Context:
Digital Economy Report 2024 Released by UN Trade and Development
Report highlights:
- Internet users have increased from 1 billion in 2005 to 5.4 billion in 2023.
- ICT sector is estimated to have accounted for 1.5 – 3.2 % of global GHG emissions in 2020.
- Increase in online shoppers has led to a 30% rise in digital-related waste from 2010 to 2022, reaching 10.5 million tonnes globally.
- Data centres not only have considerable electricity needs but also require water for cooling.
- In 2022, Global data centres alone consumed 460 terawatts hours (expected to double by 2026).
- Demand for minerals required for digitalization like graphite, lithium, and cobalt could surge by 500 % to 2050.
UNCTAD:
- Permanent intergovernmental body by the United Nations General Assembly
- Established in – 1964
- Members – 195 nations (including India)
- Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland
- Activities are advisory by nature.
- Structure –
- UNCTAD Conference – Highest policy-making body of UNCTAD which meets once every 4 years
- Trade and Development Board – UNCTAD’s executive body which is responsible for the operations of the organization when the Conference is not in session.
- UNCTAD Secretariat – Performs policy analysis, monitors and implements the decisions of UNCTAD’s intergovernmental bodies, and provides for technical cooperation.
- Key Reports – Trade & Development Report, World Investment Report & Least Developed Countries Report
Source: UNCTAD
Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements:
1. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
2. “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of the trade between India and Bangladesh.
3. In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2020 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is not correct. The value of India-Sri Lanka trade has not considerably increased in the last decade. It registered a downfall post 2014-15.
Statement 3 is not correct. In South Asia, Bangladesh has been India’s largest trading partner.
