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    World-Class Education Key to Making India a Developed Nation by 2047: NITI Aayog

    OWSA Staff
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    World-Class Education Key to Making India a Developed Nation by 2047: NITI Aayog

    The report aligns with the National Education Policy — 2020, which aims to double student enrolment in higher education to nearly 9 crore by 2035. Of these, about 7 crore students will be enrolled in State Public Universities.

    NITI Aayog on Tuesday, released a policy report titled Expanding Quality Higher Education through States and State Public Universities, marking a significant step in the evolution of India’s higher education landscape. This report is the first of its kind, focusing specifically on the role of State Public Universities (SPUs) in enhancing the quality of higher education.

    At the launch event on Monday, NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Beri, Member (Education) Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul, CEO BVR Subramaniam, Department of Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi, and Association of Indian Universities (AIU) Secretary General Dr. Pankaj Mittal were present. NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subramaniam underscored the importance of world-class education in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

    The report provides a detailed quantitative analysis of higher education quality, financing, governance, and employment trends over the last decade. It is based on extensive discussions with state government officials from over 20 states and union territories, vice-chancellors and senior academics from 50 SPUs, and chairpersons of several state higher education councils.

    NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Beri emphasized that globally, public universities set standards of excellence, as seen in countries like the US and Brazil. He stressed that while India boasts institutions of national importance such as IITs, SPUs should also aim for higher standards to align with global benchmarks.

    NITI Aayog’s role, as directed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is to generate evidence-based policy recommendations while implementation remains the responsibility of ministries. The report outlines crucial reforms to be undertaken by the central and state governments to improve the quality of higher education in India.

    Leveraging India’s Demographic Advantage

    NITI Aayog Member Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul highlighted the need for urgent reforms in SPUs, given that they account for 80 per cent of India’s higher education system. He stressed that upgrading SPUs is essential for creating a knowledge-based economy and preparing India’s youth to contribute effectively to the nation’s development goals.

    The report aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to double student enrolment in higher education to nearly 9 crore by 2035. Of these, about 7 crore students will be enrolled in SPUs, making it crucial for these institutions to transition from mere access providers to hubs of world-class education.

    India holds the distinction of having the world’s largest working-age population and the second-largest higher education system. This demographic advantage, expected to last for two more decades, positions the country to become a global talent and innovation hub.

    NEP 2020 provides a transformative roadmap for India’s education sector. While Central Universities and Institutes of National Importance excel in cutting-edge research, the 495 SPUs and their 46,000 affiliated institutions, which cater to over 81 per cent of total student enrollment, play a crucial role in democratizing higher education access. Given their vast reach, ensuring that SPUs deliver high-quality education is a shared national responsibility.

    Challenges and Policy Recommendations

    The report is divided into seven chapters, tracing the history, achievements, and current status of India’s higher education sector. It provides insights from stakeholder consultations and identifies four major thematic challenges:

    1. Quality: Enhancing research standards, pedagogy, curriculum development, digitalization, and internationalization of education.
    2. Funding & Financing: Ensuring sustainable government funding, diversifying revenue sources, reforming taxation and utility payments, and enhancing faculty recruitment and retention budgets.
    3. Governance: Strengthening institutional governance, streamlining administrative structures, and building faculty and administrator capacities.
    4. Employability: Enhancing skill development, improving academia-industry collaboration, and increasing employment opportunities for graduates.

    The report outlines nearly 80 policy recommendations under 12 sub-themes, supported by 125 performance indicators. These recommendations include short, medium, and long-term implementation strategies to improve the effectiveness of higher education institutions.

    SPUs have played a crucial role in expanding access to affordable higher education, especially in remote and underserved regions. However, to meet future demands and global competition, they must undergo a paradigm shift towards excellence.

    The report underscores that India’s youth, accounting for 50 per cent of the population, will be the driving force behind the country’s transition into a developed nation. By investing in higher education reforms, the government can ensure that young Indians are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and innovation-driven mindset required to thrive in the global economy.

    The findings of this report reaffirm that India’s path to becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 is intrinsically linked to the quality of its education system. With strategic interventions and collective efforts from the government, academia, and industry stakeholders, SPUs can be transformed into world-class institutions that will shape the future of India and its global standing in education, research, and innovation.

    Google’s Willingness to Develop AI for Weapons Raises Concerns: Human Rights Watch

    OWSA Contributor
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    Google’s Willingness to Develop AI for Weapons Raises Concerns: Human Rights Watch

    Google now states that its AI products will “align with” human rights, but without explaining how this alignment will be ensured. The lack of specificity raises concerns about potential ethical lapses and accountability in AI deployment.

    Google’s revised Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy signals a worrying shift in the company’s stance on the development of AI for military applications, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has warned. This policy change, HRW argues, underscores the inadequacy of voluntary guidelines in governing AI ethics and the need for enforceable legal frameworks.

    Previously, says Anna Bacciarelli, Senior Researcher with HRW, Google’s Responsible AI Principles, established in 2018, explicitly prohibited the company from developing AI “for use in weapons” or for applications where “the primary purpose is surveillance.” These principles also committed Google to avoiding AI development that could cause “overall harm” or that “contravenes widely accepted principles of international law and human rights.”

    However, in its latest policy revision, Google has removed these clear restrictions. Instead, the company now states that its AI products will “align with” human rights, but without explaining how this alignment will be ensured. The lack of specificity raises concerns about potential ethical lapses and accountability in AI deployment.

    HRW has strongly criticized this shift, warning that stepping away from explicitly prohibited uses of AI is dangerous. “Sometimes, it’s simply too risky to use AI, a suite of complex, fast-developing technologies whose consequences we are discovering in real time,” Anna Bacciarelli stated. The organization argues that AI systems, particularly in military applications, can be unpredictable and prone to errors that result in severe consequences, including harm to civilians.

    AI Use in Warfare

    Google’s decision to remove key restrictions from its AI policy highlights the limitations of voluntary corporate ethical guidelines, HRW asserts. “That a global industry leader like Google can suddenly abandon self-proclaimed forbidden practices underscores why voluntary guidelines are not a substitute for regulation and enforceable law,” Anna Bacciarellisaid.

    HRW further emphasised that existing international human rights laws and standards already apply to AI technologies, particularly in military contexts. However, regulation is crucial in translating these norms into practice and ensuring compliance. Without enforceable legal mechanisms, companies like Google may prioritize market competition over ethical considerations.

    The revised AI policy also raises concerns about the broader implications of AI use in warfare. Militaries worldwide are increasingly integrating AI into combat systems, where reliance on incomplete or faulty data can lead to flawed decision-making, increasing the risk of civilian casualties. HRW warns that digital tools powered by AI can complicate accountability in battlefield decisions, making it harder to assign responsibility for actions that could have life-or-death consequences.

    Need Stronger Regulations

    Google’s shift in policy marks a significant departure from its previous stance. The company has gone from refusing to develop AI for weapons to now expressing a willingness to engage in national security ventures that may involve AI applications in defence. This shift aligns with Google’s executives describing a “global competition … for AI leadership” and arguing that AI should be “guided by core values like freedom, equality, and respect for human rights.”

    However, HRW contends that these statements ring hollow if the company simultaneously deprioritizes considerations for the impact of powerful new technologies on human rights. The organization warns that such an approach could lead to a “race to the bottom” in AI ethics, where companies prioritize technological advancements over fundamental rights protections.

    The stakes in AI development, particularly for military applications, could not be higher. The use of AI in warfare presents unprecedented ethical and legal challenges, with significant risks to civilians and global security. Consistent with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, HRW asserts that all companies, including Google, must meet their responsibility to respect human rights across all their products and services.

    In light of these developments, HRW is calling for stronger regulations to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed responsibly. Governments and international bodies must act swiftly to establish enforceable legal frameworks that prevent AI from being used in ways that could endanger human rights and global security.

    Google’s AI policy change serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by unregulated AI development. As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, the need for comprehensive legal safeguards has never been more urgent.

    Image: Hippopx

    In the Lok Sabha: Government Committed to Addressing Climate Change, Says Minister

    OWSA Staff
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    In the Lok Sabha: Government Committed to Addressing Climate Change, Says Minister

    The latest All India Tiger Estimation (2022) indicates that India’s tiger population has reached 3,682, accounting for 70 per cent of the global wild tiger population. In addition, 33 elephant reserves have been designated to protect these keystone species.

    The Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing environmental and climate change issues through a series of legislative, regulatory, and administrative measures. Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha today, the minister outlined various schemes and initiatives aimed at preserving, conserving, and protecting India’s natural environment while mitigating the effects of pollution and climate change.

    The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) has launched several schemes targeting pollution control, afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management. These initiatives are at various stages of implementation and aim to bolster environmental protection efforts across the country.

    The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), launched in 2019, covers 130 cities across 24 states and Union Territories (UTs). The programme aims to achieve a 40 per cent reduction in particulate matter levels by 2025-26 from 2017-18 levels. A dedicated ‘PRANA’ portal has been developed to provide real-time updates on air quality, enabling data-driven interventions for pollution control.

    The government has introduced a regulatory framework to promote a circular economy in waste management. Under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime, industries are mandated to recycle end-of-life wastes. EPR rules have been notified for plastic waste, tyre waste, battery waste, used oil waste, and e-waste, ensuring sustainable waste disposal and enhancing resource circularity.

    Mangrove Conservation Initiative: MISHTI

    The Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI), launched on World Environment Day, June 5, 2024, is a crucial effort to restore and promote mangrove ecosystems along India’s coastline. So far, 22,561 hectares of degraded mangroves have been restored across 13 states and UTs, with ₹17.96 crore allocated for restoration of 3,836 hectares in six states and UTs.

    The Nagar Van Yojana, implemented by the National Afforestation and Eco-development Board (NAEB), aims to develop 600 Nagar Vans and 400 Nagar Vatikas between 2020-21 and 2026-27. This initiative focuses on increasing urban green cover, enhancing biodiversity, and improving the quality of life in cities.

    The Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative, launched in October 2022, promotes mindful consumption and sustainable lifestyles. It focuses on key areas such as water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction, e-waste management, elimination of single-use plastics, sustainable food systems, and healthy living. Complementing this, the Eco-mark Rules were notified on September 26, 2024, to encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly products.

    On World Environment Day 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (#Plant4Mother)’ campaign, urging citizens to plant trees as a tribute to their mothers and Mother Earth. As part of this effort, 109 crore saplings have been planted as of January 2025, contributing to the goal of 140 crore trees by March 2025.

    Biodiversity Conservation Efforts

    India has significantly expanded its Protected Areas (PAs), from 745 in 2014 to 1,022 in 2025, covering 5.43 per cent of the total geographic area. Community reserves have also increased from 43 in 2014 to 220, indicating growing local participation in conservation efforts.

    The country now has 57 Tiger Reserves, covering 82,836.45 sq km — approximately 2.5 per cent of India’s total geographical area. The latest All India Tiger Estimation (2022) indicates that India’s tiger population has reached 3,682, accounting for 70 per cent of the global wild tiger population. In addition, 33 elephant reserves have been designated to protect these keystone species.

    India has added 59 wetlands to the Ramsar list since 2014, bringing the total to 89 sites covering 1.35 million hectares. India now has the largest Ramsar network in Asia and the third-largest globally. Udaipur and Indore were also recently recognized under the Wetland City Accreditation Scheme.

    India’s Climate Action and Emission Reduction

    India’s commitment to climate action is driven by its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and its long-term net-zero goal by 2070. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) provides a framework for climate initiatives in sectors such as solar energy, energy efficiency, sustainable habitats, water conservation, agriculture, and health.

    The Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP) and the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) have played a crucial role in reducing India’s emission intensity by 36 per cent between 2005 and 2020. As of October 2024, 46.52 per cent of India’s installed electricity generation capacity comes from non-fossil fuel sources, with renewable energy capacity reaching 203.22 GW.

    India’s forest and tree cover has steadily increased, now covering 25.17 per cent of the total geographical area. From 2005 to 2021, an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent has been created, further reinforcing India’s commitment to combat climate change.

    In his written reply, Union Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh emphasized that despite India’s historically low contribution to global emissions, the country remains committed to climate action, sustainable development, and poverty eradication. He reiterated that India’s environmental policies align with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities, as outlined in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.

    With a combination of policy-driven action, large-scale afforestation, enhanced conservation efforts, and a shift toward renewable energy, India continues to make significant strides in environmental protection and climate resilience.

    Closing in on an End to Plastic Pollution

    OWSA Contributor
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    Closing in on an End to Plastic Pollution

    We need to think innovatively regarding chemicals of concern, taking inspiration from existing agreements that protect us from harmful chemicals. We need to ensure that mechanical recycling is uncontaminated by harmful chemicals.

    Inger Andersen

    After two years of talks, we are closer to securing a treaty for the ages. One that hits the problem of plastic pollution hard and protects human, planetary and economic health. 

    A high degree of convergence has been reached in 29 out of 32 articles that are proposed to make up the treaty text. However, three areas require significant further work. Products, including the issue of chemicals. Sustainable production and consumption. Financing, including a financial mechanism and aligning financial flows. 

    There is a strong determination across Member States, across communities, across science, across civil society and across industry to get the treaty done. But a big political and diplomatic push is needed in the coming months, with the engagement of all stakeholders and strong G20 leadership, to lay the ground for success at INC 5.2.

    Businesses have been engaged from the start and have a continued critical role to play, as do non-governmental organizations and other groups. Businesses have been calling for global rules. On Extended Producer Responsibility, which will make it easier for them to do their jobs with efficiency. On chemical additives of concern in plastic products where there are exposure risks. 

    Unless countries and businesses start implementing solutions now the costs will spiral. Plastic leakage to the environment is predicted to grow 50 per cent by 2040. The cost of damages from plastic pollution are predicted to rise as high as a cumulative US$281 trillion between 2016 and 2040.  

    Chemicals of Concern

    And just as costs are growing, so are risks to businesses. Consumers, shareholders and markets are beginning to move. That is the exciting bit. Consumers will vote with their dollars, euros and shillings. Markets will move faster. So, businesses, don’t wait. Don’t risk being left behind. Act now.

    We know what needs to be done. We need to have text that promotes, encourages and ensures a reduction in the production of single-use and short-lived plastics. Policies on Extended Producer Responsibility and recycling targets. We need to think innovatively regarding chemicals of concern, taking inspiration from existing agreements that protect us from harmful chemicals. We need to ensure that mechanical recycling is uncontaminated by harmful chemicals. This is especially the case for locations where mechanical recycling is done with basic technology — often at smaller SME level. We must prevent harmful chemicals in the recycled plastic products.

    We need to design products for refill, reuse, disassembly and recycle. Increase transparency, traceability and disclosures. Invest in environmentally sound waste management. Tackle legacy plastic clean-up. Put in place funding. And more.

    We are getting closer. I am calling for negotiators to focus on the three elements that need work. There are differences, but it is important to come together in the middle of the big tent, while ensuring that the text eliminates plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. 

    The world has already agreed to end plastic pollution. All actors must do their part to deliver this promise. Starting now.

    Source: speech delivered by Inger Andersen at the 2025 annual meeting of the World Economic Forum at Davos, Switzerland.

    WFP, FAO Warn of the Severity of the Climate Crisis and Food Insecurity

    Inter Press Service
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    WFP, FAO Warn of the Severity of the Climate Crisis and Food Insecurity

    On January 28, the World Food Programme (WFP) released an update to their climate change policies detailing the urgency of effective climate action as it relates to worldwide food production.

    By Oritro Karim

    Over the past few years, climate shocks have become more frequent and have devastated economies and agriculture systems, exacerbating widespread malnutrition and hunger. It has become increasingly apparent that the utilization of sustainable agriculture practices and disaster risk management systems are crucial to fulfill growing needs as natural resources continue to dwindle.

    The Paris Agreement, an international treaty which seeks to limit average global temperatures to 2°C, was adopted by the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in 2015. A new analysis conducted by climatologist Professor James Hansen states that due to the rapidly accelerating nature of the climate crisis, previous climate goals are now considered impossible to achieve.

    “The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC) defined a scenario which gives a 50% chance to keep warming under 2°C – that scenario is now impossible. The 2C target is dead, because the global energy use is rising, and it will continue to rise,” said Hansen. He adds that global temperatures are likely to reach 2°C by 2045. It is estimated that this will trigger a rise in sea levels by several meters, the melting of polar caps, and irreversible damage to critical ecosystems around the world.

    Hunger Crisis to Exacerbate

    On January 28, the World Food Programme (WFP) released an update to their climate change policies detailing the urgency of effective climate action as it relates to worldwide food production. This release expands upon the 2017 version, underscoring the international setbacks that have contributed to the worsening climate crisis.

    WFP’s policy update states that these changes will exacerbate the hunger crisis for the most food-insecure populations. Climate-induced disasters, such as heat waves and tropical storms will disproportionately affect women, children, displaced persons, and people with disabilities. It is estimated that rising global temperatures will cause approximately 12.5 million girls to drop out of school, which significantly undermines their capability to cope with food insecurity and malnutrition in their communities.

    On January 27, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released a report titled, Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2024, highlighting the wide scale devastation that the climate crisis had brought upon people in rural communities in Latin America and the Caribbean. Of the countries studied in this analysis, 20 reported facing a high frequency of natural disasters and 14 were considered highly vulnerable to malnutrition and food insecurity. In 2023, it is estimated that climate-induced disasters drove roughly 72 million people into emergency levels of hunger.

    “Climate shocks are making it increasingly difficult for families across Latin America and the Caribbean to produce, transport, and access food. Frequent storms and floods are destroying homes and farmland, while drought and erratic rainfall are wiping out crops before they can grow,” said Lola Castro, WFP’s Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean.

    Overweight and Obesity

    In 2024, the El Niño weather phenomenon triggered extensive heat waves and droughts across Argentina, Mexico, Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, causing an increase in the prices of corn, which is a staple crop. Additionally, heavy rainfall in Ecuador caused a 32 to 54 percent increase in wholesale prices of corn, making food inaccessible for numerous communities.

    “In more rural areas they don’t have a lot of resources to be able to weather a poor harvest. You don’t generate as much income. There’s not as much nutritious food around, so they sell what they can, and then they purchase the cheapest thing that’ll fill them up,” said Ivy Blackmore, a researcher with the University of Missouri who analyzed nutrition and agriculture among rural communities in Ecuador.

    As extreme weather makes healthier food options inaccessible, communities in climate-sensitive areas have gravitated towards cheaper, unhealthier food sources. This is particularly apparent in Latin America, where the cost of a healthy diet is the highest in the world. As a result, child and adult obesity has risen significantly since 2000 in these areas.

    “Overweight and obesity are growing challenges in the region and key risk factors for non-communicable diseases. A healthy diet is the foundation for health, well-being, and optimal growth and development,” said Jarbas Barbosa, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

    According to FAO’s studies, in the Caribbean approximately 50 percent of the population, or 22.2 million people, were unable to afford a healthy and balanced diet.

    In Mesoamerica, roughly 26.3 percent were unable to meet their nutrition needs. South America has the highest numbers, with 113.6 million people unable to afford proper nutrition.

    Immediate Climate Change Adaptation

    WFP’s report concludes that there must be immediate climate change adaptation on a governmental level. WFP is currently working with smallholder farmers and distributors to incorporate more resource-efficient technologies for food production in an effort to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and prevent excessive wastage. Additionally, they are working with women and young people, who have been historically excluded from jobs in marketing and technology, to support socio-economic growth in these communities.

    WFP is aiming to increase government funding for food-security measures, sustainable technologies, and risk management systems. Through the Green Climate Fund and Adaptation Fund and other government-financed investments, WFP seeks to facilitate agriculture practices with a smaller carbon footprint and help the most disaster-vulnerable communities prepare for and face losses from extreme-weather phenomenon.

    This piece has been sourced from Inter Press Service

    The Challenge of the “Carbon Aristocracy”

    Inter Press Service
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    The Challenge of the “Carbon Aristocracy”

    The international community must take action to address the CO2 emissions of the carbon aristocracy as climate change analysis makes it clear that there is no alternative. 

    By Philippe Benoit

    For centuries, innumerable countries were ruled by an entrenched, typically inherited, political class: the “aristocracy.” The term comes from the Ancient Greek words “aristos”, meaning best, and “kratia,” meaning power. As a result of long and hard-fought democratic struggles, these aristocracies have largely dwindled worldwide (albeit, not everywhere).

    Today, we are seeing the emergence of a new aristocracy in another arena: the millionaires whose consumption privileges produce per capita CO2 emissions incompatible with global climate goals. Like the aristocrats of the past, they are spread around the world. Meeting global emissions goals will require addressing the privileges of these worldwide wealthy big emitters, what can be called the “carbon aristocrats.”

    According to Oxfam, the world’s richest 1 per cent are responsible for 15 per cent of global emissions. [By comparison, the world’s poorest 50 per cent produce 8 per cent of global emissions.] This class is mostly made up of millionaires, who now total nearly 60 million globally and are projected to grow in number to over 65 million by 2028 (according to the UBS Wealth Report).

    The United States has the most with 22 million, followed by China at nearly 7 million. Significantly, about 34 per cent of the world’s millionaires live outside the U.S. and Western Europe, including not only China, but also South-East Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. In fact, 10 of the 15 countries with the projected fastest growth in millionaires are emerging economies. Millionaires have increasingly become a worldwide phenomenon.

    Unsurprising Result

    The aristocrats of the past were united by many common behaviours. From the Channel to Moscow, they often spoke French better than their own country’s native tongue. Their children were frequently sent abroad to elite boarding schools in Switzerland and the United Kingdom. They vacationed together on the Cote d’Azur.

    Similarly, the carbon aristocrats of today are united by what they have in common notwithstanding differing nationalities, namely a shared extravagant lifestyle and a corresponding sense of entitlement to emit large amounts of CO2. From private planes to superyachts to multiple mansions, this class of emitters shares consumption patterns that are the reserved domain of the privileged wealthy.

    The unsurprising result is an inordinately high per capita level of CO2 emissions. If all these carbon aristocrats were to gather in their own exclusive nation, it would constitute the second highest CO2 emitting country in the world, behind only China with its 1.4 billion people and more than the United States with its 335 million.

    Significantly, climate operates differently than economics. While the rich and their capital can generate income for the middle-class, workers and even the poor, climate is more akin to a type of zero-sum game.

    The more carbon that the wealthy emit, the less carbon there is available for others consistent with limiting climate change. Like political power which was hoarded by the aristocrats of the past to the detriment of others, the carbon budget is currently being grabbed by this carbon-entitled aristocracy.

    In response, I, like others, have advocated for a carbon tax targeting luxury-consumption related emissions — perhaps better termed a “carbon extravagance tax” to reflect the fundamentally gratuitous character of emissions from superyachts and similar activities in contrast to those generated by essential needs such as producing food and heating homes.

    Formidable opposition

    This analysis builds on the seminal work of Professor Henry Shue who back in 1992 argued for differentiating between emissions from vital subsistence activities and discretionary luxury ones.

    The world has changed a great deal since then. Not only have emissions climbed dramatically over the past 30 years, there are also a lot more millionaires with high per capita emissions.

    As the number of these millionaires continues to grow year upon year, including notably in the emerging economies of the Global South, it has become evident that, more than a country-based or even OECD-oriented measure, what is required is an effort targeting carbon-entitled aristocrats worldwide.

    Notably, some form of internationally coordinated carbon extravagance taxes, regulations and more is needed given the cross-border mobility of the carbon-entitled aristocrats with their planes, superyachts and multiple mansions.

    But the opposition to these types of measures will surely be formidable as these modern carbon aristocrats, like the aristocrats of the past, look to hold on to their privilege … in this case to emit large amounts of CO2. It’s a resistance potentially uniting the very rich and powerful of the United States with the governing elites of China, Saudi Arabia, Russia, India and elsewhere in an anti-regulatory effort.

    Unfortunately, given current emissions trends, there isn’t the time to wait for voluntary action on their part. Rather, the challenge is to change the emissions patterns and, perhaps most importantly, the carbon-entitled mindset of these aristocrats.

    The international community needs to consider initiatives and measures to tackle these CO2 emissions of the carbon aristocracy because the climate change analysis indicates there is no other choice.

    Philippe Benoit is Managing Director at Global Infrastructure Advisory Services 2050 (www.gias2050.com) and publishes extensively on international energy and climate change issues.

    This piece has been sourced from Inter Press Service.

    Sri Lanka Hit by Nationwide Power Outage Amid Grid Failure

    OWSA Contributor
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    Sri Lanka Hit by Nationwide Power Outage Amid Grid Failure

    As of 4:30 PM on Sunday, the electricity authorities reported that 80 per cent of the grid had been restored. Earlier in the day, the Ministry of Energy requested rooftop solar users to temporarily switch off their equipment to assist in stabilising the system.

    A nationwide power failure struck Sri Lanka on Sunday morning, leaving the entire island without electricity. The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) confirmed the blackout, stating that efforts were underway to restore supply as quickly as possible.

    “We are making all efforts to restore supply after the blackout which hit the entire country,” the CEB said in an official statement, offering an apology to affected customers. However, no immediate cause was provided.

    While past blackouts have been attributed to issues such as solar power-induced grid instability, transmission line failures, or the tripping of large coal plants, utility sources indicated that generator tripping was not responsible for this incident. Instead, a more unusual cause has emerged as a potential factor in the outage.

    According to a report by Newswire Lanka, Power Minister Kumara Jayakodi suggested that a monkey may have triggered the failure by interfering with the Panadura grid substation. The Minister stated that the animal’s actions led to a major disruption in the electricity grid, affecting supply across the nation. However, the Ministry of Power and Energy later described the event as an “emergency at the Panadura substation” without confirming the Minister’s claim.

    However, the statement from the Ceylon Electricity Board did not give a reason, but one official said requesting anonymity that solar power has led to grid instability (so-called Sunny day blackouts) in the past as had transmission line failures and tripping of large coal plants.

    Grid being Restored

    Sunday is generally a low-load day, but strong sunlight between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM can create frequency management challenges, making the grid more susceptible to cascading failures, according to industry analysts. Attempts to re-energize the grid can also result in secondary failures, further delaying restoration efforts. In a similar power failure in 2020, engineers were only able to fully restore electricity after sunset due to surges in frequency.

    As of 4:30 PM on Sunday, the CEB reported that 80 per cent of the grid had been restored. Earlier in the day, the Ministry of Energy requested rooftop solar users to temporarily switch off their equipment to assist in stabilising the system.

    The CEB has yet to issue an official explanation for the outage. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates are expected as restoration efforts continue.

    Imran Khan Pens Second Open Letter to Pakistan’s Army Chief Amid Growing Political Tensions

    OWSA Contributor
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    Imran Khan Pens Second Open Letter to Pakistan’s Army Chief Amid Growing Political Tensions

    Imran Khan concluded his letter by calling for a return to democratic principles and urging the military leadership to acknowledge the public’s sentiments rather than suppress dissent.

    Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a second open letter to Army Chief General Asim Munir, continuing his efforts to address the deepening divide between the military and the public. The letter, posted on Khan’s official Twitter account, follows an earlier communication that he claims was met with indifference and “irresponsibility”.

    “I wrote the first open letter to you with the intention of improving the country’s situation, but the response was given with extreme irresponsibility and lack of seriousness,” Khan wrote.

    As the leader of Pakistan’s most popular political party, Khan emphasised his lifelong dedication to serving the nation. “I have dedicated 55 years of my life to public service, and my entire existence revolves around Pakistan,” he stated.

    Khan expressed grave concerns over the widening rift between the military and the public, warning of potentially dangerous consequences. He asserted that if the people were consulted on the six issues he raised in his first letter, 90 per cent would support his stance.

    Return to Democratic Principles

    In his letter, Khan also pointed to a series of troubling events, including the alleged abduction and torture of Adiala Jail Superintendent Akram, who was known for upholding the law. Khan claimed that he, too, has faced mistreatment in custody, including being confined in a “death trap” for 20 days without sunlight. He further alleged that his prison cell had been deprived of electricity for five days, plunging him into total darkness. Additionally, his exercise equipment, television, and newspapers were taken away, and he was denied access to books.

    Khan also raised concerns about being prevented from speaking with his children, stating that he had only been allowed three conversations with them in the past six months, despite court orders affirming his right to do so. He further criticised restrictions on visitation, lamenting that many of his supporters, who travelled long distances to meet him, had been denied access in violation of legal directives.

    In his letter, Khan accused the government of manipulating the judicial system through coercion. He alleged that the 26th Constitutional Amendment was being pushed at gunpoint to tighten control over the judiciary, allowing the appointment of judges favourable to the government. He also accused authorities of pressuring judges to rule against him, claiming that one judge’s blood pressure spiked five times due to the stress, leading to hospitalisation.

    Khan concluded his letter by calling for a return to democratic principles and urging the military leadership to acknowledge the public’s sentiments rather than suppress dissent.

    Anniversary of Disputed Elections

    As political tensions escalate, opposition parties, including Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), took to the streets on February 8 to mark the first anniversary of the country’s general elections, which they claim were rigged. The demonstrations were part of a coordinated effort to demand new elections and protest the alleged manipulation of the electoral process.

    Thousands of PTI supporters gathered in Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, calling for Khan’s release and fair elections. Opposition figures argue that the military orchestrated vote-rigging to ensure a victory for the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and its coalition partner, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). These allegations have been denied by the government, the military, and the Pakistani Election Commission.

    Pakistan’s Supreme Court has dismissed requests to nullify the election results. However, concerns over the vote’s legitimacy have been raised by the United States, Britain, and the European Union, who have urged an independent investigation into the allegations.

    Joining PTI in the February 8 demonstrations were other opposition parties, including the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), and the Muhajir Qaumi Movement-Haqiqi (MQM-H). Addressing his supporters via video message, PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur reiterated claims of widespread electoral fraud and called for immediate corrective measures.

    Arrests and Persecution

    In response to the protests, authorities in Islamabad, Balochistan, and Punjab imposed restrictions on public gatherings, citing security concerns. Despite these measures, PTI supporters continued their demonstrations, with caravans of protestors traveling to Swabi in defiance of the restrictions.

    Over the past two years, numerous PTI leaders and activists have faced arrests and persecution for protesting Khan’s imprisonment and the alleged interference of the military in the political process.

    Khan was sentenced to 14 years in prison last month on fresh corruption charges, a verdict he dismissed as politically motivated. His wife was also convicted and handed a seven-year sentence. The former cricket superstar-turned-politician, now 72, has been in jail since August 2023.

    With mounting pressure from opposition parties and increasing scrutiny from the international community, the political crisis in Pakistan shows no signs of easing. As Khan continues to challenge the military’s role in governance, and his supporters rally for change, the country’s political landscape remains deeply fractured.

    “Extreme violence was unleashed on our unarmed pro-democracy supporters on May 9th (2023) and November 26th (2024),” Khan said in his letter. “Peaceful civilians were directly shot at. Over the past three years, state security agencies have raided the homes of hundreds of thousands of our supporters, arrested over 20,000 of them, abducted and tortured many, and detained thousands on baseless charges for months.”

    In Rajya Sabha: Strengthening Mangrove Conservation Through MISHTI

    OWSA Staff
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    In Rajya Sabha: Strengthening Mangrove Conservation Through MISHTI

    The minister emphasised that the implementation of these regulatory and promotional measures has yielded positive results in enhancing mangrove coverage and resilience.

    The Government of India has reaffirmed its commitment to mangrove conservation through a combination of regulatory and promotional measures. In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, outlined the ongoing efforts to protect and expand mangrove forests across coastal States and Union Territories.

    Among the regulatory measures, the government enforces the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (2019) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, as well as other relevant legislation, including the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. These legal provisions are aimed at safeguarding the fragile coastal ecosystem against degradation.

    To further boost mangrove conservation, the government launched the “Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes” (MISHTI) on June 5, 2023. This initiative, in collaboration with coastal States and Union Territories, focuses on restoring and afforesting mangroves across approximately 540 km². The program is being implemented through convergence with the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), which is providing financial support for the initiative.

    Regulatory and Promotional Measures

    For the financial year 2024-2025, the government has released ₹17.96 crore from CAMPA funds to Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal, and the Union Territory of Puducherry for the restoration of degraded mangrove areas. This funding is expected to support large-scale plantation and conservation efforts in these regions.

    According to the India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR-2023), India’s total mangrove cover stands at 4,991.68 km², accounting for 0.15 per cent of the country’s total geographical area. West Bengal has the highest share of mangrove forests at 42.45 per cent, followed by Gujarat (23.66 per cent) and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands (12.39 per cent). Notably, Gujarat has witnessed a significant increase of 253.06 km² in mangrove cover between 2001 and 2023, attributed to effective conservation policies, large-scale plantation initiatives, and successful Public-Private Partnership models involving local communities.

    The minister emphasised that the implementation of these regulatory and promotional measures has yielded positive results in enhancing mangrove coverage and resilience. The government remains committed to strengthening coastal ecosystems and ensuring long-term environmental sustainability through targeted conservation strategies.

    Pakistan Finalising National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025 to Attract Investment

    OWSA Contributor
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    Pakistan Finalising National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025 to Attract Investment

    The upcoming Pakistan Critical Minerals Summit in April will be a crucial milestone in showcasing these advancements and securing further investment opportunities.

    The Pakistan government is in the final stages of completing the National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025, a landmark initiative designed to attract investment and boost the country’s mining sector. The framework, set for adoption by all provinces of the country by February 26, 2025, is expected to enhance regulatory uniformity and improve investor confidence.

    The upcoming Pakistan Critical Minerals Summit, scheduled for April 9, will serve as the platform to unveil the framework. One of the major foreign investment interests in Pakistan’s mining industry comes from Saudi Arabia, which has expressed its intent to acquire a 15 per cent stake in the Reko Diq copper and gold mining project. The framework aims to solidify domestic and national policies to attract further foreign direct investment (FDI) and expand the mining sector’s economic footprint.

    The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has spearheaded this initiative, emphasizing the importance of bringing all provinces on board. Sources indicate that extensive consultations have been conducted at various levels, involving chief secretaries, chief ministers, mining associations, state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and both large- and small-scale mining companies.

    Over 750 issues were raised during these discussions, of which 694 have been addressed and incorporated into the framework. As a result, two key legislative measures—the harmonised Mines and Minerals Act 2025 and the National Mineral Development Policy 2025—are now ready for implementation. These will be prominently featured at the Pakistan Minerals Summit in April.

    Reko Diq Project and Investment Plan

    Another crucial legislative development in progress is the Mines Safety and Health Act 2025. The federal government, in collaboration with stakeholders, is set to finalise this act and aims to secure its adoption across all provinces before June 2025. This initiative underscores Pakistan’s commitment to worker safety and sustainable mining practices.

    To combat illegal mining activities, the federal government has mandated all chief ministers and the AJK prime minister to enforce strict regulations. Under the Mines and Minerals Act 2025, no foreign company will be granted a lease for raw material extraction and export, ensuring that mineral resources benefit domestic industrial growth.

    Moreover, provincial governments will identify policies and laws that hinder FDI and industrial development. These regulations will be harmonised in collaboration with the Ministry of Law and Justice through the Council of Common Interests (CCI), facilitating a business-friendly environment.

    Pakistan has already outlined a $1.9 billion funding plan for the Reko Diq copper and gold mining project, a venture with an estimated total cost of $4.297 billion. Of this, the special purpose vehicle (SPV) for state-owned enterprises will contribute $1.194 billion, while the government of Balochistan’s SPV will invest $717 million. The federal government will provide the necessary funding for Balochistan’s share.

    Additionally, should debt financing be required, the federal government will issue a back-to-back guarantee for Balochistan’s share, subject to approval by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC). These financial arrangements aim to ensure a smooth execution of the project and its long-term viability.

    Out-of-Court Settlement with TCCA

    The Reko Diq project has also seen legal hurdles, but the federal and provincial governments successfully reached an out-of-court settlement with Tethyan Copper Company Australia (TCCA). This resolution was necessary to avoid adverse arbitration awards from the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

    Under the revised agreement, Reko Diq will be developed as a joint venture between Barrick Gold Corporation, the government of Balochistan, and state-owned enterprises such as Pakistan Petroleum Limited, Oil and Gas Development Company, and Government Holdings (Pvt) Limited.

    The finalisation of the National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025 is poised to revolutionise Pakistan’s mining sector. By ensuring regulatory uniformity, attracting FDI, and fostering industrial growth, this initiative is expected to position Pakistan as a key player in the global mineral market. The upcoming Pakistan Critical Minerals Summit in April will be a crucial milestone in showcasing these advancements and securing further investment opportunities.

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