DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21st September 2023
Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction Syllabus Prelims –DISASTER MANAGEMENT Context: Leaders have recommitted to full implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in the recently held summit. Background:- Leaders from around the world gathered on September 18, 2023, for the High-level Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit and agreed to intensify their efforts to deliver SDGs by 2030. About Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction:- IMAGE SOURCE: UNDR Adoption: 2015. Time Period: 2015-2030. It was adopted at the Third UN World Conference in Sendai, Japan, on March 18, 2015. Objective: to guide the multi-hazard management of disaster risk in development at all levels as well as within and across all sectors. Historical Background:- It is the outcome of stakeholder consultations initiated in March 2012 and inter-governmental negotiations from July 2014 to March 2015, supported by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction at the request of the UN General Assembly. It is the successor instrument to the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters. The Sendai Framework outlines seven clear targets and four priorities for action to prevent new and reduce existing disaster risks. The four priorities for action include:- Understanding disaster risk: Disaster risk management should be based on an understanding of disaster risk in all its dimensions. Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk: Disaster risk governance at the national, regional, and global levels. Investing in disaster reduction for resilience: Public and private investment in disaster risk prevention and reduction. Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response, and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction: strengthen disaster preparedness for response. It aims to achieve the substantial reduction of disaster risk and losses in lives, livelihoods, and health and in the economic, physical, social, cultural, and environmental assets of persons, businesses, communities, and countries. It recognizes that the State has the primary role to reduce disaster risk. It believes that responsibility should be shared with other stakeholders including local government, the private sector, and other stakeholders. (Reimagining Disaster Management) The Sendai Framework works hand in hand with the other 2030 Agenda agreements, including The Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Significance:- The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 was the first major agreement of the post-2015 development agenda. It provides Member States with concrete actions to protect development gains from the risk of disaster. MUST READ: Joshimath crisis SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) “Climate Action Tracker” which monitors the emission reduction pledges of different countries is a: (2022) Database created by a coalition of research organizations Wing of “International Panel of Climate Change” Committee under “United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change” Agency promoted and financed by the United Nations Environment Programme and World Bank Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2016) The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015. The Alliance includes all the member countries of the United Nations. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Hoysala Temples Syllabus Prelims –ART AND CULTURE Context: As per recent announcements, the Hoysala Temples, will be India’s 42nd UNESCO World Heritage Site. Background:- The announcement was made by the agency in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee is being held till September 25, 2023. Rabindranath Tagore’s Santiniketan, the university town in West Bengal, was also included as a world heritage site previously. About Hoysala Temples:- IMAGE SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The sacred ensembles of the Hoysalas, that has been inscribed on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List includes three temples in Karnataka. The three Hoyasala temples include:- Chennakeshava temple Location: Belur (Hassan district), Karnataka. It is located at the centre of the traditional settlement which is surrounded by the remnants of a mud fort and a moat. The Garbhagriha is stellar shaped with zigzag walls making 24 forms of Lord Vishnu looking different at all times of the day due to light and shade effect. Shantaladevi, the queen of King Vishnuvardhana, is represented in Darpana Sundari (lady with the mirror). Sculpture and bracket figures of madanikas (celestial nymphs) are on the ceiling. Temples of Kappe Chennigaraya, Soumyanayaki, Andal, and other Vaishnava manifestations, surround the main temple. Hoysaleswara Temple Location: Halebidu (Hassan district), Karnataka. River: It is on the banks of the Dwarasamudra tank in Halebidu. It is a town that has many protected and unprotected temples, archaeological ruins, and mounds. Twin-shrine temple, perhaps the largest Shiva temple built by Hoysala kings. Poised on a star-shaped base that consists 8 rows of friezes carved with elephants, lions, horses, and floral scrolls. Outer walls have intricately carved Hindu deities, sages, stylized animals, birds, and friezes depicting the life of Hoysala kings. Imagery from epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavad Gita adorn the outer walls. Highly ornate temple doorways. The Nandimantapa with a decorated Nandi statue is positioned right in front of the temple. The exquisite carvings in the interiors of the temple have highly polished lathe-turned pillars. Keshava Temple Location: Mysore district, Karnataka. It is at the center of Somanathapura village (Mysore district). It is a Vaishnava temple. River: Built on the banks of River Kaveri at Somanathapura. It was consecrated in 1258 CE by Somanatha Dandanayaka who was a general of King Narasimha III. It is enclosed in a walled courtyard with a mahadvara (major gate) and tall carved soapstone pillars. Soapstone: a green-grey chloritic schist material that is soft in a quarry but hardens when exposed to the air. There are inscription stones in old Kannada, with Hindu iconography and miniature reliefs of Keshava, Janardhana, and Venugopala. About Hoysala Architecture:- Hoysala architecture developed under the rule of the Hoysala Empire between the 11th and 14th centuries. It is mostly concentrated in southern Karnataka. Hoysala temples are sometimes called hybrid or vesara as their unique style seems between Dravida and Nagara styles. The Hoysala temples contain multiple shrines grouped around a central pillared hall and laid out in the shape of an intricately designed star. They are made out of soapstone which is a relatively soft stone. They are easily distinguishable from other medieval temples by their highly original star-like ground plans and a profusion of decorative carvings. List of World Heritage Sites In India: Cultural 34 Agra Fort (1983) Ajanta Caves (1983) Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar (2016) Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi (1989) Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (2004) Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) (2004) Churches and Convents of Goa (1986) Dholavira: a Harappan City (2021) Elephanta Caves (1987) Ellora Caves (1983) Fatehpur Sikri (1986) Great Living Chola Temples (1987, 2004) Group of Monuments at Hampi (1986) Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram (1984) Group of Monuments at Pattadakal (1987) Hill Forts of Rajasthan (2013) Historic City of Ahmadabad (2017) Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi (1993) Jaipur City, Rajasthan (2019) Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana (2021) Khajuraho Group of Monuments (1986) Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya (2002) Mountain Railways of India (1999, 2005, 2008) Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi (1993) Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat (2014) Red Fort Complex (2007) Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (2003) Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas (2023) Santiniketan (2023) Sun Temple, Konârak (1984) Taj Mahal (1983) The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement (2016) The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur (2010) Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai (2018) Natural 7 Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area (2014) Kaziranga National Park (1985) Keoladeo National Park (1985) Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (1985) Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks (1988, 2005) Sundarbans National Park (1987) Western Ghats (2012) Mixed 1 Khangchendzonga National Park (2016) MUST READ: Khajuraho temples SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple? (2022) Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines. A description of the Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present-day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of (2019) Chalukya Chandela Rashtrakuta Vijayanagara Line of Control (LoC) Syllabus Prelims –POLITY Context: The Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police killed three terrorists along the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir recently. Background:- One of the three terrorists who attempted to cross the LoC into India at Uri town in the Baramulla district received cover fire from Pakistani forces, said Brigadier PMS Dhillon, commander of the Pir Panjal Brigade of the Indian Army. About Line of Control (LoC):- The full form of LOC is Line of Control. It is the military command line between the parts of the former princely state of Jammu & Kashmir administered by India & Pakistan. It is not an international boundary. However, under international law, it is defined and protected by a bilateral treaty, the 1972 Shimla Agreement. LOC was originally known as the Cease-fire Line. It was redesignated as the “Line of Control” following the Shimla Agreement. The Shimla Agreement was signed on 3 July 1972. It is delineated on a map signed by DGMOs of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement. The part of Jammu that is under Indian control was known as the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Currently, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh are the two union territories that make up the portion of the erstwhile princely state that is under Indian administration. The Pakistani-controlled part is divided into Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit–Baltistan. The northernmost point of the Line of Control is known as NJ9842. The Line of Control divided Kashmir into two parts and closed the Jehlum valley route. LOC is clearly demarcated by the militaries and a lot of activities (i.e. face to face-to-face confrontation, firings, etc.) take place. The Indian and Pakistan army is present here. (Judicial remedies for the Jammu and Kashmir net restrictions). MUST READ: Article 370 SOURCE: BUSINESS LINE PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which of the following is/are the exclusive power(s) of Lok Sabha? (2022) To ratify the declaration of Emergency To pass a motion of no-confidence against the Council of Ministers To impeach the President of India Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 2 only 1 and 3 3 only Q.2) With reference to India, consider the following statements: (2021) Judicial custody means an accused is in the custody of the concerned magistrate and such an accused is locked up in a police station, not in jail. During judicial custody, the police officer in charge of the case is not allowed to interrogate the suspect without the approval of the court. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Comptroller Auditor General of India (CAG) Syllabus Prelims –POLITY Context: Recently, a series of violations and other discrepancies, in the wildlife sanctuaries of Gujarat managed by the state forest department, were flagged by the Comptroller Auditor General of India (CAG). Background:- Poor spending of funds has led to mismanagement, leaving the forests open for encroachment, mining, and deforestation, added CAG in its report tabled in the state assembly on September 16, 2023. Less than 1 percent of the allotted fund was spent by the forest department in 2016-17. Though the state government allocated Rs 85,557.78 crore, just Rs 1,000 crore or 0.78 percent was spent, CAG pointed out. About the Comptroller Auditor General of India (CAG):- The Constitution of India provides for an independent office of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) in Chapter V under Part V. He is the head of the Indian Audit and Accounts Department. He is the guardian of the public purse. He acts as a guide, friend, and philosopher of the Public Accounts Committee of the Parliament. Appointment: CAG is appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal. Tenure: 6 years or 65 years of age, whichever is earlier. Removal: CAG can be removed by the President only in accordance with the procedure mentioned in the Constitution which is the manner same as the removal of a Supreme Court Judge. He is ineligible to hold any office, either under the Government of India or of any state, once he retires/resigns as a CAG. Salary: His salary and other service conditions cannot be varied to his disadvantage after the appointment. Conditions of service: His administrative powers and the conditions of service of persons serving in the Indian Audit and Accounts Department are prescribed by the President only after consulting him. The administrative expenses of the office of CAG, including all salaries, allowances, and pensions are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India that is not subject to vote. Constitutional Provisions regarding the CAG:- Article 148–151, in Part V of the constitution of India deals with the appointment, oath, and conditions of service, Duties, and Powers of CAG. Article 279 – The calculation of “net proceeds” is ascertained and certified by the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India, whose certificate is final. Third Schedule – Section IV of the Third Schedule of the Constitution of India prescribes the form of oath or affirmation to be made by the Judges of the Supreme Court and the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India at the time of assumption of office. Sixth Schedule– According to this schedule, the District Council or Regional Council should be kept in such form as the CAG prescribes with the approval of the President. Functions of CAG:- CAG audits the accounts related to all expenditures from the Consolidated Fund of India, the Consolidated Fund of each state, and UT’s having a legislative assembly. He audits all expenditures from the Contingency Fund of India and the Public Account of India as well as the Contingency Fund and Public Account of each state. He audits all trading, manufacturing, profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, and other subsidiary accounts kept by any department of the Central Government and the state governments. He audits the receipts and expenditures of all bodies and authorities substantially financed from the Central or State revenues. (Accountability of CAG)) He audits the accounts of any other authority when requested by the President or Governor. MUST READ: UIDAI audit by CAG SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2022) The Attorney General of India and Solicitor General of India are the only officers of the Government who are allowed to participate in the meetings of the Parliament of India. According to the Constitution of India, the Attorney General of India submits his resignation when the Government which appointed him resigns. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2016) The Chief Secretary in a State is appointed by the Governor of that State. The Chief Secretary in a State has a fixed tenure Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 SHREYAS scheme Syllabus Prelims –GOVERNMENT SCHEMES Context: As per recent estimates, over 2300 crore rupees have been allocated for the education of students since 2014 under the SHREYAS scheme. Background:- SHREYAS National Fellowship Scheme benefits more than 21,000 SC students for Higher Education. About SHREYAS scheme:- Launched:2014. Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. SHREYAS stands for, the Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme. It is an umbrella scheme that comprises 4 central sector sub-schemes. Since all these sub-schemes are central sector schemes, state-wise data is not maintained for these schemes. Objectives:– Provide high-quality coaching to economically disadvantaged SC and OBC Candidates. Prepare them for competitive and entrance exams for public and private sector jobs. Facilitate admissions to prestigious technical and professional higher education institutions. Salient Features:- SHREYAS stands for, the Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme. The 4 central sector sub-schemes under it include:- Top Class Education for SCs Free Coaching Scheme for SCs and OBCs National Overseas Scheme for SCs National Fellowship for SCs. Top Class Education for SCs:- Objectives:- To provide coaching of good quality for economically disadvantaged Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) candidates. To enable them to appear in competitive and entrance examinations for obtaining appropriate jobs in the Public/Private Sector as well as for securing admission in reputed technical and professional higher education institutions. The ceiling of the total family income under the scheme is 8 lakhs per annum. The ratio of SC: OBC students is 70:30. 30% of slots are reserved for females in each category. In case of the non-availability of an adequate number of candidates in the SC category, the Ministry can relax this ratio. However, in no case, a less than 50% SC student shall be permitted. Top-Class Education for SCs:- Objective: recognizing and promoting quality education amongst students belonging to SCs by providing full financial support. The Scheme will cover SC students pursuing studies beyond the 12th class. The scholarship, once awarded, will continue till the completion of the course, subject to satisfactory performance of the student. The ceiling of the total family income under the scheme is 8 lakhs per annum. Under the scheme, full tuition fees, non-refundable charges, and academic allowance expenses are provided. National Overseas Scheme for SCs:- Under this scheme, financial assistance is provided to the selected students from SCs, De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, landless agricultural labourers, and traditional artisan categories for pursuing master and Ph.D. level courses abroad. Such students can benefit under the scheme whose total family income, including the candidate, is less than 8 lakhs per annum, who have more than 60% marks in the qualifying examination, who are below 35 years of age, and who secured admission in top 500 QS ranking foreign Institutes/ Universities. Under the scheme, total tuition fees, maintenance and contingency allowance, and visa fees, to and fro air passage, are provided to the awardees. (Education & Nation Building) National Fellowship for SC Students:- Under the scheme, fellowship is provided to Scheduled Castes students for pursuing higher education leading to M.Phil/Ph.D. degrees in Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences in Universities/Institutions/ Colleges recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The scheme provides for 2000 new slots per year who have qualified the National Eligibility Test- Junior Research Fellowship (NET-JRF) of UGC and Junior Research Fellows for Science stream qualifying UGC-Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (UGC-CSIR) Joint Test. MUST READ: Gender gap in education SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which of the following is/are the aim/aims of the “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India? (2018) Formation of India’s own Internet companies like China did. Establish a policy framework to encourage overseas multinational corporations that collect Big Data to build their large data centres within our national geographical boundaries. Connect many of our villages to the Internet and bring Wi-Fi to many of our schools, public places, and major tourist centres. Select the correct answer using the code given below : 1 and 2 only 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) Regarding Digi Locker’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016) It is a digital locker system offered by the Government under the Digital India Programme. It allows you to access your e-documents irrespective of your physical location. Select the correct answer using the code given below. 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Old Parliament Building Syllabus Prelims –ART AND CULTURE Context: As per recent reports, the old Parliament Building will be turned into a museum. Background:- From September 19, 2023, the ongoing special House session has been moved to the new Parliament building. The old Parliament will be turned into a museum. About the old Parliament Building:- Location: New Delhi. Designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. Foundation laid: February 12, 1921. Inaugurated: January 18, 1927. Historical Background:- At the coronation of George V as Emperor of India on December 12, 1911, the monarch decided to transfer the seat of the Government of India from Calcutta to the ancient Capital of Delhi. This 164-pillared building first housed the Imperial Legislative Council (From January 18, 1927 to August 15, 1947) in Delhi following this transfer. After Independence, it served as the Constituent Assembly of India. After the adoption of the Constitution it became the Parliament of India, housing the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. In 2019, the central government announced the redevelopment project to give a new identity to the ‘power corridor’ of India. This project is known as the Central Vista redevelopment project. The plan included the construction of a new parliament. Architecture:- The circular, colonnaded Parliament building has for long been a symbol of India’s democracy. The parliament building’s construction took six years – from 1921 to 1927. It is popularly believed that the circular shape of the Chausath Yogini temple at Mitawli village in Madhya Pradesh’s Morena provided inspiration for the Council House design. However, there is no historical evidence to back this up. A few Indian elements added include:- Jaalis: a latticed carving depicting objects like flowers and other patterns. chhatris: a domed roof atop a pavilion-like structure. It features Indian architectural motifs, such as the use of columns and domes. The building is renowned for its architectural blend of Western and Indian styles. The goal of the architecture was to project the strength of British imperialism and rule over India. Hence, both the architects agreed to highlight the superiority of European classicism, upon which Indian traditions had to be based. The circular building has 144 cream sandstone pillars. The building is surrounded by large gardens. (Mughal Gardens) MUST READ: Puri Jagannath Temple SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to ancient South India, Korkai, Poompuhar, and Muchiri were well-known as (2023) capital cities ports centers of iron-and-steel making shrines of Jain Tirthankaras Q.2)With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements: (2021) It is a circular temple built during the reign of the Kachchhapaghata Dynasty. It is the only circular temple built in India. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 2 and 3 only 1 and 4 2, 3 and 4 Kisan Rin Portal Syllabus Prelims –ECONOMY/GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES Context: Recently, the Indian govt launched the Kisan Rin Portal with the weather portal WIND. Background:- Government launches Kisan Rin Portal under the Kisan Credit Card scheme to revolutionize the agriculture sector of India, along with the weather information Network Data Systems (WINDS) portal. The WIND portal:- Launched: July 2023. Objective: to leverage advanced weather data analytics and to give stakeholders actionable insight to make informed weather decisions on agriculture. The portal also provides a comprehensive manual to stakeholders for an in-depth understanding of the portal functionalities, data interpretations, and effective utilization, empowering farmers, policymakers, and various agricultural entities to make well-informed decisions. About Kisan Rin Portal:- Launched: September,2023. Objective: to revolutionize access to credit services under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, particularly for farmers. The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme is a credit scheme introduced in August 1998 by Indian public sector banks. Implementation: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW), Ministry of Finance, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). Salient Features:- The Kisan Rin portal serves as an integrated hub. It offers a comprehensive view of farmer data. It will also show the progress in scheme utilization. It will provide farmers easy access to subsidized loans under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme. (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) The Kisan Rin digital platform will offer:- a comprehensive view of farmer data scheme utilization progress loan disbursement specifics (Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)) interest subvention claims It will facilitate farmers in availing of subsidized agricultural credit through the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS). Benefits:- By fostering seamless integration with banks, this pioneering portal enables proactive policy interventions, strategic guidance, and adaptive enhancements for more focused and efficient agriculture credit and optimum utilization of interest subvention. It will increase seamless integration with banks for more effective and efficient agriculture credit. MUST READ: Digital Platform Kisan Sarathi SOURCE: BUSINESS LINE PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2023) The Government of India provides Minimum Support Price for niger( Guizotia aoyssinica) seeds. Niger is cultivated as a Kharif crop. Some tribal people in India use niger seed oil for cooking. How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q.2) Which one of the following countries has been suffering from decades of civil strife and food shortages and was in the news in the recent past for its very severe famine? (2023) Angola Costa Rica Ecuador Somalia Mains: Strengthening of Power Sector in India Syllabus Mains – GS 3 (Economy) Context: The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) recently projects India’s power sector demand to increase 1.8 times between 2021-22 and 2031-32. At this rate, India’s annual per capita electricity consumption will be about 1,700-1,800 units in 2031-32. Power Sector in India: India was ranked 4th in wind power, 5th in solar power and 4th in renewable power installed capacity, as of 2020. Installed Generation Capacity (Fuel wise): Fossil Fuel – 2,37,269MW (56.8%) in which Coal and Lignite has largest share 50.7%, India is the only country among the G20 nations that is on track to achieve the targets under the Paris Agreement. As of October 2022, India’s installed renewable energy capacity (including hydro) stood at 165.94 GW, representing 40.6% of the overall installed power capacity. Solar energy is estimated to contribute 62 GW, followed by 41.84 GW from wind power, 10.70 GW from biomass, 4.92 GW from small hydropower, and 46.85 GW from hydropower. Challenges in India’s Power Sector Transformation: Policy and Regulation of power Sector: Electricity is listed in a ‘concurrent list’ in seven schedules, therefore there is lack of coordination and cooperation between centre and states. Generation of electricity in the power sector: In spite of the renewables push, coal still accounts for about 50% of India’s installed power capacity. Central Electricity Authority (CEA) identified land acquisition, fund constraints with contractors, and contractual disputes as some key issues leading to delays. Subsidies: Government subsidy and cross-subsidy from industrial and commercial consumers attempt to keep electricity affordable for residential and agricultural consumers. For example, in 2019-20, while 21% of the total electricity supply was sold to agricultural consumers, their share in the total revenue was only 2%. Transmission issue in power sector: The country’s weak transmission grid remains a serious hurdle. For example: A planned approach to build huge solar plants in Leh was recently cancelled due to a lack of transmission infrastructure. Climate Finance and decarbonization: India’s pledge at the COP-26 summit to have 500 GW of non-fossil generation capacity by 2030. These will require investments of about Rs 32 lakh crore. Transmission lines overloading: Due to higher loads during peak hours, transmission lines frequently experience issues. Distribution in power sector: Discoms are the weakest link in India’s Power sector. Discoms continue to register financial losses, technical and commercial losses remain high. Although private participation is permitted, their presence among discoms is limited. Underutilization of Renewable Energy Potential: The National Electricity Plan (NEP) projects a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% in energy demand from FY22 to FY27. The report estimates that the pace of solar installations will need to double to over 30 GW per year to meet the NEP targets. Solutions to tackle these challenges: Fuel Reforms: Various aspects like ramping up coal production by both public and private sector in a time-bound manner, increased participation of private sector in coal production and easing of regulatory framework etc need to be addressed while formulating such reforms. Taxation: Power-generating companies should not be saddled with the burden of cross-subsidising the renewable sector. This can be borne by the society (through taxation) and not by the entities that are already in trouble. Cooperative federalism: To resolve water disputes, government must help states to come to a common ground. Emphasis should be on cooperative federalism with shared benefit to all the states. Balanced Regulatory Interventions: Regulators need to be sensitised to the challenges faced by the sector and policy framework needs to be crafted and enforced to ensure a win-win situation for all the stakeholders. They must pro-actively intervene to resolve the immediate issues ailing the power sector. Increased Financing Facilities for Energy Sector: A robust and sustainable credit enhancement mechanism for funding in Energy Sector needs to be put in place through increased participation by global funding agencies like The World Bank, ADB etc. in the entire value chain. Merger of ministries: There should be only one energy ministry to make coordination and implementation of policies better. It will remove policy paralysis too. Reduction of transmission losses: This should be achieved by better infrastructure and technological efforts. Old plants should be shut and should be replaced with new. Government Initiatives to Reform the Power Sector: The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA): It aims to achieve universal household electrification by providing electricity connections to all un-electrified households. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY): The DDUGJY launched in 2014 a program to achieve 100% village electrification. The Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) scheme: To provide energy efficient LED bulbs to domestic consumers at an affordable price. Restructured Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS): To enhance the efficiency of power distribution. UDAY Scheme: Launched in 2015 for Operational and Financial Turnaround of Power Distribution Companies. Way Forward: Therefore India’s growing economy demands an exponential increase in electricity supply, which requires a comprehensive reforms in policy, regulation, and the entire power sector are essential. By embracing decentralization, upgrading technology, and privatizing distribution companies, India can pave the way for a more efficient and sustainable power sector, ensuring a brighter future for its citizens. Source: BS MUST READ: State if DISCOM’s in India Exploring Bima Sugam: A Revolution in Indian Insurance Syllabus Mains – GS 2 (Governance) Context: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) claims that the proposed Bima Sugam is a “game changer” and a “UPI moment” for the insurance segment. About Bima Sugam Platform: Bima Sugam will enable individuals to buy life, health, motor or property insurance policies online. The platform will enable easy access under a single roof for insurance companies, agents, brokers, banks and even aggregators. The platform will act as a centralised database which will assist consumers with all insurance related queries. The overall budget for Bima Sugam has been hiked to Rs 200 crore from around Rs 85 crore. Ownership: Life insurance and general insurance companies will own a 47.5 percent stake each, while brokers and agent bodies will own 2.5 percent each. Significance of the Bima Sugam Platform: Cost Effective: Commissions on policies are expected to come down, benefiting the customers. The cost of buying policies will come down. Single Platform with various Options: Bima Sugam will enable them to identify a suitable scheme for the customers in a single platform. They have to spend time talking to agents and visiting the websites of different insurers to select a suitable scheme. Access of Data on real-time basis: It will facilitate insurance companies to access the validated and authentic data from various touch points on a real-time basis. Reduce Paperwork: The platform will interface for the intermediaries and agents to sell policies and provide services to policyholders, among others, and reduce paperwork. Single window for the Policyholders: The proposed Bima Sugam platform would act as a single window for the policyholder to manage his/her insurance coverage. End-to-end Solutions Provider: Bima Sugam will provide end-to-end solutions for customers’ insurance needs i.e., purchase, service, and settlement in a seamless manner. Faster Claims and Renewals: Settlement of claims and renewal of policies will also become faster as paperwork is reduced drastically, making it easier for the customers. An Electronic Marketplace Protocol: As per IRDAI, Bima Sugam would universalise and democratize insurance, which would enable and empower all insurance stakeholders across the insurance value chain. Challenges with the Insurance Sector in India: Fraud: Fraud is a major challenge in the insurance sector in India. Insurance fraud includes false claims, misrepresentations, and other illegal activities. Fraud can often be facilitated by weaknesses in an organization’s systems and controls, which can create opportunities for those intent on committing fraud. More than 70% of Indian insurers indicated a marginal to a significant increase in frauds in the past two years. Low Penetration: The insurance penetration rate in India is low as compared to other countries. This is due to low awareness and a lack of trust among people towards insurance. According to the IRDAI, the penetration of the Indian insurance industry is less than 5% of the GDP. In terms of penetration, India is far behind the global average of 7% of the GDP. Lack of Product Innovation: The insurance sector in India has been slow in product innovation. Many insurance companies offer similar products, which leads to a lack of differentiation in the market. Slow Rate of Digitalization by Incumbents: The insurance sector in India has been slow to adopt digitalization compared to other industries, which has resulted in several challenges such as inefficient processes, lack of transparency, and poor customer experience. Claims Management: The claims process in India is often seen as complicated, slow, and opaque, which can lead to customer dissatisfaction and loss of trust in the insurance industry. This can be due to a lack of transparency, inefficient processes, and poor communication with customers. Lack of Automation: Many insurance companies in India still rely on manual processes for tasks such as underwriting, policy servicing, and claims management, which can be time-consuming and error prone. This can result in delays, higher costs, and dissatisfied customers. Way Forward: The implementation of Bima Sugam may pose significant technological challenges, but it holds the potential to enhance insurance penetration in India. As the insurance sector embraces innovation and technology, Bima Sugam could pave the way for a more inclusive and secure future for policyholders in the country. Source: Indian Express Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1) Consider the following pairs: Temple Location 1.Sammed Shikharji Jain Temple Jharkhand 2.Modhera Sun temple Gujarat 3.Srisailam Temple Kerala How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? Only one Only two All three None Q2) Consider the following statements Statement-I: Investing in disaster reduction for resilience is one of the four priorities for action of the Sendai Framework. Statement-II: It is the predecessor of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA). Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I Statement-I is correct but Statement II is incorrect Statement-I is incorrect but Statement II is correct Q3) With reference to the Comptroller Auditor General of India (CAG), consider the following statements: His pension comes from the Consolidated Fund of India and is subject to vote. He is the head of the Indian Audit and Accounts Department. He has a tenure of 5 years or 60 years of age, whichever is earlier. How many of the statements given above are correct? 2 only 1, 2 and 3 only and 3 only only Mains Practice Questions Q.1) Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (2020) Q.2) What are the major challenges of insurance sector in India, and suggest innovative steps to address them? (250 words) Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’ 21st September 2023 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR 20th September – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – d Q.2) – b Q.3) – a