Daily Current Affairs : 22-July-2023
In recent news, India has taken a significant step towards promoting sustainable development and combating climate change by considering the expansion of its solar STAR-C initiative. The initiative, managed by the International Solar Alliance (ISA), aims to bolster solar power ecosystems in some of the world’s poorest countries, with a particular focus on Pacific Island nations. This essay will delve into the details of India’s efforts to expand the STAR-C initiative, its objectives, and the significance it holds for economic development, connectivity, and climate change.
Understanding the STAR-C Initiative
The Solar Technology Application Resource Centre (STAR-C) initiative is a crucial project aimed at creating specialized centers, known as STAR centers, to act as hubs of technology, knowledge, and expertise related to solar energy. These centers are designed to provide valuable resources and support to countries seeking to adopt and harness solar power for their energy needs.
Key Players in Implementation
The implementation of the STAR-C initiative is a collaborative effort between the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Funding for the project is provided by the Government of France, highlighting the global cooperation and commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
Current Status and Expansion
As of now, the STAR-C initiative operates in Tonga, a Pacific Island country. However, India is exploring the possibility of expanding the initiative to other Pacific Island nations. This expansion is expected to bring numerous benefits to these countries, which often face unique challenges in terms of energy access, economic growth, and climate vulnerability.
Objectives of India’s Efforts
India’s primary focus in expanding the STAR-C initiative lies in three critical areas:
- Economic Development: Access to clean and sustainable energy sources is a key driver of economic growth. By promoting solar power ecosystems in Pacific Island countries, India aims to empower local communities, enhance industrial productivity, and create new opportunities for economic advancement.
- Connectivity: Many remote and isolated communities in the Pacific face difficulties in accessing reliable energy sources. The STAR-C initiative seeks to address these challenges by establishing solar power infrastructure that can improve connectivity and access to electricity, even in the most remote regions.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Climate change poses a significant threat to Pacific Island nations, with rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation. Embracing solar energy can help these countries reduce their carbon footprint, transition away from fossil fuels, and contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.
Importance for Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States
The STAR-C initiative’s overall objective is to create a robust network of institutional capacities within ISA Member States, with a particular emphasis on Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). These countries often face unique challenges due to their limited resources and vulnerability to climate change. By building sustainable solar energy infrastructure and fostering knowledge exchange, the initiative aims to uplift these nations and pave the way for a greener and more prosperous future.
Important Points:
- India is considering expanding its solar STAR-C initiative, managed by the International Solar Alliance, to several Pacific Island countries.
- The STAR-C initiative aims to bolster solar power ecosystems in the poorest countries, with a current presence in Tonga in the Pacific.
- The project involves building STAR centers as hubs of technology, knowledge, and expertise on solar energy.
- The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) are implementing the project, with funding from the Government of France.
- The primary focus of India’s efforts will be on economic development, connectivity, and climate change in the Pacific Island countries.
- Economic development through solar power can empower local communities and foster industrial productivity.
- The initiative aims to improve connectivity and access to reliable electricity in remote and isolated regions.
- By embracing solar energy, Pacific Island nations can contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts.
- The expansion of the STAR-C initiative is particularly significant for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the region.
- These countries face unique challenges due to limited resources and vulnerability to climate change.
- The STAR-C initiative seeks to create a strong network of institutional capacities within ISA Member States to enhance solar energy product and service markets in LDCs and SIDS.
- The project aligns with the goal of transitioning away from fossil fuels and promoting sustainability and renewable energy sources.
- Collaboration between India, the International Solar Alliance, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, and the Government of France showcases global commitment to combat climate change and foster a greener future.
Why In News
India is taking significant strides in bolstering its solar STAR-C initiative, facilitated by the International Solar Alliance, by extending its benefits to several Pacific Island nations. This move reflects India’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and reinforcing clean energy partnerships across the globe.
MCQs about India’s Expansion of Solar STAR-C Initiative
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What is the primary objective of India’s solar STAR-C initiative?
A. Promoting tourism in Pacific Island countries.
B. Enhancing quality infrastructure for solar energy in the poorest countries.
C. Establishing nuclear power plants in the Pacific region.
D. Expanding oil and gas exploration in small island nations.
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Which international organizations are implementing the STAR-C initiative in collaboration with India?
A. International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank.
B. International Solar Alliance (ISA) and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
C. World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
D. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Greenpeace.
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What areas will India’s efforts primarily focus on while expanding the STAR-C initiative?
A. Military defense and security.
B. Economic development, connectivity, and climate change.
C. Education and healthcare infrastructure.
D. Agriculture and food security.
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Why is the STAR-C initiative particularly significant for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)?
A. It provides financial aid to these countries.
B. It aims to establish a network of institutional capacities for solar energy adoption.
C. It offers military assistance in times of conflict.
D. It focuses on promoting fossil fuel consumption.
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