Today's Brief 16-18/01/2024

1. Chabahar Port: India and Iran finally reached a final agreement on the development of the strategically important Chabahar Port in southeastern Iran. Chabahar Port, Iran

• Long-term commitment: The new agreement replaces the original contract, which was valid for only 10 years and required annual renewals. The new agreement is valid for 10 years with automatic extension, showcasing a stronger commitment from both sides.

• Boosting regional trade: The Chabahar Port is seen as a key transit hub for the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a 7,200-kilometer multi-mode transport project connecting India, Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe. This agreement is expected to significantly boost trade and economic activity in the region.

• Focus on Afghanistan: India has been particularly interested in developing Chabahar Port to provide a trade route to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan. This is especially important now with the Taliban in control of Afghanistan.

• Joint efforts: The agreement also includes the formation of a joint transportation committee to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries and optimize the use of the INSTC.

2.India To Include Persian As One Of 9 Classical Languages: S Jaishankar--In a significant step towards strengthening cultural bonds, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has declared that the Indian government has chosen to incorporate Farsi (Persian) as one of the nine classical languages in India, aligning with the New Education Policy. During a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart, H. Amir-Abdollahian, Jaishankar, who is currently on a two-day visit to Iran, highlighted the cultural, literary, and linguistic connections shared between Iran and India.

This acknowledgment signifies a commitment to promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of Farsi's rich heritage within the Indian educational system. Tamil was the first language in India to receive classical language status in 2004, with Sanskrit, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia subsequently joining the list of classical languages declared by the central government.

According to India's National Education Policy-2020, "In addition to these classical languages Pali, Persian, and Prakrit; and their works of literature too must be preserved for their richness and for the pleasure and enrichment of posterity."

Addressing regional connectivity, Jaishankar reiterated India's interest in leveraging Iran's strategic geographical position to access markets in Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Eurasia. The ministers explored opportunities to strengthen economic ties and enhance regional connectivity for mutual benefit.

 Here are some interesting facts about the Farsi language:

Ancient and Enduring:

• Farsi, also known as Persian, is one of the oldest languages still spoken, with roots dating back to the 6th century BC. This means Iranians can read poems from 1600-1700 years ago with relative ease!

• It has witnessed empires rise and fall, adapting and evolving while retaining its core identity.

Global Reach:

• Spoken by roughly 130 million people worldwide, it's the official language of Iran, Afghanistan (as Dari), and Tajikistan (as Tajik).

• Significant Farsi-speaking communities exist in Uzbekistan, Bahrain, Iraq, Turkey, and even the US.

Unique Traits:

• Farsi belongs to the Indo-Iranian branch of the Indo-European language family, making it a distant cousin to English, Spanish, and Hindi.

• It has a beautiful, flowing script adapted from Arabic, with 34 letters and elegant cursive writing.

• Its grammar is relatively simple compared to its ancient ancestor, Old Persian, with fewer inflections and a straightforward sentence structure.

Literary Legacy:

• Renowned for its rich literary tradition, Farsi boasts iconic poets like Ferdowsi (Shahnameh), Rumi (Mathnawi), and Hafez (Diwan).

• These works delve into themes of love, mysticism, philosophy, and human experience, influencing literature and cultures across the globe.

Interesting Tidbits:

• Farsi influenced numerous languages, leaving its mark on vocabulary and even grammar in Turkish, Urdu, and Hindi.

• Some familiar English words like "pajamas," "checkmate," and "caravan" have Persian origins.

• Persian rugs, a global luxury item, owe their name to Farsi.

3. Saudi Arabia is a country located on the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East. Here are some key points about Saudi Arabia:

1. Geography and Capital:

   - Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East, covering most of the Arabian Peninsula.

   - Riyadh is the capital and largest city.

2. Government:

   - It is an absolute monarchy with the king serving as both the head of state and government.

   - As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the ruling monarch.

3. Religion:

   - Islam, particularly the Sunni branch of Islam, is the state religion.

   - The two holiest cities in Islam, Mecca, and Medina, are located in Saudi Arabia.

4. Economy:

   - Saudi Arabia has one of the world's largest proven oil reserves, and oil exports have historically been a significant contributor to its economy.

   - In recent years, there has been an emphasis on diversifying the economy through initiatives such as Vision 2030, which aims to reduce the country's dependence on oil.

5. Culture:

   - The culture is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions.

   - The conservative interpretation of Islam influences various aspects of daily life, including dress code and social interactions.

   - Arabic is the official language.

6. Human Rights and Social Issues:

   - Saudi Arabia has faced international scrutiny for its human rights record, particularly regarding issues such as freedom of expression and treatment of women.

   - There have been ongoing efforts to introduce social reforms, including changes to some restrictive laws and regulations.

7. Diplomacy:

   - Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in regional politics and is a key ally of the United States.

   - It has been actively involved in regional conflicts and diplomacy, including issues related to Yemen, Iran, and the Arab-Israeli conflict.

8. Tourism:

   - Saudi Arabia has opened up to international tourism, promoting historical and cultural sites to attract visitors.

   - Tourist visas are now available for visitors from various countries.

Please note that developments may have occurred since my last knowledge update in January 2022, and it's advisable to check more recent sources for the latest information on Saudi Arabia.

4.FASTag:FASTag is an electronic toll collection system implemented in India to facilitate seamless and efficient toll payment on highways. Here are key details about FASTag:

1. Introduction:

   - FASTag is an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) sticker that is affixed to the windshield of vehicles.

   - It uses radio-frequency technology to enable automatic toll payments without the need for stopping at toll booths.

2. How It Works:

   - The RFID technology in FASTag allows for automatic deduction of toll charges as a vehicle passes through a toll plaza.

   - The toll amount is directly debited from the prepaid or linked savings account/wallet associated with the FASTag.

3. Issuance and Activation:

   - FASTags can be obtained through various banks, authorized dealers, and online platforms.

   - Users need to link their FASTag to their vehicle's registration number and a prepaid account or a linked savings account for automatic toll payments.

4. Benefits:

   - Time Efficiency: FASTag helps in reducing congestion at toll plazas by enabling a faster and more streamlined toll collection process.

   - Cashless Transactions: It promotes a cashless payment system, reducing the need for physical currency at toll booths.

   - Convenience: Users can manage and recharge their FASTag accounts online, providing convenience and transparency.

5. Mandatory Implementation:

   - The Indian government has made FASTag mandatory for all vehicles, both private and commercial, on national highways.

   - The implementation aims to promote digital payments, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance overall toll collection efficiency.

6. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

   - Non-compliance with the FASTag mandate may result in the imposition of penalties, including double toll charges at the toll plaza.

7. Integration with Toll Plazas:

   - Toll plazas across national highways are equipped with electronic toll collection systems that are integrated with FASTag technology.

8. Availability:

   - FASTags are available through various banks, toll plazas, and online platforms. Users can link their FASTags to their bank accounts or digital wallets.

It's important to note that the specifics of the FASTag system, including fees, regulations, and available features, may evolve over time, and users should refer to the latest guidelines and updates from the relevant authorities.

4.Alkire Foster methodology: for measuring multidimensional poverty

Key Concepts:

• Multidimensional Poverty: Recognizes that poverty encompasses more than just income, considering factors like education, health, and living standards.

• Dual Cutoffs: Determines who is deprived in each dimension and who is considered multidimensionally poor overall.

• Dimensions: The specific aspects of poverty being measured (e.g., education, health, living standards).

• Indicators: The specific measures used to assess deprivation in each dimension (e.g., years of schooling, access to healthcare).

• Deprivation Scores: Reflect the number of dimensions in which a person is deprived.

• Poverty Cutoff: Determines the minimum number of deprivations a person must experience to be considered multidimensionally poor.

• Adjusted Headcount Ratio (M0): The main AF measure, capturing both the percentage of people who are multidimensionally poor and the intensity of their poverty.

Steps in the AF Methodology:

1. Identify Dimensions and Indicators: Select relevant dimensions and indicators based on context and priorities.

2. Set Deprivation Cutoff for Each Indicator: Determine the minimum level of achievement for each indicator to avoid deprivation.

3. Assign Weights (Optional): Assign weights to dimensions if some are considered more important than others.

4. Calculate Deprivation Scores: Count the number of dimensions in which each person is deprived.

5. Apply Poverty Cutoff: Identify those who are multidimensionally poor based on the poverty cutoff (e.g., deprived in at least 30% of dimensions).

6. Calculate Adjusted Headcount Ratio (M0): Multiply the percentage of people who are multidimensionally poor by the average intensity of their poverty (average deprivation score).

Advantages of AF Methodology:

• Captures Multiple Dimensions: Reflects a broader understanding of poverty beyond income.

• Identifies Overlapping Deprivations: Recognizes that people often experience multiple deprivations simultaneously.

• Flexible: Can be adapted to different contexts and priorities.

• Policy-Relevant: Provides information on specific dimensions of poverty to guide targeted interventions.

Applications:

• Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): Measures poverty in over 100 countries using the AF methodology.

• National and Subnational Poverty Measures: Used in many countries to track progress and inform poverty reduction strategies.

• Research and Policy Analysis: Used to assess the impact of policies and programs on multidimensional poverty.

5.Lithium Blocks of Argentina: India on Monday announced the acquisition of five lithium blocks in Argentina. The Mines Ministry, through Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL), signed an agreement with Argentina's State-owned CAMYEN

Lithium, often called ‘white gold’, forms the cornerstone of the country’s transition to green energy options. It is used across various categories, including energy storage solutions, batteries for mobile phones, and in EVs. 

Argentina is part of the world’s “Lithium Triangle”, along with Chile and Bolivia, and the three together have more than half of the world’s total lithium resources.

Argentina also has the distinction of having the second-largest lithium resources, third-largest lithium reserves and forth-largest production in the world.

Lithium is a chemical element with the symbol Li and atomic number 3. Here are some key points about lithium:

1. Chemical Properties:

   - Lithium is a soft, silver-white alkali metal.

   - It belongs to Group 1 of the periodic table, making it an alkali metal along with elements like sodium, potassium, and cesium.

2. Occurrence:

   - Lithium is a relatively rare element in the Earth's crust.

   - It is found in various minerals, including spodumene, lepidolite, petalite, and lithium-containing clays.

3. Extraction:

   - Lithium is typically extracted from lithium-containing minerals through processes like spodumene processing or extraction from lithium-rich brines.

4. Applications:

   - Lithium is widely used in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which power various electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles.

   - It is used in certain types of non-rechargeable batteries, including lithium-thionyl chloride batteries.

   - Lithium compounds are used in the production of glass, ceramics, and lithium grease.

5. Medicinal Use:

   - Lithium salts, such as lithium carbonate, are used as mood-stabilizing medications in the treatment of bipolar disorder.

6. Nuclear Applications:

   - Lithium-6 is used in the production of tritium, a component of some nuclear weapons.

7. Lightest Metal:

   - Lithium is the lightest metal and the least dense solid element under standard conditions.

8. Reactivity:

   - It is highly reactive and can react with water, though not as vigorously as some other alkali metals.

9. Global Production:

   - The major producers of lithium include countries like Australia, Chile, and China.

10. Growing Demand:

   - The demand for lithium has increased significantly with the rise in popularity of electric vehicles and the growing use of portable electronic devices.

11. Challenges:

   - Despite its importance in batteries, there are challenges associated with lithium production, including environmental concerns related to extraction processes and the need for sustainable sourcing.

Lithium's unique properties make it a critical element in modern technology, especially in the development of batteries for various applications, contributing to the advancement of clean energy solutions and portable electronics.

Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL), is a Joint Venture Company among the three Government Enterprises: National Aluminium Company Ltd. (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) and Mineral Exploration & Consultancy Limited (MECL), in the ratio of 40:30:30, under the aegis of Ministry of Mines, Government of India, formed to ensure supply side assurance of critical and strategic minerals and mineral security of the nation. KABIL was Incorporated on 08.08.2019 under the companies Act 2013.

Authorized capital of the KABIL is INR. 500 crore & Paid up capital is INR. 100 crore as equity investment by the three promoters in the JVC.

6.Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, inaugurated the unique CO2 based Air Conditioning plant at INS Shivaji on 17 Jan 24. The AC Plant is first of its kind and is set to replace HFC (Hydro Fluro Carbons) and HCFC( Hydro Chloro Fluro Carbons) based air conditioning systems onboard ships. This step is in line with India's commitment towards Kigali Agreement of 2016 to phase down HFC and HCFC based synthetic refrigerants from 2028 onwards and Transcritical CO2 based air conditioning plant is the first step towards it. This technology aligns with the global efforts to combat climate change and supports Indian Navy's initiative towards sustainable green alternatives. 

This air conditioning plant is equipped with advanced digital control systems and smart technology integration economising manpower for running the plant. The system has been developed in collaboration with IISc, Bangalore, a testimony of channelising the Defence-Academia synergy towards induction of a futuristic technology in the Armed Forces. The success of this technology will not only offer state-of-the-art machinery to the Navy but has the potential for a wider application into the commercial air-conditioning & refrigeration market.

The Kigali Amendment was indeed adopted in October 2016 during a meeting in Kigali, Rwanda, and it is an extension of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of various substances responsible for ozone depletion, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

Key points about the Kigali Amendment include:

1. Objective:

• The primary goal of the Kigali Amendment is to phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases with a high global warming potential.

1. HFCs and Climate Change:

• While HFCs do not harm the ozone layer, they are powerful contributors to climate change. The Kigali Amendment addresses the need to control HFCs as part of global efforts to mitigate climate change.

1. Phasing Down HFCs:

• The amendment outlines a schedule for developed and developing countries to gradually reduce their HFC consumption and production.

1. Implementation:

• The Kigali Amendment builds upon the successful model of the Montreal Protocol and includes provisions for financial and technological assistance to developing countries to support their transition away from high-GWP (Global Warming Potential) HFCs.

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