‘No basis to seek…': US disagrees to India asking for WTO consultations on auto tariffs; calls it ‘essential security exception'
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The United States notified the WTO on Monday that the automotive tariffs were implemented under Section 232, a national security provision, and that the country continues to maintain these measures under the essential security exception within global trade regulations. US said it was 'maintaining these actions pursuant to the essential security exception.'
India had asked for consultations with the United States after the latter implemented a 25% ad valorem tariff increase on imports of passenger vehicles, light trucks, and specific automobile parts originating from India.
The automotive components measure took effect from May 3, 2025, without any specified end date, according to an ET report.
US rejects India seeking WTO consultations
India had raised concerns about the US's failure to notify the WTO Committee regarding safeguard measures under the Agreement on Safeguards (AoS) provisions.
Global auto parts imports to the US totalled $89 billion in the previous year, with Mexico supplying $36 billion, China $10.1 billion, and India contributing $2.2 billion.
The United States has said that its actions were not taken under Section 201 of the Trade Act of 1974, which governs safeguard measures. The US added that consultations under the Agreement on Safeguards were not applicable as these were not safeguard measures.
The US response mirrors its stance on India's proposed retaliatory duties on 29 US products, including apples, almonds, pears, anti-freezing preparations, boric acid and specific iron and steel items. These were intended to counter US tariffs on steel and aluminium, which India reported would impact $7.6 billion of US imports.
These WTO discussions come amidst ongoing negotiations for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between the two nations. US trade representatives visited New Delhi from June 4-10 for discussions regarding the trade pact.
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Business Standard
13 minutes ago
- Business Standard
European Union readies €100 bn no-deal plan to match US 30% tariff
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The tariffs would be prepared to come into force next month but only if there is no deal and the US implements its levies after the August deadline, said the people who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations. The euro extended a fall after the report, down 0.3 per cent at $1.1723, leading losses among major currencies. German bonds trimmed an earlier decline. The plans come as EU member states, including Germany, have hardened their positions in response to the US stiffening its negotiating stance. Berlin would be willing to even support the activation of the EU's anti-coercion instrument, or ACI, in a no-deal scenario, a government official said on condition of anonymity. This tool would come into play only if a deal fails to materialise. Trump announced two tariff deals on Tuesday — one with the Philippines and another with Japan, and both featured across-the-board duties on their imports that were lower than initially threatened. Also noteworthy was the 15 per cent US levy on Japanese autos that was lower than the current 25 per cent rate on major car exporters including the EU. European leaders are in Tokyo and Beijing this week for talks with some of the the bloc's biggest trading partners in Asia. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking with Bloomberg Television on Wednesday, said the EU hasn't yet brought anything as innovative as the Japanese offer. 'Talks are going better than they had been,' he said in the interview. 'I think that we are making good progress with the EU, but as I've said before, the EU has a collective action problem with 27 countries.' The EU's most potent trade tool is the ACI, and a growing number of member states is pushing for its use if a deal isn't reached. The instrument is primarily designed as a deterrent and is currently not on the table, with its activation requiring a qualified majority of member states to support the move. The ACI would enable the EU to launch a broad range of retaliatory actions, including new taxes on US tech giants, targeted curbs on US investments, and limiting access to the EU market. 'We are now approaching the decisive phase in the tariff dispute with the USA — we need a fair, reliable agreement with low tariffs,' German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told reporters in Berlin on Tuesday after a meeting with his Czech counterpart Petr Fiala. 'Without such an agreement, we risk economic uncertainty at a time when we actually need exactly the opposite.' The Commission, the EU's executive arm, is discussing the instrument with member states, the people said. While some capitals having been pushing to use the tool, most want to wait to see how the situation develops beyond Aug. 1 before progressing discussions further to try to achieve the required majority, they added. The overwhelming preference is to keep negotiations with Washington on track in a bid for an outcome to the impasse ahead of next month's deadline. EU and US negotiators are scheduled to continue talks on Wednesday. The US is now seen to want a near-universal tariff on EU goods higher than 10 per cent, with increasingly fewer exemptions limited to aviation, some medical devices and generic medicines, several spirits, and a specific set of manufacturing equipment that the US needs, Bloomberg previously reported. The two sides have also discussed a potential ceiling for some sectors, as well as quotas for steel and aluminum and a way to ring-fence supply chains from sources that oversupply the metals. Any agreement would need Trump's sign off – and his position isn't clear. The US president wrote to the EU earlier in the month, warning of a 30 per cent tariff on most of its exports from Aug. 1. 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Indian Express
13 minutes ago
- Indian Express
UPSC Key: Vice President of India, MiG-21 and Biostimulants
Important topics and their relevance in UPSC CSE exam for July 23, 2025. If you missed the July 22, 2025 UPSC CSE exam key from the Indian Express, read it here FRONT PAGE Dhankhar accepting Opposition notice to impeach judge rubbed Govt 'wrong way' Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. Mains Examination: General Studies II: Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. What's the ongoing story: With no word from the government on the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, barring an acknowledgement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday noon, what precipitated his sudden move is being attributed to two signature-collection drives to move a motion to impeach Allahabad High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma for the alleged cash found in his premises. Key Points to Ponder: • What is the term of office of the vice president of India? • What happens if the Vice-President of India resigns mid-term? • Who does the Vice-President of India tender his resignation to? • How electoral college for the election of the Vice President is different from the President? • To be eligible for election as Vice President, a person should fulfil certain qualifications-What are they? • The oath of office to the Vice President is administered by Whom? • Know Powers And Functions of the Vice President • What are the constitutional and statutory framework governing mid-term Vice Presidential elections in India? • What is the distinction between 'submission' and 'admission' of an impeachment notice? • What are the constitutional gap that arises due to the absence of a Vice-President and Chairman during an ongoing session? • The office of the Indian Vice President and the American Vice President-Compare and Contrast • 'The independence and neutrality of parliamentary presiding officers are critical for the smooth functioning of democracy.'-Discuss Key Takeaways: • The first of these was by the Opposition which started two weeks ago but picked up momentum Sunday, to collect at least 50 signatures – the minimum needed to move a motion in the Rajya Sabha – to initiate the removal of Justice Varma. • The government saw this as a move by the Opposition to undercut its own motion in this regard in the Lok Sabha, for which it had collected 145 signatures – the minimum for Lok Sabha is 100 – including those of the Opposition. Incidentally, in the run-up to the monsoon session, the Government had made it clear that it would move a motion to impeach the judge. • The Modi government hoped that the removal of Justice Varma then would be by 'consensus' and not seen as partisan. (The motion to remove a judge can be initiated in either House.) • According to sources, the government was not too happy about Dhankhar accepting the motion, upstaging its own initiative in the Rajya Sabha. A frantic exercise began allegedly then to rustle up signatures of NDA MPs. Do You Know: • Article 63 of the Constitution states that 'there shall be a Vice-President of India'. Under Article 64, the Vice President 'shall be ex officio Chairman of the Council of the States' (Rajya Sabha). • The Vice President holds the nation's second-highest office. In the official warrant of precedence, he is given a rank next to the President. The design of this position is based on the American vice president. • Article 65 says that 'in the event of the occurrence of any vacancy in the office of the President by reason of his death, resignation or removal, or otherwise, the Vice-President shall act as President until the date on which a new President…enters upon his office'. • The Vice-President shall also discharge the functions of the President when the latter is unable to do so 'owing to absence, illness or any other cause'. • Article 66 lays down the process of the election of the Vice-President. • The Vice-President serves a term of five years from the date he assumes office. However, he may resign at any time by submitting a resignation letter to the President. He can also be removed from office before the completion of his term without the need for a formal impeachment process. Removal requires a resolution passed by the Rajya Sabha with an absolute majority (a majority of the total members of the House) and approved by the Lok Sabha. Such a resolution can only be moved after providing at least 14 days' prior notice. Importantly, the Constitution does not specify any grounds for the Vice-President's removal. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍Why RS may not see a new Chairman before Monsoon Session ends 📍A very political V-P Previous year UPSC Main Question Covering similar theme: 📍Discuss the role of the Vice –Presidents of India as the chairman of the Rajya Sabha. (2022) IAF to retire MiG-21 fighter jets in Sept, after six decades of service Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Mains Examination: • General Studies II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. • General Studies III: Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate. What's the ongoing story: After protecting the Indian skies through all major conflicts over more than six decades, the legendary MiG-21 fighter jets are set to retire in September. Key Points to Ponder: • What is MiG-21 Bison? • What is the phase-out plan of the aircraft? • Why does the IAF continue flying the MiG aircraft? • How many MiG-21 are there in Indian Air Force? • Why so many MiG-21 crashes in India? • Why MiG-21s have earned the nicknames 'flying coffin' and 'widow maker'? • What are the policy paralysis with which Indian Air Force taking time to replace MiG-21 fighter jets with more capable aircraft like the SU-30? • A soldier serves with the concept of unlimited liability-What do you understand by this statement? • Can you recall Flt Lt Abhijit Gadgil case in 2001? (Hint: The movie 'Rang de Basanti' was loosely based on him) • Air safety measures for Pilots in defence-Know in detail Key Takeaways: • Sources in the military told The Indian Express that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to retire the remaining Russian-origin MiG-21 fleet in a ceremonial decommissioning on September 19 at the Chandigarh airbase. Two squadrons of the MiG-21 Bisons are currently active. • India procured more than 700 MiG-21 aircraft of different variants, such as the Type-77, Type-96, BIS and the Bison, since the aircraft's induction in the IAF in 1963. • The phasing out of the aging MiG-21 fleet was originally scheduled to be concluded by 2022, but was held up due to the delay in the planned induction of other fighter jets, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, which are set to replace the MiG-21 squadrons. • Between 2017 and 2024, at least four MiG-21 squadrons were phased out. India has a sanctioned fighter squadron strength of 42, but has 31 active squadrons. The phasing out of the MiG-21 fleet will further bring down IAF's active fighter squadrons. Do You Know: • The MiG-21 Bison, which comprises the last two squadrons to be retired, is one of India's six fighter jets. The single engine, single-seater multi-role fighter/ground attack aircraft has been a key fighter jet with the IAF. The Bison is the latest upgrade of the MiG-21 jets. Over 100 MiG-21s of the IAF have been upgraded to Bison in the last nearly three decades. • The MiG-21 Bison upgrades included avionics and communication systems, electronics, multi-function display cockpits, the Kopyo light-weight multi-mode radar, radio sets, electronic warfare suite, inertial navigation system/GPS, a helmet-mounted display and a better windshield, among others. However, the engine performance and load carrying capacity of the jet could be not enhanced as part of the upgrades, with its airframe being the major limitation. • With a maximum speed of 2230 km/hr, the jet carries one 23mm twin-barrel cannon with four R-60 close combat missiles. Initially developed as an interceptor, the supersonic jet was eventually upgraded to perform as a multi-role combat aircraft, including ground attacks. • Despite its stellar performance in all wars and conflicts fought by India, the MiG-21 jets had earned a mixed reputation due to several crashes, although it can happen due to a multitude of reasons. Some estimates say that India lost over 400 MiG-21 jets, including its variants and trainer versions, since its induction, and the crashes killed over 100 pilots and some civilians. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍The MiG-21 is set to retire. It is about time 📍MiG-21s to retire by September: Journey of the fighter jet that won wars, but was always under accident cloud BCCI to come under sports governance Bill, says ministry; Board to wait, watch Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Mains Examination: General Studies II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. What's the ongoing story: The Government is all set to introduce the National Sports Governance Bill in Parliament on Wednesday, which will bring the Indian cricket board under its preview along with the 45 National Sports Federations (NSFs). Once the Bill becomes law, the BCCI will have to be recognised by a proposed National Sports Board, Sports Ministry sources said. Key Points to Ponder: • What is National Sports Governance Bill? • National Sports Governance Bill-Know its key features • Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)-About, role and nature of work • Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is what-is it a government body or is it a society? • BCCI is registered as a society in which state? • Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) comes under Article 12 of Indian constitution? • What Article 12 of Indian constitution says? • Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was formed before or after independence? • What are the controversies or issues with the governance of Cricket in India? Key Takeaways: • The move is significant because the BCCI is an autonomous sports body registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975. It is not among the 45 recognized NSFs, which includes major Olympic sports and also indigenous sports like Yogasana, Kho-Kho and Atya Patya. • The BCCI has in the past refused to come under the National Sports Federation category as it doesn't take funds from the Sports Ministry. In recent years, they have also pointed to how they have accepted the Lodha panel reforms on governance, mandated by the Supreme Court, which primarily stipulated that no office-bearer can have a tenure of more than six years at a stretch, with the maximum being nine. • Along with the National Governance Sports Bill, the newly proposed National Anti-doping Bill is also set to be introduced Wednesday. The anti-doping Bill comes at a time when India has topped the World Anti-Doping Agency's 2023 testing figures among countries which analysed 5,000 or more samples. Do You Know: • Under the National Sports Governance Bill, the National Sports Board will be set up to oversee recognition and suspension of NSFs. The members of the Board, including a chairperson, will be appointed by the central government. The Board will also be responsible for safeguarding of athletes rights and fair and timely elections in the NSFs. In cases where federations are suspended or lose recognition, the Bill authorises the Board to appoint ad-hoc administrative bodies. • The Bill also introduces a provision to increase the upper-age cap to 75 years, from the previous 70, for an official. This means individuals between 70 and 75 may serve a full term if allowed by relevant international statutes. If the BCCI comes under the NSF umbrella, its current president Roger Binny who turned 70 on July 19, may be able to continue in his post. As per BCCI's constitution, which was approved by the Supreme Court, no person can hold any post after turning 70. NSFs will also come under the Right to Information Act. • The Bill also proposes the formation of a separate entity called National Sports Tribunal (NST). This body will fast track and resolve conflicts between different stakeholders in the sporting ecosystem, including officials, athletes and coaches. The NST can be only challenged in the Supreme Court. • The tribunal, however, will not have jurisdiction to adjudicate disputes arising during Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games or events organised by international federations. It will also not have powers to decide on anti-doping cases for which the National Anti-Doping Agency's independent disciplinary and appeals panel exist. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍Sports ministry wants to revamp Association of Indian Universities after introduction of National Sports Governance Bill THE EDITORIAL PAGE CLEARING THE AIR ON COAL Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Mains Examination: General Studies III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment What's the ongoing story: R V Shahi Writes: Removal of restrictions on thermal power plants provides respite to consumers. Faced with an assertive China and unpredictable US, India and the UK will gain from deeper ties Key Points to Ponder: • What is flue gas desulphurization? • What are the SO2 norms for coal-based thermal power plants in India? • What was a major concern cited regarding flue gas desulphurization (FGDs) in India? • Know the rationale and possible trade-offs of mandating FGD systems in Indian coal-fired plants. • Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) emissions are primarily associated with which industries? • According to India's environmental regulations, SO₂ emission limits are set under which frameworks? • The revised framework for SO₂ emission norms in India, as defended by the government, primarily affects what? Key Takeaways: R V Shahi Writes: • In 2015, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified SO2 norms for coal-based thermal power plants. The establishment of flue gas desulphurisation (FGD system) for all 600-odd power plants in the country was made compulsory. • The schedule for the implementation of this system was challenging. Most professionals associated with the power sector, technical experts, researchers and policymakers raised valid concerns. • Since Indian coal has a low sulphur content, these experts argued that an FGD system was not necessary for most of these plants. The implementation of the system was, however, initiated in several plants. It was estimated that the capital expenditure on FGD in the old and the new plants would tax finance resources and lead to a tariff burden in the order of Rs 0.25 – 0.30 per KWhr. • Power generators were worried, but more concerned were the distribution companies and consumers of power, who would have to finally bear the burden of the additional tariff. Do You Know: R V Shahi Writes: • Niti Aayog initiated a comprehensive study, carried out by NEERI. The researchers studied all aspects of Indian coal and the extent of SO2 emissions vis-à-vis the norm. • The FGD system utilises limestone and water as its main input materials. The mining and transport of limestone to power plants leave a large carbon footprint. The atmospheric lifetime of CO2 is significantly longer than that of SO2. • The revised notification does not mandate a complete withdrawal of FGD. It is now based on sound scientific studies and analysis, which have enabled 600-odd power plants of the country to be classified into three categories — those which are close to very large cities, the ones in heavily polluted areas, and others. • An analysis of data collected reveals that about 78 per cent of the power plants do not require an FGD system. This means a saving of large capital expenditure, which can now be deployed for creating more power-generation capacities, primarily through the renewable route. • The notification has also allayed fears of tariff burden on power consumers. In India's long-term energy transition plan, renewables will play a big role. However, the transition will need to respect energy security considerations. Domestic coal will, therefore, continue to play a meaningful role in the coming few decades. The notification not only provides relief for consumers at large, but also provides clarity on how to plan for domestic coal-based power. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍Why govt has exempted 78% of coal-based thermal plants from installing anti-pollution devices ECONOMY Cabinet clears UK FTA ahead of PM's London visit; deal text likely this week Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance Mains Examination: General Studies II: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests. What's the ongoing story: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the UK this week, where he is expected to formally sign the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with his counterpart Keir Starmer, the Cabinet on Tuesday approved the deal. Key Points to Ponder: • India-UK FTA-know key features and objectives • India-UK FTA-What sectors stand to gain most? • How India UK FTA aligns with India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India'? • What are the implications of the FTA's automobile tariff quota (10%) on India's domestic auto sector? • Compare the India UK FTA with India's other bilateral deals. • What you understand by Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)? • Know the types of Trade Agreements. • Why the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) matter to India? • How India-UK Free Trade Agreement will benefit India and UK? • What are the key goods included in India-UK Free Trade Agreement? Key Takeaways: • While the deal was announced on May 6, the text of the agreement was due to be released as legal scrubbing was ongoing. The formal signing is expected on June 24 in the UK, where PM Modi will be accompanied by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. • The Cabinet decision, PTI reported, comes ahead of Modi's four-day visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives from Wednesday. However, the agreement will come into effect only after it is also passed by the British Parliament. • The signing of the deal comes after a period of significant political turmoil in the UK over the past three years, during which London saw three different Prime Ministers. The deal was finally announced after the Starmer-led Labour Party secured a landslide election victory. • For India, the UK deal is the first major trade agreement with a Western country since New Delhi decided to quit negotiations to enter the China-led Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in 2019. • While the agreement is expected to open the UK market for Indian textile and leather products, the deal text will reveal how India addressed the looming concern over the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which is expected to significantly impact India's metal exports to the UK. • The UK deal assumes significance as it marks the beginning of integration between the advanced services sector in the UK and that of India. • India has also opened its doors to high-end British cars and whisky, albeit in a phased manner. Do You Know: • India's exports to the UK rose by 12.6 per cent to $14.5 billion, while imports grew by 2.3 per cent to $8.6 billion in 2024–25. Bilateral trade between India and the UK increased to $21.34 billion in 2023–24 from $20.36 billion in 2022–23. • The India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) ensures comprehensive market access for goods across all sectors, covering all of India's export interests. India will gain from tariff elimination on approximately 99 per cent of tariff lines, covering nearly 100 per cent of trade value — offering opportunities to boost bilateral trade between India and the UK, the Commerce and Industry Ministry said. • The pact includes chapters on goods, services, innovation, government procurement, and intellectual property rights. The two countries have also concluded negotiations on the Double Contribution Convention Agreement, or social security pact. • It would help avoid double contributions to social security funds by Indian professionals working for a limited period in Britain. However, talks on the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) are still ongoing. • Government officials have pointed out that the India-UK trade deal is also significant as it is one of the most comprehensive free trade agreements that India has entered into so far and could serve as a template for future engagements, including the multiple trade deals currently under negotiation — such as the complex agreement with the European Union. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍C Raja Mohan writes: PM Modi in the UK: Let go of the bilateral baggage 📍Deal's done: India-UK Free Trade Previous year UPSC Main Question Covering similar theme: 📍How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India? (2018) China breaks ground on $170-bn dam near Arunachal: Why India is concerned Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Mains Examination: General Studies II: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests What's the ongoing story: China's official announcement of the start of construction on a massive hydropower project on the Yarlung Zangbo – just before the river bends into Arunachal Pradesh as the Brahmaputra – marks a pivotal moment for both India's strategic interests and China's economic goals. Key Points to Ponder: • Map Work-Yarlung Zangbo • What is Brahmaputra in China called? • What is special about the Three Gorges Dam? • What are the geostrategic implications of China building a mega-dam on the Brahmaputra's Great Bend vis-à-vis India's upstream water security? • What are India's concern on a massive hydropower project on the Yarlung Zangbo? • 'The dam is the biggest issue facing India, second only to the 'military threat', and could be used as a 'water bomb'-Analyse Key Takeaways: • With a planned investment of nearly $170 billion, it is set to be China's largest infrastructure project since the Three Gorges Dam, and a major stimulus for the domestic economy. • But across the border in Arunachal Pradesh, the project has raised alarm over potential downstream impacts, with fears of the Siang region being vulnerable to a 'water bomb'. India, in response, has proposed a large storage project to counter the Chinese dam – but progress has been slow. • The Chinese Premier Li Qiang on July 19 announced the launch of construction and the formation of a new entity – China Yajiang Group Co Ltd – to build and operate the hydropower project, according to state-run Xinhua. • The project will comprise five cascade hydropower stations spread across a 50-kilometre stretch of the river that drops 2,000 metres, offering vast hydropower potential. With a planned capacity of 60 GW, it will be roughly three times the size of the Three Gorges Dam. While cascade projects typically include storage to regulate flow between stations, the extent of planned storage has not been revealed. • Chinese markets responded positively to the announcement on Monday, with shares of major construction and equipment firms surging. Experts see the project as a major stimulus for the domestic economy. Do You Know: • While the storage capacity of the Chinese project is not known – a key factor in assessing China's ability to regulate water flow into India – concerns are mounting in Arunachal Pradesh. Earlier this month, Chief Minister Pema Khandu warned that the dam is the biggest issue facing India, second only to the 'military threat', and could be used as a 'water bomb'. • While around 30 per cent of the Brahmaputra's waters originate in China, the majority comes from rainfall within India's catchment areas. As a result, the Chinese dam's immediate impact is expected to be felt most in Arunachal Pradesh – particularly in the Siang region. • In addition to flooding concerns, the Chinese dam could also disrupt water flow to proposed downstream hydro projects. The Northeast holds nearly half of India's 133 GW hydropower potential, over 80 per cent of which remains untapped. Of the 60 GW estimated potential, about 50 GW lies in Arunachal Pradesh alone. • To counter China's upstream development, India has proposed the 11.2 GW Upper Siang Multipurpose Project – a massive storage-based dam in the Siang district. The project is expected to act as a strategic buffer to regulate water flow and protect downstream populations and infrastructure. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍The dangers of what we don't know: China's dam project and its effect on Brahmaputra needs more attention World Bank report: By 2030, Indian cities to create 70% of jobs but may lose $5 bn to floods Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Mains Examination: General Studies I: urbanization, their problems and their remedies. What's the ongoing story: Indian cities will need some autonomy to invest effectively in climate change adaptation and mitigation, according to Auguste Tano Kouame, the World Bank's Country Director for India. Key Points to Ponder: • What exactly the report 'Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India' says? • 'The dual role of Indian cities as engines of job growth and hotbeds of climate vulnerabilities'-comment • What are the mechanisms through which Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) should be empowered to effectively manage climate infrastructure and flood risks? • How urban population growth can be aligned with sustainable planning to mitigate urban heat island and flooding? • What are the implications of increasing annual flood losses as per the report? Key Takeaways: • Cities with more decision-making power have performed better than average, he said on Tuesday at the launch of a report on building urban climate resilience. • The report, prepared by the World Bank in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, estimates Indian cities will require $2.4 trillion by 2050 to build climate-resilient infrastructure and services. • The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 gave constitutional status to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to strengthen local self-governance. However, official audits as recently as 2022 have found that several states have yet to fully implement its provisions. • While the World Bank does not have an official view on this, Kouame said 'some version' of the 74th Amendment could be considered. 'It doesn't have to be implemented in the same fashion across all states. It depends on local conditions and several other factors,' he added. Do You Know: • The report titled Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India projects that the country's urban population will nearly double to 951 million by 2050, and that by 2030, cities will account for 70 per cent of all new employment generated. In addition to the rapid pace of urbanisation, Indian cities will face two major shocks in a business-as-usual scenario — flooding and extreme heat — according to Asmita Tiwari, who co-authored the report with Natsuko Kikutake. • According to the report, annual pluvial flood-related losses can amount to $5 billion by 2030 and $30 billion by 2070 if cities don't invest in adaptation. A conservative estimate for supporting 60 per cent of high-risk cities with flood resilience measures over the next 15 years is $150 billion, it added. • Heat-related deaths can double to over 3 lakh each year by 2050 due to global warming and the urban heat island phenomenon, the report said. Measures like shifting working hours to early morning and late afternoon, urban greening, early warning systems, and cool roofs can save over 1.3 lakh lives, it added. • The report makes several recommendations for national- and state-level interventions, including boosting private sector engagement, creating a financing roadmap, and setting standards to build municipal capacities. For cities, it calls for risk evaluation and the mobilisation of capital — including private investment — to support mitigation and adaptation efforts. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍World Bank claims a drastic reduction in inequality in India. There is more to the story EXPLAINED What are biostimulants, now under Agri Ministry's scrutiny? Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Economic and Social Development Mains Examination: General Studies III: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; What's the ongoing story: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan last week wrote to Chief Ministers of all states to immediately stop the 'forced tagging' of nano-fertilisers or biostimulants along with conventional fertilisers. Key Points to Ponder: • What are biostimulants? • How big is India's biostimulant market? • Why did the government start regulating biostimulants? • What does the FCO say about biostimulants? • What is the latest government action on biostimulants? Key Takeaways: • Chouhan highlighted complaints that retailers are not selling subsidised fertilisers like urea and diammonium phosphate (DAP) to farmers unless they purchase biostimulants. • He also said that many farmers had recently raised complaints about the inefficacy of biostimulants. 'It is necessary to review biostimulants thoroughly to see how much benefit the farmers are getting from it; if not, then permission to sell it cannot be given,' he said. • Market research firm Fortune Business Insights noted, 'The India biostimulants market size was valued at USD 355.53 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 410.78 million in 2025 to USD 1,135.96 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.64% during the forecast period.' • Chouhan said that around 30,000 biostimulant products had been sold unchecked for several years, and even in the last four years, around 8,000 products remained in circulation. 'After I enforced stricter checks, the number has now come down to approximately 650,' he said in a statement on July 15. Do You Know: • The substances stimulate physiological processes in plants and help enhance the yield from a harvest. Plant-derived waste materials and seaweed extracts are at times used in their production. • Officially, the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985, which regulates the manufacturing and sale of biostimulants, defines it as 'a substance or microorganism or a combination of both whose primary function when applied to plants, seeds or rhizosphere is to stimulate physiological processes in plants and to enhance its nutrient uptake, growth, yield, nutrition efficiency, crop quality and tolerance to stress… but does not include pesticides or plant growth regulators which are regulated under the Insecticide Act, 1968.' • As biostimulants did not fall under the existing fertiliser or pesticide categories, they were sold in the open market without government approval for a long time. • In India, fertilisers and pesticides are governed by the 1985 Fertiliser Control Order and the Insecticides Act of 1968, respectively. The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare issues the Fertiliser Control Order (FCO) under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and makes changes to it from time to time. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍Govt not to allow sale of biostimulants without scientific approval: Shivraj Singh Chouhan Tracking India's climate goals Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Mains Examination: General Studies III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. What's the ongoing story: India has said that non-fossil fuel sources now account for more than 50 per cent of its installed electricity generation capacity. This means one of the main promises that the country had made, as part of its international climate commitments under the 2015 Paris Agreement, has been achieved five years ahead of schedule. Key Points to Ponder: • India achieving a 50.1% share of non-fossil fuel capacity ahead of its 2030 target-Why it is significant? • What are the challenges posed by renewable energy intermittency? • What role can nuclear energy and emerging storage technologies play in meeting India's 500 GW non-fossil capacity goal by 2030? • India's net-zero by 2070 pledge-what domestic reforms and international support mechanisms are required? • Why electricity accounts for under 22% of India's total energy consumption? • How India's climate targets reflect a shift from mitigation to adaptation priorities, in view of its development needs? Key Takeaways: • Government data released last week showed that installed electricity capacity had reached 484.82 GW at the end of June, of which 242.78 GW was being contributed by sources such as large hydropower, nuclear, and renewable energies like wind and solar. • Attainment of 50 per cent share of non-fossil sources in the installed electricity capacity was one of the three climate targets India had set for itself for 2030. The other two promises were: reducing its emissions intensity, or emissions per unit of gross domestic product (GDP), by at least 45 per cent from 2005 levels; and creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent from forest and tree cover. • The target of creating an additional carbon sink is likely to be achieved this year, if not already achieved, though official data on that are yet to be released. There is good progress on the third target as well. Do You Know: • The 50 per cent share of non-fossil sources in installed electricity capacity has been achieved through rapid growth in renewable energy in the last couple of years, particularly in solar energy. For instance, in 2024, almost 30 GW of renewable energy was installed, the maximum for any year. Of this, solar energy stood at nearly 24 GW. • India aims to install 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based electricity capacity by 2030. This is also a stated climate objective for India, though not an official target it has committed itself to. However, for it to materialise, significant contributions need to come from nuclear power as well. • Many of the 10 nuclear reactors that India is currently building are expected to become operational during this timeframe, doubling the current capacity to about 17 GW by 2030. The Bharat Small Modular Reactors that India is developing are unlikely to fructify during this time. • The 50 per cent share of non-fossil fuels in installed capacity does not mean half of India's electricity is clean. Electricity generation from renewable sources is intermittent and dependent on timing, seasonality, and climate. As such, the share of non-fossil fuels in electricity generation is lower than its share in installed capacity. • The latest data on emissions intensity are from 2020. By that time, India had already reduced it by 36 per cent from 2005 levels. There are no good estimates of emission intensity reductions after that, but considering India's progress so far, the 45 per cent reduction goal by 2030 is likely to be achieved comfortably. • The international climate architecture, governed by the UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement, allows countries to set their own climate targets. Not surprisingly, most countries have set modest targets for themselves. But even then, many developed countries have struggled to deliver on their promises, not just on emission reductions but also on climate finance. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍India's 'green' power capacity overtakes thermal: Why it matters, the challenges posed, and what's next For any queries and feedback, contact Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. Priya Kumari Shukla is a Senior Copy Editor in the Indian Express (digital). She contributes to the UPSC Section of Indian Express (digital) and started niche initiatives such as UPSC Key, UPSC Ethics Simplified, and The 360° UPSC Debate. The UPSC Key aims to assist students and aspirants in their preparation for the Civil Services and other competitive examinations. It provides valuable guidance on effective strategies for reading and comprehending newspaper content. The 360° UPSC Debate tackles a topic from all perspectives after sorting through various publications. The chosen framework for the discussion is structured in a manner that encompasses both the arguments in favour and against the topic, ensuring comprehensive coverage of many perspectives. Prior to her involvement with the Indian Express, she had affiliations with a non-governmental organisation (NGO) as well as several coaching and edutech enterprises. In her prior professional experience, she was responsible for creating and refining material in various domains, including article composition and voiceover video production. She has written in-house books on many subjects, including modern India, ancient Indian history, internal security, international relations, and the Indian economy. She has more than eight years of expertise in the field of content writing. Priya holds a Master's degree in Electronic Science from the University of Pune as well as an Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management (EPPPM) from the esteemed Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, widely recognised as one of the most prestigious business schools in India. She is also an alumni of Jamia Milia Islamia University Residential Coaching Academy (RCA). Priya has made diligent efforts to engage in research endeavours, acquiring the necessary skills to effectively examine and synthesise facts and empirical evidence prior to presenting their perspective. Priya demonstrates a strong passion for reading, particularly in the genres of classical Hindi, English, Maithili, and Marathi novels and novellas. Additionally, she possessed the distinction of being a cricket player at the national level. Qualification, Degrees / other achievements: Master's degree in Electronic Science from University of Pune and Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management (EPPPM) from Indian Institute of Management Calcutta ... Read More
Time of India
23 minutes ago
- Time of India
Beaten, kicked, humiliated: Deported Venezuelans allege abuse in El Salvador prison; return home after US swap
Migrants deported by US arrive in Venezuela (AP photo) Venezuelan migrants who had been detained for months in El Salvador's notorious CECOT prison returned to their homes this week, describing their time behind bars as abusive. Several men and their family members reported the stories of being beaten, kicked, and humiliated while locked up. Some showed visible bruises, news agency Associated Press reported. Their release came after a prisoner exchange deal involving the US, El Salvador, and Venezuela. Ten American citizens, including a former Navy SEAL, were released by Venezuela. In return, over 200 Venezuelan men deported by US under an old wartime law were handed back to the Maduro government after spending four months in El Salvador. These migrants were sent to El Salvador earlier this year after the Trump administration used the Alien Enemies Act to justify their removal, accusing them of being linked to Venezuela's Tren de Aragua gang. No formal charges were made public. Migrants and their families say that tattoos and appearances were wrongly used as evidence of gang affiliation. Venezuela's state TV aired video testimonies of released migrants alleging torture, sexual abuse, and severe beatings. Interior minister Diosdado Cabello said only a handful of the deported men faced pending legal cases. The rest, he said, would be allowed to return home after medical checks and background reviews. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Swelling and internal bleeding in the brain, help this baby Donate For Health Donate Now Undo Venezuelan attorney general Tarek William Saab has also announced an investigation into the allegations against Salvadoran officials. In CECOT, prisoners cannot receive visitors, and hearings happen only via Zoom. Cell signal is blocked within a mile-and-a-half radius surrounding the prison to keep any information from getting out, to contain the power of gangs, which authorities said used to control 85% of the country's territory.
