{"id":2099,"date":"2024-10-23T06:43:32","date_gmt":"2024-10-23T06:43:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/?p=2099"},"modified":"2024-10-23T11:57:14","modified_gmt":"2024-10-23T11:57:14","slug":"current-affair-19-october-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"Current Affair &#8211; 19 October 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Child_Betrothals_are_a_Ploy_to_Evade_Punishment_Supreme_Court\" >Child Betrothals are a Ploy to Evade Punishment: Supreme Court<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Context\" >Context<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Important_Aspects\" >Important Aspects<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Supreme_Court_Observations_on_Child_Betrothals\" >Supreme Court Observations on Child Betrothals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Recommendations_from_the_Court\" >Recommendations from the Court<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Additional_Facts_and_Analysis\" >Additional Facts and Analysis<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Benami_law_Supreme_Court_recalls_2022_judgment_that_declared_amendments_unconstitutional\" >Benami law: Supreme Court recalls 2022 judgment that declared amendments unconstitutional<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Context-2\" >Context<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Supreme_Court_Action_October_2024\" >Supreme Court Action (October 2024)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Additional_Facts\" >Additional Facts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion-2\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Israel_versus_the_UN_On_Tel_Avivs_move_and_Indias_response\" >Israel versus the UN: On Tel Aviv\u2019s move and India\u2019s response<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-2\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Context-3\" >Context<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Aspect\" >Aspect<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#United_Nations_Interim_Force_in_Lebanon_UNIFIL\" >United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Relevance_for_India\" >Relevance for India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Challenges\" >Challenges<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Significance\" >Significance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion-3\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#All_eyes_on_Modi_Xi_at_BRICS_summit_in_Russia_as_Delhi_and_Beijing_announce_visits\" >All eyes on Modi, Xi at BRICS summit in Russia as Delhi and Beijing announce visits<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-3\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Theme_for_16th_BRICS_Summit_in_Russia\" >Theme for 16th BRICS Summit in Russia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Expected_Outcomes\" >Expected Outcomes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Background_Context\" >Background Context<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Economic_Significance\" >Economic Significance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Russias_Vision\" >Russia\u2019s Vision<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#BRICS_Summit\" >BRICS Summit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Objectives\" >Objectives:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#India_and_BRICS\" >India and BRICS<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion-4\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#House_panel_to_study_armed_forces_preparedness_to_deal_with_%E2%80%98non-kinetic_warfare\" >House panel to study armed forces\u2019 preparedness to deal with \u2018non-kinetic warfare\u2019<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-4\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Context-4\" >Context<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#What_is_Non-Kinetic_Warfare\" >What is Non-Kinetic Warfare?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Differences_Between_Kinetic_and_Non-Kinetic_Warfare\" >Differences Between Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Warfare<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Counter-Drone_Technologies\" >Counter-Drone Technologies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Strategic_Operational_Preparedness\" >Strategic Operational Preparedness<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Indigenous_Defence_Production\" >Indigenous Defence Production<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Key_Initiatives_in_Future_Warfare_Training\" >Key Initiatives in Future Warfare Training<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Additional_Relevant_Facts\" >Additional Relevant Facts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Recommended_Steps_for_Armed_Forces\" >Recommended Steps for Armed Forces:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion-5\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#How_%E2%80%98smart_insulin_promises_to_revolutionise_diabetes_treatment\" >How \u2018smart insulin\u2019 promises to revolutionise diabetes treatment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-5\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Overview\" >Overview<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Global_Diabetes_Statistics\" >Global Diabetes Statistics<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Types_of_Diabetes\" >Types of Diabetes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Current_Treatment_Challenges\" >Current Treatment Challenges<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Smart_Insulin_NNC2215\" >Smart Insulin: NNC2215<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Mechanism_of_Action\" >Mechanism of Action:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Clinical_Implications\" >Clinical Implications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion-6\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-57\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Usurious_pricing_by_NBFCs_apps_Why_the_RBI_acted_against_4_entities_and_how_borrowers_end_up_paying_excessive_interest\" >Usurious pricing by NBFCs, apps: Why the RBI acted against 4 entities and how borrowers end up paying excessive interest<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-58\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-6\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-59\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#What_is_a_Non-Banking_Financial_Company_NBFC\" >What is a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-60\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Current_Scenario\" >Current Scenario<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-61\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Background\" >Background<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-62\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Regulatory_Concerns\" >Regulatory Concerns<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-63\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Recent_Developments\" >Recent Developments<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-64\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Digital_Loan_App_Repository\" >Digital Loan App Repository<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-65\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Case_Study_Harassment_Incident\" >Case Study: Harassment Incident<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-66\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion-7\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-67\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Environment\" >Environment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-68\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#A_perilous_highway_to_salvation_in_the_Himalayas\" >A perilous highway to salvation in the Himalayas<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-69\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-7\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-70\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Overview-2\" >Overview<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-71\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Aspects_of_the_Char_Dham_Highway_Project\" >Aspects of the Char Dham Highway Project<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-72\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Impact_of_the_Char_Dham_Highway_Project\" >Impact of the Char Dham Highway Project<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-73\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Additional_Facts-2\" >Additional Facts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-74\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Forecasting_better_in_India_come_rain_or_shine\" >Forecasting better in India, come rain or shine<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-75\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-8\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-76\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Overview-3\" >Overview<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-77\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Objectives_of_Mission_Mausam\" >Objectives of Mission Mausam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-78\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Issues_and_Proposed_Solutions\" >Issues and Proposed Solutions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-79\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Enhancing_Weather_Preparedness\" >Enhancing Weather Preparedness<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-80\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Way_Forward_for_Weather_Forecasting_in_India\" >Way Forward for Weather Forecasting in India<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-81\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#There_is_a_start-up_revolution_in_India\" >There is a start-up revolution in India<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-82\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Why_in_News-9\" >Why in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-83\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Overview-4\" >Overview<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-84\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Facts_and_Statistics\" >Facts and Statistics<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-85\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Contributing_Factors_to_the_Start-Up_Ecosystem\" >Contributing Factors to the Start-Up Ecosystem<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-86\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Impacts_of_the_Initiatives\" >Impacts of the Initiatives<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-87\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/#Conclusion-8\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Child_Betrothals_are_a_Ploy_to_Evade_Punishment_Supreme_Court\"><\/span><strong>Child Betrothals are a Ploy to Evade Punishment: Supreme Court<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe Supreme Court urges Parliament to outlaw child betrothals, drawing attention to how they threaten laws like the POCSO Act; the Court also issues guidelines on sex education in schools and a compensation scheme for girls.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Context\"><\/span><strong>Context<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Supreme Court of India, in its recent judgment, condemned child betrothals, considering them a ploy to evade punishment under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006. The Court called for stronger legislation to address this issue, recognizing the detrimental impact of child marriages on the autonomy and rights of minors.<\/p>\n<p>The bench also emphasized the importance of sex education and community-driven initiatives to prevent child marriages.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Aspects\"><\/span><strong>Important Aspects<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Aspect<\/th>\n<th>Details<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Issue Addressed<\/td>\n<td>Child betrothals used to bypass PCMA.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Main Concern<\/td>\n<td>Lack of clarity in PCMA on child betrothals.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Legal Provisions<\/td>\n<td>PCMA, POCSO Act, Juvenile Justice Act.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>International Convention<\/td>\n<td>Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Guidelines Issued<\/td>\n<td>Recommendations for sex education, child marriage reporting, compensation schemes.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Supreme_Court_Observations_on_Child_Betrothals\"><\/span><strong>Supreme Court Observations on Child Betrothals<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Child Betrothals:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Recognized as a loophole bypassing legal consequences under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA).<\/li>\n<li>Urged Parliament to classify children with fixed marriages as \u201cminors in need of care and protection\u201d under the Juvenile Justice Act.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Impact on Personal Laws:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Noted the conflict between personal laws and PCMA.<\/li>\n<li>The Central government seeks judicial declaration for PCMA to prevail over personal laws; an Amendment Bill from December 2021 is pending in Parliament.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Boys as Victims:<\/strong> Highlighted that boys also suffer from child marriages, facing societal pressures and patriarchal norms.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Violation of POCSO Act:<\/strong> Clarified that child marriages violate the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, exposing minors to sexual abuse.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommendations_from_the_Court\"><\/span><strong>Recommendations from the Court<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Age-Appropriate Sex Education:<\/strong> Suggested implementing culturally sensitive sexuality education in schools to raise awareness about child marriage and sexual rights.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Community-Driven Initiatives:<\/strong> Recommended a \u2018Child Marriage Free Village\u2019 campaign, engaging local leaders similar to the \u2018Open Defecation Free Village\u2019 initiative.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Government Action Plan:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Establish a designated portal for reporting child marriages (Ministry of Home Affairs).<\/li>\n<li>Introduce a compensation scheme for girls opting out of child marriages (Ministry of Women and Child Development).<\/li>\n<li>Allocate an annual budget to prevent child marriages and support affected minors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_Facts_and_Analysis\"><\/span><strong>Additional Facts and Analysis<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Child Marriage Statistics in India:<\/strong> According to UNICEF (2023), 23.3% of girls in India are married before the age of 18. Child marriage rates are particularly high in rural areas and among marginalized communities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Global Comparison:<\/strong> Countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Ethiopia have launched national strategies to end child marriage, including community involvement and education drives.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CEDAW and India:<\/strong> India ratified CEDAW in 1993, committing to eliminate discrimination against women, including the issue of child marriage.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Supreme Court&#8217;s ruling on child betrothals highlights the need for stronger laws against child marriage, promoting comprehensive education and community initiatives to protect minors&#8217; rights and autonomy in India.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benami_law_Supreme_Court_recalls_2022_judgment_that_declared_amendments_unconstitutional\"><\/span><strong>Benami law: Supreme Court recalls 2022 judgment that declared amendments unconstitutional<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Bench, headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, referred the case for fresh adjudication.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Context-2\"><\/span><strong>Context<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988, was enacted to curb the practice of holding property in another person&#8217;s name, commonly known as benami transactions. The 2016 Amendment significantly expanded the original Act, allowing stringent actions like imprisonment and property confiscation. However, in 2022, the Supreme Court ruled parts of the amendment unconstitutional, citing concerns over retrospective application and violation of constitutional rights. On October 18, 2024, the Supreme Court recalled this 2022 judgement, referring the case for fresh adjudication.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Supreme_Court_Action_October_2024\"><\/span><strong>Supreme Court Action (October 2024)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Recall of 2022 Judgment:<\/strong> The Special Bench, led by Chief Justice, recalled its earlier judgment from August 23, 2022, concerning benami transactions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Background:<\/strong> The recall followed review petitions from the Union Government and the Deputy Commissioner of Income Tax (Benami Prohibition).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Issues with 2022 Judgment:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>The 2022 ruling declared Section 3(2) of the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988, and Section 5 of the 2016 Amendment unconstitutional due to their retrospective application, violating Article 20(1) (prohibition of retrospective punishment).<\/li>\n<li>Section 3(2) imposed a three-year imprisonment for transactions between 1988 and 2016, despite the 2016 amendment&#8217;s enactment date.<\/li>\n<li>Section 5 permitted government confiscation of properties involved in benami transactions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_Facts\"><\/span><strong>Additional Facts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Benami Transactions:<\/strong> A benami transaction refers to an arrangement where the property is held by one person but paid for by another, typically to hide illicit wealth.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Retrospective Legislation:<\/strong> Retrospective laws apply to actions that occurred before the law was passed, which often creates constitutional challenges, particularly concerning fundamental rights like Article 20(1).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-2\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The 2024 Supreme Court decision highlights the need for clarity on the constitutional validity of retrospective legislation in financial and property-related laws. The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act plays a crucial role in curbing illicit property holdings, but its amendments need careful scrutiny to balance constitutional rights with the objective of curbing black money.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Israel_versus_the_UN_On_Tel_Avivs_move_and_Indias_response\"><\/span><strong>Israel versus the UN: On Tel Aviv\u2019s move and India\u2019s response<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-2\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India\u2019s stand must keep in mind the UN\u2019s importance in the global order.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Context-3\"><\/span><strong>Context<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India\u2019s decision to stay away from a letter supporting UN Secretary-General Ant\u00f3nio Guterres amidst Israeli criticism raises concerns about New Delhi\u2019s position. The criticism stems from Israel\u2019s actions against the UN system following its conflict with Hamas and broader military actions.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Aspect\"><\/span><strong>Aspect<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Details<\/th>\n<th><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Event Trigger<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Israel\u2019s October 2023 military operations post Hamas terror attacks, expanding into attacks on Lebanon, Yemen, and covert operations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Israel\u2019s Stance on UN<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Israel accused the UN and its agencies of bias, with Israeli leaders labeling the UN as \u201canti-semitic.\u201d Attacks were even directed at UN peacekeepers.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>India\u2019s Position<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>India abstained from supporting a UN letter signed by 104 countries that criticized Israel\u2019s actions against the UN and Secretary-General Guterres.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>UNRWA Targeting<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Israel targeted UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency), accusing it of links with Hamas. India has historically supported UNRWA.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Risks to India<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Indian soldiers are part of the UNIFIL (UN Interim Force in Lebanon), which has been under attack by Israeli forces, increasing security risks for them.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Global South\u2019s Unease<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Many countries from the Global South, along with European nations, signed letters expressing concern over Israel\u2019s actions against the UN.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>India\u2019s Strategic Calculation<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>India\u2019s diplomatic stance is likely influenced by its close bilateral ties with Israel and its desire to balance realpolitik with UN engagement.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"United_Nations_Interim_Force_in_Lebanon_UNIFIL\"><\/span><strong>United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Establishment:<\/strong> 1978, in response to Israeli invasion of Lebanon.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Objective:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Monitor the cessation of hostilities.<\/li>\n<li>Assist the Lebanese government in restoring authority in southern Lebanon.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure peace and security along the Israel-Lebanon border.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Composition:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Over 10,000 personnel from around 50 nations.<\/li>\n<li>India is a key contributor with 903 soldiers deployed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Key Role:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Acts as a buffer between Israel and Lebanon, preventing escalation of conflicts.<\/li>\n<li>Provides humanitarian aid and assists in conflict-affected regions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Relevance_for_India\"><\/span><strong>Relevance for India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>India\u2019s participation strengthens its global peacekeeping profile.<\/li>\n<li>Risks involved: Recent Israeli attacks on UNIFIL forces highlight dangers, particularly for Indian troops.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges\"><\/span><strong>Challenges<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Increasing tensions in the region pose threats to peacekeepers.<\/li>\n<li>The effectiveness of the mission is often questioned due to recurrent violence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Significance\"><\/span><strong>Significance<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Reflects India\u2019s commitment to global peacekeeping under the UN framework. Enhances India\u2019s diplomatic standing and involvement in international security.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-3\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India&#8217;s abstention on a UN letter critiquing Israel raises concerns about its multilateralism amid strategic partnerships and global order commitments.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"All_eyes_on_Modi_Xi_at_BRICS_summit_in_Russia_as_Delhi_and_Beijing_announce_visits\"><\/span><strong>All eyes on Modi, Xi at BRICS summit in Russia as Delhi and Beijing announce visits<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-3\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>PM Modi&#8217;s second Russia visit in 2024 will feature bilateral meetings with BRICS leaders and invited global counterparts.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><strong>Introduction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Indian Prime Minister is set to attend the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, from October 22-23, 2024, at the invitation of the Russian President. The summit is expected to focus on strengthening multilateralism and addressing key global issues.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Theme_for_16th_BRICS_Summit_in_Russia\"><\/span><strong>Theme for 16th BRICS Summit in Russia<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><em>\u201cStrengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expected_Outcomes\"><\/span><strong>Expected Outcomes<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Bilateral Meetings:<\/strong> Focusing on regional and global issues.<\/li>\n<li><strong>China&#8217;s Participation:<\/strong> Anticipation of a bilateral meeting between India and China.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strategic Dialogue:<\/strong> Discussions will cover ongoing international challenges, particularly concerning the India-China border standoff.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Background_Context\"><\/span><strong>Background Context<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Original Members:<\/strong> Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa<\/li>\n<li><strong>Expanded Membership:<\/strong> Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, United Arab Emirates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Significance\"><\/span><strong>Economic Significance<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Russia emphasizes that BRICS nations are poised to drive global economic growth, reducing reliance on Western influence and enhancing economic sovereignty.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Russias_Vision\"><\/span><strong>Russia\u2019s Vision<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The position of BRICS as a counterweight to Western powers in global politics and trade.<\/li>\n<li>The countries associated with BRICS are essentially the drivers of global economic growth.<\/li>\n<li>Emphasis on increasing freight transportation through the Arctic Sea route and North-South corridor, linking Eurasia with the Indian Ocean.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"BRICS_Summit\"><\/span><strong>BRICS Summit<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>BRICS is an acronym for the grouping of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Purpose:<\/strong> To promote peace, security, and development in a multipolar world. Enhance cooperation in various sectors, including economy, trade, investment, and cultural exchange.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Objectives\"><\/span><strong>Objectives:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Strengthening economic ties among member countries.<\/li>\n<li>Reforming global governance structures to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities.<\/li>\n<li>Addressing issues like poverty alleviation, sustainable development, and climate change.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"India_and_BRICS\"><\/span><strong>India and BRICS<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India is an important member of the BRICS group, and its participation in the organisation has been beneficial in many ways. Some of the key reasons why BRICS is important for India are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Strategic cooperation:<\/strong> BRICS offers India a key platform for global engagement on security, terrorism, climate, and trade.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Economic benefits:<\/strong> As a BRICS member, India gains access to a large market of 3+ billion people, offering vast business opportunities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Reform of multilateral institutions:<\/strong> India has been able to work with other member countries to promote a more inclusive and equitable global order by promoting multilateral reforms.<\/li>\n<li><strong>South-South cooperation:<\/strong> India has been able to use the platform to promote south-south cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and technology transfer.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pillar of the New World Order:<\/strong> In the fifteenth BRICS, the leaders called BRICS the pillar of the New World Order.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dilemma:<\/strong> However, the challenge before India is to choose between a China-centric or a West-centric world order or balance the two.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-4\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The BRICS summit in Kazan is vital for India&#8217;s diplomacy and collaboration, impacting geopolitical dynamics against Western policies.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"House_panel_to_study_armed_forces_preparedness_to_deal_with_%E2%80%98non-kinetic_warfare\"><\/span><strong>House panel to study armed forces\u2019 preparedness to deal with \u2018non-kinetic warfare\u2019<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-4\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The committee picked the subject on urging of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, who argued that the future warfare will be fought using these methods.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Context-4\"><\/span><strong>Context<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence has selected the issue of Indian armed forces\u2019 preparedness to deal with \u201chybrid and non-kinetic warfare\u201d for deliberations. The Leader of Opposition highlighted the growing threat of such warfare, citing ongoing conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Non-Kinetic_Warfare\"><\/span><strong>What is Non-Kinetic Warfare?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Definition:<\/strong> Non-kinetic warfare refers to methods of warfare that go beyond traditional military tactics, including electronic, cyber, information, psychological, and economic warfare.<\/li>\n<li>This concept is rapidly evolving and is seen as a critical future threat. Non-kinetic warfare can involve non-military stakeholders and can be more deadly than traditional methods.<\/li>\n<li>For example, cyberattacks on critical infrastructure such as power grids or hospitals can cripple a nation without the use of physical force.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Differences_Between_Kinetic_and_Non-Kinetic_Warfare\"><\/span><strong>Differences Between Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Warfare<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Kinetic Warfare<\/th>\n<th>Non-Kinetic Warfare<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Relies on physical force, weapons, and troops<\/td>\n<td>Involves cyber, electronic, psychological, and information warfare<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Direct military engagement<\/td>\n<td>Can be carried out remotely (e.g., cyberattacks)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Examples: Conventional battles, air strikes<\/td>\n<td>Examples: Cyberattacks, misinformation campaigns, economic sabotage<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Counter-Drone_Technologies\"><\/span><strong>Counter-Drone Technologies<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Indian Armed Forces are working on both kinetic and non-kinetic solutions to neutralize drones and drone swarms, which have emerged as disruptive elements in recent conflicts like the Ukraine war.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Kinetic Solutions:<\/strong> Destroying drones physically using weapons.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Non-Kinetic Solutions:<\/strong> Using jamming technologies, lasers, and electromagnetic waves to disrupt drone operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategic_Operational_Preparedness\"><\/span><strong>Strategic Operational Preparedness<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The House panel will also review the armed forces\u2019 preparedness in terms of cyber, kinetic, and non-kinetic warfare. Other aspects such as anti-drone capabilities and the India-China border stand-off along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) will be assessed.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indigenous_Defence_Production\"><\/span><strong>Indigenous Defence Production<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The committee will review progress in indigenous defence production and related issues such as resettlement policies for ex-servicemen and healthcare facilities.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Initiatives_in_Future_Warfare_Training\"><\/span><strong>Key Initiatives in Future Warfare Training<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A notable development is the tri-services &#8220;future warfare&#8221; course that covers the operational and technological aspects of modern warfare, preparing officers from Major General to Major ranks across services for the complexities of contact and non-contact warfare.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_Relevant_Facts\"><\/span><strong>Additional Relevant Facts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cybersecurity Infrastructure:<\/strong> India needs to significantly upgrade its cybersecurity infrastructure to defend against non-kinetic threats, particularly from state and non-state actors.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Artificial Intelligence (AI):<\/strong> AI is increasingly being integrated into warfare for both defensive and offensive non-kinetic strategies, including automated response systems to cyberattacks and intelligence gathering.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommended_Steps_for_Armed_Forces\"><\/span><strong>Recommended Steps for Armed Forces:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Capacity building in cyber warfare.<\/li>\n<li>Investment in AI and machine learning technologies.<\/li>\n<li>Collaboration with the private sector for developing indigenous defence technologies.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-5\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Studying non-kinetic warfare is vital for India&#8217;s defense readiness, emphasizing cyber, psychological, and electronic strategies for future conflicts without traditional arms.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_%E2%80%98smart_insulin_promises_to_revolutionise_diabetes_treatment\"><\/span><strong>How \u2018smart insulin\u2019 promises to revolutionise diabetes treatment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-5\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Scientists have developed a breakthrough &#8220;smart&#8221; insulin that responds in real-time to blood sugar fluctuations, termed the &#8220;holy grail&#8221; of diabetes treatments.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overview\"><\/span><strong>Overview<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The development of \u201csmart insulin,\u201d which reacts to real-time fluctuations in blood sugar levels, marks a significant breakthrough in diabetes management. This innovation aims to ease the burden of constant blood sugar monitoring and insulin dosage adjustments for millions affected by diabetes globally.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Global_Diabetes_Statistics\"><\/span><strong>Global Diabetes Statistics<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Prevalence:<\/strong> Over 500 million individuals suffer from diabetes worldwide.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mortality:<\/strong> Approximately 7 million deaths occur annually due to diabetes-related complications.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Diabetes\"><\/span><strong>Types of Diabetes<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Type<\/th>\n<th>Description<\/th>\n<th>Insulin Dependency<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Type 1 Diabetes<\/td>\n<td>Autoimmune condition leading to insufficient insulin production.<\/td>\n<td>Requires lifelong insulin therapy.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Type 2 Diabetes<\/td>\n<td>Insulin resistance, often associated with obesity.<\/td>\n<td>May require insulin in advanced stages.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Current_Treatment_Challenges\"><\/span><strong>Current Treatment Challenges<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Patients with diabetes must constantly monitor blood sugar levels and adjust insulin dosages, which can lead to severe health risks, including hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar).<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Smart_Insulin_NNC2215\"><\/span><strong>Smart Insulin: NNC2215<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Recent research published in Nature highlights the creation of a new insulin variant, NNC2215, engineered to be glucose-sensitive.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mechanism_of_Action\"><\/span><strong>Mechanism of Action:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Structure:<\/strong> NNC2215 consists of:\n<ul>\n<li>A ring-shaped structure<\/li>\n<li>A glucoside that mimics glucose<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Functionality:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>At low blood sugar levels, the glucoside keeps insulin inactive.<\/li>\n<li>As glucose levels rise, glucoside is displaced by glucose, activating insulin to lower blood sugar levels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Clinical_Implications\"><\/span><strong>Clinical Implications<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Initial Results:<\/strong> Demonstrated effectiveness in lowering blood glucose levels in animal models (rats and pigs).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Future Directions:<\/strong> Human trials are anticipated, focusing on refining the activation mechanism to ensure a gradual insulin response.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-6\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Smart insulin represents a potential shift in diabetes treatment paradigms, aiming to improve the quality of life for millions of patients. Ongoing research and human trials will determine its efficacy and safety in long-term diabetes management.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Usurious_pricing_by_NBFCs_apps_Why_the_RBI_acted_against_4_entities_and_how_borrowers_end_up_paying_excessive_interest\"><\/span><strong>Usurious pricing by NBFCs, apps: Why the RBI acted against 4 entities and how borrowers end up paying excessive interest<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-6\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The main complaint against the four lenders is about exorbitant interest charges levied by them.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_a_Non-Banking_Financial_Company_NBFC\"><\/span><strong>What is a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>A NBFC is a financial institution that provides banking services without meeting the legal definition of a bank, i.e. one that does not hold a banking license.<\/li>\n<li>It is established as a company registered under the Companies Act, 1956 but its operations are often still covered under a country\u2019s banking regulations.<\/li>\n<li>NBFCs may be engaged in the business of loans and credit facilities, savings products, investments and money transfer services.<\/li>\n<li>The Reserve Bank of India is entrusted with the responsibility of regulating and supervising the Non-Banking Financial Companies by virtue of powers vested under Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Current_Scenario\"><\/span><strong>Current Scenario<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken significant action against four non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) for engaging in unethical lending practices, particularly usurious interest rates. This move aims to protect borrowers from exorbitant charges and ensure a transparent lending environment.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Background\"><\/span><strong>Background<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In recent years, there has been a surge in complaints regarding high interest rates and exploitative recovery methods employed by NBFCs and digital lending applications. This issue has raised serious concerns about borrower protection and the integrity of financial systems.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regulatory_Concerns\"><\/span><strong>Regulatory Concerns<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The RBI&#8217;s actions stem from multiple violations observed in the pricing policies of these NBFCs. The main complaints include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Excessive Interest Rates:<\/strong> High Weighted Average Lending Rates (WALR) and interest spreads over the cost of funds.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Non-Compliance:<\/strong> Failure to adhere to regulatory guidelines concerning household income assessment and repayment capabilities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Irregular Loan Recovery Practices:<\/strong> Aggressive and unethical loan recovery methods, including harassment and misuse of borrower data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recent_Developments\"><\/span><strong>Recent Developments<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In September 2022, the RBI introduced guidelines to safeguard customers from predatory lending practices, which included:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Transparent Pricing:<\/strong> Mandatory upfront disclosure of interest rates.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Informed Borrowing:<\/strong> Ensuring borrowers understand the terms before loan disbursement.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Economic Assessment:<\/strong> Evaluating the economic profile of borrowers prior to loan approval.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Digital_Loan_App_Repository\"><\/span><strong>Digital Loan App Repository<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To combat illegal lending practices, the RBI has decided to create a public repository of digital lending apps (DLAs) associated with regulated entities. This initiative aims to help customers identify legitimate lending platforms and avoid fraudulent apps.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Case_Study_Harassment_Incident\"><\/span><strong>Case Study: Harassment Incident<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In a notable case, a woman was inundated with calls from 25 different numbers, demanding repayment for a loan she never took. Such incidents highlight the urgent need for regulatory oversight and borrower protection.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-7\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The RBI&#8217;s proactive measures aim to create a safer lending environment in India, safeguarding consumers from usurious practices prevalent in the digital lending landscape. With the establishment of a digital lending app repository, it is hoped that transparency and accountability will improve in the financial sector.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Environment\"><\/span><strong>Environment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_perilous_highway_to_salvation_in_the_Himalayas\"><\/span><strong>A perilous highway to salvation in the Himalayas<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-7\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>There is growing scientific evidence that the Char Dham Highway Project will have catastrophic consequences for the mountain ecology.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overview-2\"><\/span><strong>Overview<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Char Dham Highway Project aims to boost religious tourism and improve military logistics. However, growing scientific evidence suggests that the project poses severe risks to the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. The 900-km long highway, spanning four sacred shrines, risks landslides, subsidence, and ecological degradation, while neglecting scientific assessments. This raises concerns about the sustainability and safety of infrastructural projects in the Himalayas.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Aspects_of_the_Char_Dham_Highway_Project\"><\/span><strong>Aspects of the Char Dham Highway Project<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Aspect<\/th>\n<th>Details<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Cost<\/td>\n<td>\u20b912,000 crore<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Purpose<\/td>\n<td>Enhance connectivity for religious tourism and military transport in Uttarakhand.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Concerns<\/td>\n<td>Increased landslides, ecological damage, non-compliance with environmental norms, and bypassing impact assessments.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Locations Affected<\/td>\n<td>Rishikesh, Joshimath, and other areas in Uttarakhand Himalayas.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Main Cause of Landslides<\/td>\n<td>Road-widening activities leading to doubled landslide incidents (309 landslides along a 247-km stretch).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_of_the_Char_Dham_Highway_Project\"><\/span><strong>Impact of the Char Dham Highway Project<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Increased Landslides:<\/strong> The road-widening has caused a spike in landslides. A study documented an average of 1.25 landslides per kilometre between Rishikesh and Joshimath.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Environmental and Geological Fraud:<\/strong> The project ignored geological and environmental norms. Encroachment and blasting have destabilized the region\u2019s ecosystem, leading to irreversible environmental damage, as confirmed by a series of expert reports overruled by authorities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Climate Change and Increased Risk:<\/strong> The Himalayan region is predicted to experience more extreme rainfall events due to climate change, exacerbating landslides and fatalities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Displacement and Land Abandonment:<\/strong> Census data shows that many villages are depopulated due to migration, further aggravated by infrastructural projects. The shift from agriculture to tourism-driven livelihoods has led to local distress.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_Facts-2\"><\/span><strong>Additional Facts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Himalayan Ecology:<\/strong> The Himalayas are highly sensitive to seismic activity, weather patterns, and human-induced disturbances due to their young and fragile geological composition.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Monsoon Variability:<\/strong> Studies predict that the intensity of the Indian summer monsoon will increase, leading to higher rainfall and landslides.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Legal Provisions:<\/strong> The Environment Protection Act, 1986, and Forest Conservation Act, 1980, are relevant laws, but often bypassed using technical loopholes in large infrastructure projects.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Local Migration Trends:<\/strong> Migration in Uttarakhand is also driven by limited livelihood opportunities in agriculture, which are further reduced by environmental degradation caused by projects like Char Dham Highway.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Forecasting_better_in_India_come_rain_or_shine\"><\/span><strong>Forecasting better in India, come rain or shine<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-8\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>With improvements, the \u2018Mausam Mission\u2019 will transform how weather information can help India become climate smart.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overview-3\"><\/span><strong>Overview<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India faces a rising frequency of extreme weather events, necessitating improved weather forecasting to safeguard its population. The government has launched the &#8220;Mission Mausam&#8221; in 2024, aimed at enhancing weather observation systems and weather forecasting models to tackle these challenges.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Objectives_of_Mission_Mausam\"><\/span><strong>Objectives of Mission Mausam<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Expand India&#8217;s Weather Observation Network:<\/strong> Installation of Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs) and other platforms in regions lacking coverage, especially in high-risk urban areas and the western coast.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Improve Weather Forecasting Models:<\/strong> Utilize advanced techniques like machine learning and improved understanding of atmospheric physics.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Open Access to Weather Data:<\/strong> Facilitate innovation by making weather data available to researchers, institutions, and entrepreneurs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strengthen Communication Tools for Early Warning Systems:<\/strong> Improve user experience and capacity to interpret weather warnings through accessible platforms and educational tools.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Issues_and_Proposed_Solutions\"><\/span><strong>Issues and Proposed Solutions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Issue<\/th>\n<th>Current Scenario<\/th>\n<th>Proposed Improvements<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Radar Coverage<\/td>\n<td>39 DWRs across India; only 5 on the western coast, none in key cities like Ahmedabad and Bengaluru.<\/td>\n<td>Prioritize installation of new DWRs in under-monitored regions and urban centers at risk of extreme weather.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Data Access<\/td>\n<td>IMD provides data but with restrictions, limiting access to researchers and entrepreneurs.<\/td>\n<td>Make weather data from radars, wind profilers, and radiometers openly accessible, similar to the US and European models. This will promote innovation in early warning systems and analytical tools.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Communication of Warnings<\/td>\n<td>IMD&#8217;s web and mobile apps provide district-level warnings but lack clear instructions on how to act on these warnings.<\/td>\n<td>Enhance the user interface and provide guidance on interpreting warnings. Include videos, tutorials, and media campaigns to build capacity in understanding and responding to weather alerts.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Extreme Weather Forecasting<\/td>\n<td>Two-thirds of India&#8217;s population is exposed to flood risks, but only one-third has access to early warning systems.<\/td>\n<td>Expand forecasting systems similar to cyclone warnings and extend coverage for floods, heatwaves, and droughts.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Enhancing_Weather_Preparedness\"><\/span><strong>Enhancing Weather Preparedness<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Mission Focus Areas:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Strengthen radar coverage in high-risk areas.<\/li>\n<li>Democratize weather data for public and research use.<\/li>\n<li>Modernize the communication channels to ensure last-mile connectivity in remote regions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Technological Integration:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence to refine models for hyper-local weather forecasting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Potential Benefits:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Improved early warnings will reduce the economic and social impacts of climate-related disasters.<\/li>\n<li>Data-driven decisions in sectors like agriculture, energy, and urban planning will foster resilience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Way_Forward_for_Weather_Forecasting_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Way Forward for Weather Forecasting in India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Expand Infrastructure: Increase Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs) in vulnerable areas.<\/li>\n<li>Open Data Access: Ensure public access to weather data for innovation.<\/li>\n<li>Leverage Technology: Use AI for forecasting and enable crowdsourced monitoring.<\/li>\n<li>Improve Communication: Develop user-friendly weather tools and public education.<\/li>\n<li>Foster Collaboration: Enhance inter-agency coordination and private sector involvement.<\/li>\n<li>Invest in Research: Boost funding for meteorological research and explore weather modification techniques.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"There_is_a_start-up_revolution_in_India\"><\/span><strong>There is a start-up revolution in India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_News-9\"><\/span><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Government&#8217;s impetus to innovation has taken entrepreneurship beyond Tier-1 cities.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overview-4\"><\/span><strong>Overview<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India is witnessing a remarkable transformation in its start-up ecosystem, driven by government initiatives that extend beyond Tier-1 cities to democratize entrepreneurship. The country has emerged as a global leader in innovation and technology, now hosting the third-largest start-up landscape worldwide.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Facts_and_Statistics\"><\/span><strong>Facts and Statistics<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contributing_Factors_to_the_Start-Up_Ecosystem\"><\/span><strong>Contributing Factors to the Start-Up Ecosystem<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>India&#8217;s ascent in the start-up space can be attributed to several key initiatives:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Robust Innovation Ecosystem:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Development of technology business incubators and science parks through the NIDHI program.<\/li>\n<li>Collaboration between public institutions and private start-ups to commercialize innovations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Government Initiatives:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) has established over 4,880 operational Atal Tinkering Labs and 102 incubation centers across the country, nurturing more than 900 startups.<\/li>\n<li>Public-private partnerships for redeveloping railway stations initiated by NITI Aayog.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Policy-Driven Innovation:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Focus on strategic sectors such as electric vehicles, biotechnology, and alternative energy to optimize innovation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Notable Progress Indicators:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Significant advancements in patent origination and cultural service exports.<\/li>\n<li>High innovation quality compared to other lower-middle-income countries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impacts_of_the_Initiatives\"><\/span><strong>Impacts of the Initiatives<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The initiatives have not only improved rankings but also fostered a culture of innovation at the grassroots level, with young innovators and entrepreneurs emerging across the nation.<\/li>\n<li>This cultural shift indicates a promising future for India&#8217;s innovation ecosystem, potentially creating a cascade effect that will enhance its global standing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-8\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India&#8217;s transformation into a start-up powerhouse reflects the vision and commitment of its leadership. The concerted efforts in fostering innovation are paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial landscape.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Read Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\">14<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span> Child Betrothals are a Ploy to Evade Punishment: Supreme Court Why in News? The Supreme Court urges Parliament to outlaw child betrothals, drawing attention to how they threaten laws like the POCSO Act; the Court also issues guidelines on sex education in schools and a compensation scheme for girls. Context The Supreme Court of India,&hellip; <a class=\"more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-19-october-2024\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Current Affair &#8211; 19 October 2024<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":130,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[59],"tags":[],"acf":[],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2099"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2099"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2099\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2101,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2099\/revisions\/2101"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/130"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2099"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2099"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2099"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}