Current Affairs – 03rd May 2024

Articles Covered

  1. 2nd Session of India-Nigeria Joint Trade Committee held in Abuja
  2. Shaksgam Valley
  3. 7th India-Indonesia Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting held in New Delhi
  4. Charge Sheet
  5. Amid sexual harassment complaint against West Bengal Governor, a look at how Article 361 provides immunity
  6. NABARD unveils Climate Strategy 2030 to mobilise green financing
  7. Launch of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Technology/Product Booklet and ToT of Thermal Camera to Industry
  8. Garo Hills
  9. Indian spices facing the heat
  10. Electrolysers
  11. New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on Climate Finance and why is it so important
  12. Commission on Population and Development
  13. Government hosts ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon in New Delhi to celebrate International Sun Day

2nd Session of India-Nigeria Joint Trade Committee held in Abuja

Both sides to finalise Local Currency Settlement System Agreement soon

Several areas of focus identified: Digital Economy and Digital Public Infrastructure, Crude oil and Natural Gas, pharmaceuticals

A seven-member delegation from India led by Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Shri AmardeepSingh Bhatia, accompanied by High Commissioner of India to Federal Republic of Nigeria,Shri G Balasubramanian and Economic Adviser, Department of Commerce, Ms. Priya P. Nair held a Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting with their Nigerian counterparts in Abuja from 29.04.2024 to 30.04.2024. The JTC was co-chaired by Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment, Nigeria, Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi; and Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce.

  • In a comprehensive dialogue, both sides undertook a detailed review of recent developments in bilateral trade and investment ties and acknowledged the vast untapped potential for further expansion.
  • To this effect, both sides identified several areas of focus for enhancing both bilateral trade as well as mutually beneficial investments.
  • These include resolving of market access issues of both sides, and cooperation in key sectors such as Crude oil and Natural Gas, Pharmaceuticals, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Local Currency Settlement System, Power Sector and Renewable Energy, Agriculture & Food Processing, Education, Transport, Railway, Aviation, MSMEs, Development etc.
  • Both sides agreed to early conclusion of Local Currency Settlement System Agreement to further strengthen bilateral economic ties.
  • Official delegation from India consisted of officials from Reserve Bank of India (RBI), EXIM Bank of India and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). The officials of both sides actively engaged in the proceedings of the JTC.The discussions were held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere and were fruitful.
  • There was enthusiastic response towards greater cooperation, addressing pending issues, boosting trade and investment, greater people to people contacts.
  • In a concerted effort to bolster bilateral trade, both sides committed to expeditiously address all issues impeding bilateral trade and facilitate trade promotion between the two nations. A business delegation led by CII also accompanied the official delegation comprising representatives from various sectors like power, fintech, telecommunications, electrical machinery, pharmaceuticals, etc.
  • The deliberations of the 2nd Session of India-Nigeria JTC were cordial and forward-looking, indicative of the amicable and special relations between the two countries.
  1. Nigeria is a major partner- the 2nd largest trading partner of India in Africa region. Bilateral trade between India and Nigeria stood at USD 11.8 billion in 2022-23.
  2. In the year 2023-24, the bilateral trade stands at 7.89 billion showing a declining trend.
  3. With a total investment of USD 27 Billion, approximately 135 Indian companies are actively engaged in Nigeria’s vibrant market. These investments traverse diverse sectors, encompassing infrastructure, manufacturing, consumer goods and services.

Shaksgam Valley

India has lodged a strong protest with China for carrying out construction activities in the Shaksgam valley, in an “illegal” attempt to alter the situation on the ground.

Shaksgam Valley

  1. The Shaksgam Valley, or Trans Karakoram Tract,is part of the Hunza-Gilgit region of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) and is a disputed territory claimed by India but controlled by Pakistan.
  2. It borders Xinjiang Province ofthe People’s Republic of China (PRC) to the north, the Northern Areas of POK to the south and west, and the Siachen Glacier region to the east.
  3. It was ceded to China by Pakistanin 1963,when both countries signed a boundary agreement to settle their border differences.

  1. However, Article 6 of the agreement clearly stated that “the two parties have agreed that after the settlement of the Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India, the sovereign authority concerned will reopen negotiations with the Government of the People’s Republic of China, on the boundary as described in Article Two of the present agreement, so as to sign a formal Boundary Treaty to replace the present agreement.”
  2. The agreement laid the foundation of Karakoram highway,which was built jointly by Chinese and Pakistani engineers in the 1970s.

7th India-Indonesia Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting held in New Delhi

Defence Secretary & Secretary General of MoD, Indonesia agree to enhance collaboration in areas of defence industry, maritime security & multilateral cooperation

  • Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane and Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence, Indonesia, Air Marshal Donny Ermawan Taufanto, M.D.S. co-chaired the 7th India-Indonesia Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting in New Delhi on May 03, 2024. During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction at the expanding scope of defence cooperation between the two countries. The progress made on various bilateral defence cooperation initiatives deliberated in meetings of Working Groups on Defence Cooperation and Defence Industries Cooperation was also reviewed by the co-chairs.
  • In addition, the dignitaries identified means to enhance existing areas of collaboration especially in the field of defence industry ties, maritime security and multilateral cooperation.
  • During the visit, the Secretary General visited the DRDO headquarters in New Delhi as well as TATA Advanced Systems and L&T Defence facilities in Pune. He also held deliberations with other Indian defence industry partners like Bharat Forge, Mahindra Defence & Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited and discussed ways to enhance defence industrial capabilities by cooperation in research & joint production. He also called on the Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan during the visit.
  • The Secretary General is on a visit to India from May 02-04, 2024. He laid a wreath and paid homage to the fallen heroes at National War Memorial, New Delhi.
  • India and Indonesia have a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and have arrived at a shared vision of the Indo-Pacific. In current times, this partnership is characterised by closed cooperation in bilateral and multilateral arena, including frequent high-level interactions. Indonesia is an important partner in India’s Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific region.

Charge Sheet

Supreme Court recently observed that the charge sheet must contain clear and complete entries of all columns to enable the court to understand which crime has been committed by which accused and what is the material evidence available on the file.

Charge Sheet

  1. A chargesheet is a final report that is filed by the investigating officer or police officials under Section 173 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPCafter the completion of the investigation in a cognizable or non-cognizable case.
  2. It contains all the stringent records right from the commencement of investigation procedure of lodging an FIR to the completion of investigation and the preparation of final report.
  3. Once the charge sheet has been submitted to a court of law, prosecution proceedings against the accused begin.
  4. This report by the investigating officer should be in the form prescribed by the state government.

Contents of the chargesheet:

  1. A chargesheet must contain the following information as per Section 173(2)(i) of the CrPC:
  2. The names of the parties.
  3. Nature of the information.
  4. Names of the persons who appear to be acquainted with the events.
  5. About the offence that appears to have been committed and the person by whom it has been committed.
  6. Information regarding the arrest of the accused, his/their release with or without sureties, and whether he has been forwarded into custody under Section 170.

Benefits of a chargesheet:

  1. It contains the statements of the accused and all other witnesses.
  2. Marks the beginning of a criminal trial.
  3. Charges on which courts have to proceed against the accused are mentioned.
  4. It is useful for the accused in obtaining bail as the offences are mentioned clearly.
  5. Time limit for filing a Charge Sheet:
  6. It is to be filed within 60 days from the date of arrest of the accused in cases triable by lower courts and 90 days in cases triable by Court of Sessions.
  7. If the charge sheet is not filed within the prescribed time mentioned above, the accused has a right to default bail.

Is filing a chargesheet compulsory?

  1. Filing of a chargesheet in case a cognizable offence is said to be committed by the accused is mandatory on the part of police officials, either by themselves or on the orders of the court, after filing an FIR.
  2. However, the same is not compulsory in cases where a non-cognizable offence has been committed unless the court orders an investigation.

Cognizable Offence

  • The Cr.P.C. classifies all the crimes into two categories: (i) Cognizable and (ii) Non cognizable.
  • Cognizable offence or case is defined as one which an officer in-charge of a police station may investigate without the order of a magistrate and effect arrest without a warrant.
  • The Police have a direct responsibility to take immediate action on the receipt of a complaint or credible information in such crimes, visit the scene of the crime, investigate the facts, apprehend the offender, and arraign him before a Court of law having jurisdiction over the matter.
  • Non-Cognizable crimes are defined as those which cannot be investigated by police without the order ofa competent magistrate.

Amid sexual harassment complaint against West Bengal Governor, a look at how Article 361 provides immunity

Constitutional immunity bars the police from naming the Governor as an accused or even investigating the case. However, there are several precedents where criminal action was halted till a Governor completed his term in office.

A complaint alleging sexual harassment has been lodged against West Bengal Governor.

However, Constitutional immunity prevents the police from identifying the Governor as a suspect or conducting an investigation into the matter.

  1. Constitutional Immunity: Under Article 361, the Constitution establishes a total prohibition on prosecuting the Governor.
  2. The police can take action only after the Governor ceases to be in office, which is when either the Governor resigns or he no longer enjoys the confidence of the President.

Article 361 of the Constitution: It states that the President and the Governors shall not be answerable to any court for the exercise and performance of the powers and duties of his office or for any act done by him in the exercise and performance of those powers and duties.

  1. No criminal proceedings shall be initiated or continued against the President, or the Governor of a State, in any court during the term of his office.
  2. No process for the arrest or imprisonment of the President, or the Governor of a State, shall be issued from any court during his term of office.

Judicial Pronouncements Related to Constitutional Immunity:

  • Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India, 2006:  In this case, the Supreme Court outlined the immunity enjoyed by the Governor even on allegations of personal malafides.
  • He is not answerable to any Court for the exercise and performance of his official duties.
  • The ruling is not for criminal complaints but for exercising discretionary constitutional powers.

Instance When Criminal Proceedings were Suspended Till a Governor Completed Term in Office:

  • Demolition of the Babri Masjid Case: In 2017, the Supreme Court allowed fresh charges of criminal conspiracy against UP Chief Minister Kalyan Singh in the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid.
  • However, the trial did not take place since he was then the Governor of Rajasthan.
  • Ruling by Court: The court held that, being the Governor of Rajasthan, he is entitled to immunity under Article 361 of the Constitution as long as he remains Governor of Rajasthan.
  • The Court of Sessions will frame charges and move against him as soon as he ceases to be Governor.

NABARD unveils Climate Strategy 2030 to mobilise green financing

Real estate developers pledge to ensure sustainable practices

  • Recently, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) unveiled its Climate Strategy 2030 document on the occasion of World Earth Day.
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD):

  • Objective: It has been constituted for “matters concerning policy, planning, and operations in the field of credit for agriculture and other economic activities in rural areas in India “.
  • Setting Up: Based on the recommendations of the B. Sivaraman Committee, it came into existence to implement the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development Act 1981.
  • NABARD replaced the Agricultural Credit Department (ACD) and Rural Planning and Credit Cell (RPCC) of the Reserve Bank of India, and the Agricultural Refinance and Development Corporation (ARDC).
  • Collaborators:  World Bank-affiliated organizations and global developmental agencies working in the field of agriculture and rural development are collaborators of NABARD.

Headquarters: Mumbai

NABARD’s Climate Strategy 2030 Document

  • Aim: To address India’s, need for Green Financing.
  • It was released during the 78th Business Plan Meet (BPM) held at Thiruvananthapuram.
  • It is structured around four key pillars to address this demand:
  1. Accelerating Green Lending across sectors,
  2. Playing a broader Market-Making Role,
  3. Internal Green Transformation of NABARD,
  4. Strategic Resource Mobilization

Objective: 

  1.  To reinforce NABARD’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
  2. To be a pivotal player in India’s transition towards a resilient & sustainable economy.

 

Green Finance

  • As per the United Nations Environment Programme, Green financing is to increase the level of financial flows (from banking, micro-credit, insurance and investment) from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors to sustainable development priorities.
  • Examples of green finance include:
  1. Buying eco-friendly goods and services
  2. The development of green infrastructure
  3. Green bonds
  4. Green mortgages
  5. Green funds
  6. Green loans
  7. Sustainable credit cards
  • It includes climate finance, but is not limited to it.
  • It also refers to awider range of other environmental objectives, such as industrial pollution control, water sanitation or biodiversity protection.

Significance of Green Finance: 

  1. To better manage environmental and social risks,
  2. Take up opportunities that bring both a decent rate of return & environmental benefit.
  3. To deliver greater accountability.

Advantages of Green Finance

  1. Facilitating Eco-Friendly Technologies:Green finance facilitates the widespread deployment of green infrastructure and other environmentally friendly initiatives within local markets.
  2. Competitive Edge:Development of low-carbon technologies through green finance provides businesses with a competitive advantage.
  3. Enhanced Business Value: Green finance adds value to a company’s portfolio, attracting stakeholders, investors,and current or potential customers.
  4. Economic Boost: Businesses can encourage further green initiatives, thereby benefiting their financial pursuits while promoting sustainability.
  5. Promotes the Importance of Sustainability: The adoption of green finance by one company can inspire others to follow suit, influencing their local markets and promoting the development of renewable energy.

Challenges Related to Green Financing:

  1. Lack of Standardization: Without a universal standard defining green finance, it’s challenging for both investors and consumers to discern genuinely committed companies from those engaging in green washing.
  2. Risk Assessment: The lack of standardization and available data complicates the pricing of green finance, posing challenges for accurate risk assessment.

India’s Green Financing Gap:

  1. Insufficient Green Finance inflows: India requires approximately $170 billion annually to reach a cumulative total of over $2.5 trillion by 2030.
  2. As of 2019-20, India garnered about $49 billion in green financing, merely a fraction of what is needed.
  3. Majority of funds earmarked for mitigation, only $5 billion was allocated towards adaptation and resilience.
  4. Due to minimal private sector engagement in these areas &
  5. Due to challenges in bank ability and commercial viability.
  • Data Availability: Reliable data on green finance is scarce, making it difficult to quantify which companies are truly succeeding in implementing green finance initiatives.
  • Transition Risks:Transitioning to a low-carbon economy necessitates changes in business practices across various industries, potentially impacting investor portfolios.
  • Additionally, evolving customer preferences and technological advancements may not align with the needs of green finance, further affecting investor portfolios.
  • Regulatory Concerns: Since green finance is heavily influenced by government policies, investors may worrythat future environmental regulations could diminish the profitability of their investments.
  • Uncertain Financial Performance: Investor hesitancy may arise due to uncertainties between traditional and green finance, particularly concerning short-term returns despite proven long-term profitability.

Green Financing can be Promoted

  1. Through changes in countries’ regulatory frameworks,
  2. By Harmonizing public financial incentives, increases in green financing from different sectors,
  3. Alignment of public sector financing decision-making with the environmental dimension of the Sustainable Development Goals,
  4. Increases in investment in clean and green technologies,
  5. Financing for sustainable natural resource-based green economies and climate smart blue economy, increase use of green bonds etc

Sustainable Practices pledged by Leading Real estate developers from India:

  • DLF:By implementing practices such as zero-discharge water systems and sewage treatment plants, it has been able to recycle millions of liters of water daily, thereby reducing the strain on local water sources.
  • As the only Indian real estate company featured in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the past three years.
  • It exemplified commitment to environmental, social, and governance excellence.
  • They prioritize greenery preservation by transplanting mature trees, ensuring the continuity of Gurugram’s green landscape amidst infrastructural development.
  • Signature Global (India) Ltd.:Majority of their projects are either EDGE certified or IGBC gold-rated, demonstrating commitment towards the environment.
  • They saved around 52% of water usage through various optimum water use practices.
  • Remsons Industries Ltd.: They showcased exemplary performance in key areas such as Environment, Labour and Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement.
  • It received a Gold Medal in the Ecovadis Sustainability Assessment.
  • This medal recognises Remsons Industries as one of the top 5% of all evaluated companies globally, reaffirming its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) excellence.

Launch of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Technology/Product Booklet and ToT of Thermal Camera to Industry

The Indigenous Technologies of Thermal camera has been designed and developed by CDAC under the InTranSE Program of MeitY.

  1. Booklet for Traffic Control Solutions: Under the InTRanSE program,MeitY, technologies/ product/ solution developed for traffic control, road safety have been compiled in a booklet form which was launched for awareness creation.
  2. Thermal Camera: The thermal Smart camera has an inbuilt Data Processing Unit (DPU)to run various AI based analytics.
  3. The indigenised technology is targeted for applications across multiple domains, including Smart cities, Industries, Defence and Health,
  4. Field Testing for Road Traffic Applications: The field implementation, testing and validation of this camera was done for Road traffic applications.

Intelligent Transportation System Endeavour (InTranSe) Program:

  • About: It is a National level Collaborative Research and Development Program aimed to implement and commercialize products and technologies pertinent to Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS).
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS):

  • About: ITS is a revolutionary state-of-the-art technology to achieve traffic efficiency by minimizing traffic problems, prompting efficient infrastructure usage.
  • It will enrich users with prior information about traffic and reducing travel time as well as enhancing safety and comfort of commuters.
  • Accident Detection: The ITS can detect any accident and receive alerts to ensure that ambulance reaches the spot within 10-15 minutes.

Garo Hills

Geological Survey of India (GSI) explorers recently made a breakthrough, uncovering ancient fossils, estimated to be around 35-40 million years old, in Tolegre, South Garo Hills of Meghalaya.

Garo Hills

  • The Garo Hills form the western part of Meghalaya State and covers an area of approximately 8,000 sq km.
  • The range is part of the Meghalaya subtropical forests eco-region.
  • Situated close to the Indo-Bangladesh border, the Garo hills are part of the Patkai hill rangewhich extends across the Indo-Myanmar border. 
  • It is one of the wettest places in the world.
  • The region is drained by various tributaries of the Brahmaputra River.
  • Garo Hills comprises 5 districts; North Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, West Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, and South-West Garo Hills.
  • The Garo Hills are mostly dominated by the tribes known as Garos.

The Garos call themselves Achik-mande.

  1. Garos form the second largest tribe inthe state of Meghalaya.
  2. They are one of the lastremaining matrilineal tribes in the world.
  3. Their main festival is the Wangala festival, a harvest festival, which is predominantly celebrated by the Songsareks (those following the traditional religion of animism).
  4. Two mountain ranges, the Arabella range and the Tura range, passthrough the Garo Hills, formingthe great Balpakram valley in between.
  5. Balpakram area is considered sacred for the Garocommunity due to their belief that the spirits of the dead sojourn here
  6. The highest pointin the Garo Hills is Nokrek Peak, with an elevation of 1412 m, which is covered by a thick film of lush forest.
  7. The region is home to the esteemed Nokrek National Park, protects a highly diverse plant and animal diversity. In 2009, the park was designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO.

Indian spices facing the heat

Why have countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong and the U.S. announced an investigation into possible contamination of spice mixes sold by MDH and Everest? How has the Spices Board of India responded? What has the U.S. FDA said?

Recently, there has been a notable rise in the rejection of Indian spice shipments in various countries.

Spices:

  1. Spices are defined as plant derived substances that add flavor to any dish.
  2. Spices are primarily used as food flavoring(cloves, black pepper) or to create variety. They are also used in perfume cosmetics (Saffron, sandalwood) and incense (cinnamon, styrax). At various periods, many spices were used in herbal medicine.

History & Evolution of Indian Spices:

  1. Ancient Origins: The use of spices in India can be traced back to ancient times (as far back as the Indus Valley Civilization) and used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
  2. Trade Routes: India has a strategic location on ancient trade routes, including the Silk Route, facilitated the exchange of spices and relations with other civilizations.
  3. Ayurvedic Influence: Many spices were believed to possess medicinal properties and were used to treat various ailments.
  4. Arab and Persian Influence: During the medieval period, they played a significant role in further disseminating Indian spices to the West, which then flourished and became luxury commodities in Europe.
  5. European Influence: In the 15th century, European powers, particularly the Portuguese, Dutch, and later the British, sought direct access to India’s spice-producing regions, which led to the exploration and establishment of maritime trade routes, contributing to the Age of Exploration.
  6. Colonial Powers: European colonial powers aimed to control the spice trade, leading to the establishment of trading posts and colonies in India.
  7. Competition for dominance in spice-producing regions was fierce among the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.

Monopoly of the British East India Company (EIC):

  1. The British EIC played a significant role in monopolizing the spice trade by controlling spice production, distribution, and trade routes.
  2. The British introduced large-scale spice plantations, particularly in Kerala and Karnataka, focusing on spices like black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon for export.

Post-Independence:

  1. India continued to be a major player in the global spice market.
  2. India is known for producing a wide variety of spices due to its diverse climate and geography.
  3. Example: Spices like black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, turmeric, cumin, etc.
  4. Global Influence: The use of Indian spices is widespread in international markets and cooking.

Faced Allegations: 

  1. US Shipment Rejection: In the past six months, about one-third of Mahashian Di Hatti (MDH) Pvt Ltd’s spice shipments to the US were turned away due to salmonella contamination.
  2. Hong Kong’s Action: Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety suspended the sale of three MDH spice blends (Madras curry powder, Sambhar masala and curry powder masala) and Everest fish curry masala.
  3. Singapore and Hong Kong Suspensions: Both have suspended the sale of several products from both MDH and Everest Food Products Pvt Ltd due to alleged detection of a cancer-causing pesticide (ethylene oxide) in their products.
  4. Investigation on Contamination: Various countries (including Singapore, Hong Kong and the U.S.) have announced an investigation into possible contamination of spice mixes sold by top Indian brands.
  5. The complaints cite the presence of ethylene oxide, a toxic chemical used as a food stabilizer, beyond permissible limits.
  6. The international scrutiny has also raised a demand for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to ensure stringent quality checks on spices and curry powders sold in domestic markets.
  7. Controversies also arose for protein drinks, fruit juices, health drinks and imported Nestle baby products, drawing attention to regulatory lapses and heightening health concerns.
  8. Consumers are increasingly questioning the safety and quality of trusted brands.

India’s Response to Spice Contamination:

  1. Spice Board of India Initiatives: It has initiated mandatory testing of products shipped abroad and is reportedly working with exporters to identify the root cause of contamination.
  2. Inspection: Thorough inspections at exporter facilities are also underway to ensure adherence with regulatory standards.
  3. Preventing Measures: Preventing ethylene oxide (EtO) contamination by voluntary testing of EtO during raw and final stages; EtO treated products to be stored separately; to identify EtO as a hazard and incorporate critical control points in hazard analysis.
  4. FSSAI Action: The FSSAI has directed state regulators to collect samples of major spice brands, including MDH and Everest, to test for the presence of EtO.
  5. It also plans to carry out a nationwide surveillance in 2024-25, for fruit and vegetables, salmonella in fish products, spice and culinary herbs, fortified rice and milk and milk products.

 

International Organization for Standardization (ISO):

  • It is an international standard development organizationcomposed of representatives from the national standards organizations of member countries.
  • ISO officially came into existence in 1947.

Spices Market of India:

  • Status: India is the world’s biggest exporter, producer and consumer of spices, and its domestic market for the products was valued at $10.44 billion in 2022.
  • India produces 75 varieties out of 109 varieties, listed by  the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
  • Export: The top three importers of India’s curry powders and mixtures, in the fiscal year 2022-23, include the U.S. (₹196.2 crore), U.A.E (₹170.6 crore) and U.K. (₹124.9 crore).
  • These are followed by Saudi Arabia, Australia, Bangladesh, Oman, Canada, Qatar and Nigeria.
  • Overall, China, U.S. U.A.E, Bangladesh and Thailand are the top importers of all spices and spice mixes originating from India.
  • Beyond MDH and Everest, other major manufacturers include Madhusudan Masala, NHC Foods and consumer giants Tata Consumer Products and ITC.
  • Major Exported Spices:
  • Pepper, cardamom, chilli, ginger, turmeric, coriander, cumin, celery, fennel, fenugreek, garlic, nutmeg & mace, curry powder, spice oils and oleoresins.
  • Statistics for 2023 and 2024
  • In 2023, India’s exports for spices were around US$ 3.73 billion.
  • In 2023- 2024 (till feb), India’s exports for spices were around US$ 3.67 billion.
  • Largest Spices Producing Indian States:
  • Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Government Initiatives for Growth of Spices Production in India:

Export Development & Promotion: This was an initiative of the Spices Board of India to promote spices of Indian brand, set up infrastructure in spice growing centers and to support exporters to use advanced technology and upgrade the existing technology.

Significance of Spices for India:

Economic Growth:

  1. Export: India is one of the world’s largest spice exporters, and its spices are in high demand globally. India exports its spices to more than 150 countries, with the US, China, Vietnam, UAE, and Malaysia being some of the largest markets.
  2. Employment: The spices sector provides livelihoods to millions of farmers, traders, and laborers involved in its cultivation, processing and marketing.
  3. Value Addition: India has moved up the value chain from exporting raw spices to offering value-added products like spice oils, oleoresins, culinary pastes, and ready-to-use spice mixes, among others.
  4. Cultural Significance:
  5. Cultural Heritage: Spices have a rich cultural heritage in India. They have been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries, used not only in cuisine but also in traditional medicine, rituals, etc.
  6. Health Benefits: Turmeric is valued for its anti-inflammatory properties, and ginger is used to aid digestion.
  7. Spice Blends: Spice blends like garam masala and curry powder are at the heart of Indian cooking and are carefully crafted combinations of spices that lend distinctive flavors to dishes.
  8. Regional Variations: Spices play a central role in defining regional cuisines and adding depth to local flavors.

Spices Board of India:

  1. Establishment: It is the statutory organization constituted on 26th February 1987, under the Spices Board Act 1986.
  2. It was formed with the merger of the erstwhile Cardamom Board and Spices Export Promotion Council.
  3. Headquarter: Kochi.
  4. Mandate: Spices Board (Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India) is the flagship organization for the development and worldwide promotion of Indian spices.
  5. The Board is an international link between the Indian exporters and the importers abroad.
  6. Setting up of Spices Parks: The board started establishing eight crop-specific Spices Parks in key production areas and market hubs.

Objective: 

  • To help farmers in getting better prices and wide market access for their crops.
  • To create a comprehensive system for spice cultivation, post harvesting, processing, value edition, and storage of spices.
  • Spice Complex Sikkim: An initiative to help farmers and other stakeholders in the state by providing financial assistance for facilitating and demonstrating common processing and value addition in spices.
  • Establishment of Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH): It is a subsidiary body of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, which is a joint initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • The Codex Alimentarius Commission is responsible for setting international food standards to ensure the safety, quality, and fairness of food trade.
  • India has been a member since 1964.

Challenges faced by the Indian Spices Sector:

Economic Concerns:

  • Immediate Risk: Delhi-based think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) said that nearly $700 million worth of exports are at stack due to regulatory actions in critical markets.
  • China’s Impact: If China follows Hong Kong, Indian exports could see a “dramatic downturn”. This could affect exports valued at $2.17 billion – about 51.1% of the country’s global spice exports.
  • EU’s Influence: It could further worsen if the European Union, which it states, “regularly rejects Indian spice consignments over quality issues”, follows suit.
  • Total Potential Losses: The impact could be an additional $2.5 billion, bringing the total potential losses to 58.8% of global exports.
  • Quality & Standard Maintenance: One of the major challenges in the spices sector is maintaining high-quality standards and meeting the stringent pesticide residue norms of importing countries.
  • Food Safety Concerns: Food safety is a paramount concern for consumers worldwide, particularly in developed nations where stringent regulations ensure product safety. Indian spice exporters encounter challenges in assuring consumers of the safety and hygiene of their products.
  • More than seven in 10 Indians are worried about the quality and safety of the spices they consume, according to a recent Local Circles survey that documented responses from 12,300 people across 293 districts.
  • Almost 36% of them “had no confidence” that the FSSAI had the capacity or willingness to uphold its mandate.
  • Traceability and Transparency: The fragmented nature of India’s spice supply chain presents challenges in achieving full traceability and transparency. Lack of standardized documentation, inadequate record-keeping practices, and informal trade channels hinder Indian exporters’ ability to provide verifiable traceability data.
  • The absent accountability and consequences often mean enforcement agencies fail to penalize unscrupulous food operators, which fuels the issue.
  • Under Section 59 of the FSS Act, food businesses found guilty of selling, storing or manufacturing sub-standard foods can be penalized with a ₹3 lakh penalty and a three-month jail term.
  • Tariffs & Trade Barriers: Tariffs and trade barriers imposed by developed countries pose significant obstacles for Indian spice exporters. Despite being a major producer and exporter of spices, India faces stiff competition from other exporting nations.
  • Price Volatility & Competition: The global spice market is highly competitive and Indian exporters often face challenges related to price volatility, influenced by factors such as crop yield, weather conditions, and currency fluctuations.
  • Operational and Logistic Barriers: Many companies struggle to trace ingredients, especially raw agricultural commodities, due to the lack of standardised record keeping and intentional food fraud.
  • This prevents manufacturers from assessing potential risks, compromising the safety of the entire food supply chain.
  • At least 10 States/Union Territories lack government or private notified food testing labs, as mandated under the FSS Act.
  • Societal Impact: In the event of potential losses, farmers of such crops too could find themselves at the receiving end. Such instances will burden the farmer.

Health Concerns:

  1. MDH and Everest’s spice mixes allegedly contain high levels of a prohibited pesticide called ethylene oxide (EtO). 
  2. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)has banned the use of EtO and earlier flagged EtO contamination in Indian spices.
  3. The improper and excessive use of EtO may leave behind residues, causingtoxic and even carcinogenic compounds to form, thus contaminating the product.
  4. Long-term exposure to ethylene oxide is associated with cancers including lymphoma and leukaemia.

Ethylene Oxide (EtO):

  • EtO is a colourless, flammable and a remarkable gas that was originally intended for sterilising medical devices.
  • It is used as a chemical in industrial settings, agriculture, and as a sterilising agent in food products,including spices, dried vegetables and other commodities.
  • The chemical provides life to the spice industry as it reduces microbial contamination, and in turn, extends products’ shelf life and makes their storage safe.
  • The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)classifies the ethylene oxide (chemical) as a Group 1 carcinogen.

Way Forward:

  • Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) & Organic Cultivation: To address quality and standard issues, there is a need to focus on GAP and organic cultivation for spices.
  • Good Agricultural Practices:It requires production of good quality spices by adopting good agricultural practices, using the correct quantity of water, soil, improved variety of seeds, fertilizer, approved pesticide, and the right crop pattern.
  • Use of sanitary practices at harvesting, storage, and transportation also help to avoid cross-contamination at these stages.
  • Technologies like cold plasma, pulsed light sterilisation, and high-pressure processing are innovative non-chemical methods that can effectively reduce microbial load without leaving harmful residues.
  • Strict Regulations & Safety Checks: To address the arising mistrust around FSSAI, there is a need for stricter regulatory measures and transparency in food production and safety industry standards.
  • There should be a commitment to proactive monitoring and enforcement,rather than reactive responses to individual incidents.
  • There is a need to regularly update food safety standards to align with global practices,and improve information flow to food industries so that they better comply with regulations.
  • Adopt Alternatives to Ethylene Oxide in Food Processing: Exploring safer chemical alternatives that have similar antimicrobial properties without carcinogenic risks is crucial.
  • Substances such as ozone, hydrogen peroxide, or heat treatments could serve as potential replacements for ethylene oxide in certain applications.
  • Adequate Investment: By prioritizing investments in quality infrastructure, implementing stringent food safety measures, enhancing traceability and transparency, and aligning with market trends, Indian spice exporters can overcome these hurdles and unlock the vast potential of developed markets for India’s rich array of spices.
  • To support and achieve $ 10 billion exports by FY 2027,Indian spices should be the torchbearer for agro products to boost the prominence of ‘Brand India’ worldwide and require an annual growth rate of 19.5%.
  • Sustainability:As global awareness about environmental issues and sustainability grows, there is an opportunity for India to expand its share in the organic spices market.
  • There is a need to implement sustainable farming practices that can also help preserve biodiversity and reduce environmental impact.
  • Market Diversification:Exploring new markets and creating demand for lesser-known spices is required and could help in reducing dependence on traditional markets.

Electrolysers

Investing in a homegrown electrolyser manufacturing infrastructure is anticipated to drive down the price of green hydrogen and enhance India’s competitive edge.

Electrolysers

It is an apparatus that produces hydrogen through a chemical process (electrolysis) capable of splitting water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen molecules by using electricity.

Working

  • An electrolyser consists of a conductive electrode stack separated by a membrane to which a high voltage and current is applied.
  • This causes an electric current in the water which causes it to break down into its components: hydrogen and oxygen.
  • The oxygen generated in parallel is released into the atmosphere or can be stored for later use as a medical or industrial gas in some cases.
  • The hydrogen is stored as a compressed gas or liquefied for use in industry or in hydrogen fuel cells which can power transport vehicles such as trains, ships and even aircraft.

Types of Electrolysers

  • Alkaline electrolysers:Alkaline electrolysis is a mature and commercially available technology used primarily by the fertiliser and chlorine industries.
  • It presently accounts for almost two-thirds of the global electrolyser capacity.
  • It uses thick membranes and nickel-based electrodes.
  • Proton exchange membrane(PEM) electrolysers: It operates at high pressure, due to the use of thin per fluoro sulfonic acid(PFSA) membranes.
  • However, the PFSA acidic environment makes it necessary to use gold and titanium plated electrodes and metals such as platinum, iridium, and ruthenium as catalysts.
  • They are the most popular because they produce high-purity hydrogen and are easy to cool.
  • Solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) electrolysers: They utilise heat to make hydrogen from steam and are best placed where there is a heat source available (nuclear or industrial facilities).
  • They operate at high temperatures (500 – 850degrees).
  • Anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysers: They operate at significantly lower temperatures of 50 – 60 degrees.
  • They combine the less harsh conditions of alkaline electrolysers with the simplicity and high efficiency of PEM electrolysers

New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on Climate Finance and why is it so important

Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) have made new submissions for the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG). 

  • Climate Finance Discussions: As countries prepare for 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) to the UNFCCC, which will take place in Azerbaijan in November 2024, initial discussions on the central issue of climate finance are on the horizon.
  • Ninth Technical Expert Dialogue (TED 9): In Cartagena, Colombia, the TED 9 and the first meeting under the Ad Hoc Work Programme (AHWP) took place from April 23 to 26, 2024.

Need for Climate Finance:

  1. Finance as a Crucial Enabler of Climate Action: Developing countries, small island nations, and the world’s least developed countries are bearing the brunt of climate change caused by the developed nations.
  2. In a world experiencing frequent extreme weather events, they are compelled to adapt and mitigate their way through the crisis.
  3. Disproportional Impact on Developing countries: The economic impacts of climate disasters are considerably more severe for poorer countries, making it crucial to establish a financial target that addresses their needs and promotes climate justice.
  4. Advancing Climate Justice: Arriving at a goal that best serves the needs of these countries is thus significant for advancing climate justice.

What is the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG)?

  • About:A NCQG also known as the post-2025 climate finance goal,will be negotiated with a baseline of $100 billion per year, considering the needs and priorities of developing countries.
  • Background:In 2009, developed countries committed to providing ‘new and additional’ financial resources amounting to about $30 billion to developing countries between 2010 and 2012. 
  • They also made a commitment of jointly mobilizing $100 billion every year by 2020 for the same. 
  • Extending the $100 Billion Climate Finance Goal:In 2015, this goal of collective mobilization of $100 billion by developed countries was extended to 2025.
  • It was also decided that a new climate finance goal would have to be decided prior to 2025, amounting toat least $100 billion per year, and ‘taking into account the needs and priorities of developing countries. 
  • This is the NCQG, also called the post-2025 climate finance goal / new goal.

Significance of NCQG:

  1. Discrepancy Between Current Climate Finance and Developing Countries’ Needs: The quantum of $100 billion is inadequate compared to the climate finance needs of developing countries, which, by varying estimates, range from $1-2.4 trillion per year until 2030.
  2. (The latter is an estimate just for Emerging Markets and Developing Economies, making the total funding needed by including that for poorer countries possibly far higher.)
  3. Unmet Targets and Mobilization Efforts:The goal of $100 billion was not a negotiated one which has not been met in any year since its announcement.
  4. The latest estimates show that developed countries mobilized $89.6 billion in 2021 for developing countries.

Progress Made for NCQG: Nine Technical Expert Dialogues (TED) have been held over the last two years, discussing a range of options for the elements linked to the formation of the new goal, including:

  • Time frames: Whether the new goal should have a short-term time period (2025-29), in line with cycles of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of developing countries or longer.
  • Structure: To decide whether the goal should be a single quantified figure with a decided amount of money
  • Or if the goal must be framed in terms of a share of a country’s gross domestic product / gross national income with options for ‘mobilizing’ funds.
  • The goal should have annual targets and sub-goals pertaining to thematic areas (mitigation, adaptation)
  • Or an inspirational goal aiming to make ‘all’ finance flows consistent with low-emissions development.
  • Quantum: Options for how to decide the quantum of the goal have also been discussed.
  • These range from a bottom-up approach based on the cost estimates of developing country needs, to determining the quantum based on the range of contributors (developed countries, private actors, any others identified).
  • Additionally, options for what sources and instruments should be used have also been discussed.
  • Qualitative Elements: Whether the type of finance (concessional, grant based, public or private) should be included by way of guiding principles, or a clearly delineated objective have emerged.
  • Transparency: Existing frameworks such as the Paris Agreement), or a host of new modes of reporting and tracking have been considered to track the progress.

Commission on Population and Development

The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations and the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund is organizing event titled “Localizing the SDGs: Women in Local Governance in India Lead the Way” during the 57th Session of the Commission on Population and Development (CPD57).

Commission on Population and Development

  • It was established by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 1946, which was renamed as the Commission on Population and Development by the General Assembly in 1994.
  • Members:It is composed of 47 member countries.
  • Term:Member countries are elected by the Economic and Social Council for a period of four years on the basis of geographic distribution.
  • It was constituted as a three-tiered intergovernmental mechanism that plays the primary role in the follow-up to the implementation of the programme of action at the national, regional and international levels and advise the Council thereon.
  • The meetings of commission were held typically every two or three years until 1994, after which it was held once a year.

United Nations Population Fund

  1. It is an international development agency created in 1968 to support the execution of projects and programmes in the area of population and sexual and reproductive health.
  2. In 1987, it was officially renamed as the United Nations Population Fund but the original abbreviation UNFPA (United Nations Fund for Population Activities) was retained.
  3. It is not directly responsible for the collection of primary statistics; it plays an important role in the technical and financial support of statistical activities in countries, such as population censuses and thematic surveys etc.

Government hosts ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon in New Delhi to celebrate International Sun Day

All-India Intra-School Solar Art Competition Solar to be held

The Government of India joined the global community in commemorating International Sun Day today, 3rd May, 2024, as an annual reminder of the significant benefits of solar energy in fostering a greener and healthier planet.

On this day, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, organized a ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi. The ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon, featuring 3 km and 5 km races, was designed to raise awareness about the pivotal role of solar power in mitigating climate change and promoting a cleaner and healthier future for all.

  • The Marathon expressed the nation’s steadfast commitment to solar energy and environmental sustainability. On the occasion, Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Shri Bhupinder S. Bhalla said: “This event underscores our dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions and highlights the importance of solar power in our journey towards environmental stewardship.
  • The Marathon aligns perfectly with the Government’s vision to promote physical fitness and well-being, wherein we encouraged citizens to embrace an active lifestyle while championing the cause of renewable energy.
  • We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants whose enthusiasm and support made this event a resounding success. We look forward to building upon this momentum and establishing it as an annual tradition.”

Solar Stops in six cities to educate citizens on significance of solar energy

  1. Another highlight of the International Sun Day celebrations was Solart Stops — kiosks boasting a diverse array of elements that bring out the significance of solar energy.
  2. The 12 captivating installations have been set up at prominent malls in six Indian cities, namely Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Vadodara, Guwahati, Varanasi and Chennai. Serving as focal points, Solar Stops highlight the innovative and eco-friendly aspects of solar energy, inviting attendees to learn and engage with the displays.

Solart: All-India Intra-School Solar Art Competition

  • On the occasion, the Ministry has also announced Solart, an All-India Intra-School Solar Art Competition, which would be an engaging and educational way to celebrate solar energy through artistic expressions, in recognition of International Sun Day.
  • The competition seeks to spark creativity and promote awareness of solar energy among school students across India. Winners, as adjudged by schools, will receive commendation certificates from the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy.
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