Posts

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 24 February 2025

Content: Update on TB- Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Update on TB- Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Campaign Overview. Objective: Intensify TB case detection, early diagnosis, and treatment to achieve TB elimination goals. Strategy: Focus on early detection through mass screening and the use of advanced diagnostic tools. Community and private sector engagement to close the “missing” TB cases gap. Key Achievements (as of February 22, 2025) Patient Notifications: Over 5.1 lakh TB patients notified since campaign launch. 455 intervention districts: Diagnosed 3.57 lakh TB patients. 2024 total notifications: Over 26 lakh TB patients, bridging the gap in missing TB cases. Private sector contribution: 36% of total notifications, reflecting improved collaboration. Screening and Diagnostic Efforts: Over 10 crore vulnerable individuals screened. Use of ultraportable hand-held X-ray machines facilitated door-to-door and congregate setting screenings. Over 38 lakh people screened using chest X-rays, detecting asymptomatic and symptomatic cases. Confirmation testing: Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) employed post-X-ray screenings. Ni-kshay Initiatives: Conducted over 10 lakh Ni-kshay Shivirs to increase accessibility to diagnostic services. Deployed 836 Ni-kshay Vahans to enhance reach in remote areas. Ni-kshay Mitras: 2.4 lakh individuals registered to provide nutritional, psychosocial, and vocational support. 2.3 lakh food baskets distributed to TB patients. Focus on High-Risk Populations Priority groups for screening: Diabetics, smokers, alcoholics. People living with HIV, those with a past history of TB. Geriatric population and household contacts of TB patients. Screening included both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals, addressing sub-clinical TB cases. Government & Community Engagement Whole-of-government approach: Union Minister held meetings with Chief Ministers, Cabinet Ministers, and 22 ministries. High-level administrative officers designated to ensure cross-departmental coordination. Parliamentary involvement: Over 250 parliamentarians attended sensitization sessions for campaign awareness and support. Community participation through Jan Bhagidaari approach: Promoted Ni-kshay Shapaths encouraging citizens, NGOs, and corporates to contribute.  Innovative Strategies & Interventions Early Identification Tools: Ultraportable X-rays expedited diagnosis in rural and remote areas. NAAT ensured accurate and quick confirmation of TB cases. Accelerated Case Detection: Reduced diagnostic delays and enhanced early detection of drug-resistant TB cases. Differentiated Care: Focused on critical cases needing immediate care, including hospital admissions for undernourished patients. Preventive TB Treatment: Extended to vulnerable populations to curb TB transmission chains. Outcomes & Impact Reduction in TB Incidence: Identification of asymptomatic TB cases prevented community transmission. Early detection and treatment contributed to lowering mortality rates. Private Sector Engagement: Sustained collaboration with private healthcare providers expanded notification coverage. Progress towards TB Elimination: Accelerated efforts bringing India closer to its 2025 TB elimination target. Key Takeaways Holistic approach: Integration of government machinery, private healthcare, and community efforts. Technological interventions: Use of modern tools like ultraportable X-rays improved early detection. Strong community involvement: Ni-kshay initiatives enhanced patient support systems. Policy success: Increased private sector notifications reflect effective engagement strategies. Challenges & Way Forward Sustaining momentum beyond the 100-day campaign. Ensuring treatment adherence and completion to prevent relapse and drug resistance. Further strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure for uninterrupted TB services. Expanding nutrition and psychosocial support to improve treatment outcomes.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 24 February 2025

Content: Indian industry needs innovation, not mindless toil Talent shortage — global challenge, India’s opportunity Indian industry needs innovation, not mindless toil Over-Reliance on Cheap Labour Indian industry relies heavily on cheap labour rather than investing in technology and innovation. This over-dependence restricts long–term competitiveness and global market share. Example: Despite being labour-surplus, India’s garment export share has stagnated at 3.1% over two decades. Relevance : GS 3(Economy) Practice Question : With an over-reliance on cheap labour, Indian industry risks long-term stagnation. Critically examine the statement in the context of global competitiveness and domestic welfare. (250 Words) Excessive Working Hours with Low Productivity Average weekly work hours in India: 46.7 hours (ILO, 2024), higher than the U.S. (38 hours) and Japan (36.6 hours). Longer hours don’t translate into higher productivity due to lack of technological upgrades and poor working conditions. Migrant workers often work 11–12 hours daily with no adequate breaks. Dominance of Informal Employment Only 21.7% of workers hold regular salaried jobs; the rest are either casual or self-employed. Even among regular workers, ~50% lack job security, written contracts, or social security. High informalization leads to worker exploitation and poor quality of employment. Structural Shift to the Unorganised Sector India’s manufacturing workforce: 70% in small, unregistered enterprises with fewer than 10 workers. Shift from organised to unorganised sectors driven by large firms seeking to bypass labour regulations. Small firms face delayed payments, suppressed prices, and lack adequate credit, weakening their viability. Contract Labour and Migrant Dependence Post-2011-12: 56% of new factory jobs filled through contract labour. Contract workers receive lower wages and no labour protection. Migrant workers’ vulnerability stems from social disadvantages and lack of social security. Profit Over Wages: Post-COVID Trends Factory sector profit share rose from 31.6% (2019-20) to 46.4% (2021-22). Wage suppression has benefited corporate profits but weakened domestic consumption. Innovation Deficit and Global Competitiveness Indian industries, including garments, resist modernisation despite global competitors innovating rapidly. Bangladesh and Vietnam have outperformed India by adopting technology and improving productivity. Reliance on cheap labour deters technological investments crucial for sustained growth. Long-term Consequences of Labour Exploitation Low wages and long hours reduce workers’ purchasing power, stifling domestic demand. Short-term profit focus undermines sustainable industrial growth and global competitiveness. Without innovation, India risks being trapped in a low-productivity, low-wage cycle. Way Forward Invest in Technology: Prioritise automation and process innovations. Formalise Employment: Improve job security and ensure labour rights. Strengthen MSMEs: Provide better credit access and ensure fair payment practices. Enhance Worker Skills: Implement vocational training aligned with technological advancements. Revamp Labour Laws: Balance worker welfare with industrial growth needs. Talent shortage — global challenge, India’s opportunity Context : Global Talent Shortage: Scope and Impact Magnitude of shortage: By 2030, the global skilled labour shortage is projected at 85.2 million workers, risking an $8.45 trillion loss in potential revenue. Economic impact: Equivalent to the combined GDPs of Germany and Japan, highlighting the global economic consequences of unaddressed skill gaps. Sectoral demands: Healthcare: High global demand due to aging populations. Manufacturing & Construction: Critical in GCC & Australia. Services Sector: Dominant in Europe. Emerging Technologies: Skills in AI, IoT, blockchain, predictive analytics are increasingly vital. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , international Relations) ,  GS 3 (Employment) Practice Question : With the global talent shortage projected to reach 85.2 million by 2030, how can India leverage this opportunity to position itself as a leading supplier of skilled labour? Discuss the challenges and strategies involved.(250 Words) India’s Opportunity in the Global Labour Market Demographic advantage: India has a youthful workforce amid global aging populations. Potential economic boost: By tapping into the global talent gap, India can progress toward the $9 trillion GDP projection by 2030. Indian diaspora strength: Second largest diaspora in Australia. Resilience against anti-immigration sentiments globally, owing to positive perceptions. Key Destination Geographies & Workforce Needs Region Primary Demands Emerging Needs GCC Manufacturing, Construction Automation, AI, Resource efficiency Europe Services (Healthcare focus) Predictive analytics, Sustainability Australia Manufacturing, Healthcare Big data, IoT, Management skills Existing Barriers to Skilled Workforce Mobility Regulatory & Immigration: Complex visa processes and strict work permit norms. Uncertain immigration policies, especially in Europe. Recruitment Malpractices: Exploitation & trafficking highlighted in global forums. Fraudulent agents targeting low-skilled workers. Skill Recognition Issues: Indian medical degrees not uniformly recognised in Europe. Language & Cultural Barriers: Integration challenges lowering productivity abroad. India’s Initiatives and Policy Measures Bilateral & Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Agreements with GCC nations ensure worker rights. India-UAE Vision for skill cooperation. Skill Development Initiatives: Sector-specific training to meet global standards. Alignment with emerging sectors (AI, automation). Digital Platforms: Legal recruitment facilitation to curb fraud. Strategic Measures for India Short-term Measures: Streamline recruitment processes with transparent guidelines. Promote temporary work visas for circular migration. Medium-term Measures: Mutual recognition agreements for degrees and certifications. Focus on public-private partnerships for targeted skill training. Long-term Measures: Invest in AI, automation, and sustainability-oriented skills. Encourage rotational workforce models for demographic balance. India’s Competitive Edge Minimal global hostility toward Indian skilled workers. Established diaspora networks facilitating smooth workforce integration. Rapid policy responsiveness to global market shifts. Link to India’s Economic Goals (Viksit Bharat 2047) Tapping global demand can catalyse India’s goal of achieving a $9 trillion GDP by 2030. Workforce export can complement domestic employment generation through remittances and skill upgradation.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 24 February 2025

Content: A new age of imperialism What has SC previously ruled on gag orders? Why has the UGC-CARE list of journals been discontinued? Women achievers to take charge of PM’s social media accounts for a day Health Ministry bans export of drugs containing Tapentadol, Carisoprodol Why personal accident insurance is a lifeline First detailed map of moon’s south pole made from Chandrayaan data A new age of imperialism Context : Decline of the Rules-Based International Order The post-WWII order, founded on economic integration, collective security, and self-determination, is weakening. The U.S., once its key proponent, now repudiates UN Charter principles, especially after the second Trump presidency. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations , Global Governance) Historical Context of the World Order Formation (1941-1945): U.S., U.K., Soviet Union, and China established collective security (Four Policemen concept). Yalta Conference (1945): Inclusion of France; spheres of influence implicitly accepted (e.g., Soviet control in Eastern Europe). Despite flaws, institutions like the UN and Bretton Woods fostered predictable international relations. Trump’s Disruption of Global Norms Withdrew from key agreements (Paris Agreement, WHO). Imposed unilateral tariffs, disrupting global trade. Pursuing nationalist policies, focusing on U.S. hemispheric dominance. U.S.-Russia Rapprochement and Ukraine Crisis Trump bypasses Ukraine in peace talks; labels Zelenskyy a dictator. Concessions to Russia (e.g., no NATO troops in Ukraine) undermine European security. European reliance on NATO now challenged; forced to rethink defense strategies. Resurgence of Spheres of Influence U.S. refocuses on the Western Hemisphere and West Asia. Russia gains a freer hand in Europe; seeks to reclaim imperial-era territories. China eyes Taiwan amid waning U.S. presence in East Asia. Implications for India and the Region China’s historical claims (e.g., McMahon Line dispute) raise regional security concerns. India faces heightened insecurity with shifting global alignments and China’s assertiveness. Emerging World Order: Might Over Right Multilateralism gives way to power politics and territorial ambitions. The global system transitions from cooperation to competition and coercion. What has SC previously ruled on gag orders? Context : Ranveer Allahbadia Case Overview: SC granted interim protection from arrest (Feb 18) in FIRs related to alleged obscenity on his YouTube show India Got Latent. Stringent conditions imposed: Prohibited from posting on social media until further orders. Directed to surrender passport. These conditions contrast previous SC caution against undue restrictions while granting relief. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary ,Polity ) Allahbadia’s Plea: Filed under Article 32 for fundamental rights protection. Sought consolidation of FIRs from Maharashtra, Assam, and Rajasthan to prevent harassment. Precedent: In Parteek Bansal v. State of Rajasthan (2022), SC criticized multiple FIRs for the same offence as harassment. Interim Relief Conditions: No statutory guidelines; judges use discretion based on: Flight Risk: Potential of absconding. Intimidation of Witnesses: Possibility of threats. Tampering with Evidence: Risk of interfering with investigation. Usual conditions: passport surrender, high bail bonds, mandatory police appearances. SC cautions against disproportionate restrictions: Satender Kumar Antil v. CBI (2022): Conditions “impossible of compliance” defeat bail’s purpose. Frank Vitus v. NCB (2024): Google Maps PIN sharing deemed unconstitutional; violates Article 21 privacy rights. Gag Orders & SC’s Prior Rulings: Allahbadia’s content ban is a prior restraint—restricting speech before it occurs. SC’s free speech stance: Rehana Fathima Case (2021): Kerala HC’s social media ban stayed. Mohammed Zubair Case (2021): Request to restrict tweets rejected; gag orders create a “chilling effect” on speech and hinder profession. Principle: Prior restraints permissible only in exceptional cases to balance freedom of speech and justice. Why has the UGC-CARE list of journals been discontinued? Background: The UGC-CARE list, introduced in 2018, aimed to recognize reputable academic journals for faculty selection, promotions, and research funding. On February 2024, the UGC discontinued the list, replacing it with 36 suggestive parameters under eight criteria for evaluating journals. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Education ) New Suggestive Parameters (36 under 8 Criteria): Journal Preliminary Criteria: Title, ISSN, periodicity, transparency in review policy. Editorial Board Criteria: Availability and composition details of editorial board. Editorial Policy: Ethical publishing standards and peer-review process. Journal Standards: Consistency, citation practices, and quality indicators. Journal Visibility: Indexing, reach, and accessibility. Research Ethics: Measures against plagiarism and predatory practices. Why did UGC withdraw the CARE list? Criticisms of CARE List: Over-centralisation: Excessive control in journal recognition decisions. Delays: Slow process in adding or removing journals. Limited Representation: Exclusion of respected Indian language journals. Lack of Transparency: Opaque decision-making processes. UGC’s Justifications for New Approach: Decentralisation: Institutions can develop their own evaluation mechanisms aligned with UGC parameters. Flexibility: Allows consideration of discipline-specific needs and emerging fields. Combating Predatory Journals: Places responsibility on HEIs to ensure publication quality. Response & Concerns: Students’ Federation of India (SFI): Condemned the move, citing lack of consultation with academic communities. Feared proliferation of low-quality journals without central oversight. Warned of academic integrity erosion and inconsistent evaluation processes. Broader Concerns: Part of deregulation trend under NEP 2020. Risk of arbitrary journal evaluations by different institutions. Women achievers to take charge of PM’s social media accounts for a day Women Achievers & International Women’s Day (March 8) PM Narendra Modi to hand over his social media accounts to women achievers for a day. Aim: Allow women from diverse fields to share insights and inspire others. Initiative highlights the role of Nari Shakti (women power) in nation-building. Reference to Hansa Mehta’s contribution to the national flag and women’s role in the freedom struggle. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) Space Sector Growth & Women Participation India launched around 460 satellites in the past decade, including foreign ones. Increasing involvement of women scientists in ISRO and space missions. Encourages youth to explore careers in science through visits to labs and planetariums. Focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) India’s progress in AI recognized at an international conference in Paris. Example: Thodasam Kailash, a schoolteacher using AI to create music in the Kolami language. National Games & Youth Achievements Over 11,000 athletes participated in the Uttarakhand National Games. Rise of teenage sports champions: Gavin Antony (15) – Shooting Anushka Yadav (16) – Hammer throw Dev Kumar Meena (19) – Pole vault Wildlife Conservation & Cultural Significance Emphasis on the cultural connection with wildlife in Indian traditions. Appreciation for tribal communities’ role in protecting wildlife. Health Ministry bans export of drugs containing Tapentadol, Carisoprodol Context : Export Ban on Tapentadol-Carisoprodol Combinations Health Ministry banned the export of unapproved combination drugs containing Tapentadol and Carisoprodol. Action taken after reports of Aveo Pharmaceuticals (Mumbai) exporting these drugs to certain West African countries. Relevance : GS 2(Health, Governance) Drug Profiles Tapentadol: Opioid used for moderate to severe pain; approved in various tablet forms (50-200 mg). Carisoprodol: Muscle relaxant targeting pain centers in the brain and spinal cord. The combination is not approved in India and not listed under the NDPS Act. Regulatory Actions & Compliance Measures CDSCO and State regulators initiated risk-based inspections since December 2022: 905 manufacturing units inspected. 694 regulatory actions taken (including production halts, licence suspensions, and warnings). Aveo Pharmaceuticals audited (Feb 21-22); operations halted following non-compliance findings. Seizure & Preventive Measures Seized materials: 1.3 crore tablets/capsules. 26 batches of Tapentadol and Carisoprodol APIs. Maharashtra FDA ordered immediate production stop and withdrawal of export NoCs. Nationwide instructions issued to prevent further distribution of the unapproved combination. Why personal accident insurance is a lifeline Context : Rising Accident Rates in India (2023-24) Road accidents: ~1.73 lakh deaths, 4.63 lakh injuries in 2023. Home accidents: Falls: 30% Burns: 20% Accidental poisoning: 15% Drowning (mainly children): 10% Workplace accidents (2024): 400+ deaths, 850+ serious injuries. Adventure sports risks: Activities like trekking, rafting, and paragliding contribute to rising accident numbers. Relevance : GS 2(Health ) Why Personal Accident Insurance is Vital Provides a financial safety net against sudden accidents. Affordability: Cheaper than health or life insurance; accessible to all income groups. Key Benefits of Personal Accident Insurance Accidental death/permanent disability cover: Fixed payout ensures financial stability for dependents. Support for dependents: Education and marriage funds for children, widows, and parents. Medical expense coverage: Hospitalisation costs covered. Lump sum benefits for burns, broken bones, or coma. Recovery support: Coverage for home/vehicle modifications. Expenses for prostheses, wheelchairs, crutches. Income protection: Payouts during recovery to offset lost wages. Debt coverage: Some policies cover outstanding loans if the policyholder is a breadwinner. Emergency services: Air ambulance for remote-area accidents. Exclusions & Premium Factors Exclusions: Self-inflicted injuries, suicide attempts. Accidents under alcohol/drug influence. Injuries from criminal activities or high-risk sports. Pre-existing conditions/disabilities. Premium determination: High-risk jobs (e.g., miners, factory workers) attract higher premiums than office jobs. Bottom Line: Personal accident insurance is an affordable, crucial safeguard against unexpected financial burdens arising from accidents across various environments (road, home, work, or adventure). Understanding coverage details and exclusions is vital for making informed choices. First detailed map of moon’s south pole made from Chandrayaan data Context : First-ever detailed geological map of the moon’s south polar region created using Chandrayaan-3’s Pragyan rover data. Collaborative effort by PRL Ahmedabad, Panjab University, and ISRO’s Laboratory for Electro-Optics Systems. Focused on Vikram lander’s site (landed August 23, 2023) revealing an undulating landscape of highlands and low plains. Relevance : GS 3(Science , Technology) Major Scientific Findings: Primordial magma presence confirmed: Chandrayaan-3 detected an ancient underground ocean of molten rock beneath the landing site. Confirms earlier suspicions from Apollo, Luna, and Chang’e missions but provides first polar region data. Age of the region: Estimated at 3.7 billion years, coinciding with early microbial life emergence on Earth. Cratering history: Secondary craters traced to the Schomberger crater as the primary debris source. Landed near the South Pole–Aitken Basin, one of the oldest and largest craters in the solar system. Earth-Moon Evolutionary Links: Common origin theory supported: Earth and moon possibly formed from debris after a Mars-sized body collided with Earth 4.5 billion years ago. Geochemical similarities: Presence of common isotopes and aligned orbital inclinations. Environmental Concerns: Lunar littering and contamination risks: Decades of space missions have left debris, affecting the regolith and thin lunar exosphere. Water vapour exhaust from landers may skew lunar ice readings at the poles. Colonisation efforts could further disturb the pristine lunar surface and hinder future scientific studies. Scientific Significance: Helps date geological features on other rocky planets using crater analysis. Provides new insights into the moon’s formation, evolution, and internal structure. Crucial for future lunar exploration and resource management strategies.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 22 February 2025

Content: Biodiversity to Bioeconomy Ministry of Mines classifies Barytes, Felspar, Mica and Quartz as Major Minerals Biodiversity to Bioeconomy Context & Importance of Biotechnology in NER North East Region (NER) of India: Rich in biodiversity, cultural heritage, and natural resources. Biotechnology acts as a catalyst for: Sustainable economic growth Preservation of natural and cultural heritage Employment generation through bio-entrepreneurship Climate-resilient agriculture and health innovations Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) , GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Department of Biotechnology’s (DBT) North Eastern Programme Budget Allocation: Since 2010, 10% of DBT’s annual budget allocated to NER-focused programmes. Objectives: Harness endemic bioresources Promote biotech education and research Create local employment via bio-based enterprises Major Programmes Under NER A. Capacity Building & Education Initiatives Twinning R&D Programme (2010-11): Collaboration between 65+ NER institutions & leading national institutes Supported ~650 R&D projects, benefiting ~450 researchers and 2000 students Biotech Hubs (Since 2011): Established 126 hubs across NER for biotech research and education Phase-II: 54 hubs focusing on local issues and specialized research Biotechnology Labs in Senior Secondary Schools (BLiSS) (2014): Established labs to cultivate biotech interest at school level Visiting Research Professorship (VRP) Programme (2015): Leveraged expertise of eminent scientists to uplift local biotech education Specialized Training Programmes: Chemical Ecology Programme (2015): Tailored training for PhD and postdoc researchers with institutes like NCBS, IISc. Genomics-Driven Research in Human Health (2016):Comprehensive workshops for biomedical research, molecular genetics, and clinical sample handling. B. Agriculture & Farmers-Focused Initiatives DBT-North East Centre for Agricultural Biotechnology (NECAB) – Phase III: Enhanced services to farmers; supported research on crop resilience and productivity Citrus Research & Development: Established facilities at Institute of Horticulture Technology, Assam Developed disease-free rootstocks for Khasi mandarin and sweet orange Medicinal Plant Cultivation: Cultivated 64.1 acres with crops like Curcuma caesia and high-value lemongrass Trained 649 farmers and entrepreneurs in sustainable farming practices Value Addition to Indigenous Fruits: Explored Docynia indica (Assam apple) for products like jams, pickles, and juices Conducted awareness campaigns in tribal communities of Assam and Meghalaya Major Achievements & Innovations Agricultural Innovations: Bacterial Blight-resistant Rice Variety “Patkai“: Developed by Assam Agricultural University Combines resistance with flood tolerance (Ranjeet Sub1 background) Veterinary & Livestock Innovations: Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) for Brucellosis Detection: Rapid detection tool with high sensitivity for livestock disease management Digital & Technological Solutions: Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES): Mobile app aiding pig disease diagnosis Available on Google Playstore; improves veterinary outreach and farm productivity Broader Impacts & Sustainable Growth Biodiversity Preservation: Sustainable use of medicinal and indigenous plant resources Economic Upliftment: Boost in local income via bio-entrepreneurship and product diversification Educational Empowerment: Enhanced research opportunities and skill development in biotechnology Environmental Sustainability: Focus on eco-friendly agriculture and disease-resistant crops Community Engagement: Active involvement of farmers, tribal communities, and students in biotech projects Way Forward Strengthen partnerships between local institutions and national/global biotech leaders Expand biotech solutions in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability Foster community–driven bio–entrepreneurship for long-term economic resilience Ministry of Mines classifies Barytes, Felspar, Mica and Quartz as Major Minerals Background and Policy Context Notification: Issued by the Ministry of Mines on 20th February 2025 through a gazette notification. Reclassification: Minerals Barytes, Felspar, Mica, and Quartz moved from minor to major minerals category. Policy Alignment: Follows the National Critical Mineral Mission approved by the Union Cabinet on 29th January 2025, aimed at self-reliance in critical minerals. Relevance : GS 3(Mines and Minerals) Rationale Behind Reclassification Critical Minerals Exploration: Quartz, Felspar, and Mica are found in pegmatite rocks—rich sources of critical minerals like Lithium, Beryl, Niobium, Tantalum, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten. Baryte is associated with ores of Antimony, Cobalt, Copper, Lead, Manganese, and Silver. Under-Reporting Issue: Under minor mineral leases, critical minerals were overlooked as the focus was on using primary minerals for construction, glass, ceramics, etc. Leaseholders did not declare or extract associated critical minerals, leading to loss of strategic resources. Economic and Strategic Significance: Critical minerals are vital for: Energy transition technologies (e.g., lithium for batteries) Spacecraft industries (lightweight, heat-resistant materials) Healthcare sector (advanced diagnostic devices) Baryte’s use in oil and gas drilling, radiation shielding, electronics, and construction materials underscores its industrial relevance. Implications of Major Mineral Classification Enhanced Regulation and Exploration: Mines to be regulated by the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) for scientific mining practices. Increased exploration expected due to stricter compliance and higher investment incentives. Lease Period Extension: Existing leases will not be adversely affected. Major mineral leases: Extended up to 50 years under Section 8A of the MMDR Act, 1957. Revenue and Federal Dynamics: Revenue sharing pattern unchanged; states continue to accrue mining revenues. Transition Period: Four-month window provided until 30th June 2025 for operational adjustments. Key Benefits of the Move Strategic Autonomy: Reduces dependence on imports of critical minerals crucial for energy and technology sectors. Resource Optimization: Promotes co-mining of associated minerals, ensuring better resource utilization. Boost to Industries: Enhances the supply chain for renewable energy, electronics, defense, and healthcare industries. Environmental Considerations: Scientific mining practices to reduce environmental degradation and improve sustainability. Challenges and Considerations Operational Readiness: Mines and leaseholders must adapt to stricter IBM compliance norms. Environmental and Social Concerns: Scaling exploration may pose ecological challenges; needs careful Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA). Capacity Building: States and private players need to upgrade mining technology and exploration techniques. Way Forward Focus on Sustainable Mining: Balance economic gains with environmental protection and community welfare. Promote Innovation: Encourage use of advanced mining technologies for efficient resource extraction. Enhance Private Sector Participation: Attract investments through policy stability and ease of doing business measures. Monitor Critical Mineral Supply Chains: Develop strategies for long-term mineral security to support India’s energy and technological ambitions.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 22 February 2025

Content: Converting court case backlogs into treasure troves Judges’ dilemma Converting court case backlogs into treasure troves Context: India’s judicial system is plagued by massivecasebacklogs: Supreme Court: ~82,000 cases pending High Courts: ~62 lakh cases pending Lower Courts: ~5 crore cases pending, with ~50 lakh cases pending for over a decade. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary) Practice Question : Judicial backlog in India poses a significant challenge to the delivery of timely justice. Critically examine the causes of this backlog and evaluate how mediation can serve as an effective solution. Suggest measures to institutionalize mediation in the Indian judicial system. (250 words) Key Issues Leading to Backlog: Adversarial System: Involves multiple interim applications and appeals. Judge-Population Ratio: One of the world’s lowest — 21 judges per million people. Government as a Litigant: Accounts for nearly 50% of all cases. Infrastructure Deficiencies: Insufficient physical infrastructure, finances, and human resources. Mediation as a Solution: What is Mediation? A confidential, neutral, and non-adversarial method of dispute resolution. Advantages: Faster resolutions (few sessions vs. years of litigation). Cost-effective for both courts and parties. Preserves relationships unlike traditional litigation. Encouraging Trends: Increasing acceptance since 2005. Thousands of trained mediators available. Challenges in Implementation: Primary Identification of Cases: Need for effective classification and referral to mediation. Public Perception: Mediation still seen as secondary to court rulings. Incentives and Infrastructure: Adequate remuneration and formal structures necessary. Way Forward: Institutionalize mediation at all court levels. Make mediation the first step before litigation in civil and commercial disputes. Government should reduce its litigation footprint and promote out-of-court settlements. Enhance public awareness and trust in mediation. Judges’ dilemma Context: The editorial addresses the tension between judicial independence and accountability, arising from the Lokpal’s ruling that High Court judges fall under its jurisdiction, and the Supreme Court’s immediate stay on the order. Key Issue: Whether judges, as public servants under the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA), can be subjected to external scrutiny without compromising judicial independence. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary) Practice Question: Judicial independence is a cornerstone of democracy, but it must be balanced with accountability to maintain public trust. Critically examine the challenges in ensuring judicial accountability in India while safeguarding judicial independence. Suggest suitable reforms. (250 words) Lokpal’s Stand: High Court judges are under the Lokpal’s jurisdiction per Section 14 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. High Courts, established by state statutes, are considered statutory bodies, making judges “public servants.” Contrarily, the Supreme Court is established by the Constitution, thus not under the Lokpal’s purview. Supreme Court’s Response: Stayed the Lokpal’s decision suo motu (on its own motion). Concern: Judicial independence could be compromised if external bodies investigate constitutional court judges. Legal Precedent – K. Veeraswami vs Union of India (1991): Judges are public servants under PCA. No FIR against a sitting judge without the Chief Justice of India’s (CJI) approval. Ensures a balance: Judges aren’t immune from law, yet the judiciary’s functioning remains unhampered. Existing Accountability Mechanisms: In-house procedure: Initiated by CJI, High Court CJ, or President on complaints. Actions: Request for resignation, curtailing judicial work, transfers, or parliamentary removal. Criticism: Lack of transparency; reasons for transfers often undisclosed. Way Forward: Need for an effective mechanism balancing independence with accountability. Consider independent prosecution under judicial supervision for credible corruption charges. Safeguards to prevent frivolous complaints while ensuring public trust in the judiciary. Criticism : Judicial Independence: Essential for impartial decision-making, a basic structure element of the Constitution (Article 50). External probes may create a chilling effect, deterring judges from making bold decisions. Need for Accountability: Independence isn’t immunity. Judicial corruption erodes public trust; an opaque system fosters impunity. Institutional Integrity vs Public Interest: Striking a balance is complex; neither extreme serves justice. An in-house procedure with external oversight (without direct interference) could be a middle path. International Practices: Some countries have independent judicial commissions ensuring both accountability and autonomy. India can adapt such models, ensuring constitutional sanctity is upheld.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 22 February 2025

Contents NMC’s Guidelines for Disabled Candidates Arbitrary, Rules SC Concept of Sexual Equality Must Be Part of Syllabus: SC Amid Growing Threat from Drones, Army to Strengthen Its Air Defence Assam: Move to Recognise Bathouism Highlights Government Commitment to Preserve Nature-Based Faiths Restoring Land, Restoring Peace: How Sustainable Land Management Can Ease Global Conflicts NMC’s guidelines for disabled candidates arbitrary, rules SC Background: The Supreme Court ruled against the National Medical Commission’s (NMC) eligibility criteria requiring MBBS candidates to have “both hands intact, with intact sensation and sufficient strength.” The case involved a candidate with 50% locomotor and 20% speech disability who cleared NEET but was denied admission by the NMC’s Assessment Board. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues) Court’s Observations: The criterion was termed arbitrary, ableist, and contrary to the Constitution. Justice Viswanathan highlighted that such requirements violate: Article 41: Right to work, education, and public assistance. Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act. UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The judgment criticized the “a” approach, stressing reasonable accommodation for disabled candidates. Key Rulings: Directed NMC to revise guidelines and submit a report by March 3. Allowed the candidate’s admission to Government Medical College, Sirohi, Rajasthan. Significance: Upholds the constitutional and human rights of persons with disabilities. Reinforces the principle of inclusion and non-discrimination in medical education. Sets a precedent for addressing ableism in statutory regulations. Implications: Medical institutions must adapt to inclusive admission policies. Promotes broader discussion on accessibility in professional fields. Paves the way for policy reforms supporting disabled aspirants. Concept of sexual equality must be part of syllabus: SC Background: The Supreme Court asked the Centre to incorporate sexual equality, moral and ethical training, and etiquette into the school syllabus. The Bench was led by Justice B.V. Nagarathna with Justice S.C. Sharma. Relevance : GS 2(Education ,Social Issues) Court’s Observations: Moral education is often neglected in schools; needs mandatory inclusion. Equality between sons and daughters must begin at home—parents should avoid gender-based discrimination. Society still holds misogynistic beliefs, marginalizing women post-marriage. Petitioner’s Argument: Senior advocate Aabad Ponda highlighted: Lack of early education on gender equality contributes to rising crimes against women. 50% of the population (women) face insecurity and societal strain. Advertisements and visual media should promote zero tolerance for rape and awareness of stringent laws. Harsher punishments alone are not sufficient; mindset change is crucial. Court’s Directions: Ordered the Union government to submit measures taken to introduce sexual equality in the curriculum. Recalled how Environmental Science became a mandatory subject through SC orders—moral education should follow suit. Key Takeaways: Early education can combat gender bias and violence against women. Public awareness campaigns through media and cinema halls recommended. Calls for long-term solutions over knee-jerk punitive measures. Implications: Focus on mindset change rather than solely on stricter punishments. Schools expected to play a central role in promoting gender sensitivity. Reinforces the importance of gender parity for societal progress. Amid growing threat from drones, Army to strengthen its air defence Background: Growing use of drones, loitering munitions, and disruptive technologies has escalated aerial threats. Recent conflicts like the Ukraine war highlight the challenge of quantifying and countering drone-based threats. Relevance : GS 3(Technology) Army’s Key Initiatives: Induction of new fragmentation ammunition for ~1,300 air defence guns (L-70 & Zu-23). Air burst ammunition, laser, and microwave weapons in procurement pipeline. Smart ammunition and high-end air defence upgrades underway. QRSAM System Development: Indigenous Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) contract finalization in 4-5 months. Developed by DRDO with a 30 km range. First Prototype Model (FoPM) expected 12 months post-contract; full production in 18 months. Planned in both wheeled and tracked configurations. Akash Missile Enhancement: Enhanced Akash missile to undergo high-altitude trials in the next 45 days. Future Plans: Tender issued for 30mm fragmentation ammunition for vintage guns. Request For Proposal (RFP) out for successor to L-70 and Zu-23 guns (220 units) with smart ammunition. Trials in July 2025, contract award expected by May-June 2026. Focus on indigenous procurement—no imports planned. Implications: Strengthening air defence capabilities to counter evolving aerial threats. Boosts self-reliance in defence technology through indigenous systems. Addresses challenges posed by swarm drones and disruptive warfare technologies. Assam: Move to recognise Bathousim highlights government commitment to preserve nature-based faiths, says expert Background: Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) in Assam now includes Bathouism as an official religion option in application forms (e.g., admissions, birth & death certificates). Move aims to preserve nature-based indigenous faiths and distinct Bodo identity. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) About Bathouism: Traditional faith of the Bodos—largest plains tribe in Assam. Bathoubwrai (Sibwrai): Supreme God symbolizing the supreme soul (Poromatma). Philosophy based on five elements: Bar (Air) | San (Sun) | Ha (Earth) | Or (Fire) | Okhrang (Sky) Parallels with Panchatatva in Hinduism. Sijou plant (Euphorbia splendens): Living symbol of Bathoubwrai; central to worship rituals. Government Initiatives: Bathou Puja: Declared state holiday on second Tuesday of Magh month. Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed commitment to preserve nature-centric faiths at the 13th Triennial Conference of All Bathou Mahasabha (Jan 2024). Significance of Recognition: Reinforces cultural roots while embracing modernity. Promotes religious inclusivity and identity preservation. Comparable to recognition of Sarnaism (practiced in Chota Nagpur Plateau)—both emphasize nature worship and ancestral reverence. Implications: Strengthens Bodo community’s cultural heritage. Reflects government’s inclusive approach towards indigenous beliefs. Potential to inspire similar recognition for other tribal faiths in India. Restoring land, restoring peace: How sustainable land management can ease global conflicts Key Focus: Addressing land degradation is vital not only for environmental health but also for conflict prevention and community rebuilding. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) , GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Highlights of the Ground for Peace Report (Dec 2024): Land Degradation & Conflict Link: Environmental degradation and resource scarcity escalate regional and global conflicts. 80 percent of conflicts (1950–2000) occurred in biodiversity hotspots. Case Studies: Rohingya Migration (Bangladesh): Forest cover dropped from 8,500 ha to 4,500 ha (2016–2018) due to refugee pressure. Nigeria: Peace agreement between Tiv and Igede groups improved resource-sharing and stability. Colombia: Peace deals enhanced land restoration and cocoa farmers’ community cohesion. Initiatives & Global Efforts: Peace Forest Initiative (PFI): Launched at UNCCD COP14 (2019, New Delhi). Aims to ease intercommunity tensions via Sustainable Land Management (SLM). Targets 17 sites across 44 countries. Other Key Frameworks: COP28 Declaration, Rio Convention, NATO’s 2023 Climate Change and Security Assessment. Challenges: Funding Shortage: 40 percent of intrastate conflicts stem from natural resources, yet less than 10 percent of global funding targets land issues. Private investments mostly favor biodiversity hotspots. Implementation Hurdles: Complex funding processes, capacity gaps, and poor planning can worsen conflicts. Examples: Banni Grasslands (India): Introduction of invasive species disrupted livelihoods. Chilika Lake (Odisha): Restoration led to economic distress for traditional fishers. Recommendations & Way Forward: Integrate land restoration into peacebuilding and security strategies. Leverage climate funds, donor support, and international agreements. Focus on community-driven, situation-specific solutions. Promote technical diplomacy and multi-level cooperation. Scale up efforts through the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration and global reforestation initiatives. Bottom Line: Restoring degraded land is pivotal for environmental stability, peace, and socio-economic resilience. Sustainable and inclusive approaches, backed by robust funding and political will, are essential to break the cycle of degradation and conflict.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 21 February 2025

Content: Common biomarker for range of Cancers offers potential non-invasive method for early cancer diagnosis International Asperger’s Day Common biomarker for range of Cancers offers potential non-invasive method for early cancer diagnosis Context and Significance Cancer Detection Challenges: Aggressive cancers like pancreatic and glioma are often diagnosed late with poor prognoses. Early detection remains a major challenge, emphasizing the need for non-invasive biomarkers. Relevance : GS 2(Health) , GS 3(Science) Potential Solution: Researchers have identified common metabolites across various cancer types (pancreatic, lung, glioma), indicating potential universal cancer biomarkers. Nano messengers (Exosomes) serve as carriers of tumor-derived metabolites, offering a window into the tumor microenvironment (TME). Key Findings of the Study Institution Involved: Conducted by Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Key researchers: Ms. Nandini Bajaj and Dr. Deepika Sharma. Metabolite Identification: Exosomes derived from pancreatic, lung, and glioma cancer cell lines contain common metabolites. These metabolites may act as universal biomarkers enhancing early detection and therapeutic strategies. Tumor Microenvironment (TME) Insights: Identified metabolites show dysregulated metabolic pathways within TME. Offers insights into cancer progression mechanisms and targeted therapy development. Methodology and Techniques Used The study employed a multi-technique approach surpassing single-method limitations: Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA): Measured size and concentration of exosomes. Electron Microscopy (EM): Provided detailed visualization of exosome morphology. Western Blot (WB): Confirmed presence of exosomal markers. Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR): Analyzed chemical composition. Untargeted Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS): Identified and quantified diverse metabolites. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR): Offered structural and metabolic profiling. Clinical Implications and Applications Diagnostics: Enables non-invasive, early cancer detection through exosome analysis. Potential to serve as universal biomarkers applicable across multiple cancer types. Therapeutics: Targeting dysregulated metabolic pathways could improve treatment efficacy. Insights from TME interactions enable precision medicine and personalized therapies. Patient Outcomes: Enhanced early detection could improve survival rates for aggressive cancers. Targeted therapies may reduce side effects by focusing on cancer-specific pathways. Future Prospects and Challenges Further Research Needed: Validation of biomarkers in clinical settings with larger patient cohorts. Investigate long-term reliability and specificity of identified metabolites. Potential Impact: Could revolutionize cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, especially for hard-to-detect cancers. Personalized, non-invasive approaches may become the standard of care in oncology. Conclusion The study published in Nanoscale marks a significant advancement in cancer research, highlighting the potential of exosome-derived metabolites as universal biomarkers. This approach could pave the way for early, non-invasive diagnosis and targeted therapies, offering better patient outcomes and precision treatment strategies. International Asperger’s Day Context and Significance International Asperger’s Day: Observed globally to raise awareness and promote understanding of Asperger’s Syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder under Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). National Initiative: NIEPID, under the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, led multiple awareness programmes nationwide, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusivity. Relevance : GS 2(Health) , GS 3(Science) Key Highlights of the Initiatives Objective: Foster awareness, promote inclusivity, and enhance support systems for individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome. Pan-India Approach: Programs conducted across various National and Regional Centres of NIEPID. a. National Level Initiatives National Institute for Locomotor Disabilities (NILD), Kolkata: Hosted a webinar on “Understanding Asperger’s Syndrome: Insights, Challenges, and Support Strategies.” Focus: Quality of life improvement and inclusive strategies for affected individuals. b. Regional Centre Initiatives Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Jammu: Awareness programme at Jammu College of Physiotherapy. Target Audience: Students and faculty for grassroots-level sensitization. Focus: Symptoms recognition and importance of inclusivity in educational settings. CRC, Nagpur: Webinar titled ‘Understanding and Supporting Individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome’ featuring Dr. Shruti Dhengre Gaikwad. Topics Covered: Rehabilitation techniques. Role of occupational therapy. Early intervention importance. CRC, Guwahati: Special event with the screening of an educational documentary on Asperger’s Syndrome. Benefit: Visual learning enhanced understanding for participants. CRC, Jaipur: Conducted a virtual webinar on challenges and effective support strategies. Focus Areas: Addressing practical issues faced by individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome in daily life. Relevance and Impact Holistic Awareness: Covered educational, medical, and rehabilitation aspects of Asperger’s Syndrome. Capacity Building: Targeted various stakeholders (students, faculty, medical professionals) for comprehensive awareness. Inclusivity Promotion: Initiatives emphasized creating an accommodating environment in schools, workplaces, and society. Challenges Highlighted Early Diagnosis Issues: Difficulty in recognizing symptoms at an early stage. Stigma and Misconceptions: Lack of awareness often leads to societal exclusion. Limited Access to Rehabilitation: Disparities in availability of occupational therapy and specialized interventions in rural areas. Recommendations from the Initiatives Enhanced Training: Regular workshops for educators and healthcare professionals. Inclusive Education: Integration of neurodiverse-friendly practices in educational institutions. Policy Support: Strengthen national disability policies for broader coverage of ASD-related support. Community Engagement: Local-level awareness campaigns to dismantle stigma. Way Forward Sustained Awareness Efforts: Beyond International Asperger’s Day, continuous programs are essential. Research and Innovation: Investment in studies focusing on early intervention and technological solutions. Government and NGO Collaboration: Leverage combined efforts for resource mobilization and outreach.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 21 February 2025

Content: The transformation of Koraput’s tribal food basket The long and winding road of India-China relations The transformation of Koraput’s tribal food basket Background: Koraput, Odisha: Rich in biodiversity with a predominantly tribal population. Paradox: High poverty and undernutrition despite multiple government schemes. Nutrition Statistics (NFHS-5, 2019-21): 43% of children under 5 years: Stunted. 33%: Underweight. Only 17%: Adequate diet. 50% women: Anaemic. Relevance : GS 2(Social Justice, Poverty , Health) Practice Question: With reference to community-driven approaches in addressing malnutrition, examine how the transformation of Koraput’s tribal food basket can serve as a model for nutrition security. (250 Word) Challenges Identified: Inadequate dietary diversity at the household level. Cultural norms affecting nutrition (e.g., reliance on one accompaniment with rice). Poor awareness and utilization of government schemes. Limited landholdings and dependence on subsistence farming. Gender, caste, and class dimensions influencing food access. M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) Intervention (2013-2022): Community-Based Nutrition Literacy Model: Sensitization: Nutritional status assessments (women, children, adolescents). Data presented to communities to raise awareness. Capacity Building: Formation of ‘community champions’: ~1,000 trained over 10 years. Focus areas: Balanced diets and dietary diversity. Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices. Nutrition-sensitive agriculture (crop diversity, poultry, pisciculture). Hygiene and sanitation. Training Approach: Activity-based residential training (2.5 days each, over six months). Inclusive of caste, class, and gender considerations. Promoted peer learning, discussions, and collective decision–making. Key Transformations & Outcomes: Household-Level Changes: Increase in crop diversity: Initial: 2-3 crops  —>  End: 9-11 varieties. Examples: Pulses, leafy greens, tubers, fruits, poultry, and fish. Home Gardens: Start: 90% operational for ~5 months. End: >50% operational for 7-9 months. Dietary Improvement: Increased consumption of nutritious foods (dhal, vegetables, fruits, eggs). Community-Level Changes: Revived village structures (community grain banks, village councils). Established new anganwadi centres through community resolution and advocacy. Enhanced cooperation with ASHA and Anganwadi workers. Gender & Social Inclusion: Women’s active involvement in agricultural and household decisions. Male champions engaged in joint decision-making with spouses. Awareness on caste and class barriers to nutrition addressed in training. Facilitating Factors for Change: Grassroots–driven approach: Empowerment from within the community. Practical and context-based learning models. Integration of traditional knowledge with scientific practices. Collective action in leveraging government entitlements. Challenges Ahead: Sustaining momentum beyond project duration. Addressing deeper socio-economic determinants of poverty. Scaling the model to other similar tribal regions. The long and winding road of India-China relations Background of Recent Developments India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited China in January 2025, meeting key Chinese leaders, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Liu Jianchao. Announcements included potential restoration of: Media and think tank exchanges Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Bilateral flights from summer 2025 Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : Discuss the significance of the recent diplomatic engagements between India and China in January 2025. How do external geopolitical factors influence bilateral relations between the two countries? (250 words) Possible Reasons for Renewed Engagement Diplomatic Stalemate (Post-Galwan 2020): Over four years of strained relations since the Galwan clashes necessitated détente. Prolonged stalemates are diplomatically unsustainable. External Factors: Donald Trump’s re-election (November 2024) increased geopolitical uncertainties, prompting regional stability efforts. Historical parallel: Post-Tiananmen 1989, China normalized relations with India in response to global backlash. Internal Factors: Economic concerns in both nations may have driven the push for stability. China’s slowing economy and India’s growth ambitions necessitate stable relations. Border Issues at the LAC (Line of Actual Control) Key Friction Points: Galwan, Depsang Bulge, Charding Nala, Gogra Post, Hot Springs, North Bank of Pangong Lake. Status Uncertainties: No official confirmation on demilitarization or troop withdrawal. Patrolling rights, crucial for border stability, remain unclear. Indian government’s silence raises doubts about the extent of progress. Diverging Approaches to Normalization India’s Stand: Restoration of the status quo ante and border stability are prerequisites for broader relations. China’s Position: Advocates moving beyond the border standoff to improve overall relations. Seeks economic and diplomatic normalization without addressing core border issues comprehensively. Implications and Challenges Strategic Caution: India must avoid appearing to compromise on territorial integrity. Lack of transparency could undermine public trust and diplomatic leverage. Global Dynamics: Divergent worldviews will continue to shape India-China relations. Cyclical ups and downs are likely, given historical patterns and leadership dynamics under Xi Jinping. Domestic Perception: Clarity on border issues is essential to avoid perceptions of India yielding to Chinese pressure.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 21 February 2025

Content: SC stays Lokpal order on power over judges I&B Ministry warns OTTs against ‘obscene content’ The silent victims of cancer: the indirect consequences on children AI-powered tools generate real-time insights into antibiotic resistance Is there a right to take offence? SC stays Lokpal order on power over judges Background: On January 27, the Lokpal passed an order claiming jurisdiction to investigate High Court judges under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. The order was based on a complaint alleging that an Additional High Court judge influenced judicial decisions in favor of a private company. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary) Supreme Court’s Response: A Special Bench of Justices B.R. Gavai, Surya Kant, and A.S. Oka stayed the Lokpal order. The Court termed the Lokpal’s interpretation as “very disturbing” and noted that it could undermine judicial independence. Issued notices to: Union Government Registrar of Lokpal The complainant (with an injunction to maintain confidentiality). Next hearing scheduled for March 18, 2025. Lokpal’s Reasoning: Declared High Court judges as“public servants“ under Section 14(1)(f) of the 2013 Act. Argued that High Courts were established under British Parliamentary Acts (Indian High Courts Act, 1861; Government of India Act, 1935) and not directly by the Constitution. Distinguished High Courts from the Supreme Court, which is solely a creation of the Constitution (Article 124). Contrasting Orders by Lokpal: January 3, 2025: Lokpal stated it had no jurisdiction over Supreme Court judges, including the CJI. January 27, 2025: Asserted jurisdiction over High Court judges, deeming the contrary argument“too naive.” Judicial Independence vs. Accountability: The Supreme Court’s concern centers on safeguarding judicial independence from external oversight that could threaten impartiality. Lokpal’s stance focuses on accountability under anti-corruption laws. Constitutional & Legal Provisions Involved: Article 214: Establishes High Courts for each state. Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 – Section 14(1)(f): Defines jurisdiction over public servants. Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988: Considers judges as public servants but doesn’t extend Lokpal’s jurisdiction to them. Implications: Raises constitutional questions regarding checks and balances between the judiciary and statutory bodies. Outcome may set a precedent for future oversight mechanisms concerning the judiciary. I&B Ministry warns OTTs against ‘obscene content’ Reason for Advisory: Based on complaints from the general public, Members of Parliament (MPs), and statutory bodies. Cited concerns about “obscene and vulgar content” on OTT platforms. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) Ministry’s Directives: OTT platforms must enforce age-based classification as per the IT (Intermediary Liability and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. Mandatory age-gating for mature content to prevent underage access. Streaming services must have a three-tier grievance redress mechanism: User complaint to platform Self-regulatory body Inter-departmental government committee Context & Background: In December 2024, the I&B Ministry flagged shows allegedly glamorizing drug use. Supreme Court (SC) recently sought government action against obscene content on social media platforms. Scope of Advisory: Targets online curated content platforms (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime). Excludes user-generated content platforms like YouTube. Relevant Legal Framework: IT Rules, 2021: Allows mature content but requires proper classification. Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986: Restricts derogatory portrayal of women. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023: Penalizes obscenity. POCSO Act: Safeguards children from exposure to inappropriate content. IT Act, 2000: Criminalizes publication of obscene material online. Key Takeaway: OTT platforms are not banned from showing mature content but must ensure responsible access and compliance with legal norms. The silent victims of cancer: the indirect consequences on children Impact on Children: Childhood cancers (0-14 years) account for 4% of all cancer cases in India. Children are indirect victims, either battling cancer themselves or being affected by a parent’s illness. Relevance : GS 2((Health, Social Issues) Education Disruption: Cancer leads to loss of educational opportunities, especially in low-income families. Children may be pulled out of school; older siblings often become caregivers or start working. Example: Meena from Pune had to drop out of school after her mother’s cancer diagnosis. Long-term effects: Dropouts face lower lifetime earnings and increased economic instability. Indirect Costs of Cancer: Non-medical expenses: Travel, accommodation, special diets, and household help. Loss of income: Patients and caregivers often lose jobs or reduce work hours. Mental health impact: Emotional strain on both patients and family members. Insurance & Government Schemes: Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY: Reduces direct medical costs; indirect costs remain largely unaddressed. Insurance Riders: Provide income replacement but are often costly and have strict criteria. Other Supports: Discounted travel for patients (Indian Railways, Air India). Free bus travel in states like Himachal Pradesh and Haryana. Monthly pension schemes in states like Haryana and Tripura. Way Forward: Policy Focus: Move beyond direct costs; address indirect burdens through: Caregiver aid, educational support, and employment protection. Educational Interventions: Use of calculators, extra coaching, free school meals, and mental health support. Holistic Approach: Empathetic action at government, school, and community levels. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and state support are essential. Significance: Cancer’s indirect costs can trap families in poverty across generations. Ensuring education and economic opportunities for affected children safeguards the nation’s future. AI-powered tools generate real time insights into antibiotic resistance Research Collaboration: Conducted by IIIT-Delhi, CHRI-PATH, Tata 1mg, and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Focus on developing AI-driven tools for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance. Relevance : GS 2(Health ) , GS 3(Technology) Key Tool Developed – AMRSense: Utilizes routine hospital data (blood, sputum, urine cultures) for real-time AMR insights. Provides global, national, and hospital-level AMR trends. Cost-effective alternative to expensive genomic approaches. Findings from Six-Year Study (Published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia): Analyzed data from 21 tertiary care centers under ICMR’s AMR surveillance network. Identified directional relationships between antibiotic pairs and resistance patterns. Rising resistance to one antibiotic can predict increased resistance to another over time. Innovations in AMR Surveillance: AMROrbit Scorecard: Visualizes hospital/department resistance trends against global medians and rates. Facilitates timely interventions by showing ideal resistance quadrants (low baseline, low rate of change). Awarded at the 2024 AMR Surveillance Data Challenge. AI’s Role in Public Health and Clinical Settings: Enhances antimicrobial stewardship through data-driven decisions. Compares AMR rates across hospitals, cities, and departments. Augments traditional surveillance systems with real-time data visualizations. Challenges & Limitations: AI models rely on consistent, digital surveillance data; limited in data-deficient regions. Environmental factors (e.g., antibiotic use in poultry, soil contamination) also influence AMR but are not fully integrated yet. Future Directions: Plan to integrate hospital data with antibiotic sales and environmental data for comprehensive AMR analysis. Aim to improve public health decision-making and policy formulation through expanded data integration. Reliability of Models: Models validated against historical data show accuracy in detecting AMR trends. Global studies confirm the increasing rate of AMR captured by the AI models. This development aligns with global health goals to combat antimicrobial resistance through timely data-driven interventions and improved public health strategies. Is there a right to take offence? Context :Right to Take Offence & Constitutional Framework: The Indian Constitution does not explicitly recognize a “right to take offence.” Restrictions on free speech under Article 19(2) are narrowly defined (security of the state, public order, decency, morality, etc.). Offensive speech, unless falling within these categories, cannot be criminalized. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) , GS 2(Social Justice) Balancing Free Speech & Restrictions: Free speech is expansive but must respect defined constitutional limits. Restrictions can only be imposed through enacted legislation, not executive actions. Laws should not be paternalistic; only speech posing imminent threats (e.g., incitement to violence) justifies curbs. Constitutional Morality vs. Majority Morality: Constitutional morality focuses on principles like equality and justice, preventing the tyranny of majority sentiments. Societal disapproval can be expressed through criticism or boycotts, not criminal prosecution. Filing multiple FIRs for the same speech incident is harassment and undermines fair trial rights. Profane vs. Obscene Speech: Profanity does not automatically equate to obscenity. Obscenity standards have evolved from the Hicklin test (1964) to the community standards test (2014). Evolving social norms make defining obscenity subjective and context-dependent. Regulation of Digital Content: Over-regulation risks homogenizing information, curbing dissent, and stifling diversity of opinion. Laws must be applied impartially; selective censorship undermines democratic fairness. Key Takeaway: A robust democracy thrives on diverse opinions and satire, even if uncomfortable. Offence should be met with dialogue, not criminalization. Balancing free speech with constitutional morality ensures both freedom and responsibility in public discourse.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 20 February 2025

Content: World Day of Social Justice – 20th February Innovate2Educate World Day of Social Justice – 20th February Context : World Day of Social Justice: Celebrated annually on 20th February since 2009, established by UNGA (2007). Emphasizes poverty alleviation, exclusion reduction, unemployment solutions, and promoting global solidarity and equality. Aligns with the Decent Work Agenda and SDGs for inclusive development. India’s Alignment: India has observed this day since 2009, reflecting its commitment to address historical injustices, socio-economic inequalities, and regional disparities. The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE) leads targeted interventions for marginalized sections. Relevance : GS 2(Social Justice) Constitutional Framework for Social Justice in India Preamble: Guarantees social, economic, and political justice and promotes fraternity, dignity, and equality. Fundamental Rights (Part III):(Examples) Article 23: Prohibits human trafficking and forced labour. Article 24: Bans child labour in hazardous occupations. Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV): Article 38: Directs the state to minimize inequalities in income, status, facilities, and opportunities. Article 39: Advocates for equal livelihood opportunities and prevents exploitation. Article 39A: Provides for free legal aid to ensure equal access to justice. Article 46: Promotes the educational and economic interests of SCs, STs, and weaker sections. Institutional Evolution & Financial Commitment MoSJE Formation: Originated from the Ministry of Welfare (1985-86); renamed as MoSJE (1998) for focused social justice efforts. Budget Allocation: ₹13,611 crores allocated for 2025-26, a 6% increase from the previous fiscal year to expand. Key Government Initiatives & Their Impact Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) Launched: 2021-22 | Focus: SC community upliftment through skill development, infrastructure, and income generation. Achievements (till Jan 2024): 5,051 villages declared as Adarsh Gram. 1,655 socio-economic projects benefiting 3.05 lakh individuals. ₹26.31 crore allocated for 38 hostels in higher education. Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SRESHTA) Objective: Bridge educational gaps for SC students in targeted regions. Features: Financial support to private schools (CBSE/State Board-affiliated). Coverage from Classes 9 to 12 with focus on residential schooling. Backed by NGOs/VOs for broader outreach. Purple Fests – Festival of Inclusion Initiated: 2023 | Focus: Promote inclusivity for Divyangjan (persons with disabilities). Key Highlights (2024): Over 10,000 participants, enhancing visibility of disability rights. Launch of India Neurodiversity Platform for early interventions. Hosting of 25 job fairs targeting disability-friendly employment. National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Launched: FY 2023-24 Objective: Ensure dignity and safety for sanitation workers through mechanization and rehabilitation. Key Features: Targets both manual scavengers and waste pickers (since FY 2024-25). Focus on skill training and livelihood diversification. Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood & Enterprise (SMILE) Aim: Achieve Bhiksha Vritti Mukt Bharat (Begging-free India). Strategies: Area-specific surveys, rescue operations, and vocational training. Formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for sustainable livelihood. Impact (as of Nov 2024): 7,660 individuals identified; 970 rehabilitated with alternative livelihoods. PM-DAKSH Yojana Launched: August 2021 | Budget: ₹450.25 crore (2021-26). Target Groups: SCs, OBCs, EBCs, DNTs, Safai Karamcharis. Focus: Provide skill development through certified courses. 70% placement rate post-training with emphasis on self and wage employment. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) Launched: August 2020 | Goal: Create a drug-free India. Coverage: Targets 272 high-risk districts. Three-Pronged Approach: Supply reduction: Coordination with NCB. Demand reduction: Awareness via MoSJE. Treatment: Through healthcare institutions. Outreach (till 2024): Reached 13.57 crore people, including 4.42 crore youth and 2.71 crore women. Challenges & Way Forward Persistent Issues: Deep-rooted caste discrimination, regional inequalities, and limited access to quality services. Social stigma remains prevalent among certain marginalized groups. Way Forward: Enhancing awareness to reduce discrimination. Effective implementation of schemes at grassroots levels. Strengthening public-private partnerships for inclusive development. Focus on intersectional vulnerabilities (gender, disability, caste, and economic status). Innovate2Educate Overview: Part of the Create in India Challenge Season 1 under WAVES (World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit). Focuses on AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Metaverse). Organizers: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (Lead Organizer) Indian Digital Gaming Society (IDGS) (Co-organizer) Hack2Skill (Innovation Partner) ICT Academy (Skilling Partner) Participation: 334 candidates registered (including 3 international participants). Relevance : GS 2(Education ) ,GS 3(Technology) Objectives of the Challenge Develop an educational handheld device targeting children. Key Focus Areas: Engage children in Mathematics learning. Encourage problem-solving through interactive puzzles. Enhance cognitive skills via innovative content. Ensure affordability and accessibility for a broad user base. Competition Guidelines Design Focus: Blend education with entertainment. Prioritize innovation, durability, and user-friendly designs for children. Phases of the Competition Phase 1: Registration Deadline: 23rd February 2025 (11:59 PM IST). Participants must register online through the designated platform. Phase 2: Concept Submission Submit detailed sketches, descriptions, and key features of the proposed device. Phase 3: Prototype Development Selected participants will develop and submit a working prototype. Evaluation Criteria Innovation: Originality and creative integration of technology. Educational Value: Effectiveness in teaching mathematics and improving cognitive abilities. User Experience: Engagement level and ease of use for children. Cost-effectiveness: Feasibility of mass production at an affordable cost. Durability & Design: Robustness and practicality of the device’s structure. Incentives and Rewards Top 3 Winners: Cash prizes for creative and innovative designs. Support for prototype development to refine designs. Showcasing opportunities at IDGS events and exposure to potential investors and manufacturers. Significance of the Challenge Encourages innovation in educational technology. Promotes hands-on learning and interactive education for children. Aligns with India’s digital transformation goals and the Make in India initiative. Fosters collaboration between academia, industry, and innovators to enhance the learning ecosystem.

Facebook Instagram YouTube LinkedIn TelegramGroup Website TelegramChat
Terms and Conditions Privacy Refund Policy Learning Management System by Testpress