World Tribal Day 2023

Small Modular Reactors for Decarbonization

Source: TH

Why in News?

The rise in coal consumption despite increased solar and wind power underlines the need for Low-Carbon Electricity Resources such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to ensure Deep Decarbonization.

• Conventional NPPs (Nuclear Power Plants) have generally suffered from time and cost overruns. As an alternative, several countries are developing (SMRs) – nuclear reactors with a maximum capacity of 300 MW – to complement conventional NPPs.

What is Decarbonization?

• About:
  • Decarbonization refers to the process of reducing the Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Emissions produced by human activities, particularly those related to the burning of fossil fuels such as Coal, Oil, and Natural gas.
• Need:
  • The global pursuit of decarbonization aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7, which emphasizes affordable and sustainable energy access.
    • However, the world's heavy reliance on fossil fuels, constituting 82% of energy supply, necessitates the urgent decarbonization of the power sector.
  • The rise in coal consumption in Europe despite increased solar and Wind Power underlines the need for reliable low-carbon electricity resources to ensure deep decarbonization, grid stability, and energy security.
• Challenges of Decarbonization:
  • Clean Energy Transition Challenges: The shift from coal to clean energy is a complex challenge globally. Several nations concur that relying solely on solar and wind energy would not suffice reliable and affordable energy access for all.
    • In decarbonized power systems dominated by renewables, introducing at least one stable power source enhances grid reliability and reduces expenses, contributing to a balanced energy mix.
  • Critical Minerals Demand and Complexities: The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts a potential 3.5x surge in demand for critical minerals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and Rare Earth Elements by 2030, essential for clean energy technologies.
    • However, this demand escalation raises multiple global issues, including the large capital investments to develop new mines and processing facilities.
  • Challenges in the Mineral Supply Chain: Rapid development in countries like China, Indonesia, Africa, and South America, coupled with concentration of mineral extraction and processing capacities, presents environmental, social, geopolitical, and supply risks.
    • Addressing these challenges becomes critical for sustainable clean energy advancement.

What are Small Modular Reactors (SRMs)?

• About:
  • SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors.
  • SMRs, which can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity, are,
    • Small: Physically a fraction of the size of a conventional nuclear power reactor.
    • Modular: Making it possible for systems and components to be factory-assembled and transported as a unit to a location for installation.
    • Reactors: Harnessing nuclear fission to generate heat to produce energy.
  • Their designs incorporate enhanced safety features, reducing the risk of uncontrolled radioactive material release.
    • SMRs are designed to operate for 40-60 years with capacity factors exceeding 90%.

• Advantages:
  • Reliable Low-carbon Electricity Source:
    • As the demand for electricity is projected to surge by 80-150% by 2050, SMRs could provide a reliable 24/7 low-carbon electricity source that complements intermittent renewables.
    • This is crucial for achieving grid reliability and reducing costs in decarbonized electricity systems.
  • Minimized Land Acquisition Challenges:
    • SMRs generate less spent nuclear fuel and can be safely operated in existing brownfield sites, minimizing land acquisition challenges.
    • SMRs are also simpler to design and manufacture, with potential for cost reduction through serial manufacturing.
  • Alternatives to Critical Minerals:
    • The transition to clean energy requires Critical Minerals for technologies like lithium-ion batteries, leading to concerns about geopolitical risks and environmental impacts.
    • SMRs offer an alternative, as they require low-enriched uranium, which is more widely distributed than critical minerals.
  • Integration with India's Energy Strategy:
    • For India, which aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, SMRs can play a pivotal role. As coal-based thermal power plants and variable renewable energy sources contribute significantly to the energy mix, SMRs can enhance energy security and grid stability.
      • India's Central Electricity Authority envisions SMRs as a crucial element in meeting electricity demands, while private sector investments, including public-private partnerships, are vital for expansion.

How can Low-Carbon Electricity Resources be Promoted for Decarbonization?

• An efficient regulatory regime comparable to that in the civil aviation sector – which has more stringent safety requirements – is important if SMRs are to play a meaningful role in decarbonising the power sector.
• This can be achieved if all countries that accept nuclear energy direct their respective regulators to cooperate amongst themselves and with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to harmonize their regulatory requirements and expedite statutory approvals for SMRs based on standard, universal designs.
• To facilitate SMR deployment, India needs to amend the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 to allow private sector involvement.
• While maintaining government control over nuclear fuel and waste, an independent regulatory board should oversee the entire nuclear power cycle.
• The India-US '123 agreement' provides opportunities for India to reprocess spent fuel from SMRs under IAEA safeguards, contributing to resource sustainability.
  • It also permits India to set up a facility to reprocess spent fuel from SMRs under safeguards of the IAEA.

Nurturing India's Cotton Sector

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recently, the Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Textiles highlighted the significant strides taken to empower cotton farmers and promote the cotton sector.

What are the Indian Government Initiatives Related to the Development of the Cotton Sector?

• Cotton Development Programme Under National Food Security Mission (NFSM):
  • Implemented by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare in 15 major cotton-growing states: Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh & West Bengal from 2014-15.
  • Aims to enhance cotton production and productivity in major cotton-growing states.
  • Includes demonstrations, trials, distribution of plant protection chemicals, and training.
• MSP Formula for Cotton:
  • Introduced a formula of 1.5 times the cost of production (A2+FL) for Minimum Support Price (MSP) calculation.
  • Ensures economic interest of cotton farmers and availability of cotton to the textile industry.
  • Increases MSP rates to support farmers' income.
  • For cotton season 2022-23, MSP of Fair Average Quality (FAQ) grade cotton had increased by about 6% which has further been increased by 9% to 10% for ensuing cotton season 2023-24.
• Cotton Corporation of India (CCI):
  • Appointed as a Central Nodal agency for MSP operations when Fair Average Quality grade seed cotton (kapas) fall below the MSP rates.
  • Safeguards farmers from distress sales.
• Branding and Traceability:
  • Launched Kasturi Cotton to promote Indian cotton with a brand name.
  • Aims to ensure quality, traceability, and branding of Indian cotton.
• Large-Scale Demonstrations Project:
  • Sanctioned by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare under NFSM.
  • Focuses on best practices to enhance cotton productivity.
  • Focus on innovative technologies, such as High Density Planting System (HDPS) and the value chain approach.
  • Sanctioning of a project titled "Targeting technologies to agro-ecological zones-large scale demonstrations of best practices to enhance cotton productivity."
• Textile Advisory Group (TAG):
  • Constituted by the Ministry of Textiles to facilitate coordination among stakeholders in the cotton value chain.
  • Addresses issues related to productivity, prices, branding, and more.
• Cott-Ally Mobile App:
  • Developed to provide farmers with knowledge through a user-friendly interface.
  • Key Features:
    • MSP Rate Awareness.
    • Nearest Procurement Centers.
    • Payment Tracking.
    • Best Farm Practices.
• Committee on Cotton Promotion and Consumption (COCPC):
  • Ensures availability of cotton to the textile industry.
  • Monitors cotton scenario and advises the government on production and consumption matters.

Indian Web Browser Development Challenge

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has launched the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC), inviting developers to create an Indigenous Indian Web Browser for global use.

• A key requirement of this competition is that the browser ideas must trust the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), the Indian government's authority responsible for digital signatures, including SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates.

What is the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge?

• About:
  • The IWBDC is an Open Challenge Competition that seeks to inspire and empower technology enthusiasts, innovators, and developers from all corners of the country to create an indigenous web browser.
  • It will have its own trust store with an inbuilt Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) India root certificate, cutting edge functionalities and enhanced security & data privacy protection features.
  • IWBDC is spearheaded by MeitY, CCA and C-DAC Bangalore.
  • The competition is being organised and financed in collaboration with the IT Ministry’s Research and Development division and the National Internet Exchange of India.
• Objective:
  • Proposed browser will focus on accessibility and user friendliness, ensuring built-in support for individuals with diverse abilities.
  • Moreover, the browser envisions the ability to digitally sign documents using a crypto token, bolstering secure transactions and digital interactions.
• Significance:
  • The challenge marks a significant stride towards an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, designed to strengthen India’s digital sovereignty through the development of the Indian Web Browser.
  • This challenge addresses one of the critical components – Web browser – through which the end users accessing the Internet.

What are Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificates?

• About:
  • An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates a website's identity and enables an encrypted connection.
  • It is a security protocol that creates an encrypted link between a web server and a web browser.
    • Companies and organizations need to add SSL certificates to their websites to secure online transactions and keep customer information private and secure.
• Role of Root certifying Authorities in Trust:
  • While India has a legally valid root certifying authority called the Root Certifying Authority of India, established in 2000 under the CCA, the certificates issued by it are not widely recognized by popular web browsers.
    • The CCA has established the RCAI under section 18(b) of the IT Act to digitally sign the public keys of CAs in the country.
    • The RCAI is operated as per the standards laid down under the Act.
  • This reliance on foreign authorities has raised concerns over digital security and foreign exchange outflow.
• Issues with Indian SSL System:
  • India lacks a root certifying authority that is trusted by major browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
    • This has led to Indian government and private websites obtaining SSL certificates from foreign certifying authorities.
  • A notable incident involving the National Informatics Centre (NIC), a CCA-approved organization responsible for hosting and maintaining various Union and State Government websites, underscored trust issues in Indian certifying authorities.
    • In 2014, browsers and operating systems stopped trusting India's CCA after the NIC was linked to issuing fraudulent certificates.
  • While NIC's authorization for SSL certificate issuance was revoked, the trust in Indian certifying authorities remained compromised.

Empowering Agroforestry and Natural Farming

Source: PIB

Why in News?

The erstwhile Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Sub-Mission on Agroforestry (SMAF) has been restructured and incorporated as an agroforestry component within the framework of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).

• This innovative approach aligns with India's commitment to eco-friendly practices, including the promotion of natural farming – a chemical-free method rooted in integrated agriculture and animal husbandry.

What are the Key Features of Restructured Agroforestry Scheme Under RKVY?

• Focused Approach:
  • The revamped scheme places a strong emphasis on promoting and ensuring the availability of Quality Planting Material (QPM) as a crucial element in the domain of agroforestry.
  • The Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Agroforestry Research Institute (CAFRI) takes on the pivotal role of being the nodal agency for providing technical support, capacity building, and guidance for establishing nurseries, producing, and certifying QPM.
    • The production and certification of QPM accorded a distinctive priority under this scheme.
• AICRP Centers:
  • Under the framework of All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) centers on agroforestry, CAFRI collaborates with research centers located across the nation to foster innovation, develop sustainable practices, and disseminate knowledge.
• State Nodal Departments/Agencies:
  • For effective implementation, each State/Union Territory identifies a designated State Nodal Department/Agency.
    • The State Nodal Department/Agency undertakes the responsibility of ensuring the production and availability of QPM, either independently or through collaborations with various institutions and entities.
• Free Distribution to Farmers/SHGs:
  • The QPM raised through this scheme is made accessible to farmers and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), either free of cost or based on decisions made by respective States/UTs.
• Key Components and Activities:
  • Establishment of Nurseries for QPM Production
  • Tissue Culture Lab for Quality Planting Material
  • Skill Development and Awareness Campaign (up to 5% of allocation)
  • Research & Development, Market Linking
  • Project Management Unit (PMU) and Agroforestry Technical Support Group (TSG)
  • Local Initiatives (up to 2% of Approved Annual Plan).

What are the Government Initiatives for Promoting Natural Farming?

• Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) Sub-Scheme:
  • Launched under Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) since 2019-2020, this sub-scheme advocates chemical-free farming through an integrated approach that involves livestock and local resources, emphasizing biomass recycling and mulching.
• Namami Gange Program:
  • As part of the PKVY scheme, the government is promoting chemical-free organic farming along the banks of the Ganga River. Since 2017-18, approximately 1.23 lakh hectares of land have been covered under this initiative.
• Expansion Along the Ganga Corridor:
  • In 2022-23, the government approved Chemical-free Natural Farming for a 1.48 lakh hectare area in 5-km wide corridors along the Ganga River in the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh.

Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider Authorization

Source: PIB

Why in News?  

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)  recently released recommendations on ‘Introduction of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider Authorization under Unified License (UL). 

• These recommendations are in alignment with the National Digital Communications Policy (NDCP-2018), which underscores the pivotal role of digital infrastructure in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life.  

What are the Major Recommendations of TRAI?  

• Creation of DCIP Authorization: TRAI recommends the creation of a new category of license, the Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider (DCIP) Authorization.  
  • This authorization allows for the creation of both active and passive digital connectivity infrastructure. 
  • The DCIP authorization is not a standalone license but falls under the Unified License framework. This move aims to encourage the emergence of players specialized in creating active and passive DCI. 
    • Unified License offers service-wise authorizations, where licensees establish networks and use them to provide services.  
• Scope of DCIP Authorization: The scope of the proposed DCIP authorization is extensive, covering the ownership, establishment, maintenance, and operation of various components such as Wireline Access Network, Radio Access Network (RAN), Wi-Fi systems, Transmission Links etc. 
  • However, it excludes core network elements and  spectrum. 
• Self-Regulation and Compliance: To ensure compliance with security conditions, Quality of Service (QoS), and other license obligations, TRAI proposes a principal-agent relationship between DCIPs and licensed entities.  
• Sharing of Infrastructure: DCIP licensees are allowed to share their infrastructure with other UL licensees and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), subject to certain conditions.  
  • This sharing fosters increased collaboration, cost reduction, and efficient service delivery. 
• Access to Eligible Entities: DCIP licensees are recommended to provide DCI items, equipment, and systems on lease/rent/sale basis to entities with valid licenses under the Telegraph Act 1885 and those notified by the Government for this purpose. 
  • This extends to DCIP licensees who are also licensed under the Electricity Act, promoting access to their infrastructure on an access rights basis. 

What is the Significance of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure?  

• About:  
  • In the modern age of digital transformation, digital connectivity infrastructure has emerged as a cornerstone of economic growth, social progress, and technological innovation as highlighted in NDCP-2018. 
  • TRAI’s recent recommendations aim to establish a framework for integrating DCI into building development plans, analogous to other essential services like water, electricity, and fire safety systems.  
• Significance:  
  • Facilitating Communication and Information Flow: Digital connectivity infrastructure, including broadband networks and mobile services, enables instant communication across geographical boundaries. 
    • It facilitates the exchange of information, ideas, and knowledge, contributing to the growth of education, research, and innovation. 
  • Driving Economic Growth: Digital connectivity is a catalyst for economic development by providing businesses with access to a global marketplace. 
    • E-commerce, online services, and digital platforms leverage connectivity to reach customers and streamline operations, leading to increased trade and economic activity. 
  • Empowering Digital Services: The availability of high-speed internet and reliable connectivity is essential for the deployment of digital services such as telemedicine, e-governance, and online education. 
    • These services improve accessibility, efficiency, and inclusivity, enhancing overall quality of life. 
  • Enhancing Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Digital connectivity infrastructure fosters innovation by enabling collaboration, data sharing, and remote work. 
    • Entrepreneurs can leverage online platforms to develop and launch innovative products and services, contributing to economic diversification. 
  • Supporting Industry Transformation: Industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare are undergoing digital transformation, relying on connectivity to implement automation, IoT, and data analytics. 
    • Smart factories, precision agriculture, and telemedicine are just a few examples of how connectivity is revolutionizing traditional sectors. 
  • Bridging the Digital and Social Divide: Digital connectivity infrastructure helps bridge the digital divide by providing previously underserved or remote areas with access to information, education, and economic opportunities. 
    • It contributes to social inclusion and reduces inequalities by ensuring that all segments of society can benefit from technological advancements. 
  • Minimum Government Maxmium Governance: It enables the streamlined implementation of various governmental initiatives, such as Digital India, Make in India, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), and the development of Smart Cities. 
    • Digital public infrastructure is also one of India's G-20 priorities. 

Economic Community of West African States

Source: IE

Why in News?

Recently, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has emerged at the forefront of international attention due to its active involvement in addressing the aftermath of the coup in Niger.

• This coup, which ousted the democratically elected President and ushered in a military coup, has raised alarm bells globally.

What is the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)?

• About:
  • The ECOWAS, also known as CEDEAO in French, is a regional intergovernmental organization established in 1975.
  • Created through the Lagos Treaty, ECOWAS aims to foster economic integration, cooperation, and development among West African nations.
  • The Secretariat, headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria.
• Member States:
  • ECOWAS consists of 15 member states: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’ Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal, and Togo.
• Primary Goals and Objectives:
  • Promoting economic integration among member states.
  • Facilitating the free movement of people, goods, and services.
  • Enhancing regional cooperation in various sectors, including industry, transport, energy, and finance.
  • Fostering a borderless region governed by democratic principles, the rule of law, and good governance.
  • Addressing security and political challenges through collaboration and conflict resolution.
• Achievements and Initiatives:
  • The establishment of a regional peacekeeping force known as the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), which played pivotal roles in resolving conflicts in Liberia and Sierra Leone during the 1990s and early 2000s.
  • Launching the ECOWAS Single Currency Initiative to create a common currency, fostering economic integration and trade.
  • Supporting efforts to combat terrorism, human trafficking, and organized crime through joint initiatives and collaboration.

Rapid Fire Current Affairs

SuSwagatam Portal

Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) announced the launch of the portal 'SuSwagatam', which would enable advocates, visitors, interns and others to register themselves online and get e-passes to enter the apex court.

• In July 2023, the portal underwent testing as a pilot project and received positive responses from its users.
• It is a web-based and mobile-friendly application that allows users to request for e-passes for various purposes such as attending court hearings, meeting advocates, etc.

Read More: Initiatives Taken for Improving the Judicial System

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Arunachal Rang Mahotsav

The Arunachal Rang Mahotsav is a four-day festival celebrated across various States in India.

• It aligns with the principles of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
• The festival is celebrated with the aim of showcasing Arunachal's history through drama, 4 plays were scheduled to be performed in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Guwahati.

Read More: Statehood Day of Arunachal Pradesh

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INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata in MALABAR 2023

Indian Navy's indigenous warships, INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata, are set to partake in Exercise MALABAR 2023 that is going to held near Sydney from August 11 to 21, 2023.

• It will be accompanied by vessels and aircraft from the US Navy (USN), Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
  • Originating in 1992 as a bilateral endeavor between the Indian Navy and US Navy, the MALABAR series of maritime exercises has evolved remarkably, now encompassing four significant naval forces in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Read more: MALABAR Exercise

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New Spaceport in Tamil Nadu to Boost India’s Space Sector

India is set to expand its space capabilities with the establishment of a new spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu.

• The spaceport will be used for launching the Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV) developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which are designed to offer low-cost and flexible access to space for small satellites.
• The spaceport will also be open for use by Non-Government Entities (NGEs), subject to technical and safety requirements, as per the Indian Space Policy 2023.
  • The Government has also established the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) as a single-window agency for facilitating and authorizing the space activities of NGEs.

Read more: Indian Space Policy 2023, Small Satellite Launch Vehicles .