Content: Nano-plastics identified as emerging agents in spread of antibiotic resistance E-Shram Portal: World’s Largest Database of Unorganised Workers Nano-Plastics Identified As Emerging Agents In Spread of Antibiotic Resistance Nanoplastics and Antibiotic Resistance (AR): Nanoplastics derived from Single-Use Plastic Bottles (SUPBs) contribute to the spread of AR genes. Relevance : GS 3(Environment ) Study highlights a critical yet underrecognized public health risk due to the dual threats of plastic pollution and AR. Study Overview: Conducted by Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Investigated the impact of Polyethylene Terephthalate Bottle-Derived Nanoplastics (PBNPs) on bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus acidophilus, a key component of the gut microbiome. Nanoplastics’ Role in AR Spread: Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT): PBNPs facilitate AR gene transfer between bacteria, especially from E. coli to Lactobacillus acidophilus via Outer Membrane Vesicle (OMV) secretion. Two mechanisms identified:Direct Transformation Pathway: PBNPs physically carry AR plasmids across bacterial membranes. OMV-Induced Transfer Pathway:PBNPs induce oxidative stress and surface damage in bacteria.Trigger stress response genes, increasing OMV secretion, which carries AR genes. Implications of Findings: Impact on Gut Microbiota: Nanoplastics may turn beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus into carriers of AR genes. Such bacteria could transfer AR genes to pathogens during infections. Highlights an overlooked threat to gut health and the human microbiome. Public Health Risks: Spread of AR genes could worsen the antibiotic resistance crisis. Maintaining microbiome integrity is crucial for immune function, digestion, and disease prevention. Recommendations: Policy and Guidelines: Develop and enforce stricter guidelines for plastic usage and waste management. Implement awareness programs to highlight the dangers of nanoplastic pollution. Plastic Management: Prioritize reduction in SUPBs and promote alternatives. Advocate for proper disposal and recycling methods to reduce environmental release of nanoplastics. Research and Awareness: Encourage further studies on the long-term effects of nanoplastics on microbial ecosystems. Spread awareness about nanoplastics’ potential role in facilitating AR. E-Shram Portal: World’s Largest Database of Unorganised Workers Introduction E-Shram Portal: A flagship initiative of the Ministry of Labour and Employment launched on 26th August 2021. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) Purpose: To create a comprehensive National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW) for effective policy implementation and targeted welfare delivery. Registration: Free of cost; available on www.eshram.gov.in, CSCs, and State Seva Kendras (SSKs). Budget Allocation: ₹704.01 crores (FY 2019-20 to FY 2024-25). Achievements: By December 19, 2024, over 30.48 crore registrations on the portal. Objectives Establish a centralized database of unorganized workers. Improve access to social security schemes. Facilitate job matching and skill development. Promote financial inclusion and direct benefit transfers (DBTs). Strengthen labor market resilience and integrate unorganized workers into the formal economy. Key Features Universal Account Number (UAN): Aadhaar-linked UAN for seamless benefit access. Streamlined Registration: Minimal documentation (Aadhaar, mobile number, bank details). Multilingual Support: Portal accessible in multiple languages. Grievance Redressal: Dedicated helpline for query resolution. Employment & Skill Integration: Access to jobs, skill development, and pension schemes. Support for Migrant Workers: Captures family details for welfare benefits. Data Sharing Portal (DSP): Secure sharing of beneficiary data with States/UTs for targeted welfare delivery. BOCW Welfare Boards: Data of construction workers shared with respective boards for access to relevant schemes. Eligibility Age: 16-59 years. Sector: Unorganised workers (self-employed, daily wage labourers, gig workers). Requirements: Aadhaar card, Aadhaar-linked mobile number, and bank account. Exclusion: Members of EPFO or ESIC. Key Developments Integration with Gati Shakti Portal: Links E-Shram with infrastructure projects for job opportunities. International Accolades: Geneva (112th ILC): Showcased as a best practice in labor market management. G20 Employment Working Group (EWG): Presented as the world’s largest database of unorganized workers. Integration with Central Schemes: Includes PM-SBY, PMJJBY, Ayushman Bharat, PM-SVANidhi, PMAY, MGNREGA, etc. Integrated Portals: National Career Service (NCS): Job matching. Skill India Digital: Skill enhancement and apprenticeships. PM-SYM: Pension scheme for unorganized workers. myScheme Portal: One-stop government scheme discovery. One-Stop Solution: Launched on 21st October 2024, integrating multiple welfare schemes into E-Shram for seamless benefit access. UMANG Mobile App Integration: Enables on-the-go registrations; 19,049 registrations via UMANG by December 19, 2024. Top 5 States by Registrations Uttar Pradesh: 8.37 crore. Bihar: 2.96 crore. West Bengal: 2.64 crore. Madhya Pradesh: 1.84 crore. Maharashtra: 1.73 crore. Significance Average Daily Registrations: 60,000 (October 2024). Impact: Addresses gaps in the labor market, empowers the unorganized workforce, and promotes equitable economic growth.

Content: Positive Direction Crimes Against Humanity and an Obtuse Indian Stance Should Legislatures in India Have Fixed Tenures? Positive Direction Context : First meeting of Special Representatives (SRs) since 2019. Resumed after a pause caused by the military standoff in 2020. Held as per the mandate set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping during October 2023 talks in Kazan. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Practice Question : In light of the recent revival of boundary talks between India and China, critically analyze the opportunities and challenges in fostering positive bilateral ties while safeguarding national interests.”(250 words) Milestone Developments: Ajit Doval’s visit to Beijing, the first since 2020, marked a thaw in high-level engagements. Focus on boundary dispute and resolution of Line of Actual Control (LAC) issues, spanning 3,500 km. Key Agreements and Renewed Initiatives: Restart of the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra and border trade in Sikkim. Data sharing on trans-boundary rivers. Potential restoration of ties in suspended sectors: Direct flights. Liberalisation of business and student visas. Journalist exchanges. Boundary Talks Outcomes Six Consensuses (China’s Perspective) and Positive Directions (India’s Perspective): Continued implementation of the LAC de-escalation process. Reaffirmation of the 2005 Eleven-article agreement to guide boundary resolution. Strengthened Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) at the border. Cross-border exchange enhancements for better bilateral relations. Improved coordination between: Special Representatives (SR) mechanism. Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC). Agreement to hold the next SR meeting in India (2025). Strategic Importance Timing: Meeting held ahead of 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2025. Aligns with India’s likely participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in China. Momentum in Engagement: Reflects renewed willingness to re-establishdialogue and functional mechanisms. Bilateral trade continued despite four years of military tensions, underscoring economic interdependence. Challenges and Cautions Security Concerns: Military transgressions by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in 2020. Risks of repetition if buffer zones are dismantled without restoring status quo ante. Transparency Issues: The need for clear and public communication about: Future steps in normalising relations. Progress on de-escalation and de-induction at the border. Mechanisms for preventing future aggression. Unresolved Issues: De-escalation and de-induction are incomplete processes. Restoration of status quo ante (pre-2020 situation) remains a key demand for India. Way Forward Comprehensive Resolution: Maintain focus on resolving the boundary dispute, guided by the 2005 agreement. Strengthen SR and WMCC frameworks for sustained dialogue. Trust-building Mechanisms: Expand Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) to reduce border tensions. Resume people-to-people connections to build goodwill. Strategic Vigilance: Ensure a robust deterrence strategy at the India-China boundary. Avoid situations leading to unilateral transgressions or escalation. Diplomatic Engagements: Leverage upcoming diplomatic milestones (SCO Summit, 75th anniversary) to ensure substantive progress. Balance economic interdependence with strategic caution. National Interest Prioritisation: Focus on transparency with the domestic audience to build trust in the government’s handling of China relations. Avoid hasty normalization until core security concerns are addressed.  Crimes Against Humanity And An Obtuse Indian Stance Context Adoption of Resolution: On December 4, 2024, the UNGA approved a resolution initiating negotiations for a treaty on crimes against humanity (CAH). Background: This step follows the International Law Commission’s (ILC) draft CAH treaty submitted to the UNGA in 2019, marking a significant milestone in combating impunity for CAH. Relevance : GS 2(Social Justice ) Practice Question : Explain the necessities of separate crimes against humanity treaty (CAH ) highlighting its advantages and implementational challenges .( 250 Words ) Understanding Crimes Against Humanity (CAH) Definition under the Rome Statute: Acts such as murder, extermination, enslavement, deportation, torture, imprisonment, and rape when part of a widespread or systematic attack against civilians. Existing Legal Frameworks: Genocide and war crimes have dedicated treaties (Genocide Convention, Geneva Conventions). CAH are governed only under the Rome Statute, creating a legal gap for accountability. Historical Codification: First defined in the 1945London Charter (Nuremberg Tribunal). Subsequently included in the statutes of international tribunals for Yugoslavia and Rwanda. Why a Dedicated CAH Treaty is Necessary Limitations of the ICC: ICC jurisdiction is restricted to member states, leaving perpetrators in non-member states unaccountable. Focuses only on individual responsibility, omitting state accountability. State Accountability: A CAH treaty would obligate state parties to prevent CAH, akin to the Genocide Convention. States failing to meet these obligations could face jurisdiction under the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Expanded Scope of CAH: Potential to include acts such as starvation, gender apartheid, forced pregnancy, terrorism, and crimes against indigenous populations. India’s Position on the CAH Treaty Non-Party to the Rome Statute: India has consistently objected to ICC provisions, including: ICC prosecutor’s powers. Role of the UN Security Council in referring cases. Exclusion of nuclear weapons and terrorism as CAH. Key Concerns with the CAH Treaty: Prefers inclusion of crimes only during armed conflicts, not peacetime. Opposes inclusion of “enforced disappearance” as CAH. Advocates for terrorism and use of nuclear weapons as CAH. Scepticism about Duplication: India argues that the CAH treaty may duplicate existing mechanisms under the Rome Statute. Asserts national legislation and courts as better suited to address CAH. India’s Domestic Challenges Lack of Domestic Legislation: India has no specific laws addressing CAH or genocide. Justice S. Muralidhar (2018): Highlighted the lacuna in India’s criminal law. Missed Opportunities: Recent amendments to India’s criminal law failed to include provisions for CAH. Reflects a lack of focus in domestic policy discourse on addressing international crimes. Consistency with Position: India’s insistence on domestic jurisdiction contrasts with its lack of relevant legal frameworks. Opportunities for India Incorporating CAH into Domestic Law: Enacting national legislation for CAH would align with India’s position on primacy of domestic jurisdiction. Strengthens accountability mechanisms for grave human rights violations. International Leadership: Adopting progressive policies on CAH would enhance India’s stature as a global leader in human rights advocacy. Expanding Definitions: India could push for inclusion of terrorism and nuclear weapon use in the CAH treaty, reflecting its national security priorities. Way Forward Policy Actions: Conduct in-depth studies to align CAH definitions with India’s concerns. Advocate for flexibility in treaty negotiations to include India’s priorities. Domestic Reforms: Amend penal laws to include CAH and other international crimes. Build institutional capacity to address violations at national and regional levels. Strategic Engagement: Leverage negotiations to shape treaty provisions reflecting India’s stance. Collaborate with like-minded states to influence definitions and mechanisms. Should Legislatures in India Have Fixed Tenures? Proposal: The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to align State Assemblies’ terms with the Lok Sabha and hold mid-term elections only for the remainder of the five-year term. Relevance : GS 2(Polity and Governance ) Practice Question : Evaluate the reasons in favour and against of simultaneous elections .(250 Words ) Governance and Stability: Proponents: Stability and focus on development. Critics: Regular elections enhance accountability. Federalism and Autonomy: Proponents: Standardizes election timings. Critics: May undermine State legislatures’ autonomy. Electoral Expenditure: Proponents: Reduces election costs. Critics: Savings may not lead to significant developmental investments. Political Instability: Proponents: Deters destabilization tactics. Critics: Needs complementary reforms to be effective. Global Models: UK: Fixed-term Parliaments Act led to constitutional crises. Germany: Constructive vote of no-confidence impractical in India. Political Plurality: Concerns: Simultaneous elections may favor one party. Evidence: Historical data dismisses this concern. Addressing Deadlocks: Provisions: Mid-term elections for political stalemates. Critics: Reduced tenure may compromise governance. Broader Implications: Erosion of Autonomy: Risks centralizing power. Flexibility vs. Stability: Fixed terms provide stability but need flexibility for political exigencies.

Content: Hizbul ‘Commander’ Among Five Militants Killed in Kulgam Clear Medical Waste Dumped in T.N., NGT Orders Kerala Govt. Delhi Government Imposes Ban on Firecrackers Throughout the Year Eklavya Schools Struggle to Meet 5% PVTG Sub-Quota; Dropouts on the Rise Never Events: Unacceptable Failures in Implementing Patient Safety Protocol Disability and Queer Health in Medical Education — India Under the Lens The Political Crisis in South Korea India Is Highest Tariff Major Economy Hizbul ‘Commander’ Among Five Militants Killed in Kulgam Five Hizbul Mujahideen militants, including ‘commander’ Farooq Ahmad Bhat, were killed in Kulgam, South Kashmir. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security ) Bhat was active since 2015 and played a key role in radicalizing youth and reviving terrorism in the region. The operation lasted around six hours and resulted in two security personnel being injured. The militants were hiding in the Kader area when security forces received a tip-off about their presence. The forces made contact with the militants around 3:30 a.m., leading to a gun battle. Five AK-47 rifles, two grenades, 20 magazines, and ammunition were recovered from the site. The Army sees Bhat’s killing as a significant success in counter-terrorism efforts. Bhat had 37 First Information Reports filed against him for his involvement in militant attacks. Brigadier Anirudh Chauhan praised local residents for their cooperation and providing critical information. Clear Medical Waste Dumped in T.N., NGT Orders Kerala govt. Immediate Action: NGT directed Kerala government and KSPCB to remove biomedical and mixed solid waste from Tamil Nadu villages within three days and submit a report by December 23. Relevance : GS 3( Waste Management ) Recurring Issue: Illegal dumping of biomedical waste from Kerala in Tamil Nadu has been a recurring problem, with previous incidents in Ana-malai and Nanguneri. Financial and Legal Implications: Kerala has not cleared outstanding dues of ₹69,000 for waste removal, complicating the issue; legal action is being pursued with two FIRs filed. Cross-Border Coordination: NGT emphasized improved coordination between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, involving police and transport departments to prevent illegal waste transportation. Environmental Impact: Some waste was dumped in forest areas, prompting NGT to urge swift action and proper transportation to processing facilities in Kerala or Tamil Nadu. Delhi Government Imposes Ban On Firecrackers Throughout The Year Year-round Ban: Delhi government imposes a permanent ban on all forms of firecrackers throughout the year. Relevance : GS 3( Pollution ) Previous Bans: Previously, bans were only imposed during winter months due to increased air pollution. Legal Basis: The ban is issued under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Scope: The ban covers manufacturing, storage, sale, and bursting of firecrackers, including online sales. Air Pollution: Aimed at reducing air pollution, especially during festive seasons when pollution spikes. Supreme Court Involvement: The Delhi government informed the Supreme Court about the ban, and the court directed other NCR states (U.P. and Haryana) to follow suit. Firecracker Dealers: Dealers expressed concerns over lack of consultation before the ban was imposed. Rajasthan’s Action: Rajasthan had already imposed a similar ban in its NCR areas on December 17 Eklavya schools struggle to meet 5% PVTG sub-quota; dropouts on the rise Introduction of Sub-Quota: The Centre introduced a 5% sub-quota for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in admissions to EMRS in 2020. Relevance : GS 2(Education , Governance) Current Enrollment: As of October 2024, there are 1,30,101 students enrolled in 407 functional EMRSs. PVTG Student Population: Only 4,480 students (3.4%) belong to PVTG communities, falling short of the 5% target. States Struggling: Madhya Pradesh (3.8%), Chhattisgarh (2.74%), and Gujarat (0.2%) are among the states struggling to meet the quota. Dropout Rates: The number of PVTG students dropping out has increased over the past three years: 10 in 2021-22, 14 in 2022-23, and 18 in 2023-24. Reasons for Dropout: Infrastructure gaps, teacher shortages, pressure to work for earning, and quality of education are cited as reasons for the dropouts. Centralized Administration: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) was set up in 2019 to centralize the administration of EMRSs. Government Response: The Tribal Affairs Ministry has acknowledged the challenges and is working on addressing them Never Events: Unacceptable Failures in Implementing Patient Safety Protocol Definition: Never events are serious, largely preventable incidents in healthcare that should never occur if proper safety protocols are followed. Relevance : GS 2(Health ) Origin: The term was introduced in 2002 by the National Quality Forum (NQF) in the United States and has since been adopted in countries like the U.S., U.K., and Canada. Examples: Operating on the wrong limb, insulin overdose, mismatched blood transfusion—these incidents can lead to severe consequences such as disability, death, or significant discomfort for patients. Variation in Lists: Different organizations maintain varying lists of never events—NHS (U.K.) lists 16 events, whereas the U.S. recognizes 29. This variation reflects the complexity of healthcare systems. Impact: Never events highlight systemic failures and the complexity of healthcare, involving multiple stakeholders and interactions between social, technical, human, organizational, economic, and regulatory components. Post-Event Protocol: Steps include offering an apology, formally reporting the incident, conducting a root cause analysis, and waiving any costs incurred due to the incident. Prevention Debate: While reducing the frequency of never events is possible, complete prevention remains aspirational due to the inherent complexities of healthcare systems. ALARP Principle: Adopting the As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) principle provides a balanced risk management approach to minimize these incidents. Challenges: Concentrating accountability on frontline healthcare workers fails to address systemic inefficiencies, infrastructure issues, and communication gaps that contribute to never events. Indian Context: In India, similar incidents are categorized under medical negligence rather than never events. Medical negligence involves failures to meet the expected standard of care, leading to harm. Disability And Queer Health in Medical Education — India under the lens NMC Allegation: The National Medical Commission (NMC) in India has been accused of not including disability and queer rights in its medical curriculum. Relevance : GS 2(Social Justice ) Global Context: Among 110 Lancet Commissions, only mental health and the Holocaust have dedicated commissions, with no specific commissions for disability or the queer community. India’s Curriculum Update: In 2019, disability rights were included as competencies in India’s new medical curriculum, recognized as a significant initiative by UN India. Human Rights Impact: The exclusion of these topics hampers human rights, as highlighted by Dr. Satendra Singh from the University of Delhi. Lancet Commissions: These are multidisciplinary collaborations aimed at influencing health policies through evidence-based recommendations. Statistics: India has a high number of road accident fatalities and is known as the “diabetes capital of the world,” contributing to disabilities through complications like gangrene and limb loss. Historical Mistrust: Both the disability and transgender communities have a history of mistrust towards the medical establishment, sharing vulnerabilities that contribute to health inequities. Importance of Inclusion: Including voices from these communities in Lancet Commissions is crucial for achieving the Agenda 2030 goal of “leaving no one behind.” Medical Education: India has the highest number of medical colleges globally, and many graduates work internationally. Educating future doctors on health inequities is vital to dismantling barriers. Discrimination and Marginalisation: Both groups face discrimination in healthcare settings, underscoring the need for doctors to treat patients as individuals, not merely symptoms. Inclusive Language: Prioritizing clear, consistent, and respectful language is essential for recognizing diversity and should be a shared responsibility. NMC’s Commitment: The NMC emphasizes improving access to quality, affordable medical education, promoting equitable healthcare, and upholding high ethical standards. Legal Perspective: The commentary suggests that the NMC’s actions could be seen as a dereliction of duty and potentially illegal under parent legislation. The Political Crisis in South Korea Yoon Suk Yeol’s Rise to Power: Former Prosecutor General, Yoon became President in 2022 despite limited political experience. Gained popularity for prosecuting former conservative Presidents, but his tenure has been controversial. Relevance : GS 2 (International Relations ) Political Divide in South Korea: Sharp ideological, regional, and generational divides between conservatives and liberals. This polarization has led to protests, political vendettas, and legal challenges against past Presidents. Controversial Foreign Policies: Yoon’s foreign policies, such as reaching out to Japan and supporting Ukraine, have strained relations with Russia, China, and SouthKoreanliberals. His decision to attend NATO summits and his stance on North Korea further alienated sections of the population. Domestic Challenges and Unpopularity: Low approval ratings (20%-30%) due to perceived incompetence and failure to address South Korea’s economic issues. Corruption scandals involving his wife and controversial policies, such as the doubling of medical student seats, worsened his image. Opposition Strengthens: In the April 2024 National Assembly elections, opposition parties won 192 out of 300 seats, challenging Yoon’s governance. Increased opposition assertion against Yoon’s policies and appointments. Martial Law Declaration: In December 2024, in response to growing opposition, Yoondeclaredemergency martial law. The National Assembly rejected it, forcing Yoon to withdraw the declaration by the following day. Impeachment Process: An initial impeachmentmotionfailed due to the ruling PPP’s abstention. A second impeachment motion on December 14, 2024, succeeded with 204 votes in favor. Yoon has refused to resign and plans to challenge the impeachment in the Constitutional Court. Legal Battle Ahead: The Constitutional Court will deliberate on the impeachment, but the outcome remains uncertain. Yoon hopes for a favorable ruling, although the court’s composition includes conservative-leaning judges. Weak Democratic Institutions: The crisis exposes weaknesses in South Korea’s democraticinstitutions, with immature political leadership and unstable governance. The ongoing political turmoil poses a threat to the country’s democratic integrity. Public Consensus on Democratic Crisis: Despite divisions, there is a sharedconcern about the existentialthreat to democracy. If the crisis remains unresolved, it could severely impact South Korea’s international image and democratic future. ‘India is Highest Tariff Major Economy’ Context : U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti labeled India as the “highest tariff” major economy globally. This comment highlights the need for both India and the U.S. to work together to lower tariffs for a fair and equal trade environment. Relevance : GS 2 (International Relations ) Call for Lower Tariffs: Garcetti emphasized the importance of reducing tariffs to boost trade between the two nations. He advocated for both countries to focus on creating a more balanced trade relationship. Bilateral Trade Growth: Despite ongoing challenges, the India-U.S. bilateral trade has increased ten-fold since 2001. The U.S. has become India’s number one trading partner, marking significant growth in economic ties. U.S. President-elect’s Remarks: President-elect Donald Trump previously criticized India for imposing high tariffs on U.S. products. Trump has also threatened to impose reciprocal tariffs as retaliation for India’s trade policies. Need for Honest Conversations: Garcetti stressed the importance of having open and honest conversations to address tariff-related issues. He called for deeper negotiations to resolve trade difficulties, while recognizing the growth in trade despite challenges. Focus on Training and Talent: The U.S. Ambassador emphasized the need for both nations to align their talent and training to meet the needs of companies operating across the Indo-Pacific region. Trump’s “Tariff King” Label: President Trump has repeatedly called India a “tariff king,” criticizing the high tariffs on American imports. This rhetoric underscores the ongoing trade tension between the two countries.