Daily Prelims Notes 3 December 2023

December 3, 2023
Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
Category: DPN

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Daily Prelims Notes

3 December 2023

Table Of Contents

1. U.S., U.K., Australia defense chiefs tout deep space radar and AI in joint deal

Subject: IR

Section: International Groupings

Context: US, UK, Australia defense chiefs tout deep space radar, AI in joint deal

More about the news:

The defense chiefs of the United States, Australia, and UK convened in California to strengthen their collaboration on deep space radar, AI, and quantum computing, focusing on enhancing their armed forces against global threats, particularly from China.
The meeting in Silicon Valley aimed to build on the AUKUS partnership, established in September 2021, to counter assertiveness from Beijing and Moscow.
The discussions included plans for a “Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability” program, quantum technologies for navigation and weapons direction, and resilient artificial intelligence for precision targeting.
The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

What is AUKUS:

AUKUS is a trilateral security partnership for the Indo-Pacific, between Australia, the UK and the US (AUKUS) which was signed in 2021 that aims for deeper cooperation in the IndoPacific and greater sharing of defence capabilities within the alliance.
Under the pact, the US and the UK will help Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, though not equipped with nuclear weapons. It also allows for greater sharing of intelligence.
It involves a new architecture of engagements across emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cyber capabilities and additional undersea capabilities.

2. After COVID break, Centre approves fourth phase rollout of GIAN scheme

Subject: Govt schemes

Section: Msc

Context: Centre approves fourth phase roll-out of GIAN scheme

More about the news:

Eight years after its launch and a brief discontinuation during the COVID period, the Ministry of Education is set to resume the fourth phase of the Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN).
This initiative, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to bring distinguished scholars from around the world to teach at Indian universities.
The government has allocated a substantial amount, approximately ₹126 crore, for foreign faculty’s travel expenses and honorarium.
Notable experts, including indologist David Shulman and cell biologist Bhanu Pratap Jena, have participated.
The National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) has recommended the program’s continuation after evaluation.
Of the 2,101 approved courses, 1,772 have been delivered, involving 1,612 foreign faculty members from 59 countries.
Phase four applications began in July 2023 after a two-year hiatus due to COVID. The majority of courses were conducted at IIT and NIT campuses, prompting a call for greater involvement in state universities and smaller colleges.
The U.S. contributed 41.4% of visiting academicians, benefitting approximately 72,000 Indian students.
The Ministry of Education is emphasizing the inclusion of video recordings and webcasting in the approval process for phase four, with plans to create a repository of GIAN lectures accessible to universities across India as a teaching and assessment tool.

Some facts about Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN):

Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) in Higher Education was launched in 2015.
It is a program of the Ministry of Education.
An honorarium is paid to the foreign experts to cover their travels and other expenses.
Short term courses are conducted by these experts/faculties in Indian Institutions.
This programme was first launched to establish collaboration between India and The United States of America, but later, the scope of the programme was extended.
The duration of courses differ for different courses. The minimum duration is one week and the maximum duration is 3 weeks.
A lump-sum amount of up to US$ 8000 for 12 to 14 hours of contact and up to US$ 12000 for 20 to 28 hours of contact can be paid to the foreign experts covering their travel and honorarium.
Up to 41.4% (668) of academicians who visited India belonged to the U.S. The rest consisted of experts from the U.K. (143), Germany (93), Canada (89),

3. 1M1B Activate Impact Summit

Subject: IR

Section: International groupings

More about it:

The 1M1B Activate Impact Summit, organized by the Department of Global Communications in collaboration with the NGO 1M1B and supported by the Civil Society Unit, DGC, is an annual event highlighting young changemakers driving impactful initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In its 7th edition, the Summit features 45 young SDG champions presenting Rocket Pitches, engaging in Slam Poetry, and participating in discussions covering Technology for Social Impact, Community and Inclusivity, and Sustainability & Climate Action.
The event aims to inspire global youth to actively contribute to the SDGs.
Additionally, the summit gathers insights for the Summit of the Future 2024, focusing on AI, cyber safety, climate action, and inclusive technologies.

4. Retired judges control arbitration with a tight fist, need reform

Subject: Polity

Section: Judiciary

Context: Retired judges are keeping country’s arbitration system in a tight grip

More about the news:

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted the dominating influence of retired judges in India’s arbitration space, echoing Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s earlier remarks on the system resembling an “Old Boys’ club.”
Dhankhar called for necessary reforms, including potential legislation, emphasizing the need to diversify arbitrator appointments.
He commended CJI Chandrachud for speaking out against the dominance of retired judges, acknowledging the courage required to address the issue within his own fraternity.
Dhankhar stressed the importance of a robust, fast, and effective arbitration system amid India’s explosive economic growth, emphasizing the role of institutional arbitration in ensuring fair and conclusive dispute resolution.

What is Arbitration.

Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where parties to a dispute agree to resolve their differences outside of a court system.
In arbitration, a neutral third party, called an arbitrator, is appointed to hear the evidence presented by both parties and make a binding decision that resolves the dispute.

What are the Mechanism for Arbitration in India.

Arbitration in India is regulated by the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.
The Act draws inspiration from the 1985 UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration and the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules 1976.
Legislative Amendment (2015):
- In 2015, the Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act was enacted to enhance the arbitration process in India.
- Objectives included expediting contract enforcement, facilitating the recovery of monetary claims, reducing court case pendency, and accelerating dispute resolution through arbitration.
New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (NDIAC):
- Established in 2019 under the provisions of the NDIAC Act, 2019.
- Aims to improve the management of arbitration in India by promoting institutional arbitration.
- Provides state-of-the-art infrastructure for arbitration proceedings.
International Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ICADR):
- Founded in 1995 to promote and develop alternative dispute resolution (ADR) facilities and techniques.
- Focuses on facilitating early dispute resolution and reducing the backlog of cases in the courts.

What are the Types of Arbitration in India.

There are two types of arbitration in India: Ad-hoc arbitration and Institutional arbitration.
Ad-hoc Arbitration
- It is a process where a tribunal conducts arbitration using either pre-agreed rules or tribunal-laid rules, in the absence of any agreement between the parties.
Institutional Arbitration
- Institutional arbitration refers to the administration of arbitration by an institution in accordance with its rules of procedure.
- The institution provides appointment of arbitrators, case management services including oversight of the arbitral process, venues for holding hearings, etc.

5. Centre appoints Rakesh Asthana and 6 other as NHRC special monitor

Subject: Polity

Section: National body

Context: Center appoints Rakesh Asthana and 6 other as NHRC special monitor

More about the news:

The Centre has appointed seven special monitors, including former Delhi police commissioner Rakesh Asthana, for the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
The order, effective until September 22, 2025, designates Asthana to oversee thematic areas such as terrorism, counter-insurgency, communal riots, and Left-wing extremism.
Other appointees will focus on areas like cybercrime, artificial intelligence, environment, climate change, human rights, elementary education, literacy, water sanitation, public health, healthcare, mental health, HIV/AIDS, spurious drugs, diagnostics, labs, livelihood, skilling, and employment.
Asthana, a retired IPS officer with diverse experience, previously served in the CBI and faced controversy during a feud with the agency’s then director Alok Verma.

Some facts about NHRC:

The National Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
The Commission is the watchdog of human rights in the country
The Commission is a multi-member body consisting of a chairperson and five members.
The chairperson should be a retired chief justice of India or a judge of the Supreme Court.
Members should be a serving or retired judge of the Supreme Court, a serving or retired chief justice of a high court and three persons (out of which at least one should be a woman) having knowledge or practical experience with respect to human rights.
The chairperson and members are appointed by the President on the recommendations of a six-member committee consisting of –
- Prime Minister as its head
- Speaker of the Lok Sabha
- Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
- Leaders of the Opposition in both the Houses of Parliament
- Central Home Minister
The chairperson and members are appointed for the term of 3 years or till the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.
The chairperson and members are eligible for reappointment.
The Commission also has five Specialized Divisions i.e. Law Division, Investigation Division, Policy Research & Programmes Division, Training Division and Administration Division.

6. UN bars altering Guyana control of territory

Subject: IR

Section: Places in news

Context: UN court bars Venezuela from altering Guyana’s control over disputed territory

More about the news:

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Venezuela to refrain from taking any action that would alter Guyana’s control over the disputed Essequibo region.
The ruling, while not explicitly halting Venezuela’s planned referendum on the territory’s future, stated that Venezuela must avoid any action modifying the current situation in Essequibo.
Guyana had sought the ICJ’s intervention, expressing concerns that the referendum was a prelude to Venezuela annexing the disputed territory.
The ICJ’s legally binding order will remain in place until a final decision is reached in the case brought by Guyana against Venezuela, a process that could take years.
Both countries interpreted the ruling as supporting their positions.
Venezuela, despite not recognizing the ICJ’s jurisdiction, considered it a victory as the court did not halt the referendum plans.
Guyana welcomed the decision, emphasizing that Venezuela is prohibited from annexing or trespassing upon Guyanese territory.
The territorial dispute has a long history, dating back to the 1899 border decision and exacerbated by oil and mineral resources in the region.

Some facts about ICJ:

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN).
It was established in June 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations and began work in April 1946.
The seat of the Court is at the Peace Palace in The Hague (Netherlands).
The Court’s role is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized United Nations organs and specialized agencies.
The ICJ has 15 judges who are elected to nine-year terms by the UN General Assembly and Security Council, which vote simultaneously but separately.
To be elected, a candidate must receive a majority of the votes in both bodies.
A third of the court is elected every three years.
The president and vice-president of the court are elected for three-year terms by secret ballot. Judges are eligible for re-election.
Four Indians have been members of the ICJ so far.
Justice Dalveer Bhandari, former judge of the Supreme Court, has been serving at the ICJ since 2012. Others being R S Pathak (1989-91), Nagendra Singh (1973-88), Sir Benegal Rau (1952-53).
It is assisted by a Registry, its administrative organ. Its official languages are English and French.

India at the ICJ:

India has been a party to a case at the ICJ on six occasions, four of which have involved Pakistan.
They are:
Right of Passage over Indian Territory (Portugal v. India, culminated 1960);
Appeal Relating to the Jurisdiction of the ICAO Council (India v. Pakistan, culminated 1972);
Trial of Pakistani Prisoners of War (Pakistan v. India, culminated 1973);
Aerial Incident of 10 August 1999 (Pakistan v. India, culminated 2000)
Obligations concerning Negotiations relating to Cessation of the Nuclear Arms Race and to Nuclear Disarmament (Marshall Islands v. India, culminated 2016);
Kulbhushan Jadhav (India v. Pakistan, culminated 2019).

Some Facts about Guyana:

The Co-operative Republic of Guyana, is a country on the northern mainland of South America.
Guyana is an indigenous word which means “Land of Many Waters”.
The capital city is Georgetown.
Guyana is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Brazil to the south and southwest, Venezuela to the west, and Suriname to the east.
Guyana is the third smallest country in mainland South America.

7. Battling water woes in land of tragedy

Subject: Science and Tech

Section: MSC

Context:

Over the years, studies have found groundwater in different residential areas outside the factory contaminated with heavy metals and other toxic substances, which could lead to cancer and other diseases.
This is because hundreds of tonnes of toxic waste dumped by the UCIL within its factory premises from 1969 to 1984 and 11 lakh tonnes of contaminated soil have not yet been cleared by authorities, despite court orders and warnings.

What are the Major Findings of the Research?

About: The study reveals that the repercussions of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy extend beyond immediate mortality and morbidity. It has been observed that the impacts of the disaster are visible in a 100 km radius around Bhopal, affecting a wider area than previously reported.
The findings highlight the social costs associated with the tragedy, which continue to afflict subsequent generations.
Health Issues Faced by Survivors: The survivors of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy have experienced a range of health problems over the years. These include respiratory, neurological, musculoskeletal, ophthalmic (related to eyes), and endocrine issues.
Additionally, there has been a significant increase in miscarriages, stillbirths, neonatal mortality, menstrual abnormalities, and premature menopause among women exposed to the toxic gas.
Investigating Long-Term Health Effects: Researchers from the University of California (UC) conducted a comprehensive analysis to assess the long-term health consequences and potential intergenerational effects of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy.
They gathered data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) conducted between 2015 and 2016 and the Integrated Public Use Microdata Series from India for the year 1999, including individuals ranging from ages six to 64 years and those in utero at the time of the disaster.
Disability among Women: Women who were pregnant with male fetuses and resided within 100 km of Bhopal had a one percentage point higher disability rate that affected their employment 15 years later.
Decline in Male Births: There was a decline in the proportion of male births from 64% (1981-1984) to 60% (1985) among mothers living within 100 km of Bhopal suggesting a higher vulnerability of male fetuses to external stress.
No significant change was observed beyond the 100 km radius.
Increased Cancer Risk: Men born in 1985 within 100 km of Bhopal had an eightfold higher risk of cancer compared to those born in the periods 1976-1984 and 1986-1990.
Furthermore, men born in 1985 who continued to reside within 100 km of Bhopal experienced a 27-fold higher risk of cancer in 2015 compared to their counterparts born in the reference periods and individuals living more than 100 km away.
Employment Disabilities: Those who were in utero during the tragedy and lived within 100 km of Bhopal were one percentage point more likely to report employment disability compared to older individuals and those residing further from Bhopal.
The likelihood increased to two percentage points among those living within 50 km of the city.

8. What was the Bhopal Gas Tragedy?

Subject: Science and Tech

Section: Health

About:

The Bhopal gas tragedy was one of the worst industrial accidents in history that occurred on the night of 2-3 December 1984 at the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) pesticide plant in Bhopal, MP.
It exposed people and animals to the highly toxic gas methyl isocyanate (MIC), causing immediate and long-term health effects and deaths.

Causes of Gas Leak:

The exact cause of the gas leak is still disputed between corporate negligence or employee sabotage. However, some of the factors that contributed to the disaster are:
The UCIL plant was storing large quantities of MIC, a highly reactive and volatile chemical, in poorly maintained tanks.
The plant was operating with reduced staff and safety standards due to financial losses and market competition.
The plant was located in a densely populated area with no proper emergency plans or warning systems for the nearby residents.
On the night of the disaster, a large amount of water entered one of the MIC storage tanks (E610), either due to a faulty valve or a deliberate act of sabotage by a disgruntled worker.
This triggered an exothermic reaction that increased the temperature and pressure inside the tank, causing it to rupture and release a large cloud of MIC gas into the atmosphere.

Reactions:

A 2019 report by the UN’s International Labour Organization (ILO) said at least 30 tonnes of the poisonous gas affected more than 600,000 workers and nearby inhabitants.
It added the disaster was among the world’s “major industrial accidents after 1919”.

Laws Passed:

Bhopal Gas Leak Disaster (Processing of Claims) Act, 1985 – Gave the Central Govt the “exclusive right” to represent, and act in place of every person connected with the claims.
Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, – Authorised the central govt to take relevant measures and regulate industrial activity for environmental and public safety.
Public Liability Insurance Act of 1991 – Provides public liability insurance for providing immediate relief to the persons affected by an accident occurring while handling any hazardous substance.
Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act 2010– India enacted the CLNDA in 2010 to put in place a speedy compensation mechanism for victims of a nuclear accident. It provides for strict and no-fault liability on the operator of the nuclear plant, where it will be held liable for damage regardless of any fault on its part.

9. India not among 118 nations that pledged to push green energy

Subject: Environment

Section: International Conventions

Context:

As many as 118 countries DUBAI signed a pledge to triple installed renewable energy capacity by 2030 during the ongoing COP28 climate summit here on Saturday and India is among those countries whose name is not on the list.

Objectives of Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge

The pledge committed to tripling worldwide installed renewable energy generation capacity to at least 11,000 gigawatts(GW) and to double the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements to more than 4% by 2030.

Why didn’t India sign?

As per some apprehensions some of the language in the text was “problematic”.

What are the Initiatives taken by India to Promote Renewable Energy?

National Solar Mission (NSM): The 100 GW solar ambition at the heart of the world’s largest renewable energy expansion programme.
The Wind Energy Revolution: Leveraging India’s robust wind energy sector to boost clean energy manufacturing and the rural economy
National Biofuels Policy and SATAT: Building value chains to reduce fuel imports, increase clean energy, manage waste, and create jobs
International Solar Alliance (ISA): Harnessing the infinite power for the Sun for sustainable human development.
Small Hydro Power (SHP): Harnessing the power of water to integrate remote communities into the economic mainstream.
National Hydrogen Energy Mission (NHEM): Exploring the commercial viability of a versatile clean fuel.
Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Integrating India into the global clean energy value chains.

What are the themes of COP28 Climate Summit?

Emissions Mitigation Targets: Countries will engage in negotiations to set ambitious emissions reduction targets, aligning with the broader goal of limiting global temperature rise set in the Paris Conference (2015).
Phase Down vs Phase-Out: Developed nations may push for an accelerated phase-out, but developing countries, including India, face challenges in balancing energy security needs with emission reduction goals.
Climate Finance: The provision of financial support from developed to developing nations for climate mitigation and adaptation efforts will be a contentious issue.
For Example: Developing countries will need at least $200 billion every year by 2030 to adapt to worsening climate impacts like coastal sea rise or storms, according to the U.N.
Industry-led solutions: COP28 climate summit will likely witness discussions on harnessing industry-led innovations to drive sustainable development and reduce carbon footprints.
Low-carbon Innovation: Emphasis on fostering low-carbon innovations and technologies will be a key aspect of the conference, with a focus on creating a pathway for a sustainable future.
Progress on operationalizing the Paris Agreement article: COP28 climate summit will assess progress on operationalizing the various aspects of the Paris Agreement, including mechanisms for reporting and transparency.
Reforming the role of private sector investment: The role of private sector investment in climate actions will be under scrutiny, with discussions on how private capital can be effectively mobilized to address climate challenges.

10. India will be largest cotton producer

Subject: Geography

Section: Economic geography

Context:

Indian textile industry working towards achieving $250 billion by 2030, including $100 billion in exports, says Textiles and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.
India also inaugurates global cotton producing nations’ meet; also introduces ‘Kasturi Cotton Bharat’, a ‘blockchain traceable’ textile brand .

Key Facts:

Cotton is one of the most important commercial crops cultivated in India and accounts for around 25% of the total global cotton production.
India has the largest area under cotton cultivation and is the second largest producer (after China).
It plays a major role in sustaining the livelihood of an estimated 6 million cotton farmers and 40-50 million people engaged in related activities such as cotton processing and trade.
The Indian Textile Industry consumes a diverse range of fibres and yarns and the ratio of use of cotton to non – cotton fibres in India are around 60:40 whereas it is 30:70 in the rest of the world.
Apart from being the provider of a basic necessity of life i.e., clothing which is next only to food, cotton is also one of the largest contributors to India’s net foreign exchange by way of exports.
The Indian textile industry is working towards achieving $250 billion by 2030, including $ 100 billion export.
Due to its economic importance in India, it is also termed as “White-Gold”.
Also, India will provide leadership in cotton textiles and technical textiles. Technical textiles are man-made fabric meant for a specific function and are not generally used for apparel or aesthetic appeal.

What is the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC)?

It is an association of governments of cotton producing, consuming and trading countries which acts as the international commodity body for cotton and cotton textiles.
Founded at the International Cotton Meeting in Washington, DC in 1939, the ICAC advocates for cotton producing nations, publishes studies and technical information on the cotton industry.
While most of the world’s cotton producing nations are members, two of the ten largest producers (China and Turkmenistan) are not members of the ICAC.
The ICAC along with private sector cotton organisations initiated the International Forum for Cotton Promotion (IFCP) in 2000.
The IFCP serves as a forum and clearinghouse for the exchange of proven cotton promotion techniques.
The IFCP facilitates domestically focused and domestically funded cotton promotion programs.

India’s Efforts Towards Improving Cotton Productivity:

PM MITRA: India has also launched PM MITRA- a Central government scheme to set up mega textile parks and promote the entire value chain.
The National Technical Textiles Mission: It promotes research and development in technical textiles.
The “Kasturi Cotton Bharat” brand: Which is claimed could be traceable using blockchain technology, and that it would be “carbon positive”.
State-of-the-art testing laboratories: The Textile Ministry and the Department of Consumer Affairs would open these labs nationwide to ensure that high quality textile products are manufactured and exported from India.
Drone-based pesticide spraying: Indian cotton farmers will benefit from the technology, adding that the use of innovation and Internet of Things will benefit Indian cotton farmers.

11. BCG revaccination study in adults to begin in 23 States

Subject: Science and Tech

Section: Health

Context:

Twenty three States have consented to participate in the BCG revaccination study in adults that will be undertaken in a “programme implementation study mode” to evaluate the effectiveness of the vaccine in reducing TB disease incidence.

About Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine:

It is a vaccine for tuberculosis (TB).
The vaccine was developed by Calmette and Guerin and was first administered to human beings in 1921.
It is the most widely administered vaccine and is usually a part of the routine newborn immunization schedule.
BCG vaccine also offers protection against non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections like leprosy and Buruli ulcer.
It is often given to infants and small children.
It is rarely given to anyone over the age of 16 because there is little evidence it works very well in adults.

Key facts about Tuberculosis (TB):

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis)that most often affect the lungs.
It is curable and preventable disease.
Two kinds of tuberculosis infection:
Latent TB-The bacteria remain in the body in an inactive state. They cause no symptoms and are not contagious, but they can become active.
Active TB– The bacteria do cause symptoms and can be transmitted to others. About one-quarter of the world’s population has latent TB.
People infected with TB bacteria have a 5–15% lifetime risk of falling ill with TB.
However, persons with compromised immune systems, such as people living with HIV, malnutrition or diabetes, or people who use tobacco, have a much higher risk of falling ill.

Transmission:

TB is spread from person to person through the air.
When people with lung TB cough, sneeze or spit, they propel the TB germs into the air.
Even after inhaling a few drops of these germ, a person can get infected.

12. Six exoplanets found orbiting a nearby bright star

Subject: Science and Tech

Section: Space technology

Context:

Six exoplanets orbiting around a nearby bright star (HD 110067) in the Coma Berenices constellation has been discovered.

About HD110067

HD 110067 is a star with 6 known sub-Neptune exoplanets.
The star is located in the constellation Coma Berenices, which is near Virgo in the northern sky. It is about 100 light-years away from Earth.
The 6 planets in HD 110067 orbit the star in a rhythmic pattern. The planets form a “resonant chain” in successive pairs of 3:2, 3:2, 3:2, 4:3, and 4:3.
NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) detected the star’s brightness dipping in 2020. This indicated that planets were passing in front of the star.

What are Exoplanets?

Exoplanets are planets that orbit other stars and are beyond our solar system. The first confirmation of detection of exoplanets occurred in 1992.
According to NASA, to date, more than 5,000 exoplanets have been discovered.
Scientists believe that there are more planets than stars as each star have at least one planet orbiting it.
Exoplanets come in a host of different sizes. They can be gas giants bigger than Jupiter or as small and rocky as Earth. They are also known to have different kinds of temperatures — boiling hot to freezing cold.

Discovery:

Exoplanets are very hard to see directly with telescopes. They are hidden by the bright glare of the stars they orbit.
So, astronomers use other ways to detect and study exoplanets such as looking at the effects these planets have on the stars they orbit.
Scientists rely on indirect methods, such as the transit method, which is measuring the dimming of a star that happens to have a planet pass in front of it.
Other detection methods include gravitational microlensing– Light from a distant star is bent and focused by gravity as a planet passes between the star and Earth. The same method could hypothetically use our Sun to see exoplanets.

Significance:

Studying exoplanets not only broadens our understanding of other solar systems but also helps us piece together information about our own planetary system and origin.
However, the most compelling reason to learn about them is to find the answer to one of the most profound and thought-provoking questions of humankind — are we alone in this universe?
Another important element of the study is finding out the distance between an exoplanet and its host star.
This helps scientists determine if a discovered world is habitable or not. If an exoplanet is too close to the star, it might be too hot to sustain liquid water. If it’s too far, it might only have frozen water.
When a planet is at a distance that enables it to have liquid water, it is said to be in the “Goldilocks zone” or the habitable zone.

A massive exoplanet closely orbits a very low-mass star

The discovery of a Neptune-mass exoplanet orbiting the very lowmass M dwarf star LHS 3154 challenges theoretical models of planet formation.
The planet, which has a mass at least 13 times that of Earth, tightly orbits a star nine times less massive than the Sun, demonstrating that small stars can sometimes host larger planets than was previously thought.
Although massive planet candidates have been detected around a few very lowmass dwarfs.