Current Affairs 08 February 2025

Content:

1. Growth Push: RBI Cuts Rate by 0.25%
2. Surge of Dead Sea Turtles in the Sand
3. Nine Submarines, 65 Ships Taking Part in TROPEX Exercise
4. DR Congo Conflict Advances; UN Says Risk of Regional Escalation Has Never Been Higher
5. Cabinet Nod to Rejig Skilling Initiatives with a Combined Scheme
6. Centre Holds Consultation with States on Setting Up Biomanufacturing Facilities

 Growth Push: RBI Cuts Rate by 0.25%

Context : Repo Rate Cut Decision:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cut the repo rate by 25 basis points (bps), lowering it to 6.25%.
  • This is the first rate cut in 57 months, signaling a shift in the RBI’s stance after a prolonged period of rate hikes since 2022.
  • The decision comes after a long pause in rate cuts, last implemented in May 2020 at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Relevance : GS 3 (Indian Economy )

• Economic Context:
  • The repo rate reduction aims to support India’s growth amidst fading economic momentum and inflationary concerns.
  • Inflation is expected to ease to 4.4% this quarter and further to 4.2% in the 2025-26 fiscal year, according to the RBI’s forecast.
  • This policy shift is strategically aligned with the government’s Union Budget initiatives, which introduced ₹1 lakh crore in income tax breaks to boost urban demand and stimulate consumption.

• Impact on Loans:
  • A reduced repo rate typically translates into lower borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, making loans cheaper.
  • Consumers could benefit from lower interest rates on home loans, car loans, and personal loans, potentially increasing demand for such financial products.
  • This could further stimulate domestic demand in the economy, especially in consumer-driven sectors like real estate and automobiles.

• Monetary Policy Stance:
  • Despite the rate cut, the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has maintained a neutral monetary policy stance.
  • The MPC is wary of global economic uncertainties and inflationary pressures, including upside risks to inflation.
  • The RBI’s focus remains on achieving a sustainable alignment of inflation with its target while ensuring that growth is supported.

• Global and Domestic Risk Factors:
  • The RBI has cited global uncertainties as a key factor influencing its cautious stance on further rate cuts.
  • These global factors include the ongoing geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in international commodity prices, which can have an impact on India’s inflation trajectory.

• Long-Term Implications:
  • This rate cut could provide a boost to economic activity, particularly in urban sectors where consumer spending is crucial.
  • If inflation continues to fall within the target range, it could open the door for further cuts in the future, providing continued stimulus for economic growth.
  • However, any future cuts will depend on evolving global and domestic economic conditions, as well as inflationary trends.

In conclusion, this rate cut marks a significant shift in RBI’s approach to monetary policy, reflecting a balancing act between controlling inflation and supporting growth in a challenging global and domestic environment.

A surge of dead sea turtles in the sand

Context : Unusual Surge in Turtle Deaths:

• Since the beginning of January 2025, a concerning increase in the number of dead Olive Ridley sea turtles has been observed in Chennai and Chengalpattu districts. The death count is three times higher than usual for this time of the year, with conservationists counting 1,200 dead turtles (compared to the typical 350).

Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology)

Cultural and Ecological Significance:

• Olive Ridley turtles hold cultural significance for local fishermen, who view them as a symbol of a healthy ecosystem. The turtles also play a crucial ecological role by maintaining healthy seagrass levels, supporting fish populations, and controlling jellyfish numbers.
• The community refers to these turtles as “guests” and “god,” emphasizing their cultural importance.

Primary Causes of Death:

• Bottom Trawling: A significant cause of turtle deaths is bottom trawling, where fishing boats encroach into restricted zones meant for artisanal fishermen. This causes entanglement of turtles in nets.
• Gill Nets: The widespread use of gill nets further increases the risk of turtle entanglement.
• Plastic Pollution: Increasing levels of plastic waste in the oceans also threaten the turtles’ survival.
• Nesting Site Destruction: The rise in hard structures like groynes along beaches has resulted in the destruction of turtle nesting habitats, forcing turtles to leave without nesting.

Impacts on Turtle Population:

• Along the 34-km stretch of coastline, dead turtles were found with eggs in their bodies, indicating that many female turtles intended to nest but were killed before they could do so. Conservationists also reported a significant reduction in the number of nests this season (only two found compared to the usual 30).

Government and Conservation Efforts:

• The Tamil Nadu government has formed a task force to address the issue, planning to strengthen fishing regulations, enforce the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), and reduce boat engine horsepower to mitigate turtle deaths.
• The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has been working with various authorities to increase joint patrols and monitor trawler violations. However, there are concerns from fishermen about TEDs affecting their catch, leading to tensions between conservation goals and local livelihoods.

Wider Regional Impact:

• The turtle deaths are not confined to Tamil Nadu. Andhra Pradesh also reported an increased number of turtle deaths (2,032 by January 26). The issue may be compounded by an unusually rough monsoon season and challenging oceanic conditions.

Collaboration for Conservation:

• Conservationists call for a more unified approach involving fishermen, local communities, the Fisheries Department, and conservation organizations. Technology, such as apps to track turtle activity, could improve monitoring and compliance with regulations.
• A focus on turtle conservation needs to balance the ecological needs with the livelihoods of local fishermen, who face economic pressures due to declining fish resources.

Call to Action:

• The surge in turtle deaths serves as a stark reminder of the fragile balance between human activities and the environment. It highlights the need for effective policy implementation, awareness, and collaboration to protect these vulnerable species and the ecosystems that depend on them.

Nine submarines, 65 ships taking part in TROPEX exercise

Context:

• TROPEX-25 is a biennial, large-scale military exercise held in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• The exercise involves the participation of around 65 Indian Navy ships, 9 submarines, and 80+ aircraft.
• This exercise serves as a capstone event for the Indian Navy, focusing on refining maritime operational strategies and validating their core warfighting capabilities.

Relevance : GS 2(International Relations)

Strategic Objective:

• The primary aim of TROPEX-25 is to validate and refine the Indian Navy’s Concept of Operations in complex, real-world maritime scenarios.
• The exercise is designed to test the Navy’s response to a wide range of threats, including:
  • Conventional (traditional military threats),
  • Asymmetric (non-traditional or irregular threats),
  • Hybrid threats (a blend of conventional and unconventional tactics).

Key Participants:

• In addition to the Indian Navy’s operational units, the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard assets are also involved.
• The multi-service participation ensures coordination among various arms of the military and enhances joint operational readiness.

Training Focus:

• TROPEX-25 is aimed at ensuring a synchronised and integrated response from all services to protect and secure India’s maritime interests.
• It is an opportunity to test:
  • Maritime security strategies,
  • Fleet management under simulated combat scenarios,
  • Interoperability between different forces (Navy, Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard).

Operational Scenarios:

• The exercise includes complex maritime operational scenarios designed to challenge the participating units and simulate a range of threats.
• It provides a platform for refining combat readiness and strategic response to maintain national security in a contested maritime environment.

Geopolitical Implications:

• The exercise underscores India’s growing commitment to securing the Indo-Pacific region amid rising global maritime tensions.
• The Indian Ocean Region is a critical area for global trade and energy routes, making maritime security a central concern for India’s national interests.
• TROPEX-25 is a display of India’s maritime power and its capability to engage in joint operations with allied nations in the region.

Importance for National Security:

• The exercise plays a crucial role in upgrading the Navy’s warfighting skills and ensuring that the country’s naval forces are prepared to address evolving security challenges, such as:
  • Hybrid warfare,
  • Cyber threats in naval operations,
  • Terrorism and piracy in the Indian Ocean.

Conclusion:

• The biennial TROPEX exercise remains a vital mechanism for testing India’s maritime defense infrastructure and ensuring readiness to respond to any challenges

DR Congo conflict advances; UN says risk of regional escalation has never been higher

Conflict Escalation:

• The Rwanda-backed M23 armed group, alongside Rwandan troops, has seized control of the city of Goma, a major city in eastern DR Congo.
• M23 forces are now advancing towards South Kivu province, exacerbating the crisis in the region.
• This marks a significant escalation in the decades-long instability in eastern DR Congo, a region rich in minerals but plagued by armed group activity.

Relevance : GS 2(International Relations)

Humanitarian Impact:

• Thousands of lives have been lost, and a large number of people have been displaced as a result of the conflict.
• The region is witnessing the collapse of local governance, as Congolese forces and their allies are being routed by the M23 and Rwandan forces.
• Humanitarian conditions are worsening, with thousands fleeing their homes, particularly from the threatened town of Kavumu, which holds strategic importance.

Strategic Importance of Kavumu:

• Kavumu is crucial for the logistical supply of Congolese troops, housing an important airport.
• M23’s advance toward Kavumu could pave the way for further incursions into South Kivu’s capital, Bukavu, located near the Rwandan border.
• The situation has led to a tense atmosphere, with residents fleeing and shops being closed or barricaded in fear of looting.

Regional Tensions and Chaos:

• The risk of conflict spilling over into neighboring countries is at an all-time high, especially with Rwanda and DR Congo having a history of tensions.
• The situation at the Rwandan border is chaotic, with a surge of people attempting to cross into Rwanda, further destabilizing the region.
• This could trigger broader regional instability if not addressed by diplomatic intervention.

UN and International Concern:

• The United Nations has raised alarms over the increasing risk of regional escalation. The UN stresses that the security situation has never been more precarious in terms of potential cross-border conflicts.
• International actors are deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis and the destabilizing effects this conflict may have on neighboring countries in the Great Lakes region.

Diplomatic Efforts:

• Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi are scheduled to meet at a summit in Tanzania to discuss the ongoing crisis and seek a resolution.
• The summit could be pivotal in determining the trajectory of the conflict, with regional powers attempting to broker peace to prevent further violence and instability.
• However, the deep-rooted issues between Rwanda and DR Congo complicate diplomatic negotiations.

Possible Scenarios:

• If Kavumu falls, Bukavu could become the next target, increasing fears of a direct conflict between Rwanda and DR Congo.
• A breakdown of talks between Rwanda and DR Congo could lead to prolonged instability, with more regional states getting involved.
• On the other hand, successful diplomatic intervention could reduce the likelihood of escalation and pave the way for a ceasefire and peace talks.

Cabinet nod to rejig skilling initiatives with a combined scheme

Cabinet Approval:

• The Union Cabinet has approved the restructuring of skill development initiatives with a combined scheme called the Skill India Programme.
• The total outlay for this programme is ₹8,800 crore, covering a three-year period until 2025-26.

Relevance : GS 2(Governance)

Integration of Existing Schemes:

• Three existing schemes will now be integrated into the Skill India Programme:
  • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0): Focuses on structured skill development.
  • Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS): Provides on-the-job training opportunities.
  • Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme: Emphasizes community-based learning.

Objective:

• The main goal is to ensure high-quality vocational education for a wide range of individuals, particularly targeting urban and rural populations and marginalized communities.
• The new scheme aims to provide structured skill development, on-the-job training, and community-based learning.
• The focus is on increasing accessibility and improving the quality of skills training across diverse sections of society.

Target Beneficiaries:

• 2.27 crore beneficiaries have already gained from the three flagship schemes of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
• The programme will be aimed at both urban and rural areas, addressing the needs of disadvantaged and marginalized communities.

Data Alignment and Policy Integration:

• The programme will contribute directly to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data, which helps track and align workforce development policies with the latest economic and industrial trends.

Key Goals:

• The Skill India Programme aims to bridge the skill gap in India by offering access to relevant training opportunities.
• It is designed to improve employment prospects by providing individuals with skills that are in demand across industries.

Significance:

• This restructuring and integration could enhance efficiency, coordination, and reach by combining three schemes with complementary objectives under a unified umbrella.
• It is expected to strengthen the Skilling ecosystem and contribute towards the goal of making India a global skill hub.

Centre holds consultation with States on setting up biomanufacturing facilities

Background of the BioE3 Policy:

• The consultation followed the approval of the Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment (BioE3) policy by the Union Cabinet in August 2024.
• The BioE3 policy focuses on leveraging biotechnology to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and address environmental challenges.

Biomanufacturing Overview:

• Definition: Biomanufacturing involves the industrial production of bio-based chemicals, biopolymers, enzymes, smart proteins, functional foods, biotherapeutics, and solutions for climate-resilient agriculture.
• It emphasizes high-value products derived from biological processes rather than traditional chemical-based manufacturing.

Role of the Consultation:

• The consultation aimed to discuss the establishment of biomanufacturing facilities across Indian states to enhance biotechnology production capabilities.
• The Department of Biotechnology, under the leadership of Rajesh Gokhale, facilitated the consultation.

Key Points from the Consultation:

State Engagement and Policy Gaps:

• Several states do not have dedicated biotechnology manufacturing policies.
  • For states to foster biotech industries, a strong partnership with the Centre is crucial for policy development and infrastructure support.

Strategic Measures for Biotech Growth:

• Establishing State-centric BioE3 cells to align state-level activities with the national biotech agenda.
  • Developing State-centric BioE3 action plans to define specific goals and initiatives tailored to regional needs.
  • Setting up Bio-AI hubs, foundries, and manufacturing hubs for biotech research, development, and industrial scaling.

Challenges Highlighted by States:

• Despite local efforts, states expressed the need for significant central support in terms of funding and guidance.
  • The states emphasized the difficulty of scaling up biotechnology manufacturing without clear national direction and resources.

Industry Growth Potential:

• Union Science Minister Jitendra Singh underscored the long-term potential of biotechnology as a major sector for investment and profit.
  • States that take proactive steps to establish a biotech infrastructure will have a competitive advantage in the future.

Implications for the Future:

• Economic Benefits: A thriving biomanufacturing industry could significantly contribute to India’s economy by fostering innovation and creating high-quality employment.
• Environmental Impact: The focus on biomanufacturing products, such as climate-resilient agricultural solutions, highlights the role of biotechnology in addressing environmental challenges.
• State-Centre Collaboration: The consultation exemplifies the growing importance of state and central government collaboration in implementing successful biotechnology policies and scaling up production.