Daily Prelims Notes 9 March 2024

March 9, 2024
Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
Category: DPN

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Daily Prelims Notes

9 March 2024

Table Of Contents

1. Backed by BrahMos, the Navy’s Minicoy base to keep watch over the Arabian Sea

Subject: Geography

Section: Mapping

INS Jatayu:

The Indian Navy is significantly enhancing its capabilities with the establishment of INS Jatayu on Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep. This new base will feature advanced radar systems, jetties, an airfield, and coastal batteries equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
Additionally, new infrastructure and facilities were inaugurated at the Karwar naval base in Karnataka, including major piers and residential accommodations, enhancing the living conditions for officers and civilian defence personnel.
The inclusion of extended-range BrahMos missiles and new radar facilities at Minicoy is intended to improve India’s surveillance capabilities and provide a flexible response to threats.

Importance of ‘INS Jatayu’ naval base:

This upgrade aligns with India’s long-term plan to bolster its security presence in strategic locations, particularly to counter the expanding Chinese naval activities in the Indian Ocean.
The importance of this base is underscored by its proximity to the critical Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOC) and its position a few hundred miles from the Maldives.
It also aims to strengthen India’s position in the emerging global maritime order, contributing to the Maritime Domain Awareness network and enhancing the capabilities of the Quad Alliance.
The development also aimed at boosting tourism and accommodating increased demand from tourists, such as the expansion of the Agatti airfield and the development of a dual-use airfield in Minicoy with a longer runway.

Karwar naval base (INS Kadamba):

Code named Project Seabird.
It has undergone significant expansion since its Phase I completion in 2011, which initially allowed accommodation for 10 ships.
This expansion includes the Cabinet Committee on Security-approved Phase IIA, significantly enlarging the base’s capacity to berth 32 ships and submarines, plus 23 yardcraft. Phase IIA features include extensive berthing space, technical facilities, electrical substations, and an iconic Covered Dry Berth for simultaneous maintenance of up to four capital ships.
This phase also introduces four townships providing around 10,000 dwelling units for various personnel and a dual-use naval air station with a 2,700-metre runway alongside a civil enclave for commercial flights.
Unique features:
- The Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya is based at Karwar.
- The base also has the country’s first sealift facility, a unique “shiplift” and transfer system for docking and undocking ships and submarines.
Significance:
- Once fully operational, the expanded base is expected to house approximately 50,000 individuals, significantly benefiting the local economy.
- The expansion underscores the strategic importance of maintaining robust naval capabilities, especially considering the ongoing maritime security challenges, such as drone and missile attacks in the Red Sea and piracy in the Gulf of Aden, emphasizing the critical role of sea lanes in global trade, with over 90% of India’s trade transiting by sea.

Minicoy island:

Minicoy, locally known as Maliku, is an island in Lakshadweep, India.
Along with Viringili, it is on Maliku atoll, the southernmost atoll of the Lakshadweep archipelago.
Administratively, it is a census town in the Indian union territory of Lakshadweep.
The island is situated 425 km west of Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala.
The Eight Degree Channel separates the islands of Minicoy and Maldives.
The Nine Degree Channel separates the island of Minicoy from the main Lakshadweep archipelago.

Source: TH

2. Meghalaya’s Byrnihat most polluted ‘city’ in India

Subject: Environment

Section: Pollution

Context:

In February, Byrnihat, an industrial town on the Meghalaya-Assam border, was identified as India’s most polluted city according to a report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

Details of the report findings:

This report, highlighting the issue of air pollution in urban centres of the Northeast—a region typically perceived as the greenest part of India—revealed Byrnihat’s PM2.5 levels to be significantly high, with a monthly average concentration of 183 µg/m^3.
This level not only surpassed that of Bihar’s Araria, the second-most polluted city, by approximately 60 µg/m^3 but was also nearly 1.8 times higher than the PM2.5 concentration in Delhi, ranked as the 14th most polluted city for the same month.
The findings also placed other northeastern urban centers—Nalbari (5th), Agartala (12th), Guwahati (19th), and Nagaon (28th)—among the top 30 most polluted cities in India for February.
This suggests a concerning trend of escalating pollution levels across the region. Furthermore, out of 11 cities in the northeastern states with continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations, six exceeded the daily National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) prescribed by the Central Pollution Control Board for PM2.5 levels, indicating a pressing environmental challenge in these areas.

Cleanest cities:

Conversely, cities like Sivasagar, Silchar, Aizawl, and Imphal in the northeast recorded PM2.5 concentrations below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), marking them as the cleanest in the region.
However, none of these cities met the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe guideline concentrations for PM2.5.
This situation underscores the urgent need for enhanced air quality monitoring and management, especially given the environmental degradation attributed to unregulated industrial activities, insufficient public transportation, and poor construction practices among other factors.
The report also noted an overall improvement in air quality across India in February, with an increase in cities classified under the ‘good’ and ‘satisfactory’ categories and a decrease in those categorized as ‘moderate,’ ‘poor,’ and ‘very poor.’
This improvement was attributed to better wind speeds, rising temperatures, and possibly reduced emissions, reflecting a positive trend in efforts to tackle air pollution.

Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA):

CREA is an independent research organisation focused on revealing the trends, causes, and health impacts, as well as the solutions to air pollution.
They use scientific data, research and evidence to support the efforts of governments, companies and campaigning organisations worldwide in their efforts to move towards clean energy and clean air. They believe that effective research and communication are the key to successful policies, investment decisions and advocacy efforts.
Registered as a nonprofit in Finland, with staff across Asia and Europe.
Their work is funded through philanthropic grants and revenue from commissioned research.

Source: TH

3. Two key RTI portals under ‘emergency maintenance’

Subject: Polity

Section: Legislation in news

Context:

The Union government’s RTI Online portal, crucial for submitting Right to Information applications, has been temporarily unavailable due to “emergency maintenance” this week, complicating access to previously filed applications.

Details:

Concurrently, the Election Commission’s separate RTI portal fixed a security flaw that risked exposing users’ personal information.
The flaw’s resolution involved coordination with the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-in).
Additionally, the portal experienced difficulties with its payment gateway, now resolved but with limitations on payment methods and the notable absence of the State Bank of India for Net banking options.

Error message:

The government’s RTI Online portal, managed by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, has been experiencing functional disruptions.
The DoPT claimed the implementation of an archival mechanism to enhance the portal’s speed.
The Telangana RTI portal also experienced downtime due to “essential training” for government officers.

About the RTI Act:

The RTI Act, enacted in 2005, empowers Indian citizens to access information from public authorities, fostering transparency, accountability, and participation in governance.
It superseded the Freedom of Information Act of 2002.
Initiatives like the one by Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) in Rajasthan, leading to the state’s Right to Information Act in 1997, paved the way for the national RTI Act.
Section 22 ensures the Act’s provisions prevail over contradictions with the Official Secrets Act of 1923 or any other existing laws and agreements, except for those not covered by the Act.
Constitutional Backing:
- Derived from Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression.
- Recognised as a fundamental right under Article 19, as per the Supreme Court ruling in the Raj Narain vs. the State of Uttar Pradesh case.
Time Frame for Providing Information:
- Public authorities must furnish the requested information within 30 days of receiving an application.
- For information concerning the life or liberty of a person, it must be provided within 48 hours.
- An additional five days are added if the application is routed through an Assistant Public Information Officer or sent to an incorrect public authority.
Exemptions:
- Section 8(1) specifies exemptions, including information related to national security, state strategy, foreign relations, and incitement to offenses.
Implementation Mechanisms:
- The Public Information Office (PIO) plays a key role in executing the RTI Act, acting as a liaison between the requesting citizen and the government entity holding the information.
- Applicants can appeal to the First Appellate Authority within the public authority if dissatisfied with the PIO’s response or if their request is denied.
- A second appeal can be made to the Central or State Information Commission if issues remain unresolved after the first appeal.

Recent Amendments in the RTI Act

Section 44 (3) of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 amended Section 8 (1)(j) of the RTI Act.
- This amendment exempts all personal information from disclosure, removing the previously established exceptions that allowed for the release of such information.
Right to Information (Amendment) Act, 2019:
- This amendment revised the tenure and service conditions for the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) and Information Commissioners (ICs) at both central and state levels.
- The tenure of ICs is now determined by the central government, set for a period of 3 years, as opposed to the original fixed term of 5 years.
- The amendment specifies that the salary, allowances, and other service conditions of the CIC and ICs (both at the centre and states) will be prescribed by the central government.
- The 2019 Act eliminated provisions that allowed for the deduction of pension or other retirement benefits for previous government service at the time of appointing the CIC and ICs.

Source: TH

4. EU will open sea corridor to send aid from Cyprus to Gaza amid famine fears

Subject: IR

Section: Places in news

Context:

The EU has announced the imminent opening of a sea corridor from Cyprus to Gaza, aiming to prevent a famine that has already begun to claim lives.

Amalthea Initiative:

Started under the leadership of Cyprus.
Aim: To establish a mechanism for securely shipping aid from Cyprus to Gaza via sea.
The international backing for this corridor includes a coalition of countries and aims to tackle the complex logistics of delivering aid directly to Gaza by sea.
This corridor is seen as a vital step in delivering humanitarian aid directly to Gaza, about 210 nautical miles away from Cyprus.
The initiative‘s launch is marked by a pilot delivery conducted by the Spanish search and rescue group Open Arms, with food supplied by World Central Kitchen.
While the EU has detailed the shipments’ direct route to Gaza, specifics on landing points, unloading, and food distribution remain unclear.

The U.S. initiative:

This initiative appears separate from a US plan announced by President Joe Biden to construct a floating dock near Gaza for aid delivery, a plan that has faced criticism from aid workers for its feasibility and timeline.
Amidst this effort, the UK has urged Israel to allow more trucks into Gaza.
This initiative comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens, with 30,000 Palestinians reported dead since the start of the war, and parts of Gaza, especially the north, facing famine conditions.

Cyprus:

It is an island country located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea,north of the Sinai Peninsula, south of the Anatolian Peninsula, and west of the Levant.
It is geographically a part of West Asia, but its cultural ties and geopolitics are overwhelmingly Southeast European.
Cyprus is the third-largest and third-most populous island in the Mediterranean.
It is located east of Greece, north of Egypt, south of Turkey, and west of Lebanon and Syria.
Its capital and largest city is Nicosia. The northeast portion of the island is de facto governed by the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Israel- Hamas conflict through map:

Hamas strike on Israel	Israel’s strike on Hamas and Gaza

Source: TheGuardian

5. Murmu presents President’s Standard and Colors to four IAF units

Subject: Polity

Section: Msc

Context:

President Droupadi Murmu on March 8 presented the President’s Standard’s to two fighter squadrons of IAF and President’s Colors to two formations at Hindon Air Force station.

More on news:

This is the first time in the history of the service that four units have been awarded the President’s Standard and Colors together in a single ceremony.
These include:
- No. 45 ‘Flying Daggers’, the first Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) squadron of the IAF and No. 221 Squadron ‘Valiants’ which flew almost one-third of all offensive missions of the IAF during the 1999 Kargil conflict will be at President’s Standard.
- The 11 Base Repair Depot (BRD) and 509 Signal Unit (SU) will be awarded President’s Colors.
The award of the President’s Standard and Colors is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon any military unit.

Presidential standard of India:

The presidential standard of India was a flag flown by the president of India from 1950 to 1971.
It succeeded the flag of the governor-general of India (used during the 1947–1950 period of the Dominion of India) on 26 January 1950, when India became a republic.
It ceased being used on 15 August 1971, when the president began using the national flag of India.
The standard was a rectangle divided quarterly into blue and red quadrants. Each quadrant was occupied by national symbols drawn in gold outline. The symbols were-
- 1st quarter: The Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is the State Emblem of India, to represent unity;
- 2nd quarter: A lively Indian elephant from a 5th-century painting of Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra to represent patience and strength;
- 3rd quarter: A weighing scale from the 17th-century Red Fort, Delhi, to represent justice and economy;
- 4th quarter: A vase of Indian lotus from Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh to represent prosperity.

President’s Colour Award:

The President’s Colour Award is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon any military unit of India.
It is also known as Nishaan, which is an emblem that is worn by all unit officers on the left-hand sleeve of their uniform.
While the practice of carrying the Colour into battle has stopped, the tradition of receiving, holding and parading the Colour continues even today in the Armed forces.
The President’s Colors is very significant, if the unit loses their colors, it is a disgrace for that unit and, if the unit captured the enemy’s colors then it is a great honor for that unit.

6. Department of Consumer Affairs conducts Stakeholders Meeting on Right to Repair Portal India

Subject: Schemes

Context:

The Hon’ble Prime Minister envisioned the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for the Environment) for replacing ‘use-and-dispose’ economy — with a ‘circular economy’ promoting ‘mindful and deliberate utilization’ in place of mindless and wasteful consumption.

More on news:

Circular Economy also incorporates R3 concept i.e. Reduce, Reuse (repair) and Recycle.
The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has taken a significant step through the launch of the Right to Repair Portal India (https://righttorepairindia.gov.in/) on the occasion of National Consumer Rights Day 2022.
The portal provides consumers to avail repair associated information for their products and reduce e-waste.
Stakeholders were called on the basis of grievances registered at the National Consumer Helpline.

Right to Repair Portal:

Right to Repair Portal India encompasses to facilitate and works as a catalyst for providing relevant repair associated information between the companies and consumers.
The information includes:
- Access to product manuals/ repair videos (by linking the websites and YouTube channels of the companies);
- Address the concern on the price and warranty of spare parts;
- Explicit mention on differences in liability covered guarantee, warranty and extended warranty;
- Details of Companies Service Centre across India and Recognition third-parties repairers, if any, by the companies and
- Information on country of origin to be explicitly mentioned.

7. India-EFTA Free Trade Agreement

Subject: Economy

Section: External sector

Parties Involved:
- India and the four-nation European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
- EFTA includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland
Signing Date: Expected to be signed on March 10, after long negotiations.
Aim of the Agreement:
- Increase trade and investment flows between India and EFTA countries.
- Foster job creation and economic growth in both regions.
Expected Impact:
- The India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) is anticipated to attract investments worth $100 billion from the EFTA countries into India. These investments are projected to occur over the next 15 years.
- The influx of investments is estimated to generate approximately one million jobs in India.
Signatories:
- Government officials and industry representatives from all EFTA countries and India are informed about the signing.
First FTA with Investment Commitment:
- This agreement marks the first Free Trade Agreement (FTA) where India secures commitments on investment and employment from partner nations.
Trade Deficit Mitigation:
- The India-EFTA TEPA is expected to help reduce the significant trade deficit that India currently has with the EFTA bloc.

In summary, the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) is set to be signed on March 10, aiming to bolster trade, attract investments, create jobs, and address trade deficits between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries of Switzerland, Finland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.

This agreement is notable as it secures commitments on investment and employment, potentially bringing substantial economic benefits to both sides.

TEPA – Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement:

A Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) is a type of economic partnership agreement between countries. It offers flexibility in negotiating terms and conditions, tailored to the specific needs and interests of the involved parties.

Objective of TEPA:

Aims to boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation between India and EFTA.
Goals include reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, enhancing market access, and promoting investment flows.

About EFTA – European Free Trade Association:

Establishment: Founded in 1960.
Member Countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Headquarters: Geneva.
Purpose: To promote free trade and economic cooperation among member states and with other countries.
Relationship with EU: EFTA has a close relationship with the EU, having signed several agreements facilitating the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people between EFTA countries and the EU.
Strengths of EFTA Countries:
- These economies rank among the highest globally in innovation, competitiveness, wealth creation per inhabitant, life expectancy, and quality of life.
- EFTA companies are leaders in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, machinery manufacturing, R&D-driven technology products, and more.

Trade with India:

EFTA is India’s 9th largest trading partner, accounting for 2.5% of India’s total merchandise trade in 2020-21.
Main Indian exports to EFTA: textiles, chemicals, gems, jewelry, machinery, and pharmaceuticals.
Main Indian imports from EFTA: machinery, chemicals, precious metals, and medical instruments.

Potential Benefits of TEPA between India and EFTA States:

Trade:
- India’s growth and leadership in green technologies could benefit from EFTA’s support.
Market Access:
- Improved access for Indian goods to EFTA markets, where EFTA export products often serve as inputs in Indian export industries.
Investment:
- Expected increase in investment from EFTA states (already over USD 35 billion invested in India).
Mutual Benefits:
- EFTA states can benefit from India’s skilled workforce in the services sector.
- India can benefit from the 400+ companies established by EFTA states, generating over 150,000 jobs.
Renewable Technologies:
- EFTA states can contribute cutting-edge technologies in solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power to India’s green growth aspirations.

Challenges in Implementing TEPA between India and EFTA Countries:

Economic Structure:
- EFTA countries focus on high-tech industries, while India’s industries generally serve lower and middle-tech sectors.
Market Access:
- Addressing issues related to tariffs, quotas, and non-tariff barriers for free and fair trade.
Regulatory Differences:
- Variances in regulations, standards, and legal frameworks between India and EFTA countries.
Securing Domestic Manufacturers:
- Particularly important in sectors where EFTA countries have a competitive edge, such as pharmaceuticals and machinery manufacturing.
Environmental and Social Considerations:
- Addressing challenges like promoting sustainable development and gender equality.

Conclusion:

For a successful TEPA between India and EFTA, addressing outstanding issues, identifying areas of mutual benefit, and promoting collaboration on skilled labor are crucial. Strong political involvement and guidance are necessary for a swift negotiation process.

8. EoUs and SEZs to get RoDTEP sops until September 30

Subject: Economy

Section: External sector

The announcement made by the Centre regarding the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme includes the eligibility of outbound shipments from Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Export Oriented Units (EOUs) for tax refunds. This move is significant as SEZs and EOUs collectively account for about a quarter of India’s total exports.

Scope of Eligibility:
- Outbound shipments from SEZs and EOUs will now qualify for tax refunds under the RoDTEP Scheme.
- This extends the benefit of the RoDTEP Scheme to these entities, recognizing their substantial contribution to India’s export landscape.
Advance Authorisation (AA) Scheme:
- Exporting firms utilizing the Advance Authorisation (AA) scheme will also be covered under the RoDTEP Scheme.
- The AA scheme allows duty-free import of inputs that are physically incorporated into the exported products.
- By including AA scheme users, the RoDTEP Scheme aims to incentivize and support exporters who rely on duty-free imports for their manufacturing processes.
Objective:
- The RoDTEP Scheme is designed to promote exports by refunding duties and taxes incurred on the export of goods.
- By providing tax refunds, the scheme aims to make Indian exports more competitive in the global market and boost the country’s overall export performance.
Commerce and Industry Minister’s Statement:
- Commerce and Industry Ministry announced the extension of the RoDTEP Scheme to SEZs, EOUs, and AA scheme users.
- This move is part of the government’s efforts to support and promote the growth of India’s export sector, particularly in key areas such as SEZs and EOUs.
Significance:
- SEZs and EOUs play a crucial role in India’s export ecosystem, offering various benefits and incentives to businesses operating within these zones.
- By including these entities under the RoDTEP Scheme, the government aims to further encourage exports from these zones, thereby driving economic growth and employment.

About SEZs:

An SEZ is a designated territory within a country that operates under special economic regulations and incentives.
Purpose: SEZs are established to encourage investment, boost exports, create employment opportunities, and enhance ease of doing business.
Evolution in India:
- Asia’s first Export Processing Zone (EPZ) was set up in Kandla, Gujarat in 1965.
- India shifted from EPZs to SEZs in 2000 to address infrastructural and bureaucratic challenges.
- The Special Economic Zones Act was enacted in 2005, with the rules coming into effect in 2006.

Current Status of SEZs in India:

Number and Location:
- India presently has 378 notified SEZs, out of which 265 are operational, as on March 2021
- The majority of SEZs, about 64%, are located in five states: Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
Apex Body: The Board of Approval, headed by the Secretary of the Department of Commerce, oversees SEZs.
Baba Kalyani Committee:
- In 2018, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry formed the Baba Kalyani-led committee to evaluate and suggest improvements to the SEZ policy.
- The committee aimed to align the SEZ policy with global best practices and make it WTO-compatible.

Major Incentives and Facilities:

Duty-free import or domestic procurement of goods for SEZ units’ development, operation, and maintenance.
Exemption from various taxes such as Income Tax and minimum alternate tax.
External commercial borrowing by SEZ units up to US $500 million annually.
Single window clearance for approvals at the Central and State levels.

Challenges Faced:

Underutilized Land:
- Lack of demand for SEZ space, exacerbated by disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Multiple Economic Zone Models:
- Challenges in integrating various models like SEZs, coastal economic zones, industrial corridors, etc.
Competition from ASEAN Countries:
- ASEAN countries’ policies attracting global investments to their SEZs, leading to increased competition.

About Export Oriented Units (EoUs)

EOUs, or Export Oriented Units, are industrial plants or facilities set up for the purpose of producing goods or services primarily for export. These units are established under the Export Oriented Unit (EOU) Scheme which is governed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in India.

Purpose:

Export Focus: EOUs are dedicated to producing goods and services specifically for export markets.
Boost Exports: The main objective of EOUs is to promote exports from India by providing certain incentives and facilities to manufacturers.

Benefits and Incentives:

Duty-Free Imports: EOUs can import raw materials, components, and capital goods without paying customs duties.
Tax Benefits: Exemption from Central Excise duty on goods procured domestically for production.
Foreign Exchange: EOUs can retain and utilize 100% of foreign exchange earnings.
Infrastructure Support: Access to infrastructure facilities like customs clearance, banking, and security services.
Simplified Procedures: Single-window clearance for various approvals and licenses.

Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme:

The RoDTEP scheme, introduced to replace the Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS), has been notified by the Government of India, outlining rates and norms to support exporters.

Objective: To refund embedded central, state, and local duties or taxes that were not previously rebated, addressing the non-compliance issues with the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

Key Features:

Scope:
- Covers 8,555 tariff lines, constituting around 75% of traded items and 65% of India’s exports.
- Budgetary allocation of ₹12,454 crore for the fiscal year 2021-22.
Zero Rating of Exports:
- Aims to achieve zero rating of exports by ensuring that domestic taxes are not exported.
Refund Mechanism:
- Refunds encompass all taxes, including those levied by states and local bodies.
- Refund rates, considered WTO-compliant, range from 0.5% to 4.3% of the Free On Board (FOB) value of outbound consignments.
Rate Variation:
- Rates vary based on the product category. For example:
  - Lowest rates for items like chocolates, toffees, and sugar confectionery.
  - Highest rates for yarns and fibers.
  - Exclusion of certain sectors like steel, pharma, and chemicals.

International Standards and Automatic Refunds:
- Enables Indian exporters to meet international standards for exports.
- Provides affordable testing and certification within the country, reducing dependence on international organizations.
- Facilitates automatic tax assessment and refunds for GST, streamlining the process for exporters.

The RoDTEP scheme aligns with India’s efforts to facilitate a conducive environment for exporters, promoting economic growth and enhancing the country’s position in the global market.

About Advance Authorization Scheme

The Advance Authorization Scheme, implemented by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Foreign Trade Policy, is a encouraging program for exporters in India.

Overview:

The Advance Authorization Scheme allows for the duty-free import of inputs that are necessary for the production of export goods. These inputs can include raw materials, components, parts, packaging materials, fuel, oil, and catalysts that are used or consumed in the manufacturing process of export products.

Purpose:

The main objective of the scheme is to promote exports by enabling exporters to import inputs without paying duty. This reduces the cost of production for export goods, making them more competitive in the global market.

Benefits:

Simplified Process:
Shorter Turnaround Times:
Ease of Doing Business:
Reduced Compliance Burden:
Validity: An Advance Authorization is typically valid for 12 months from the date of its issue. During this period, the authorized holder can import the specified quantity of duty-free inputs for use in the production of export goods.

Conclusion:

The Advance Authorization Scheme is a valuable tool for Indian exporters, offering them the opportunity to import necessary inputs without incurring duty costs. The creation of a searchable norms database by the DGFT further enhances the scheme’s efficiency, enabling exporters to benefit from shorter processing times, reduced compliance burdens, and improved competitiveness in international markets. This trade facilitation measure aligns with the government’s efforts to promote exports and boost the country’s economic growth.

9. Advisory to airlines by FSSAI

Subject: Polity

Section: National Body

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory to airlines regarding the proper labeling and compliance with food safety regulations for food served on flights.

Labeling Requirements:

Use by Date and Time: Airlines must ensure that prepared food served on flights is properly labeled with essential information, including the “use by date and time.”
Caterer’s Name: The packaging of in-flight meals should prominently display the name of the caterer or manufacturer.
FSSAI License Number: Passengers should be made aware of the FSSAI license numbers of both the caterer/manufacturer and the airline.
Packaging Details: Other essential details such as the date and time of packaging must be provided on the packaging, as per the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020.

Compliance with Food Safety Laws:

FSSAI Act and Regulations: Flight kitchen operators and in-flight food-service providers must comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and its rules and regulations, including the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020.
Licensing Norms: Airlines are directed to ensure compliance with licensing norms, especially when selling pre-packaged food products and private-label products.
Grievance Redressal: Passengers should be informed that they can lodge food-related grievances on the FSSAI’s Food Safety Connect App.

Surveillance and Inspection:

Supply Chain Inspection: FSSAI has conducted a surveillance drive to inspect the supply chain of food served to in-flight passengers.
Observations: Discrepancies were observed in the description of “Kind of Business” in the FSSAI licenses of flight kitchen operators.
Food Preparation: Food is prepared by flight kitchen operators located near airports and then transported to flights through specialized vehicles like insulated refrigerated vans/wagons.

Licensing Clarifications:

Kind of Business: Flight kitchen operators are asked to describe themselves as “food services (caterer)” in their FSSAI license applications.
Separate License: Firms transporting food to flights from flight kitchens must obtain a separate FSSAI license.
Single License for Airlines: Airlines can obtain one FSSAI license instead of separate licenses in different states.
Pre-Packaged Food: Airlines selling pre-packaged food should indicate themselves as “retailer” in the license.
Manufacturing or Importing: Airlines getting pre-packaged food products manufactured or imported under their brand name should obtain an appropriate manufacturing or importer license.
Storage of Food: Airlines involved in storing food also need to obtain a separate FSSAI license.

Compliance and Enforcement:

The FSSAI advisory aims to ensure that airlines and food service providers comply with food safety regulations, maintain transparency in labeling, and provide passengers with safe and hygienic food during flights.

The advisory from FSSAI underscores the importance of food safety, proper labeling, and compliance with regulations to protect the health and well-being of airline passengers. Airlines are urged to adhere to these guidelines to maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.

About Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.

Establishment and Mandate:

Establishment: FSSAI was established to consolidate various laws related to food safety and standards in India. The Act of 2006 brought together laws such as the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, the Fruit Products Order, 1955, the Meat Food Products Order, 1973, and others.
Central Reference Point: The Act aimed to establish a single reference point for all matters relating to food safety and standards.
Responsibilities: FSSAI is responsible for protecting and promoting public health by regulating and supervising food safety and quality in India.
It operates under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

Organizational Structure:

Headquarters: FSSAI has its headquarters in New Delhi.
Regional Offices: It has regional offices in eight zones across the country to facilitate efficient monitoring and enforcement.
Leadership: The Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of FSSAI are appointed by the central government. The Chairperson holds the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.

Functions and Powers:

Regulations and Standards: FSSAI frames regulations and standards for various food products and additives to ensure safety and quality.
Licensing and Registration: It grants licenses and registrations to food businesses after ensuring compliance with standards.
Enforcement: FSSAI enforces food safety laws and regulations through monitoring, surveillance, and inspections.
Risk Assessment: The authority conducts risk assessment and scientific research on food safety issues to guide its policies.
Training and Awareness: FSSAI provides training and awareness programs on food safety and hygiene to stakeholders.
Promotion of Food Fortification: It promotes initiatives such as food fortification and the consumption of organic food.
Coordination: FSSAI collaborates with other agencies and stakeholders on food safety matters to ensure a holistic approach.

Events and Campaigns:

World Food Safety Day: FSSAI observes and promotes World Food Safety Day to raise awareness about safe and nutritious food.
Eat Right India: This campaign aims to promote healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices.
Eat Right Station: FSSAI’s initiative to ensure availability of healthy food options at railway stations.
Eat Right Mela: Events organized to promote awareness about food safety and nutrition.
State Food Safety Index: A tool to measure and rank states based on their food safety performance.
RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil): FSSAI’s initiative to collect and convert used cooking oil into biodiesel.
Food Safety Mitra: A scheme to engage and train individuals as food safety supervisors.
100 Food Streets: A project to promote safe and hygienic street food vending.

About Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS):

National Standard Body: BIS is the National Standard Body of India established under the BIS Act 2016.
Responsibilities: It oversees the harmonious development of standardization, marking, and quality certification of goods.
Consumer Protection: The BIS Act empowers the government to authorize agencies beyond BIS for certification and enforcement of standards, enhancing consumer protection.
Headquarters: BIS has its headquarters in New Delhi.

Agricultural Marketing (AGMARK):

Certification Mark: AGMARK is a certification mark for agricultural produce, ensuring conformity to specified grade standards.
Mandate: It assures quality and differentiates between grades for various agricultural commodities.
Grade Standards: DMI under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare notifies grade standards for agricultural products.

10. Burkina Faso youth join fight to end female genital mutilation

Subject: IR

Section: Places in news

Youngsters in Burkina Faso are joining the state in the fight against female genital mutilation (FGM) as population displacement caused by jihadist violence threatens significant progress made over the last decade. Cases of FGM have been recorded in areas to where people affected by the violence have fled.

Since 2015, almost 20,000 people have died in the unrest and more than two million been displaced in the Sahel nation of 23 million inhabitants, the majority of whom are women

What is Female genital mutilation (FGM)?

Female genital mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The practice has no health benefits for girls and women and cause severe bleeding and problems urinating, and later cysts, infections, as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths.

Burkina Faso

It is a landlocked country in West Africa, is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and struggles with poverty and political instability.

Bordering countries

Mali to the northwest
Niger to the northeast
Benin to the southeast
Togo and Ghana to the south
Ivory Coast to the southwest

11. Children fall to hunger in Gaza as Israeli siege cuts off supplies- ‘khubaiza.’

Subject: Environment

Section: Species in news

Context: After months of warnings over the risk of famine in Gaza under Israel’s bombardment, offensives and siege, children are starting to die

Khubaiza: weed that crops up in empty lots.