{"id":2138,"date":"2024-10-23T11:45:22","date_gmt":"2024-10-23T11:45:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/?p=2138"},"modified":"2024-10-23T12:24:05","modified_gmt":"2024-10-23T12:24:05","slug":"current-affair-1-october-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"Current Affair &#8211; 1 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-1-october-2024\/#The_La_Nina_and_North_Indias_pollution\" >The La Nina and North India\u2019s pollution<\/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-1-october-2024\/#La_Nina_and_Air_Quality\" >La Ni\u00f1a and Air Quality<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Pollutant_Dynamics_in_Delhi\" >Pollutant Dynamics in Delhi<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Impact_of_Stubble_Burning\" >Impact of Stubble Burning<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Link_to_Climate_Change\" >Link to Climate Change<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Policy_Shifts\" >Policy Shifts<\/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-1-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-1-october-2024\/#For_the_first_time_in_42_months_core_sectors_output_tanked_in_August\" >For the first time in 42 months, core sectors\u2019 output tanked in August<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Key_Statistics_on_Core_Sector_Output\" >Key Statistics on Core Sector Output<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Decline_in_Core_Sector_Growth\" >Decline in Core Sector Growth<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Sectors_in_Contraction\" >Sectors in Contraction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Sectors_with_Positive_Growth\" >Sectors with Positive Growth<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/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-1-october-2024\/#Impact_on_Broader_Industrial_Output\" >Impact on Broader Industrial Output<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Challenges_for_Core_Sectors\" >Challenges for Core Sectors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Outlook_and_Predictions\" >Outlook and Predictions<\/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-1-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-17\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Indias_Current_Account_Deficit_in_Q1_FY25_Widens_to_97_Billion\" >India\u2019s Current Account Deficit in Q1 FY25 Widens to $9.7 Billion<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Widening_Current_Account_Deficit_CAD\" >Widening Current Account Deficit (CAD)<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Merchandise_Trade_and_Services\" >Merchandise Trade and Services<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Private_Transfer_Receipts_Remittances\" >Private Transfer Receipts (Remittances):<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Primary_Income_Account\" >Primary Income Account:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/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-1-october-2024\/#Financial_Account_and_Investments\" >Financial Account and Investments:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Forex_Reserves\" >Forex Reserves:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Expert_Commentary\" >Expert Commentary:<\/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-1-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-26\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Export_ban_on_Non-Basmati_White_Rice_lifted_why_what_is_the_likely_impact\" >Export ban on Non-Basmati White Rice lifted: why, what is the likely impact<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Context_of_the_Ban\" >Context of the Ban<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Current_Agricultural_Status\" >Current Agricultural Status<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Impact_on_Stakeholders\" >Impact on Stakeholders<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Exports_During_the_Ban\" >Exports During the Ban<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Indias_Position_in_the_Global_Rice_Market\" >India&#8217;s Position in the Global Rice Market<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Breakdown_of_Rice_Exports\" >Breakdown of Rice Exports:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/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-1-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-34\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Steady_but_slow_On_the_VIPER_mission_lessons_for_India\" >Steady but slow: On the VIPER mission, lessons for India<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#NASA_Cancels_VIPER_Mission\" >NASA Cancels VIPER Mission<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Global_Lunar_Competition\" >Global Lunar Competition<\/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-1-october-2024\/#ISROs_Limitations\" >ISRO\u2019s Limitations<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Chandrayaan-4_and_Missed_Opportunities\" >Chandrayaan-4 and Missed Opportunities<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Challenges_Facing_Indias_Space_Programme\" >Challenges Facing India\u2019s Space Programme<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Outlook_and_Way_Forward\" >Outlook and Way Forward<\/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-1-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-42\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Having_Private_Participation_in_Indias_Nuclear_Energy\" >Having Private Participation in India\u2019s Nuclear Energy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Governments_Nuclear_Energy_Expansion_Plans\" >Government&#8217;s Nuclear Energy Expansion Plans<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Legal_Framework_Atomic_Energy_Act_1962_AEA\" >Legal Framework: Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (AEA)<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Challenges_to_Private_Participation\" >Challenges to Private Participation<\/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-1-october-2024\/#Outlook_and_Way_Forward-2\" >Outlook and Way Forward<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/#Conclusion-6\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_La_Nina_and_North_Indias_pollution\"><\/span><strong>The La Nina and North India\u2019s pollution<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe delayed La Ni\u00f1a and late monsoon retreat may worsen North India&#8217;s air quality, especially in Delhi, raising concerns over winter pollution and stubble burning.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"La_Nina_and_Air_Quality\"><\/span><strong>La Ni\u00f1a and Air Quality<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The delayed onset of La Ni\u00f1a and the late monsoon retreat have impacted air quality predictions for Delhi and North India. La Ni\u00f1a, usually linked to stronger winds that disperse pollutants, has not yet developed, raising concerns about high pollution levels in the early winter months. The earliest La Ni\u00f1a is expected to develop is between September and November 2024, meaning stagnant winds will likely exacerbate pollution in autumn and early winter.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pollutant_Dynamics_in_Delhi\"><\/span><strong>Pollutant Dynamics in Delhi<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Extended periods of high humidity and calm winds due to the slower monsoon retreat are expected to trap pollutants near the surface. This will elevate PM2.5 and PM10 levels, worsening air quality. The post-monsoon anti-cyclonic circulation further reduces atmospheric mixing, contributing to higher pollution levels.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_of_Stubble_Burning\"><\/span><strong>Impact of Stubble Burning<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>With dominant north-westerly winds and weak La Ni\u00f1a conditions, stubble burning will worsen Delhi&#8217;s air quality. If La Ni\u00f1a strengthens in December, stronger winds may reduce pollutants, but severe winter could worsen air quality.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Link_to_Climate_Change\"><\/span><strong>Link to Climate Change<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Extreme air pollution events are increasingly linked to climate change. Changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, wind behavior, and pollutant dispersion are influenced by global warming, complicating air quality management.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Policy_Shifts\"><\/span><strong>Policy Shifts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The focus needs to shift from local emission-centric strategies to broader meteorological and climatological factors, especially in cities like Delhi. There is a need for a resource framework prioritizing health-centric measures, integrating larger airshed management, and addressing both PM2.5 and PM10 pollution. Currently, there is an overemphasis on PM10, which has misallocated resources and priorities.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>La Ni\u00f1a affects North India&#8217;s air quality, necessitating comprehensive strategies addressing meteorological factors and public health concerns.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"For_the_first_time_in_42_months_core_sectors_output_tanked_in_August\"><\/span><strong>For the first time in 42 months, core sectors\u2019 output tanked in August<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><br \/>\nIn August 2024, India\u2019s core sector output witnessed a 1.8% year-on-year contraction, marking the first decline in 42 months, with six of eight core infrastructure sectors showing reduced production.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Statistics_on_Core_Sector_Output\"><\/span><strong>Key Statistics on Core Sector Output<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Decline_in_Core_Sector_Growth\"><\/span><strong>Decline in Core Sector Growth<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>The Index of Core Industries (ICI) fell to 155.8 in August 2024, a 4.2% decline from July. This was the third consecutive month of sequential decline.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sectors_in_Contraction\"><\/span><strong>Sectors in Contraction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Out of eight core sectors, six experienced a contraction:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Coal output declined by 8.1%.<\/li>\n<li>Electricity generation dropped by 5%, reaching a five-month low.<\/li>\n<li>Cement production fell 3%, the worst in nine months.<\/li>\n<li>Refinery products declined 1%, the second drop in three months.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sectors_with_Positive_Growth\"><\/span><strong>Sectors with Positive Growth<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Fertilizer output grew by 3.2%. Steel production saw a modest increase of 4.5%, the slowest in 26 months.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_on_Broader_Industrial_Output\"><\/span><strong>Impact on Broader Industrial Output<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Industrial Production Index (IIP):<\/strong> The core sector makes up 40% of the IIP; weaker factory output is anticipated for August 2024 despite July&#8217;s 4.8% growth.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Contributing Factors:<\/strong> High growth in August 2023 skews performance; late monsoon withdrawal hampers output in cement and steel sectors, says Bank of Baroda.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_for_Core_Sectors\"><\/span><strong>Challenges for Core Sectors<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Monsoon\u2019s Impact:<\/strong> The delayed monsoon withdrawal is expected to continue affecting output in September 2024, especially in construction-related sectors.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Base Effect:<\/strong> The strong growth in 2023 has created a high comparison base, influencing the performance metrics for 2024.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Outlook_and_Predictions\"><\/span><strong>Outlook and Predictions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Marginal Industrial Growth:<\/strong> Experts estimate mild industrial output growth for August, with predictions of around 0.5%-1%. This is a significant decline compared to earlier months.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Future Sector Performance:<\/strong> Weak performance in core sectors like cement and steel signals ongoing sluggishness in construction and industrial activity for the year.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-2\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India\u2019s core sector output contracted for the first time in three years, impacted by weak coal, electricity, and construction sectors, creating uncertainty in future industrial output.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indias_Current_Account_Deficit_in_Q1_FY25_Widens_to_97_Billion\"><\/span><strong>India\u2019s Current Account Deficit in Q1 FY25 Widens to $9.7 Billion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><br \/>\nOn September 30, 2024, RBI reported India&#8217;s current account deficit widened to $9.7 billion in Q1 FY25, compared to $8.9 billion last year.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Widening_Current_Account_Deficit_CAD\"><\/span><strong>Widening Current Account Deficit (CAD)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India\u2019s CAD widened marginally in Q1 FY25, primarily due to an increase in the merchandise trade deficit, which rose to $65.1 billion from $56.7 billion in Q1 FY24. The revised surplus for Q4 FY24 was brought down to $4.6 billion from the earlier figure of $5.7 billion due to an upward adjustment in customs data on merchandise imports.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Merchandise_Trade_and_Services\"><\/span><strong>Merchandise Trade and Services<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The larger trade deficit was a significant contributor to the widening of CAD. However, net services receipts increased to $39.7 billion in Q1 FY25 from $35.1 billion in Q1 FY24, driven by growth in exports of computer services, business services, travel services, and transportation.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Private_Transfer_Receipts_Remittances\"><\/span><strong>Private Transfer Receipts (Remittances):<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Private transfer receipts, including remittances by Indian workers abroad, rose to $29.5 billion in Q1 FY25, up from $27.1 billion a year earlier.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Primary_Income_Account\"><\/span><strong>Primary Income Account:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Payments under the primary income account, largely reflecting investment income outflows, increased to $10.7 billion in Q1 FY25 from $10.2 billion in Q1 FY24.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Financial_Account_and_Investments\"><\/span><strong>Financial Account and Investments:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>FDI inflows rose to $6.3 billion in Q1 FY25, up from $4.7 billion in the same period last year.<\/li>\n<li>Foreign portfolio investment (FPI) inflows moderated sharply to $0.9 billion from $15.7 billion in Q1 FY24, while external commercial borrowings (ECBs) also declined to $1.8 billion from $5.6 billion.<\/li>\n<li>Non-resident deposits (NRI deposits) saw an increase in net inflows, rising to $4.0 billion from $2.2 billion in Q1 FY24.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Forex_Reserves\"><\/span><strong>Forex Reserves:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India\u2019s foreign exchange reserves saw an accretion of $5.2 billion on a balance of payments (BoP) basis in Q1 FY25, significantly lower than the $24.4 billion accretion in the same period last year.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expert_Commentary\"><\/span><strong>Expert Commentary:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Chief Economist at Bank of Baroda remarked that India\u2019s balance of payments remained stable in Q1 FY25, with a comfortable CAD of 1.1% of GDP. The widening trade deficit, particularly due to higher oil, gold, and non-oil imports, was noted. While FDI inflows improved, FPI flows declined. He projected the CAD to remain around 1.5% for FY25 if these trends persist.<\/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 current account deficit widened in Q1 FY25 due to a larger trade deficit, despite strong services exports and remittances.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Export_ban_on_Non-Basmati_White_Rice_lifted_why_what_is_the_likely_impact\"><\/span><strong>Export ban on Non-Basmati White Rice lifted: why, what is the likely impact<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><br \/>\nIndia lifted the export ban on Non-Basmati White Rice, setting a minimum price of $490 per tonne to boost trade after last year&#8217;s production dip.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Context_of_the_Ban\"><\/span><strong>Context of the Ban<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The previous export ban was instituted due to a slight decline in rice production and concerns over an erratic monsoon season. With higher paddy sowing this kharif season and expected bumper output, the government decided to lift the ban.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Current_Agricultural_Status\"><\/span><strong>Current Agricultural Status<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Increased Sowing:<\/strong> As of September 20, 2024, paddy sowing has increased by 2.2% compared to last year, covering 413.50 lakh hectares.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Record Production Estimates:<\/strong> India&#8217;s total rice production for 2023-24 is projected to reach 137.82 million tonnes, a 1.5% increase from last year, primarily driven by enhanced kharif season yields.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Price Dynamics:<\/strong> Wholesale rice prices have decreased, recorded at Rs 3,324.99 per quintal, down from Rs 3,597.09 a week prior.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_on_Stakeholders\"><\/span><strong>Impact on Stakeholders<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Exporters and Traders:<\/strong> The lifting of the ban will benefit traders previously burdened by a 20% export duty. It will also positively affect farmers producing premium non-Basmati varieties like Sona Masoori.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Domestic Consumers:<\/strong> Retail prices of rice, which have been elevated, may increase further due to the changes in export policy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Exports_During_the_Ban\"><\/span><strong>Exports During the Ban<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The government allowed exports to meet food security needs of other nations, with shipments occurring through the National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL) to various countries, including UAE and Bhutan.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indias_Position_in_the_Global_Rice_Market\"><\/span><strong>India&#8217;s Position in the Global Rice Market<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India is the second-largest rice producer and the largest exporter, accounting for 33% of global rice exports in 2023, despite a drop from 40% in 2022 before the ban.<\/p>\n<p>Major competitors include Thailand and Vietnam, whose combined exports closely match India\u2019s.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Breakdown_of_Rice_Exports\"><\/span><strong>Breakdown of Rice Exports:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Rice exports are divided into basmati and non-basmati categories. Non-Basmati White Rice accounts for significant exports, with the government\u2019s lifting of the ban expected to enhance these numbers.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-4\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Lifting the export ban on Non-Basmati White Rice aims to boost trade and support farmers, but may raise retail prices, requiring careful monitoring of market impacts.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Steady_but_slow_On_the_VIPER_mission_lessons_for_India\"><\/span><strong>Steady but slow: On the VIPER mission, lessons for India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><br \/>\nIndia&#8217;s growing space program faces resource constraints, limiting its ability to match global exploration developments.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"NASA_Cancels_VIPER_Mission\"><\/span><strong>NASA Cancels VIPER Mission<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>NASA cancelled the VIPER mission in July 2024 due to delays and rising costs, disappointing scientists who aimed to explore lunar water-ice.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Global_Lunar_Competition\"><\/span><strong>Global Lunar Competition<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>VIPER&#8217;s cancellation raises concerns about China&#8217;s lunar advancements, opening commercial and geopolitical opportunities, impacting the U.S.-led Artemis Accords involving India.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ISROs_Limitations\"><\/span><strong>ISRO\u2019s Limitations<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>ISRO gained acclaim for Chandrayaan-3&#8217;s success but struggles to execute multiple flagship missions, limiting responsiveness and emerging space opportunities with its &#8220;one major mission at a time&#8221; model.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chandrayaan-4_and_Missed_Opportunities\"><\/span><strong>Chandrayaan-4 and Missed Opportunities<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Chandrayaan-4 marks the second phase of India\u2019s lunar programme. ISRO could have pursued the Lunar Polar Explorer Mission with Japan\u2019s space agency, which aims to perform tasks similar to the cancelled VIPER mission, such as mapping water-ice deposits.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_Facing_Indias_Space_Programme\"><\/span><strong>Challenges Facing India\u2019s Space Programme<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Resource Constraints:<\/strong> ISRO, despite increased funding, lacks resources for simultaneous large-scale missions, unlike NASA and China&#8217;s CNSA.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Global Lunar Leadership:<\/strong> As a signatory of the Artemis Accords, India risks falling behind in the renewed lunar race for resources like water-ice.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strategic Importance of Lunar Exploration:<\/strong> The cancellation of NASA&#8217;s VIPER mission underscores the importance of lunar exploration in geopolitical and commercial arenas. ISRO\u2019s slower pace and limited resources could hinder its ability to lead in this critical area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Outlook_and_Way_Forward\"><\/span><strong>Outlook and Way Forward<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Need for Increased Funding:<\/strong> India&#8217;s space program needs greater resources and infrastructure to avoid bottlenecks and compete in global exploration.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Leveraging International Partnerships:<\/strong> Collaborating with international partners like Japan on the Lunar Polar Explorer Mission could enhance India&#8217;s lunar exploration capabilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-5\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>ISRO&#8217;s success highlights capabilities, but resource limits hinder multiple missions; increased funding is essential for lunar leadership.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Having_Private_Participation_in_Indias_Nuclear_Energy\"><\/span><strong>Having Private Participation in India\u2019s Nuclear Energy<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why in News?<\/strong><br \/>\nIn July 2024, India announced plans to expand nuclear energy, inviting private sector participation in Bharat Small Reactors and Bharat Small Modular Reactors to achieve 2030 decarbonization goals.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Governments_Nuclear_Energy_Expansion_Plans\"><\/span><strong>Government&#8217;s Nuclear Energy Expansion Plans<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In the 2024-25 Union Budget, India proposed private partnerships to develop Bharat Small Reactor, Bharat Small Modular Reactor, and new nuclear technologies, aiming for 500 GW of non-fossil energy by 2030, aligned with the country\u2019s COP26 commitments.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legal_Framework_Atomic_Energy_Act_1962_AEA\"><\/span><strong>Legal Framework: Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (AEA)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The AEA, amended in 1987, grants the central government sole control over the production, development, and disposal of atomic energy, restricting private sector involvement.<\/li>\n<li>The Supreme Court upheld these restrictions in the case of <em>Sandeep T.S. vs Union of India &amp; Ors.<\/em> (September 2024), noting the importance of strict safeguards in the exploitation of nuclear power.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pending Legal Challenges:<\/strong> The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA), designed to provide compensation for victims of nuclear accidents, is currently facing a constitutional challenge in the Supreme Court.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_to_Private_Participation\"><\/span><strong>Challenges to Private Participation<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Strict Regulatory Controls:<\/strong> The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), established under the Atomic Energy (Radiation Protection) Rules, 2004, supervises the use of radioactive technology.<\/li>\n<li>The Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority Bill 2011, intended to strengthen regulatory oversight, was never enacted.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Liability Concerns:<\/strong> High liability standards under India&#8217;s 2010 Nuclear Damage Act complicate investments due to no-fault liability and constitutional litigation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):<\/strong> It could involve NPCIL retaining 51% ownership while inviting private capital for nuclear development.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Outlook_and_Way_Forward-2\"><\/span><strong>Outlook and Way Forward<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Legislative Reforms:<\/strong> The NITI Aayog report urges a clear regulatory framework and liability structure to attract private investment in Small Modular Reactors.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Financial and Technical Investments:<\/strong> The Union Budget aims to attract $26 billion in private investment for nuclear energy, needing regulatory reforms to address legal uncertainties.<\/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>Private sector participation is vital for India\u2019s energy goals, requiring legislative reforms to address restrictions and legal challenges in the nuclear energy sector.<\/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\">7<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span> The La Nina and North India\u2019s pollution Why in News? The delayed La Ni\u00f1a and late monsoon retreat may worsen North India&#8217;s air quality, especially in Delhi, raising concerns over winter pollution and stubble burning. La Ni\u00f1a and Air Quality The delayed onset of La Ni\u00f1a and the late monsoon retreat have impacted air quality&hellip; <a class=\"more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-1-october-2024\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Current Affair &#8211; 1 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\/2138"}],"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=2138"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2138\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2141,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2138\/revisions\/2141"}],"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=2138"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2138"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2138"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}