Daily Prelims Notes 23 December 2024

December 23, 2024
Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
Category: DPN

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Daily Prelims Notes

23 December 2024

Table Of Contents

1. Why Green Deposits Failed to Take Off in India

Sub : Eco

Sec: Monetary Policy

Context:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a framework, which came into effect from June 1, 2023 for banks and NBFCs to offer green deposits, aimed at promoting eco-friendly climate projects and tackling greenwashing (misleading claims about environmental benefits).

What are Green Deposits?

Definition: Fixed-term deposits aimed at funding environmentally friendly projects.
Significance: Reflects growing awareness of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles and sustainable investing.
Popular Themes: Renewable energy, clean transportation, pollution control, green buildings, sustainable water and wastewater management.
Examples: Lenders like HSBC and HDFC have launched green deposit schemes for individuals and corporates in India.

Key Features of the RBI Framework

Objective:
- Prevent greenwashing by ensuring transparency and credibility in claims regarding environmental impact.
Deposit Structure:
- Offered as cumulative or non-cumulative deposits.
- Denominated in Indian Rupees (INR).
- On maturity, depositors can renew or withdraw funds.
Applicability:
- Covers scheduled commercial banks, small finance banks, and deposit-taking NBFCs (including housing finance companies).
- Excludes regional rural banks and local area banks.
Investor Scope:
- Open to corporate and individual customers.
- Banks and NBFCs must have a Board-approved green deposit policy available on their websites.
Sector Eligibility:
- Sustainable sectors include:
  - Renewable energy.
  - Waste management.
  - Clean transportation.
  - Energy efficiency.
  - Afforestation.
- Excluded sectors include:
  - Fossil fuels.
  - Nuclear power.
  - Tobacco.

Challenges Facing Green Deposits

Lower Interest Rates: Green deposits often offer lower returns compared to regular deposits, deterring investors.
Lack of Awareness: Limited understanding among customers and bank staff reduces demand and effective implementation.
Limited Green Projects: Banks face constraints in identifying and financing sustainable, viable green projects.
Design Flaws: Restrictions on eligible activities and unclear definitions of “green” limit the scope of investments.
Regulatory Gaps: Absence of robust frameworks for assessing and verifying green claims leads to inefficiencies.
High Costs: Independent third-party audits and impact assessments increase operational expenses.
Competition for Funds: Green deposits struggle to attract investors prioritizing higher returns over sustainability.
Low Traction: Minimal uptake by banks and private players slows the growth of the green deposit market.

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Principles

Environmental Principles – Focus on how an organization impacts the natural environment and its strategies to mitigate environmental risks.

Climate Change and Carbon Emissions: Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Social Principles – Address the impact of a company’s operations on its employees, customers, and communities.

Community Engagement: Supporting local communities through initiatives like education and healthcare.

Governance Principles – Relate to how an organization is managed, its leadership, and adherence to ethical practices and transparency.

Board Composition and Independence: Ensuring a diverse and independent board of directors.

2. Concerns Over Starlink Devices Allegedly Used by Militants in Manipur

Sub : Sci

Sec: Awareness in IT and Defence

Why in News

The recovery of a Starlink satellite antenna and router in Manipur by the Indian Army and police in mid-December has raised serious concerns. The incident has sparked debates about the misuse of SpaceX’s Starlink technology in unauthorized regions, including India, where its operation is not yet approved.

The Controversy:

On December 16, the Indian Army’s Spear Corps shared images of seized weapons, ammunition, and a suspected Starlink device with “RPF/PLA” markings.
“RPF/PLA” refers to a banned Myanmar-based Meitei extremist group operating in India.

About Starlink:

2015: SpaceX announced the Starlink project, aiming to capture a share of the estimated $1 trillion global internet connectivity market.
Launched first test satellites, TinTinA and TinTinB.
Deployed the first batch of 60 operational satellites using a Falcon 9 rocket.
June 2024: Introduced the “Starlink Mini,” a compact, portable antenna designed for mobile satellite internet use.
Operates a large constellation of Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites at approximately 550 km altitude, ensuring global coverage.
Customers use phased-array antennas to connect to the satellites, facilitating internet access.
A network of ground stations links the satellite system to terrestrial internet infrastructure.
Provides low-latency connections suitable for real-time applications.
Developing capabilities to provide cellular services directly to standard mobile devices, enabling connectivity in areas without traditional cell coverage.

Restrictions on Satellite Devices:

India enforces strict controls on satellite-based communication devices under:
- Indian Wireless Act, Section 6
- Indian Telegraph Act, Section 20
Unauthorized use of satellite phones like Thuraya or Iridium is illegal to counter militancy and terrorism.
Limited Civilian Access: Features like satellite-based emergency services on premium phones, available globally, are disabled in India.

3. Telecommunications Interception Rules 2024

Sub : Polity

Sec: Legislation in news

Why in News

The Union Government notified the Telecommunications (Procedures and Safeguards for Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024 on December 6, 2024. These rules empower enforcement and security agencies to intercept communications under certain conditions and replace Rule 419A of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951.

Provisions of the New Rules:

Union Home Secretary and the State Home Secretary are designated as competent authorities to approve interception.
In “unavoidable circumstances,” an officer not below the rank of Joint Secretary can also issue interception orders.
The Central Government may authorise law enforcement or security agencies to intercept messages under Section 20(2) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
Heads or second senior-most officers (not below IG rank) of authorised agencies can issue interception orders in remote areas or due to operational reasons.
Orders must be submitted to the competent authority within three working days for confirmation.
If unconfirmed within seven working days, interception must cease, and the intercepted data cannot be used.
Agencies must destroy interception records every six months unless required for functional or legal purposes.

Major Differences from Rule 419A:

The earlier requirement of “emergent cases” has been relaxed. Interception is now allowed for remote areas or operational reasons if competent authority approval is not immediately feasible.
Unlike Rule 419A, which allowed unlimited IGP-level officers for interception, the new rules restrict this to the head and second senior-most officer of authorised agencies.
If an interception order is not confirmed within seven days, intercepted data cannot be used for any purpose, including court evidence.

Historical Context:

The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, empowered the government to regulate interception, but safeguards were not introduced until 2007, following Supreme Court directions in PUCL vs. Union of India (1996).
The court emphasised that privacy is a fundamental right, requiring safeguards that are just, fair, and reasonable to prevent arbitrary curtailment.

Interception:

Interception refers to the act of monitoring, capturing, or accessing communications such as telephone calls, text messages, emails, or other forms of digital communication without the sender’s or recipient’s knowledge.
It is typically conducted by governments, security agencies, or authorised organisations for various purposes, including national security, crime prevention, and public safety.
Purpose:
- To address threats like terrorism, espionage, or organised crime.
- To maintain public order, national security, and law enforcement.
Technological Methods: Involves advanced tools like wiretapping, packet sniffing, and network surveillance software to access communication data.

4. Understanding Speed Guns

Sub : Sci

Sec: Msc

Why in News

Speed guns, widely used by traffic authorities and in sports, have gained renewed attention due to advancements in motion-tracking technology and their applications in maintaining traffic discipline and performance monitoring. Their working principle, rooted in the Doppler Effect, remains a key concept in physics and engineering.

What is a Speed Gun?

A speed gun is a device that measures the speed of a moving object without physical contact.
Applications:
- Monitoring traffic speed by law enforcement agencies.
- Tracking the performance of athletes in sports.
- Utilized in industries requiring precise motion tracking.

How Does a Speed Gun Work?

The device emits electromagnetic waves (typically radio waves or laser light) toward the moving object.
These waves bounce back after hitting the object.
The Doppler Effect is applied to calculate the object’s speed by analysing the change in frequency of the reflected waves.
Components:
- Radio Transmitter: Emits radio waves directed at the object.
- Receiver: Captures the reflected waves.
- Processor: Calculates speed based on the frequency shift between emitted and reflected waves.
About Radar Speed Guns: Use radio waves with frequencies ranging from 30 Hz to 300 GHz.
About LIDAR Speed Guns: Utilize laser light, which has low divergence and ensures better targeting.

About Doppler Effect:

Named after Austrian physicist Christian Doppler, the Doppler Effect explains how the frequency of waves changes relative to an observer when the source of the waves is in motion.
Example: A train’s horn sounds higher-pitched as it approaches and lower-pitched as it moves away.
Approaching Object: Wave crests become compressed, increasing frequency (higher pitch).
Receding Object: Wave crests spread out, decreasing frequency (lower pitch).

5. Revised Minimum Mass of Dark Matter Particles

Sub :Sci

Sec: Space sector

Why in News

The minimum possible mass of dark matter particles has been revised by theoretical physicists. This update reshapes our understanding of dark matter’s role and distribution in the universe.

About Dark Matter:

Dark matter is an elusive, invisible substance that constitutes approximately 85% of the universe’s matter. It doesn’t emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it undetectable by conventional sensors.
Its presence is inferred from gravitational effects on visible matter and the large-scale structure of the universe.
In 1922, Dutch astronomer Jacobus Kapteyn estimated the density of dark matter by studying stellar motions near the Sun, concluding a density of 0.0003 solar masses per cubic light-year. This estimate has remained remarkably accurate over the past century.
Revised Mass Estimates: Traditionally, scientists believed the minimum mass of dark matter particles was about 10^-31 times that of a proton.
However, recent theoretical work has increased this estimate to approximately 2.3 × 10^-30 proton masses, marking a significant shift in our understanding.
Researchers analysed stellar motion data from dwarf galaxies like Leo II, inferring dark matter density profiles. By solving modified Schrödinger equations that account for gravity, they matched empirical data with theoretical models, leading to the updated mass constraints.
Distribution and Detection: The mass of dark matter particles influences their distribution and the likelihood of detection. Heavier particles suggest a different spatial distribution, affecting experimental search strategies.

Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs):

Hypothetical particles proposed as a candidate for dark matter.
Weakly interact with normal matter via gravitational and weak nuclear forces.
Expected mass range: 10 to 1,000 times the mass of a proton.
Offer an explanation for the observed gravitational effects of dark matter. Explored through direct detection experiments like LUX-ZEPLIN.
Many experiments have constrained the parameter space for WIMPs, with no definitive detection yet.

Proton:

Subatomic particle with a positive charge, found in the nucleus of an atom.
Used as a reference for estimating the mass of dark matter particles.
Applications: Fundamental in understanding atomic structures, nuclear reactions, and particle physics.

Leo II Galaxy:

Dwarf spheroidal galaxy orbiting the Milky Way.
Distance from Earth: Approximately 690,000 light-years.
Stellar motion data from Leo II is used to study dark matter density profiles. Provides insights into the mass and distribution of dark matter particles.
Inner regions contain high densities of invisible mass, driving the revision of dark matter mass limits.

6. Squirrels are not as vegan as you think — new research sheds light on ‘opportunistic omnivores’ capable of hunting and stealth

Sub :Env

Sec: Species in news

Context:

While squirrels are often associated with adorable antics like nibbling on nuts and shyly peeping from tree trunks, new research has revealed a surprising aspect of their behavior—California ground squirrels can also be stealthy predators, hunting and eating voles when needed.

Key Findings from the Study:

Research Title & Publication: “Vole hunting: novel predatory and carnivorous behavior by California ground squirrels” was published in the Springer Nature Journal.
Research outcome: Out of 74 vole interactions, 42% involved active hunting by squirrels.

Adaptive Advantage of Omnivory:

Survival Strategy: Squirrels’ ability to switch between herbivorous and carnivorous diets allows them to adapt to changing food availability.
Response to Human Impact: This flexibility might help squirrels endure in environments increasingly altered by human activities.

About California ground squirrels (Otospermophilus beecheyi):

Also known as the Beechey ground squirrel.
They are a common and easily observed ground squirrel of the western United States and the Baja California Peninsula.
IUCN status: Least Concern (LC)
They use their cheek pouches to store more food than can be consumed in one sitting to store it for a later date.
They are considered to be mostly herbivorous, with seeds, grains, nuts, fruits, and sometimes roots constituting most of their diet.

Indian Squirrels:

Indian squirrels, primarily represented by the Indian palm squirrel (Funambulus palmarum), are common and fascinating creatures found throughout the Indian subcontinent. Known for their agility and distinct striped appearance, these animals are a vital part of India’s biodiversity.

Key Characteristics:

Scientific Name: Funambulus palmarum
Physical Appearance:
- Medium-sized rodents with soft fur.
- Distinctive three white stripes running down their back (associated with a Hindu legend).
Habitat:
- Found in a variety of ecosystems, including urban areas, forests, and gardens.
- Prefers trees but adapts well to human surroundings.
Diet:
- Primarily herbivorous: feeds on fruits, nuts, seeds, and flowers.
- Opportunistic feeders, sometimes consuming insects.

Behavior and Adaptations:

Activity: Diurnal (active during the day).
Nesting:
- Builds nests in tree holes or dense foliage.
- Uses leaves, twigs, and soft materials for insulation.
Communication:
- Emits high-pitched chirping sounds to signal danger or interact with others.

Conservation Status:

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Threats:
- Habitat loss due to urbanization and deforestation.
- Predation by domestic cats, birds of prey, and snakes.

Source: DTE

7. Syria’s new leader vows not to negatively interfere in Lebanon

Sub :IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

The new leader in Syria, Muhammad al-Jolani has pledged not to “negatively interfere” in Lebanon during a meeting with Lebanese Druze leaders Walid and Taymur Jumblatt.

Druze community:

The Druze are a monotheistic religious and ethnic minority found primarily in the Levant region. Their religion is an offshoot of Islam.
The Druze community is spread across Lebanon, Syria and Israel.

About Lebanon:

Lebanon is a country in the Levant region of West Asia, bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Cyprus lies a short distance from the country’s coastline.
Capital: Beirut

8. The challenges of posthumous reproduction

Sub: Polity

Sec: Legislation in news

Context:

The Delhi High Court recently allowed the parents of a deceased unmarried man to use his frozen semen for posthumous reproduction.
The man had preserved the semen during chemotherapy before his death in September 2020.

Existing Legal Framework

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, 2021:

Governs fertility, infertility, gamete donation, and surrogacy.
Does not specifically address posthumous use of cryopreserved gametes by legal heirs.
Clause 24(f) permits collection of gametes posthumously but only with prior consent of a “commissioning couple,” defined as an infertile married couple.
The Act applies only to infertile married couples and does not specify unmarried individuals or grandparents.

Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2022:

Focuses on regulating surrogacy arrangements but lacks provisions for cases involving unmarried deceased individuals.

Issues with the court order:

The High Court order emphasises that the consent was not implied but explicitly expressed by the deceased.
In the absence of clarity in the law, the Court’s acceptance of this consent raised questions.
The Court treated the semen as part of the deceased’s estate, likening it to human biological material. However, critiques warn this approach commodifies human tissues, reinforcing patriarchal and capitalist systems.

9. Pointing the beacon at India’s undersea warfare power

Sub: Sci

Sec: Defence

Context:

The Indian Navy began 2024 with significant operational and strategic advancements, marked by the expansion of Operation Sankalp to the Red Sea to counter piracy and secure international shipping.
Alongside its continued leadership as a maritime security partner, the Navy made notable progress in undersea warfare capabilities.

Key Developments:

INS Arighaat, India’s second indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), was commissioned in August 2024, enhancing the nuclear triad and deterrence capabilities.
The successful test of the K-4 SLBM with a 3,500-km range positions most of China within striking distance.
The Cabinet approved Project-77 to construct two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) at ₹40,000 crore, slated for delivery by 2036-37, with over 90% indigenous content.
The sixth Scorpene submarine, INS Vaghsheer, under Project-75, will soon be commissioned.
Plans to order three more Scorpene-class boats and implement Project-75(I) for air-independent propulsion (AIP) enabled submarines are underway.
Approved the construction of 100-tonne Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) at ₹2,500 crore. UUVs offer low-cost, high-return options for augmenting undersea capabilities.

Strategic Implications:

A balanced blue water navy is essential to ensure maritime stability and security.
Cooperation with strategic partners aligns with India’s maritime vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
Supports a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific

Blue water navy:

A blue-water navy is a maritime force capable of operating globally, essentially across the deep waters of open oceans.