11 January 2025: The Hindu Analysis (Daily Current Affairs)

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1. 2024 was the first year to breach global warming limit, show data

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 5)

Topic: GS3 – Environment

Context

• In 2024, global temperatures rose beyond 1. 5°C above pre-industrial levels, indicating a climate crisis that necessitates urgent emissions reductions and financial support for vulnerable nations.

Humanity’s Shift Towards Climate Crisis

• As reported by the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), 2024 was the first year in which the global mean temperature surpassed the 1. 5°C mark above pre-industrial levels. This development represents a significant milestone in global warming, aligning with concerns voiced at international climate conferences aimed at limiting warming to below 2°C, with an ideal target of remaining under 1. 5°C.

Annual Climate Conference Goals

• The central aim of annual climate conferences is to forge global agreements to diminish carbon emissions and curb temperature increases. The overarching objective is to prevent global temperatures from exceeding 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with an ideal goal of limiting the rise to below 1. 5°C to alleviate the most severe climate repercussions.

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Temperature Thresholds and Significance of 2024

• Surpassing the 1. 5°C threshold in a single year does not indicate an immediate climate crisis; however, experts caution that ongoing warming over a decade or more could lead to irreversible changes. The year 2024 is considered a pivotal moment, as rising carbon emissions may result in global temperatures exceeding the 2°C threshold by 2050, leading to catastrophic outcomes.

Record-breaking global Temperatures in 2024

• 2024 has been recorded as the warmest year on record, with the global average temperature reaching 15. 1°C, an increase of 0. 72°C above the 1991–2020 average and 1. 6°C above pre-industrial levels (1850–1900). The past decade (2015–2024) has seen each year rank among the ten warmest on record, indicating a concerning trend. In 2024, global temperatures remained consistently above 2. 5°C for 11 months, emphasizing a troubling trajectory.

Sea Surface Temperature and El Niño

• The average sea surface temperature (SST) in 2024 hit a record high of 20. 87°C, which is 0. 51°C above the 1991–2020 average. The period from January to June 2024 recorded unprecedented SST levels, while July to December followed closely as the second warmest on record, primarily due to the ongoing El Niño event that began in June 2023.

Implications of Record Temperatures

• The achievement of temperatures exceeding 1. 5°C in 2024 indicates that the world is alarmingly close to irreversible climate impacts. Although one year above this threshold is not definitive, it emphasizes the urgent need for rapid and effective emissions reductions to avert further damage to ecosystems and human populations.

Concerns Over Financial Support and Climate Disasters

• The increasing temperatures pose significant challenges for developing economies, which are already facing frequent climate disasters. The inability of climate negotiations in Baku, Azerbaijan, to secure a financial package for carbon emission mitigation exacerbates concerns, as developing countries now confront heightened financial pressure in addressing climate impacts. This failure delays progress on carbon markets, jeopardizing efforts for sustainable development in these vulnerable regions.

PYQ: Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases that cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (250 Words /15 marks)(UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2022)

Practice Question: Evaluate the implications of surpassing the 1.5°C global temperature threshold in 2024 and its impact on global climate goals and vulnerable economies. (250 Words /15 marks)

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2. NATO members reluctant to endorse Trump’s defense spending proposal

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations

Context

• Donald Trump has proposed a substantial increase in NATO member states' defense spending to 5% of GDP, igniting discussions regarding the feasibility of such a proposal amid security concerns, particularly regarding Russia’s actions. Proposal for NATO Defence Spending Increase:

Proposal for NATO Defence Spending Increase:

Trump’s Proposal:

• U. S. President-elect Donald Trump has suggested that NATO countries should elevate their defense spending to 5% of their GDP. This represents a significant rise from the current target of 2%, which no NATO member, including the United States, currently achieves.

Political and Economic Challenges:

• NATO officials acknowledged the necessity for enhanced defense spending but conveyed that the 5% target would be politically and economically impractical for the majority of members.
• Achieving this target would necessitate hundreds of billions of additional funding, which is perceived as unrealistic for many nations.

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Expected Outcome:

• A new defense spending target is anticipated to be established at the NATO summit in The Hague in June.
• The new target is expected to be approximately 3% of GDP.
• Even this figure poses challenges for several NATO members, with some struggling to fulfill the existing 2% target.

Rationale for Increased Spending:

• The drive for elevated defense spending is a reaction to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and wider security concerns.
• There is also a growing inclination to diminish reliance on the United States for NATO’s defense capabilities.

European Concerns:

• Proposals include collective EU borrowing to finance military capabilities, with the aim of independently bolstering Europe’s defense capacity. While European countries agree on the need for increased defense spending, they are also advocating for more self-reliance in defense matters.

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3. Unprecedented Winter Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 14)

Topic: GS1 – Geography

Context

• The article discusses the unprecedented winter wildfires in Los Angeles.

Analysis of the news:

What Are Wildfires?

• Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that rapidly spread across forests, grasslands, or urban areas, fueled by dry vegetation and wind. While natural occurrences within ecosystems, human activities and climate change have increased their frequency and severity.

The Escalating Wildfire Crisis in Los Angeles

• The wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles have resulted in significant destruction, including the loss of 10 lives, the evacuation of over 130,000 individuals, and damage to numerous properties, including homes of celebrities. These fires have caused unusual disruptions during the winter, including delays in events such as the Oscars nominations announcement.

Unusual Weather Patterns: From Wet to Dry

• Los Angeles has faced extreme weather variations in recent years. The unusually wet winters of 2022 and 2023 fostered substantial vegetation growth. This year's remarkably dry winter has rendered this vegetation highly combustible. With minimal rainfall since October, the region has experienced its driest start to the water year since 1944, heightening the wildfire risk.

Impact of Santa Ana Winds

• This year, the Santa Ana winds, a seasonal phenomenon, are unusually strong. Originating from high-pressure systems in the Great Basin, these winds blow westward, descending the Sierra Nevada and Santa Ana mountains. As they lose humidity, gain speed, and heat up, they rapidly fuel and spread fires across Southern California, worsening the crisis.

Role of Climate Change

• Climate change has prolonged California’s wildfire season. Rising global temperatures have resulted in warmer springs and summers, earlier snow melts, and extended dry seasons. These conditions increase moisture stress on vegetation, creating an ideal environment for wildfires. Studies indicate that the state's wildfire season is not only longer but also more intense compared to previous decades.

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Conclusion: 

• The wildfires in Los Angeles stem from a combination of factors, including extreme weather variations, strong seasonal winds, and climate change. Addressing this crisis necessitates urgent actions to mitigate climate change, enhance disaster preparedness, and manage vegetation growth to lower wildfire risks.

Measures to Mitigate Wildfires

• Improved Fire Management: Employ advanced firefighting tools such as drones, fire-retardant chemicals, and satellite monitoring for early detection and response.
• Vegetation Control: Remove dry vegetation, conduct controlled burns, and maintain firebreaks to limit wildfire spread.
• Climate Adaptation: Implement long-term policies addressing climate change, including reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy.
• Public Awareness: Educate communities on fire prevention, evacuation protocols, and the risks associated with activities like campfires during dry seasons.
• Stronger Regulations: Enforce stricter building codes, land use policies, and limitations on human activities in fire-prone areas to minimize ignition risks.

Practice Question: The escalating intensity and frequency of wildfires, as demonstrated in Los Angeles, underscore the increasing impact of climate change and extreme weather patterns. Discuss the causes and consequences of such wildfires and propose measures to mitigate their effects on human lives and the environment. (250 Words /15 marks)

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 Prelims Facts

1. Trump sentenced in hush money case

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 1)

Context

• Former U. S. President Donald Trump was found guilty of concealing hush money payments but received no punishment, making him the first convicted President-elect.

Hush Money Case:

• Donald Trump was convicted in May 2024 for concealing hush money payments to an adult film actress.
• These payments were made to prevent the actress from discussing their alleged affair prior to the 2016 election.
• He was sentenced to an unconditional discharge, signifying guilt without any jail time or fine.
• This marked Trump as the first U. S. President-elect to be convicted of a felony.
• The judge noted that this sentence was intended to avoid disrupting Trump’s presidential responsibilities.
• Trump attended the sentencing virtually, labeling the case a “witch hunt” aimed at damaging his reputation.
• Prosecutors contended that Trump’s actions represented a calculated effort to mislead and undermine confidence in the justice system.

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2. President Murmu's invite for this year’s Republic Day reception set to honor crafts from South

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 1)

Context

• To celebrate 75 years of India's Republic, President Droupadi Murmu designed a special invitation box highlighting crafts from five southern states, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage.

Kalamkari Paintings

• Kalamkari is a traditional textile art characterized by hand-painting or block-printing. The paintings often feature mythological themes and nature-inspired motifs, created by Nimmalakunta artisans known for their intricate work. These pieces utilize natural dyes and involve a meticulous, detailed process.

Ikat-Pochampalli Cover

• Ikat is a resist-dyeing technique that produces unique fabric patterns. Pochampalli is a prestigious weaving tradition from Telangana, known for its vibrant geometric designs. The durable and reusable fabric promotes sustainability while adding elegance and cultural significance to the box.

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Ganjifa Art Magnet

• Ganjifa art, originating from Mysore, is inspired by traditional playing cards and features intricate, hand-painted designs and motifs. This art form vividly represents cultural and mythological themes and showcases the artistic heritage of Karnataka.

Kanjeevaram Silk Pouch

• Kanjeevaram silk, a traditional handwoven material from Tamil Nadu, is famed for its vibrant colors and rich textures. It is crafted using pure mulberry silk and gold zari threads, exemplifying Tamil Nadu's exceptional craftsmanship.

Etikopakka Dolls

• Etikopakka dolls are traditional wooden toys from Andhra Pradesh, crafted from softwood and lacquer derived from natural dyes. These eco-friendly toys are safe for children, with each doll handcrafted meticulously, reflecting Andhra Pradesh’s artisan heritage.

Screwpine Leaf Bookmark

• The bookmark symbolizes Kerala's rich tradition of natural fiber weaving, crafted from woven screwpine leaves. This process involves drying, slicing, and weaving the leaves into intricate patterns, resulting in durable and sustainable products by skilled artisans.

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3. Tigers on the Move: Dispersal Patterns Highlight Challenges and Opportunities for Conservation

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 14)

Context

• The article examines the rising occurrences of tiger dispersals throughout India.

Analysis of the news:

Why Tigers Disperse: Natural Behavior and Survival Needs

• Territory and Mating: Male tigers necessitate exclusive territories that overlap with female ranges, resulting in dispersal when forest capacity is reached or during confrontations with dominant males.
• Female Behavior: While generally less likely to stray, tigresses may disperse to shield cubs from threats or to establish new territories.
• Relocation Instinct: Tigers relocated for population management frequently attempt to return to their original habitats, as evidenced by cases in Madhya Pradesh and Odisha.

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Documented Long-Distance Movements

Tiger dispersals have been recorded across the country:

• Examples: A male tiger from Maharashtra traveled 2,000 km across four states, while a tigress moved 340 km to Uttar Pradesh.
• Patterns: Males are more prone to disperse, covering longer distances (up to 650 km), whereas females typically explore shorter ranges.

Challenges During Dispersal

• Navigating Non-Forest Environments: Tigers traverse fragmented habitats, maneuvering around highways, railways, and human settlements while remaining concealed.
• Human-Wildlife Conflict: Movement through populated regions heightens the chance of conflict, jeopardizing both tigers and local communities.
• Mortality Risks: Dispersal can lead to death due to exhaustion, starvation, or accidents.

Ecological Importance of Dispersal

• Gene Flow: Successful dispersals introduce genetic diversity, reinforcing isolated populations.
• Habitat Identification: Dispersal routes underscore the potential for establishing protected corridors and rehabilitating degraded landscapes.

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