What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• Key highlights of the regional conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security'
• Fight against drug menace – India’s regulatory framework

Why in News?

• Chairing a regional conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security', Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged states, UTs, and agencies to take strict legal action against illegal drug labs with a ruthless approach to combat drug trafficking.
• The conference was organized by the Narcotics Control Bureau. The aim of this conference was to focus on tackling the growing concern of drug trafficking and its impact on national security, with a special focus on eight states and union territories of northern India.

Key highlights of the regional conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security'

• Record Drug Seizures in 2024
  • Narcotics worth Rs 16,914 crore were seized in 2024, the highest since Independence.
  • The minister highlighted a seven-fold increase in drug seizures over the last decade, attributing it to the government’s decisive measures.
• Dark Web and Emerging Challenges
  • Dark web, cryptocurrency, online marketplaces, and drones were identified as significant challenges in the fight against drug trafficking.
    • The dark web is a small, encrypted portion of the deep web that's not visible to the general public using traditional search engines. It's also known as the darknet.
    • One can't access the dark web using Google Search or browsers like Chrome or Safari. Instead, 
    • One needs to use software designed specifically for this purpose, such as Tor (The Onion Router) or I2P (Invisible Internet Project).
  • In this context, the Minister stressed the need for technical solutions through collaboration between states, the Central government, and technocrats.
• Success Against Narco-Terrorism
  • The government has dismantled numerous narco-terrorism networks in states such as Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. 
  • These efforts have curbed terrorism linked to drug trafficking.
• Launch of Drug Disposal Fortnight
  • The Union Minister inaugurated the Drug Disposal Fortnight (January 11–25), during which 1 lakh kg of narcotics worth Rs 8,600 crore will be destroyed.
  • This initiative is part of a broader strategy to achieve a drug-free India by 2047.
• Three-Pronged Strategy for a Drug-Free India
  • The Home Ministry’s plan includes:
    • Strengthening institutional frameworks.
    • Enhancing coordination among narcotics agencies.
    • Launching public awareness campaigns.
• Seizures and Destruction of Drugs: A Decade in Review
  • Between 2004-2014, 3.63 kg of drugs were seized, while in 2014-2024, the figure rose to 24 lakh kg—a seven-fold increase.
  • The value of destroyed drugs increased from Rs 8,150 crore (2004-2014) to Rs 54,851 crore (2014-2024), marking an eight-fold rise.
• NCB's Initiatives and Expansion
  • Shah inaugurated the NCB Bhopal Zonal Unit office and extended the MANAS-2 helpline to all 36 states and UTs.
  • The regional conference, organized by the NCB, aims to strengthen the national response to drug trafficking and its impact on security.
• Youth and National Development
  • The Home Minister emphasized the importance of combating drug addiction among youth, stating, "No country can progress if its young generation is suffering from drug addiction." 
  • He urged collective efforts to address this challenge.
• Vision for a Drug-Free India
  • The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan is critical to achieving a drug-free India, aligned with PM Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047.
  • Collective responsibility and dedication are essential to eradicate this menace and safeguard the nation’s future generations.

Fight against drug menace – India’s regulatory framework

• Article 47 of the Indian Constitution
  • The National Policy on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances is based on the Directive Principles, contained in Article 47 of the Indian Constitution.
  • The Article directs the State to endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption, except for medicinal purposes, of intoxicating drugs injurious to health.
• Signatory to international conventions
  • India is a signatory to: 
    • the single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961, as amended by the 1972 Protocol,the Conventions on Psychotropic Substances, 1971 and 
    • the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988.
• Existing Laws 
  • The broad legislative policy is contained in the three Central Acts:
    • Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, 
    • The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, and 
    • The Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988.
• Institutions involved
  • The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) was created in 1986 as a nodal agency to fight against this menace. 
  • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) are involved with alcohol and drug demand reduction policies and drug de-addiction programme.
  • In order to prevent misuse of dual-use drugs, a permanent inter-ministerial committee has been formed with the ministry of health and family welfare and the ministry of chemicals.
• Technological intervention
  • The NCORD portal has been launched as an effective mechanism for information exchange between various institutions/agencies.
  • A toll-free helpline called MANAS (Madak Padarth Nishedh Asuchna Kendra) with the number 1933 has been launched.
• Other measures
  • The government aims to achieve drug-free India by 2047 through a 3 points strategy - strengthening of institutional structure, coordination among all narco agencies and extensive public awareness campaign.
  • As part of this strategy a number of steps have been taken which includes:
    • Establishment of a dedicated Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) in each state/UTs.
    • High priority to Drug Disposal drive.
    • Launch of NIDAAN Portal for Narco offenders. 
    • Creation of canine squads for drug detection.
    • Strengthening the forensic capabilities.
    • Establishment of Special NDPS Courts and Fast Track Courts.
    • Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) for generating Awareness against drug Abuse.

Q.1. What initiatives were launched to combat drug trafficking in India?

Key initiatives include the Drug Disposal Fortnight, Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, MANAS helpline, and strategies targeting supply chains, demand reduction, and victim rehabilitation.

Q.2. How is the government addressing emerging challenges in drug trafficking?

The government is tackling issues like the dark web, cryptocurrency, and drone use through technological solutions, enhanced coordination, and strengthening institutional frameworks.

Sources: IE | PIB | TH

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Key Drivers of India’s Oil Imports
• Rising Role of West Asia in India’s Oil Imports
• Price Dynamics of India’s Oil Imports
• Future Outlook of India’s Oil Imports
• Conclusion

Why in News?

• India’s crude oil imports witnessed a significant shift in December 2024, with increased reliance on West Asian countries like Iraq and the UAE.
• This adjustment comes as Russian crude oil supplies dwindled due to heightened domestic demand.

Key Drivers of India’s Oil Imports:

• Prior to the war in Ukraine:
  • Iraq and Saudi Arabia were the top two suppliers of crude oil to India.
  • But as the West started removing itself off Russian energy supplies following Moscow’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russia started offering discounts on its crude.
  • Indian refiners took advantage of the situation, importing discounted barrels from Russia.
• Shift towards West Asia:
  • Russia’s domestic demand surge:
    • Russian refineries operated at higher capacities post-autumn maintenance, reducing export volumes.
    • Seasonal demand in Russia capped oil exports, impacting Indian refiners reliant on Russian crude.
  • India’s imports from Russia:
    • Imports of Russian crude dropped 17% to 1.48 million barrels per day (bpd).
    • Russia’s market share in India’s oil basket declined to 31.5% from 38% in November.

Rising Role of West Asia in India’s Oil Imports:

• Iraq’s increased share:
  • Iraq emerged as a key beneficiary, with imports jumping 29% to 1.13 million bpd.
  • Iraq’s share in India’s oil imports rose from 18.7% in November to 24% in December.
• UAE’s growing presence:
  • UAE imports hit a 32-month high of 530,000 bpd, up 22.1% month-on-month.
  • UAE’s share increased to 11.2% in December, up from 9.2% in November.
• Saudi Arabia’s moderate gains:
  • Imports from Saudi Arabia rose 4.4% to 649,000 bpd.
  • Riyadh’s market share grew marginally to 13.8%.
  • However, Saudi Arabia was unable to capitalise on the opportunity due to its barrels being priced higher than Iraqi and Emirati oil.

Price Dynamics of India’s Oil Imports:

• Comparative pricing:
  • Russian Urals crude was priced $5.5 per barrel cheaper than Saudi Arabia’s Arab Light.
  • Iraq’s Basrah Medium crude was competitively priced, only $0.80 higher than Dubai crude.
• Impact on Indian refiners:
  • Discounts on Russian crude have shrunk but remain attractive due to India’s large import volumes.
  • Even marginal cost savings on oil significantly benefit India, which imports over 85% of its crude needs.

Future Outlook of India’s Oil Imports:

• Short-term trends:
  • Russian oil imports are expected to remain low in early 2025 due to domestic constraints.
  • Indian refiners are likely to rely more on West Asian suppliers.
• Potential rebound: Russian exports may recover during spring maintenance season, potentially resuming higher Indian imports by March-April 2025.

Conclusion:

• As the world’s 3rd-largest consumer of crude oil with a high import dependency level of over 85%, India is extremely sensitive to oil prices.
• The shift in India’s crude oil sourcing highlights the country’s agility in navigating global oil market dynamics.
• While Russia remains a critical supplier, the growing importance of West Asian nations like Iraq and the UAE underscores India’s strategic approach to maintaining energy security and cost efficiency.

Q.1. What is OPEC?

OPEC stands for Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. It's an intergovernmental organization that coordinates the petroleum policies of its member countries.

Q.2. What is the strategic importance of West Asia for India?

West Asia is extremely important for India's energy security, food security, diaspora welfare, and maritime linkages and security.

Source: IE

What’s in today’s article?

• Background
• Why Are Lithium Batteries a Concern?
• Position Papers by IFALPA
• Case Studies and Data
• Proposed Mitigation Strategies
• Broader Implications
• Conclusion

Background

• Lithium-ion batteries have become integral to modern technology due to their high energy density, rechargeability, and versatility.
• These batteries power a wide range of devices, from electric vehicles (EVs) to consumer electronics. However, their growing use in aviation has raised significant safety concerns, particularly regarding their fire risks.
• The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) recently issued position papers highlighting the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries in airport and aircraft environments.
  • The IFALPA is a global non-profit representing the international community of professional pilots.

Why Are Lithium Batteries a Concern?

• Lithium-ion batteries, while efficient, can catch fire under certain physical or environmental stresses.
• Fires are caused by short circuits within the battery, which lead to continuous production of heat, oxygen, and electric current. Factors contributing to these risks include:
  • Mechanical Abuse: Deformation of internal structures.
  • Electrical Abuse: Degraded performance due to improper usage or charging.
  • Thermal Abuse: Heat accumulation leading to a "thermal runaway.
• For example, after Hurricane Helene in 2024, 48 lithium-ion batteries caught fire due to prolonged exposure to salt water, underscoring the risks associated with improper battery ratings for extreme conditions like flooding.

Position Papers by IFALPA

• The IFALPA’s position papers (POS01, POS02, and POS03) address various aspects of lithium battery safety:
  • POS01 - Safe Transport of Batteries:
    • Focuses on UN regulations 3480 and 3481 for air transport of lithium-ion batteries.
    • Calls for extending the 30% state-of-charge (SOC) limit to equipment with built-in batteries (UN3481) to reduce fire risks during transportation.
  • POS02 - Fire Safety Protocols:
    • Highlights that fires caused by lithium-ion batteries differ from traditional fires.
    • Calls for airports and ground services to develop specialized fire-safety equipment and protocols to handle these incidents effectively.
  • POS03 - Risks in Flight Decks:
    • Raises concerns about batteries in critical aircraft components.
    • Cites studies by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) showing that existing fire kits are inadequate for high-energy lithium-ion battery fires.

Case Studies and Data

• Energy Density Concerns: Modern lithium-ion batteries have become more energy-dense, increasing their potential for catastrophic fires. This poses challenges for firefighting and containment.
• Toxic Fumes: When these batteries burn, they release hazardous fumes, requiring specialized safety measures.
• Inadequate Fire Kits: Research indicates that current firefighting kits fail to address battery fires effectively, particularly those with an energy rating exceeding 100 Wh.

Proposed Mitigation Strategies

• Enhanced Packaging and Labelling:
  • Adherence to strict UN regulations for bulk and equipment-contained batteries.
  • Implementation of SOC limits across all battery types.
• Development of Specialized Equipment:
  • Airports and rescue services should invest in purpose-built fire-safety kits designed for lithium-ion battery fires.
• Regulatory Updates:
  • Extend safety standards to address growing applications of lithium-ion batteries in aviation.
• Public Awareness and Training:
  • Educate passengers and airline personnel on safe handling and storage of lithium-ion batteries during travel.

Broader Implications

• The safety risks of lithium-ion batteries extend beyond aviation. With increasing use in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, the need for robust safety standards is more critical than ever.
• Addressing these concerns will require collaboration between industries, regulatory bodies, and researchers to develop innovative solutions for safe energy storage and transportation.

Conclusion

• Lithium-ion batteries are essential to modern life, but their potential fire hazards demand urgent attention.
• The insights from IFALPA’s position papers underscore the need for enhanced safety protocols, regulatory reforms, and technological innovations.
• By addressing these challenges proactively, industries can ensure the safe and sustainable use of this indispensable technology.

Q1.What are Transition Metals?

Transition metals are one of the group of metals in the centre of the periodic table. Transition metals are heavy, they melt only at high temperatures, they form coloured compounds, they can combine with another element to form more than one compound, and they often act as a catalyst.

Q2. What is the meaning of Asthenosphere?

The asthenosphere is an important layer, or zone, within the earth. Temperature increases with depth in the earth and eventually the rock material of the mantle becomes partially molten. This partially molten layer is called the asthenosphere. It is located below the Lithosphere.

Source : Safety First

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)
• Excessive Nitrate in Groundwater: A Growing Concern
• Regional Analysis of Nitrate Contamination in Groundwater
• Other Major Chemical Contaminants in Groundwater
• State of Groundwater in 2024

 Why in News?

• An assessment of India’s groundwater by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) found that several States are grappling with a serious problem of nitrate contamination.

Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)

• About
  • The Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) is a key organization under India's Ministry of Jal Shakti, responsible for monitoring, managing, and regulating groundwater resources. 
  • It maintains a vast network of observation wells to assess groundwater quality and availability. 
  • It also provides technical guidance, promotes sustainable practices, and formulates policies to address groundwater-related challenges across the country.
• Head quarter - Bhujal Bhawan, Faridabad, Haryana
• Organization Setup: The Board is headed by the Chairman and has five members.
• Measurement of Groundwater Levels: Observation Network
• Current Network: The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) uses 26,000 observation wells to manually measure groundwater levels.
• Digital Integration: Since 2023, 16,000-17,000 piezometers equipped with digital water level recorders transmit real-time data to a central system.

Excessive Nitrate in Groundwater: A Growing Concern

• Increase in Nitrate-Contaminated Districts
  • The number of districts with excessive nitrate in groundwater increased from 359 in 2017 to 440 in 2023, impacting nearly 56% of India’s districts.
  • Excessive nitrate levels are defined as concentrations above 45 mg/l.
• Groundwater Testing and Trends
  • 2017 Findings: 13,028 samples were analyzed, with 21.6% showing excessive nitrate levels.
  • 2023 Findings: Of 15,239 samples tested, 19.8% had nitrate levels above safe limits.
  • While the percentage of affected samples has not substantially changed, the number of contaminated districts has risen.
• Health Concerns
  • Excessive nitrate in groundwater causes methemoglobinemia, reducing the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen, particularly affecting infants and vulnerable populations.
• Environmental Impact
  • Elevated nitrate levels in groundwater can lead to algal blooms in lakes and ponds, severely degrading aquatic ecosystems by depleting oxygen and harming biodiversity.
• Sources of Nitrate Contamination
  • Agricultural Practices: Farmers use fertilizers such as ammonium nitrate, calcium nitrate, urea, and diammonium hydrogen phosphate, leading to nitrogen leaching into groundwater.
• Forms of Dissolved Nitrogen in Groundwater:
  • Nitrate (NO3-)
  • Ammonium (NH4+)
  • Ammonia (NH3)
  • Nitrite (NO2-)
  • Nitrogen gas (N2)
  • Nitrous oxide (N2O)
  • Organic nitrogen

Regional Analysis of Nitrate Contamination in Groundwater

• States with the Highest Proportion of Contaminated Blocks
  • Rajasthan: 49% of tested samples exceeded permissible nitrate levels.
  • Karnataka: 48% of tested samples were contaminated.
  • Tamil Nadu: 37% of tested samples showed excessive nitrate levels.
• States with Persistent Nitrate Issues
  • Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat: These states have had a long-standing nitrate problem with contamination levels remaining relatively constant since 2017.
• Emerging Nitrate Concerns in Central and Southern India
  • Increasing nitrate contamination has been observed in blocks in central and southern India, raising alarm.
  • States with notable levels of contamination:
    • Maharashtra: 35.74%
    • Telangana: 27.48%
    • Andhra Pradesh: 23.5%
    • Madhya Pradesh: 22.58%

Other Major Chemical Contaminants in Groundwater

• Key Contaminants
  • Arsenic, Iron, Fluoride, and Uranium: These chemicals significantly affect groundwater quality alongside nitrate contamination.
  • Fluoride Contamination: 9.04% of tested groundwater samples had fluoride levels exceeding the permissible limit.
    • High-Risk States: Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana reported high fluoride concentrations, making it a “major concern.”
  • Uranium Contamination: Several samples had uranium concentrations exceeding 100 ppb (parts per billion), far above the safe limit of 30 ppb.
    • High-Risk States: Rajasthan and Punjab reported the maximum number of contaminated samples. Other affected states include Gujarat, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
• Cause
  • Predominantly observed in regions with over-exploited groundwater (where water withdrawal exceeds replenishment).

State of Groundwater in 2024

• Groundwater Extraction: The country’s groundwater extraction rate stands at 60.4%, consistent since 2009.
• Safe Zones: Approximately 73% of blocks are classified as ‘safe,’ indicating sufficient replenishment to balance water withdrawal.

Q.1. What are the main contaminants in India’s groundwater?

Nitrate, fluoride, arsenic, iron, and uranium are the primary contaminants affecting groundwater. Excessive nitrate levels, particularly in Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, lead to health issues and environmental damage.

Q.2. How is groundwater quality monitored in India?

The Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) monitors groundwater quality using a network of 26,000 observation wells and digital piezometers, providing real-time data on contamination and availability.

Source: TH | CGWA