Top News Highlights- 31 July 2024

India’s Digital Economy and Digital Public Infrastructure

• Growth and Projections: India’s digital economy contributes a tenth of the GDP, poised to constitute a fifth by 2026.
• Key Factors: Growth driven by internet penetration, low data costs, and a robust startup ecosystem.
• Global Impact: India leads globally in biometric identification and real-time payments, enhancing financial inclusion and economic growth.
• Challenges: Rising consumer vulnerability and cybersecurity risks, with a notable increase in digital payment complaints and data breach costs.

World Mangrove Day Highlights and Threats

• Global Distribution: Southeast Asia, led by Indonesia, contains one-third of global mangroves.
• Conservation Urgency: Significant loss due to climate change, industrial expansion, and agriculture, especially in critical regions like Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep.
• Environmental Benefits: Mangroves serve as vital carbon sinks and protect coastal areas from natural disasters, underscoring their ecological importance.

Initiatives and Challenges in Urban Flood Management

• Recent Approvals: Projects approved for urban flood management in multiple states including Telangana and Gujarat.
• Key Causes: Urban floods exacerbated by climate change, rapid urbanization, and inadequate infrastructure maintenance.
• Future Plans: Emphasis on enhancing early warning systems and improving urban planning to mitigate flood impacts.

Advancements and Policies in Natural Farming

• Government Support: Introduction of 1 crore farmers to natural farming with plans for certification and bio-input resource centers.
• Farming Practices: Emphasis on low-input, climate-resilient methods using traditional techniques and bio-stimulants.
• Challenges Ahead: Overcoming skepticism among farmers, ensuring the availability of quality inputs, and addressing higher labor demands.

Strategic Developments in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad)

• Recent Meeting: Focus on maritime security and humanitarian assistance coordination.
• India’s Role: Quad helps India counterbalance regional threats and enhances its strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific.
• Future Directions: Plans to expand maritime collaboration and implement disaster relief operations more effectively.

Role of Thorium in India’s Future Energy Plans

• Innovative Nuclear Technology: Thorium-based reactors are highlighted as a safer and more sustainable alternative to traditional uranium reactors.
• Resource Availability: India’s rich thorium reserves in states like Kerala and Odisha position it as a leader in thorium technology.
• Environmental Benefits: Thorium reactors promise reduced radioactive waste and enhanced safety features.

Key Terms and Concepts

• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Systems that allow for the seamless exchange of information across digital platforms, crucial for economic and social programs.
• Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI): Aims to enhance the ecological and economic value of mangrove ecosystems.
• Natural Farming: A farming practice that eliminates synthetic inputs, emphasizing sustainable and ecological agricultural methods.