The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2023

The Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institutet has decided to award the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman “for their discoveries concerning nucleoside base modifications that enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19.”

The discoveries by the two Nobel Prize laureates were critical for developing effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 during the pandemic that began in early 2020. Through their groundbreaking findings, which have fundamentally changed our understanding of how mRNA interacts with our immune system, the laureates contributed to the unprecedented rate of vaccine development during one of the greatest threats to human health in modern times.

 Image Courtesy: The Nobel Committe for Physiology or Medicine. Ill. Mattias Karlén

Katalin Karikó (Affiliation at the time of the award: Szeged University, Szeged, Hungary; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA): “for their discoveries concerning nucleoside base modifications that enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19”.

Drew Weissman (Affiliation at the time of the award: Penn Institute for RNA Innovations, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA): “for their discoveries concerning nucleoside base modifications that enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19”.

India wins bid to host 17th International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement

India has won the bid to host the prestigious International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement (ICCC) at New Delhi in 2027. India’s leading research and academic institutes, National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM) along with IIT Delhi successfully presented the India’s bid before the Steering Committee members of the Conference during the ongoing 16th ICCC at Bangkok, Thailand. Besides India, other bidders were from Switzerland and UAE. The decision was announced on 20th September 2023 at Bangkok, Thailand during the 16th ICCC. The Indian bid was presented by Dr L P Singh, Director General, NCCBM, Dr S K Chaturvedi, Joint Director, NCCBM and Dr Shashank Bishnoi, Professor (Civil Engg.), IIT Delhi.

The International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement is the largest and most prestigious event of its kind which reviews the progress of research in the area of Cement and Concrete. The congresses have been held generally at intervals of four to six years since 1918, providing a strong and fruitful link between the academic world and the cement industry. The 9th Congress was organized at New Delhi in 1992 by NCCBM and the present 16th ICCC is being held at Bangkok, Thailand from 18-22 September 2023.

Hosting this esteemed event in India provides us with a unique opportunity to bring together the leading leaders, experts, and innovators in cement sector from around the world. This event is not only a testament to our research and academic organization's capabilities but also a chance to showcase our vibrant city New Delhi to the global cement and concrete industry. New Delhi, as a host city, will be poised to offer an unforgettable experience to all attendees of 17th ICCC in 2027 with its world-class conference facilities like Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional hospitality.

National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM) is an apex Research and Development organization under the administrative control of DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. NCCBM is dedicated to research, technology development & transfer, education & industrial services for cement, allied building materials & construction industries. NCCBM has a proven track record of executing biennial NCB International Seminars/Conferences of similar magnitude, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all participants from across the globe.

Background

India is the fifth largest economy today and is likely to become third largest by the next five years and its cement industry is second largest in the world with installed cement capacity of 600 million tonnes. The cement industry in India plays a key role in circular economy framework in the country by utilizing various industrial wastes and is having one of the lowest CO2 footprints and most energy efficient in the world. The booming infrastructure development, resources, and expertise available within India make it a perfect backdrop to bring together thought leaders, academics, cement and concrete professionals, and enthusiasts to exchange ideas and drive progress. The experience and framework of Indian cement industry for addressing local and global issues such as decarbonisation, sustainable development, circular economy in operation, energy security, alternate energy sources, low carbon cements and so on provide an ideal modal for deliberations and showcasing to global leaders and technocrats for the benefits of global society at large.

What is the G20 and how does it work

In the dynamic world of international economics and diplomacy, the G20 has emerged as a formidable force. Its inception in 1999, born out of the crucible of the Asian financial crisis of 1997-98, marked the beginning of a unique forum. Originally designed as an informal platform for finance ministers and central bank governors, it has since evolved into an influential assembly that includes the heads of state of member countries, especially in the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis.

The Evolution of G20

Origins and Expansion

The G20's genesis can be traced back to the turbulent times of 1999 when it was established as a response to the financial upheaval that had gripped Asia. Initially, it served as an informal gathering of finance ministers and central bank governors, offering them a platform to discuss crucial financial matters. This exclusive club comprised representatives from both developed and developing economies, fostering a sense of collaboration among diverse nations.

However, it was the seismic shockwaves of the global financial crisis in 2008 that catapulted the G20 onto the world stage. Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive approach to tackle economic challenges, the G20 expanded its membership to include the heads of state of member countries. This transformation elevated it to a leader's summit, where critical decisions were made to stabilize the global economy.

The Troika System

One of the unique features of the G20 is its Presidency rotation system, known as the troika system. This system involves three countries: the current host, the previous host, and the next host. It ensures continuity and a smooth transition of leadership. In 2022, India took the helm of the G20 Presidency from Indonesia, the outgoing member of the troika. As of now, Brazil has assumed the Presidency, taking the baton from India as the next troika country.

Unpacking the Mechanics of G20

The G20 operates through three key tracks, each playing a crucial role in shaping international economic policies and diplomatic initiatives:

Finance Track

Led by finance ministers and central bank governors, the Finance Track serves as the economic engine of the G20. This track convenes approximately four times a year to deliberate on pressing fiscal and monetary policy issues. Its scope extends to topics like the global economy, infrastructure development, financial regulation, financial inclusion, international financial architecture, and international taxation. Within the Finance Track, several working groups dissect these matters in greater detail. These include:

• Framework Group: Focused on establishing a cohesive framework for economic cooperation among member nations.
• International Financial Architecture: Discussing the structural aspects of the global financial system.
• Infrastructure Group: Addressing infrastructure development, a key driver of economic growth.
• Sustainable Finance: Promoting sustainable financial practices to safeguard the planet.
• Financial Inclusion: Ensuring that financial services are accessible to all.
• Finance and Health: Exploring the intersection of finance and public health.
• International Taxation: Delving into cross-border taxation challenges.
• Financial Sector Matters: Analyzing issues related to the financial sector.

Sherpa Track

Established in 2008, the Sherpa Track is an integral component of the G20, comprising representatives of heads of state. It tackles a broad spectrum of socioeconomic concerns that have a direct impact on global prosperity. The Sherpa Track explores areas such as agriculture, anti-corruption, climate change, the digital economy, education, employment, energy, environment, health, tourism, trade, and investment. Each representative in this track is referred to as a Sherpa, and there are 13 working groups that delve into these crucial areas:

• Agriculture: Focusing on sustainable agricultural practices.
• Anti-corruption: Combating corruption for transparent governance.
• Culture: Promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
• Development: Addressing global development challenges.
• Digital Economy: Navigating the complexities of the digital age.
• Disaster Risk Reduction: Mitigating the impact of natural disasters.
• Education: Empowering individuals through education.
• Employment: Enhancing global employment opportunities.
• Energy Transitions: Advancing clean and sustainable energy solutions.
• Environment and Climate Sustainability: Combating climate change and preserving the environment.
• Health: Promoting global health and well-being.
• Tourism: Enhancing the tourism industry's role in economic growth.
• Trade and Investment: Facilitating international trade and investment.

Engagement Groups

Beyond the official tracks, the G20 incorporates non-governmental participants and engagement groups. These groups offer valuable recommendations that contribute to policy-making. The Engagement Groups encompass a diverse range of voices, including:

• Business20: Representing the business community.
• Civil20: Advocating for civil society and human rights.
• Labour20: Focusing on labor and workers' rights.
• Parliament20: Bridging the gap between legislatures and the G20.
• Science20: Leveraging scientific expertise for informed decision-making.
• SAI20: Strengthening the role of supreme audit institutions.
• Startup20: Nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Think20: Providing intellectual insights and policy recommendations.
• Urban20: Addressing urban challenges and opportunities.
• Women20: Promoting gender equality and women's empowerment.
• Youth20: Amplifying the voices of young leaders.

In conclusion, the G20 is a dynamic forum that has evolved significantly since its inception in 1999. From addressing financial crises to becoming a key platform for international economic cooperation, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the global economic landscape. With its diverse tracks and engagement groups, the G20 continues to foster collaboration and innovation, making it a critical player in addressing the challenges of the 21st century.

G20 Summit 2023 and its outcome

The G20 Summit 2023 was the 18th meeting of the Group of Twenty, an international forum that includes 19 of the world’s largest economies and the European Union. The summit was held in New Delhi, India, from September 9 to 10, 2023, under the theme of “One Earth, One Family, One Future”. It was the first G20 summit to be hosted by India, which assumed the presidency of the G20 from December 1, 2022 to November 30, 2023.

Some of the major outcomes of the summit are:

• The New Delhi Declaration: This was a document that contained 83 paragraphs of consensus among all G20 members on various issues, such as global health, economic recovery, climate change, digital transformation, multilateralism, and international security. The declaration also addressed the conflict in Ukraine and called for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
• The Climate Action Plan: This was a plan that reaffirmed the commitment of all G20 members to the Paris Agreement and its goals of limiting global warming to well below 2°C and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5°C. The plan also outlined concrete actions and targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing adaptation and resilience, mobilizing finance and technology, and promoting green development and lifestyle.
• The Global Minimum Tax: This was an agreement that endorsed the proposal of a global minimum tax rate of at least 15% for multinational corporations, as part of the broader efforts to reform the international tax system and ensure a fair and level playing field. The agreement also aimed to address the challenges posed by the digitalization of the economy and ensure that profits are taxed where economic activities occur and value is created.
• The Digital Public Infrastructure: This was an initiative that proposed to create a common digital platform for delivering public services and enhancing financial inclusion, based on the successful experience of India’s Aadhaar system. The initiative also aimed to foster cooperation and innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data governance, and digital literacy.

These are some of the highlights of the G20 Summit 2023 and its outcomes.

XV BRICS Summit 2023: Theme and Priorities

South Africa became Chair of BRICS on 1 January 2023 under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism”. The theme informs the Chair’s five priorities for 2023:

Developing a partnership towards an equitable Just Transition:

There is no part of the world that is not feeling the dramatic changes to climate and extreme weather events. Tackling climate change requires urgent, significant, and transformational changes across all sectors of the economy. Opportunities need to be explored to manage the risks associated with climate change while still improving the lives and futures of those people employed under the umbrella of targeted industries.

Transforming education and skills development for the future:

Education and continuous skills development are long-term solutions towards development and escaping poverty. Existing cooperation and initiatives towards knowledge creation and exchange must be strengthened to unlock opportunities for the future.

Unlocking opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Area:

The African Continental Free Trade Area creates a predictable environment for trade and investments in Africa, particularly in infrastructure development. BRICS members are reliable partners for cooperation, trade and development. The partnership between BRICS and Africa must focus on unlocking mutually beneficial opportunities for increased trade, investment, and infrastructure development towards the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area in line with its priorities and objectives.

Strengthening post-pandemic socio-economic recovery and the attainment of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development:

The economic plans and strategies must be implemented with a vision of placing BRICS economies at the centre of sustainable global economic growth. Solutions need to be found to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Equity, fairness and a recognition of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capacities should underly the response.

Strengthening multilateralism, including working towards real reform of global governance institutions and strengthening the meaningful participation of women in peace processes:

BRICS has a common vision of a more equitable, fair, balanced, just and representative global political, economic and financial system, but faces global resistance by vested interests. Recent reform achievements serve as the foundation for continued efforts to channel the collective BRICS voice and influence where it can make a change. The marginalisation of women in peace processes needs to be addressed. Lasting peace, security and sustainable development cannot be achieved without the inclusion of women in conflict resolution as well as in post-conflict reconstruction.

Source: https://brics2023.gov.za/about-the-summit/

BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism

In a rapidly evolving global landscape, partnerships between nations have become essential for fostering economic growth, sustainable development, and multilateral cooperation. One such significant partnership is between the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and Africa. This article explores how this collaboration is fostering mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development, and inclusive multilateralism on the African continent.

BRICS and Africa: A Historical Perspective

The Emergence of BRICS

The BRICS bloc came into existence in 2009, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa joined later, expanding the group's global reach. The primary aim was to facilitate cooperation in economic and political spheres.

Historical Ties with Africa

All BRICS nations have historical ties with Africa, dating back to the anti-colonial struggles. These connections laid the foundation for closer collaboration in the 21st century.

Economic Growth Through Investment

Investment Initiatives

BRICS nations have significantly invested in African infrastructure and industries. China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a prime example, with substantial projects spanning across the continent.

Trade and Commerce

Trade between BRICS and Africa has grown steadily. Efforts to reduce trade barriers have opened up new opportunities for African nations to export their goods and resources to BRICS countries.

Sustainable Development and Innovation

Technological Advancements

BRICS nations have shared technological innovations with African partners. This has led to improved healthcare, education, and communication infrastructure.

Agricultural Advancements

Collaboration in agriculture has enhanced food security and agricultural productivity in Africa, contributing to sustainable development.

Inclusive Multilateralism

Diplomacy and Global Governance

BRICS and Africa have joined forces in international forums to address global challenges such as climate change and peacekeeping. This fosters inclusive multilateralism by giving a voice to emerging economies.

South-South Cooperation

Both BRICS and African nations champion South-South cooperation, emphasizing equality and mutual benefit in international relations.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Infrastructure Challenges

Despite progress, challenges remain in ensuring the sustainability of infrastructure projects and addressing issues related to debt.

Geopolitical Considerations

Navigating global power dynamics is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the BRICS-Africa partnership.

Conclusion

The partnership between BRICS and Africa is a testament to the potential of international collaboration in fostering mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development, and inclusive multilateralism. As these nations continue to work together, they set a powerful example for the world.

FAQs

Q. What is BRICS, and why is it important for Africa?

ANS. BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It is important for Africa as it represents a significant economic and political partnership that fosters development and cooperation on the continent.

Q. What are some notable BRICS investments in Africa?

ANS. Notable investments include China's Belt and Road Initiative, which involves large-scale infrastructure projects in Africa, and India's contributions to technology and healthcare.

Q. How does the BRICS-Africa partnership contribute to sustainable development?
ANS. The partnership contributes to sustainable development through investments in infrastructure, technology transfer, and agricultural advancements that improve living standards and economic growth.

Q. What are the challenges faced by this partnership?
ANS. Challenges include addressing infrastructure sustainability, managing debt from investments, and navigating global geopolitical dynamics.

Q. How can other regions learn from BRICS and Africa's collaboration?
ANS. Other regions can learn from their emphasis on equality in international relations, technology sharing, and collective efforts to address global challenges.

Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA)

India will show the world a new path on biofuels through the Global Biofuels Alliance, stated Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs. Expressing his views through a series of posts on the social media platform ‘X’ the Minister noted that following the mantra of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, this effort of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will definitely reduce the dependence on petrol and diesel across the world.

Creating history in the global energy sector, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced the launch of the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) on the sidelines of the G20 Summit yesterday. 19 countries and 12 international organizations have already agreed to join the alliance.

GBA is an India-led Initiative to develop an alliance of Governments, International organizations, and Industry to facilitate the adoption of biofuels. Bringing together the biggest consumers and producers of biofuels to drive biofuel development and deployment, the initiative aims to position biofuels as a key to energy transition and contribute to jobs and economic growth.

Shri Hardeep Puri observed that the world’s quest for cleaner & greener energy has gained historic momentum with the launch of GBA on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.

The Indian Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister expressed his gratitude to Ms. Jennifer Granholm, Secretary of the Department of Energy, US; Mr. Alexandre Silveira, Energy Minister of Brazil; & Dr. Evandro Gussi President & CEO of UNICA Brazil for germinating the seeds of forming Global Biofuels Alliance.

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri noted that the visionary Global Biofuels Alliance supported by G20 Nations & energy-related global organizations like the International Energy Agency (IEA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), World Economic Forum (WEO), and World LPG Association among others will strengthen global biofuels trade & best practices allowing the members to successfully face the Energy Quadrilemma. This will bolster the transformation of our farmers from ‘Annadatas to Urjadatas’ as an additional source of income. In last 9 year we have given ₹71,600 cr to our farmers. With E20 implementation by 2025, India will save about ₹45,000 cr in oil imports & 63 MT of oil annually, he added.

GBA will support the worldwide development and deployment of sustainable biofuels by offering capacity-building exercises across the value chain, technical support for national programs, and promoting policy lessons-sharing. It will facilitate mobilizing a virtual marketplace to assist industries, countries, ecosystem players and key stakeholders in mapping demand and supply, as well as connecting technology providers to end users. It will also facilitate the development, adoption and implementation of internationally recognized standards, codes, sustainability principles and regulations to incentivize biofuels adoption and trade.

The initiative will be beneficial for India on multiple fronts. GBA as a tangible outcome of the G20 presidency, will help strengthen India’s position globally. Moreover, the alliance will focus on collaboration and will provide additional opportunities to Indian industries in the form of exporting technology and exporting equipment. It will help accelerate India’s existing biofuel programs such as PM-JIVANYojna, SATAT, and GOBARdhan scheme, thereby contributing to increased farmers’ income, creating jobs, and overall development of the Indian ecosystem. The global ethanol market was valued at USD 99.06 billion in 2022 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% by 2032 and surpass USD 162.12 billion by 2032. As per IEA, there will be 3.5-5x biofuels growth potential by 2050 due to Net Zero targets, creating a huge opportunity for India.

Source: pib.gov.in