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2023 08 21

Table of Contents:

GS Paper 1:

  1. Kashmir Issue: Historical aspects

GS Paper 2:

  1. Admitting new members to BRICS

GS Paper 3:

  1. RBI’s State of the Economy report
  2. Impact of Geopolitics on Clean Energy Targets

Content for Mains Enrichment

  1. Jal Sansads

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

  1. Offshore wind power projects
  2. Infrastructure Debt Fund-NBFCs (IDF-NBFCs)
  3. The issue with turmeric supplements
  4. Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP)
  5. Gene-edited mustard
  6. COP28: Gabon wraps up $500 million debt-for-nature swap
  7. Definition of Green Hydrogen
  8. Acoustic Side Channel Attacks

Mapping

  1. Trinidad and Tobago

Kashmir Issue: Historical aspects

GS Paper 1

Syllabus: Post-Independent India

Source: IE

Context: The article delves into the historical complexities of the Kashmir issue, particularly focusing on the events surrounding Hari Singh’s accession to India and the subsequent developments.

Background of Kashmir’s accession to India:

The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, ruled by Maharaja Hari Singh, was faced with a crucial decision as British colonial rule ended in India in 1947. As part of the partition process, princely states were given the choice to join India, Pakistan, or remain independent.

Maharaja Hari Singh’s preference for independence was rooted in his aspiration to maintain a neutral status for Kashmir. However, this choice was challenged by various factors, including the state’s geographical location, its religious and ethnic diversity, and the political pressures of the time.

The role played by Gurdaspur Division:

The division of Gurdaspur, a district that held strategic significance due to its land connectivity to Kashmir, played a pivotal role. The Radcliffe Boundary Commission’s decision to include Gurdaspur in India ensured that there was a viable land route between India and Kashmir, which influenced Hari Singh’s ultimate decision to accede to India.

Tribal incursion:

In 1947, as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated, tribal militias backed by Pakistan invaded Kashmir. Facing a dire security situation, Hari Singh sought India’s military assistance. In return, he agreed to accede to India, formalizing the accession with the signing of the Instrument of Accession.

Why did India approach the United Nations for intervention in Kashmir?

This accession was followed by military intervention by Indian forces to counter the tribal invasion and secure Kashmir. However, the situation continued to be complex.

In January 1948, India brought the Kashmir issue before the United Nations Security Council. India’s contention was that Pakistani infiltrators had occupied parts of Jammu and Kashmir, which had legally acceded to India through the Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh. India argued that these infiltrators should be asked to leave the region to restore the status quo.

What is UNSC decide?

The UN proposed a ceasefire, demilitarization, and a plebiscite to determine the future of the region. However, the UN’s intervention did not lead to a resolution of the Kashmir issue. The ceasefire was implemented, but the plebiscite never took place due to disagreements between India and Pakistan over the preconditions, including the withdrawal of forces from the region.

Article 370:

A significant development was the inclusion of Article 370 in the Indian Constitution on October 17, 1949, which granted Jammu and Kashmir a “special status” within the Union of India. This special status provided the region with certain autonomy in areas like governance, laws, and citizenship, reflecting a unique arrangement that aimed to accommodate the region’s distinct circumstances.

After 1954, as Pakistan strengthened its ties with the United States and both countries signed a military pact, Jawaharlal Nehru, became more resolute against the idea of a plebiscite in Kashmir. Meanwhile, the region of Jammu and Kashmir continued its integration into India’s democratic processes, participating in the drafting of the Indian Constitution and beyond.

Insta Links:

  • Constitutional Challenge to the 2019 Abrogation of Article 370
  • We need civil society engagement in Kashmir

Instrument of Accession

Mains Links:

Throw light on the Instrument of Accession through which Jammu and Kashmir became a part of India. What were the resultant issues that were the outcome of Kashmir’s accession to India? (250 Words)

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Article 370, Kashmir Issue., Today's Article

Admitting new members to BRICS

GS Paper 2

Syllabus: International Relations

Source: BS, TH

Context: India is questioning the criteria for Brics membership and seeks clear guidelines for new entrants

About BRICS:

To Read about the Importance of BRICS for India: Click Here

To Read about the Challenges for BRICS: Click Here

To Read about the Way forward for BRICS: Click Here

The criteria for eligibility in BRICS:

There is no formal application process as such to join BRICS, however, certain eligibility features are considered for new members

  • Economic Size:g., India had suggested a minimum of $400bn GDP for new members
  • Trade Volume:g., India had suggested minimum BRICS trade of $50 billion with the new member
  • Emerging Economy Status: The country should demonstrate characteristics of an emerging economy, including growth potential, industrialization, and development trajectory.
  • Political Stability: Membership often requires the candidate country to have a stable political environment, good diplomatic relations with existing members, and a commitment to democracy.
  • Mutual Consensus: Existing BRICS members usually need to reach a consensus on admitting new members, which is crucial for expansion.

India’s Stance on the Expansion of BRICS:

India has not been very enthusiastic about the expansion of BRICS membership so far, as it is basically an exercise initiated by China to increase its clout in the grouping. “Since almost all other members are now open to the expansion process, including Brazil, which wants Argentina as a member to increase the weight of Latin America, India has accepted to go on the BRICS expansion plan even with some relaxation in GDP and Trade criteria.

How is China influencing BRICS? 

  • Expansion Push: China advocates for the enlargement of BRICS by encouraging more countries to join, thereby extending the group’s global presence.
  • Diplomatic Strategy: Due to limited regional allies, China views BRICS as a means to secure broader diplomatic backing, fostering relationships with countries like North Korea, Cambodia, and Myanmar.
  • Countering Western Dominance: China aims to challenge and diminish Western influence in global affairs through BRICS, using the platform to counterbalance Western-dominated structures.
  • Engagement with Other Groups: China leverages BRICS to engage with other influential groups like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which it largely dominates, further enhancing its sway within BRICS.
  • Data Control Concerns: China’s involvement in the proposed BRICS data cable raises apprehensions regarding its potential control over communication and information flow, leveraging its technological expertise.

Why is the upcoming BRICS summit important for India?
Aspect Importance for India
Geopolitical Significance BRICS discussions are perceived to carry a “counter-western” slant, which aligns with India’s strategic interests.
Post-Pandemic Recovery It provides a platform for BRICS nations to discuss collaborative efforts for global economic recovery and stability.
Military Standoff with China The summit offers opportunities for bilateral talks on the LAC issue.
Preparation for G20 Summit With India hosting the G20 summit shortly after BRICS, the summit provides an occasion for India to secure full attendance from leaders, including those from BRICS member states.
Cooperation from China and Russia India seeks increased cooperation from China and Russia on various issues like the Leader’s declaration content, especially paragraphs on Ukraine, climate change, debt financing, etc.
Expansion of BRICS India aims to ensure consensus on inducting new members, possibly including countries like Argentina, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran.

Conclusion:

BRICS holds economic importance as China and India rank within the top five global economies. It also serves as a potential alternative to Western-dominated global systems, offering a distinct voice in international affairs. The inclusion of new members will give more voice to the BRICS.

Mains Links

Discuss the importance of BRICS for India. (250 Words)

Prelims Links

Consider the following statements: ( UPSC 2016)

  1. New Development Bank has been set up by APEC.
  2. The headquarters of the New Development Bank is in Shanghai.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: B

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, BRICS, Expansion of BRICS, Today's Article

RBI’s State of the Economy report

GS Paper 3

Syllabus: Indian Economy

Source: IE

Context: The State Of The Economy report suggests that despite a global slowdown, the Indian economy has likely maintained healthy growth in the first quarter of the current financial year.

Key findings of the Report:
RBI’s State of the Economy Report Outcomes
GDP Growth The RBI predicts 8% economic growth for April-June.
Global Recovery Status The global economic recovery is slowing down.
Export Situation: Exports decreased by around 16% in July.
Merchandise exports hit a nine-month low of $32.25 billion.
Positive Economic Indicators: Private consumption and investment activity may counterbalance export decline.
E-way bill volumes showed robust growth.
FMCG sales experienced an increase.
Cargo at major ports and railway freight traffic rose in July.
Steel and cement consumption witnessed growth.
Areas of Economic Concern: Automobile sales, except three-wheelers, are low.
More households/individuals are seeking MGNREGA work compared to last year.
Non-oil imports decreased, indicating weak domestic demand.
Uncertainty surrounds the extent of investment increase.
Investment Intention Study: In 2022-23, plans were made for 982 projects worth over Rs 3 lakh crore.
60% of projects funded by banks and institutions are in infrastructure.
Major areas: power, roads, bridges, SEZs, biotech, and IT parks.
Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Karnataka account for over half the project cost.
Future Investment Cycle: Strong bank and corporate balance sheets suggest a positive future for investment.

Inflation:

Retail inflation in India surged to a 15-month high of 7.44% in July, driven primarily by increased prices of vegetables, cereals, pulses, spices, and milk products. The rise in food prices, especially for vegetables, cereals, and dairy products, has contributed to the overall inflationary trend.

What is inflation?

Inflation is the rate at which prices rise. A 2% inflation implies the general price level in April this year was 2% more than what it was in April last year.

Why is inflation bad?

  • It makes commodities costly.
  • It essentially erodes the basis on which one makes economic decisions– meaning it reduces the value of money.

About the report:

A State of the Economy report by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) provides a snapshot of the country’s economic status. It covers topics such as inflation, economic growth, employment, and the bank’s monetary strategies. The report guides RBI’s decisions on interest rates and economic policies while aiding economists, investors, and the public in understanding the economy and making informed decisions.

Insta Links

Practice Questions:

In India, which one of the following is responsible for maintaining price stability by controlling inflation? (UPSC CSE 2022)

  1. Department of Consumer Affairs
  2. Expenditure Management Commission
  3. Financial Stability and Development Council
  4. Reserve Bank of India

Answer: D

  1. Which among the following steps is most likely to be taken at the time of an economic recession? (UPSC CSE 2021)
  2. Cut in tax rates accompanied by an increase in interest rate.
  3. Increase in expenditure on public projects.
  4. Increase in tax rates accompanied by reduction of interest rate.
  5. Reduction of expenditure on public projects.

Answer: B

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August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, RBI’s State of the Economy report, Today's Article

Impact of Geopolitics on Clean Energy Targets

GS Paper 3

Syllabus: Environment Conservation

Source: IE

Context: The move to clean energy is complicated by geopolitical factors, particularly in the case of Indonesia’s nickel reserves, which are crucial for battery manufacturing.

What is geopolitics?

Geopolitics refers to the interplay between geography, political power, and international relations, shaping how nations interact, cooperate, and compete on the global stage.

Impact of geopolitics in a move to clean energy:
Geopolitical Factor Complications for Clean Energy Examples
Resource Dependence Reliance on specific countries for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. China’s dominance in rare earth production impacts clean energy industries relying on these minerals.
Trade Disputes Trade conflicts affecting supply chains for renewable energy components. US-China trade tensions disrupt solar panel and wind turbine supply chains, increasing costs.
Investment Sources Dependence on foreign investment for clean energy infrastructure. Indonesia’s reliance on Chinese investment for nickel processing affects its clean energy plans.
Technology Transfer Reliance on foreign technology for clean energy production. Restrictions on technology transfer impact the development of advanced renewable energy technologies.
Political Stability Instability in producing countries affecting energy security. Political turmoil in oil-producing countries can disrupt global energy markets, impacting renewables.
Sanctions and Embargoes Sanctions limiting access to clean energy technologies and resources. US sanctions on Iran restrict its ability to access international clean energy technologies.
National Interests National interests conflict with global clean energy goals. Countries prioritize fossil fuel industries for economic reasons, hampering renewable energy efforts.
Climate Policy Agendas Differing climate policies affecting international cooperation. Countries with divergent climate policies may resist cooperating on global clean energy initiatives.
Access to Finance Limited access to international funding for renewable projects. Developing countries face challenges in securing financing for large-scale clean energy projects.

Measures that need to be taken:

  • Diversification of Supply Chains: Develop partnerships with multiple countries to ensure a stable and diversified supply of key materials.
  • International Collaboration, strategic alliances and technology transfer
  • Promote Fair Trade Practices: Advocate for fair trade practices and open markets to prevent trade disputes that disrupt clean energy supply chains.
  • Investment in Domestic Production: Provide incentives and subsidies for local manufacturing of renewable energy equipment.
  • Innovation and Research
  • Capacity Building: Support training and knowledge sharing to enhance local expertise in renewable energy technologies.
  • Climate Agreements: Encourage countries to set ambitious renewable energy targets and contribute to reducing carbon emissions.
  • Financial Mechanisms: Facilitate access to green bonds and other sustainable financing options for clean energy initiatives.
  • Sustainable Sourcing Guidelines: Develop and promote guidelines for sustainable sourcing of materials used in renewable energy technologies.

Conclusion: 

In the pursuit of a cleaner and sustainable energy future, the intricate interplay of geopolitics presents both challenges and opportunities. By fostering collaborative partnerships, diversifying supply chains, and investing in research, countries can mitigate geopolitical barriers and pave the way for a greener tomorrow.

Insta Links:

Global Financial Pact on Climate Change: Key Takeaways

Mains Links: 

Discuss the significance of climate finance for developing countries and the key challenges they face in accessing climate finance. (15M)

Prelims Links:

“Climate Action Tracker” which emission reduction pledges of different countries are a: (UPSC 2022)

(a) Database created by a coalition of research organisations
(b) Wing of “International Panel of Climate Change”
(c) Committee under “United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change”
(d) Agency promoted and financed by the United Nations Environment Programme and World Bank.

Answer – A

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Impact of Geopolitics on Clean Energy Targets, Today's Article

Jal Sansads

Content for Mains Enrichment

Source: DTE

Context: Sheela Asopa, an educator in Rajasthan, has established student-led “jal sansads” (water parliaments) in over 150 schools in the Jodhpur district.

Under her guidance, these water parliaments have transformed water practices in schools, focusing on water conservation. Students actively engage in activities such as conducting water audits, spreading awareness through rallies and campaigns, maintaining digital calendars and e-magazines, and implementing rainwater harvesting systems.

Asopa’s inspiration stems from her childhood experiences of observing her mother’s efforts to fetch water.

Over the years, she introduced various water conservation programs in schools, teaching students about plumbing, fixing leaks, and understanding water usage.

In recognition of her efforts, the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti awarded Asopa the National Water Award in June 2023

Usage: Her example can be used in Essay/Ethics/ Geography/ Environment paper.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Jal Sansads, National Water Award, Today's Article

Offshore wind power projects

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: LM

Context: The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has invited bids for surveying sites earmarked for offshore wind power projects in Tamil Nadu, India.

What are offshore wind power projects?

Offshore wind power projects involve generating electricity from wind turbines installed in bodies of water, typically oceans or seas. Offshore wind power offers the advantage of stronger and more consistent wind speeds compared to onshore locations, potentially leading to higher energy generation.

What is the Government Plan?

The government’s plan involves auctioning projects with a capacity of 4 GW (this year) and an additional 3 GW capacity in the subsequent financial year. The projects will be executed using two different models:

  • one with government-backed viability gap funding
  • other involving competitive bidding for site leasing and subsequent development without financial support

Status of Wind Power in India

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Offshore wind power projects, Today's Article

Infrastructure Debt Fund-NBFCs (IDF-NBFCs)

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: ET

Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued revised guidelines for Infrastructure Debt Fund-[NBFCs](https://www.insightsonindia.com/2020/09/23/what-are-non-banking-financial-companies-microfinance-institutions-nbfc-mfis/#:~:text=arising%20from%20it.-,What%20are%20non%2Dbanking%20financial%20companies%2D%20microfinance%20institutions%20(NBFC,5%20crore.) (IDF-NBFCs) with the aim of enhancing their role in financing the infrastructure sector.

About the New norm:

  • According to the new norms, IDF-NBFCs must have a minimum net owned fund (NOF) of Rs 300 crore and a capital-to-risk weighted assets ratio (CRAR) of at least 15%, with a minimum Tier 1 capital of 10%.
  • They will be allowed to raise funds through rupee or dollar-denominated bonds with at least a five-year maturity
  • The requirement for a sponsor for IDF-NBFCs has been removed, and shareholders will now undergo scrutiny similar to other NBFCs.

Aim: These changes are intended to facilitate a greater flow of long-term debt into infrastructure projects and harmonize financing regulations in the infrastructure sector.

What are IDF-NBFCs?

Infrastructure Debt Fund-Non-Banking Financial Companies (IDF-NBFCs) are specialized financial entities registered as NBFCs with the purpose of facilitating the flow of long-term debt into infrastructure projects.

  • They raise funds by issuing bonds, typically with a minimum maturity of five years, to support infrastructure development.
  • These entities play a crucial role in financing large-scale infrastructure projects in sectors like transportation, energy, and telecommunications.

NBFC permitted to:

  • Refinance infrastructure projects that have completed at least one year of commercial operations
  • Finance Toll-Operate-Transfer (TOT) projects as a direct lender.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, IDF-NBFCs, Infrastructure Debt Fund-NBFCs, Today's Article

The issue with turmeric supplements

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a medical advisory regarding the potential risk of liver injury associated with the use of medicines and herbal supplements containing turmeric or its active ingredient, curcumin.

  • The advisory was prompted by 18 reports of liver problems received by TGA, linked to products containing curcuma longa (turmeric) or curcumin.
  • The TGA concluded that there is a “rare risk” of liver injury from taking curcuma longa or curcumin in medicinal forms, particularly for individuals with existing or previous liver issues.

Research from other countries:

  • France’s ANSES reported cases of hepatitis linked to turmeric-containing food supplements. Turmeric’s ability to stimulate bile secretion for digestion is noted, making it advisable for those with bile duct disease to avoid it.

Safety Standards:

  • The European Food Safety Authority suggests an acceptable daily intake of 180 mg of curcumin for a 60 kg adult, while the WHO/Food and Agricultural Organisation recommends 3 mg/kg of body weight.

About Turmeric:

  • Turmeric is a flowering plant, Curcuma longa of the ginger family, it is used as a condiment, dye, drug and cosmetic in addition to its use in religious ceremonies.
  • India is a leading producer and exporter of turmeric in the world. India produces 80% of turmeric in the world.
  • Turmeric has been studied for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as its role in traditional medicine and cuisine.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, GS3, Issue with turmeric supplements, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, Today's Article

Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP)

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB 

Context: The Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, will be launching the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP).

  • This initiative is a significant move towards enhancing road safety by elevating the safety standards of motor vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes in India.
  • The program aims to provide consumers with a tool for comparing the crash safety of different motor vehicles available in the market.
  • Manufacturers can voluntarily submit their cars for testing according to Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) 197.
  • Based on the test results, vehicles will be assigned star ratings for both Adult Occupants (AOP) and Child Occupants (COP) safety.

The program is expected to drive the demand for safer cars, pushing manufacturers to cater to customer safety preferences.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Today's Article

Gene-edited mustard

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE

Context: Researchers in India have made significant advancements in the breeding of mustard plants to create varieties with lower levels of glucosinolates, compounds that contribute to the pungency of mustard oil and meal.

  • The low-glucosinolate mustard lines were developed using gene editing technology known as CRISPR/Cas9.
  • By editing specific genes responsible for transporting glucosinolates to seeds, researchers were able to produce mustard seeds with glucosinolate content below the 30 ppm threshold, making them more acceptable for consumption and livestock feed.

These genetically edited mustard lines are non-genetically modified (non-GM), in contrast to transgenic genetically modified crops. This research holds the potential to enhance domestic oilseed production in India, thereby reducing the country’s dependence on imported vegetable oils.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, biotechnology, Gene-edited mustard, GS3, TECHNOLOGY, Today's Article

Definition of Green Hydrogen

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB

Context: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in India has introduced the Green Hydrogen Standard for the country as part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

The Ministry has defined Green Hydrogen as hydrogen with a well-to-gate emission (including various production processes) of no more than 2 kg CO2 equivalent per kg of hydrogen.

  • This standard specifies the emission limits that hydrogen production must adhere to in order to be classified as ‘Green’, indicating it comes from renewable sources.
  • The standard covers both electrolysis-based and biomass-based methods of producing hydrogen.
  • The standard also outlines that the Ministry will provide a detailed methodology for the measurement, reporting, monitoring, verification, and certification of green hydrogen and its derivatives.
  • The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the Ministry of Power, will be responsible for accrediting agencies to monitor, verify, and certify Green Hydrogen production projects.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Definition of Green Hydrogen, ENVIRONMENT, Green Hydrogen, GS3, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, Today's Article

COP28: Gabon wraps up $500 million debt-for-nature swap

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TOI

Context: Gabon has announced a ground-breaking $500 million debt-for-nature swap, making it the largest such deal in Africa and the second-largest in the world.

  • Debt-for-nature swaps involve indebted developing nations seeking assistance from developed world financial institutions to pay off their debt in exchange for conservation efforts.

Gabon’s debt has been restructured under a Blue Bond, and it has partnered with the Bank of America, the US International Development Finance Corporation (USDFC), and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) for this swap.

  • The swap will refinance $500 million of Gabon’s national debt to fund marine conservation projects.
  • The Blue Bond initiative will generate an expected $163 million in financing, with Gabon committing to spending $5 million annually for the next 15 years on marine conservation.
  • This funding will contribute to advancing conservation goals, protecting endangered species, and supporting Gabon’s sustainable ‘blue economy’.
  • Gabon aims to protect 30% of its lands, freshwater systems, and oceans by 2030.

The initiative builds on Gabon’s previous efforts, such as its ‘Gabon Bleu’ project, which expanded marine protected areas and made Gabon the first central African nation to establish a marine protected area network.

The country has already created 20 protected areas covering 26% of its ocean territory, and the new funds will further this expansion. The deal aligns with global efforts, such as the high-seas treaty, to protect 30% of the world’s oceans and lands by 2030.

Gabon is a country situated on the west coast of Central Africa. It shares borders with Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, the Republic of the Congo, and the Gulf of Guinea. Covering around 270,000 square kilometres, it features coastal plains, mountains like the Cristal Mountains and the Chaillu Massif, and an eastern savanna.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, COP28: Gabon wraps up $500 million debt-for-nature swap, ENVIRONMENT, GS3, Today's Article

Acoustic Side Channel Attacks

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: A research paper titled “A Practical Deep Learning-Based Acoustic Side Channel Attack on Keyboards” published with the support of Durham University’s ethics committee reveals that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be utilized to decipher passwords by analysing the sound produced by keystrokes.

  • This method, known as Acoustic Side Channel Attacks (ASCA), exploits the acoustic signals of keyboard clicks to interpret typed information.
  • Despite being around for decades, the advancement of AI and deep learning has heightened the risks associated with ASCAs.
  • The accuracy of ASCAs has been demonstrated through experiments, achieving up to 95% accuracy in recognizing keystrokes from various sources like nearby phones and laptop keyboards.

The paper emphasizes that users can adopt defence strategies, such as altering typing techniques, using touch-based typing, employing stronger passwords with varied cases and avoiding easily predictable phrases, to mitigate the threat of ASCAs.

About Acoustic Side-Channel Attacks: 

An Acoustic Side Channel Attack (ASCA) is a type of cybersecurity attack that exploits sound or acoustic signals to gather sensitive information.

In the context of computer security, a side channel attack refers to a method where an attacker targets unintended information leakage or signals emitted by a system, rather than directly attacking the cryptographic algorithms themselves.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Acoustic Side Channel Attacks, Cyber attacks, GS3, INTERNAL SECURITY, Today's Article

Trinidad and Tobago

Mapping

Source: ET

India and Trinidad and Tobago have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to share India Stack, a collection of open APIs and digital public goods designed to facilitate identity, data, and payment services on a large scale.

Trinidad and Tobago is a country located in the southernmost part of the Caribbean. It comprises two main islands, Trinidad and Tobago, along with several smaller islands. It is known for its distinctive Creole traditions and cuisines.

August 21, 2023 /21 August 2023, Today's Article, Trinidad and Tobago