of the Russian state.
• Future of Arms Control: The last remaining arms control agreement between the U.S. and Russia, the New START treaty, limits each country to 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed missiles and bombers. However, Putin suspended Russia's participation in this treaty in February 2023 while asserting that Russia would still adhere to its limits. Moreover, the announcement of plans to produce ground-based intermediate-range missiles signals a shift away from previous arms control commitments.

The Indian Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence has prioritized discussions on the Indian Armed Forces' preparedness for "hybrid warfare." The focus will include both kinetic and non-kinetic warfare, alongside advancements in anti-drone technologies.

What is Hybrid Warfare?

• Hybrid warfare refers to a strategy that blends conventional military force with non-traditional tactics, such as cyber operations, misinformation campaigns, and economic pressures. It encompasses a wide range of tactics that can be employed simultaneously to achieve strategic objectives.
• Key Features of Hybrid Warfare:
  • Combination of Tactics: Hybrid warfare employs both kinetic (physical military actions) and non-kinetic (psychological, informational, and economic tactics) methods to achieve strategic goals.
  • Multi-Domain Approach: It operates across various domains, including land, air, sea, cyberspace, and information, making it difficult to counter using traditional military strategies.
  • Non-State Actors: Hybrid warfare often involves non-state actors, such as terrorist groups or organized crime syndicates, in addition to state-sponsored initiatives.
  • Psychological and Information Warfare: This strategy frequently utilizes misinformation and propaganda to influence public perception and destabilize opponents.
  • Technological Integration: Advances in technology enable more effective execution of hybrid tactics, including cyberattacks and the use of drones.

What is Non-Kinetic Warfare?

• Non-kinetic warfare is a subset of hybrid warfare that emphasizes tactics not involving direct military confrontation or kinetic force. It includes a wide array of strategies aimed at achieving objectives without physical combat.
• Key Components of Non-Kinetic Warfare:
  • Cyber Warfare: This involves attacks on a nation's critical infrastructure through hacking, malware, and other cyber methods. For instance, disabling power grids or healthcare systems can have devastating effects without a single shot being fired.
  • Electronic Warfare: This includes jamming communications or using electromagnetic weapons to disrupt enemy operations.
  • Psychological Operations: These operations are designed to influence the perceptions and behaviors of enemy forces or civilian populations, often using propaganda and disinformation.
  • Information Warfare: This aspect focuses on controlling information flow and utilizing media to sway public opinion and political outcomes.
  • Economic Warfare: Tactics may include sanctions, trade restrictions, and efforts to destabilize an opponent’s economy, thus weakening their ability to respond militarily.

Examples in Recent Conflicts:

• The Russia-Ukraine conflict has showcased hybrid tactics, where cyber operations and misinformation campaigns played crucial roles alongside conventional military engagements.
• In the Israel-Palestine conflict, similar tactics have been observed, indicating the evolving landscape of warfare that extends beyond traditional military confrontations.

The Indian Ministry of Defence has announced that GE Aerospace will supply LM2500 marine gas turbine engine kits to power six Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) for the Indian Navy. These vessels will be built by Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi.

Key Features of the LM2500 Marine Gas Turbine Engine

• Engine Specifications: The LM2500 marine gas turbine is engineered for high performance, capable of propelling modern naval vessels effectively. It provides a power output that allows ships to achieve high speeds and enhanced operational efficiency.
• Auxiliary Systems: In addition to the engines, GE Aerospace will supply a full range of gas turbine auxiliary systems, essential for optimal engine performance and reliability.
• Existing Applications: The LM2500 engines are already in service in various Indian naval platforms, including:
  • Six Shivalik-class frigates
  • INS Vikrant, India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, which is powered by four LM2500 gas turbines.
• Global Reliability: Over 714 vessels worldwide utilize GE Aerospace’s marine gas turbines, underscoring their reliability and availability in naval operations.

Importance of the Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs)

• Design and Capability: The NGMVs will be equipped to launch BrahMos missiles, making them formidable assets for the Indian Navy. They will be capable of reaching speeds up to 35 knots (65 kilometers per hour) and will carry advanced anti-surface weaponry.
• Stealth Requirements: The propulsion system, centered around the LM2500 engine, is designed to meet the stealth requirements necessary for modern naval warfare.
• Historical Significance: The Indian Navy has a strong tradition of conducting successful ship-to-shore missile attacks, notably during the 1971 war against Pakistan. The development of NGMVs aims to strengthen this legacy and enhance the navy's operational capabilities.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently alleged that Indian agencies were involved in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Khalistani activist. This allegation has sparked significant diplomatic tensions between Canada and India, especially as it comes amid Trudeau's declining popularity and electoral pressures.

Allegations Against India

• Murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar: Nijjar, a prominent Khalistani activist, was killed in June 2023, leading the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to arrest four individuals but fail to provide substantial evidence.
• Trudeau's Claims: Trudeau cited “credible information” implicating Indian officials, further escalating tensions, especially after a Washington Post report linked a senior Indian minister to the incident.
• Political Motivations: Analysts suggest that Trudeau's allegations may be politically motivated, aimed at rallying support amid declining approval ratings and economic challenges in Canada.

Canada’s Terrorism Landscape

• History of Harboring Terrorism: Canada has long been criticized for allowing various terrorist groups to operate within its borders, including Khalistani extremists and Islamist factions.
• Statements from Security Officials: Former CSIS director Ward Elcock noted the significant presence of international terrorist groups in Canada, which have engaged in various activities, including fundraising and recruitment.
• Inaction on Terrorism: Critics, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, argue that Trudeau's government has returned to a lax stance on terrorism, reversing efforts to curb extremist activities.

Diplomatic Implications

• Response to Trudeau's Accusations: India is urged to confront the allegations head-on, considering its vocal stance against terrorism in other contexts, particularly regarding Pakistan.
• Double Standards in International Relations: The article critiques India’s reluctance to challenge Western nations like Canada, which profess ideals of freedom and human rights while enabling terrorism.
• Call for Accountability: There are calls for India to expose Canada’s failure to address terrorism adequately, suggesting that Trudeau's government may be seen as indirectly supporting such activities.

Practice Question

Q. Assess the implications of Canada’s approach to managing terrorist activities within its borders, particularly in light of recent allegations involving Indian agencies. How should India respond to maintain its national security and diplomatic integrity?

India's ascent as a significant player in technological innovation and entrepreneurship is making headlines, marking a shift from its previous ranking in the third quartile of innovative nations. The country's start-up ecosystem is experiencing explosive growth, positioning India as a leader in creativity and technology on the global stage. This transformation is underpinned by robust government initiatives aimed at nurturing innovation and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.

Thriving Start-Up Ecosystem

• Global Ranking: India is now the third-largest start-up ecosystem worldwide, with projections of tech start-ups increasing from 68,000 in 2023 to 180,000 by 2030.
• Unicorn Success: As of January 2024, India has 111 unicorns valued at over $350 billion, showcasing its capacity to nurture high-value companies across various sectors.
• Democratisation of Entrepreneurship: Start-up activity is expanding beyond major cities into Tier-2 and Tier-3 locations, indicating broader access to entrepreneurial opportunities.

Key Government Initiatives

• NIDHI Programme: The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) has created a network of technology business incubators and entrepreneur parks, enhancing collaboration between public institutions and start-ups.
• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): AIM has established over 4,880 Atal Tinkering Labs in more than 650 districts, making innovative tools accessible to over two million students, thus fostering grassroots innovation.
• NITI Aayog's Policy-Driven Innovation: NITI Aayog’s efforts have optimized strategic sectors such as electric vehicles and biotechnology, leading to notable progress in key innovation indicators.

Achievements and Future Prospects

• Global Innovation Index: India ranks first among lower-middle-income countries in the Global Innovation Index, improving from 81st in 2015 to 40th globally.
• Contributions to Key Sectors: India ranks fifth in ICT services exports, sixth in venture capital received, and eleventh in graduates in science and engineering.
• Cultural Impact: The initiatives have instilled a culture of innovation even at school levels, fostering millions of young innovators and entrepreneurs across the nation.

Practice Question

Q. Discuss the role of government initiatives in transforming India into a global hub of technological innovation and entrepreneurship. What are the implications of this transformation for the country’s economic future?

The Char Dham Highway Project in Uttarakhand, aimed at enhancing religious tourism, faces intense scrutiny due to its devastating environmental impacts. Recent research indicates that road-widening has significantly increased the frequency of landslides, raising concerns about safety, ecological balance, and the effectiveness of government infrastructure strategies in fragile mountainous regions.

Environmental Impact

• Landslide Frequency: A study revealed 309 landslides along the Char Dham road after extreme rainfall in 2022, with a landslide density of 1.25 per kilometer.
• Road-Widening Consequences: The project has doubled the occurrence of landslides, primarily due to improper construction practices disregarding local geology.
• Predicted Climate Change Effects: Researchers warn that increased summer monsoon precipitation could lead to more frequent landslides and fatalities, exacerbating existing ecological vulnerabilities.

Government Oversight

• Environmental Norm Violations: The Char Dham Project violates environmental conservation strategies, undertaken without thorough scientific assessments of its geological and ecological implications.
• Bureaucratic Loopholes: Authorities split the project into over 50 smaller projects to evade stringent environmental clearances, raising questions about accountability.
• Judicial Complications: Although initially criticized for its width, the Supreme Court ultimately permitted road widening citing national security, ignoring prior environmental recommendations.

Local Community Distress

• Population Decline: The implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects has led to depopulation in rural areas, with many villages becoming uninhabited.
• Economic Shifts: Increased motorized tourism encourages external entrepreneurs to dominate local markets, driving locals away from traditional agricultural livelihoods.
• Government Responses: While the government touts job growth in tourism, efforts to prevent land sales to outsiders are insufficient to mitigate the underlying environmental distress.

Practice Question

Q. Critically evaluate the Char Dham Highway Project's impact on environmental sustainability and local communities in Uttarakhand, considering the balance between infrastructural development and ecological preservation.