Nov 19th 2024 Current Affairs

Index:

Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Visit:

Countries Visited:
- Nigeria: Strengthened ties in areas such as defense, trade, and education.
- Brazil (for G-20 Summit): Showcased India’s commitment to the Global South.
- Guyana: Enhancing India’s outreach in South America.
Significant Milestones:
- Nigeria Visit:
  - Declaration of a Strategic Partnership with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
  - PM Modi received the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, recognizing India-Nigeria historical ties.
- Emphasis on countering terrorism, separatism, piracy, and drug trafficking

India-Nigeria Relations:

Historic Ties:
- India was among the first to send teachers and doctors post-Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
- The Indian diaspora in Nigeria: Over 60,000 (largest in West Africa).
Economic Engagement:
- Around 200 Indian companies have invested $27 billion in sectors like:
  - Pharma
  - Health care
  - Agriculture
  - Energy
- Bilateral cooperation in addressing shared challenges like:
  - Pollution
  - Population density

Significance:
- Nigeria: One of Africa’s top economies, a member of the BRICS bloc.
- Strengthens India’s strategic influence in West Africa.

Global South Engagement:

India’s Efforts:
- Leadership in “Voice of the Global South” (VoGS)
- Advocacy for the African Union’s inclusion in G-20.
Challenges:
- Lack of follow-through in initiatives.
- Underwhelming participation in VoGS.
Way Forward:
- Allow G-20 to host VoGS summits regularly.

Revive and hold the overdue India-Africa Forum Summit (last held in 2015) by 2024.

High-Performance Buildings (HPBs)

Definition: HPBs are designed to tackle energy efficiency, climate resilience, and resource conservation.
Key Features:
- Passive and active strategies to minimize environmental impact.
- Use of sustainable materials and renewable resources.
- Incorporation of advanced systems for energy and water efficiency.

Key Strategies for Climate-Resilient Design

Integrative Design:
- Collaborative effort among architects, engineers, and consultants.
- Sets measurable performance goals (e.g., daylighting, air-conditioning efficiency).
- Utilizes digital modeling to predict and enhance performance.
Use of Sustainable Materials:
- Preference for low-emission, recycled
- Life-cycle assessments guide material choices for minimal environmental impact.
Efficient HVAC Systems:
- Systems like radiant cooling combine energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
- Net-zero energy targets, where buildings generate more energy than they consume.
Water Conservation:
- Fixtures such as low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets.
- Rainwater harvesting for irrigation and sanitation needs.
- On-site wastewater treatment systems to reduce freshwater dependence.
Energy Efficiency:
- Incorporation of renewable energy sources like solar and biogas.
- Advanced energy systems to reduce operational costs and carbon footprint.

Climate Risk Management

Flood Protection: Strategic use of durable materials and passive survival techniques for structural resilience.
Energy Backups: Renewable energy systems ensure functionality during power outages.

Case Studies

Infosys Hyderabad:
- Radiant cooling HVAC system for thermal regulation.
- Daylighting controls to reduce energy consumption.
IHS Bengaluru:
- Space-efficient design, requiring 75 kWh per sqm annually (lower than typical offices).
- Innovative wastewater treatment and rainwater harvesting.

Significance of HPBs

Environmental Benefits: Reduction in resource use, energy demand, and emissions.
Cost Efficiency: Long-term operational savings despite higher initial costs.
Occupant Well-being: Improved indoor air quality and thermal comfort.

Why Climate-Resilient Design Matters

Need: Increasing climate risks like extreme heat, floods, and water scarcity.

Impact: Ensures sustainable urban living and supports global climate goals.