GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

Gender performativity, introduced by Judith Butler in her 1990 work Gender Trouble, has become a foundational concept in gender theory. It offers a nuanced framework for understanding gender as a fluid, socially constructed identity rather than a fixed binary associated with biological sex. This perspective invites a re-evaluation of traditional gender norms, highlighting the roles that societal expectations play in shaping individual identities.

Key Dimensions of Gender Performativity

Conceptual Foundations

• Social Construction: Butler argues that gender is not inherent or biologically predetermined but is constructed through repeated actions and societal discourse. This challenges the essentialist view that ties gender identity directly to biological sex.
• Fluidity of Identity: Gender is seen as dynamic and changeable, shaped by context and culture rather than fixed traits. This notion aligns with third-wave feminism and queer theory, promoting a more inclusive understanding of gender.

Theories of Gender

• Gender Essentialism vs. Social Constructivism:
  • Essentialism posits that gender roles are biologically predetermined, leading to a static view of identity.
  • Constructivism posits that gender is formed through social norms and experiences, emphasizing how individuals internalize and perform gendered behaviors.
• Example of Social Norms: In educational settings, boys and girls are often subjected to different expectations—such as hair length or behavior—demonstrating how societal norms enforce rigid gender roles.

Butler’s Argument

• Critique of Binary Distinction: Butler critiques the separation of sex and gender, asserting that even biological sex is socially interpreted. This view suggests that both sex and gender are intertwined and shaped by societal norms.
• Gender as Performance: Butler posits that gender is not something one is, but something one does—an ongoing enactment of societal roles rather than a static identity.

Performativity vs. Performance

• Performativity: Refers to the repetitive nature of gender enactment that creates the illusion of a stable identity. It suggests that gender is an ongoing process, influenced by societal expectations.
• Performance: Implies conscious role-playing within defined gender norms. In contrast, performativity encompasses unconscious actions that reinforce these norms, suggesting that individuals learn gendered behaviors through socialization.

Critiques and Expansions

• Transgender Perspectives: Critics like Julia Serano challenge Butler’s framework for its potential inadequacies in addressing transgender experiences. Serano introduces the concept of "subconscious sex," arguing that gender identity can arise from internal inclinations independent of societal conditioning.
• Intersection of Internal and External Influences: While acknowledging the role of societal norms, Serano emphasizes that gender identity can be deeply personal and intrinsic, suggesting a more complex interplay between social influence and individual experience.

The World Bank's annual thematic report, the World Development Report (WDR), has this year focused on the concept of the middle-income (MI) trap. The report states that it would take us nearly 75 years to set foot outside the threshold of the middle-income trap, our economy is currently embroiled in.

What is a Middle-Income Economy?

• Since 1987, the World Bank has classified economies into four income categories:
  • High income (HI)
  • Upper middle income
  • Lower middle income
  • Low income
• Over 35 years, the number of HI countries has doubled from 41 to 86, while low-income countries have decreased from 49 to 26.
• The number of MI countries, however, has increased from 74 to 108. As of 2022, HI countries make up 16% of the world population but account for 60% of global GDP.
• As of now, 108 countries are classified as middle-income economies,comprising 75% of the global population and contribute about 38% of global GDP.
• Distinctions between high-income-level countries to those of low/middle income countries.

What is Middle-Income Trap?

• A middle-income trap (MIT)is a situation in which middle-income countries are unable to transition to a high-income economy for a sustained period of time.
• In simple terms, the MI trap refers to a phenomenon where countries reach a certain GDP per capita threshold (about 11% of the U.S. GDP per capita) but struggle to progress to high-income status.
• Rapid growth, closely followed by a period of economic downturn, is indicative of an MIT.
• According to the WDR, only 34 economies have successfully made this transition in the last 35 years.
• India’s condition
  • India transitioned from a low-income to a lower-middle-income economy in 2007.
  • With a per capita income of $2,400 in 2022, India represents about 3.1% of U.S. per capita income ($76,590).
  • As of June 2024, India’s external debt reached $663.8 billion, a $39.7 billion increase from March 2023. The central government’s internal debt was estimated at approximately ?131 trillion, up from ?99 trillion in 2021.
• The systemic slowdown in economic growth characteristic of the MI trap has persisted since 1970, with middle-income countries failing to surpass one-tenth of the U.S. GDP per capita.
• Factors Keeping Countries in the MI Trap: Despite understanding the components necessary for a developed economy—like strong macroeconomic foundations and governance—many middle-income countries struggle to escape the MI trap.
• Research highlights several contributing factors, including:
• Volatile economic growth
• Slowing productivity
• Undervalued exchange rates
• Weakening institutions
• Difficulty in channeling technological innovations
• Reduction in labour participation
• Income inequalities
• As these countries transition from low to middle-income status, they often face diminishing returns on investment, hindering further growth.

What are the solutions to escape the MI Trap?

• The WDR suggests that middle-income countries need to adopt new strategies, termed the "three Is": investment, infusion, and innovation. This approach outlines two crucial transitions:
  • Investment and Infusion: Lower-middle-income countries should focus on investment while imitating and diffusing modern technologies.
  • Innovation: Upper-middle-income countries should integrate innovation into their growth strategies to become modern tech leaders.
• Japan and South Korea exemplify these transitions, initially licensing technologies from industry leaders before evolving into technology innovators. The report also cites Eastern European nations like Estonia, Poland, and Bulgaria, which have managed their transitions at different paces.

Lessons for India

• While the potential for development is high, India must acknowledge the challenges ahead. Currently, there is no clear policy roadmap to becoming a developed nation.
• The WDR emphasizes the need for humility and agility, as it could take India nearly 75 years to reach even a quarter of U.S. GDP at current trends.
• To break past the middle-income threshold, macroeconomic indicators like TFP (Total Factor Productivity), Gross national income (GNI), capital investments, and research and development (R&D) must be prioritised. 

Recent torrential monsoon rains in Nepal have resulted in devastating floods, claiming the lives of over 200 people. This alarming situation highlights the dual nature of the South Asian monsoon—vital for agriculture and livelihoods but also a catalyst for destruction through floods and landslides.

What is the South Asian Monsoon?

• The Southwest or Asian Summer Monsoon is a significant meteorological phenomenon that delivers 70-80% of South Asia's annual rainfall from June to September.
• This system occurs when the intense summer heat warms the landmass of the Indian subcontinent, causing the air to rise and draw in cooler winds from the Indian Ocean.
• The result is substantial rainfall that is essential for millions of farmers and food security in a region home to approximately two billion people.
• However, the monsoon's unpredictable nature often leads to catastrophic events.
• Challenges in Forecasting the Monsoon: Despite extensive research, predicting the monsoon remains a complex challenge. The variability in rainfall timing and distribution complicates forecasting efforts.
  • For instance, while Pakistan has experienced severe flooding this season, parts of eastern and northeastern India reported the lowest July rainfall in 122 years.
• Factors responsible for altering rainfall pattern:
  • Factors influencing monsoon behavior include global atmospheric and oceanic conditions, such as the El Niño effect and the Equatorial Indian Ocean Oscillation (EQUINOO).
  • Local influences, like aerosol pollution and dust clouds from the Sahara, also play a role in altering rainfall patterns.
  • Climate change is increasingly affecting the South Asian monsoon. The region has experienced rising temperatures and more frequent cyclones, yet the precise impact of climate change on the monsoon is still unclear.

Under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 (SBM Urban 2.0), several cities across India are transforming cleared legacy landfill sites into valuable community spaces.

Current state

• Launched in 2021, the mission aims to remediate all legacy landfills in the country by 2025-2026.
• With 2,421 legacy landfills identified, significant progress has already been made: 474 sites have been remediated, reclaiming approximately 2,617.38 acres of land.
• Cities that have successfully cleared these sites are now creatively repurposing the land, paving the way for new parks, transportation hubs, and other community facilities.
• Noteworthy examples of how different cities are utilizing reclaimed land:
  • Ahmedabad: In Ahmedabad, 4.3 acres of land previously occupied by 230,000 tonnes of waste at the Bopal Ghuma dumpsite have been successfully remediated.
    • The project cost Rs. 4.17 crore, and an additional Rs. 8 crore has been allocated for the redevelopment of this area into an ecological park.
    • The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation now maintains this green space. Work is ongoing at the larger Pirana landfill, which spans 84 acres, with 54% of the land already cleared.
  • Nagpur:  Nagpur has also made significant strides, completely clearing its 35-acre legacy landfill, which held 1 million metric tonnes of waste.
    • The cleared site will serve as an integrated waste management project.
    • The bioremediation process not only removed the waste but also generated refuse-derived fuel and manure, which are being sold, contributing to the city’s sustainability efforts.
  • Pune:  In Pune, the Vanaz landfill has been repurposed as a depot for the city's Metro Rail project. Approximately 3.7 million tonnes of waste have been remediated, clearing 75 acres of land.  The site, now known as the Hill View Park Car Depot, is integral to the Pune Metro initiative.
  • Lucknow:  Lucknow’s Ghaila landfill, which spanned 72 acres and contained 800,000 tonnes of waste, has also been transformed.
    • The site is being developed into the Rashtriya Prerna Sthal park, featuring statues of notable leaders such as former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Syama Prasad Mookerjee.
    • In addition to the statues, the park will include facilities like a 3,000-capacity open-air theatre and exhibition spaces, enhancing community engagement and recreation.

India's core sector output experienced a significant contraction of 1.8 percent in August 2024, marking the first decline in nearly four years. This follows a robust growth of 6.1 percent in July and a remarkable 13.4 percent expansion in August 2023. The slowdown is largely attributed to the high base effect from the previous year's performance.

Key-highlights:

• In August, steel output slowed to 4.5 percent against 10.9 percent in the same month last year.
• Natural gas production contracted by 3.6 percent during the month under review compared to an expansion of 10 percent in August 2023. 
• India's coal production decreased by 8.1 percent in August, 2024 against an expansion of 17.9 percent in August 2023.
• Crude Oil production dipped by 3.4 per cent in August YoY in the month under review. 
• India’s manufacturing PMI had slumped to a three-month low of 57.5 in August compared with 58.1 in the previous month, as demand had softened. 
• The eight core sectors contribute 40.27 percent to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) which measures overall industrial growth.
• Reason: The drop in output is primarily skewed due to last year's elevated growth figures. As a result, the average growth for the first five months of the year has now reduced to 4.6 percent, compared to 8 percent during the same period last year.
• Impact: This contraction will significantly impact industrial production, particularly as manufacturing activity has also seen a decline.

India’s current account deficit (CAD) has slightly increased to 1.1% of GDP, amounting to $9.8 billion in the first quarter (Q1) of FY25, up from $8.9 billion (1% of GDP) in the same period last year. This rise is primarily due to an increase in the merchandise trade deficit.

Key-highlights:

• CAD occurs when a country's imports of goods and services exceed its exports. In Q1 FY25, India recorded a merchandise trade deficit of USD 65.1 billion, compared to USD 56.7 billion in the same quarter last year.
• The country had a surplus of USD 4.6 billion (0.5% of GDP) in the previous quarter (Q4 FY24).
• Factors Influencing the CAD
  • Net Service Receipts: Increased to $39.7 billion in Q1 FY25 from USD 35.1 billion a year ago, boosted by growth in service exports like computer, business, travel, and transportation services.
  • Private Transfers: Remittances from Indians working abroad rose to USD 29.5 billion from USD 27.1 billion in the same quarter last year.
  • Primary Income Outgo: Payments for investment income went up to USD 10.7 billion from $10.2 billion.
• Foreign Investments
  • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Net inflows increased to USD 6.3 billion from USD 4.7 billion a year ago.
  • Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI): Moderated significantly to USD 3.9 billion from $15.7 billion.
• Other Financial Indicators
  • External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs): Net inflows fell to USD 1.8 billion from USD 5.6 billion a year ago.
  • Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Deposits: Increased to USD 4 billion, up from USD 2.2 billion.
• Foreign Exchange Reserves: India’s foreign exchange reserves grew by USD 5.2 billion in Q1 FY25, compared to a larger increase of USD 24.4 billion in the same quarter last year.

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train corridor aims to bring the efficiency and speed of Japan’s Shinkansen network to India. However, the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) highlights unique environmental challenges that India must address, particularly extreme weather conditions in Gujarat and Maharashtra, including temperatures soaring to 50 degrees Celsius and high levels of dust and humidity.

About Shinkansen Bullet Train Technology

• Shinkansen (lit. new trunk line) is Japan’s high-speed rail. It was opened for service between Tokyo and Osaka in 1964.
• The high-speed train service is known for its cleanliness, punctuality, and safety. Shinkansen has record of zero fatal passenger accidents.
• Key-features:
  • Speed: up to 320 km/h (200 mph)
  • They feature highly advanced technologies such as aerodynamic design and air suspension.
  • They are electric multiple-unit trains that derive their power from an overhead wire system.
• Japan has successfully exportedits “high quality” rail infrastructure to Taiwan, India, Europe and the UK in the past.
• Concern: Japan’s Shinkansen operates in a mild climate, while India’s harsher conditions pose significant risks for high-speed rail (HSR) technology.
  • Taiwan is the only other nation to successfully implement Shinkansen technology, benefiting from similar weather patterns.
  • This raises the question of whether India can adapt this advanced technology to its unique environment.

Earth has got a rare second moon. The 2024 PT5 asteroid, which zipped past Earth recently, is set to orbit the planet for nearly two months. 

What is Earth’s mini-moon?

• The term ‘mini-moon’ refers to asteroid 2024 PT5, which was first detected by Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS).
  • ATLAS is an automated system funded by NASA. ATLAS is designed to monitor near-Earth asteroids that could pose a threat or offer scientific insights.
  • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is also involved in monitoring this mini moon through its Network for Space Objects Tracking and Analysis (NETRA).
• In general, asteroids that fail to escape Earth’s gravity, momentarily alter their trajectory and end up orbiting the planet for a time. These asteroids are referred to as mini-moons.
• These small, fast-moving asteroids are difficult to detect and identify.
• The 2024 PT5 asteroid, though small has a diameter of about 10 metres (33 feet).
• During its 53-day orbit around Earth, the aestroid will not complete a full revolution but instead perform a horseshoe loop before drifting away from Earth’s gravitational influence.
• The ‘mini-moon’ belongs to a group of asteroids named after the warrior,

Karnataka has rejected the sixth draft notification of the Kasturirangan report that proposes the demarcation of eco-sensitive areas (ESA) in the ecologically fragile Western Ghats. The sixth draft notification issued by the Centre sought to declare over 56,800 sq km of the Western Ghats spread across six states of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat, as ESA.

Key-points made by the state government

• Impact on Local Communities: The proposed ESAs would negatively impact the livelihoods of people residing in 1,499 villages across 33 taluks. There is a strong belief that the designation could restrict access to land and resources critical for these communities.
• The Karnataka government has already notified and protected 16,632 sq km of forest land in the form of sanctuaries, national parks, and eco-sensitive zones. The remaining area has about 1,533 homes, villages, and other human dwelling units and we need to protect the rights and livelihood of people living here.
• The state has formally requested that the MoEF&CC withdraw the notification to avoid exacerbating tensions and hardships for local populations.

What is Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ)?

• Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) are areas designated around protected wildlife sanctuaries and national parks to create a buffer that reduces human impact on these sensitive ecosystems.
• They aim to conserve biodiversity and provide a sustainable habitat for flora and fauna.
• They are notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change around Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
  • Protected areas cover 5.26% of India’s land area as 108 national parks and 564 wildlife sanctuaries. They are notified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
• Purpose: The establishment of ESZs is intended to protect the environment while allowing for regulated human activities, balancing ecological conservation with development.
• ESZ Guidelines classify activities under three categories:
  • Prohibited: Commercial Mining, Setting of Saw Mills, Setting of industries causing pollution, the establishment of major hydroelectric projects etc.
  • Regulated:Felling of Trees, Establishment of hotels and resorts, erection of electrical cables, drastic change of agricultural systems etc.
  • Permitted:Ongoing agriculture and horticulture practices by local communities, rainwater harvesting, organic farming etc.

India is facing a significant demographic shift with a rising elderly population, projected to double by 2050. This trend poses challenges in healthcare, social inclusion, and economic security, necessitating comprehensive reforms and innovative strategies to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens.

Healthcare Reform

• Rising Healthcare Consumption: The healthcare consumption among the elderly in India is currently estimated at USD 7 billion, with a substantial portion suffering from chronic ailments and mental health issues. Addressing these needs is critical for improving overall well-being.
• Multi-Sectoral Approach: Effective senior care reform must integrate health, social, economic, and digital sectors, ensuring a holistic approach to empower elderly individuals. Initiatives like the Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) aim to provide comprehensive health services through traditional systems.
• Infrastructure Enhancement: Strengthening healthcare infrastructure by expanding tele-consultation and enhancing workforce skills will facilitate better access to care for senior citizens. This comprehensive package includes mental health and nutrition services to address diverse needs.

Financial Security and Inclusion

• Addressing Financial Insecurities: Financial burdens on the elderly can be mitigated through innovative investment schemes and insurance products tailored for their needs. Proposals for coverage, such as Rs 5 lakh for individuals over 70, aim to alleviate healthcare cost pressures.
• Community Sensitization: Enhancing social inclusion involves educating the community about elderly needs and establishing peer support groups. Such initiatives can foster interaction and raise awareness about legal rights and entitlements.
• Digital Adaptation: Improving digital literacy among the elderly is essential for accessing government schemes and services. Targeted efforts are needed to encourage both current and younger aging populations to engage with digital platforms effectively.

Economic Opportunities

• Emerging Silver Economy: The "silver economy," focused on goods and services for the elderly, is projected to grow significantly, with an estimated worth of Rs 73,082 crore. This sector is set to expand as the elderly population becomes a major consumer group.
• Health and Wellness Market Potential: Healthcare consumption accounts for about one-third of the elderly's total expenditure, creating opportunities for health and wellness-driven businesses. Innovations in health technology and utility infrastructure can cater to the unique needs of this demographic.
• Government Initiatives: To capitalize on this emerging opportunity, the government has launched initiatives like the Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity (SACRED) portal and the Senior care Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE) to connect seniors with job opportunities and promote senior care products.

Practice Question

Q. Critically assess the challenges and opportunities presented by India's aging population. What reforms and initiatives are necessary to improve the quality of life for the elderly while harnessing the potential of the silver economy?

In July 2024, the Indian government announced plans to expand its nuclear energy sector, proposing partnerships with the private sector for the development of Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) and Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR) to meet its COP26 commitment of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030. This renewed focus on nuclear energy comes amidst existing legal frameworks and challenges that govern private sector participation.

Regulatory Framework Challenges

• Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (AEA): The AEA, primarily governing nuclear energy, restricts private sector involvement in nuclear power licensing, granting sole control to the central government. Recent Supreme Court dismissals of petitions challenging these restrictions underscore the challenges of engaging private entities in this sector.
• Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA): The constitutionality of the CLNDA, which outlines compensation for nuclear incidents, remains in judicial limbo, complicating private investment potential. The act has faced scrutiny for allegedly violating principles of absolute liability and polluter pays, adding uncertainty to the nuclear landscape.
• Need for Legislative Reforms: For private sector engagement, significant reforms in the AEA and CLNDA are essential. A conducive regulatory framework must balance safety concerns with the need for private investment to support the ambitious growth of India's nuclear energy capacity.

Private Sector Participation

• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): A viable model could involve PPPs where government bodies like the NPCIL hold a majority stake in nuclear projects. This structure would invite private investment while maintaining governmental accountability and compliance with the AEA.
• Involvement of Private Firms: Historically, private firms have participated mainly in engineering and construction but have been barred from R&D activities due to strict regulations. Allowing private sector participation in R&D is crucial for technological advancement and innovation in nuclear energy.
• Investment Potential: The government aims to attract around USD 26 billion in private investments for nuclear energy. Achieving this goal hinges on creating a robust framework that encourages private participation while ensuring stringent safety measures.

Safety and Accountability Issues

• Historical Context of Nuclear Accidents: Historical nuclear accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima highlight the inherent risks associated with nuclear technology, emphasizing the need for comprehensive safety regulations. The stringent regulatory oversight is necessary to mitigate public fears regarding nuclear safety.
• Role of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB): Concerns persist regarding the independence and authority of the AERB, which oversees radiation protection. Legislative reforms, such as the stalled Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority Bill, are necessary to enhance regulatory independence and public confidence.
• Public Accountability Measures: A structure where government holds majority stakes in nuclear projects ensures accountability under the Right to Information Act (RTI). This transparency is vital for maintaining public trust in nuclear energy initiatives and their safety protocols.

Practice Question

Q. Critically analyze the implications of the current regulatory framework governing India’s nuclear energy sector for private sector participation, considering recent legislative announcements and judicial challenges. What reforms would you suggest to enhance investment and ensure safety?

Delhi’s air quality faces new challenges this winter due to the delayed onset of La Niña and the late retreat of the monsoon. These climatic conditions could exacerbate pollution levels, particularly with potential stubble burning contributing to the problem. Recent research highlights the interplay of climate change, La Niña, and air quality, emphasizing the need for a shift in policy focus.

Impact of Climatic Conditions

• Delayed Monsoon Retreat: The prolonged presence of high humidity and calm winds following the late retreat of the monsoon can lead to reduced atmospheric mixing. This stagnation is likely to trap pollutants, raising levels of 5 and PM10 in the air.
• Uncertain La Niña Development: La Niña typically enhances wind strength and atmospheric circulation, which can disperse pollutants. However, its late arrival, anticipated between September and November 2024, means that neutral conditions may worsen pollution in northern India during early winter.
• Stubble Burning Influence: The prevalence of north-north-westerly winds increases the impact of stubble burning from Punjab and Haryana on Delhi’s air quality. Without La Niña conditions, the pollution from these practices could significantly degrade air quality in the capital.

Potential Future Scenarios

• Late Onset Effects: Should La Niña develop in December, it might improve air quality due to stronger winds and reduced pollutant accumulation. However, it could also lead to a longer, more severe winter, trapping pollutants and limiting dispersion.
• Comparison with Early Onset: Had La Niña settled in by July, predictions suggest a 20% increase in winter PM2.5 pollution in peninsular India, while an earlier onset could have benefited northern regions, improving air quality.
• Persistent Challenges Ahead: Even with potential improvements later in the winter, ongoing issues related to air quality will remain problematic for Delhi and northern India. The interplay of climatic factors necessitates continued vigilance and adaptive strategies.

Need for Comprehensive Policy Shift

• Holistic Approach to Air Quality: Researchers advocate moving beyond localized emission-centric strategies to incorporate broader meteorological and climatological factors. Understanding larger airsheds and their influences on air quality is crucial.
• Integration of Scientific Insights: There is a call for integrating scientific research into policymaking to address the multifaceted issues of air pollution, considering both local and regional sources of emissions. Health-centric measures should be prioritized.
• Mitigation in the Context of Climate Change: As climate change increasingly influences air pollution patterns, there is a pressing need for rigorous mitigation strategies that encompass both anthropogenic emissions and broader climatic uncertainties.

Practice Question

Q. Discuss the implications of climate change on air quality in India, particularly in the context of La Niña and its effects on winter pollution levels. What policy measures should be adopted to mitigate air pollution in urban areas like Delhi?