November 07th Current Affairs
Table of Contents
Participant and Non-Participant Observation
Home / Participant and Non-Participant Observation Participant Observation Meaning and Nature of Participant Observation Participant observation is a qualitative research
Schedule as a Data Collection Tool in Sociology
Home / Schedule as a Data Collection Tool in Sociology In sociological research, the accuracy and reliability of data depend
Interview as a Data Collection Method in Sociology
Home / Interview as a Data Collection Method in Sociology In sociological research, understanding human behavior, attitudes, and social processes
Questionnaire as a Quantitative Method
Home / Questionnaire as a Quantitative Method In social science research, the questionnaire is one of the most widely used
Census as a Quantitative Method
Home / Census as a Quantitative Method The census is one of the most comprehensive quantitative tools used in social
Survey as a Quantitative Method
Home / Survey as a Quantitative Method In sociological research, quantitative methods are essential for studying social phenomena in a
Techniques of Data Collection in Sociology
Home / Techniques of Data Collection in Sociology Techniques of data collection constitute one of the most significant components of
Qualitative Research Method in Sociology
Home / Qualitative Research Method in Sociology Qualitative research refers to an approach to social research that focuses on non-quantitative
Quantitative Research Method in Sociology
Home / Quantitative Research Method in Sociology Quantitative research refers to a systematic investigation of social phenomena through the collection
Research Methodology in Sociology
Home / Research Methodology in Sociology Research refers to a systematic, objective, and critical investigation of social reality with the
President Murmu to undertake 6-day visit to Angola, Botswana
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: International Relations
- Highlights India’s diplomatic outreach and strategic engagement with Africa through high-level visits.
- Strengthens bilateral ties with Angola and Botswana, reinforcing India’s Africa policy and South-South cooperation.
- Reflects India’s efforts to build partnerships in line with the “Global South” and “Voice of Global South Summit” vision.
- Demonstrates the role of India’s head of state in advancing diplomatic relations and deepening political cooperation.
- Enhances India’s soft power and multilateral influence in African regional blocs like SADC and AU.
GS Paper III: Indian Economy, Trade & Strategic Resources
- Focuses on expanding trade and investment with resource-rich African nations in sectors like energy, agriculture, and technology.
- Promotes economic diplomacy for securing raw materials, oil, and strategic minerals from Africa.
- Encourages collaboration in renewable energy, digital innovation, and sustainable development aligned with SDGs.
More About the News
- President Murmu will begin the six-day state visit on November 8, first to Angola (Nov 8-11), then to Botswana (Nov 11-13).
- Angola and Botswana receive the first ever Indian head-of-state visit, signalling expanded India–Africa partnership potential.
- The visit emphasises cooperation in energy, agriculture, technology, investment and trade under India’s Global South focus.
India-Africa Relations
India–Africa relations are rooted in shared colonial experiences, South–South cooperation, and mutual aspirations for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and a multipolar global order promoting equitable partnerships.
Overview
- Rooted in shared anti-colonial struggles and the vision of inclusive development, India–Africa ties emphasize mutual respect and partnership for progress.
- Collaboration spans diverse sectors—trade, health, education, energy and technology are anchored in South-South cooperation.
- As Nelson Mandela aptly noted, India and South Africa are connected by “bonds of sentiment and cultural kinship.”
Importance of Africa for India
- Demographic Dividend: Africa’s expanding youth population and rising urban middle class present immense opportunities for trade, innovation, and investment partnerships.
- Resource Security: Africa’s vast reserves of minerals like platinum, gold, cobalt and diamonds strengthen India’s supply chain resilience.
- Medical & Health Linkages: African nationals form over one-fifth of India’s medical tourism base, highlighting healthcare interdependence.
- Educational Partnership: With 25,000+ African students in India, higher education acts as a foundation for long-term diplomatic goodwill.
- Market Potential: India’s engagement with Africa’s consumer-driven economies like agribusiness, pharma and automobiles will boost mutual growth.
Areas of Cooperation
- Trade and Investment: Bilateral trade surpassing $100 billion (2023) reflects collaboration in agriculture, manufacturing, and tech sectors; Indian investments in Africa cross $98 billion.
- Infrastructure and Connectivity: Indian assistance in roads, power, and telecommunications enhances Africa’s developmental capacity.
- Capacity Building: Through ITEC and Pan-African e-Network programs, India shares expertise in digital governance, solar energy, and urban infrastructure.
- Agriculture & Food Security: Joint research on sustainable farming and the India–Africa Agriculture Cooperation Plan enhance productivity and resilience.
- Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: Supply of affordable generics for malaria, HIV/AIDS, and TB strengthens India’s reputation as the “pharmacy of the Global South.”
- Renewable Energy: Collaboration in solar and wind energy aligns with the International Solar Alliance and Africa’s green transition goals.
- Cultural & Educational Exchanges: Festivals, scholarships, and digital education initiatives (e-VidyaBharti, e-ArogyaBharti) enrich people-to-people connections.
Chinese Engagement in Africa
- China’s deepening footprint through Belt and Road investments, infrastructure loans, and peacekeeping roles poses competitive challenges to India.
- Concerns persist over debt sustainability, transparency, and local employment standards under Chinese-funded projects.
- Beijing’s military access to African ports and its aggressive resource acquisitions highlight the strategic contest in the region.
Issues and Challenges
- Geopolitical Rivalries: Africa’s emergence as a theatre for great power competition (China, USA, EU, Russia) complicates India’s strategic outreach.
- Policy Fragmentation: India’s Africa policy lacks the institutional coordination and financial scale of China’s engagement model.
- Security Concerns: Ongoing conflicts in Sudan, DRC, and Ethiopia threaten peacekeeping operations and economic investments.
- Image and Perception: Racial incidents in India occasionally strain goodwill and mutual trust.
- Strategic Distraction: India’s focus on Indo-Pacific priorities risks overshadowing its Africa engagement.
Instability and Implications for India
- Civil strife and governance crises disrupt access to key minerals like cobalt, crucial for India’s EV ambitions.
- Indian troops in UN peacekeeping missions face operational hazards, with fatalities in hotspots like the DRC.
- China’s stability-focused investments often allow it to consolidate influence during African political transitions.
Way Forward
- Political Revitalization: Revive the India–Africa Forum Summit and institutionalize annual high-level dialogues; appoint a dedicated Africa Secretary in MEA.
- Defence and Maritime Cooperation: Strengthen naval presence, deploy defence attachés, and extend Lines of Credit for defence exports and training.
- Economic Deepening: Launch an Africa Growth and Development Fund to boost infrastructure financing and project exports.
- Cultural Diplomacy: Establish an India–Africa Centre for Studies, promote cultural festivals, and rename scholarships after iconic African leaders.
Looking ahead, India–Africa ties will deepen through technology, renewable energy, digital connectivity, and education, strengthening strategic autonomy, food security, and resilient supply chains across the Global South.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following pairs of African lakes and their correct characteristics:
Lake — Characteristic
1. Lake Tanganyika – World’s longest freshwater lake and second deepest after Lake Baikal
2. Lake Victoria – Largest tropical lake in the world and source of the White Nile
3. Lake Chad – Expanding lake due to increased rainfall and glacial melt
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
Mains Question
Q. If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s. In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (PYQ 2021)
Tripura CM Manik Saha distributes skill development toolkits for Bru migrants, stresses self-respect and dignity
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & Rights
- Illustrates the role of the state government in empowering a vulnerable community (the Bru community) through inclusive policy and skill development.
- Relates to the rights of marginalized groups and dignity of life, reinforcing the constitutional obligation of the State towards tribal and displaced populations.
- Demonstrates inter-departmental coordination (11 departments linked under the scheme) and the administrative accountability of public policy for social justice.
- Emphasises participatory governance, with skill-toolkit distribution enabling self-reliance instead of passive welfare, thereby enhancing agency of the beneficiaries.
GS Paper III: Economy, Sectors & Infrastructure, Social Sector & Services
- Connects to livelihood promotion, skill training and entrepreneurship among disadvantaged groups, which is relevant for social sector interventions.
- Reflects the link between human capital development, state budget allocations (e.g., nearly 40 % budget for tribal-dominated areas) and regional economic development.
- Highlights infrastructure and skill investment as strategic tools for inclusive growth in tribal and resettled areas, aligning with sustainable development goals.
More About the News
- The Manik Saha-led Tripura government distributed skill-toolkits to Bru migrants to foster self-respect, dignity and meaningful livelihood.
- The scheme forms part of state’s broader skill-training drive under the Tripura Skill & Entrepreneurship Policy 2024, with focus on renewable energy and AI.
- Budget allocation emphasised tribal development: about ₹6,645 crore (~39 %) went to tribal areas in 2024-25, and over 40 % of next year’s budget is reserved.
Bru Refugee Crisis
The Bru or Reang refugee crisis highlights the persistent challenges of ethnic identity, displacement, and rehabilitation in India’s Northeast, revealing the delicate balance between security, governance, and human rights.
Background
- The Bru (Reang) are an ethnic tribe native to Mizoram, also found in Tripura and parts of Assam.
- In 1997, ethnic clashes erupted between Mizo and Bru communities, following the killing of a Mizo forest guard by suspected Bru militants.
- Fearing violence, over 35,000 Brus fled Mizoram and took shelter in relief camps in Tripura, leading to a decades-long humanitarian issue.
- Multiple attempts at repatriation failed due to security concerns, lack of trust, and inadequate rehabilitation measures.
Recent Triggers
- Slow implementation of the 2020 quadripartite agreement between Centre, Tripura, Mizoram, and Bru leaders.
- Political and social tensions over land allocation, local integration, and electoral participation in Tripura.
- Demand for inclusion in welfare and reservation benefits by newly settled Brus causing local resentment.
Impact on India’s Internal Security and Border Management
- The crisis occurs near the India–Bangladesh border, heightening risks of cross-border infiltration and illegal movement.
- Presence of armed groups and ethnic militias in the region complicates security operations.
- Porous terrain, forest cover, and multiple ethnic identities make surveillance and identification difficult.
- Prolonged displacement creates humanitarian and administrative burdens, affecting development and stability in border districts.
Challenges Faced in Curbing the Crisis
- Coordination issues among Centre and Northeast states over repatriation and settlement.
- Resistance from host communities in Tripura fearing demographic imbalance and competition for resources.
- Lack of livelihood opportunities and poor infrastructure in new settlement areas.
- Inadequate documentation and enumeration of refugees affecting welfare distribution and security checks.
The 2020 Agreement
- Quadripartite agreement signed in January 2020 between Government of India, Tripura, Mizoram, and Bru community representatives.
- Allowed permanent resettlement of over 34,000 Brus in Tripura, ending decades of uncertainty.
- Each family to receive ₹1.5 lakh housing aid, ₹4 lakh fixed deposit, ₹5,000 monthly stipend for 2 years, and free rations for 2 years.
- Land parcels identified in eight Tripura districts for rehabilitation.
- Emphasised citizenship rights, inclusion in electoral rolls, and access to welfare schemes.
Way Forward
- Speedy and transparent implementation of the 2020 agreement to build community confidence.
- Skill development and livelihood creation to ensure economic self-reliance of rehabilitated Brus.
- Community integration programmes to reduce ethnic distrust with local populations.
- Enhanced border surveillance and cooperation among security forces for preventing cross-border exploitation.
- Institutional monitoring mechanism for long-term peacebuilding and social inclusion in the Northeast.
The Bru rehabilitation marks a crucial test for India’s inclusive governance. Sustainable integration, trust-building, and secure border management will define lasting peace and stability in the Northeast frontier.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following pairs: (PYQ 2013)
Tribe — State
1. Limboo (Limbu) — Sikkim
2. Karbi — Himachal Pradesh
3. Dongaria Kondh — Odisha
4. Bonda — Tamil Nadu
Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
Mains Question
Q. What are the major challenges to internal security and the peace process in the North-Eastern States? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the past decade. (PYQ 2025)
Govt panel working on new SEZ norms for exporters to access domestic market
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper III: Economy, Trade & Strategic Economic Management
- Directly pertains to export-import policy, SEZ norms, and broader trade strategy which are central to India’s external economic engagement.
- Relates to manufacturing competitiveness, duty exemptions, domestic market access for SEZ units and implications for trade balance and industry.
- Links to strategic resource utilisation, value-chain management, and the need for R&D, investment in SEZs to boost manufacturing and economic growth.
More About the News
- A government panel comprising officials from the Commerce Ministry and NITI Aayog is working on new SEZ norms to allow export-units access to India’s domestic market in light of US tariff pressure.
- In FY25, exports from SEZs stood at US $172 billion, yet only about 2 % of production was sold in the domestic market, showing under-utilisation of capacity.
- Exporters are pressing for a “reverse job work” policy allowing SEZ units to engage in domestic market production, while concerns about duty-exemption fairness to domestic industry remain.
Special Economic Zones (SEZ)
Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are designated duty-free enclaves that aim to attract foreign investment, boost exports, and promote industrial development by offering liberal trade and fiscal incentives.
Overview
- SEZs are geographically demarcated areas with special administrative, tax, and regulatory regimes to encourage manufacturing, exports, and employment.
- They act as growth hubs for global value chains, integrating India’s production into international trade networks.
- SEZs were conceptualised to replicate the success of export processing zones (EPZs) with greater autonomy and flexibility.
Statutory Provisions
- Governed by the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005 and SEZ Rules, 2006.
- Implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Key provisions include:
- Single-window clearance and self-certification system.
- Exemption from customs duties, GST, and income tax (for a defined period).
- Deemed foreign territory status for trade operations and duties.
- Empowerment of Development Commissioners for SEZ administration.
Need for SEZs
- To enhance export competitiveness and reduce trade logistics bottlenecks.
- To attract foreign direct investment (FDI) through investor-friendly policy regimes.
- To generate employment and create regional growth clusters.
- To promote infrastructure development in underdeveloped regions.
- To simplify regulatory procedures and create ease of doing business ecosystems.
Achievements of SEZs
- Over 270 operational SEZs across India contributing significantly to export growth, especially in IT, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.
- SEZs contributed over 30% of India’s total exports in recent years.
- Generated employment for millions, including a significant share of women workers.
- Attracted both domestic and foreign investment in infrastructure and services.
Challenges Faced
- Underutilisation of approved SEZs — many remain non-operational due to land and policy issues.
- Loss of tax revenue due to exemptions and WTO scrutiny over “export-linked subsidies.”
- Rigid regulatory framework and sunset clauses reducing investor interest.
- Global slowdown and pandemic impacted export demand.
- Competition from ASEAN nations’ Free Trade Zones (FTZs) offering better incentives.
- Policy uncertainty regarding direct domestic market access for SEZ units.
Recommendations by Committees
- Baba Kalyani Committee (2018):
- Proposed transforming SEZs into Employment and Economic Enclaves (EoEs).
- Suggested flexibility for sale in the domestic market, rationalised tax structures, and stronger linkages with domestic industries.
- Recommended integration with logistics and industrial corridors.
- Parthasarathi Shome Committee: Highlighted need for policy stability and simplification of exit and tax rules.
- Baba Kalyani Committee (2018):
Government Initiatives Taken
- SEZ Amendment Rules (2019) – liberalised minimum land area norms.
- Proposal to replace SEZ Act with DESH Bill (Development of Enterprise and Service Hubs) – to modernise the framework.
- Ease of Doing Business reforms through online approvals and green channel clearances.
- Integration with PM Gati Shakti and National Logistics Policy for better connectivity.
- Focus on sunrise sectors like semiconductors, renewable energy, and electronics under new industrial policies.
Way Forward
- Enact DESH Bill to create a modern, WTO-compliant, investment-friendly ecosystem.
- Encourage public-private partnerships for infrastructure and logistics integration.
- Foster domestic-SEZ linkages to strengthen supply chains.
- Promote sector-specific SEZs (e.g., green energy, defence, AI) to meet emerging global demand.
- Ensure policy stability and fiscal transparency to rebuild investor confidence.
SEZs can drive India’s global competitiveness if restructured into flexible, inclusive, and innovation-driven zones that integrate domestic value chains with global markets, fostering sustainable industrial and employment growth.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements: (PYQ 2009)
1. The first telegraph line in India was laid between Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) and Diamond Harbour.
2. The first Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in India was set up in Kandla.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. There is a clear acknowledgement that Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are a tool of industrial development, manufacturing and exports. Recognizing this potential, the whole instrumentality of SEZs requires augmentation. Discuss the issue plaguing the success of SEZs with respect to taxation, governing laws and administration. (PYQ 2015)
Trump says Kazakhstan to join Abraham Accords
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: International Relations
- The inclusion of Kazakhstan into the Abraham Accords underscores shifting alliances and new diplomatic coalitions in the West Asia–Central Asia corridor, spotlighting India’s external environment.
- It reflects the interplay of major-power competition (US, Russia, China) in Central Asia, thereby informing India’s strategic calculus in that region and its foreign-policy outreach
- Central Asia’s emergence (Kazakhstan’s strategic location between Russia, China and West Asia) has geographical-strategic significance for India’s “extended neighbourhood” policy.
- Demonstrates how diplomacy in one region (West Asia) now overlaps with another (Central Asia), reinforcing interconnectedness of global regions via diplomacy and security.
More about the News
- US President Donald Trump announced that Kazakhstan will join the Abraham Accords, the diplomatic normalisation pact first brokered between Israel and Arab/Muslim nations.
- Though Kazakhstan already has full diplomatic and economic ties with Israel since 1992, the move is largely symbolic but reinvigorates the Accords amid stalled expansion.
- The announcement came during a summit of Central Asian leaders at the White House, signalling the US push for greater influence in a region once dominated by Russia and China.
Abraham Accords
The Abraham Accords, signed in 2020, mark a historic shift in West Asian geopolitics, normalizing relations between Israel and key Arab nations, reshaping regional diplomacy and security alignments.
Evolution
- Initiated under U.S. mediation (Trump Administration) to stabilize West Asia through normalization of Arab–Israel relations.
- Named after Abraham, the patriarch common to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—symbolizing interfaith peace.
- Officially signed at the White House on September 15, 2020 between Israel, UAE, and Bahrain.
- Later joined by Sudan and Morocco under similar frameworks.
Objectives
- Promote peaceful coexistence and cooperation between Israel and Arab states.
- Strengthen economic, technological, and security partnerships in the Middle East.
- Counter Iranian influence in the region.
- Foster U.S.-led regional stability and reduce dependence on military interventions.
Countries Involved
- Core signatories: Israel, UAE, Bahrain.
- Later participants: Sudan and Morocco.
- Mediating country: United States.
- Potential future members: Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kazakhstan (recently announced intent)
Significance
- Breaks decades of Arab–Israeli hostility, opening avenues for trade, tourism, and defense cooperation.
- Strengthens the U.S.–Israel–Arab strategic triangle against common threats.
- Enhances technological and innovation exchanges, especially in renewable energy and cybersecurity.
- Promotes regional connectivity and maritime cooperation from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean.
Advancements Since Its Origin
- Establishment of direct flights, embassies, and business councils between Israel and Gulf states.
- Abraham Fund created to promote joint investments in infrastructure and innovation.
- Cooperation in defense technology, renewable energy, and water management.
- Expansion talks to include Saudi Arabia and Central Asian nations.
Shortcomings
- Fails to address the Palestinian issue, reducing credibility in the Arab world.
- Seen by some as U.S.-centric power projection, lacking regional inclusivity.
- Risk of geopolitical polarization between Iran-led and U.S.-led blocs.
- Domestic opposition in some Arab states limits public endorsement.
Impact on India’s Interests
- Strategic convergence: India benefits from a stable West Asia—vital for energy, trade, and diaspora security.
- Economic gains: Potential to expand India–Israel–UAE trilateral cooperation in energy, logistics, and fintech.
- Geopolitical balance: Helps India navigate ties with Israel and Arab states simultaneously.
- Maritime security: Strengthens India’s role in the IOR–Middle East connectivity corridor.
Challenges Faced
- Volatile Iran–Israel tensions could destabilize the region.
- Risk of backlash among Arab populations sympathetic to Palestine.
- Dependency on changing U.S. foreign policy priorities.
- Ongoing Gaza–Israel conflict strains normalization momentum.
Way Forward
- Encourage inclusive peace talks involving Palestine.
- Broaden cooperation in climate, health, and digital diplomacy beyond defense.
- Promote India–UAE–Israel trilateral frameworks as models of economic integration.
- Strengthen people-to-people ties to sustain long-term normalization.
The Abraham Accords herald a new era of pragmatic diplomacy in West Asia, where shared prosperity, technological partnerships, and inclusive dialogue can ensure lasting peace and regional stability.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements: (PYQ 2023)
Statement–I: Israel has established diplomatic relations with some Arab States.
Statement–II: The ‘Arab Peace Initiative’ mediated by Saudi Arabia was signed by Israel and Arab League.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Mains Question
Q. India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back. Discuss. (PYQ 2018)
At U.N. climate summit, world leaders say time is running short to stop the worst effects of warming
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper III: Environment, Disaster & Risk Management
- Directly pertains to the climate-change challenge, global warming, emissions reduction, the risk of crossing tipping points and these are central to environment and risk‐management themes.
- Underscores the urgency of preventive environmental strategy, adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development.
- Touches on global environmental treaties, climate finance and cross-border environmental risks which feed into India’s environment and disaster preparedness frameworks.
More about the News
- At the upcoming COP30 in Belém, Brazil, global leaders warned that time is rapidly running out to avert the worst effects of climate change and exceed 1.5 °C warming.
- The UN Secretary-General called failure to meet the 1.5 °C threshold a “moral failure and deadly negligence” stressing every fraction of a degree entails more hunger, displacement and loss.
- Brazil’s President announced a new Tropical Forests Forever Facility for preserving rainforests and mobilising funds, but major developed nations’ participation remains uncertain.
Global Warming
Global warming refers to the long-term rise in Earth’s average surface temperature due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, primarily from human activities like industrialization, deforestation, and fossil fuel combustion.
Causes of Global Warming
Natural Causes:
- Solar radiation variations – Fluctuations in solar output affect Earth’s temperature cycles.
- Volcanic eruptions – Emit CO₂ and aerosols, temporarily altering atmospheric composition.
- Ocean currents and El Niño phenomena – Natural variations that redistribute heat globally.
- Natural greenhouse effect – Water vapor, methane, and CO₂ naturally trap heat.
Anthropogenic (Human-Induced) Causes:
- Burning of fossil fuels – Major source of CO₂ and nitrous oxides.
- Deforestation – Reduces carbon sinks, increases atmospheric CO₂.
- Industrial emissions – Release of GHGs from manufacturing and energy sectors.
- Agriculture – Methane from livestock and rice paddies, nitrous oxides from fertilizers.
- Urbanization and transport – High carbon footprint due to fuel use and infrastructure growth.
Potential of Global Warming
- IPCC warns global temperature could rise by 1.5°C–2°C by 2050 without immediate mitigation.
- Melting ice caps could raise sea levels by 0.3–1 meter by 2100.
- Global GDP losses may reach 2–4% annually in high-risk regions.
Effects on Environment
- Accelerated glacial melting and sea-level rise leading to coastal flooding.
- Increased frequency of extreme weather events – cyclones, droughts, and heatwaves.
- Desertification and land degradation in arid regions.
- Coral bleaching and loss of marine biodiversity.
Effects on Ecosystem
- Habitat loss and species extinction (especially in Arctic and tropical regions).
- Altered migration and breeding cycles of birds and aquatic species.
- Collapse of food webs due to ocean acidification and deforestation.
Socio-Economic and Health Impacts
- Agricultural stress – Decline in crop yields and food security.
- Water scarcity due to changing precipitation patterns.
- Economic displacement from climate-induced migration.
- Health risks – Vector-borne diseases, heat stress, and malnutrition.
- Threat to energy and infrastructure stability due to rising temperatures.
Challenges in Curbing Global Warming
- Dependence on fossil fuels and slow renewable adoption.
- Insufficient global coordination and weak enforcement of climate commitments.
- Financial and technological barriers in developing nations.
- Carbon inequality – Disparity between developed and developing countries’ emissions.
- Political resistance from vested industrial interests.
Global Groupings and Initiatives
- UNFCCC (1992) – Foundational treaty for global climate cooperation.
- Kyoto Protocol (1997) – Legally binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.
- Paris Agreement (2015) – Global pact to limit warming to below 2°C.
- IPCC – Scientific body providing climate assessments and projections.
- COP Summits – Annual negotiations under the UNFCCC framework.
- GCF (Green Climate Fund) – Financing adaptation and mitigation in developing nations.
India’s Role and Initiatives
- Panchamrit Commitments (COP26, Glasgow):
- 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030.
- 50% energy from renewables by 2030.
- Reduce emissions intensity by 45%.
- Cut total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes.
- Achieve Net Zero by 2070.
- Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) – Promotes sustainable consumption and individual responsibility for reducing emissions.
- National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) – 8 missions including solar, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture.
- Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) – Updated targets under Paris Agreement.
- ISA (International Solar Alliance) – Global initiative led by India to promote solar energy.
- C40 Cities Network & Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) – Urban climate resilience partnerships.
- Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme – Industrial energy efficiency mechanism.
- Panchamrit Commitments (COP26, Glasgow):
Way Forward
- Strengthen renewable energy infrastructure and storage systems.
- Promote carbon pricing and green financing mechanisms.
- Enhance climate education and awareness at local levels.
- Invest in R&D for carbon capture and sustainable materials.
- Strengthen climate-resilient agriculture and infrastructure.
- Foster inclusive global cooperation ensuring equity between developed and developing nations.
Tackling global warming demands collective responsibility, technological innovation, and behavioral change where nations, industries and individuals collaborate to achieve a carbon-neutral, resilient, and sustainable global future.
Prelims MCQ
Q. “Climate Action Tracker” which monitors the emission reduction pledges of different countries is a: (PYQ 2022)
Mains Question
Q. Discuss global warming and mention its effects on global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gasses which cause global warming in the light of the Kyoto Protocol 1997. (PYQ 2022)
