CiCM 11th December 2023

NEWS IN CHINA

China issues warning on foreign GIS software espionage threat to national security: China's Ministry of State Security has raised concerns over the use of foreign geographic information system (GIS) software in key industries, revealing that such software has been collecting and transmitting sensitive geographic information data, including potential state secrets. The ministry warned that this poses a serious threat to national security. As per an article published on the Ministry’s WeChat account, the GIS software, designed for data collection, storage, analysis, and management, holds powerful functions and accuracy, but foreign organizations and individuals have exploited it for intelligence espionage. It further went on to distinguish the methods used in seeking sensitive data such as connecting to foreign servers, collecting user data without restrictions, and installing backdoors for network attacks. The ministry emphasized the high value of geographic data as an intelligence resource, crucial for reconstructing three-dimensional topographic maps in vital sectors like transportation, energy, and the military. As a response to the alleged threat, the national security agencies were conducting special investigations to eliminate data security risks and safeguard important national data. The ministry also urged organizations and individuals to use secure GIS software, set strict access permissions, and avoid marking sensitive information online to ensure data security.
Historic-Low turnout in Hong Kong's 'Patriots' district elections amid crackdown and exclusion of opposition: Hong Kong's first district elections for "patriots" recorded a historic-low turnout of 27.5%, with all opposition candidates excluded from the race. The city's last district council elections in 2019 saw a record-high 71% turnout amid democracy protests. However, a crackdown on dissent, bolstered by Beijing's national security law implemented in 2020, led to authorities eliminating politically disloyal figures. The police arrested at least six people during the recent elections, which drew less than 1.2 million voters out of 4.3 million registered electors. Beijing, on the other hand praised the election, claiming it "uplifted the spirit" and congratulated Hong Kong for implementing the "principle of patriots administering Hong Kong." Critics argued that the record-low turnout reflected citizens' skepticism and a weak mobilization effort by the local government. The new election rules reduced directly elected seats from 462 to 88, with the majority controlled by loyalists and committees. Pro-democracy parties were effectively shut out, leading to arrests for those planning protests during the elections.
China's top court intervenes in rising bride price disputes, releases guiding cases for legal clarity: China's top court, in conjunction with the Ministry of Civil Affairs and All-China Women’s Federation, addressed the escalating issues surrounding bride prices and dowries by releasing four emblematic cases to guide and complement the stipulations in the Civil Code. The tradition of bride price and dowry, deeply rooted in Chinese society, has encountered growing disputes, some even escalating to serious criminal cases, due to the rising amounts involved. The Supreme People’s Court emphasized the need for a balanced approach, considering factors such as cohabitation duration, legal marriage registration, and the presence of children. The court outlined three key principles for handling disputes over betrothal gifts: prohibiting property solicitation through marriage, determining a reasonable amount based on local customs, and ensuring a balance of rights and interests. Notably, disputes often arise in cases of "flash divorce" and cohabitation without legal marriage registration. The court clarified that the bride price is intended for long-term cohabitation, and the duration of living together should be a crucial factor in deciding whether and how much should be returned. Additionally, the court recognized the harm caused by the termination of pregnancy to a woman's health and suggested returning only a portion of the bride price to better balance the interests of both parties. The court's interpretation seeks to address the societal burden created by exorbitant betrothal gifts, which have transformed from an expression of good wishes to a financially burdensome practice.
North China experiences heavy snow fall : As a cold wave swept through northern China, Beijing experienced its inaugural snowfall of the winter on Sunday evening, bringing a silver-white coat to the capital. The snowfall transformed iconic landmarks like Beihai Park and the Forbidden City, where red walls and golden tiles stood out against the pristine white snow. Despite causing heavy congestion during the morning rush hour, the snowfall painted a picturesque scene. Netizens expressed awe at the snowy spectacle, with many from southern regions expressing envy and eagerness to experience snow themselves. In Beijing Yellow alert for icy roads issued by the city's weather station. Over 180 bus routes suspended, and 26 trains at Beijing West Station will be suspended. In Henan Province red alerts for heavy snow in many areas were issued and suspension of junior high schools, primary schools, and kindergartens was observed. . Additionally, areas dependent on agriculture, like Shouguang City, are implementing measures to protect vital supplies and maintain operations in the face of challenging weather conditions. Meanwhile, the cold wave's impact extended beyond Beijing, prompting warnings and measures in various provinces to cope with the extreme weather conditions. This atmospheric shift coincides with a moderate El Niño predicted to persist until spring, heightening the risk of natural disasters due to warmer global temperatures and extreme weather events, as highlighted in a recent analysis by Chinese authorities.
China achieved a bumper harvest this year: Production of a total of 695.41 million metric tons of grain, which marked a significant year-on-year increase of 8.88 million tons or 1.3 percent, was reported by the National Bureau of Statistics on Monday. The nation's 31 provincial-level administrative regions collectively cultivated a food-growing area totaling 119 million hectares, showcasing a growth of 0.5 percent compared to the previous year. The productivity reached an average of 5.845 tons per hectare nationwide, demonstrating a 0.8 percent increase from the previous year. These gains are noteworthy considering the challenges faced, including heatwaves and torrential rains during the summer that disrupted food production and led to entire harvest losses in certain regions. The positive outcome aligns with earlier predictions by agricultural officials, who anticipated a rise in food output due to expanded growing areas, the adoption of high-yield crop varieties, and milder-than-usual drought conditions.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER IN CHINA

Lottery Winner's Generosity Sparks Admiration: The public's reaction to the generous gesture of the lottery winner, Mr. Guo from Puyang in Henan province, has been one of admiration and appreciation. Guo, who recently claimed a substantial lottery prize of 86.62 million yuan ($12 million), chose to share his newfound wealth with the community. His decision to donate a remarkable 53 million yuan on-site to the Henan Sports Development Foundation, a public welfare organization, has garnered widespread praise. Guo's unexpected windfall, which he acquired through a casual 100-yuan bet on the China Sports Lottery's Super Lotto, has captivated the public's imagination. Many applauded his philanthropic spirit and commitment to giving back to society, especially in a manner that supports sports development. In interviews, Guo expressed humility, recognizing the responsibility that accompanies significant wealth. The grand scale of Guo's prize, officially declared as the highest-ever lottery win in the history of the Henan Sports Lottery, has added to the intrigue surrounding his story. It contrasts with another recent notable win in Nanchang, where an individual secured 220 million yuan from the China Welfare Lottery, sparking debates and public concerns about the possibility of insider trading. The ongoing investigation by the Jiangxi provincial department of civil affairs into the circumstances of the Nanchang lottery victory reflects the public's keen interest in the transparency and fairness of lottery proceedings.

INDIA WATCH

India and China have followed divergent paths in the development of their railway sectors. Union Railways Minister Piyush Goyal pointed out that India's rail infrastructure has grown by only 30% in the past 65 years, citing insufficient investment as a primary factor. In contrast, China has aggressively expanded its railway and overall infrastructure, aiming for an impressive ₹50 lakh crore investment in railways by 2030. Despite possessing the world's fourth-largest railway system, India is focusing on safety, network expansion, and increased freight capacity to enhance its network. India's commitment to modernization and sustainability is evident in projects like the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail, a $14.27 billion initiative, and the vision to electrify the entire railway network by 2023. China, with the second-largest global railway network, is concentrating on extensive infrastructure projects in its western regions due to security concerns, economic interests, and geopolitical strategies. The contrasting approaches to railway and overall infrastructure growth between the two nations are underscored by China's ambitious investments and strategic developments in its western regions. China's significant development of railway infrastructure in Tibet and Xinjiang has notable implications for India, particularly with the new high-speed rail line connecting Lhasa to Nyingchi, transforming the region into a more connected transportation hub with potential military deployment capabilities. The military infrastructure in the area supports China's bolstered military capabilities along the border, marking a shift in the security landscape. This massive undertaking, including airports, heliports, roads, and rail construction and upgrades, serves strategic military purposes, enhancing China's ability to project power along its western borders, especially in disputed areas with India. While India is making efforts to improve its rail infrastructure, challenges persist, including the need for increased investment and overcoming geographical hurdles. China's rapid infrastructure expansion across the country encompassing new airports, high-speed rail, and roads, highlights its proactive approach to address security concerns and stimulate economic development. In summary, India and China's contrasting approaches to railway development and overall infrastructure signify the evolving dynamics of their geopolitical and strategic landscapes.

Prepared By

Riddhima Singh

Riddhima Singh is a final year student at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi, pursuing Chinese Honours course. Through her degree she has had the opportunity to dive into culture, history and contemporary issues in Chinese society through language and research. Her research area surrounds the economic and fiscal policies of Communist Party of China and China's development model.