03 April 2025 : Daily Current Affairs

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1. How did the Myanmar earthquake occur?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Overview of the Earthquake

• The Sagaing fault, one of the most seismically active faults in the region, was the source of the earthquake.
• Several aftershocks, including a 6.4-magnitude tremor, followed within minutes.

Impact of the Earthquake

• The earthquake caused widespread devastation, resulting in thousands of deaths and extensive destruction of homes and infrastructure.
• Mandalay, with a population of 1.5 million, was the hardest hit, with severe damage to pagodas, mosques, and bridges.
• The U.S. Geological Survey estimated a death toll exceeding 10,000 in the affected regions.

Why Some Areas Were More Affected

• The southern part of the Sagaing fault experienced more damage due to thicker alluvial soil, which amplified seismic energy.
• China’s Yunnan Province and eastern India were spared major destruction because of different geological conditions and the north-south dispersal of seismic energy.

Earthquake Activity in South Asia

• South Asia is prone to earthquakes due to its location near major tectonic features such as the Himalayas, Shillong Plateau, Indo-Burman Range, and Andaman-Nicobar subduction zone.
• The Indian and Eurasian Plates have been colliding for 40 million years, leading to frequent earthquakes.
• Notable past earthquakes include:
  • 1792 Arakan earthquake (8.5-magnitude) – caused a tsunami in the Bay of Bengal.
  • 2004 Sumatra earthquake (9.2-magnitude) – generated a devastating tsunami.

Sagaing Fault and its Geodynamics

• The Sagaing fault runs 1,400 km and is a strike-slip fault, meaning tectonic blocks slide past each other horizontally.
• It accommodates 50-55% of plate motion in the region, with a slip rate of 15-25 mm per year.
• The San Andreas fault in the U.S. is another example of such a fault.

Historical Earthquakes on the Sagaing Fault

• The region has experienced multiple earthquakes, including:
  • 1839 Ava earthquake (7.8-magnitude) – killed over 500 people.
  • 1927 earthquake – strongly felt north of Yangon.
  • 1946 earthquake (7.7-magnitude) – similar in magnitude to the 2025 quake.
  • 2016 Bagan earthquake – damaged historic religious monuments.

Lessons for India

• Myanmar’s earthquake serves as a warning for India, which is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in South Asia.
• India must implement scientifically tested safety measures to reduce earthquake damage and protect lives and infrastructure.

2. ‘India must use window of opportunity to finalise ‘stronger’ FTA with Sri Lanka’

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 15)

India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Prospects

• India has an opportunity to finalize a stronger Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Sri Lanka.
• The current Sri Lankan government is more open to economic cooperation with India than previous governments.
• India’s assistance during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis has improved bilateral relations.

Scope of the Proposed FTA

• The agreement could include trade in services and allow freer movement of workers.
• It aims to remove protectionist barriers, primarily on the Sri Lankan side.
• Strengthening ties should not disturb global powers like China and the U.S., which have interests in Sri Lanka.

Regional Economic Integration

• Economic integration with southern Indian states, particularly Tamil Nadu, has significant potential.
• A proposed bridge between Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka could enhance connectivity.
• Collaboration can take place at different levels, including government-to-government and business-to-business.

Current Political and Economic Situation in Sri Lanka

• The ruling government in Sri Lanka has no strong political opposition and no corruption charges so far.
• Economic stabilization measures under the IMF program helped Sri Lanka recover from its financial crisis.
• However, the country needs faster economic growth beyond IMF reforms to avoid another crisis by 2027.
• The situation presents a perfect opportunity for India to strengthen trade and regional ties with Sri Lanka.

3. India’s critical efforts to tackle air pollution could worsen warming

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Aerosols and Greenhouse Gases

• Aerosols and greenhouse gases both impact the climate but in different ways.
• Greenhouse gases trap heat, causing global warming, while aerosols reflect sunlight, creating a cooling effect.
• Greenhouse gases remain in the atmosphere for centuries, while aerosols last only a few days to weeks.

Air Pollution and Climate Change in India

• India is struggling to reduce air pollution while also addressing climate change.
• Aerosols from industrial activities, especially thermal power plants, contribute to cooling but also cause respiratory problems.
• If aerosol emissions are reduced quickly without reducing greenhouse gases, extreme heat could increase in polluted regions.

Effects of Aerosol Reduction on Temperature and Rainfall

• Regions that reduced aerosols in the past experienced a rise in warming trends.
• The removal of aerosols can cause an immediate increase in temperatures.
• Aerosols also impact the monsoon; their reduction may increase rainfall in India.
• Studies show that reducing aerosols in one country can affect climate patterns in distant regions.

Policy Challenges and Recommendations

• Policymakers must consider the trade-offs between air pollution control and climate change mitigation.
• Vulnerable populations, especially in highly polluted areas, need better heat action plans.
• Long-term adaptation strategies should focus on balancing warming, rainfall changes, and public health benefits.
• Reducing aerosols improves human health, outweighing short-term warming effects.

4. IMD Predicts Severe Heatwaves Across India: Rising Temperatures Demand Urgent Action

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained, Page – 14)

Analysis of the news:                                                                               

The Looming Threat of Heatwaves

• The summer of 2025 is expected to be extremely warm, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting an above-normal number of heatwave days across most parts of India.
• This is in line with the worsening trend of extreme heat, which has serious consequences for public health, livelihoods, and economic stability. While heatwaves are a consequence of climate change, their impact can be mitigated through timely and effective interventions.
• However, despite the existence of heat action plans in many states, their implementation remains inadequate, leaving vulnerable populations at risk.

The Heatwave Forecast: A Worsening Trend

• According to the IMD, northern, central, and eastern India will experience an exceptional increase in heatwave days between April and June.
• Some regions, such as Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and the Northeast, might escape extreme temperatures, but most of the country is expected to suffer prolonged heat stress.

The frequency of heatwaves has been rising sharply. For instance:

• Rajasthan, which normally sees 8-12 heatwave days, recorded 23 heatwave days in eastern Rajasthan and 29 in western Rajasthan in 2024.
  
  
• Uttar Pradesh, which usually experiences 10-12 heatwave days, suffered through 32 heatwave days in 2024.
  
  
• Even Kerala, which rarely experiences heatwaves, recorded six heatwave days in 2024.
  
  

In total, India saw 554 heatwave days in 2024, the highest in the last 15 years, except for 2010, which had 578 heatwave days. While 2024 was the warmest year on record, heatwaves are not directly correlated to annual temperature trends, as they are concentrated, short-term events rather than a measure of year-long climate patterns.

Heatwaves Over Time: An Increasing Threat

• Several studies have confirmed the rising intensity and frequency of heatwaves.
• A recent study, Heat Waves in India: Patterns, Associations, and Sub-Seasonal Prediction Skills, published in the journal Climate Dynamics, analyzed heatwave trends over the past seven decades.

Key findings include:

• Since 2000, the number of heatwave days has been increasing at a rate of three days per decade in central, northwest, and southeast India.
  
  
• Southeastern coastal areas (Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh) have seen the most pronounced increase in heatwaves.
  
  
• Long-duration heatwaves (lasting seven days or more) are becoming more common, particularly in the northwest, central, and southeastern regions.
  
  
• Heatwaves are no longer restricted to summer months, with heatwave-like conditions occurring as early as February in some areas.
  
  

These findings underscore the need for stronger adaptation measures to protect vulnerable populations and mitigate the economic impact of heatwaves.

Heat Action Plans: A Partial Solution

• The IMD provides accurate heatwave forecasts up to a week in advance, giving states and districts time to prepare.
• Unlike localized extreme rainfall, heatwaves affect large areas, making them easier to predict.
• However, forecasting alone is not enough—effective response measures are necessary to reduce human suffering and economic loss.

Heat Action Plans (HAPs) have been developed in at least 23 states and multiple districts. These plans list preventive measures such as:

• Setting up public shade structures
  
  
• Ensuring access to drinking water
  
  
• Distributing oral rehydration solutions
  
  
• Rescheduling school, office, and work hours to avoid peak heat
  
  

While these short-term interventions have proven effective, the implementation of long-term measures has been lacking.

Challenges in Implementation

Recent assessments, such as a study by the Sustainable Futures Collaborative, reveal that governments focus mainly on reactive, short-term measures rather than proactive, long-term solutions. Key issues include:

• Lack of urban greening initiatives, such as tree plantation and green corridors.
  
  
• Failure to rejuvenate water bodies, which can help cool urban areas.
  
  
• Neglect of infrastructure modifications, like heat-reflective roofing or climate-responsive urban planning.
  
  

Currently, most heat action plans are triggered only when a heatwave alert is issued, rather than being integrated into long-term climate adaptation strategies. This reactive approach fails to address the root causes of urban heat stress and leaves populations vulnerable to recurring heatwaves.

Conclusion:

• The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves in India highlight the urgent need for comprehensive climate adaptation measures.
• While forecasting and short-term interventions can help reduce immediate impacts, governments must integrate heat action plans into long-term urban planning and climate policies.
• Strategies such as increasing green cover, improving water conservation, and developing heat-resistant infrastructure are essential to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures.
• Without proactive measures, the burden of heatwaves will continue to grow, endangering public health, economic productivity, and overall well-being.

5. Fluoride Contamination in Sonbhadra: A Public Health Crisis Amid Delayed Clean Water Solutions

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Express Network, Page – 12)

Analysis of the news:

Health Impacts of Fluoride Contamination

• Fluorosis is a non-fatal yet debilitating disease that causes bone deformities, muscle weakness, and yellow teeth in children.
• Patients struggle with basic mobility, while many villagers depend on walking sticks due to joint pain and weakness.
• Concerns are growing over the long-term impact on future generations, with many children already showing early symptoms.

Government Response and Challenges

The government has initiated temporary relief measures, including:

• Treated water supply from Songanga river (for 30 minutes daily)
  
  
• Over 800 water tankers supplying potable water
  
  
• Water pipeline installation under Jal Jeevan Mission (2019)
  
  

However, challenges persist:

• Incomplete infrastructure: Of the 12 water supply schemes, only 10 are operational.
  
  
• Delayed pipeline projects: 13,000 km of pipelines have been installed, but many areas still lack clean water.
  
  
• Inconsistent water supply: Villagers rely on borewells and hand pumps, risking further exposure.
  
  

Lack of Sustainable Solutions

• Earlier small-scale water treatment plants failed due to lack of maintenance and technical expertise.
• Villagers were advised to consume tamarind and lemon to reduce fluoride’s impact but were also warned that boiling water increases fluoride concentration, leaving them with limited safe alternatives.

Need for Long-Term Interventions

The crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management, including:

• Expansion of surface water supply projects
  
  
• Regular water quality testing through trained Jal Sakhis
  
  
• Better maintenance of water treatment plants
  
  
• Increased government accountability to ensure timely completion of water pipeline projects
  
  

Conclusion

• The fluorosis crisis in Sonbhadra is a stark reminder of India’s rural water quality challenges.
• While government efforts are underway, delays in implementation and lack of sustained interventions continue to put thousands of lives at risk.
• The success of Jal Jeevan Mission depends on ensuring timely access to clean drinking water, without which villagers will remain trapped in a cycle of poor health and limited mobility.

6 Fiscal Health Index 2025

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2117890 )

Introduction

• Odisha ranks first, followed by Chhattisgarh, Goa, Jharkhand, and Gujarat.
• Since states handle two-thirds of public spending and one-third of total revenue, their financial health is crucial for the nation’s economic stability.
• The index, based on data from the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), covers the Financial Year 2022-23.

Objectives of the Fiscal Health Index

• To compare states’ fiscal health using standardized indicators.
• To identify strengths and weaknesses in financial management.
• To promote transparency, accountability, and better fiscal governance.
• To assist policymakers in making informed financial decisions.

Key Indicators Evaluated

1. Tax Buoyancy

• Measures how well tax revenue grows in relation to economic growth.
• Evaluates states’ revenue collection efficiency.

2. Debt-to-GSDP Ratio

• Compares a state’s total debt to its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).
• Indicates a state’s ability to repay debts.

3. Expenditure Management

• Assesses efficiency in spending allocation and fiscal discipline.
• Focuses on prioritization of capital expenditure.

4. Debt Management

• Examines states’ debt levels, interest payments, and sustainability.

5. Fiscal Deficit Management

• Evaluates fiscal deficit as a percentage of GSDP and compliance with statutory limits.

6. Overall Fiscal Sustainability

• Provides a holistic assessment of revenue, expenditure, debt, and deficit.

Key Findings

• Odisha ranks first (67.8), excelling in debt sustainability and fiscal management.
• Chhattisgarh (55.2) and Goa (53.6) follow, excelling in revenue generation and debt control.
• Non-tax revenue mobilization is highest in Odisha, Jharkhand, Goa, and Chhattisgarh, contributing 21% of total revenue.
• States facing fiscal challenges include Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala, struggling with high deficits and poor debt sustainability.
• Capital expenditure allocation is highest (27%) in states like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Goa, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh.
• West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan allocate only 10% of their expenditure to capital investments.
• Rising debt concerns exist for West Bengal and Punjab, with increasing debt-to-GSDP ratios.

Debt Sustainability

• Ensures states can repay debts without defaulting or requiring financial aid.
• Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Goa perform best in debt management.
• Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala face challenges in debt sustainability.

Conclusion

• The Fiscal Health Index 2025 helps states monitor financial stability and performance.
• It emphasizes the need for strong revenue generation, debt control, and efficient spending.
• The report has been shared with all States/UTs to guide them toward sustainable fiscal practices.
• States must focus on fiscal prudence and responsible financial management to ensure long-term economic stability.

Prelims Facts

1. ‘India logged 93.2-bn UPI transactions in H2FY24’

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 12)

Analysis of the news:

• The total transaction volume rose by 42% year-on-year, reaching 93.23 billion.
• The transaction value also increased by 31% to ₹130.19 trillion.
• Grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, and government services contributed the most, accounting for 68% of transactions and 53% of the total value.

2. Brazilian indigenous chief is staving off Amazon destruction

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 15)

Analysis of the news:

• The Kayapo people are an Indigenous group living in the Amazon rainforest, mainly in Brazil.
• They belong to the larger Mebêngôkre ethnic group and speak the Kayapo language.
• Their territory covers a vast forested area along the Xingu River.
• The Kayapo are known for their deep connection to nature and sustainable way of life.
• They live in circular villages with straw-and-wood houses.
• Traditional dress includes colorful body paint, feathered headdresses, and lip plates for men.
• They rely on hunting, fishing, and farming for food.
• The Kayapo actively resist deforestation, illegal mining, and logging in their homeland.

3. Chandrayaan’s ChaSTE takes the moon’s temperature

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

ChaSTE: Lunar Temperature Measurement Breakthrough:

• It carried an instrument called Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) to measure temperatures.

• ChaSTE’s probe slowly pushed itself into the Moon’s soil using a rotation-based mechanism.
• It became the first successful mission to measure temperatures below the Moon’s surface.
• ChaSTE confirmed that water ice is more common on the Moon than expected.
• Previous missions (Philae & InSight) failed to penetrate soil properly due to different designs.
• ChaSTE’s success was due to its unique rotating probe instead of hammering.
• The probe descended 10 cm into the Moon’s surface and collected data until September 2, 2023.
• Scientists used temperature sensors placed along the probe to track its depth.
• ChaSTE’s success marks a breakthrough in lunar exploration and temperature measurement technology.

4. New damselfly species found in Kerala

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)

Analysis of the news:

• It belongs to the family Euphaeidae, which includes various damselfly species.
• This marks the 191st odonate species recorded in Kerala and the 223rd in the Western Ghats.
• Scientists from Kerala and Maharashtra identified the species using integrated taxonomy methods.
• It prefers fast-flowing streams with rocks and aquatic plants, surrounded by evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.
• The species is observed throughout the year except in March and April due to dry conditions.
• It was first spotted in 2013 at the Kalindi River, Thirunelli, Wayanad district.
• The species has a highly restricted habitat, requiring conservation efforts to protect its fragile ecosystem.

5. Italy Tightens Citizenship Laws, Restricts Ancestral Claims

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained, Page – 14)

Analysis of the news:

Previous Citizenship Rules

• Until now, anyone with an Italian ancestor alive after 1861 could apply for Italian citizenship.
• The process took around two years and involved notarization, translation, and legal expenses.
• This allowed even those with distant ancestry, such as great-grandparents, to obtain citizenship.

New Regulations

• Under the new law, applicants must have at least one Italian parent or grandparent to qualify.
• Dual nationals risk losing Italian citizenship if they fail to engage with Italy by voting, paying taxes, or renewing their passports.
• Italian language proficiency is now a mandatory requirement.

Reasons for the Change

• The Italian government introduced these restrictions to prevent individuals with minimal cultural or linguistic ties from obtaining citizenship purely for passport benefits.
• The number of Italian citizens abroad has increased significantly, straining administrative resources such as courts and consulates.

Impact and Criticism

• The reform will drastically reduce eligibility, affecting thousands of applicants.
• Critics argue that while Italy tightens ancestry-based citizenship, it continues to deny automatic birthright citizenship to children of immigrants, who can only apply at 18 after living in Italy since birth.
• The new law does not address this issue.

check more – 02 April 2025 : Daily Current Affairs