“OLIVE GREEN – GOING GREEN” INDIAN ARMY RECEIVES FIRST HYDROGEN BUS

1. Displaying a firm resolve towards finding green and sustainable transport solutions, the Indian Army has collaborated with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for demonstration trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus technology. The Indian Army is known for its commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
2. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Indian Army and the IOCL in presence of General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) and Mr Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman of Indian Oil. During the event, one Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus was received by the Indian Army. This marks the commencement of mutually beneficial partnership between Indian Army and IOCL. The MoU emphasised the commitment to fostering innovation and advancing sustainable transport solutions for the future.
3. Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology offers a clean and efficient alternative by converting Hydrogen gas into electricity through an electro-chemical process. The process leaves water vapour as the only by product, thus ensuring zero emission.
4. The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus has a seating capacity of 37 passengers. It promises an impressive mileage of 250-300 km on a full 30 kg onboard tank of Hydrogen fuel.
5. Notably, on 21^stMarch 2023, the Indian Army became the first government entity to ink an MoU with National Thermal Power Corporation Renewable Energy Limited for installation of Green Hydrogen based Microgrid Power Plants along the Northern Borders. A pilot project is being setup at Chushul, where a 200 Kilo Watt Green Hydrogen based Microgram will provide 24×7 clean electricity to troops deployed in inhospitable terrain and extreme climatic conditions.  
6. With a focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus endeavour between Indian Army and IOCL represents a significant stride and pave the way for a cleaner and greener transport solutions.

AI-MODERN APPLICATIONS

Recently, DD Kisan deployed two Artificial Intelligence anchors as part of the initiative to present the television channel in a new avatar.

AI Anchors: 

• The anchors have been named as ‘AI Krish’ and ‘AI Bhoomi’, and can speak in 50 Indian and foreign languages.
• These news anchors are a computer, which are exactly like a human, or rather, these can work like a human. They can read news 24 hours and 365 days without stopping or getting tired.
• The farmer viewers will be able to see these anchors in all the States of the country.
• These AI anchors will provide every necessary information about agricultural research happening in the country and at the global level, trends in agriculture mandis, changes in the weather, or any other information of government schemes.

Key facts about DD Kisan

1. It is the only TV channel in the country, which has been established by the Government of India and dedicated to the farmers. This channel was established on 26 May 2015.
2. The objective of establishing DD Kisan Channel
3. To always keep the farmers informed about the changes in weather, global and local markets etc., so that farmers can make appropriate plans in advance and take right decisions on time.
4. It is also working to bring forward the efforts of progressive farmers to all the people, with the aim of serving the agricultural and rural communityin the country and working towards creating an environment of holistic development by educating them.
5. DD Kisan channel is strengthening the three-dimensional concept of agriculture which includes balanced farming, animal husbandry and plantation.

Wind Shear

1. Wind Shear:The change in wind speed, wind direction, or both, over some distance.

Common Contexts

2. Turbulence: Airplane pilots often warn passengers about turbulence, which can be caused by sudden changes in wind speed or direction (wind shear).
3. Hurricanes:Focus is usually on vertical wind shear, which refers to how wind changes in speed and direction with height.

Types

Vertical Wind Shear: Present nearly everywhere on Earth. Winds typically move faster at higher altitudes than at the surface. Strength can vary and is crucial during hurricane season.

Horizontal Wind Shear: Occurs over a horizontal distance. Can cause rapid changes in wind direction and speed.

Role in Tropical Storms and Hurricanes Tropical Waves: Tropical storms start as a low-pressure system associated with thunderstorms over warm water. Warm air rises, drawing fuel for the storm, leading to rotation and intensification into a tropical storm or hurricane. Symmetry in Hurricanes: Hurricanes thrive when their vertical structure is symmetrical, allowing faster rotation and stronger storms. Impact of Wind Shear: Excessive vertical wind shear can disrupt the top of the storm, weakening wind circulation and the transport of heat and moisture, potentially tearing the hurricane apart. Examples and Effects Low-Level Jet Streams: Common examples of vertical wind shear. Frontal Systems and Sea Breezes: Examples of horizontal wind shear. Importance Understanding wind shear is crucial for aviation safety, weather forecasting, and managing the impacts of severe weather phenomena like hurricanes and tropical storms. Proper detection and response to wind shear can help mitigate risks associated with sudden changes in wind speed and direction.

El Nino’s and La Nina’s Influence on Wind Shear

Wind Shear and El Nino Increased Wind Shear: During El Nino years, wind shear tends to be stronger over the Atlantic during hurricane season. El Nino Events: Occur when sea surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean basin become significantly warmer than average. Western Pacific Ocean basin waters become cooler than average. These events happen every two to seven years and affect global weather patterns. Impact on Hurricanes Stronger Upper-Level Winds: During El Nino events, upper-level winds over the Atlantic are stronger, resulting in increased wind shear. Effect on Tropical Storms: The faster air flow in the upper troposphere increases wind speed with height, making the upper atmosphere less favorable for tropical storm development. Eastern North Pacific: Tends to have less wind shear during El Nino events. Case Example Hurricane Idalia (2023): Despite record warm sea surface temperatures and increased wind shear, Hurricane Idalia fought through the wind shear and hit Florida as a powerful Category 3 storm.

La Nina Influence Opposite of El Nino: La Nina, the opposite climate pattern, also occurs every two to seven years. More Active Hurricane Seasons: La Nina conditions allow for more active hurricane seasons, as seen during the record-breaking 2020 Atlantic hurricane season. Expected Development: La Nina conditions were expected to develop by fall 2024, with forecasts predicting another busy hurricane season.

Key Points

1. Multiple Factors: The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season highlighted that multiple factors influence the destructiveness of hurricanes.
2. Persistent Wind Shear: Vertical wind shear is a constant presence and will always be monitored by meteorologists.

Mount Ibu

1. Location:An active stratovolcano situated along the northwest coast of Halmahera Island in Indonesia.
2. Volcanic Activity:Part of a series of eruptions from various volcanoes across Indonesia.
3. Indonesia is located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur.
4. The country has 127 active volcanoes.

Stratovolcano

• A stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano, is a conical volcano built up by many layers (strata) of hardened lava and tephra.
• Unlike shield volcanoes, stratovolcanoes are characterized by a steep profile with a summit crater and periodic intervals of explosive eruptions and effusive eruptions, although some have collapsed summit craters called calderas.
• The lava flowing from stratovolcanoes typically cools and hardens before spreading far, due to high viscosity.
• The magma forming this lava is often felsic, having high-to-intermediate levels of silica (as in rhyolite, dacite, or andesite), with lesser amounts of less-viscous mafic magma.
• Stratovolcanoes are sometimes called “composite volcanoes” because of their composite stratified structure built up from sequential outpourings of erupted materials.
• They are among the most common types of volcanoes, in contrast to the less common shield volcanoes.
• Two famous examples of stratovolcanoes are Krakatoa in Indonesia, known for its catastrophic eruption in 1883, and Vesuvius in Italy, whose catastrophic eruption in AD 79 buried the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• In modern times, Mount St. Helens in Washington State, USA and Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines have erupted catastrophically, but with fewer deaths.

The Ring of Fire

1. Many volcanoes in the Ring of Fire were created through a process of subduction. And most of the planet’s subduction zones happen to be located in the Ring of Fire
2. It is a string of at least 450 active and dormant volcanoes that form a semi-circle, or horse shoe, around the Philippine Sea plate, the Pacific Plate, Juan de Fuca and Cocos plates, and the Nazca Plate.
3. There is a lot of seismic activity in the area.
4. 90 per cent of all earthquakes strike within the Ring of Fire

volcanoes in the Ring of Fire

1. The tectonic plates move non-stop over a layer of partly solid and partly molten rock which is called the Earth’s mantle.
2. When the plates collide or move apart, for instance, the Earth moves, literally.
3. Mountains, like the Andes in South America and the Rockies in North America, as well as volcanoes have formed through the collision of tectonic plates.
4. Many volcanoes in the Ring of Fire were created through a process of subduction. And most of the planet’s subduction zones happen to be located in the Ring of Fire

Indian meteorological Department (IMD) updated Long Range Forecast Outlook for the Southwest Monsoon Rainfall Season (June-September)2024

IMD released Monthly Rainfall and Temperature forecast for June 2024

Above normal rainfall of 106 % LPA likely during the Monsoon (June to September) season 2024
Positive Indian Ocean dipole conditions likely during Monsoon season

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) today updated its Long-Range Forecast Outlook for the Southwest Monsoon Rainfall Season (June–September) 2024. It also released the Monthly Rainfall and Temperature Forecast for June 2024 in a virtual media interaction today in New Delhi. Dr. Mritunjya Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology, presented the forecast.

Highlights of the Long-Range forecast

Quantitatively, the southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall over the country as a whole is likely to be     106% of the long period average (LPA) with a model error of ± 4%. Thus, Above Normal rainfall is most likely over the country as a whole during the monsoon season (June to September), 2024.

The southwest monsoon seasonal (June to September, 2024) rainfall is most likely to be above normal over Central India and South Peninsular India (>106% of LPA), normal over Northwest India (92-108% of LPA) and below normal over Northeast India (<94% of LPA).

The southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall over the Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ) consisting of most of the rainfed agriculture areas in the country is most likely to be Above Normal (>106% of LPA).

Above Normal rainfall is most likely over most parts of the country except many areas of northern part of Northwest India, Northeast India and eastern part of the Central India and adjoining areas of east India, where below normal to normal rainfall is most likely. Normal rainfall (92-108% of LPA) is most likely over the country as a whole during June, 2024. The above normal monthly rainfall is most likely over most areas of the south peninsula, and adjoining areas of central India and over isolated areas of Northwest and Northeast India. Below normal rainfall is most likely over many areas of northern and eastern parts of Northwest India and eastern part of Central India, and over some areas over Northeast India and southeastern part of South Peninsula. In June, above-normal monthly maximum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country, except many parts of the southern peninsular India, where normal to below-normal temperatures are most likely. Above-normal monthly minimum temperatures are likely across most parts of the country, except extreme northern parts of northwest India and a few pockets of east and northeast India, where normal to below-normal minimum temperatures are most likely. During June, above-normal heatwave days are likely over most areas of Northwest India and adjoining areas of Central India.

The strong El Niño conditions observed over equatorial Pacific in the beginning of this year have weakened rapidly into weak El Niño conditions and currently transitioning towards ENSO neutral conditions. The latest Climate model forecasts indicate ENSO-neutral conditions are likely to get established during the beginning of the monsoon season and La Niña conditions are likely to develop during the later part of the monsoon season.

At present, neutral Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) conditions are prevailing over the Indian Ocean. The latest forecasts from many global climate models indicate positive IOD conditions are likely to develop during the monsoon season

Kumaon Himalayas

Recently, the Supreme Court halted the 90 acres project in ecologically fragile and seismic-prone lower Himalayan ranges in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand.

Kumaon Himalayas:

1. It is the west-central section of the Himalayas in northern India.
2. Geographical boundary:It lies between the Sutlej River in the west and the Kali River in the East.
3. It comprises part of the Siwalik Range in the south and part of the Great Himalayas in the north, lies largely within the state of Uttarakhand, northwest of Nepal.
4. Highest peaks of this region:Nanda Devi and Kamet.
5. Lakes of this region:Naini Lake, Sattal, Bhimtal, Naukuchiya Tal
6. It is home to some of the major hill stations such as Nainital, Ranikhet, and Almora.
7. It is also the melting pot of tribal/indigenous people – Tharus, Bhutiyas, Jaunsaris, Buksas, and Rajiswhose.
8. Concern: It is an ecologically fragile and seismic-prone area.

Key facts about Shiwalik Range

1. Shivalik Hills are a sub-Himalayan Mountain Range running 1,600 km long from the Teesta River, Sikkim, through Nepal and India, into northern Pakistan.
2. The range runs parallel with the Himalayan system from Haridwar on the Ganges to the banks of the Beas River. The hills have an average height of 900 to 1,200 m.
3. They are chiefly composed of low sandstone and conglomerate hills, the solidified and up-heaved detritus of the great range in their rear, the intermediate valley lying between the outer hills and the Mussoorie.

The Indo-Pacific region has become a significant area of geopolitical tension, particularly due to the aggressive naval activities of China in the South China Sea (SCS).

Countries with strategic interests in the region, such as the United States and its allies, are increasingly taking steps to counter the perceived threats posed by China’s military maneuvers. A notable development in this context is the formation of a new security grouping, informally known as ‘Squad’, comprising the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines. This coalition aims to bolster maritime security, particularly in response to China’s assertive actions against the Philippines, a key US treaty ally.

Squad, Security, and the South China Sea

1. The South China Sea has long been a flashpoint for geopolitical conflict, with Beijing’s assertive attempts to control contested maritime areas escalating tensions. These aggressive moves have primarily targeted the Philippines, leading to frequent confrontations. The West Philippine Sea, a portion of the SCS over which the Philippines claims jurisdiction, has become a focal point for these disputes. In 2016, the Philippines sought arbitration against China’s expansive claims in the SCS, resulting in a ruling that rejected China’s nine-dash line as a basis for maritime entitlement. Despite this, China’s activities in the area have continued unabated, leading to physical altercations that have further strained relations.
2. Recently, a clash between Chinese and Philippine forces resulted in injuries and damage to Philippine vessels, prompting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to vow stronger countermeasures against Chinese actions. This incident underscored the urgent need for enhanced maritime security cooperation. As a result, the Defense Ministers of the US, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines convened in Hawaii to discuss collective measures to safeguard maritime navigation and deter Chinese aggression. This meeting marked the formalization of the ‘Squad’ grouping, with subsequent meetings reaffirming their commitment to regional stability.

Marcos Jr.’s Strategic Shift and US Alignment

1. President Marcos Jr., since assuming office in 2022, has shifted the Philippines’ approach towards China, aligning more closely with the United States. This realignment is evident in Manila’s active participation in the US-Japan-Philippines trilateral summit held in Washington in April 2024. Furthermore, the May 2024 meeting led by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin highlighted the collective resolve of the Squad members to enhance maritime cooperation and counter Chinese obstruction in the SCS. This gathering built on the initial discussions from their first meeting in June 2023, demonstrating a sustained effort to address the security challenges posed by China.
2. Besides participating in the Squad, the Philippines continues to engage in other strategic alliances. These include the US-Japan-Philippines trilateral and its bilateral defense partnerships with the US and Japan. Australia’s involvement, although currently limited to joint military exercises and maritime cooperation activities, signifies a broader commitment to regional security.

The Context and Role of Squad in Maritime Security

1. The emergence of the Squad should be viewed in light of the limitations of existing multilateral institutions like ASEAN, which have struggled to effectively address Chinese coercion. ASEAN’s reluctance to openly condemn China’s actions has necessitated the formation of new, more flexible frameworks for maritime security. The Squad, therefore, represents a complementary approach to strengthening security in the West Philippine Sea through a network of bilateral and trilateral arrangements.
2. While the Squad is a relatively new and geographically focused entity, its creation is part of a broader trend of minilateralism in the Indo-Pacific. Minilateral groupings like the Squad and the existing Quad (comprising the US, Japan, India, and Australia) reflect the need for specific, targeted collaborations based on shared security concerns and strategic interests. Unlike the broader Quad, which addresses a wide range of Indo-Pacific security issues, the Squad concentrates on the immediate challenges in the SCS, particularly the West Philippine Sea.

Minilateralism and the Logic of Maritime Security

1. The rise of minilateral groupings like the Squad can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the vast and diverse maritime geography of the Indo-Pacific necessitates specialized focus on specific sub-regions. Countries naturally prioritize areas that directly impact their security and economic interests. For instance, the US focuses primarily on the Pacific, while India prioritizes the Indian Ocean. The Philippines, facing direct threats in the SCS, has a vested interest in securing its immediate maritime periphery.
2. Secondly, minilateral groupings allow for more cohesive and committed cooperation among a smaller number of players. These groups can align more easily on shared threats and objectives, facilitating effective collaboration. The Squad, involving security treaty partners of the US, exemplifies this principle, with each member having a direct stake in countering Chinese aggression in the SCS.
3. Minilateralism also offers strategic advantages for smaller and developing countries, enabling them to enhance their security without becoming entangled in broader great-power rivalries. By focusing on specific regional challenges, these countries can develop tailored security architectures that address their unique needs and circumstances.

• The formation of the Squad underscores the evolving nature of security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. As multilateral institutions like ASEAN struggle to address regional security threats, minilateral groupings offer a viable alternative for countries seeking to bolster their maritime defenses. The rise of such configurations reflects the diverse and complex strategic environment of the Indo-Pacific, where nations must navigate a web of alliances and partnerships to safeguard their interests.
• The Squad, with its focused mandate and shared threat perceptions, provides a model for how smaller groupings can effectively address specific regional security challenges. This approach not only enhances the security of its members but also contributes to the broader stability of the Indo-Pacific region. As geopolitical contests continue to unfold, the role of minilateralism in shaping regional security dynamics will likely become increasingly significant.

Mundra Port

Mundra Port, the flagship facility of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, recently completed 25 years of operations.

Mundra Port:

1. It is the largest private portand the largest container port in India.
2. Location: It is located on the north shores of Gulf of Kutch near Mundra, Kutch district, Gujarat.
3. It is a deep-draft, all-weather port.
4. It is also a special economic zone (SEZ).
5. As much as 33 percent of India’s container traffic flows through the port.
6. Ownership: It is run by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ),which is India’s largest commercial ports operator and accounts for nearly one-fourth of the country’s cargo movement.

Handling Capacity:

1. With a capacity of 260 MMT, the port handles over 155 MMT (FY 2022-23), which constitutes nearly 11% of India’s maritime cargo.
2. The port has 26 berths and two single-point moorings, which allow it to accommodate a wide range of vessels.
3. The port handles a wide variety of cargo,including containers, dry bulk, break bulk, liquid cargo, and automobiles.

• It also has the country’s largest coal import terminal, which facilitates faster cargo evacuation with minimal turnaround time.
• Mundra Port’s rail is connected to the national rail network, and cargo can be handled for any location in India.

MSC Anna

1. It is the largest container shipever to call at an Indian port.
2. The docked vessel, MSC Anna, has a length of 399.98 metres- roughly the length of four football fields – and is among the largest container ships, with a capacity to carry 19,200 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units).
3. Its arrival draftis 16.3 metres, which can be accommodated only at Adani Ports, Mundra, as no other port in India is capable of berthing a deep-draft vessel.

Portion of Hampi’s Virupaksha temple collapses: What is its history and the threats it faces today?

• A nationally protected monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, here is what to know about the Virupaksha temple, its history, significance, and the restoration work underway.

A portion of the Virupaksha temple in Karnataka collapsed due to torrential rains recently.

Portion of Hampi’s Virupaksha temple collapses

1. The temple’spavilion or the saalu mantap was damaged as a section of pillars holding it collapsed.
2. Three metres of the 19-metre-long pavilion,consisting of four pillars, are damaged due to heavy rain.
3. Reason: The pavilion was constructed using stone pillars and were subject to very heavy rains in the past, due to which foundation of the pavilion lost its strengthgradually, leading to the collapse.

Virupaksha Temple

1. Origin and Evolution: The Virupaksha Temple originated in the 7th century AD, making it the oldest and principal temple in Hampi.
2. It gained prominence and underwent extensive expansion in the form of the present temple complex during 14^th century under the patronage of Vijayanagara Empire (1336 to 1646).
3. Presiding Deity: Lord Shiva.
4. Built by: This temple complex was constructed by Lakkan Dandesha, a nayaka (chieftain) of the ruler, Paruda Deva Raya IIduring the Vijayanagara rule.
5. Location: The temple is located located on the south bank of the river Tungabhadra, in Hampi, Vijaynagara district, Karnataka.
6. UNESCO Recognition: It belongs to the Group of Monuments at Hampi, declared as UNESCOs WHS.

Virupaksha Temple Features: 

1. It is also known as the Pampapathi temple and is the oldest temple in Hampi. The main temple is east facing and has two large courtyards, one leading to the other.
2. Mathematical Construction: The Temple’s construction and decoration shows repeated patterns which depict the concept of fractals. The temple is triangular in shape.
3. Ranga Mandapa: Krishnadevaraya was instrumental in building the central pillared hall (Ranga Mandapa) in 1510 AD and the gateway tower, which provides access to the inner courtyard of the temple.
4. Annual Chariot Festival: The month of December witness the betrothal and marriage ceremonies of Lord Virupaksha and Goddess Pampa with the annual Chariot festival held.

Architecture Style: Dravidian temple architecture

• It is characterised bygrand gopurams (towering gateways) depicting various deities, mythological scenes and animals, the shikhara towering over the sanctum sanctorum, and the intricate carvings and pillared halls, an enclosed wall compound and water reservoir.

Dombivli blasts: Boiler was unregistered, used highly reactive peroxides

Recently, An Incident of multiple blast in boilers has occurred at a chemical factory in Thane District due to which more than 10 people lost their life and around 68 individuals were injured.

Mumbai Boiler Blast

1. The explosion occurred in a boiler at Amudan chemicals Private limited, a company that manufactures food colours.
2. The Explosives Act, 1884 and the Explosive Substances Act, 1908 have been invoked to prosecute the accused due to the presence of reactive peroxide chemicals that caused the incident.
3. Boiler in the factory was not registered under the India boiler regulations 1950.

The Explosives Act of 1884: 

• It was enacted to regulate the manufacture, storage, use, sale, import and export of explosives.
• It sets safety standards for handling, transportation and storage of explosives to prevent accidents.

The Explosive Substances Act, 1908:

It contains provisions defining explosive substances as well as special categories of explosive substances, which include compounds like RDX. 

The Act provides for punishment in relation to explosives endangering life or property, as well as for attempts to cause explosion or possession of explosives with malicious intent.

Peroxides

Peroxide chemicals are organic compounds that contain a peroxide functional group, which is characterized by two oxygen atoms bonded together.

1. It can be represented as R−O−O−R, where ‘R’ can be any element.
2. The bond between two oxygen atoms (O−O) is known as a peroxide group or peroxy group.
3. Example: Hydrogen peroxide, benzoyl peroxide.

Properties:

1. Peroxides have weaker bonds, making them more reactiveand allowing other chemicals to change their structure.
2. Peroxides can be dangerous and can explode when exposed to heator Friction.

Boilers 

A boiler is a closed vessel that heats water to produce steam, commonly used for heating rooms and heavy fuel oils on ships.

Legislation & Regulation on Boilers:

1. Indian Boilers Act-1923: The Indian Boilers Act-1923 aims to ensure the safety of life and property from steam boiler explosions and standardize registration and inspection procedures for boilers in India.
2. Features of the Indian Boilers Act-1923:
3. Owners must apply for boiler inspections, and inspections are conducted according to the Indian Boilers Regulation-1950.

Certificates are issued for operation for up to 12 months if the boiler passes inspection.

• Repairs are required for boilers that do not meet safety standards.

Industrial Accidents

The growth of industries has led to an increase in the risk of occurrence of incidents associated with hazardous chemicals (HAZCHEM) and hazardous materials (HAZMAT).

1. These events occur due to mishaps or failures in industry and negligence in following international codes and standards for chemical handling which affects the industrial functioning, and productivity.
2. Chemical/ industrial accidents are significant and have a long-term impact on the community and environment.
3. It leads to injuries, pain, suffering, loss of lives, damage to property and environment.

Factors Contribute to the Industrial Accidents

1. Deficiencies in safety management systems & Inadequate regulation.
2. Human errors: Due to lack of training and awareness & because of informal workforce that may compromise safety standards.
3. Equipment and machinery failure
4. Negligence in processing & Handling of chemicals.
5. lack of awareness of how to act when a mishap occurs and poor investment in worker safety.
6. lacks a comprehensive database of chemicals used by industry and the risks associated with them.
7. Major Industrial Incident in India

NDMA estimates that the country reported 130 chemical accidents in the last decade, which claimed more than 250 lives.

1. The horrors of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy in 1984 – Methyl Isocyanate leak
2. Jaipur oil depot fire of 2009.
3. Thane explosion of 2016.
4. Visakhapatnam Styrene gas leak of 2020.
5. Neyveli Boiler Blast 2020.
6. Blaze at a natural gas well in Tinsukia in 2020.

WIPO Treaty, a big win for India and Global South

WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources

1. History: The diplomatic conference marked the final stage of the negotiations that began in 2021. The treaty is borne of a proposal by Colombia in 1999.
2. This is the 27th treaty under WIPO and the first in the last 10 years.
3. First WIPO Treaty:It is the first WIPO treaty to include provisions specifically for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.
4. This is important because under current laws, while genetic resources themselves cannot be patented, inventions developed using them can be protected.
5. Role of India in Treaty Negotiations: India played a critical role during these negotiations. India was the only country which prepared a detailed paper on the base text for treaty negotiations.

Significance of the WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources for India Rich Biodiversity and Traditional Knowledge: The new WIPO treaty is important to India as the country holds 7-8 per cent of global biodiversity and a rich repertoire of knowledge based on these genetic resources Enhancing Protection: Strengthens Legal Safeguards for India’s Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge against Global Misuse. For example, the patent rights for turmeric, a tropical herb native to East India and widely used as a medicine and food ingredient, were awarded to the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Additionally, India has raised concerns over patents being awarded for Neem and Indian Basmati rice in the past. Global Acknowledgment: The treaty will incorporate India’s Traditional Knowledge into the International Intellectual Property Framework.

Key Provisions regarding the WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Associated Traditional Knowledge Disclosure Requirement: It requires patent applicants to disclose the country of origin or source when their application involves genetic resources. Disclosure of Traditional Knowledge Providers: If traditional knowledge linked to genetic resources is involved, the applicant must identify the Indigenous Peoples or local community that provided it. Genetic Resources in Patents: Genetic resources, present in entities like medicinal plants and agricultural crops, are frequently used in patented inventions, even though the resources themselves cannot be patented. Establishment of Legal Framework: Once 15 contracting parties have ratified it, the Treaty will establish an international legal framework. This framework will require patent applicants to disclose the origin of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge used in their inventions.

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a UN specialised agency located in Geneva, Switzerland, set up by the WIPO Convention in 1967. Aim: Its goal is to guide the creation of an international intellectual property (IP) system that promotes innovation and creativity for everyone’s benefit. WIPO Membership and Observers: WIPO has 193 member states Palestine has permanent observer status. WIPO meetings also include 281 NGOs, 47 IGOs, 17 UN system organizations, and 10 IP organizations as official observers. India joined WIPO in 1975. Functions: It serves as a worldwide policy platform where governments, intergovernmental organizations, industry groups, and civil society convene to tackle emerging IP issues. Organizational Structure: Member states and observers convene regularly in various standing committees and working groups. Within these forums, they negotiate adjustments and new regulations essential for keeping the international IP system aligned with a changing world. This ensures that the system remains dedicated to fostering innovation and creativity. Publications: The Global Innovation Index, compiled by INSEAD, Cornell University, and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in addition to other institutions, evaluates countries’ innovation capacity and success.

WIPO-Administered Treaties:

Name	Aim	Ratification Status of India
Budapest Treaty	All states party to the Treaty are obliged to recognize microorganisms deposited as a part of the patent procedure, irrespective of where the depository authority is located.	India has ratified the treaty.
WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty	The WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT) addresses the rights of two main groups in the digital realm:  Performers (such as actors, singers, musicians, etc.) and  Producers of phonograms (individuals or entities responsible for recording sounds).	India has become a party to this agreement.
Madrid Protocol for the International Registration of Marks	It Allows for the global registration of trademarks through a single application that can encompass multiple countries.	India has become a party to the protocol.
WIPO Copyright Treaty	It is a special agreement under the Berne Convention which deals with the protection of works and the rights of their authors in the digital environment.	India has ratified the treaty.

Kabak Yano Nyishi Tribe

Mountaineer and cricketer Kabak Yano etched her name in history recently by becoming the fifth woman from Arunachal Pradesh and the first woman from the Nyishi tribe to scale Mt. Everest.

Nyishi Tribe:

1. The Nyishi are the largest ethnic group in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. In Nishi, their traditional language, Nyi refers to “a man” and the word shi denotes “a being”, which combined together refers to a civilized human being.
3. The Nyishi language belongs to the Sino-Tibetan family; however, its origin is disputed.

 

Geographical Distribution:

1. They are concentrated in eight districts of Arunachal Pradesh, East Kameng, Pakke Kesang, Papum Pare, Lower Subansiri, Kamle, Kra Daadi, Kurung Kumey, and Upper Subansiri.
2. They also live in Sonitpur and the North Lakhimpur district of

• Their population of around 300,000makes them the most populous tribe in Arunachal Pradesh, closely followed by the combined tribes of the Adis and the Galos, who were the most populous in the 2001 census.
• The Nyishi support themselves with slash-and-burn agriculture and hunting and fishing. 
• Along with agriculture and allied activities, the Nyishis are experts in handicrafts such as weaving, cane and bamboo works, pottery, blacksmith, wood carving, carpentry, etc.

Religion:

• According to the 2011 Census, Nyishi follows Christian (31%), Hinduism (29%),and many still followthe indigenous Donyi Polo.

1. Donyi means the Sun, and Polo means the Moon,which are revered as the Ayu Donyi (Great Mother Sun) and Atu Polu (Great Father Moon).
2. Festivals:

• The Nyishi celebrates three major festivals, namely, Boori-Boot (February), Nyokum (February), and Longte (April).
• They celebrate and pleases the gods and goddesses for a good harvest, health, wealth, and prosperity.

1. Polygyny is prevalent among the Nyishi.
2. They trace their descent patrilineally and are divided into several clans.
3. One striking feature of Nyishi society is that it is neither based on a caste system nor stratified into classes, except for a loose type of social distinction which is not determined by birth or occupation.
4. Nyishis consider womenthe source of peace, progress and prosperity. According to them, the importance status of women increases and binds through an established ‘reciprocal marital exchange’ system in the society.

The Missing Links in IMEC: Insights from the Gaza War

• The recent geopolitical events, particularly the Gaza war, have exposed strategic and logistical challenges facing the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC).
• The signing of a significant bilateral contract between India and Iran for the operation of Chabahar Port on May 13, 2024, highlights India’s commitment to enhancing connectivity with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
• However, the Gaza war has revealed critical vulnerabilities and missing links in the IMEC project.

The Strategic Importance of Chabahar Port

On May 13, 2024, India and Iran signed a 10-year bilateral contract for the operation of Chabahar Port. The agreement, facilitated by India’s Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, is crucial not just as a bridge linking India with Iran, but also as a vital economic route connecting India with Afghanistan and Central Asian countries. This development is part of India’s broader strategy to enhance regional connectivity and economic integration.

IMEC: A Counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative

The India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) was launched on September 9, 2023, during the G-20 summit in New Delhi. It involves the European Union, France, Germany, India, Italy, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States. Developed under the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), IMEC aims to boost economic development by enhancing connectivity between Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe. The project is seen as a strategic counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Structure and Objectives of IMEC: IMEC comprises two separate corridors: an east corridor connecting India to the Arabian Gulf, and a northern corridor linking the Arabian Gulf to Europe. The corridor integrates existing maritime and road transport routes with a new railway network designed to provide a reliable and cost-effective ship-to-rail transit network for goods and services. Additionally, it includes plans for laying cables for electricity and digital connectivity, as well as pipelines for clean hydrogen export.

Key Ports and Routes: The IMEC corridor involves significant maritime and rail links:

1. Indian Ports: Kandla, Mumbai, and Mundra
2. UAE Ports:Fujairah, Jebel Ali, and Abu Dhabi
3. Saudi Arabia and Jordan: Rail-road link to the Mediterranean
4. European Ports: Haifa in Israel, Marseille in France, Messina in Italy, and Piraeus in Greece

This 4,800-kilometre-long corridor aims to secure regional supply chains, increase trade accessibility, and improve trade facilitation, potentially reducing the time and cost of transporting goods from India to Europe by 40% and 30%, respectively.

The Impact of the Gaza War

• The Gaza war, which began on October 7, 2023, less than a month after the IMEC announcement, has significantly affected the project’s progress. The conflict has highlighted the vulnerabilities and missing links in the IMEC, posing serious challenges to its implementation.

Disruptions and Threats

The war in Gaza has disrupted trade routes and exposed several strategic weaknesses:

1. Houthi Interference:Houthis in Yemen have blocked ships from Israel and its allies from accessing the Red Sea, forcing them to take longer routes around the Cape of Good Hope, thereby increasing shipping time and insurance costs.
2. Strait of Hormuz:Iran’s repeated threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical choke point for global crude oil and natural gas shipments, pose significant risks. Similar threats and actions were witnessed during the Persian Gulf Crisis in 2019.
3. Impact on Israeli Ports: Israel’s major ports, Eilat and Haifa, have suffered heavy losses due to disruptions in trade through the Red Sea and attacks by Hamas and its allies. The Adani Group-led consortium’s purchase of Haifa port in January 2023 has been impacted, with expansion plans put on hold due to the ongoing conflict.

Addressing the Missing Links in IMEC

To mitigate the risks highlighted by the Gaza war, alternative routes and partnerships need to be considered to ensure the stability and success of the IMEC project.

1. Oman: A Strategic Partner: Oman provides a strategic alternative to the ports in the UAE, which are vulnerable due to their location within the Persian Gulf. Omani ports, opening into the Arabian Sea, are well away from direct Iranian threats and offer a closer, direct link to Indian ports. Historically, Oman has been a gateway for Indian trade to West Asia, and politically, it maintains good relations with all regional stakeholders, including Israel.
2. Egypt: A Western Spur: To the west, an alternative route through Egypt could provide a safer and more reliable connection to European ports. Egypt’s Mediterranean ports offer direct sea routes to Europe, bypassing the volatile regions. Including Egypt in the IMEC project could balance regional dynamics, given Egypt’s strong relationships with regional players and its expressed interest in participating in the corridor.

The IMEC is a forward-looking and transformative initiative, designed to enhance regional connectivity and economic integration while countering China’s BRI. However, the Gaza war has exposed significant vulnerabilities and missing links in the current structure of the IMEC. By incorporating strategic partners like Oman and Egypt, the corridor can be insulated from future conflicts and disruptions, ensuring its long-term viability and success. These adjustments will not only address the geopolitical risks but also strengthen the economic and political ties among the participating nations, contributing to a more stable and prosperous region.