Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

For Prelims: Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), Ujjwala 2.0

For Mains: Challenges faced by the PMUY in achieving its objectives, "Government Policies & Interventions.

Source: TH

Why in News?

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) , aimed at providing LPG gas cylinders to rural and deprived households, has faced challenges in ensuring consistent usage among beneficiaries.

• Out of 9.58 crore Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana households, 1.18 crore bought no refills in 2022-23, and another 1.51 crore bought one refill.
• Low refill rates raise concerns about the scheme's ability to ensure sustained usage among beneficiaries.

What are the Concerns Regarding the PMUY?

• Limited Refill Consumption:
  • Data reveals that the average PMUY beneficiary refilled fewer than four LPG cylinders during 2022-23.
  • One in four PMUY beneficiaries did not use any LPG cylinders or took just one refill in 2022-2023.
    • In contrast, non-PMUY households consumed significantly more cylinder refills, whose per household consumption of LPG cylinders was 6.67 refills highlighting a disparity in consumption patterns.
• Rising LPG Cylinder Prices:
  • Steep price increases in LPG cylinders, even with subsidies, have made them less affordable for rural and deprived households.
    • High prices may discourage beneficiaries from using LPG for cooking, defeating the scheme's purpose.
• Subsidy Expenditure:
  • Between January 2018 and March 2023, rates for subsidised LPG cylinders increased by 82%, reaching ₹903 in March 2023 from ₹495.64 in January 2018.
    • Subsidy amounts depend on the difference between the Retail Selling Price (RSP) and the subsidised cost set by the government.
  • Non-subsidised LPG cylinders saw a 49% price increase, reaching ₹1,103 in March 2023.
• International Factors Impacting LPG Prices:
  • Various factors, including import charges, bottling charges, freight, delivery charges, GST, and distributor commission, contribute to the final LPG price.

What is Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)?

• About:
  • The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MOPNG), introduced the ‘Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana’ (PMUY) as a flagship scheme with the objective of making clean cooking fuel such as LPG available to the rural and deprived households which were otherwise using traditional cooking fuels such as firewood, coal, cow-dung cakes etc.
    • Usage of traditional cooking fuels had detrimental impacts on the health of rural women as well as on the environment.
• Objectives:
  • Empowering women and protecting their health.
  • Reducing the number of deaths in India due to unclean cooking fuel.
  • Preventing young children from a significant number of acute respiratory illnesses caused due to indoor air pollution by burning fossil fuel.
• Features:
  • The scheme provides a financial support of Rs 1600 for each LPG connection to the BPL households.
  • Along with a deposit-free LPG connection, Ujjwala 2.0 will provide the first refill and a hotplate free of cost to the beneficiaries.
• Benefits of PMUY:
  • The eligible beneficiaries receive a free LPG connection.
  • The beneficiaries also receive a subsidy on the first six refills of 14.2 kg cylinders or eight refills of 5 kg cylinders.
  • The beneficiaries can opt for an EMI facility to pay for the cost of the stove and the first refill.
  • The beneficiaries can also join the PAHAL scheme to receive the subsidy amount directly in their bank accounts.
• Phases of PMUY:
  • Phase I :
    • The scheme was launched on May 1, 2016.
    • The target under the scheme was to release 8 Crore LPG Connections to the deprived households by March 2020.
    • The release of 8 Crore LPG connections under the scheme has also helped in increasing the LPG coverage from 62% on 1st May 2016 to 99.8% as on 1st April 2021.
  • Ujjwala 2.0:
    • In the Union budget for FY 21-22, provision for the release of additional 1 crore LPG connections to the eligible households by March 31, 2022.
      • The target of releasing additional 1 crore LPG connections under Ujjwala 2.0 was achieved in January 2022.Subsequently, it was decided to release additional 60 lakh LPG connections under Ujjwala 2.0. OMCs have achieved the target of releasing 1.6 Crore LPG Connections under Ujjwala 2.0 on 31st December 2022.

Formula To Calculate the LPG Price:

• The price of LPG is calculated based on the formula known as import parity price (IPP).
• Basically, the calculations as per the IPP are dependent on the international market.
• The IPP calculation is done through Saudi Aramco’s LPG price, which is the world’s largest producer.
  • The price involves costs like free on board (FOB) price, ocean freight, customs duties, port charges and insurance costs, among other things.
• The price fluctuation of crude oil also affects the international price of LPG.
  • The inland prices include freight costs, oil company's margins, bottling costs, marketing expenses, dealer commissions and the Goods and services Tax(GST).
• The final price thus calculated gives the retail selling price for non-subsidised cooking gas cylinders for consumers across different states.
• India uses the IPP as most of its consumption is through imports.The formula of LPG cylinders is revised on a monthly basis.
  • LPG is an important requirement with three major PSU suppliers like Indian oil, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), charging mostly similar prices with different cost structures and operational efficiencies.

Way Forward

• The government should intensify efforts to educate beneficiaries about the health and environmental benefits of using LPG.
• Periodic evaluation of subsidy amounts and mechanisms to keep LPG affordable for beneficiaries is needed.
• Conduct regular assessments of the PMUY scheme's effectiveness and adapt policies accordingly to address emerging challenges.

Laïcité: Principle of Secularism in France

For Prelims: Laïcité, Preamble, Fundamental right, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.

For Mains: Comparison between Indian and French Secularism

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, the French government announced a ban on the wearing of the abaya, a traditional Islamic robe, in state-run schools.

• This decision was framed as a measure to uphold the principle of Laïcité, France's commitment to secularism. The move was met with both support and criticism, sparking a broader conversation about the role of Laïcité in modern France.

What is Laïcité?

• About:
  • Laïcité is a complex and politically charged term in France. It signifies a formal separation of the State and Church, emphasising the complete removal of religious values from the public sphere, replaced by secular values such as liberty, equality, and fraternity.
    • Laïcité finds its origins in the struggle of anti-clerical Republicans against the power of the Catholic Church.
• Changing Demographics and Tensions:
  • For the majority of the 20th century, laïcité was generally not considered a significant issue in France due to the country's relative homogeneity.
  • However, during the 1950s and 1960s, significant decolonization efforts in North Africa resulted in a substantial migration of people from predominantly Muslim nations like Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria to France.
    • This demographic shift triggered occasional tensions and challenges related to laïcité.
• Related Controversial Legislation and Interpretations
  • In 2004, France enacted a law prohibiting the wearing of "ostentatious" religious symbols in public spaces, including Catholic dresses, Jewish kippahs, and Muslim headscarves.
  • In 2011, face-covering veils were banned in public places. Each such decision stirred new interpretations of Laïcité.

How does Laïcité Compare with Indian Secularism?

• Historical Origins:
  • Laïcité: Laïcité is a concept rooted in French history and is a cornerstone of the French Republic.
    • It was solidified with the enactment of the 1905 law on the Separation of Church and State.
  • Indian Secularism: Preamble of the Indian Constitution declares India to be a "Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic." This sets the tone for the secular nature of the state.
    • The term ‘Secular’ was added to the preamble by the 42^nd Constitution Amendment Act of 1976.
• Characteristics:
  • Laïcité: Laïcité in France is characterized by strict separation of religious institutions from the state.
    • This includes the prohibition of religious symbols in public schools, government buildings, and the public sphere.
  • Indian Secularism: Indian secularism, as enshrined in the Indian Constitution, is more accommodative of religious diversity.
    • The state is not separated from religion but is expected to treat all religions equally and impartially.
    • The Indian government can provide financial support to religious institutions, and religious symbols are allowed in various public spaces.
• Inspiration that France Can Draw From Indian Secularism
  • Sarva Dharma Sambhava: Indian philosophy of secularism is related to “Sarva Dharma Sambhava” (literally it means that the destination of the paths followed by all religions is the same, though the paths themselves may be different) which means equal respect to all religions.
    • Indian secularism does not exclude religion from the public sphere, but rather accommodates it in a way that does not infringe on the rights of others.
  • Protecting the Rights of Minorities: Indian secularism recognizes the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion as a fundamental right, subject to public order, morality, and health.
    • It also protects the educational and cultural rights of minorities, and allows them to establish and administer their own institutions.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Mains:

Q. How is the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of secularism? Discuss. (2016)

One-Hour Trade Settlement

For Prelims: One-Hour Trade Settlement, Securities and Exchange Board of India, Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA), Instantaneous Trade Settlement.

For Mains: Benefits of One-Hour Trade Settlement.

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced that it is aiming to launch One-Hour Settlement of trades by March 2024 in order to enhance the efficiency of trade settlement processes.

• The SEBI will launch Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA)-like facility for trading in the Secondary Market by January 2024.

What is Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA)?

• ASBA is a mechanism introduced by the SEBI to facilitate the application and allotment process for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), rights issues, and other securities offerings.
• ASBA is designed to make the application process more efficient and investor-friendly by allowing investors to apply for shares without transferring the entire application amount upfront.
• It entails that the amount to be paid for subscribing the shares does not get debited from the investor’s account until the shares have been allotted by the company.

What is the Trade Settlement?

• About:
  • Trade settlement is a critical process in the financial markets that involves the transfer of funds and securities between parties involved in a trade.
  • It ensures that the buyer receives the purchased securities, and the seller receives the agreed-upon funds.
  • In the context of securities trading, this settlement process finalizes the transaction.
• T+1 Settlement Cycle:
  • In January 2023, India adopted the T+1 settlement cycle, where T represents the trade date.
  • This means that trade-related settlements occur within one business day or 24 hours of the actual transaction.
  • India became the second country, after China, to implement the T+1 settlement cycle in top-listed securities.
  • This transition brought several advantages, including increased operational efficiency, faster fund transfers, prompt share delivery, and improved convenience for participants in the stock market.

What is SEBI’s New Plan for Real Time Trade Settlement?

• One-Hour Trade Settlement:
  • Under this scheme, when an investor sells a share, the money from the sale will be credited to their account within one hour, and the buyer will receive the purchased shares in their demat account within the same time frame.
  • This represents a significant reduction in settlement time compared to the existing T+1 cycle.
• Instantaneous Trade Settlement:
  • SEBI acknowledges that achieving instantaneous settlement is a more intricate task, requiring additional technology development.
  • Therefore, they plan to focus on implementing one-hour trade settlement first and then proceed towards instantaneous settlement.
    • The timeframe for launching instantaneous settlement is projected to be by the end of 2024.

What are the Benefits of One-Hour Trade Settlement?

• Faster Transactions:
  • Investors will experience significantly reduced settlement times, enabling quicker access to funds and securities.
• Enhanced Liquidity:
  • Quicker settlement can lead to improved market liquidity as funds become available for reinvestment sooner.
• Risk Reduction:
  • Reducing the settlement time can mitigate counterparty and market risk, enhancing overall market stability.
• Investor Convenience:
  • Investors will appreciate the swifter access to their funds and securities, making the market more user-friendly.

Invasive Alien Species

For Prelims: Invasive Alien Species, Biodiversity, Water hyacinth, Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, Convention on Biological Diversity, Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

For Mains: Factors Responsible for Rising Invasive Species and their Impacts

Source: IE

Why in News?

The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has recently released an "Assessment Report on Invasive Alien Species and their Control."

• This comprehensive study sheds light on the alarming proliferation of invasive alien species worldwide and their devastating impact on global biodiversity.

What are the Major Highlights of the Report?

• The scale of the Problem of Invasion of Alien Species:
  • The report reveals the presence of approximately 37,000 alien species, introduced by human activities, across various regions and biomes.
  • Of these, more than 3,500 are classified as invasive alien species, posing severe threats to local ecosystems.
    • About 6% of alien plants, 22% of alien invertebrates, 14% of alien vertebrates, and 11% of alien microbes are known to be invasive.
• Leading Invasive Species:
  • The water hyacinth ranks as the world's most widespread invasive alien species on land.
  • Lantana, a flowering shrub, and the black rat hold the second and third positions on the global invasion scale.
  • The brown rat and house mouse are also widespread invaders.
• Perceived Benefits vs. Negative Impacts:
  • Many invasive alien species were intentionally introduced for perceived benefits in sectors such as forestry, agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture, and as pets.
  • However, their negative impacts on biodiversity and local ecosystems were often not considered.
    • Invasive alien species have played a significant role in 60% of documented global plant and animal extinctions.
    • These species are now recognized as one of the five primary drivers of biodiversity loss, alongside land and sea use change, direct exploitation of organisms, climate change, and pollution.
    • Nearly 80% of the documented impacts of invasive species on nature’s contribution to people are negative.
• Regional Distribution: 34% of the impacts of biological invasions were reported from the Americas, 31% from Europe and Central Asia, 25% from Asia and the Pacific, and about 7% from Africa.
  • The majority of negative impacts occur on land, especially in forests, woodlands, and cultivated areas.
  • Invasive alien species are most damaging on islands. On more than 25% of all islands, the number of alien plants now exceeds the native plants.
  • 85% of the impacts of biological invasions on native species are negative.

What are Invasive Alien Species?

• About:
  • Invasive alien species, also known as invasive exotic species or non-native species, refer to organisms that have been introduced to regions or ecosystems outside of their native range and have established self-sustaining populations.
  • These species often outcompete native species and disrupt the balance of ecosystems, leading to a range of negative impacts.
• Factors Responsible for Rising Invasive Species:
  • Globalization of Trade and Travel: Increased international trade and travel have facilitated the unintentional movement of species across borders.
    • Cargo ships, airplanes, and vehicles can inadvertently carry invasive species within cargo, through ballast water, or attached to their surfaces, facilitating their unintentional spread.
      • Introduced to Australia in the late 1800s via shipwrecks and the pearling industry, the Black Rat is regarded as one of the "World's Worst" invasive species by the IUCN.
  • Climate Change: Elevated temperatures and shifts in precipitation patterns promote environments conducive to the colonization and proliferation of invasive species.
    • Shifts in the timing of seasons can disrupt the life cycles of native species, making them more susceptible to invasive competitors and predators.
  • Human Introduction of Exotic Species: Deliberate introduction of non-native species for purposes like gardening, landscaping, and pest control can lead to invasions when these species escape cultivation.
• Impacts of Invasive Alien Species:
  • Ecological Impacts: Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and habitat, leading to a decline or extinction of native species.
    • Some invasive species may become predators of native species, causing declines in prey populations.
    • These disruptions can have far-reaching consequences for ecosystem stability and resilience.
  • Economic Impacts: The annual costs of invasive alien species have quadrupled every decade since 1970. In 2019, the global economic cost of these species exceeded a staggering USD 423 billion annually.
    • Species like Zebra mussels can clog water pipes and infrastructure, leading to expensive repairs and maintenance.
  • Impact on Food Supply: The reduction of food supply is the most common consequence of alien invasive species.
    • Examples include the Caribbean false mussel damaging fisheries in Kerala.
  • Health Implications: Invasive species like Aedes albopictus and Aedes Aegyptii spread diseases like malaria, Zika, and West Nile Fever, impacting human health.
    • Water hyacinth in Lake Victoria led to the depletion of tilapia(fish), impacting local fisheries.
• International Instruments and Programmes on Invasive Species:
  • Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022): Governments have committed to reducing the rate of introduction and establishment of invasive alien species by at least 50% by 2030.
  • Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD - 1992): Adopted at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, it recognizes invasive alien species as a major threat to the environment, second only to habitat destruction.
  • Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS - 1979): This intergovernmental treaty aims to conserve migratory species and includes measures to control or eliminate invasive alien species already present.
  • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES - 1975): Focuses on ensuring international trade does not threaten the survival of wild animals and plants; it also considers the impact of invasive species involved in trade.

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Q. With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct? (2015)

1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments.
2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (b)

Forest Conservation and Tribal Rights in Northeast India

For Prelims: Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act (FCA), 2023, Recorded Forest Areas, Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006.

For Mains: Forest Conservation and Tribal Rights in Northeast India.

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, The Mizoram Assembly has passed a resolution opposing the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act (FCA), 2023, highlighting the ongoing challenges in forest conservation and tribal rights in Northeast India.

What are the Concerns Raised by the North Eastern States Against FCA?

• Amendment's Impact on Northeast India:
  • The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act of 2023 allows for forest land diversion for projects located within 100 km of India's international borders without requiring forest clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980.
  • Most of Northeast India falls within the 100 km range, raising concerns about the environmental impact and infringement on tribal rights.
• Forests Not Officially Classified are not Protected:
  • Until 1996, the provisions of the FCA were only applied to forests that had been declared or notified as a forest, and to forests recorded in government records on or after 25^th October 1980.
  • The areas not officially classified as forests in a government record, even if they are standing forests, will not be protected from commercial exploitation or any other kind of diversion.
    • This overturns a 1996 Supreme Court order in the Godavarman case which ruled that any area resembling a forest's dictionary meaning would be protected under conservation laws.
• State Opposition:
  • Mizoram and Tripura have passed resolutions opposing the amendment, expressing their commitment to protecting the rights and interests of their people.
  • Nagaland faces demands to follow suit, and Sikkim has also opposed the 100 km exemption clause.
• Significant Area is Unclassed Forest:
  • A huge portion of forests in the North East are privately owned: either by individuals, or clans or village councils, or communities, enabled by special privileges that the Constitution guarantees to tribal communities.
  • More than 50% of the Recorded Forest Areas (RFA) in the North East falls under “unclassed forests”—forests which are not notified under any law.
    • For example, 97.3% of RFA in Nagaland, 88.2% in Meghalaya, 76% in Manipur, 53% in Arunachal Pradesh, 43% in Tripura, 33% in Assam, and 15.5% of Mizoram fall under unclassed forests category.
  • This means that these large areas of unclassed forests would be excluded from this Act unless they are included in government records.

How are Forests Protected in North East India?

• Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act (FRA) 2006:
  • Forest Land includes unclassified forests, un-demarcated forests, existing or deemed forests, protected forests, reserved forests, Sanctuaries, and National Parks.
  • This complied with the 1996 Supreme Court redefinition.
• Article 371A and 371G:
  • Special Constitutional protections in Article 371A (Nagaland) and 371G (Mizoram) prohibit the application of laws that impinge on tribal customary law, land ownership, and transfer without the State Legislative Assemblies' resolutions.
    • Mizoram, unlike Nagaland, falls under the purview of FCA due to its status as a State. The amendment affects 84.53% of its forest areas.
    • Mizoram from the Union Territory became a State with the Constitution (Fifty-Third Amendment) Act 1986, adding Article 371G to the Constitution, stipulating that all Central Acts in force before 1986 are extended to the State, including the FCA.
• Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006:
  • FRA recognizes traditional forest rights in various forest types, including unclassed forests, providing an additional layer of protection for tribal communities.
    • The potential benefits, most Northeastern states, except Assam and Tripura, have not implemented FRA, citing reasons such as land ownership patterns and lack of forest-dependent communities.

What are the Constitutional Articles that Provide Exemptions to the Northeastern States?

Article (Amendment)	State	Provision
Article 371A (13th Amendment Act, 1962)	Nagaland	Parliament cannot legislate in matters of Naga religion or social practices, Naga customary law and procedure, administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Naga customary law, and ownership and transfer of land without the concurrence of the state Assembly.
Article 371G (53rd Amendment Act, 1986)	Mizoram	Parliament cannot make laws on “religious or social practices of the Mizos, Mizo customary law and procedure, administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Mizo customary law, ownership and transfer of land unless the Assembly decides.

Marine Sand Extraction

For Prelims: Sustainable Sand Mining Management Guidelines 2016, Marine Sand Watch

For Mains: Environmental and socio-economic impacts of marine sand extraction, Sand Mining in India.

Source: DTE

Why in News?

Recently, a newly launched data platform called "Marine Sand Watch" sheds light on this critical issue, revealing the scale of sand extraction and its far-reaching consequences.

• The relentless extraction of sand from the world's oceans is posing a severe threat to marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

What is Marine Sand Extraction?

• About:
  • Marine sand extraction is the process of removing sand from the seabed or the coastal zone for various purposes, such as construction, land reclamation, beach nourishment, or mining.
• Process:
  • Dredging:
    • Dredging is the most common method of marine sand extraction. It involves using a vessel equipped with a suction pipe or a mechanical grab to scoop up the sand from the seabed and transport it to the shore or another location.
  • Mining:
    • Mining is another method of marine sand extraction. It involves using specialized equipment, such as drills, cutters, or jets, to break up the sand deposits and extract the minerals or metals from them.
  • Harvesting:
    • Harvesting is a less common method of marine sand extraction. It involves using natural forces, such as waves, currents, or tides, to collect the sand from the coastal zone and deposit it onshore.
• Extraction Estimates:
  • The platform has estimated that between four and eight billion tonnes of sand are being dredged from the ocean floor every year.
    • Marine sand extraction is expected to rise to 10 to 16 billion tonnes per year, which is the natural replenishment rate or the amount that rivers need to maintain coastal and marine ecosystem structure and function.

Marine Sand Watch:

• It is a data platform developed by a Centre for Analytics within the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
• The platform will track and monitor dredging (removal) activities of sand, clay, silt, gravel, and rock in the world’s marine environment.
• It will provide information on areas used for sand extraction , areas of capital and maintenance dredging, sand trading ports/hubs, number of vessels and operators, and extraction of sediment and other types of activities by countries with Exclusive Economic Zones.

What is the Impact of Marine Sand Extraction?

• Environmental Impact:
  • Turbidity of Water: Sand extraction increases water turbidity (the measure of relative clarity of a liquid), reducing water clarity and affecting aquatic ecosystems.
  • Nutrient Alteration: It disrupts nutrient availability, potentially harming marine flora and fauna.
  • Noise Pollution: The extraction process generates noise pollution, which can disturb marine organisms and their habitats.
• Community and Infrastructure Impact:
  • Coastal Community Vulnerability: Coastal communities face risks as sand is needed for coastal defence structures, critical in mitigating rising sea levels and storms.
  • Infrastructure Support: Marine sand is crucial for building offshore infrastructure, including wind and wave turbines.
  • Salinization Risk: Coastal or near-shore extraction can lead to the salinization of aquifers, impacting freshwater resources.
  • Tourism Development: Sand extraction can hinder future tourist development in coastal areas, affecting local economies.

What are the Responses to Marine Sand Extraction?

• Sand Mining in India:
  • Sand is classified as a “minor mineral”, under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulations) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) and administrative control over minor minerals vests with the State Governments.
    • Rivers and coastal areas are the main sources of sand, and the demand for it has increased significantly in recent years due to the construction and infrastructure development boom in the country.
  • The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has issued "Sustainable Sand Mining Management Guidelines 2016" to promote scientific sand mining and environmentally friendly management practices.
• Global Responses:
  • Some countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia have banned marine sand exports in the last two decades.
• UNEP Recommendations:
  • The UNEP advocates for better monitoring of sand extraction and use.
  • UNEP calls for the establishment of international standards for sand extraction in the marine environment.
• International Seabed Authority (ISA):
  • The ISA is an intergovernmental organization that regulates deep-sea mining and exploration in international waters.
  • The ISA was established in 1982 under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Way Forward

• More innovation and investment are required for sustainable alternatives to marine sand extraction. This involves reducing sand demand through better construction materials, recycling, and circular economy principles.
  • It also includes exploring alternative sources of sand, such as manufactured sand from crushed rock or quarry dust, or natural sources such as desert or volcanic sand.
• Effective governance and regulation of marine sand extraction, at various levels, is crucial. This involves establishing clear standards for environmental assessments, licensing, reporting, and auditing.
• The UNEP Marine Sand Watch initiative is a positive step, but there is a need for more cooperation and support from stakeholders for better data and policymaking.

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q. Consider the following statements:

1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters.
3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on the seafloor in international waters.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only 
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (b)

• The Global Ocean Commission was an international initiative between 2013 and 2016 to raise awareness, promote action to address the degradation of the ocean and help restore it to full health and productivity.
• International Seabed Authority (ISA) is a UN body set up to regulate the exploration and exploitation of marine non-living resources of oceans in international waters. It considers applications for exploration and exploitation of deep-sea resources from contractors, assesses environmental impact assessments and supervises mining activities. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
• India was the first country to receive the status of a ‘Pioneer Investor’ in 1987 and was given an area of about 1.5 lakh sq. km in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) for nodule exploration. India’s exclusive rights to explore polymetallic nodules from seabed in the Central Indian Ocean Basin was extended in 2017 for five years. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Rare earth minerals have unique magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties and thus are used in many modern technologies, including consumer electronics, computers and networks, communications, health care, national defense, etc. They are called ‘rare earth’ because earlier it was difficult to extract them from their oxides forms technologically.
• Rare earth minerals are present on the seafloor in international waters. The sea floor of various oceans boasts one of the world’s largest untapped collections of rare-earth minerals. Hence, statement 3 is correct. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer

---

Mains

Q. Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyze the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (2019)

ASEAN Denies Myanmar's Chairmanship for 2026

Source: TOI

Why in News?

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders have decided to deny Myanmar the opportunity to assume the rotating leadership of their regional bloc in 2026.

• This decision comes as a setback to Myanmar's ruling generals, who have been seeking international recognition after seizing power violently in 2021.
• Philippines agreed to take over the regional bloc’s chairmanship in 2026 at the ASEAN summit hosted by Indonesia.

What are the Reasons for Myanmar's Exclusion from the ASEAN Leadership?

• ASEAN diplomats have suggested that Myanmar's exclusion is related to ongoing civil strife within the country.
• Additionally, there are concerns that ASEAN's relations with the United States and the European Union, among other international actors, might be negatively impacted due to their non-recognition of Myanmar's military-led government.

What is the Background and Concerns in Myanmar?

• Background:
  • In 2021, the Myanmar Army ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's democratically elected government, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for her immediate release from detention.
  • Western governments, led by the US, have been vocal in their opposition to the military-led government in Myanmar.
• Issues:
  • Since the military takeover in Myanmar, security forces have been accused of killing approximately 4,000 civilians and arresting over 24,000 others.
  • Myanmar’s economy has collapsed with nearly half of the population now living below the poverty line.
  • Despite clear legal obligations for the military to protect civilians in the conduct of hostilities, there has been consistent disregard for the related rules of international law.

What is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)?

• About:
  • It is a regional grouping that promotes economic, political, and security cooperation.
  • It was established in August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the founding members of ASEAN, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
  • Its chairmanship rotates annually, based on the alphabetical order of the English names of Member States.
  • In 2022, the estimated total GDP of all ASEAN states amounted to approximately USD 3.66 trillion.
  • Commodity trade between India and ASEAN region has reached 98.39 billion in the period April 2021- February 2022. India’s main trading ties are with Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand.
• Members:
  • ASEAN brings together ten Southeast Asian states – Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam – into one organisation.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q1. Consider the following countries: (2018)

1. Australia
2. Canada
3. China
4. India
5. Japan
6. USA

Which of the above are among the ‘free-trade partners’ of ASEAN?

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5
(b) 3, 4, 5 and 6
(c) 1, 3, 4 and 5
(d) 2, 3, 4 and 6

Ans: (c)

Q2. The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as (2016)

(a) G20
(b) ASEAN
(c) SCO
(d) SAARC

Ans: (b)

Rapid Fire Current Affairs

Bird-Like Dinosaur: Fujianvenator prodigiosus

• The recent discovery of fossils of a Jurassic Period bird-like dinosaur called Fujianvenator prodigiosus in southeastern China has captivated scientists and shed light on a critical evolutionary stage in the origin of birds.
• The dinosaur had elongated legs and arms built much like wings, suggesting it either was a fast runner or lived a lifestyle like a modern wading bird.
• It is classified as a member of a grouping called avialans that includes all birds and their closest non-avian dinosaur relatives.
• Its forelimb is generally built like a bird's wing, but with three claws on the fingers, which are absent from modern birds.

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India's first ever UPI-ATM

• India's first UPI-ATM was launched on 5th September 2023, by Hitachi Payment Services.
• The ATM is a White Label ATM (WLA) developed in collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
• The ATM was designed to enable "seamless cash withdrawals" and eliminate the need to carry physical ATM cards. It also aims to drive financial inclusion by making banking services more accessible in areas with limited traditional banking infrastructure.

Read more: Unified Payments Interface (UPI)

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UIDAI Drives Aadhaar Innovation at Global Fintech Festival

At the Global Fintech Festival in Mumbai, Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) unveiled its enhanced Face Authentication feature, utilizing in-house Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technologies, embodying the theme "reimagining Aadhaar authentication."

• Under the Volunteer Guideline 2022 initiative, UIDAI has fostered collaborations with industry and fintech partners to accelerate technology adoption and develop innovative solutions for residents.
• Collaborative efforts with Airtel Payments Bank have enhanced face authentication, optimizing low-light conditions and bolstering fraud prevention measures.

Read more: Unique Identification Authority of India, Artificial Intelligence.

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EMRS Principal Honored with National Teachers’ Award 2023

Union Minister for Tribal Affairs felicitated Dr. Yashpal Singh, Principal of Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, who received the prestigious National Teachers’ Award for 2023.

• The EMRS scheme, initiated in 1997-98, aimed to establish residential schools that offer free education to Scheduled Tribe children from class VI to XII in remote corners.
  • The scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.

Read more: Eklavya Model Residential School, National Teachers’ Award for 2023.