UPSC Current Affairs – January 12, 2024

National Youth Day Celebration

GS-1-Indian Culture

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• India celebrates National Youth Day on January 12, honoring Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary.
• The day emphasizes living according to Vivekananda’s values, principles, and beliefs since 1984.
• A National Youth Festival is held annually from January 12 to 16 as part of the celebrations.
• The theme for this year’s festival is Viksit Bharat@ 2047: Yuva ke liye, yuva ke dwara.
• Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in introducing Hinduism to the Western world, advocated for national integration and the revival of Hinduism in India.
• His impactful speech at the 1893 World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago condemned sectarianism and bigotry.
• Vivekananda’s teachings emphasize self-belief, the pursuit of knowledge, and the importance of mental attitude in shaping one’s reality.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the role of Swami Vivekananda’s teachings in shaping the youth policies in contemporary India.

• Impact of Vivekananda’s emphasis on self-reliance and character building on modern educational curricula and youth development programs.
• Influence of his ideas on national integration and communal harmony in the formulation of youth-centric policies.
• Reflection of his teachings in the objectives of the National Youth Festival and other government initiatives targeting the youth.

Critically evaluate the significance of Swami Vivekananda’s speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions in promoting interfaith understanding globally.

• Analysis of the content of Vivekananda’s speech and its message against sectarianism and bigotry.
• Impact of the speech on global perceptions of Hinduism and Indian spiritual thought.
• Long-term effects of his address on interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance worldwide.

Discuss the relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s views on education and knowledge in the context of India’s current educational challenges.

• Comparison of Vivekananda’s philosophy of education focusing on inherent knowledge and self-discovery with modern educational practices.
• Application of his teachings in addressing issues like rote learning, lack of critical thinking, and creativity in the Indian education system.
• Potential reforms inspired by his ideas to enhance educational outcomes and foster holistic development in students.

India’s Passport Ranking

GS-2-International Relations

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• India ranks 80th on the Henley Passport Index, improving from 84th position.
• Indian passport holders have visa-free access to 62 countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
• India’s passport power is limited by high visa requirements for 177 countries, including major destinations like the US, EU, and China.
• Regional comparison shows Maldives leading among India’s neighbors at 58th, while Pakistan is at 101st.
• Top global passports include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, and Singapore, each offering visa-free access to 194 destinations.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

1. Critically examine the implications of India’s current ranking on the Henley Passport Index for its international relations and economic engagements.

• Impact on bilateral and multilateral negotiations, where visa-free access can facilitate easier diplomatic and business exchanges.
• Influence on foreign direct investment, as ease of travel can attract investors and business professionals.
• Effect on tourism industry, potentially increasing inbound and outbound tourism flows.
• Perception of India’s global standing and soft power.

2. Discuss the role of geopolitical factors in determining the strength of a country’s passport, using India and its neighboring countries as examples.

• Analysis of regional stability and its impact on international trust and travel agreements.
• Effect of diplomatic relationships on visa agreements, citing examples from India and its neighbors like China and Pakistan.
• Role of economic partnerships in enhancing passport power through agreements like bilateral visa-free arrangements.
• Impact of security concerns and border disputes on visa policies.

3. Evaluate the potential strategies that India could adopt to improve its passport power in the global context.

• Strengthening diplomatic relations and engaging in more comprehensive bilateral and multilateral negotiations.
• Improving international perceptions through enhanced security measures and streamlined visa processes.
• Expanding economic and cultural diplomacy to build goodwill and reciprocal travel agreements.
• Investing in global outreach programs to boost India’s soft power and international image.

Red Sea Shipping Crisis

GS-2-International Relations

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• Global supply chains disrupted due to shipping companies avoiding the Red Sea.
• Houthis in Yemen attacking vessels, claiming support for Hamas and targeting ships to Israel.
• US and UK naval forces respond with air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.
• Houthi attacks increase, using drones and rockets, impacting major shipping route through Bab al-Mandab Strait.
• Shipping firms reroute vessels around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope, adding significant time and cost.
• Suez Canal’s importance highlighted as a major route for oil and consumer goods between Asia and Europe.
• Consumer goods face delays and increased costs, potentially affecting prices and inflation.
• Alternative transport routes like rail and trucking limited due to geopolitical issues.
• International naval operation launched to protect Red Sea shipping, with mixed success.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the strategic importance of the Suez Canal in global trade and the potential impacts of its disruption.

• Key conduit for oil and LNG, facilitating significant percentage of global shipments.
• Shortest maritime route between Europe and Asia, enhancing economic efficiency.
• Disruption can lead to increased shipping times and costs, affecting global supply chains.

Critically discuss the role of geopolitical conflicts, such as the Houthi attacks, in shaping international maritime security strategies.

• Geopolitical conflicts can threaten critical global shipping routes, necessitating international naval responses.
• Impact on global trade security and the necessity for multinational naval collaborations to ensure safe passage.
• Examine the effectiveness of such strategies in deterring threats and maintaining freedom of navigation.

Evaluate the economic implications of rerouting shipping away from traditional routes like the Red Sea due to security threats.

• Increased costs and shipping times due to longer alternative routes, impacting businesses and consumers.
• Potential shifts in trade patterns and alliances as companies seek safer, more reliable shipping options.
• Long-term economic impacts on regions dependent on maritime trade through affected routes.

Bhutan Election Results

GS-2-International Relations

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• Tshering Tobgay and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) won Bhutan’s runoff election, securing 30 of 47 seats.
• The election followed a primary in November 2023 where the incumbent Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa party was ousted.
• Tobgay, a conservationist with a Harvard education, previously served as prime minister from 2013 to 2018.
• Bhutan’s elections are noted for their fairness, contrasting with regional neighbors, and have evolved significantly since transitioning from a monarchy in 2008.
• Economic issues, particularly youth unemployment and slow GDP growth, were central to Tobgay’s campaign.
• India remains a key ally and donor to Bhutan, influencing its economic recovery and infrastructure development.
• Geopolitical tensions persist with China, especially over border disputes, impacting Bhutan’s foreign relations and strategy.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the role of economic issues in shaping the outcome of the recent Bhutanese elections.

• Highlight the economic backdrop of Bhutan, including the impact of COVID-19 on tourism and the high youth unemployment rate.
• Discuss Tshering Tobgay’s campaign promises focused on economic revival and addressing unemployment.
• Analyze voter concerns regarding economic stability and how these influenced their choice in the elections.

Critically evaluate the impact of Bhutan’s transition from a monarchy to a parliamentary democracy on its political stability and international relations.

• Outline the historical transition of Bhutan from a monarchy to a democracy in 2008.
• Analyze the changes in political stability and governance since the transition.
• Discuss Bhutan’s evolving international relations, particularly with India and China, in the context of its democratic shift.

Discuss the strategic significance of Bhutan’s election results for India and its implications for regional geopolitics.

• Explain the geopolitical landscape of South Asia, focusing on the relationship between India, Bhutan, and China.
• Analyze the significance of Tshering Tobgay’s pro-India stance and the implications for India-Bhutan relations.
• Assess the potential regional outcomes following the election, considering the historical tensions such as the Doklam standoff.

Israel Genocide Lawsuit

GS-2-International Relations

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is hearing a lawsuit filed by South Africa against Israel, alleging that Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute genocide.
• The lawsuit claims that Israel’s siege of Gaza violates the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Israel and South Africa are parties to.
• South Africa has requested the ICJ to provisionally enforce a ceasefire to alleviate suffering in Gaza.
• Israel contests the allegations, describing them as blood libel,and is supported by the United States and the United Kingdom.
• Several countries and the Organization of Islamic Countries support South Africa’s lawsuit.
• The European Union has maintained a neutral stance, supporting the ICJ but not explicitly backing the genocide case against Israel.
• Some EU member states have expressed skepticism about the lawsuit, with leaders from Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic questioning the genocide claim.
• Hungary explicitly condemns the lawsuit, calling it a legal attackagainst Israel.
• Support within the EU for South Africa’s position is limited, with only a few countries showing explicit support.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the role of the International Court of Justice in mediating conflicts between nations, particularly in the context of allegations of genocide.

• Definition and purpose of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
• ICJ’s jurisdiction and how it handles cases of genocide under international law.
• Historical precedents where ICJ has intervened in conflicts or accusations of genocide.
• Impact of ICJ rulings on international relations and conflict resolution.

Critically discuss the implications of international support or opposition for countries involved in legal disputes at the ICJ, using the example of Israel and South Africa’s case.

• Overview of the case between Israel and South Africa at the ICJ.
• Analysis of international reactions, including support and opposition from various countries.
• Impact of these international stances on the proceedings and outcomes at the ICJ.
• Broader implications for international law and diplomacy.

Evaluate the effectiveness of provisional measures requested at the ICJ, such as ceasefires, in alleviating humanitarian crises.

• Explanation of provisional measures within the ICJ framework.
• Specifics of the provisional measures requested in the Israel-South Africa case.
• Analysis of past effectiveness of such measures in other ICJ cases.
• Discussion on the impact of these measures on humanitarian situations in conflict zones.

Rising Global Unemployment

GS-3-Economy & Economic Development

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• The global unemployment rate is projected to increase from 5.1% in 2023 to 5.2% in 2024.
• An additional two million workers are expected to enter the job market in 2024.
• Factors such as uneven labor force participation, geopolitical tensions, disruptions in global value chains, and high interest rates in advanced economies contribute to employment challenges.
• Labour market participation rates have not fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, affecting overall labor input.
• The global job gap remains significant, with nearly 435 million people affected.
• Real wages and living standards are eroding due to persistent inflation and rising housing costs.
• The World Bank predicts the slowest half-decade of GDP growth in 30 years by the end of 2024.
• Technological advancements, including the rise of artificial intelligence, may further test labor market adjustments.
• Geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts, like the Israel-Hamas conflict, pose additional risks to the global economy and employment.
• High interest rates in developed economies could negatively impact global economic growth.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the potential impacts of rising geopolitical tensions on global employment trends as highlighted by the International Labour Organization.

• Geopolitical tensions can disrupt global supply chains, affecting employment in manufacturing and export-oriented sectors.
• Increased uncertainty may lead to reduced investment and hiring freezes, slowing down job creation.
• Conflict zones may experience direct loss of jobs and damage to infrastructure, further exacerbating local unemployment.
• Spillover effects into neighboring regions can lead to increased refugee flows, straining public services and labor markets in host countries.

Critically discuss the role of high interest rates in advanced economies on global economic growth and employment, as per the World Employment and Social Outlook Trends 2024 report.

• High interest rates can dampen economic activity by increasing the cost of borrowing, reducing consumer spending and business investment.
• This slowdown in economic activity can lead to lower job creation and higher unemployment rates.
• Emerging markets may be particularly affected as capital flows out to higher-yielding assets in developed countries, leading to currency depreciation and inflation.
• However, high interest rates can also help control inflation, potentially stabilizing economies in the long term.

Evaluate the implications of uneven recovery in labor force participation rates across different income groups post-pandemic, as indicated in the ILO report.

• Uneven recovery can exacerbate income inequality, with lower-income groups facing prolonged unemployment or underemployment.
• This disparity can lead to social unrest and increased dependency on government support programs, straining public finances.
• Higher-income groups recovering faster may lead to a dual economy, where only certain segments benefit from economic growth.
• Policy interventions may be required to address these imbalances, such as targeted job creation programs or educational initiatives to improve workforce adaptability.

Reworking Global Trade Rules

GS-3-Economy & Economic Development

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• In 1990, global trade rules were established alongside climate agreements, promoting manufacturing in low-cost countries.
• China’s entry into the WTO in 2001 led to increased global CO2 emissions due to its industrial growth and lack of environmental regulations.
• Globalization’s initial promise has not been fulfilled, leading to a reconsideration of unfettered global trade.
• The U.S. is shifting its stance on trade to combat China’s dominance in critical green technologies and raw materials.
• The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act supports domestic low-carbon manufacturing, challenging China’s supply chain control.
• De-globalization trends might disrupt the green transition by localizing production and potentially increasing costs.
• Technological innovations, like sodium-ion batteries, could reduce dependency on current dominant supply chains.
• Local capacity building, like India’s investment in solar technology, shows a move towards self-reliance but poses challenges in competitiveness and export potential.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the potential impacts of de-globalization on the pace of the green transition in the context of recent trade and environmental policies.

• Definition of de-globalization and its relevance to trade and environmental policies.
• Analysis of how local manufacturing incentives like the IRA might affect global supply chains for green technologies.
• Discussion on the potential delays in the green transition due to reduced international cooperation and increased reliance on local resources.
• Consideration of alternative technologies and their role in mitigating the impact of de-globalization on the green transition.

Critically evaluate the role of international trade agreements in addressing climate change, with a focus on the effectiveness of incorporating environmental standards.

• Overview of existing international trade agreements and their approach to environmental issues.
• Analysis of the effectiveness of these agreements in enforcing environmental standards globally.
• Discussion on the challenges and limitations faced by international trade agreements in combating climate change.
• Exploration of potential improvements or alternatives to better integrate climate objectives into trade agreements.

Discuss the strategic implications of the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act in the context of global trade and its rivalry with China over green technologies.

• Summary of the key provisions of the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act related to green technologies.
• Analysis of how these provisions aim to shift the balance of power in the global supply chain for green technologies.
• Discussion on the potential economic and geopolitical impacts of these provisions on U.S.-China relations.
• Evaluation of the broader implications for global trade dynamics and the future of international cooperation in green technology development.

Humboldt’s Enigma Explored

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• Alexander von Humboldt observed a relationship between temperature, altitude, humidity, and biodiversity.
• He noted similar climates on different mountains worldwide, with variations in species distribution by elevation.
• Centuries later, biogeographers revisited these observations with modern tools, formulating Humboldt’s enigma.
• Humboldt’s enigma suggests that while tropical areas are diverse due to high solar energy, mountains outside the tropics also show high biodiversity.
• This biodiversity in mountains is attributed to geological diversity and varying climates over small vertical distances.
• Mountains can act as both cradles and museums for species, leading to high biodiversity.
• Geological heterogeneity in mountains creates diverse habitats, further enhancing biodiversity.
• Despite advancements, explaining biodiversity patterns remains complex, with many hypotheses and insufficient data.
• Further research, especially using modern genetic tools, is necessary to understand and preserve biodiversity in understudied regions.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Question 1: Critically examine the role of geological heterogeneity in shaping the biodiversity of mountainous regions, with specific reference to the Eastern Himalayas.

• Define geological heterogeneity and its general impact on biodiversity.
• Discuss the unique geological features of the Eastern Himalayas.
• Analyze how these geological characteristics contribute to its high biodiversity.
• Compare with other mountainous regions globally to highlight the specific impact in the Eastern Himalayas.

Question 2: Evaluate the significance of Alexander von Humboldt’s contributions to our understanding of biodiversity patterns in mountainous ecosystems.

• Outline Humboldt’s observations and theories regarding temperature, altitude, and biodiversity.
• Discuss how these ideas have laid the groundwork for modern ecological and biogeographical studies.
• Analyze the relevance of Humboldt’s findings in today’s context of climate change and biodiversity conservation.
• Assess the limitations and expansions of his theories by contemporary research.

Question 3: Explain the concept of ‘Humboldt’s enigma’ and discuss its implications for biodiversity conservation strategies in tropical mountain regions.

• Define ‘Humboldt’s enigma’ and its core principles.
• Analyze how this concept helps in understanding biodiversity distribution beyond tropical latitudes.
• Discuss the role of mountains as biodiversity hotspots within the framework of Humboldt’s enigma.
• Evaluate how this understanding can influence conservation policies and practices in tropical mountain regions.

Global Climate Extremes

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• 2023 recorded as the hottest year, affecting the global water cycle.
• El Nino and global warming increased sea temperatures, influencing weather patterns.
• Increased temperatures intensified cyclones and droughts, causing significant human and economic impacts.
• Despite drier conditions, soil water content was above average due to factors like agriculture and rainfall frequency.
• Vegetation greenness peaked due to warmer temperatures and agricultural practices.
• Surface water occurrence was notably low, while lake volumes and river flows were above average.
• 2024 is expected to see varied precipitation patterns, with some regions facing drought risks and others potential flooding.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

1. Critically examine the impact of El Niño on the global water cycle as observed in the 2023 Global Water Monitor report.

• El Niño’s role in altering precipitation patterns globally.
• Influence on sea surface temperatures and subsequent effects on weather systems.
• Impact on the intensity and frequency of cyclones and rainfall.
• Effects on drought conditions and water storage levels.

2. Discuss the implications of the observed trends in soil water content and vegetation vigour on global agricultural practices.

• Analysis of the increase in soil water content and its geographical distribution.
• Correlation between rising soil water content and agricultural expansion.
• Impact of enhanced vegetation vigour on food security and crop yields.
• Role of climate change and anthropogenic factors in influencing these trends.

3. Evaluate the potential long-term effects of changing lake volumes and river flows on water resource management.

• Overview of trends in lake volumes and river flows as per the 2023 report.
• Implications for water availability in major water-dependent regions.
• Challenges posed by these changes to existing water management policies.
• Strategies for sustainable management of water resources in light of these trends.

Severe Arctic Outbreak

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• The U.S. is experiencing a severe Arctic cold snap, described as one of the most significant of the century.
• Recent warm months are followed by this sudden drop in temperatures, with wind chills potentially falling below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
• The cold is arriving after a winter storm affected the Midwest and Great Lakes, exacerbating conditions.
• Despite the intensity, this Arctic blast is not expected to be as catastrophic as the 2021 Texas cold snap, thanks to improvements in infrastructure.
• The cold air originates from the Arctic, typically contained by the polar vortex and jet stream, which can sometimes send cold air far south if disrupted.
• Climate change is believed to influence these disruptions, potentially increasing the frequency of severe winter weather despite global warming.
• Another, less severe Arctic blast may occur later in the month, with the possibility of similar events into February.
• The occurrence of such extreme weather events is seen as indicative of a climate-changed world with greater extremes.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the role of the polar vortex in influencing weather patterns in temperate regions.

• Definition of the polar vortex and its general characteristics.
• Explanation of how disruptions in the polar vortex affect the jet stream.
• Impact of these changes on weather patterns, particularly in bringing cold air further south.

Critically discuss the implications of climate change on the frequency and intensity of Arctic blasts.

• Overview of recent trends in Arctic weather patterns and their anomalies.
• Connection between climate change and increased thermal contrasts caused by melting sea ice and snowfall patterns.
• Analysis of research suggesting that a warming planet could paradoxically lead to more severe winter weather events.

Evaluate the preparedness and response mechanisms in place for extreme weather events in light of recent Arctic outbreaks.

• Assessment of infrastructure resilience and recent upgrades following past extreme weather events.
• Discussion on the effectiveness of emergency response strategies and public communication.
• Recommendations for improving future preparedness based on lessons learned from past events.

Climate Crisis Intensifies

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• Recent data shows Earth set new global heat records last year, raising concerns among scientists.
• Scientists fear these records indicate an acceleration of climate change, nearing critical thresholds.
• Increased temperatures are linked to more severe weather events like heatwaves, floods, and wildfires.
• Record-breaking temperatures in 2023 were influenced by human-caused climate change and a strong El Niño.
• Deep ocean temperatures also set records, suggesting a potentially systematic issue in climate behavior.
• Most scientists attribute the primary cause of rising temperatures to greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels.
• There is debate among scientists about whether the rate of warming is accelerating or following predicted patterns.
• Recent years, including 2023, have been among the hottest on record, challenging the goals set by the Paris agreement.
• Many scientists express concern over the political challenges in addressing climate change effectively.
• The frequency of new temperature records being set is alarming, indicating a rapid and continual change in global climate.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the implications of recent global temperature records on the effectiveness of international climate agreements like the Paris Agreement.

• Review the goals set by the Paris Agreement, particularly the target to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
• Analyze the recent data indicating surpassing of global heat records and its alignment or deviation from these targets.
• Discuss the response of international bodies and nations in strengthening or modifying their commitments based on the latest climate data.
• Evaluate the role of national policies and their collective impact on global agreements.
• Assess the potential need for new frameworks or revisions in existing agreements to better address the accelerating pace of climate change.

Critically discuss the role of El Niño in the context of global warming trends observed over the past decade.

• Define El Niño and its typical impacts on global weather patterns.
• Correlate the occurrence of El Niño events with spikes in global temperatures, referencing recent data from 2023.
• Analyze how El Niño interacts with anthropogenic factors like greenhouse gas emissions to exacerbate global warming.
• Examine scientific opinions on whether recent El Niño events are behaving differently due to climate change.
• Discuss the challenges in predicting and mitigating the impacts of El Niño in the context of an altered global climate system.

Evaluate the statement by scientists that the acceleration of global warming is now more evident, considering the temperature anomalies recorded in 2023.

• Review the scientific basis for claiming an acceleration in global warming, including recent temperature records.
• Analyze the evidence supporting a shift from a steady increase to an accelerated warming phase.
• Discuss the potential causes cited by scientists for this perceived acceleration, including reduced particulate pollution and persistent greenhouse gas concentrations.
• Assess the implications of an accelerating warming trend on global climate patterns, ecosystems, and human societies.
• Consider the views of skeptics and proponents alike to provide a balanced evaluation of the acceleration theory.

Climate Collapse Mitigation

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• The travel and tourism industry significantly contributes to global GDP and employment but is threatened by climate-related disasters.
• Extreme weather events are escalating due to human-driven climate change, emphasizing the need for the industry to address its environmental impact.
• The industry’s carbon emissions are substantial, necessitating urgent action towards sustainability and emission reduction.
• Major sectors within the industry, such as hospitality and aviation, are adopting measures like ESG standards and exploring sustainable fuels and technologies.
• Global standards and criteria for sustainable tourism are being set and adopted by various countries to guide the industry towards responsible tourism.
• The industry aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, with interim goals for 2030 aligned with the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.
• Ongoing measurement, reporting, and transparency are crucial to ensure the industry remains on track to meet its sustainability goals.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

1. Critically examine the role of the travel and tourism industry in contributing to global carbon emissions and discuss the measures that can be taken to mitigate its impact.

• Travel and tourism’s contribution to global carbon emissions is significant, estimated at 8%.
• Adoption of sustainable practices such as using renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency in operations.
• Implementation of stricter environmental regulations and certifications like LEED or BREEAM for new and existing infrastructure.
• Encouragement of responsible tourism that includes preserving cultural heritage and promoting local employment.
• Development of innovative solutions like sustainable aviation fuels and electric planes to reduce emissions from transportation within the industry.

2. Evaluate the effectiveness of global sustainable tourism certifications like the GSTC in promoting responsible tourism practices within the travel and tourism industry.

• Definition and role of GSTC in setting universally recognized standards for sustainability in tourism.
• Analysis of the adoption rate of GSTC criteria by countries and businesses in the tourism sector.
• Impact of GSTC on improving environmental conservation, social responsibility, and economic viability in tourism.
• Challenges and limitations faced by GSTC in enforcing these standards globally.
• Future prospects of GSTC in enhancing sustainable tourism practices worldwide.

3. Discuss the potential long-term impacts of climate collapse on the travel and tourism industry and explain the strategic importance of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

• Immediate threats posed by climate collapse such as increased frequency of extreme weather events impacting tourist destinations.
• Economic risks including potential loss of jobs and GDP contribution from the travel and tourism sector due to environmental degradation.
• Strategic importance of the industry’s shift towards net-zero emissions to ensure its sustainability and resilience.
• Role of innovations like electric and hybrid planes, and sustainable fuels in achieving the 2050 net-zero goal.
• Importance of continuous monitoring, reporting, and transparency in tracking progress towards sustainability goals.

Rising Ocean Heat Content

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• The 2023 global ocean heat content reached 286 Zetajoules, 15 ZJ more than the previous year.
• This amount of heat is equivalent to the energy from about 4.6 billion Hiroshima bombs.
• Ocean warming is more pronounced in the Atlantic, North Pacific, Western Pacific, and Southern oceans compared to the global average.
• The ocean absorbs about 90% of the heat from global warming, influencing weather severity and patterns.
• Researchers used data from the World Ocean Database and analysis by groups like the Institute of Atmospheric Physics and NOAA.
• Significant long-term ocean warming has been observed, with a notable increase in the rate of warming since the late 1980s.
• El Nino events, which occurred strongly in 2023, are linked to peaks in ocean heat content trends.
• Record high global sea surface temperatures were recorded in 2023, influenced by the end of a three-year La Nina and the onset of El Nino.
• The year 2023 was the warmest on record, with significant increases in ocean stratification and salinity levels.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the implications of increasing ocean heat content on global climate patterns and extreme weather events.

• Increased ocean heat content leads to more intense and frequent extreme weather events such as hurricanes and typhoons due to higher sea surface temperatures.
• Enhanced evaporation rates from warmer oceans increase atmospheric moisture, contributing to heavier and more prolonged rainfall events, potentially leading to severe flooding.
• Shifts in climate patterns, such as alterations in the jet stream, can result from changes in the distribution of heat in the oceans, affecting weather patterns globally.

Critically evaluate the role of international cooperation in monitoring and mitigating the effects of ocean warming as described in recent scientific studies.

• International collaboration is crucial for comprehensive data collection across different oceans, as demonstrated by joint research efforts from multiple countries in the cited study.
• Sharing of technology and data, such as through the World Ocean Database, enhances understanding of oceanic changes and their impacts on a global scale.
• Joint mitigation efforts, such as agreements on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, are essential to address the root causes of ocean warming.

Discuss the significance of advancements in oceanographic research technology in understanding the changes in ocean heat content over the decades.

• Improvements in sensor technology and data collection methods, such as Argo floats, have allowed for more accurate and frequent measurements of ocean temperatures and salinity.
• Advancements in satellite technology provide broader coverage and detailed observation capabilities that contribute to more reliable ocean heat content data.
• Enhanced computational models help in better predicting changes in ocean heat content and their potential impacts on climate systems.

Jharkhand Drought Crisis

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains: 

• Jharkhand declared 158 blocks in 17 districts as drought-affected, impacting 1.5 million farmers.
• The state experienced 38% less rainfall than average during the 2023 monsoon, with only four districts receiving normal rainfall.
• Paddy sowing fell short of the 1.61 million hectares target, achieving only 282,000 hectares.
• Jharkhand has been declared drought-hit 10 times since its formation 23 years ago, with recent consecutive droughts in 2022 and 2023.
• The state government requested a special package from Niti Ayog for drought relief and to develop irrigation infrastructure.
• Only 20% of Jharkhand’s cultivable land is irrigated; expanding irrigation could enable crop diversification and enhance food grain cultivation.
• Experts suggest shifting focus from paddy to drought-resistant crops like pulses and oilseeds to adapt to recurring drought conditions.
• Despite the agricultural dependency, effective drought management and irrigation development have been lacking over the past 23 years.
• In response to ongoing drought challenges, the state planned to construct 100,000 wells and ponds and repair water management structures.
• The lifting of the ban on Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act works was directed to facilitate rural irrigation projects.

Questions & Hints for Mains & Interview: 

Examine the impact of recurrent droughts on the agricultural economy of Jharkhand and discuss the potential shifts in cropping patterns that could mitigate these effects.

• Overview of Jharkhand’s dependency on agriculture, particularly paddy cultivation.
• Impact of droughts on agricultural productivity and farmer income.
• Potential alternative crops like pulses and oilseeds that require less water.
• Benefits of crop diversification in terms of sustainability and economic stability.

Critically evaluate the role of government policies and infrastructure development in addressing the challenges of drought in Jharkhand.

• Assessment of existing irrigation facilities and their coverage.
• Effectiveness of government initiatives like building wells and ponds, and lifting the ban on MGNREGA works for water conservation.
• Need for a comprehensive drought management strategy including early warning systems, relief measures, and long-term planning.
• Role of public-private partnerships in enhancing irrigation infrastructure.

Discuss the implications of climate change on the frequency and severity of droughts in Jharkhand, and explain the strategic measures needed to enhance agricultural resilience.

• Link between climate change and increased incidence of extreme weather events like droughts.
• Current state of agricultural practices and their vulnerability to changing weather patterns.
• Importance of adopting climate-smart agricultural techniques.
• Role of government, NGOs, and international bodies in supporting adaptation strategies.