24-February-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

A GLOBAL CHALLENGE AND INDIA’S OPPORTUNITY

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The world is facing a severe shortage of skilled workers, which is expected to grow by 2030. This challenge presents India with an opportunity to become a major supplier of a skilled workforce to meet global demand.

Global Talent Shortage and Economic Impact

• A FICCI-KPMG report highlights that by 2030, the shortage of skilled workers worldwide will exceed 85.2 million.
• This shortfall could lead to an economic loss of $8.45 trillion, equivalent to the combined GDPs of Germany and Japan.
• India has the chance to claim a significant portion of this economic potential by supplying skilled labour.

Regions with High Workforce Demand

• Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Europe, and Australia are the key regions facing labour shortages.
• Healthcare is a common sector with rising demand due to aging populations.
• Manufacturing and construction are crucial for GCC and Australia, while Europe requires more service-sector workers.
• Emerging industries like AI, automation, big data, IoT, blockchain, and sustainability are shaping future job markets.

Challenges to Global Workforce Mobility

• Immigration and Regulatory Barriers: Strict visa and work permit rules hinder skilled migration.
• Recruitment Malpractices and Human Trafficking: Exploitation and fraudulent recruitment put migrant workers at risk.
• Skill Recognition Issues: Many Indian degrees, especially in medicine, are not accepted globally, leading to underemployment.
• Language and Cultural Differences: Adapting to local languages and cultures affects workforce efficiency.

India’s Initiatives to Address Workforce Mobility

• Bilateral Agreements and FTAs: Agreements with GCC countries and UAE protect Indian workers’ rights.
• Skill Development Programs: Training workers to align their skills with global needs.
• Digital Workforce Platforms: Online recruitment and legal protections to prevent exploitation.

Strategies to Strengthen India’s Global Workforce Position

• Sector-Specific Training to prepare workers for emerging industries.
• Regulation of Recruitment Agencies to prevent fraud and exploitation.
• Recognition of Qualifications through global agreements.
• Public-Private Partnerships to enhance training programs.
• Circular Migration Policies to facilitate temporary employment abroad.

Conclusion

India must continue positioning itself as a trusted source of skilled labour while curbing illegal migration. By tapping into global workforce demand, India can contribute to achieving its vision of becoming a $9-trillion economy by 2030.

MANIPUR’S ECONOMIC CHALLENGES: GST DECLINE AND INFLATION SURGE

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The ongoing conflict in Manipur has severely impacted the state’s economy. The state’s GST revenue growth has slowed significantly, while inflation has risen sharply, worsening financial difficulties for its residents.

GST Revenue Decline

• Early Growth Trends: Between FY18-FY19 and FY19-FY20, Manipur had one of the highest GST growth rates among Indian states.
• Recent Slowdown: In FY23-FY24, GST collections in Manipur grew by 8.9%, ranking fifth lowest among 31 states and Union Territories.

Comparison with National Trends:

• In FY18-FY19, Manipur’s GST growth rate was 5 times higher than India’s average.
• In FY19-FY20, it was five times higher than the national average.
• However, in FY23-FY24, the state’s GST growth fell to three-fifths of the national rate.

Surging Inflation

• Pre-Conflict Period: In January 2023, before the conflict escalated, Manipur had the lowest retail inflation in India at 1.7%, while the national average was over 6%.
• Post-Conflict Rise:
  • By May 2023, Manipur’s inflation jumped to 9.5%, the highest in the country, compared to 4.3% nationally.
  • Inflation remained above the national average in most months since then.
• Recent Trends: In January 2025, India’s inflation dropped to 4.3%, while Manipur’s remained high at 7.4%.

Impact of Internet Shutdowns

Duration and Frequency:

• Internet was first shut down in April 2023 in Churachandpur and Pherzawl districts.
• By May 2023, the shutdown extended to the entire state due to communal tensions.
• The 200-day shutdown in 2023 was the longest in Northeast India and the second-longest in India after Jammu and Kashmir.

District-Wise Shutdowns:

• Churachandpur was the worst affected with 30 shutdowns.
• Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, and Thoubal each had over 25 shutdowns.
• Kakching and Kangpokpi saw 23 and 21 shutdowns, respectively.

Shifting Conflict Zones

• Initial Conflict Areas (May 2023 – June 2024): Fatalities were mostly reported in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Kangpokpi, Kakching, Thoubal, and Tengnoupal.
• Recent Escalation (June 2024 Onwards): The violence spread to Jiribam and Kamjong districts, especially after the murder of a Meitei farmer in June 2024.

Conclusion

The ongoing unrest in Manipur has significantly affected its economy, leading to slowed revenue growth, rising inflation, and prolonged internet shutdowns. Addressing these challenges is crucial for restoring stability and economic recovery.

REDUCING DEPENDENCE ON FERTILISERS: THE SHIFT TOWARDS BALANCED NUTRIENT USE

TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE: THE HINDU

India heavily relies on imported fertilisers like urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and muriate of potash (MOP), which impacts foreign exchange reserves. Encouraging farmers to adopt balanced fertilisation and alternative products can help reduce dependency and improve soil health.

Reasons for Reducing Urea, DAP, and MOP Usage

High Import Dependence

• India lacks mineable potash reserves, making MOP entirely import-dependent.
• Urea is largely produced domestically but depends on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG).
• DAP requires imported raw materials like rock phosphate, phosphoric acid, and ammonia.

Currency Depreciation and Forex Burden

• The falling value of the Indian rupee increases fertiliser import costs.
• Reducing imports can help stabilise foreign exchange reserves.

Imbalance in Nutrient Application

• Urea contains 46% nitrogen (N), MOP has 60% potash (P), and DAP has 46% phosphorus (P).
• High-analysis fertilisers often lead to excessive nutrient application, harming soil health.
• Plants require a mix of macronutrients (N, P, K), secondary nutrients (sulphur, calcium, magnesium), and micronutrients (zinc, iron, copper, boron, etc.).

Ammonium Phosphate Sulphate (APS) as an Alternative

Composition and Benefits

• APS (20:20:0:13) contains 20% nitrogen, 20% phosphorus, and 13% sulphur.
• It is a suitable alternative to DAP while also providing essential sulphur for crop growth.

Efficient Production Method

• APS is produced using rock phosphate, ammonia, and sulphuric acid, requiring less phosphoric acid than DAP.
• It optimises the use of expensive imported phosphoric acid.

Suitable for Multiple Crops

• Ideal for crops like oilseeds, pulses, maize, cotton, onion, and chilli, which require sulphur.
• Wheat, rice, and sugarcane may still require DAP, but its use can be limited.

Growing Adoption of APS in India

Increased Sales of APS

• APS consumption rose by 32.4% from April 2023 to January 2024, reaching 6.5 million tonnes (mt).

• DAP sales declined by 14.1% during the same period.

Market Expansion Beyond Traditional Regions

• APS was initially popular in southern and western states but is now gaining acceptance in northern and eastern India.
• It is a stable product with water-soluble phosphorus and nitrogen, making it more efficient than single super phosphate (SSP).

Leading APS Manufacturers

• Companies like Coromandel International, FACT, Mangalore Chemicals & Fertilizers, and Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative are promoting APS.

Challenges and Government Role

Price and Subsidy Issues

• The government has capped the retail price of DAP at ₹27,000 per tonne, but its production cost exceeds ₹65,000 per tonne, making imports unviable.
• APS costs ₹26,000 per tonne, making it a more affordable alternative.

Expanding the Use of Complex Fertilisers

• Other balanced fertilisers like 10:26:26:0 and 12:32:16:0 should be promoted.
• Selling potassium-based fertilisers only in complex forms can reduce direct MOP usage.

Conclusion

Encouraging farmers to shift from high-analysis fertilisers like urea, DAP, and MOP to balanced fertilisers like APS can enhance soil health and reduce import dependency. Government support, industry promotion, and farmer awareness are key to achieving long-term sustainable fertilisation practices.

ZONAL COUNCILS: ENHANCING REGIONAL COOPERATION IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

Zonal Councils were established in 1956 to promote cooperation among states and reduce tensions arising from linguistic reorganization. They serve as platforms for resolving inter-state and Centre-State issues, ensuring balanced regional development.

Background and Formation

• The idea was proposed by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1956 during discussions on the States Reorganisation Commission’s report.
• Nehru emphasized the need for regional advisory bodies to encourage cooperation among states.
• These councils were created under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956 to address linguistic hostilities and promote harmonious inter-state relations.

Composition of Zonal Councils

India is divided into five Zonal Councils, each consisting of specific states and Union Territories:

• Northern Zonal Council – Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh.
• Central Zonal Council – Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh.
• Eastern Zonal Council – Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal.
• Western Zonal Council – Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu.
• Southern Zonal Council – Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry.

• Additionally, the North Eastern Council (NEC) was formed under a separate law in 1972 and includes all northeastern states, with Sikkim joining in 2002.

Structure of Zonal Councils

• Chairperson: The Union Home Minister serves as the chairman of all Zonal Councils.
• Vice-Chairperson: The Chief Ministers of member states take turns as Vice-Chairperson for one year.
• Members:
  • Chief Minister and two other ministers from each state.
  • Two representatives from each Union Territory.
  • A Planning Commission nominee.
  • Chief Secretaries and senior officials from member states.

Functions and Role of Zonal Councils

• Act as a platform for discussion on common concerns of states.
• Address issues related to economic development, border disputes, and inter-state transport.
• Help in resolving linguistic and minority-related concerns.
• Encourage regional cooperation and Centre-State coordination.
• Serve as action-oriented platforms rather than just advisory bodies, as emphasized by the current government.

Conclusion

Zonal Councils play a crucial role in promoting cooperative federalism by facilitating dialogue between states and the Centre. Their transformation into action platforms has enhanced their effectiveness in regional governance and development.

SUPREME COURT’S RULING ON GAG ORDERS AND INTERIM RELIEF

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Supreme Court recently provided temporary protection from arrest to podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia in cases related to his YouTube content. However, the Court imposed strict conditions, including a temporary ban on his social media activity, raising concerns about restrictions on free speech.

What is the Case About?

• Ranveer Allahbadia, a popular podcaster, faced multiple FIRs in Maharashtra, Assam, and Rajasthan.
• The charges included violations under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the IT Act, and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act.
• He was accused of promoting obscenity through discussions on his show.

Supreme Court’s Interim Relief

• Allahbadia approached the Supreme Court for relief, seeking protection from arrest and consolidation of FIRs.
• The Court granted him interim protection but imposed strict conditions.
• He was barred from posting any content on social media and was required to surrender his passport to the police.

Consolidation of FIRs – Legal Precedents

• The Supreme Court has previously ruled against filing multiple FIRs for the same offence.
• In Parteek Bansal vs. State of Rajasthan (2022), the Court criticized the practice of multiple FIRs, calling it a tool for harassment.
• The Court has suggested setting up a centralized system to handle such cases, similar to the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.

Factors Considered for Interim Relief

• The law does not specify fixed conditions for granting interim relief. Judges use discretion based on key factors:

• • Flight Risk – The possibility of the accused absconding.
  • Threat to Witnesses – The risk of intimidation or influence.
  • Tampering with Evidence – The likelihood of the accused interfering with the case.

• Courts often impose conditions such as:

• • Depositing passports to prevent fleeing.
  • Setting a high bail amount.
  • Requiring regular appearances before the police.

• The Supreme Court has warned against overly strict conditions that violate fundamental rights.

• • In Satender Kumar Antil vs. CBI (2022), the Court ruled that conditions must be reasonable.
  • In Frank Vitus vs. Narcotics Control Bureau (2024), the Court rejected a bail condition requiring the accused to share their live location, calling it unconstitutional.

Gag Orders and Freedom of Speech

• The Supreme Court banned Allahbadia from posting on YouTube or any other media until further notice.
• This is considered a gag order, which restricts speech before it happens.
• Courts generally discourage prior restraints on speech except in exceptional cases.

Past SC Rulings on Gag Orders

• In 2021, the Supreme Court struck down a Kerala High Court condition banning activist Rehana Fathima from using social media.
• The Court also rejected a request to ban Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair from tweeting, stating it would have a “chilling effect” on free speech.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s decision to impose a gag order on Allahbadia has raised concerns about free speech. While the judiciary must ensure justice and prevent misuse of legal provisions, excessive restrictions may violate fundamental rights. The Court’s previous rulings highlight the need for balanced conditions that do not infringe on personal liberty.

FIRST DETAILED MAP OF THE MOON’S SOUTH POLE CREATED USING CHANDRAYAAN DATA

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Scientists have developed the first detailed geological map of the Moon’s south polar region, using data from Chandrayaan-3. This discovery provides new insights into the Moon’s formation and history.

Key Discoveries from Chandrayaan-3 Data

Confirmation of Lunar Magma

• The Pragyan rover confirmed the presence of underground molten rock, known as primordial magma.
• Earlier missions hinted at subsurface magma, but they landed near the equator and mid-latitudes, far from the poles.
• Chandrayaan-3’s landing in a high-latitude area provided strong evidence that the ancient molten ocean once covered the entire Moon.

Geological Insights from the Map

• The map reveals a rugged terrain with highlands and low-lying plains.
• The Schomberger crater was identified as the main source of debris in the landing zone.
• By studying the crater formations, scientists estimated the region’s age to be around 3.7 billion years.

Earth-Moon Connection

• The Moon and Earth share a common history of formation.
• Scientists believe that 4.5 billion years ago, a massive planetary body crashed into the young Earth, leading to the formation of the Moon.
• Geochemical similarities between Earth and Moon support this impact theory.

Importance of Lunar Craters

• The South Pole-Aitken Basin, one of the oldest and largest impact craters in the Solar System, is located near Vikram lander’s touchdown site.
• Lunar craters provide insights into the impact craters found on Earth and other planets.
• Since the Moon lacks an atmosphere, its craters remain untouched for millions of years, preserving important geological information.

Concerns About Lunar Exploration

• Since 1959, several space missions have left debris on the Moon, raising concerns about environmental contamination.
• Scientists fear that human activities may disturb the lunar surface (regolith) and affect its thin exosphere.
• Rocket exhaust gases from landers might contaminate lunar ice, impacting research on water resources.
• With plans for lunar colonization and resource extraction, these concerns could become major challenges in the future.

Conclusion

The new geological map of the Moon’s south pole enhances our understanding of lunar history and planetary evolution. However, sustainable exploration is essential to prevent long-term environmental damage.

WHY VOC PORT NEEDS AN OUTER HARBOUR

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The ₹7,056 crore Outer Harbour Project at V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in Thoothukudi is being revived after over 20 years of delays. This project aims to accommodate larger ships, enhance trade, and boost economic growth.

Reasons for an Outer Harbour

Need for Larger Vessel Handling

• The size of container ships has grown significantly, with some exceeding 400 meters and carrying 22,000 TEUs.
• VOC port can only handle half of this capacity, making expansion necessary.
• Upgrading the inner harbour alone will not be enough to meet future trade demands.

Role in Sagarmala Scheme

• The outer harbour will allow the port to handle 14,000-TEU Neo Panamax and other large vessels.
• This will help VOC port benefit from its proximity to international sea routes and become a major trade hub.
• By 2044, container traffic is expected to increase from 0.74 million TEUs (2023-24) to 2.8-4.3 million TEUs.

Delays and Infrastructure Challenges

• The inner harbour’s depth is being increased from 14.2 m to 15.5 m for bigger ships.
• A planned transshipment port in Kanyakumari has been delayed.
• The inner harbour lacks backup space, limiting its capacity as a container yard.

Impact of Sri Lanka’s Economic Crisis

• The crisis in Sri Lanka has affected Colombo Port, opening an opportunity for VOC port.
• Timely development of VOC port could attract mainline vessels and transshipment business.
• The second phase of the outer harbour will allow handling of vessels requiring an 18-m draught.

Reducing Transshipment Costs

• 65% of containers from Thoothukudi are currently transshipped via Colombo.
• Exporters pay $150 per TEU and face delays of one week due to dependency on Colombo.
• Developing VOC port as a transshipment hub will reduce costs and save foreign exchange.

Industrial Growth and Future Prospects

• New industries like solar manufacturing, vehicle production, and space technology have emerged near the port.
• Rising cargo volume from these industries makes port expansion essential.
• The project, approved in 2005, has faced delays, causing economic losses.

About VOC Port

• Located in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, it is one of India’s 12 major ports.
• It handles container, bulk, and liquid cargo, supporting various industries.
• Its strategic location near international sea routes makes it ideal for transshipment.
• The Sagarmala Project aims to modernize the port for handling larger vessels.

Conclusion

Reviving the Outer Harbour Project will enhance India’s trade capacity, reduce dependence on Colombo, and boost industrial growth in Tamil Nadu.

TALENT SHORTAGE: A GLOBAL CHALLENGE AND INDIA’S OPPORTUNITY

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The world is facing a severe shortage of skilled workers, which is expected to grow by 2030. This challenge presents India with an opportunity to become a major supplier of a skilled workforce to meet global demand.

Global Talent Shortage and Economic Impact

• A FICCI-KPMG report highlights that by 2030, the shortage of skilled workers worldwide will exceed 85.2 million.
• This shortfall could lead to an economic loss of $8.45 trillion, equivalent to the combined GDPs of Germany and Japan.
• India has the chance to claim a significant portion of this economic potential by supplying skilled labour.

Regions with High Workforce Demand

• Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Europe, and Australia are the key regions facing labour shortages.
• Healthcare is a common sector with rising demand due to aging populations.
• Manufacturing and construction are crucial for GCC and Australia, while Europe requires more service-sector workers.
• Emerging industries like AI, automation, big data, IoT, blockchain, and sustainability are shaping future job markets.

Challenges to Global Workforce Mobility

• Immigration and Regulatory Barriers: Strict visa and work permit rules hinder skilled migration.
• Recruitment Malpractices and Human Trafficking: Exploitation and fraudulent recruitment put migrant workers at risk.
• Skill Recognition Issues: Many Indian degrees, especially in medicine, are not accepted globally, leading to underemployment.
• Language and Cultural Differences: Adapting to local languages and cultures affects workforce efficiency.

India’s Initiatives to Address Workforce Mobility

• Bilateral Agreements and FTAs: Agreements with GCC countries and UAE protect Indian workers’ rights.
• Skill Development Programs: Training workers to align their skills with global needs.
• Digital Workforce Platforms: Online recruitment and legal protections to prevent exploitation.

Strategies to Strengthen India’s Global Workforce Position

• Sector-Specific Training to prepare workers for emerging industries.
• Regulation of Recruitment Agencies to prevent fraud and exploitation.
• Recognition of Qualifications through global agreements.
• Public-Private Partnerships to enhance training programs.
• Circular Migration Policies to facilitate temporary employment abroad.

Conclusion

India must continue positioning itself as a trusted source of skilled labour while curbing illegal migration. By tapping into global workforce demand, India can contribute to achieving its vision of becoming a $9-trillion economy by 2030.

VIZHINJAM PORT: A RISING GLOBAL HUB

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala is being developed into a major logistics and transshipment hub. With its deepwater capabilities and strategic location, it aims to strengthen India’s role in global trade.

Key Features of Vizhinjam Port

Deepwater Advantage

• The port has a natural depth of 18-20 meters, allowing it to handle large mother vessels.
• It is strategically positioned near global shipping routes, ensuring efficient transshipment.
• Since July 2024, it has processed 144 ships and 2.9 lakh containers, indicating rapid growth.

Development of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ)

• Plans are underway to establish an SEZ similar to that of another major Indian port.
• The SEZ will include logistics hubs, warehouses, and industrial clusters, enhancing trade operations.
• Strong connectivity with Kerala’s spice and seafood industries will help attract global businesses.

Expansion into a Sea-Air Transshipment Hub

• The port will connect key global trade routes, including Shanghai, Busan, and Rotterdam.
• A new cargo terminal is being developed at Trivandrum International Airport to enhance exports.
• The ₹1,300 crore investment in the airport will improve cargo handling capacity to 2,500 tonnes.

Infrastructure and Connectivity Developments

• Boost in Cargo Handling Capacity: The port aims to handle 5 million TEUs by 2028, boosting its global trade significance. In the first year, it targets handling one million TEUs, setting a record for Indian ports.
• Enhanced Transportation Network: A 10-km rail tunnel is planned to link the port with inland transport, to be completed in four years. Road connectivity to National Highway 66 is expected to be ready in two years.

Economic Impact and Future Growth

• Support for Key Industries: Kerala has identified 22 priority industries, including defence, space manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. The port’s expansion will aid the growth of these industries by improving trade efficiency.
• Expansion in Phase Two: The second phase will focus on doubling trade routes and expanding cargo handling capacity. With enhanced facilities, Vizhinjam aims to compete with major international transshipment hubs.

Conclusion

The Vizhinjam Port is on track to become a global trade hub, strengthening India’s logistics and export sector. With advanced infrastructure and connectivity, it is set to play a crucial role in international commerce.