GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the 16th Brics Summit in Kazan.  In their bilateral meeting, the Prime Minister expressed India's willingness to provide all cooperation for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict.

Key-takeaways of the Bilateral Meeting

• The two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including political, economic, defence, energy, and people-to-people ties. This was their second meeting this year as the two leaders had earlier met in Moscow for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in July 2024.
• PM Modi and Putin exchanged views on India-Russia engagement in multilateral fora, in particular in
• They also shared views on key regional and global issues of mutual interest, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
• PM Modi reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy was the way forward in resolving conflicts.

What is the history of India-Russia Relations? 

• Diplomatic Relations: India and Russia (then the Soviet Union) established diplomatic relations in April 1947, shortly before India's independence.
• Cold War Era: The Soviet Union became a crucial ally for India during the Cold War, particularly during conflicts like the 1971 war with Pakistan. The Indo-Soviet Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation was signed in the same year.
• Supportive Role: The USSR mediated during the 1965 India-Pakistan war and consistently used its veto in the UN Security Council to support India on issues like Kashmir.
• Post-Cold War Relations: After the Cold War, the relationship continued with annual summits and strategic partnership agreements established in 2000 and upgraded in 2010.
• India and Russia have also been holding so-called 2+2 meetings – joint meetings with foreign and defence ministers – since 2021.

What is the current relationship between India and Russia? 

• Russia remains a key strategic partner for India for both practical and ideological reasons.
• Economic Cooperation: India benefits significantly from access to discounted Russian crude oil, which has increased from less than 2 per cent of India’s total imports before the Russian invasion of Ukraine to over 40 per cent in June 2024.
• Indian companies have also benefitted from exporting refined Russian oil products, some of which have found their way onto Western markets.
• India and Russia aim to increase bilateral trade from $68 billion to $100 billion by the end of this decade.
• Connectivity initiatives include the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor.
• Military Cooperation: Russia accounts for over 50% of India's military hardware. Key acquisitions include the S400 missile system and joint projects like the BrahMos missile.
• Managed Decline: While Russia remains a key partner, India's dependence on Russian arms has decreased from 76% in 2009-2013 to 36% in 2019-2023, driven by a push for diversification and domestic production.
• Nuclear Collaboration: India and Russia have historical ties in nuclear cooperation, including an agreement to build six nuclear power plants in Tamil Nadu.
• Pragmatic Approach: India maintains a neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict, abstaining from UN votes condemning Russia, while also expressing concern over the war's humanitarian impacts. 

What is India’s stand on Russia-Ukraine war?

• Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in a conflict since 2022. Since the start of the war in 2022, India has called for resolving the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
• India has neither condoned nor condemned Russia’s actions. The Indian government has been vocal in expressing its displeasure of the war and Modi has said that now is ‘not an era of war’.
• India is suggesting that alternative approaches be explored to find a peaceful path to end the conflict. 

Related PYQ

Q: Arms trade, economic ties and congruent geo-political interests are no longer the three pillars of India – Russia relationship in the emerging strategic context. Comment (PSIR Optional, 2023)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and everyday life, but this technological revolution comes with a significant hidden cost: a massive demand for electricity. This surge in energy demand is largely driven by hyperscale data centers operated by major tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, which require substantial power for their operations.

What is happening?

• Technology giants are turning to nuclear energy to power the energy-intensive data centers needed to train and run the massive artificial intelligence models behind today’s generative AI applications.
• Microsoftand Google are among the firms agreeing deals to purchase nuclear power from certain suppliers in the U.S. to bring additional energy capacity online for its data centers.
• The Role of Data Centers
  • Data centers are facilities that house computer systems and related components. They are essential for storing, processing, and managing vast amounts of data, particularly for AI applications.
  • These centers operate around the clock, generating heat that necessitates extensive cooling systems—akin to running a room full of ovens that need constant airflow and temperature control.

Energy Consumption

• Currently, data centers account for 60-70% of the total energy used by the tech industry.
• With the anticipated tripling of energy demand for these facilities by 2030, tech companies are facing a dual challenge: meeting energy needs while committing to sustainability and reducing emissions.

Why there is a shift to Nuclear Energy?

Tech companies are under pressure to find energy sources to power data centers — a key piece of infrastructure behind modern-day cloud computing and AI applications. To address their growing energy demands and environmental responsibilities, tech giants are increasingly turning to nuclear power:

• Reliability: Nuclear power provides a consistent energy supply. Unlike renewable sources like solar and wind, which depend on weather conditions, nuclear reactors can operate continuously with high efficiency.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Over time, nuclear power can be more economical than relying solely on renewable energy, especially when factoring in the costs of energy storage systems like batteries.
• Industry Examples

• Microsoft is collaborating with partners to revitalize existing nuclear facilities to ensure a stable power supply for its data centers.
• Google is exploring partnerships to develop small modular reactors (SMRs), which are smaller and easier to build than traditional reactors.
• Amazon has committed $500 million to establish nuclear-powered data centers.

• Global Trends: The interest in nuclear power is not confined to the U.S.
  • India, for example, is planning to triple its nuclear capacity to 22,480 MW by 2032, aiming for 25% of its electricity from nuclear sources by 2050. Major investments are being made in nuclear projects, and collaborations are forming to develop new technologies.
  • Global electricity consumption from data centers, artificial intelligence and the cryptocurrency sector is expected to double from an estimated 460 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2022 to more than 1,000 TWh in 2026 (International Energy Agency).

Challenges Ahead

• Regulatory Hurdles: Given the complex legal and safety regulations, there is need to navigate regulations before new projects can commence.
• Public Perception: Nuclear energy still faces skepticism from the public, stemming from past accidents and fears of safety risks.
• Environmental Risk: Nuclear energy isn’t without its controversy. Many climate activists oppose such supplies, citing their hazardous environmental and safety risk
• Investment Allocation: There’s a concern that focusing on nuclear might divert funds from developing renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

In a rare move of cooperation, India and Pakistan have agreed to extend the visa-free Kartarpur Corridor for another five years.

About Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur

• Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, often called just Kartarpur Sahib, is one of the holiest shrines for Sikhs.
• That is because Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev (the founder of Sikhism) preached there during the last eighteen years of his life.
• In Kartarpur Sahib, Guru Nanak passed away in 1539.
• After Partition of India in 1947, Kartarpur Sahib fell on the Pakistan side of the International Border. It is located in Shakargarh Tehsil, Narowal District, in Pakistan's Punjab Province.
• With India being the home for more than 95 per cent of all Sikhs globally, pilgrims from all over India always demanded access to go to Kartarpur Sahib.
• The Kartarpur Corridor was opened in 2019.
• The Corridor facilitates Indian Sikhs' access to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan.
• The corridor allows pilgrims to make the journey without a visa, crossing from India to Pakistan in a symbolic act of religious freedom and cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Russia has drawn attention due to significant discussions on regional connectivity, particularly in his meeting with Iran’s newly elected President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian. The leaders emphasized the strategic importance of the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

About Chabahar Port

• Chabahar, the deep water port is located on the Makran Coast of Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province.
• It is next to the Gulf of Oman and at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz, which is a vital shipping route linking the Middle East to markets in Asia, Europe, and North America.
• Moreover, Chabahar is the only Iranian port with direct access to the Indian Ocean.
• In India's context, the port is closer to Gujarat on the west coast. Even from Mumbai, it is just 768 nautical miles away.
• Moreover, Pakistan's Gwadar port, in which China has invested heavily, is just 170 km east of Chabahar.
  • The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor originates from the Gwadar port.
• From Chabahar port, a road network goes up to Zaranj in Afghanistan. From there, the 218-km Zaranj-Delaram road, constructed with India's assistance, will give access to four major cities - Herat, Kandahar, Kabul and Mazar-e-Sharif.
• Significance:
  • The port, once fully operational, will also give India direct access to resource-rich Central Asian countries like Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.
  • The Chabahar port allows India to cut the time to send goods to Central Asian nations by a third.
  • Besides, it will also connect the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) that joins India and Russia via Iran. 

India launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) at the Ship Building Center (SBC) in Visakhapatnam, enhancing its nuclear deterrence capabilities. This launch follows the commissioning of the second SSBN, INS Arighat in August 2024. The third SSBN, INS Aridhaman, is slated for commissioning next year.

About

• S4* (codename) is the fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN)
  • Naming: India’s first leased nuclear attack submarine INS Chakra was named as S1, INS Arihant was named S2, INS Arighaat S3, INS Aridhaman S4 and hence the newly launched one is the last of its class, S4* with the formal name yet to be given.
• The newly launched S4* submarine boasts nearly 75 per cent indigenous content and is equipped with K-4 ballistic missiles, which have a range of 3,500 km and are fired through vertical launching systems.
• While the first SSBN, INS Arihant, carries K-15 nuclear missiles with a range of 750 km, the successors, including S4*, are equipped exclusively with K-4 missiles.
• These submarines have virtually unlimited range and endurance, with operational limits being defined only by food supplies, crew fatigue, and maintenance needs.

In 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new medication called Cobenfy for the treatment of schizophrenia. This approval is significant as it introduces a novel approach to managing this serious mental health disorder, which affects about 1 in 100 people globally.

What is Cobenfy?

• Cobenfy is a combination of two drugs: xanomeline and trospium chloride.
• It works differently from traditional antipsychotic medications, which primarily target dopamine receptors in the brain.
• Instead, Cobenfy targets cholinergic receptors, which are part of the parasympathetic nervous system.
• This unique mechanism may help alleviate symptoms without the severe side effects often associated with older antipsychotic drugs.
• The Role of Neurotransmitters
  • Traditionally, the dopamine hypothesis has been used to explain schizophrenia, suggesting that overactivity of dopamine in the brain leads to symptoms. However, newer research points to a more complex interplay involving other neurotransmitters, such as glutamate.
  • Xanomeline and Trospium
    • Xanomeline: This compound stimulates cholinergic receptors and has shown potential in improving various symptoms of schizophrenia. However, it previously faced setbacks due to side effects.
    • Trospium Chloride: This medication acts as an antimuscarinic agent, potentially reducing the side effects associated with xanomeline.
  • Side Effects and Cost: Cobenfy has its own side effects, which may include: Nausea, Indigestion, Hypertension, Increased heart rate, Dizziness
  • The monthly cost of Cobenfy is approximately USD 1,850, making it an expensive option for many patients.

In 2023, two enthusiasts discovered a previously undescribed species of jumping spider in the forests of Devarayanadurga, Tumakuru district, Karnataka. Their find is confirmed as a new genus named Tenkana Jayamangali.

Key Facts about Tenkana Jayamangali

• The species is found in the forests of Devarayanadurga, Karnataka, specifically at the origin of the Jayamangali River.
• Genus: Tenkana, named to honor species found in the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, with "Tenkana" meaning "south" in Kannada.
• Species Characteristics:
  • Male Appearance: Resembles the face of a panda with a brownish abdomen.
  • Female Appearance: Grey with distinct patterns.
• Habitat:
  • Ground-dwelling, often found in complex microhabitats with shaded short grasses and dry leaf litter.
  • Also located in simpler habitats with sparse short grasses near rocky outcrops.
• Endemism: Currently believed to be endemic to India, with sightings reported in areas like Bannerghatta (Bengaluru) and Yercaudu (Tamil Nadu).
• Related Species: Three documented species under the genus Tenkana:
  • Tenkana jayamangali (the newly described species)
  • Tenkana arkavathi (discovered in 2022, Nandi Hills)
  • Tenkana manu (present in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Sri Lanka).

China confirmed an agreement to resolve its four-year military standoff with India. This development follows a series of tensions that began in April 2020 when China transgressed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), culminating in violent clashes.

Historical Background

• Military Standoff: Since April 2020, tensions escalated after China’s military incursions, leading to India’s counter-deployment along the LAC. The situation intensified following the June 2020 Galwan clashes, resulting in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers.
• Diplomatic Stalemate: Despite attempts to disengage at five friction points, mistrust persisted regarding China’s intentions to revert to pre-2020 troop positions. Diplomatic engagement was severely limited since the clashes, affecting overall bilateral relations.
• Trade Dynamics: While trade relations have remained strong, other areas such as investment, travel, and visa arrangements saw significant setbacks. This decoupling in various sectors highlights the broader implications of the military standoff.

Current Developments

• Agreement on Troop Withdrawal: China has agreed to restore troops to pre-2020 levels. Verification of this claim is crucial, as it could signify a positive shift in bilateral relations if implemented.
• Upcoming BRICS Summit: The agreement on “patrolling arrangements” was announced just before the BRICS Summit in Russia, providing a platform for possible high-level interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping for the first time since 2020.
• Transparency and Trust: The Indian government must ensure transparent communication regarding the “next steps” to foster trust. There are concerns about Chinese troop presence, with perceptions that they occupy more Indian territory than before.

Future Considerations

• Parliamentary Briefings: The government’s refusal to fully brief Parliament or allow media access has fueled skepticism about the situation. Clear demonstrations of troop withdrawals are necessary to validate claims of progress.
• Cautious Approach: It is essential to avoid premature declarations of success similar to those following the 2017 Doklam disengagement, which saw a subsequent increase in Chinese military presence. A cautious and measured response is advised.
• Framework for Peace: Both nations need to evaluate the relevance of the 1993 Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement and the 2013 Border Defence Cooperation Agreement. Discussions may be necessary to establish a new framework for managing border differences moving forward.

Practice Question

Q. Discuss the implications of the recent agreement between India and China to resolve their military standoff. Analyze the historical context, current developments, and future considerations for bilateral relations.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to India is noteworthy amidst a flurry of global summits. While often overshadowed by other international engagements, this visit is significant for enhancing the bilateral strategic partnership between India and Germany, particularly in light of evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Historical and Strategic Background

• Historical Ties: India and Germany share a longstanding relationship dating back to before India's Independence, formalized through a strategic partnership established in 2000. However, translating this partnership into tangible outcomes has been challenging.
• Current Geopolitical Climate: Scholz's visit occurs against a backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, including Russian expansionism and Chinese assertiveness. These dynamics compel Germany to reconsider its traditional stance and seek deeper ties with India.
• Shifting European Perspectives: Europe's view of India has evolved, with increasing recognition of its importance as a stable democracy and a central player in international politics, particularly among Global South countries. Scholz’s visit signifies a growing alignment of interests.

Key Elements of the Visit

• Recognition of India's Role: Germany acknowledges India as a crucial actor in the international arena and seeks to leverage India's expertise in various domains, recognizing its growing significance amidst global challenges.
• Economic Diversification: Berlin aims to deepen economic ties with India, moving away from its previous "China First" policy. This shift reflects a strategic decision to diversify economic relationships, with India positioned as a top partner.
• Defence Cooperation: Scholz's visit emphasizes security collaboration, including defense diplomacy and potential arms cooperation. Germany's commitment to support India's defense manufacturing aligns with India's broader strategic goals.

Future Implications

• Potential for Stronger Bilateral Relations: The outcomes of this visit, particularly in defense and economic cooperation, could significantly enhance the geopolitical stature of the Indo-German relationship, providing India with a counterbalance to its engagements with the US and China.
• Historical Context of Partnerships: Historically, India has sought alliances based on strategic needs. The renewed focus on Germany as a partner could offer India a stabilizing force in its great power relations, particularly amid the challenges posed by China and the shifting global order.
• Broader European Engagement: Germany's pivot towards India underscores the potential for broader European integration into India's foreign policy framework. Strengthening ties with Germany, alongside existing partnerships with France, can enhance India's global standing.

Practice Question

Q. Examine the implications of the evolving geopolitical dynamics for India’s strategic partnerships with European nations, particularly Germany, and how these relationships can influence India’s position in a changing global order.

India is facing a significant challenge in creating quality jobs, which provide dignity, adequate compensation, and opportunities for advancement. Despite a low reported unemployment rate, the reality is that many jobs are informal and lack stability, particularly affecting the youth.

The Nature of Job Quality

• Definition of Good Quality Jobs: A good quality job is characterized by dignity, sufficient pay, opportunities for learning, and career advancement. However, many jobs in India are unpaid, informal, or lead to dead ends, failing to meet these criteria.
• Impact of Informal Employment: The prevalence of informal employment skews the understanding of unemployment, as individuals may only need to report working for one month in a year to be considered employed. This misrepresentation masks the underlying job quality crisis.
• Youth Unemployment Crisis: The lack of quality jobs, especially for young people, poses a threat to economic stability and the legitimacy of the state. If avenues for participation are not created, frustration among the youth will likely escalate.

Political Implications

• Dignity and Purpose: The political challenge lies in providing citizens with dignity, purpose, and financial support. Traditional community and political engagement sources have been overshadowed by liberalism and capitalism, making work the primary means for social status.
• Disparities in Job Opportunities: The elite benefit from societal control, while large segments of the population face a lack of dignity and financial security. This growing disparity, exacerbated by technological advancements, could lead to political instability.
• Inadequate Political Response: Current political responses oscillate between market reliance and short-term partisanship. A superficial approach, like the concept of 'creative destruction,' overlooks the deeper issues of job loss and social inequality.

Future Directions and Reforms

• Critique of Universal Basic Income (UBI): Proposals for UBI may perpetuate inequality and diminish human dignity by implying that many people are no longer needed in the economy. This approach fails to engage individuals in meaningful work and risks fostering resentment.
• Structural Reforms Needed: Political parties must prioritize addressing structural issues like unemployment and inequality rather than merely focusing on electoral gains. A robust social contract is essential for restoring faith in democracy.
• Call for Meaningful Leadership: Political leaders must tackle these challenges head-on and avoid deflecting responsibility. The future of Indian democracy hinges on fostering a sense of public purpose and ensuring economic participation for all citizens.

Practice Question

Q. What are the challenges of job quality and unemployment in India, focusing on their political implications and the necessary reforms for enhancing social dignity and economic participation?