Norovirus

 Norovirus cases have been on the rise in the UK in recent weeks, with numbers being 60% higher than the same time last year.

• Norovirus is a highly contagious virus notorious for causing gastroenteritis, resulting in symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, muscle aches, headache, fever, and sometimes chills.
• It is commonly referred to as the "stomach flu" or "winter vomiting bug," but it is important to note that norovirus is distinct from influenza and specifically causes gastrointestinal issues.

Nature of Norovirus

• Norovirus exists in numerous strains, and individuals can experience multiple infections in their lifetime due to the diversity of these strains.
• It''s highly contagious and easily transmitted from person to person, primarily through:

• Contaminated Surfaces: The virus can persist on surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, or objects touched by an infected person. Contact with these surfaces and subsequent hand-to-mouth actions can lead to infection.
• Contaminated Food and Water: Norovirus can contaminate food and water during preparation or handling by an infected individual, leading to widespread outbreaks if consumed by others.

Symptoms of Norovirus Infection

• The typical onset of symptoms occurs within one to two days after exposure to the virus.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Vomiting and diarrhoea are hallmark symptoms. These can be severe, leading to dehydration due to the loss of fluids.
• Nausea, Abdominal Pain, and Fever: Patients often experience nausea, cramping abdominal pain, accompanied by a fever, headaches, and body aches.

Transmission Routes

• Person-to-Person Contact: Close contact with infected individuals, especially through exposure to their vomit or stool, is a primary transmission route.
• Contaminated Surfaces and Objects: The virus can persist on surfaces and objects for an extended period, making transmission possible through touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face or consuming contaminated food without proper hand hygiene.
• Contaminated Food and Water: Consumption of food or water contaminated during preparation or handling by an infected person can result in infection.
• Aerosolized Vomit or Stool: Even the air around an area contaminated with vomit or stool can potentially spread the virus.

Treatment

• There is no specific antiviral treatment for norovirus.
• There is no currently available vaccine for norovirus.
• Resting, managing symptoms, and ensuring adequate hydration to prevent dehydration are the primary focus.
• Individuals are advised to avoid certain foods and activities until they recover. Severe cases might necessitate hospitalization for intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration.

Prevention

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water is paramount in preventing infection.
• Thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, especially in areas where infected individuals have been present.
• Ensuring proper cooking of food, particularly shellfish, and careful washing of fruits and vegetables before consumption.
• Limiting contact with sick individuals helps minimize transmission.

Complications

• Norovirus infections are typically short-lived and resolve within a few days. However, for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, there''s a higher risk of dehydration and complications, making the illness potentially more severe.

• Norovirus, while highly contagious, is typically not severe. Practising good hygiene and taking precautions can significantly reduce its spread, safeguarding both oneself and others from infection.

Special provisions for certain states

The differential treatment of states in India is based on their fiscal, political, and administrative needs. The Indian Constitution has special provisions for certain states, such as Article 370 and Article 371, that give them varying degrees of autonomy.

• India is a diverse and complex country with many different regions, cultures, languages and religions. The Constitution of India recognizes this diversity and grants some degree of autonomy and special status to certain states and territories, based on historical, geographical, political or cultural factors.
• These special provisions are meant to protect the rights and interests of the people living in these areas, as well as to promote their development and integration with the rest of the country.
• The Indian Constitution provides for special provisions granted to certain states under Part XXI, titled "Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions." These provisions, while meant to be temporary, have endured for decades, sparking continuous debate and analysis.

Special Category States in India

• India is a diverse country with different states having different levels of development, resources, and challenges. Some states face more difficulties than others due to their geographical, historical, or socio-economic conditions. To address these issues and provide them with special assistance, the central government grants some states the status of Special Category States (SCS).
• The concept of SCS was introduced in 1969 by the Fifth Finance Commission, based on the Gadgil formula, to provide preferential treatment to some states in terms of central assistance and tax breaks. The criteria for granting SCS were:

• Hilly and difficult terrain
• Low population density or large tribal population
• Strategic location along international borders
• Economic and infrastructural backwardness
• Non-viable nature of state finances

• Initially, only three states - Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and Nagaland - were given SCS, based on their security and developmental challenges. Later, eight more states - Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Uttarakhand - were added to the list, mostly from the northeastern region. Telangana was the latest state to join the club in 2014, after its bifurcation from Andhra Pradesh.

The benefits of SCS include:

• Higher share of central plan assistance (90% as grant and 10% as loan, compared to 30% grant and 70% loan for non-SCS states).
• Higher allocation of funds for externally aided projects.
• Concessional excise duty and income tax rates for industries.
• Special treatment in the devolution of central taxes and duties.
• Relaxation of norms for centrally sponsored schemes.
• Additional assistance for disaster relief

However, the SCS status has also been a source of controversy and demand from several states. Some of the issues related to SCS are:

• Lack of constitutional or legal basis for SCS. It is a discretionary decision of the National Development Council (NDC) or the central government.
• Lack of uniformity or transparency in the criteria for granting SCS. Some states like Bihar, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh have claimed that they also deserve SCS based on their backwardness indicators.
• Lack of clarity on the duration or review of SCS. Some states like Jammu and Kashmir and Telangana have been given SCS on a temporary basis, while others have been enjoying it for decades.
• Lack of impact assessment or performance evaluation of SCS. There is no clear evidence that SCS has led to faster growth or development of the beneficiary states.
• Lack of fiscal discipline or accountability of SCS. Some states have been accused of misusing or diverting the funds meant for specific purposes.

Some of the states that enjoy special provisions are:

Jammu and Kashmir

• The state has a unique history of accession to India after the partition of 1947 and has been a subject of dispute and conflict with Pakistan and China ever since.
• The state was granted a special status under Article 370 of the Constitution, which gave it a large degree of autonomy and a separate constitution.
• However, in August 2019, the central government revoked this status and divided the state into two union territories, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Nagaland

• The state has a predominantly Naga population, which has a distinct identity and culture from the rest of India.
• The Nagas have been demanding self-determination and sovereignty since the colonial era, and have engaged in armed insurgency against the Indian state for decades.
• The state was created in 1963 under Article 371A of the Constitution, which gives it special rights to preserve its customs, traditions, land and resources.
• The state also enjoys a special relationship with the central government under the Framework Agreement of 2015, which aims to resolve the long-standing Naga issue through peaceful dialogue.

Assam

• The state has a diverse and multi-ethnic society, with various indigenous communities, migrants and refugees.
• The state has witnessed several movements and conflicts over issues such as identity, language, immigration, development and autonomy.
• The state was granted special powers under Article 371B of the Constitution, which allows it to have a separate legislative assembly for the tribal areas of the state.
• The state also has a special accord with the central government under the Assam Accord of 1985, which seeks to address the grievances and aspirations of the Assamese people.

Sikkim

• The state was formerly an independent kingdom that joined India in 1975 after a referendum. The state has a unique culture and heritage, influenced by Buddhism and Tibetan traditions.
• The state was given special status under Article 371F of the Constitution, which protects its existing laws, land rights, religious practices and democratic institutions.
• The state also has a special arrangement with the central government under the Sikkim-Darjeeling Agreement of 1973, which grants it financial assistance and development schemes.

The main objectives of these provisions are to:

• Respect and protect the distinct identity, culture and rights of the people living in these states.
• Promote their socio-economic development and welfare.
• Ensure their participation and representation in the national mainstream.
• Maintain peace and stability in these regions.
• Strengthen national unity and integrity.

However, these provisions also have some challenges and limitations, such as:

• They may create a sense of alienation or discrimination among other states or regions that do not enjoy such privileges.
• They may encourage separatist or secessionist tendencies among some groups or individuals who may misuse or abuse these provisions for their own interests.
• They may create conflicts or disputes between the central government and the state governments over issues such as jurisdiction, authority, resources or policies.
• They may hamper the uniform implementation or enforcement of national laws or schemes in these states.
• They may be influenced by external factors or pressures from neighbouring countries or international organizations.

Beyond Articles

• Fiscal Devolution: The Finance Commission allocates central taxes to states based on need and population, recognizing and addressing fiscal disparities. Special Category States like Jammu and Kashmir (previously) and some Northeastern states receive additional financial assistance due to their unique challenges.
• Administrative Flexibility: States have the power to tailor their administrative structures and policies to local contexts, particularly in areas like education, healthcare, and social welfare programs.
• Equal Representation: The Rajya Sabha ensures equal representation for each state regardless of population, giving smaller states a stronger voice in national decision-making.

Way Forward

• The debate surrounding special provisions is likely to continue. Finding the right balance between state autonomy and national unity while addressing historical imbalances and regional needs remains a crucial challenge.
• Reviewing existing provisions: Regularly assessing their effectiveness and relevance to ensure they remain aligned with India''s evolving needs.
• Transparency and accountability: Ensuring clear communication and responsible implementation of these provisions to address concerns about inequality and misuse.
• Finding common ground: Fostering dialogue and cooperation between states and the Centre to build a stronger foundation for a united and equitable India.

The special provisions for some states under Part XXI of the Constitution reflect India''s commitment to federalism, democracy and diversity. They are meant to address the specific challenges and aspirations of these states without compromising their integration with the rest of India. They also demonstrate India''s flexibility and adaptability in dealing with its complex realities.

Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator

 The successful flight trial of the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is a momentous achievement in India''s aeronautical advancement.

• Technology Mastery: The flight trial marks India''s entry into an exclusive league of nations capable of maneuvering flying wing technology in a tailless configuration, demonstrating exceptional control and proficiency in this specialized field.
• Development Origins: The UAV was conceived and crafted by DRDO''s Aeronautical Development Establishment. The journey began with its maiden flight in July 2022, followed by a series of six meticulously planned flight trials.
• Design and Material Excellence: The aircraft''s construction utilized lightweight carbon prepreg composite material, a remarkable display of India''s indigenous expertise in aerospace technology.
• Autonomous Features: The UAV demonstrated autonomous landing capabilities without relying on ground radars, infrastructure, or human pilots. Its unique ability to take off and land from runways with pinpoint accuracy was facilitated by sensor data fusion and GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) receivers, ensuring precise navigation.
• Technological Sovereignty: India''s adeptness in developing cutting-edge technology like the Autonomous Flying Wing UAV signifies a significant leap towards self-sufficiency and technological sovereignty in the realm of advanced aerospace technology.

Flying-wing UAVs

• They represent a unique and advanced category of unmanned aircraft characterized by their distinct wing design, which merges the body of the aircraft into a single, wing-shaped structure, without any separate tail or fuselage.
• These UAVs are engineered to provide a myriad of applications across various fields due to their innovative design and versatile capabilities.

Design and Features:

• Wing Configuration: The most prominent feature of a flying-wing UAV is its wing configuration, which is the primary structure and contributes to both lift and stability.
• Stealth and Low Radar Signature: The design of flying-wing UAVs often aims for reduced radar cross-section, providing stealth characteristics that make them less detectable by radar systems.
• Payload Capacity: These UAVs can accommodate various payload configurations, including sensors, cameras, communication devices, and sometimes even weapons, depending on the intended purpose.
• Long-Endurance Flight: Due to their efficient aerodynamics, flying-wing UAVs can achieve extended flight times and long endurance, making them suitable for surveillance, reconnaissance, and monitoring missions.
• Control Systems: Advanced control systems and fly-by-wire technology ensure stability and precise control, enabling autonomous or remotely piloted flights.

Applications:

• Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Flying-wing UAVs excel in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Their stealthy design and endurance capabilities make them suitable for long-duration aerial surveillance tasks.
• Military Operations: They have applications in military scenarios for reconnaissance, target acquisition, and potential deployment as combat drones.
• Civilian Uses: In civilian domains, they find use in environmental monitoring, disaster management, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection.
• Communications Relay: Some variants serve as high-altitude communications relays for extending network coverage or supporting communication in remote areas.
• Research and Development: Flying-wing UAVs are also employed in research and development for advancing aerospace technology and testing new aerodynamic designs.

Flying-wing UAVs represent a cutting-edge evolution in unmanned aerial technology, offering a blend of stealth, endurance, and adaptability for diverse applications across military, civilian, and research sectors. Further advancements in design, control systems, and regulatory frameworks will continue to shape their role in the future of aerial operations and technological innovation.

INS Tarmugli

 INS Tarmugli, a Fast Attack Craft has been commissioned into the Navy at a ceremony held at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam.

• Name and Class: INS Tarmugli, a Trinkat Class Fast Attack Craft (FAC).
• Initial Gift: The vessel was initially gifted to the Maldivian Naval Defence Forces (MNDF) by India in 2006.
• Return and Restoration: The ship returned in May and underwent extensive restoration at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam.
• Features and Capabilities:

• Advanced MTU engines and water jet propulsion.
• Latest communication equipment and an advanced radar system.
• Fitted with a 30 mm gun for defense purposes.

• Purpose and Functionality:

• Role:Primarily intended for coastal surveillance.
• Area of Operations:Protection of Offshore Development Areas (ODAs) in the KG Basin area and the East Coast.
• Operational Command:Under the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Andhra Pradesh).
• Speed and Capacity:
• 320-tonne vessel measuring 48 meters in length.
• Capable of achieving speeds in excess of 30 knots.

• Strategic Importance:Vital for maritime security and defense operations.

• Naming Tradition:Named after a picturesque island in the Andaman group.

Trinkat-class patrol vessels

Role:

• Functions: Fisheries protection, anti-poaching, counter-insurgency, and search-and-rescue operations.
• Operational Area: Primarily in coastal areas and the exclusive economic zone.
• Naming Convention: Named after islands from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands or the Lakshadweep Islands.

Ships in Class:

• Trinkat (T61):

• Homeport:Port Blair
• Commissioned:28 September 2000
• Status:Active

• Tillanchang (Now INS Tarmugli - T62):

• Commissioned:17 March 2001
• Transferred:To the Maldivian Coast Guard in April 2006 as MCGS Huravee.
• Decommissioned:2 May 2023 and transferred back to India.
• Recommissioned:As INS Tarmugli on 14 December 2023 after refit.

• Tarasa (T63):

• Commissioned:24 August 2001
• Transferred:To Seychelles Coast Guard in November 2014 as PS Constant.

• Tarmugli (T64):

• Commissioned:4 March 2002
• Transferred:To Seychelles Coast Guard in February 2005 as SCG PS Topaz.

Replacements:

• Newer Ships: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers developed replacements for the older vessels, known as the Car Nicobar-class patrol vessels.
• Launch Dates:

• New INS Tarasa (T94) launched in June 2016.
• New INS Tillanchang (T92) commissioned in March 2017.
• New INS Tarmugli (T91) commissioned in May 2016.

Recent Developments:

• New INS Tarmugli (T91) donated to the Maldives in May 2023.
• Older MCGS Huravee (formerly INS Tillanchang) transferred back to India.
• INS Tarmugli (formerly Tillanchang) was refitted and recommissioned into the Indian Navy on 14 December 2023.

FAC

• Fast Attack Craft (FAC) is a type of small, agile, and highly maneuverable naval vessel designed primarily for offensive and defensive operations in littoral or coastal areas.
• These crafts are built for speed, flexibility, and rapid response, often playing a crucial role in coastal defense, patrolling, escort duties, anti-submarine warfare, and protection of larger naval vessels.

Design and Characteristics:

• Size and Construction:

• Typically small in size, ranging from around 20 meters to 50 meters in length, allowing for high maneuverability and speed.
• Lightweight construction using advanced materials, such as aluminum or composites, for speed and agility.

• Speed and Maneuverability:

• Emphasis on high speed, capable of reaching and sustaining speeds often exceeding 40 knots.
• Swift acceleration and quick turning capabilities for rapid response and evasion of threats.

• Armament and Payload:

• Mounts a variety of offensive weaponry, such as naval guns, surface-to-surface missiles, anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and close-in weapon systems (CIWS).
• May also carry electronic warfare systems, decoys, and small unmanned aerial or surface vehicles.

• Stealth and Survivability:

• Some designs incorporate stealth features, reduced radar signature, and advanced sensor technologies.
• Countermeasures against threats include sophisticated electronic warfare suites and defensive systems.

Roles and Missions:

• Coastal Defense:

• Protecting territorial waters by patrolling and monitoring activities in coastal areas.
• Providing rapid response to threats such as piracy, smuggling, and intrusions by hostile forces.

• Escort and Protection:

• Escorting larger naval vessels or convoys, safeguarding them against surface and subsurface threats.

• Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW):

• Engaging and countering enemy submarines using torpedoes and other ASW weapons.

• Surveillance and Reconnaissance:

• Conducting surveillance missions to gather intelligence and monitor maritime activities.

Global Use:

• United States Navy (USN):

• The Cyclone-class patrol ships, serving in littoral areas, providing fleet support, and executing maritime security operations.

• Russian Navy:

• The Tarantul-class missile corvettes, designed for anti-ship warfare and used for coastal defense and convoy escort.

• Indian Navy:

• The Abhay-class corvettes, optimized for shallow water operations and anti-submarine warfare in littoral regions.

• Chinese Navy (PLAN):

• Utilizes various classes of missile boats and fast attack crafts for coastal defense and regional security.

The Trinkat-class and its replacements, the Car Nicobar-class patrol vessels, signify India''s commitment to maritime security, exemplified by their roles in various critical operations in coastal regions and EEZs. The recent recommissioning of INS Tarmugli is a testament to the Navy''s consistent efforts in bolstering its fleet for national defense and coastal security.

India is pushing for more renewable energy

India is pushing for more renewable energy like solar and wind, but it''s facing challenges with intermittency (generation only when it''s sunny or windy) and a lack of viable energy storage options.

• The final climate deal that was reached at COP 28 did not include a provision that would have required new coal-fired power plants to have carbon capture and storage technology.

• This was the result of strong opposition from India and some other countries, such as China and South Africa, who argued that such a requirement would limit their energy options and impose an unfair burden on developing nations.

• The stance taken by India and other nations against the inclusion of mandatory Carbon capture and storage (CCS) for new coal plants at COP28 reflects a multifaceted perspective on addressing climate change.

Reasons for Pushback

• Cost and Viability: Affordability remains a significant concern, especially for developing countries where resources might be constrained. The additional expenses related to implementing CCS could make coal plants economically unviable.
• Technical Challenges: The developmental stage of CCS technology, coupled with its inefficiencies and scalability issues, poses practical challenges in its widespread application.
• Resource Allocation: Prioritizing CCS might divert resources from developing more mature and economically feasible renewable energy technologies, potentially slowing down the transition to cleaner energy sources.
• Developmental Needs: Nations like India stress the requirement for reliable energy to support their economic growth. They perceive coal, with or without CCS, as a necessary bridge while investing in renewable alternatives.

Implications of Omission

• Emissions Reduction Missed Opportunity: The exclusion of CCS from the final deal limits the potential for capturing and storing substantial CO2 emissions from coal plants, affecting the overall ambition for emission reduction.
• Continued Fossil Fuel Reliance: The absence of immediate restrictions allows countries to proceed with new coal plant constructions, which might impede the global shift towards clean energy.
• Pressure on Existing Plants: The focus could shift to retrofitting existing coal plants with CCS, a complex and costly endeavour.

Possible Future Scenarios

• Technological Progress: Advancements in CCS technology might render it more economically viable and efficient, altering future considerations for international agreements.
• Market Influences: Increased pressure from stakeholders and rising fossil fuel costs might accelerate the transition towards renewable energy sources.
• International Collaboration: Collaborative efforts between developed and developing nations could drive the development and deployment of more affordable CCS technology, facilitating a more equitable global transition.

India’s New Coal Thrust

• India''s recent decision to increase its coal-powered generation capacity, aiming to add 80 gigawatts (GW) of coal power by 2031-32, marks a substantial departure from India''s previous emphasis on renewable energy sources.
• The government argues that coal is essential for India’s economic growth and energy security and that it will use advanced technologies to minimize the impact of coal burning.
• However, critics say that coal is a dirty and outdated source of energy and that India should invest more in renewable energy and energy efficiency. They also warn that coal mining will displace millions of people, destroy forests and wildlife habitats, and pollute water and air.

Key Policy change

• Increased Coal Capacity: The planned addition of 80 GW of coal power represents a substantial boost from current levels, suggesting a move away from the prior emphasis on renewable energy as the primary source of new capacity.
• Policy Reversal: This decision signifies a significant policy shift, steering away from the earlier focus on promoting renewables. It aligns with the government''s perceived need for reliable baseload power, an area where coal plants historically excel compared to solar or wind.
• Baseload Power: Coal plants are known for providing consistent baseload power, a factor crucial for a country experiencing rapid industrial and economic growth. This reliability is a primary driver behind India''s shift towards coal.
• Additional Capacity: On top of the 80 GW target, India aims to add another 60 GW of fresh coal capacity to the existing 27 GW under construction, further amplifying its coal-powered energy generation.

Reasons for the Shift

• Energy Security Concerns: Global energy price hikes and potential supply chain disruptions have heightened concerns about energy security. Coal, available domestically, offers a measure of stability in this volatile landscape.
• Challenges with Renewables: Integrating large-scale renewable energy into the grid necessitates substantial investments in storage and transmission infrastructure, which are still in the developmental stage. Coal power offers a quicker and more seamless integration into the existing grid.
• Cost and Affordability: Coal remains a cost-effective and easily accessible fuel source, especially for developing nations like India. This affordability makes it an attractive option for meeting immediate energy needs.
• Industrial and Economic Growth: India''s rapid economic growth fuels an increasing power demand. Coal''s capacity to quickly provide substantial baseload power supports this growth.

Potential Concerns

• Environmental Impact: Coal combustion is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, exacerbating climate change and posing health risks for communities near coal plants.
• Sustainability Concerns: Reliance on coal could impede the progress and adoption of cleaner and more sustainable energy sources in the long term.
• Public Health: Air pollution stemming from coal plants can have severe health consequences for nearby communities, posing significant health risks.

Balancing the Needs

• Investing in Clean Coal Technologies: Adoption of technologies like carbon capture and storage can help mitigate the environmental impact of coal-powered plants.
• Promoting Renewable Energy: Continued investment in renewable sources like solar and wind remains crucial for achieving long-term sustainability goals.
• Improving Energy Efficiency: Reducing energy consumption across sectors can significantly decrease overall power demand, irrespective of the source 

Problem with renewable

• India has made significant strides in renewable energy, becoming the world''s third-largest producer with over 40% of its installed capacity coming from non-fossil fuels. However, this green push has come with a challenge: intermittency.
• The intermittency challenge poses a significant obstacle to India''s ambitious renewable energy agenda. While the country has made commendable progress in becoming a global renewable energy leader, the reliance on weather-dependent sources like solar and wind has introduced a critical hurdle: unpredictability in power generation.

Understanding Intermittency

• Renewable sources, such as solar and wind, generate electricity based on varying weather conditions. This leads to fluctuating power outputs—high during optimal conditions and low during adverse weather. The resulting challenges include:

• Mismatched Generation and Demand: The irregular nature of renewable power can cause surges or drops in generation that don''t always align with the times of peak demand. This mismatch can strain grid stability.
• Grid Instability: The sudden shifts in power output can destabilize the grid, potentially causing disruptions in the electricity supply, and leading to outages or blackouts.

Impact on India''s Energy Landscape

• Increased Costs: To ensure grid stability despite renewable intermittency, utilities maintain standby thermal plants, incurring high fixed costs. This additional expense often makes renewable power seem more expensive than anticipated.
• Discom Hesitancy: State-owned distribution companies are hesitant to solely rely on renewables due to their unpredictability. This reluctance impedes a smooth transition to clean energy.
• Necessity for Grid Modernization: The current grid infrastructure isn''t optimized to efficiently handle the variability of renewable energy. Upgrading the grid becomes imperative to effectively integrate renewable sources.

Potential Solutions

• Energy Storage: Investments in large-scale energy storage systems, like battery storage, can capture surplus renewable energy during peak generation periods and release it when demand is high or generation is low, thereby stabilizing supply.
• Demand-Side Management: Encouraging consumers to adjust their energy consumption patterns, especially during peak and off-peak hours, can help align energy supply with demand more effectively.
• Grid Modernization: Upgrading the grid infrastructure with smart technologies and advanced forecasting systems can enhance grid flexibility and better manage the variability of renewable energy sources.

Storage Problem

• The recent decision to increase coal generation capacity reveals a stark reality: India''s ambitious renewable energy push is facing a critical roadblock – energy storage. While the rapid growth of solar and wind power is commendable, their dependence on weather makes them inherently variable, creating challenges for grid stability.

Storage Challenge

• Renewable Variability: Solar and wind power output fluctuates due to weather conditions. This unpredictability poses challenges, potentially disrupting grid stability, and causing blackouts as renewables occupy a larger share of the energy mix.
• Storage Challenges: Existing storage technologies, notably Lithium-ion batteries, are expensive and unsuitable for large-scale grid applications. Alternatives like hydrogen and hybrid models are promising but are still in developmental stages, lacking commercial viability.
• Discom Constraints: State-owned distribution companies encounter hurdles integrating variable renewables due to inflexible power purchase agreements (PPAs). This lack of adaptability stifles innovation in grid management.
• Coal Dependency: Policymakers foresee a temporary reliance on coal-fired plants for base load demand due to the absence of effective storage solutions. Constraints in expanding nuclear capacity further contribute to this reliance.
• Cost Concerns: The significant investment required for storage infrastructure is a major apprehension. Estimates suggest a substantial financial commitment, ranging from Rs 5-8 lakh crore solely for battery storage over the next decade, covering a fraction of daily usage.

Possible Solutions and Challenges

• Developing Efficient Storage: Investing in research and government support to explore cost-effective storage solutions like hydrogen and pumped storage is critical. Bringing down costs and enhancing efficiency is essential for scalability.
• PPA Modernization: Revisiting existing power purchase agreements with renewable developers to allow more flexibility is crucial. This adaptability would empower discoms to integrate variable energy sources effectively.
• Grid Modernization: Upgrading the grid with smart technologies and advanced forecasting systems improves resilience to renewable generation fluctuations, bolstering grid stability.
• Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals: While short-term reliance on coal for base load may be necessary, the focus must remain on long-term decarbonization and transitioning to a renewable energy future.

• India''s shift towards increased coal capacity represents a multifaceted challenge with no easy solutions. While it may address immediate energy security concerns, it raises significant environmental and health issues. To secure a sustainable energy future, the government must balance immediate needs with long-term commitments to clean energy and environmental health through careful planning and implementation strategies.

Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments

          Unnati Foundation, a not-for-profit organization (NPO) dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through skill training and employment placement, has made history as the first entity to list on the National Stock Exchange''s Social Stock Exchange (SSE) in India.

Impact on Unnati Foundation (SUF)

Fundraising for Social Impact

• Through the issuance of Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments, SUF raised ₹1.8 crore. This funding will be directed toward training 10,000 underprivileged youths across states, aiming to facilitate their employment.
• This method of fundraising bypasses traditional grants and donations, presenting a sustainable and scalable approach to financing social initiatives.

Enhanced Credibility and Transparency

• Listing on the SSE provides SUF with a platform to showcase financial and social accountability.
• Transparency in fund utilization and reporting builds trust among potential donors and investors, potentially attracting more substantial and longer-term funding.

Impact Measurement and Reporting

• SSE''s requirement for annual impact reports, audited by social audit firms, ensures that SUF''s social impact is measured and documented.
• This data-driven approach allows stakeholders to track the effectiveness of their contributions, holding SUF accountable for its social mission.

Social Stock Exchange (SSE)

• The Social Stock Exchange (SSE) is a specialized platform within a larger stock exchange that allows social enterprises and non-profit organizations (NPOs) to raise capital through the issuance of Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments.

• Unlike traditional stock exchanges where companies issue shares or debt to raise capital, ZCZPs are non-tradable instruments with a face value of ₹1 each.
• Donors receive these ZCZPs in their demat accounts as a symbolic representation of their contribution to the NPO''s social cause.

• NPOs that meet the SSE''s eligibility criteria can list their ZCZP offerings on the platform. Investors can then purchase these ZCZPs through their demat accounts.
• The funds raised are used by the NPO to implement its social projects. At the end of the project period, the ZCZPs expire and hold no monetary value. However, donors have the satisfaction of knowing that their contribution has helped make a positive social impact.

Benefits of the SSE for NPOs

• Access to capital: The SSE provides NPOs with a new and innovative way to raise capital, which can be difficult for them through traditional means.
• Enhanced credibility and transparency: Listing on the SSE requires NPOs to meet certain disclosure and reporting standards, which can help to build trust with investors and the public.
• Increased visibility and reach: The SSE platform helps to raise awareness of NPOs and their work, which can lead to increased donations and support.
• Improved impact measurement and reporting: The SSE framework encourages NPOs to track and measure their social impact, which can help them improve their programs and demonstrate their effectiveness to donors.

Benefits of the SSE for investors

• Invest in social impact: The SSE allows investors to invest in causes they care about and make a positive social impact.
• Diversification: ZCZPs can be a good way to diversify an investment portfolio.
• Tax benefits: In some cases, donations made through the SSE may be eligible for tax deductions.

Challenges of the SSE

• Limited awareness: The SSE is still a relatively new concept, and many investors and NPOs are not yet aware of it.
• Liquidity: ZCZPs are not tradable, which means that investors cannot easily sell them before they expire.
• Standardization: There is a need for more standardized reporting and impact measurement frameworks for NPOs listed on the SSE.

Conclusion

• Unnati''s listing on the NSE SSE signals a promising trajectory for a more robust social impact investing ecosystem in India. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, this model has the potential to drive significant social change and empower NPOs to fulfil their missions effectively. Continued support, education, and regulatory refinement will be crucial in nurturing and expanding this burgeoning landscape of impact investing.

Arctic Report Card

• Recently, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) annual Arctic Report Card was released.

Findings of the Report

• Rising temperatures in the Arctic have led to unprecedented wildfires that forced communities to evacuate, a decline in sea ice extent, devastating floods, food insecurity, and a rise in sea level.
• The 2023 summer was the warmest on record in the Arctic, which, due to climate change, has warmed nearly four times faster than the globe since 1979.
• Overall, the past year was the sixth-warmest year the Arctic had experienced since reliable record-keeping began in 1900.
• The rising temperatures in the northern polar region contributed to unprecedented wildfires that forced communities to evacuate, a decline in sea ice extent, devastating floods, food insecurity, and a rise in sea level, according to the study.

Consequences of the soaring temperatures in the Arctic

• Here is a look at the most severe consequences of the soaring temperatures in the Arctic.

THAWING OF SUBSEA PERMAFROST

• Subsea permafrost is essentially frozen soil beneath the seabed that contains organic matter. While it has been gradually thawing for thousands of years, (now) warmer ocean temperatures are accelerating this process, making it a cause of concern for scientists.
• “Just as with permafrost on land, when subsea permafrost thaws, the organic matter it contains decays and releases methane and carbon dioxide – greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming and worsen ocean acidification.
• To make matters worse, there isn’t enough research to estimate how much greenhouse gases will subsea permafrost release in the following years and what will be its effect on global warming.

FOOD INSECURITY

• Due to the impact of climate change on freshwater bodies and marine ecosystems, Western Alaska recorded another year of extremely low numbers of Chinook and chum salmon — 81% and 92% below the 30-year mean, respectively. The size of adult salmon has also decreased, according to the report.
• It led to “fishery closures, worsened user conflicts, and had profound cultural and food security impacts in Indigenous communities that have been tied to salmon for millennia,” it added.
• Interestingly, while the population of Chinook and chum salmon declined, sockeye salmon increased in number — 98% above the 30-year mean — in Western Alaska.
• The diverging impacts are affecting Indigenous communities that depend on the salmon for food, and challenging fishery managers as the different species respond in unique ways to the warming climate.”

RAGING WILDFIRES

• Canada — 40% of its land mass is considered Arctic and Northern — was among the worst affected regions when it comes to wildfires.
• The country witnessed its worst wildfire season on record with fires burning more than 10 million acres in the Northwest Territories.
• This happened as high temperatures dried up vegetation and soil, coupled with below-average rainfall, creating perfect conditions for wildfires to burn more easily.
• “More than two-thirds of the territories’ population of 46,000 people had to be evacuated at various points and smoke from the fires reached millions more people, reducing air quality as far as the southern United States,” the news outlet added.
• Some areas were 7.2 degrees Fahrenheit or more above average (darkest red). (graph) Summer temperatures (July-September) each year from 1940-2023, showing rapid warming in recent decades.

SEVERE FLOODING

• Rising temperatures have led to dramatic thinning of the Mendenhall Glacier, located in Alaska, over the past 20 years, the NOAA report said. As a result, over the years, the meltaway water has annually caused floods in the region.
• One such disaster took place in August 2023, when “a glacial lake on a tributary of the Mendenhall Glacier burst through its ice dam and caused unprecedented flooding and severe property damage” in Alaska’s Juneau, the study added.

GREENLAND ICE SHEET MELTING

• The NOAA report noted that the highest point on Greenland’s ice sheet experienced melting for only the fifth time in the 34-year record.
• Not only this, the ice sheet continued to lose mass despite above-average winter snow accumulation — between August 2022 and September 2023, it lost roughly 350 trillion pounds of mass.
• Notably, Greenland’s ice sheet melting is the second-largest contributor to sea-level rise.

Indian Tent Turtle

• Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Zonal Unit, Lucknow, seized 436 baby Indian Tent turtles from a person illegally transporting them interstate.

Indian Tent Turtle

• The Indian tent turtle (Pangshura tentoria) is a species of turtle in the family Geoemydidae.
• The species is found in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
• tentoria is found in Peninsular India, Nepal, and Bangladesh at elevations below 80 m.

Habitat

• tentoria is primarily a riverine turtle that occurs in both small and large rivers.
• They bask on rocks and tree snags.
• Females are largely herbivores while males and juveniles are more carnivorous.

Conservation

• The Indian Tent Turtle is a protected species under Schedule 1 of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
• IUCN: Lower Risk/ least concern
• IWPA: Schedule I
• CITES: Appendix II

Blue ''Dragon''

 Japan has unearthed 72 million years old Blue ''Dragon'' that terrorized ancient seas.

• In a recent discovery, the extinct and apex predator mosasaur, a huge marine reptile from the Late Cretaceous period, fossil specimen was discovered in Japan.
• Around 72 million years ago, this massive creature terrorized the Pacific waters.
• In 2006, the remains were unearthed beside the Aridagawa River in Wakayama Prefecture.
• According to a study published in the Journal of Systematic Palaeontology, experts named the reptile after Japan''s Wakayama Prefecture, meaning ''Blue Dragon.''

Features of Blue Dragon

• This underwater predator possessed distinct features that made easy categorization challenging.
• According to experts, the animal featured a crocodile-like head and large paddle-shaped flippers.
• Its back flippers were larger than its front flippers.
• This predator possessed nearly binocular vision, making it a deadly hunter.
• More than five feet long, this aquatic creature also featured a dorsal fin similar to the great white shark.
• The large front fins might have helped with rapid maneuvering, while its large rear fins might have provided pitch to dive or surface.
• The blue dragon''s tail produced intense and rapid acceleration while hunting fish and was used for propulsion.