Israel-Iran Conflict

Syllabus: International Relations , GS Paper 2
Source: NDTV

Israel has launched “Operation Rising Lion,” a full-scale military offensive against Iran, targeting its nuclear and missile infrastructure. This action follows the IAEA’s declaration that Iran has violated its nuclear safeguard agreement.

 Israel-Iran Conflict:

• Foundational Rivalry:
  The hostility began after Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, which established a theocratic regime with a strong anti-Israel ideology.
• Proxy Network Strategy:
  Iran supports Hezbollah (Lebanon), Hamas (Gaza), Houthis (Yemen), and various Iraqi militias to surround Israel indirectly, avoiding direct warfare.
• Previous Israeli Strikes:
  Israel attacked nuclear sites in Iraq (1981) and Syria (2007). Iran has remained a more complex and sensitive target.
• Abraham Accords Outcome:
  Iran’s growing threat encouraged Sunni Arab countries to normalize relations with Israel, temporarily pushing the Palestinian issue aside.
• October 7 Fallout:
  Iran-backed Hamas launched a major offensive from Gaza, which escalated regional tensions and highlighted Iran’s proxy warfare strategy.

Causes Behind the Recent Confrontation:

• IAEA Resolution:
  The IAEA found traces of enriched uranium at undeclared sites, prompting it to declare Iran in non-compliance with the 1974 Safeguards Agreement.
• Breakdown of Nuclear Talks:
  US-Iran negotiations in Oman stalled due to disagreements over uranium enrichment. Israel feared Iran was exploiting diplomatic gaps.
• Shift in Israeli Strategy:
  Israel concluded that attacking Iran’s proxies was insufficient and chose to directly target Tehran.
• Domestic Politics in Israel:
  Under political pressure, PM Netanyahu used the security crisis to avoid elections and consolidate power.
• Strategic Timing:
  The offensive came before the expiry of nuclear deal sanctions (October 18), potentially blocking Western diplomatic outreach.

IAEA Decision and Its Implications:

• Non-Compliance Declaration:
  The IAEA expressed grave concern over Iran’s lack of transparency at sites like Lavisan-Shian, Varamin, and Turquzabad.
• Statutory Action:
  This marks the 7th time the IAEA has declared a country non-compliant under Article XII.C, opening the door for UNSC action.
• Sanctions Possibility:
  European nations may initiate snapback sanctions under the JCPOA, set to expire in October.
• Iran’s Reaction:
  Tehran condemned the resolution, threatened to withdraw from the NPT, and began new underground enrichment operations.
• Upcoming IAEA Report:
  The August report by IAEA Director Rafael Grossi is expected to flag further non-compliance if Iran remains uncooperative.

Consequences of the Israel-Iran Conflict:

Global Implications:

• Oil Price Shock:
  Tensions near the Strait of Hormuz (transit point for 20% of global oil) could destabilize energy markets worldwide.
• US Strategic Dilemma:
  The US must balance distancing itself from Israel's offensive while protecting its own regional assets.
• Risk of Nuclear Proliferation:
  Iran's potential exit from the NPT may trigger a nuclear arms race in West Asia.

Regional Impact:

• Middle East Destabilization:
  Nations like Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon could face increased drone strikes and proxy escalations.
• Collapse of Peace Dialogues:
  Ongoing Iran-US talks in Muscat and efforts for a two-state solution may collapse.
• Rise of Armed Militias:
  Groups like the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and Houthis might retaliate against Israel or US military bases.

Impact on India:

• Risk to Diaspora:
  Over 8 million Indians live in West Asia. War may endanger their safety and complicate evacuation.
• Energy Security Threat:
  60% of India’s crude oil comes through the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions could trigger inflation.
• Diplomatic Tightrope:
  India’s strong ties with both Israel and Iran require careful balancing amidst sanctions and conflict.

Conclusion:

The Israel-Iran conflict has reignited fears of a major regional war, with deep global and economic repercussions. Diplomatic breakdowns, proxy warfare, and nuclear brinkmanship threaten peace and stability. Only de-escalation and multilateral diplomacy can avert irreversible damage.

India’s First Solar Waste Playbook

Syllabus: Pollution , GS Paper 3
Source: Down To Earth (DTE)

Context:

On June 4, 2025, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) released draft guidelines for the management of solar photovoltaic (PV) waste under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.

About CPCB’s First Solar Waste Playbook:

What is Solar Waste?

Solar waste refers to discarded solar PV modules, panels, or cells—either from end-of-life use or manufacturing defects. These are now classified as CEEW 14 under the E-Waste Rules.

• India may produce over 34,600 tonnes of solar waste by 2030 due to rapid installation of solar systems (rooftop, floating, and ground-mounted).

Legal & Policy Framework – E-Waste Rules, 2022:

• Coverage: Solar waste is regulated under Chapter V of the E-Waste Rules.
• Exemption: Solar panels are exempted from Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) recycling targets till 2034–35.
• Obligations: Producers must:
  • Register with CPCB
  • File annual returns
  • Set up collection systems
  • Follow CPCB Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Hazard Classification: Solar waste contains toxic elements like cadmium, lead, arsenic, gallium, and tellurium.

Challenges of Solar Waste Management in India:

Environmental Risks:

• Heavy metals may leach into soil or groundwater or release toxic fumes when burned or improperly dumped.
  Example: Lead and cadmium are severe water pollutants.

Health Hazards:

• Unsafe handling in the informal sector may cause respiratory, skin, or neurological issues.

Data Deficiency:

• No granular data on:
  • Total waste volumes
  • Recycling infrastructure
  • Informal disposal practices

Infrastructure Gaps:

• Very few certified recyclers with the capability to extract and recycle silver, silicon, and polymers from PV modules.

Unregulated Storage:

• Open stacking increases the risk of fires, breakage, and environmental contamination.

Implications of Solar Waste:

On People:

• Health Hazards to Informal Workers:
  Toxic exposure during dismantling (e.g., to lead, cadmium, arsenic) can cause major health issues.
  Example: Informal units in Gujarat and Maharashtra lack safety norms.
• Community-Level Pollution:
  Improper disposal near farms or residences can contaminate local air, water, and soil, affecting health and livelihoods.
  Example: Dumping near water bodies may cause birth defects and cancer risks.

On Government:

• Regulatory Gaps:
  Absence of a dedicated solar waste policy causes confusion under existing hazardous waste laws.
  Example: CPCB’s 2025 draft aims to plug policy loopholes in EPR for solar.
• Damaged Global Reputation:
  Poor waste management can undermine India’s green image and violate SDGs.
  Example: India may face scrutiny under UNFCCC and SDG 12 (responsible consumption).

On Environment:

• Soil and Groundwater Contamination:
  Toxic leachates from selenium, tellurium, cadmium contaminate soil and aquifers.
  Example: Cadmium telluride in soil can persist for years.
• Air Pollution from Burning Panels:
  Burning polymer back-sheets emits hazardous gases like dioxins and furans.
  These are carcinogenic and banned under the Stockholm Convention.

Solutions and Key Measures from Draft Guidelines:

1. Safe Storage Infrastructure:
   • Covered, dry, ventilated areas with impervious flooring.
   • Stack only up to 20 layers or 2 metres high.
2. Collection & Take-Back Mechanisms:
   • Mandatory take-back programs by producers.
   • Must include helplines, pickup logistics, and consumer databases.
3. Transportation Standards:
   • Covered trucks; prefer hazardous waste-compliant vehicles.
   • Must follow the Hazardous Waste Rules, 2016.
4. Labeling & Inventory:
   • Containers should be clearly labelled by solar waste type.
   • Regular inspections and inventory audits are mandatory.
5. Emergency & Fire Safety:
   • Fire protection systems, emergency exit routes, and ERP protocols in storage zones.
6. Public Participation:
   • CPCB is inviting public comments till June 25, 2025 to ensure inclusive policymaking.

Conclusion:

India’s rapid progress in solar energy must be balanced with responsible solar waste management. The CPCB’s draft guidelines are a timely step toward a circular economy approach, promoting safe, scientific, and inclusive handling of solar waste.
Implementation and compliance will determine India’s ability to align clean energy goals with ecological responsibility.

Y-Break

The Union AYUSH Minister highlighted the success of the Modi government in institutionalizing Yoga globally, with a special focus on the Y-Break protocol for improving workplace wellness.

• What is Y-Break ?
  Y-Break is a 5-minute guided Yoga module developed by the Ministry of AYUSH to promote mental and physical well-being and boost productivity among office workers.
• Purpose:
  • Helps working professionals de-stress, refresh, and refocus during office hours.
  • Aims to integrate yoga-based wellness practices in organizational culture.

Key Components of Y-Break:

1. Pranayama (Breathwork):
   • Nadi Shodhana Pranayama – Calms the nervous system and balances breath.
   • Bhramari Pranayama – Induces mental clarity and calm.
2. Asana (Postures):
   • Tadasana, Urdhva Hastasana – Improves posture and stretches muscles.
   • Skandha Chakra, Utkatasana, Kati Chakrasana – Enhances spinal flexibility and strength.
   • Ardhachakrasana, Prasarita Padottanasana – Increases balance and flexibility.
3. Dhyana (Meditation):
   • Promotes inner peace, focus, and emotional stability.

Significance:

• Encourages mental and physical wellness in the workspace.
• Supports preventive healthcare and stress management.
• Enhances India’s role as a global leader in Yoga diplomacy.
• Promotes a culture of integrative health in institutions and governance.

Relevance in UPSC Exam:

GS Paper 2 – Governance & Social Justice

• Role of Ministry of AYUSH in public health promotion.
• Workplace wellness as part of government initiatives.

GS Paper 4 – Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

• Application of emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and wellness in public administration.
• Role of such practices in ethical decision-making and stress control.

Black Box

The tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner near Ahmedabad has highlighted the importance of black boxes in aviation crash investigations.

What is a Black Box?

• It refers to two critical recording devices in aircraft:
  1. Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR): Records all conversations, alarms, and ambient sounds inside the cockpit.
  2. Flight Data Recorder (FDR): Records vital flight data – speed, altitude, engine status, etc. (up to 3,500 parameters for 25 hours).

Historical Background:

• 1930s: François Hussenot (France) developed early photo-film-based data recorders.
• 1953–54: Dr. David Warren (Australia) developed modern FDR after investigating mysterious crashes.
• 1960: Use of CVR & FDR became mandatory in commercial aircraft.
• 1990s: Shift from magnetic tapes to solid-state memory for higher durability.

Working Mechanism:

• CVR: Captures voice data including pilot conversations, radio communications, alarms, and ambient cockpit noise.
• FDR: Collects detailed data on aircraft performance and trajectory, storing it in rugged memory units.

Design & Durability:

• Made with titanium or steel casings to resist:
  • Temperatures up to 1,100°C
  • High G-force crashes
  • 30 days underwater
• Emit locator beacons to assist search and recovery teams.

Why is a Black Box Orange?

• Though called a "black box", it's painted bright orange with reflective strips to aid in visibility post-crash.
• The name comes from old film-based devices kept in light-proof “black” boxes—not from its color.

Modern Innovations:

• Combined Recorders: Integrate CVR & FDR to meet ICAO’s 25-hour voice recording requirement.
• Automatic Deployable Recorders: Eject on impact and float, transmitting location via ELT (Emergency Locator Transmitter).
• Satellite Data Streaming: Being tested to prevent data loss in oceanic or remote crashes by transmitting flight data in real-time.

Relevance in UPSC Exam:

GS Paper 3 – Science & Tech, Disaster Management

• Application of aviation safety technologies
• Crisis response, investigation mechanisms, and innovation in public safety tech

Essay/Case Studies:

• Technological preparedness for disaster recovery
• Innovation in public safety infrastructure

These examples provide case-based, factual enrichment for Mains answers in ethics, governance, and technology safety.