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Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 27 August 2024

Contents: Commitment to India-US partnership Damage to Chatrapati Shivaji statue Commitment to India-US partnership Focus: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and affecting India’s interests; India-US relation. Why in News? Recently, the Prime Minister  onveyed his appreciation for President Biden’s deep commitment the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, which is based on shared values of democracy, rule of law and strong people-to-people ties. U.S.-India relations The U.S.-India partnership is founded on a shared commitment to freedom, democratic principles, equal treatment of all citizens, human rights, and the rule of law. The United States and India have shared interests in promoting global security, stability, and economic prosperity through trade, investment, and connectivity. The United States supports India’s emergence as a leading global power and vital partner in efforts to ensure that the Indo-Pacific is a region of peace, stability, and growing prosperity. The strong people-to-people ties between our countries, reflected in a four million-strong Indian American diaspora, are a tremendous source of strength for the partnership. In December 2019, the United States hosted the second 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington led by the U.S. Secretaries of State and Defense and their Indian counterparts, at which both sides reaffirmed India’s status as a Major Defense Partner and deepened cooperation on maritime security, interoperability, and information sharing. While the 2+2 serves as the premier dialogue mechanism between the United States and India, there are more than thirty bilateral dialogues and working groups, which span all aspects of human endeavor, from space and health cooperation to energy and high technology trade. These include the U.S.-India Counterterrorism Joint Working Group, which was established in 2000 and is among our oldest government to government dialogues, as well as the Strategic Energy Partnership, Cyber Dialogue, Civil Space Working Group, Trade Policy Forum, Defense Policy Group and many more. Damage to Chatrapati Shivaji statue Focus: GS I- History Why in News? Indian Navy expressed deep concern for the damage caused to the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj that was unveiled on Navy Day on 04 Dec 2023 as a dedication to the citizens of Sindhudurg. Along with the State Government and concerned specialists, the Navy has deputed a team to immediately investigate the cause of this unfortunate accident and initiate steps to repair, restore and reinstate the statue. About Chhatrapati Shivaji  Born on February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort in Pune. He was born to Shahaji Bhonsle, a Maratha general who ruled the Bijapur Sultanate’s jagirs of Pune and Supe.  Shivaji’s mother was Jijabai, a devout woman who had a strong religious influence on him. Shivaji’s name was derived from the name of a provincial deity, Goddess Shivai. He created the Maratha Empire by carving out an enclave from the crumbling Adilshahi sultanate of Bijapur. He was formally crowned Chhatrapati (Monarch) of his dominion in Raigad in 1674. Religious tolerance and functional integration of the Brahmans, Marathas, and Prabhus ensured the kingdom’s security. With the support of a disciplined military and well-structured administrative organisations, he constructed a competent and progressive civil rule. He had a ministerial council (Asht Pradhan) to advise him on state problems, but he was not bound by it. He had the authority to appoint or fire them. He pioneered non-conventional methods (guerrilla warfare) and used strategic elements such as terrain, speed, and surprise to innovate military tactics. To defeat his larger and more powerful opponents, he concentrated on pinpoint attacks. Although the courageous warrior died in 1680, he is remembered for his bravery and intelligence. Shivaji and the Mughals Shivaji’s meteoric rise posed challenges to the suzerainty of the Mughals. His first direct encounter with the Mughals was during Aurangzeb’s Deccan campaigns of the 1650s. As Aurangzeb went North to fight for the Mughal throne, Shivaji was able to seize further territory. His tactics against the Mughals were adapted to the specific nature of his force and the flabby Mughal armies. Using swift cavalry attacks, he would raid and pillage Mughal strongholds. While on the rare occasion he would engage in battle to actually capture and hold Mughal positions, most often, he would simply cause much menace, raid the treasury, and leave with the Mughals in terror and disarray. Famously, in 1664, he attacked the port of Surat (now in Gujarat) and plundered one of the richest and busiest commercial towns of Mughal India while the local governor hid in a nearby fort. As the legend of Shivaji and the physical sphere of his influence grew, Aurangzeb sent a 100,000-strong, well-equipped army under Raja Jai Singh I to subdue him in 1665. After putting up a valiant fight, Shivaji was besieged in the Purandar hill fort.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 27 August 2024

CONTENTS Crime, Health-Worker Safety and a Self-Examination The Delay in Census Crime, Health-Worker Safety and a Self-Examination Context: In 2017, Maharashtra witnessed intense protests by resident doctors following a series of brutal attacks on medical staff in quick succession—typical of how sensationalized criminal offenses often unfold. Despite the severity of the issue, the solution was straightforward and conventional: enhancing security in public hospitals and strengthening legal mechanisms to swiftly bring perpetrators to justice. Similar incidents have occurred over the years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet the responses have remained reactive and lacking in effectiveness. Instances of swift justice are hard to recall. Relevance: GS Paper – 2 Government Policies and Interventions Human Resource Health Issues Relating to Development Mains Question: Emerging answers to the issue of health-worker safety continue to remain reflexive and simplistic, and could show an incomplete understanding of the malady beneath. Discuss in the context of recent violence inflicted upon healthcare workers. (15 Marks, 250 Words). The Deeper Issue: A deeper issue lies beneath the surface. The recent tragic death of a promising resident doctor in Kolkata has shocked the nation and prompted the Supreme Court of India to take suo motu cognizance of the event. However, the emerging solutions continue to be reflexive and simplistic, possibly indicating an incomplete understanding of the underlying problem. On August 20, the Court ordered the creation of a national task force to develop measures to enhance hospital safety. Proposed improvements include better infrastructure, increased closed-circuit television surveillance, a stronger security presence at hospitals, and safe night transportation. Similarly, the West Bengal government has launched the ‘Rattierer Saathi’ (night companion) program, aimed at improving the safety of women working night shifts, particularly in medical colleges and hospitals. While such initiatives are crucial, they implicitly equate the issue with typical health worker violence, often perpetrated by frustrated patients due to perceived poor healthcare services, or with broader concerns about women’s safety. However, the more insidious issue lurking beneath is the corruption of criminal proportions. Corruption as a Contributor: Conventional responses to health worker violence, such as improving hospital security and introducing new legislation, have consistently failed to address the problem effectively over the years. The reasons, such as underfunding, are similar to why our healthcare systems remain generally fragile. However, the extent to which corruption contributes to the overall loss of lives has been vastly underestimated. If recent reports are accurate, there is a strong likelihood that deep-rooted, organized corruption played a significant role in this gruesome crime, as well as in other incidents and the gradual deterioration of public health services that may have previously gone unnoticed. The fact that this issue concerns a top healthcare institution within an already underfunded state public health system is particularly alarming. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that corruption costs the world nearly $455 billion annually—more than the amount required to provide universal health coverage to everyone. In much of the developing world, corruption, rather than a mere lack of funds, is a significant factor contributing to healthcare crises and poor health outcomes. In India, while the discourse on medical corruption often focuses on private losses and malpractices, its criminal aspects have largely been overlooked. Human resource-intensive healthcare systems are fertile ground for expanding corruption, including severe forms like sextortion, especially in political systems plagued by underfunding and poor oversight. Given these conditions, it’s difficult to imagine how much improvement could realistically come from merely enhancing the security of health workers and hospital infrastructure, even if these measures are effectively implemented. The realization that medical corruption can lead to the deaths of healthcare workers as well as patients suggests that the public health system and its leadership may need a thorough self-assessment. Swift justice in the Kolkata case is unquestionably crucial, as nothing else can serve as an effective deterrent. Unfortunately, India has traditionally fallen short in this area, with visible consequences. Way Forward: The national task force has a monumental task ahead, one that goes beyond simply recommending safety measures—it must develop a robust plan to prevent and combat medical corruption, particularly in the public sector. This cannot be achieved by a team of medical doctors alone; it requires input from experts in public health, medico-legal fields, and other relevant areas, as well as the involvement and approval of the broader governing and administrative community. The strategies devised must go beyond introducing yet another piece of legislation. Reforms should focus on enhancing administrative transparency, accountability, and oversight, implementing effective whistle-blower protections, and thoroughly digitizing public management systems. The importance of ombudsmanship and other tools to reduce political interference cannot be overstated. Lessons could be learned from how countries like Brazil continue to fight political corruption in healthcare. Conclusion: There is much to be done in modernizing the traditional “command and control” structure of Indian public hospitals, which remain entrenched in outdated practices. While there are numerous efficiency reasons for such modernization, the urgent moral and regulatory justifications are now glaringly evident and can no longer be ignored. The Delay in Census Context: In what appears to be a case of complicating matters, the Union government is reportedly considering expanding data collection in the long-delayed Census to include caste enumeration. This inclusion of caste as a variable could be a response to the strong demand for a caste census from several political parties. Relevance: GS1- Population and Associated Issues GS2- Government Policies & Interventions Mains Question: Highlight the origin and evolution of the decennial census in India. What have been the repercussions of the delay in conducting the census after 2011? (10 Marks, 150 Words). About the Census: Definition: A Population Census is a comprehensive process that involves collecting, compiling, analyzing, and distributing demographic, economic, and social data for all individuals in a country or a clearly defined region at a specific point in time. The Census serves as the foundation for evaluating the country’s progress over the previous decade, monitoring current government programs, and planning for the future. It offers a snapshot of a community that is accurate at a particular moment. Frequency: The first synchronized Census in India was conducted in 1881 under the supervision of W.C. Plowden, the Census Commissioner of India. Since then, the Census has been consistently conducted every ten years. The Census of India Act of 1948 provides the legal framework for carrying out the Census but does not specify its timing or periodicity. Therefore, while a Census is mandated by the Constitution in India, there is no Constitutional or legal requirement for it to be conducted every ten years. Although many countries, such as the US and the UK, adhere to a 10-year Census cycle, others like Australia, Canada, and Japan conduct it every five years. Nodal Ministry: The decennial Census is overseen by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Before 1951, the Census organization was established on an ad-hoc basis for each Census. Recording Caste Data: However, given the incomplete and poorly designed nature of the Socio-Economic and Caste Census of 2011, which produced data that were unwieldy, inaccurate, and therefore unusable, the government should not rush into using the Registrar General’s office and other agencies to record caste data. A clear and definite timeline for conducting the Census with urgency should be established first. If the delay is intentional, possibly to allow for delimitation to occur first in 2026, this could be detrimental not only to public policy but also to relations with the States. Impact of the Delay: As of June 2024, out of 233 countries, India was one of 44 that had not conducted a Census this decade. While the Union Home Ministry cited delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 143 other countries conducted their Census after March 2020, when the pandemic began. India now shares the unfortunate distinction of not having conducted a Census with countries affected by conflict, economic crises, or turmoil, such as Yemen, Syria, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Ukraine, Sri Lanka, and several in sub-Saharan Africa. There is little justification for the ongoing delay of the decennial Census, an exercise that has been consistently conducted from 1881 to 2011. Yet, the deadline to finalize the administrative boundaries of districts, tehsils, towns, and municipal bodies—a necessary step before conducting the Census—expired on June 30 this year. This deadline has been extended 10 times since 2019. Numerous public schemes, such as the National Food Security Act, the National Social Assistance Programme, and the delimitation of constituencies, depend on the Census being conducted. Additionally, statistical surveys that inform policy, like those on household and social consumption, the National Family Health Survey, the Periodic Labour Force Survey, and the Sample Registration System, among others, rely on the Census to establish their sampling frames. As the 2011 Census data becomes increasingly outdated, with phenomena such as migration within and across states, urbanization of Indian societies, and suburbanization of cities becoming more pronounced in recent years, the absence of a Census is glaring. Relying on various sample surveys to fill this gap only leads to debates over methodology and politically motivated conclusions. Conclusion: The Union government must cease neglecting its responsibilities and proceed with the Census without further delay.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 27 August 2024

Contents Unified Lending Interface Pragyan rover finds evidence of magma ocean on moon India and Singapore Second ministerial meeting Vaccine Derived Polio infection National Task Force For Safety & Security Of Medical Professionals Typhoon Shanshan Unified Lending Interface Context: The Reserve bank of India to launch Unified Lending Interface platform that will benefir borrowers. Relevance: GS3-Indian Economy Dimensions of the Article: About Unified Lending Interface About UPI Positive Impacts of UPI Negative Impacts of UPI About Unified Lending Interface: As a result of digital revolution, India has embraced the concept of digital public infrastructure which encourages banks, NBFCs, fintech companies and start-ups to create and provide innovative solutions in payments, credit, and other financial activities. For digital credit delivery, the data required for credit appraisal are available with different entities like Central and State governments, account aggregators, banks, credit information companies and digital identity authorities. However, these data sets are in separate systems, creating hindrance in frictionless and timely delivery of rule-based lending. Hence, the launch of ULI platform will facilitate a seamless and consent-based flow of digital information, including land records of various states, from multiple data service providers to lenders. This initiative will significantly will cut down the time taken for credit appraisal, especially for smaller and rural borrowers. The platform will reduce the complexity of multiple technical integrations, and will enable borrowers to get the benefit of seamless delivery of credit, and quicker turnaround time without requiring extensive documentation. The ‘new trinity’ of JAM-UPI-ULI will be a revolutionary step forward in India’s digital infrastructure journey About UPI: UPI is an enhanced version of the Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), offering round-the-clock funds transfer for quicker, smoother, and easier cashless transactions. It integrates multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application, consolidating various banking features such as seamless fund routing and merchant payments. NPCI manages various payment systems, and UPI stands as the largest among them, including the National Automated Clearing House (NACH), IMPS, Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS), Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS), and RuPay. Prominent UPI applications include PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and BHIM, the latter being a government initiative. As part of an agreement, India’s UPI will be linked to Singapore’s PayNow. NPCI introduced UPI with the collaboration of 21 member banks in 2016. Positive Impacts of UPI: Ease of usage: Simplified digital transactions via smartphones. Financial Inclusion: Access to digital payments for all individuals. Decreased Cash Dependency: Curbing illicit transactions and risks. Boost to Digital Economy: Promoting digital entrepreneurship and innovation. Negative Impacts of UPI: UPI as Petty Cash Alternative: Growing reliance on UPI for smaller transactions, replacing petty cash. Limited Transaction Flexibility: Confusing limits set by various apps and banks impacting transaction flexibility. Infrastructure Challenges: Difficulties keeping up with the surge in UPI payments, necessitating infrastructure upgrades. Security and Fraud Prevention: Rising cyber threats and fraud risks requiring robust security measures. -Source: The Indian Express        Pragyan rover finds evidence of magma ocean on moon Context: The Pragyan rover has found crucial evidence bolstering the claim about the lunar surface being made up of magma. Relevance: GS III- Space Dimensions of the Article: Significance of the findings About Chandrayaan-3 Mission Objectives Significance of the findings:  The finding bolsters the claim that the moon’s surface was composed of magma when it was first formed 4.5 billion years ago and lends credence to the Lunar Magma Ocean hypothesis. This theory puts forwards that the moon was formed out of a giant collision which melted several kilometres of the moon’s surface. This meant that, at its inception, the moon was entirely covered by an ocean of hot magma, which took millions of years to cool and solidify into rocks. About Chandrayaan-3: As the name suggests, the Chandrayaan-3 is the successor to the Chandrayaan-2 mission and it will likely attempt another soft-landing on the lunar surface. It will be almost a repetition of the July 2019 Chandrayaan-2 mission in the configuration of spacecraft, the landing spot on the moon and the experiments to be conducted on the lunar surface. Although scores of landers sent by Russia, the U.S. and the Chinese have explored the moon’s surface, so far, no other agency has landed in the southern hemisphere of the moon. ISRO hopes to be the first to do so. Mission Objectives Try and build on the evidence of water molecules shown by Chandrayaan-I and study the extent and distribution of water on the Moon Study topography, seismography, composition of lunar surface and the lunar atmosphere The study of ancient rocks and craters can offer indications of origin and evolution of the Moon. The South Pole region of the Moon also contains clues to the fossil records of early solar system. Thus, it will improve our understanding of the early solar system as well. -Source: The Hindu, Down to Earth        India and Singapore Second ministerial meeting Context: India and Singapore are going to hold the second round of ministerial roundtable meeting. It aims to review various aspects of their Strategic Partnership and identify new avenues to further elevate and broaden it. Relevance: GS-II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: History of India-Singapore Relations Relations with Singapore related to Defence and Security Trade Relations with Singapore Indian Diaspora and Culture in Singapore India–Singapore relations History of India-Singapore Relations India and Singapore share long-standing cultural, commercial and strategic relations, with Singapore being a part of the “Greater India” cultural and commercial region. Greater India, or the Indian cultural sphere is an area composed of many countries and regions in South and Southeast Asia that were historically influenced by Indian culture. Following its independence in 1965, Singapore was concerned with China-backed communist threats as well as domination from Malaysia and Indonesia and sought a close strategic relationship with India, which it saw as a counterbalance to Chinese influence and a partner in achieving regional security. Singapore had always been an important strategic trading post, giving India trade access to the Far East. Diplomatic relations between India and Singapore were established in 1965 right after Singapore’s independence. Military relations between the two nations had been limited due to foreign policy differences in the Cold War era, as Singapore was allied with NATO, whilst India established itself as a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Relations with Singapore related to Defence and Security In 2003, India and Singapore signed a bilateral agreement on expanding military cooperation, conducting joint military training, developing military technology and achieving maritime security. The Singaporean Navy and the Indian Navy have conducted joint naval exercises and training since 1993 such as SIMBEX and MILAN near India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. India and Singapore have also expanded their cooperation in fighting terrorism. Trade Relations with Singapore Singapore is the 8th largest source of investment in India and the second largest amongst ASEAN member nations. Total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from Singapore into India till 2018 was 19% of total FDI inflow. Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) singed between India and Singapore was the first comprehensive agreement covering trade in goods, services and investments signed by India with any of its trading partners. Indian Diaspora and Culture in Singapore More than 500,000 people of Indian origin live in Singapore. Singapore’s large Indian diaspora through a number of cultural societies and Singapore’s official support sustains a high level of cultural activity in Singapore. Ethnic Indians constitute about 9.1% or around 3.5 lakhs of the resident population of 3.9 million in Singapore. ASEAN-India Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) was held in Singapore on 6-7 January 2018 as part of commemoration of 25 years of ASEAN-India Partnership. Singapore celebrated the 4th International Day of Yoga (IDY) through 173 yoga sessions and attended by approx. 8000 people. Even on Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, celebrations were launched with a projection of Gandhiji’s video on the world’s largest HD video screen at Suntec Convention Centre. -Source: The Hindu, The Indian Express        Vaccine Derived Polio infection Context: A two-year-old child from Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district reportedly tested positive for polio. Relevance: GS II- Health Dimensions of the Article: What is Vaccine Derived Polio infection? What is Polio? Recent Outbreaks of Polio Polio in India India’s Pulse Polio Programme Steps taken by the Government to maintain polio free status in India What is Vaccine Derived Polio infection? A vaccine-derived poliovirus is a strain related to the weakened version of the live poliovirus contained in the oral polio vaccine (OPV) and become neurovirulent (able to cause paralysis and circulate in communities). The neurovirulent virus is referred to as vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV). This is a very rare event. In the 10 years leading up to 2015 there were around 750 cases of paralysis caused by VDPVs reported worldwide. What is Polio? The World Health Organization (WHO) defines polio or poliomyelitis as “a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children.” The virus is transmitted by person-to-person, spread mainly through the faecal-oral route or, less frequently, by a common vehicle (e.g., contaminated water or food) and multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and can cause paralysis. Initial symptoms of polio include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. In a small proportion of cases, the disease causes paralysis, which is often permanent. There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented by immunization. There are three individual and immunologically distinct wild poliovirus strains: Wild Poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) Wild Poliovirus type 2 (WPV2) Wild Poliovirus type 3 (WPV3) Symptomatically, all three strains are identical, in that they cause irreversible paralysis or even death. However, there are genetic and virological differences, which make these three strains separate viruses which must each be eradicated individually. Recent Outbreaks of Polio In 2019, polio outbreaks were recorded in the Philippines, Malaysia, Ghana, Myanmar, China, Cameroon, Indonesia and Iran, which were mostly vaccine-derived in which a rare strain of the virus genetically mutated from the strain in the vaccine. Afghanistan and Pakistan are the two countries that are having the most trouble in controlling the spread of Polio effectively. In 2018, a total of 8,60,000 children in Afghanistan did not receive polio vaccine due to security threats. Polio in India India received polio-free certification by the WHO in 2014, after three years of zero cases. This achievement has been spurred by the successful pulse polio campaign in which all children were administered polio drops. The last case due to wild poliovirus in the country was detected on 13th January 2011. India’s Pulse Polio Programme With the global initiative of eradication of polio in 1988 following World Health Assembly resolution in 1988, Pulse Polio Immunization programme was launched in India in 1995. Children in the age group of 0-5 years administered polio drops during National and Sub-national immunization rounds (in high-risk areas) every year. The Pulse Polio Initiative was started with an objective of achieving hundred per cent coverage under Oral Polio Vaccine. It aimed to immunize children through improved social mobilization, plan mop-up operations in areas where poliovirus has almost disappeared and maintain high level of morale among the public. Steps taken by the Government to maintain polio free status in India Maintaining community immunity through high quality National and Sub National polio rounds each year. An extremely high level of vigilance through surveillance across the country for any importation or circulation of poliovirus and VDPV is being maintained. All States and Union Territories in the country have developed a Rapid Response Team (RRT) to respond to any polio outbreak in the country. To reduce risk of importation from neighbouring countries, international border vaccination is being provided through continuous vaccination teams (CVT) to all eligible children round the clock. Government of India has issued guidelines for mandatory requirement of polio vaccination to all international travelers before their departure from India to polio affected countries namely:  Afghanistan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Syria and Cameroon. -Source: The Hindu, The Indian Express     National Task Force For Safety & Security Of Medical Professionals Context: The first meeting of the National Task Force formed by the Supreme Court to make recommendations for safety, security and working conditions of medical professionals will be held today. The meeting will be chaired by Cabinet Secretary, Government of India. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Ground Reality Immediate Needs for a Safe Work Environment Global Measures to Protect Healthcare Workers Need for Action in India Government Initiatives Ground Reality Legal and Administrative Framework Decentralized Responsibility: Health and law and order are primarily the responsibility of State governments or Union Territory administrations. This decentralization means that responses and regulations can vary significantly from one region to another. Lack of Centralized Data: There is no central record of the number of fatalities among medical professionals due to violence, which complicates efforts to address the issue systematically and measure the effectiveness of interventions. Historical Context and Ongoing Issues The case of Aruna Shanbaug underscores the longstanding nature of violence against healthcare workers in India, highlighting not just extreme cases of assault but also the daily risks faced by medical staff. Immediate Needs for a Safe Work Environment Infrastructure Improvements: Many medical facilities in India suffer from infrastructural deficiencies such as poor lighting and inadequate security measures, which can increase the vulnerability of healthcare workers. Security Enhancements: There is a crucial need for the implementation of robust security measures including: Improved Lighting: Ensuring that all areas within medical facilities are well-lit to prevent dark spots where assaults can occur. Security Personnel: Deploying trained security guards to monitor sensitive areas within hospitals and respond quickly to incidents. Surveillance Systems: Installing cameras and conducting regular monitoring can help deter potential assailants and document incidents should they occur. Controlled Access: Managing access to various parts of hospitals through manned checkpoints can prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of violence. Broader Implications Cultural and Educational Campaigns: Beyond physical and legal measures, there is a need for cultural change regarding how healthcare workers are viewed and treated. Education campaigns that highlight the critical role and rights of healthcare professionals could foster greater respect and understanding. Policy and Legislation: Advocacy for comprehensive national legislation, akin to the protections offered in other countries, could provide a uniform level of security and legal recourse for healthcare workers across all states and territories in India. Global Measures to Protect Healthcare Workers United Kingdom: The National Health Service (NHS) has a zero-tolerance policy towards violence. This policy is supported by dedicated security teams and an elaborate reporting system to handle incidents immediately and effectively. United States: In many states, assaults on healthcare workers are classified as felonies, providing a strong legal deterrent against such acts. The severity of the legal repercussions underscores the seriousness with which these incidents are treated. Australia: Hospitals have incorporated several safety protocols, including the deployment of security personnel and the installation of panic buttons. Mandatory de-escalation training for staff helps in managing potentially volatile situations without escalating to violence. Need for Action in India In light of the effective measures taken by these countries, there is a pressing need for India to enhance the protection of its healthcare workers: Legislative Action: Implementing a Central Protection Act could provide a legal framework for the protection of healthcare workers, similar to those in place in other countries. Adoption of Best Practices: By learning from the systems implemented internationally, India can develop a more robust approach to safeguarding healthcare workers. This might include stricter security protocols, comprehensive training for handling aggression, and more substantial legal penalties for offenders. Government Initiatives Ministry of Health’s Directives: Recent directives require the heads of medical institutions to file an FIR within six hours of any incident of violence against healthcare workers. NMC Guidelines: The National Medical Commission has mandated that medical colleges develop comprehensive safety policies and take immediate actions following any incident of violence. -Source: The Hindu, Air Typhoon Shanshan Context: Japan is on High alert as Typhoon Shanshan nears and could make landfall in western Japan. Relevance: GS-I: Geography (Physical geography – Climatology, Important Geophysical phenomena), GS-III: Disaster Management Dimensions of the Article: Tropical cyclone How are Cyclones Formed? Why are Cyclones formed in a spiralling pattern? What is a Low-pressure area? How are Low-Pressure Areas formed? Structure of a Cyclone Tropical cyclone A tropical cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a low-pressure center, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation, strong winds, and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms that produce heavy rain or squalls. Depending on its location and strength, a tropical cyclone is referred to by different names: Cyclones in the Indian Ocean Hurricanes in the Atlantic Typhoons in the Western Pacific and the South China Sea Willy-willies in Western Australia “Tropical” refers to the geographical origin of these systems, which form almost exclusively over tropical seas. “Cyclone” refers to their winds moving in a circle, whirling round their central clear eye, with their winds blowing counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. The opposite direction of circulation is due to the Coriolis effect. How are Cyclones Formed? Tropical cyclones typically form over large bodies of relatively warm water. Warm water > Evaporation > Rising up of air > Low Pressure area. They derive their energy through the evaporation of water from the ocean surface, which ultimately re-condenses into clouds and rain when moist air rises and cools to saturation. Water takes up heat from the atmosphere to change into vapour. When water vapour changes back to liquid form as raindrops, this heat is released to the atmosphere. The heat released to the atmosphere warms the air around. The air tends to rise and causes a drop in the pressure. More air rushes to the centre of the storm. This cycle is repeated. Why are Cyclones formed in a spiralling pattern? Simple answer is: Coriolis Effect. The Coriolis Effect causes any moving body on the rotating Earth to turn to the Right (clockwise) in the Northern Hemisphere and to the Left (counter clockwise) in the Southern Hemisphere. In Low-Pressure zones where air ascends, like in case of a cyclone, winds blowing from areas of high pressure inside towards areas of low pressure, are Deflected to the Right in Northern Hemisphere and to the Left in the Southern Hemisphere. Since they are deflected, they don’t arrive straight into the low-pressure zone, but instead end up circling around the low-pressure zone. What is a Low-pressure area? A low-pressure area, low area or low is a region on the topographic map where the air pressure is lower than that of surrounding locations. Low-pressure systems form under areas of wind divergence that occur in the upper levels of the atmosphere. The formation process of a low-pressure area is known as cyclogenesis. Within the field of meteorology, atmospheric divergence aloft occurs in two areas. The first area is on the east side of upper troughs, which form half of a Rossby wave within the Westerlies (a trough with large wavelength that extends through the troposphere). A second area of wind divergence aloft occurs ahead of embedded shortwave troughs, which are of smaller wavelength. Diverging winds aloft ahead of these troughs cause atmospheric lift within the troposphere below, which lowers surface pressures as upward motion partially counteracts the force of gravity. How are Low-Pressure Areas formed? Thermal lows form due to localized heating caused by greater sunshine over deserts and other land masses. Since localized areas of warm air are less dense than their surroundings, this warmer air rises, which lowers atmospheric pressure near that portion of the Earth’s surface. Large-scale thermal lows over continents help drive monsoon circulations. Low-pressure areas can also form due to organized thunderstorm activity over warm water. Structure of a Cyclone A cyclone’s center, known in a mature tropical cyclone as the eye, is the area of lowest atmospheric pressure in the region. Near the center, the pressure gradient force and the force from the Coriolis effect must be in an approximate balance, or the cyclone would collapse on itself as a result of the difference in pressure. The eye The eye of the storm is the centre. It’s a relatively calm space. When the eye passes over an area, winds slow down and everything feels like it has cleared up. But this is the proverbial calm before the storm, as the part that comes after the eye usually inflicts the most damage. The eyewall This is where the most effective part of a cyclone rests. The eyewall houses extremely high wind speeds, causing damage to both lives and property. It is a ring of thunderstorms, and changes in the eye or the eyewall affects the storm’s intensity. Rainbands These are the outer parts of a cyclone where sudden bursts of rain happen. There can also be gaps betwen rainbands where no rain or wind occurs. Landfall, what happens when a Cyclone reaches land from the ocean? Tropical cyclones dissipate when they can no longer extract sufficient energy from warm ocean water. A storm that moves over land will abruptly lose its fuel source and quickly lose intensity. A tropical cyclone can contribute to its own demise by stirring up deeper, cooler ocean waters. tropical cyclone can contribute to its own demise by stirring up deeper, cooler ocean waters. -Source: The Hindu, Air

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 26 August 2024

Contents: Green Hydrogen Mission Lakhpati Didi Sammelan Green Hydrogen Mission Focus: GS III: Infrastructure Why in News? Recently, the union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the Green Hydrogen Mission as a cornerstone of India’s strategy to decarbonize heavy industry, transportation, and power generation. He highlighted that this mission is crucial for driving innovation in clean technologies and achieving global climate goals. What is Green hydrogen? A colourless, odourless, tasteless, non-toxic and highly combustible gaseous substance, hydrogen is the lightest, simplest and most abundant member of the family of chemical elements in the universe. But a colour — green — prefixed to it makes hydrogen the “fuel of the future”. The ‘green’ depends on how the electricity is generated to obtain the hydrogen, which does not emit greenhouse gas when burned. Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis using renewable sources of energy such as solar, wind or hydel power. Hydrogen can be ‘grey’ and ‘blue’ too. Grey hydrogen is generated through fossil fuels such as coal and gas and currently accounts for 95% of the total production in South Asia. Blue hydrogen, too, is produced using electricity generated by burning fossil fuels but with technologies to prevent the carbon released in the process from entering the atmosphere. Green Hydrogen Importance Hydrogen is being used across the United States, Russia, China, France and Germany. Countries like Japan desire to become a hydrogen economy in future. Green hydrogen can in future be used for Electricity and drinking water generation, energy storage, transportation etc.  Green hydrogen can be used to provide water to the crew members in space stations. Energy storage- Compressed hydrogen tanks can store the energy longer and are easier to handle than lithium-ion batteries as they are lighter. Transport and mobility- Hydrogen can be used in heavy transport, aviation and maritime transport. What is the National Green Hydrogen Mission? The intent of the mission is to incentivise the commercial production of green hydrogen and make India a net exporter of the fuel.  The mission has laid out a target to develop green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne) per annum. This is alongside adding renewable energy capacity of about 125 GW (gigawatt) in the country. This will entail the decarbonisation of the industrial, mobility and energy sectors; reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and feedstock; developing indigenous manufacturing capabilities; creating employment opportunities; and developing new technologies such as efficient fuel cells. By 2030, the Centre hopes its investments will bring in investments worth ₹8 trillion and create over six lakh jobs. Moreover, about 50 MMT per annum of CO2 emissions are expected to be averted by 2030. As per its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement, India has committed to reduce emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030, from 2005 levels. Lakhpati Didi Sammelan Focus: GS II: Government policies and Interventions Why in News? The Prime Minister of India recently addressed Lakhpati Didi Sammelan in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. He handed out certificates and felicitated 11 lakh new Lakhpati Didis who recently became Lakhpati during the third term of the present government. Lakhpati Didi Initiative Holistic Approach: The Ministry of Rural Development adopts a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to ensure maximum impact through convergence, ultimately transforming the rural economy and enabling the emergence of ‘Lakhpati Didis.’ Announcement: The Lakhpati Didi Initiative was unveiled by the Prime Minister during his Independence Day speech on August 15, 2023. Objective: The primary goal of this initiative is to empower women to establish micro-enterprises within their respective villages. Scale: The government intends to train approximately two crore women through this program. Target: The initiative specifically focuses on providing training to women who are part of self-help groups (SHGs) to enable them to achieve a sustainable annual income of at least Rs 1 lakh per household. Execution: DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission) is spearheading the Lakhpati Didi Initiative. The approach involves encouraging SHG households to engage in multiple livelihood activities alongside value chain interventions, with the end goal of securing an annual income of Rs 1 lakh or more. Skill Training: Women under this scheme will receive training in a variety of skills including plumbing, LED bulb manufacturing, drone operation and repair, as well as tailoring and weaving. Income Opportunities: After completing their training, women will have access to income-generating opportunities that utilize their acquired skills.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 26 August 2024

CONTENTS Investing in Persons with Disabilities New-Age Gateway Devices, the Latest Health Threat Investing in Persons with Disabilities Context: Persons with disabilities (PwDs) continue to face widespread social stigma, marginalization across all sectors, and discrimination in education and employment, all of which undermine their dignity. Educational institutions often lack the infrastructure and support systems needed for PwDs, while workplaces fall short in implementing robust diversity policies that would ensure proper representation of PwDs. Relevance: GS2- Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections of the population by the Centre and States and the Performance of these Schemes Mains Question: Educational institutions lack the necessary infrastructure and workplaces lack robust diversity policies to give proper representation to persons with disabilities. Discuss. (10 Marks, 150 Words). Education for PwDs: According to a 2023 report on Nifty 50 companies, only five out of the 50 companies have more than 1% of PwDs on their payroll, with four of these being public sector companies. Additionally, data from the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People reveals that less than 1% of India’s educational institutions are disabled-friendly. Less than 40% of school buildings have ramps, and only about 17% have accessible restrooms. The Sarthak Educational Trust’s report, “Accessibility and Inclusion in Higher Education in India,” highlights that while the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, provides for reservations in government jobs and incentives in non-government jobs, implementation is severely lacking. The combination of inadequate infrastructure and insufficient inclusive policies severely limits the full participation of PwDs in society. Therefore, both public and private institutions must invest in uplifting PwDs. Changes Needed in the Indian Education System: The Indian education system needs an inclusive framework to better support PwDs. For instance, Harvard University in the U.S. has Local Disability Coordinators who specialize in helping PwDs find accommodations in the city. Similarly, Stanford University has a strong institutional structure that provides housing support and devices for PwDs, along with a comprehensive resource center for students with disabilities. Few Indian universities offer such robust models. In 2023, Shiv Nadar University introduced a disability support policy that provides personalized support to students based on their health condition each semester. Depending on the nature and severity of the disability, the Dean of Academics decides on academic accommodations, while the Dean of Students addresses other aspects. However, these measures are not standardized across institutions, leaving many students from diverse backgrounds unsupported. Despite the University Grants Commission’s draft guidelines for accessibility and inclusivity in higher education, which aim to ensure that admission announcements and advertisements are circulated in accessible formats, the representation of PwDs in Indian institutions remains low. Employment for PwDs: Regarding employment, despite legal requirements mandating reservations for PwDs and the creation of equal opportunity policies aimed at fostering an inclusive work environment and preventing workplace discrimination, many employers have not complied. To ensure these regulations are effectively enforced, states should take proactive steps to develop a compliance mechanism. An example to consider is Brazil, where companies with more than 100 employees are required to have PwDs make up 2%-5% of their workforce. Failure to comply can result in fines, with the amount determined by factors such as the company’s size and the frequency of violations. Additionally, some countries have introduced incentive systems. For instance, Japan offers subsidies to companies that employ individuals with disabilities. Pursuit of Dignity for PwDs: The pursuit of dignity for PwDs remains a challenge. British artist David Hevey once noted that “the history of the portrayal of disabled people is the history of oppressive and negative representation.” This has led to PwDs being viewed not as individuals with their own identities but as flawed versions of able-bodied people. Society often sees PwDs as pitiable or helpless, and there is a common misconception that they can only form relationships with others who are disabled. When combined with factors like caste or gender, disability can create a double or triple burden. Sociologist Colin Barnes has observed that PwDs are frequently depicted as objects of pity, violence, curiosity, and ridicule, as burdens on society, sexually abnormal, and generally incapable of participating in community life. This negative portrayal shapes societal attitudes towards PwDs. For example, a recent video featuring three former cricketers mocking PwDs went viral after India won the World Championship of Legends. Such incidents, along with the daily struggles and stigmatization PwDs face, highlight the failure of so-called “able-bodied people” to treat them with equal dignity. Conclusion: In his book ‘The Grammar of My Body’, Abhishek Anicca writes, “My friends say disabled people can be negative. I agree. We are so negative that sometimes the able-bodied mind never reaches us. That distance is too far… It is thus those who are creating the distance [who] should bridge the gap.” New-Age Gateway Devices, the Latest Health Threat Context: What happens when a supposedly healthier alternative turns out to be more dangerous than the original? This is exactly what is occurring with modern gateway devices like e-cigarettes, vaping pens, Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), heat-not-burn (HNB) devices, and other heated tobacco products (HTPs). Relevance: GS2- Health Mains Question: Portrayed as offering a healthier alternative to smoking and quitting tobacco, new-age devices like e-cigarettes, vaping pens etc are now causing a public health crisis among young people. Analyse. (10 Marks, 150 Words). Concerns Associated with New-Age Devices: These devices were marketed as healthier alternatives to smoking, designed to make quitting tobacco easier. However, the reality is quite different. A new pandemic is emerging. Rather than helping people quit tobacco, manufacturers of these new-age gateway devices have found a profitable market in children, leading to a surge in youth vaping and creating a new epidemic. For instance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2023, e-cigarettes were the most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students in the United States, with 2.1 million (7.7%) students using e-cigarettes, including 550,000 (4.6%) middle school students. These devices are now hooking a new generation on nicotine, exposing them to potential long-term health risks. Impact of these Devices on Children: Children have been enticed into trying and becoming addicted to e-cigarettes and vaping devices through targeted marketing of flavors like strawberry, cotton candy, pop rocks, and lemonade. Beyond the alleged predatory marketing tactics, mental health issues and the negative effects of excessive technology use are also pushing some children toward these devices. The psychological impact on children operates on two levels. First, children are increasingly vulnerable to new-age devices from a very young age. What was once primarily an adolescent issue—engaging in distracting activities and developing addictive behaviors—has now extended to children under 10, who are showing signs of vulnerability. The age group most at risk remains those between 10 and 20 years old, a demographic that manufacturers reportedly target with appealing advertising and enticing vape flavors. The colorful imagery associated with these new-age gateway devices suggests that they bring happiness and elevate social status, drawing in targeted children. In their desire to fit in, children often prioritize peer preferences over their own, leading them to embrace vaping and other harmful behaviors. Those who vape are more likely to experience loneliness and social isolation compared to their peers who do not. These psychological factors are contributing to a troubling rise in children being attracted to alluring electronic devices like vapes and e-cigarettes. A Gateway to Danger: Another critical aspect is the impact these habits have on the physical and mental well-being of children. While the physical effects, such as lung damage and the spread of e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injury (EVALI), have become apparent, it’s equally important to focus on the mental health impact of these new-age gateway devices on children. The Australian Institute of Family Studies, a statutory agency of the Australian government, has reported evidence indicating that vaping has harmful effects on those who use e-cigarettes. With the rising rates of e-cigarette use in Australia and globally, these new-age gateway devices are linked to mental health issues such as depressive symptoms, anxiety, perceived stress, and suicide-related behaviors among adolescents. Key risk factors include positive peer attitudes towards vaping and parental smoking. E-cigarettes are particularly addictive for individuals up to around the age of 25, a developmental stage that makes them especially susceptible to the structural and chemical changes caused by nicotine addiction. Once addiction sets in, it can increase the likelihood of developing other substance use disorders later in life, creating a vicious cycle. So, what is inside these new-age gateway devices that is driving this increased addiction? Survey Findings: In November 2022, *JAMA Network Open*, a medical journal published by the American Medical Association, released findings from a survey of over 150,000 respondents. The survey revealed that more adolescent e-cigarette users reported using their first tobacco product within five minutes of waking compared to users of cigarettes and other tobacco products combined. This highlights the powerful grip that nicotine addiction has on the adolescent brain. The study further explained that e-cigarettes are highly engineered drug delivery devices designed to create and sustain addiction. Later versions of e-cigarettes, particularly those developed after 2015, became more efficient at delivering nicotine. The addition of benzoic acid to the nicotine e-liquid produces protonated nicotine, which increases the addictive potential by making it easier for users to inhale large quantities of nicotine—levels that are difficult to achieve with traditional cigarettes or earlier e-cigarette models. This results in heightened addiction and a stronger mental dependency on these devices. Moreover, these new-age gateway devices are also being used to experiment with more potent substances such as cannabis, and even cocaine and heroin. Conclusion: Instead of aiding in quitting, these devices have sparked a public health crisis, causing physical harm and impacting the mental well-being of children. Many children, teenagers, and even parents mistakenly believe that vaping only involves harmless water vapor and pleasant flavors. The reality, however, is far more dangerous and can lead to a lifetime of substance abuse problems.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 26 August 2024

Contents: India’s first civilian space tourist returns Low Adoption rate of children with special needs Urban flood Kuno Cheetahs to be released into the wild Great Nicobar infrastructure project granted statutory environmental clearance Government to adopt Ruthless strategy to deal with Naxalism India’s first civilian space tourist returns Context: India’s first civilian space tourist Gopichand Thotakura returned to the country. He has set the record of being the second-ever Indian citizen to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma, a former Indian Air Force pilot, who travelled to space in 1984. He was one of the six crew members ofNew Shephard-25 (NS-25) mission by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ space company Blue Origin. Relevance: GS III: Space Dimensions of the Article: Space Tourism Space Tourism Definition: A sector of the aviation industry offering tourists the chance to experience space travel for leisure, recreation, or business. Market Growth: Valued at $848.28 million in 2023. Expected to reach $27,861.99 million by 2032. Types of Space Tourism: Sub-orbital spaceflight: Takes passengers just beyond the Kármán line (100 km above sea level). Offers a few minutes in outer space before returning to Earth. Example: Blue Origin’s New Shepherd mission. Orbital spaceflight: Takes passengers to an altitude of nearly 1.3 million feet. Passengers can spend from a few days to over a week in space. Example: SpaceX’s Falcon 9 mission in September 2021 took four passengers to an altitude of 160 km for three days in orbit. Challenges: Cost: Typically, a passenger must pay at least a million dollars for the trip. Environmental Concerns: Rockets emit gaseous and solid chemicals into the upper atmosphere. A 2022 study by UCL, University of Cambridge, and MIT found rocket soot emissions significantly warm the atmosphere. Safety: As of 2023, 676 people have flown into space with 19 fatalities, resulting in an approximate 3% fatality rate. -Source: The Hindu, The Indian Express        Low Adoption rate of children with special needs Context: Despite the rise of the number of children with special needs for adoption, the adoption rate is still significantly low. As per the official date, over 18,179 adoptions recorded since 2019, only 1,404 involved children with special needs find homes. Children with special needs require additional support due to physical, developmental, behavioural or emotional challenges. It is significant to note that the adoptions of children with special needs have shown a marked increase over the past five years except for a slight dip in 2023-2024. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: About the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) Benefits of Adoption for Children and Society Adoption Trends and Statistics in India Challenges Related to Adoption in India About the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA): CARA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Women & Child Development, Government of India. Role as Central Authority: Designated as the Central Authority for handling inter-country adoptions in line with the Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption, 1993, ratified by India in 2003. Functions: Nodal body regulating the adoption of “orphaned, surrendered, and abandoned children” in India. Monitors and regulates entities such as State Adoption Resource Agencies (SARAs), Specialized Adoption Agencies (SAAs), Authorized Foreign Adoption Agencies (AFAAs), Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), and District Child Protective Units (DPUs). Legal Framework in India: Child placement with a family is governed by the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956; the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890; and the Juvenile Justice Act, 2000. Mandatory registration of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) and linking to CARA is outlined in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption: The Convention establishes safeguards for children and families involved in inter-country adoptions. Aims to prevent the illegal abduction, sale, or trafficking of children during adoptions. Objectives: Protect children and families from illegal or ill-prepared inter-country adoptions. Prevent abduction, sale, or trafficking of children. Establish minimum standards while recognizing that it does not serve as a uniform law of adoption. Benefits of Adoption for Children and Society Loving and Stable Family Environment: Adoption provides children deprived of parental care with a loving and stable family environment. Holistic Development and Well-being: Ensures the holistic development and well-being of adopted children, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, social, and educational needs. Social and Economic Contribution: Contributes to the social and economic development of the country by: Reducing the burden on the state and society in caring for orphaned, abandoned, or surrendered children. Empowering adopted children to become productive and responsible citizens. Positive Adoption Culture: Cultivates a positive adoption culture in society by: Breaking down social stigmas associated with adoption. Raising awareness about the numerous benefits of adoption. Empowerment of Children: Empowers children through adoption, providing them with opportunities for growth, education, and a brighter future. Family and Community Support: Strengthens the fabric of families and communities by fostering support networks around adopted children. Diversity and Inclusion: Promotes diversity and inclusion by creating families that embrace children from different backgrounds, cultures, and communities. Fulfillment of Parental Desires: Allows prospective adoptive parents to fulfill their desires of parenthood, creating a positive impact on their lives. Humanitarian and Compassionate Act: Reflects a humanitarian and compassionate act, demonstrating the potential for positive change through acts of care and kindness. Lifetime Bonds and Relationships: Builds lifetime bonds and relationships between adoptive parents and children, fostering love, support, and a sense of belonging. Adoption Trends and Statistics in India Annual Adoption Figures: Approximately 4,000 child adoptions occur annually in India, according to the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA). Orphan Population: As of 2021, there are over 3 Crore orphans in the country. Adoption Mismatch: There is a significant mismatch between the number of children available for legal adoption and prospective adoptive parents (PAPs). CARA’s Data (October 2023): 2,146 children were available for adoption. 30,669 PAPs have been registered for in-country adoption. Waiting Period for PAPs: PAPs face a waiting period of three to four years to adopt a healthy and young child due to the imbalance between registered PAPs and available children. Age Preferences of PAPs: 69.4% of registered PAPs prefer children aged zero to two years. 10.3% prefer children aged two to four years. 14.8% prefer children aged four to six years. Specialised Adoption Agencies (SAAs): Out of 760 districts in India, only 390 districts have Specialised Adoption Agencies. Challenges Related to Adoption in India Complex Adoption Process: Adoption in India, governed by multiple laws, involves intricate steps, including registration, home study, child referral, matching, acceptance, pre-adoption foster care, court order, and follow-up. Extended Timeline: Factors like child availability, parental preferences, administrative efficiency, and legal formalities contribute to the prolonged duration of the adoption process. Child Returns and Challenges: An unusual upsurge in child returns, particularly affecting girls, those with special needs, and older children, raises concerns. Disabled and older children face extended adjustment periods, compounded by inadequate preparation and counselling during the transition. Decline in Adoption of Special Needs Children: Only 40 children with disabilities were adopted between 2018 and 2019, representing approximately 1% of total adoptions. Annual trends indicate a decline in domestic adoptions of children with special needs, revealing a disparity in adoption patterns. Illegal Adoption Activities: The diminishing pool of adoptable children contributes to an increase in illegal adoption activities. Threats of child trafficking, especially during the pandemic, raise ethical and legal concerns, impacting poor or marginalized families. Legal Recognition for LGBTQ+ Families: Legal challenges for LGBTQ+ families seeking adoption hinder their ability to become adoptive parents, leading to an increase in illegal adoptions within the queer community. Social Stigma and Limited Awareness: Social stigma surrounding adoption, particularly for certain demographics, affects adoption rates. Limited awareness about the adoption process contributes to misconceptions and creates barriers for prospective adoptive parents. Corruption and Legal Disputes: Instances of corruption within the adoption process compromise its integrity. Legal disputes and litigation further slow down adoption proceedings, adding to the complexities of the overall process. -Source: The Hindu Urban flood Context: Several part of the Gujarat received  heavy to very heavy rains in the last 24 hours (on August 26, 2024). The Government shifted hundreds of people to safe places after low-lying areas in Navsari and Valsad districts were inundated due to a rise in the water level of monsoon rivers. The Union Home Minister assured Central assistance to State. Relevance: GS Paper 3 – Disaster and disaster management Dimensions of the Article: Urban Flooding Events Understanding the Problem of Urban Flooding Urban Flooding Events: This situation is not new; similar flooding caused by heavy rains has already occurred in cities like Hyderabad (2000), Srinagar (2014), Chennai (2021), and Bengaluru (2022). Due to causes including unplanned urbanisation, population expansion, and the destruction of water bodies due to construction operations, the frequency and severity of these events have increased. Flooding’s aftereffects, such as water logging and traffic congestion, have a big effect on urban dwellers’ life. A comprehensive strategy that includes increased understanding, infrastructure renovation, and improved urban planning is essential to overcoming this difficulty. Understanding the Problem of Urban Flooding Conducting thorough research in all cities to comprehend the catchment areas and flooding dangers connected with urban water bodies and land use patterns is an essential first step in combating urban flooding. This data-driven strategy can help in the creation of short-, medium-, and long-term strategies to rehabilitate water bodies and better control flooding. Participatory lake and river management plans are essential to including local residents in the maintenance of water bodies and ensuring their sustainability. In order to better manage flood risk, it is important to emphasise the use of geographic information systems (GIS), which may be used to track encroachments and analyse their seasonality. Purchasing Reliable Early Warning Systems: To offer real-time updates on local weather changes in light of shifting weather patterns, investments in cutting-edge early warning technologies, such as Doppler radar, are required. It can help with prompt reaction and risk assessment to integrate local rainfall data with regional flood control activities. As cities get ready for anticipated flooding occurrences, models for flooding hotspots and flood risk maps can direct urban design and insurance product development. Creating extensive databases for the entire city can help with disaster relief and assistance during flooding-related emergencies. Redesigning Stormwater and Drainage Networks: The majority of Indian cities do not have functional sewage networks, which emphasises the need to upgrade and expand stormwater and drainage systems. Achieving effective water management requires the creation of thorough drainage master plans and surveys of existing pipelines. It is important to emphasise how water-logging and flooding concerns can be reduced by separating drainage and stormwater networks. Improving the effectiveness of the civic organisations in charge of these networks requires addressing delays and coordination issues. Planning for Resilient Cities: An improved approach to urban planning is necessary for long-term solutions. For successful outcomes, coordination is essential between the various entities and agencies involved in managing waterbodies. A well-defined urban water policy can offer direction and a legal framework for protecting water bodies. Successful water body restoration initiatives can be achieved through promoting civic engagement through community-driven strategies, as shown by examples like the wastewater treatment facilities in Mangalore and the Kaikondrahalli Lake in Bengaluru. Local Success Stories to Be Replicated: It is crucial to locate and imitate effective examples of water body restoration and urban resilience. Other cities’ policies can benefit from studying programmes like the wastewater treatment facilities in Mangalore and Bengaluru’s community-driven approach to lake revival. Sustainable solutions for the future are ensured by empowering communities to actively participate in conservation initiatives and customising programmes to conserve local ecology. Promoting widespread rainwater collection in cities The broad implementation of rainwater harvesting is essential to easing the burden on drainage systems and promoting sustainable water management. Reducing stormwater runoff and replenishing groundwater can be considerably aided by putting rainwater harvesting techniques into place in residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Governments can encourage the collection of rainwater through legislative initiatives and public awareness campaigns. Making Urban Green Infrastructure and Green Spaces Urban green space preservation and creation are essential for reducing the effects of flooding. The risk of floods is decreased by the natural absorption of excess rainwater by parks, gardens, and wetlands. Stormwater management can be improved and sustainable urban growth can be facilitated by including urban green infrastructure, such as green roofs and permeable pavements. Building community involvement and awareness It is crucial to educate urban dwellers about the value of water management, flood preparedness, and community involvement. Improved disaster response and decreased risk can result from involving local communities in planning for flood response and early warning systems. Community-based programmes can foster a sense of responsibility and ownership for water bodies, resulting in their long-term preservation. -Source: The Hindu, The Indian Express        Kuno Cheetahs to be released into the wild Context: The African Cheetahs that was brought to India as part of the world’s first intercontinental translocation of the wild cats will soon be released into the wild again at Kuno national park. After spending over an year in the enclosure, the officials designated the Cheetahs “fit for release” and are able to hunt. Currently, there are 25 cheetahs at Kuno — 13 adults and 12 cubs, born at the national park. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Details about the Deaths of Cheetahs in India’s Translocation Project About Cheetah Details about the Deaths of Cheetahs in India’s Translocation Project The Cheetah Translocation Project aimed for a 50% survival rate for the first year, which is 10 out of 20 cheetahs. Experts suggest that the project overestimated Kuno National Park’s carrying capacity for cheetahs. Predation is the biggest killer of cheetahs, accounting for 53.2% of mortality according to a South African study. Lions, leopards, hyenas, and jackals are the primary predators responsible for cheetah deaths. Cheetahs experience high cub mortality rates of up to 90% in protected areas due to predation. In India, leopards are likely to be the chief predator of cheetahs as lions are mostly absent except in Gujarat. Other causes of mortality include holding camps, immobilization/transit, tracking devices, and other wildlife killing cheetahs, including cubs. The Cheetah Translocation Project is considering the following options: Preparing Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in the Chambal River valley as the second home for cheetahs. Moving a few cheetahs from Kuno to the safety of an 80-sq-km fenced area in Rajasthan’s Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve. However, both options would mean shifting the project’s goal from establishing the cheetah in an open landscape to managing the African imports as a few pocket populations in fenced-in or restricted areas About Cheetah: The cheetah is one of the oldest of the big cat species, with ancestors that can be traced back more than five million years to the Miocene era. The cheetah is also the world’s fastest land mammal that lives in Africa and Asia. African Cheetah IUCN status – Vulnerable CITES status – Appendix-I of the List. This List comprises of migratory species that have been assessed as being in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their range. Habitat – Around 6,500-7,000 African cheetahs present in the wild. Physical Characteristics – Bigger in size as compared to Asiatic Cheetah. Asian Cheetah IUCN Status – Critically Endangered. CITES – Appendix 1 of the list Habitat – 40-50 found only in Iran. Physical Characteristics – Smaller and paler than the African cheetah. Has more fur, a smaller head and a longer neck. Usually have red eyes and they have a more cat-like appearance. -Source: Indian Express Great Nicobar infrastructure project granted statutory environmental clearance Context: As per the latest declaration by the Union Environment Minister, the Great Nicobar infrastructure project was granted statutory environmental, forest and coastal clearances after observing “meticulous due diligence” and after adhering to all rules and regulations. The project involves construction of a transshipment port, an international airport, a power plant, a township and allied infrastructure in the Greater Nicobar island. It was given a green signal by the environment ministry in 2022. The project invited several criticisms as it could pose grave threat to indigenous tribal groups and flora and fauna. Relevance: GS3- Growth and Development, Environmental Conservation Dimensions of the Article: Great Nicobar Island The Great Nicobar Project Rationale Behind the Project Associated Concerns Conclusion Great Nicobar Island: Great Nicobar Island is the largest and southernmost of the Nicobar Islands, spanning 910 square kilometers in the southeastern Bay of Bengal. It is predominantly covered by tropical rainforest and sparsely inhabited. Indira Point, situated on Great Nicobar Island, marks India’s southernmost tip and is approximately 90 nautical miles (less than 170 km) from Sabang at the northern tip of Sumatra, the largest island in the Indonesian archipelago. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands comprise 836 islands grouped into the Andaman Islands in the north and the Nicobar Islands in the south. They are separated by the 10° Channel, which spans 150 kilometers wide. Great Nicobar Island hosts two national parks, a biosphere reserve, and small communities of the Shompen, Onge, Andamanese, and Nicobarese tribal peoples, alongside a few thousand non-tribal settlers. The Great Nicobar Project: The Great Nicobar Island (GNI) project, initiated in 2021, is a large-scale endeavor planned for the southernmost region of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It aims to establish a trans-shipment port, an international airport, township infrastructure, and a 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant on the island. The project was greenlit following a NITI Aayog report that highlighted the island’s strategic location, equidistant from Colombo in Sri Lanka to the southwest, and Port Klang (Malaysia) and Singapore to the southeast. Managed by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO), the ambitious infrastructure initiative includes an International Container Trans-shipment Terminal (ICTT) and a greenfield international airport. Positioned near the Malacca Strait, a vital route connecting the Indian Ocean with the Pacific, the ICTT is expected to integrate Great Nicobar into the regional and global maritime trade network as a key hub for cargo transshipment. The proposed site for the ICTT and power plant is Galathea Bay, located at the southeastern tip of Great Nicobar Island, an area devoid of human settlement. The Great Nicobar Project includes plans for a trans-shipment port, an international airport, township development, and a 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant across an estimated 130 sq. km. of virgin forest. It has received stage-1 environmental clearance, a mandatory requirement from an expert committee. In August 2023, the government informed Parliament that approximately 9.6 lakh trees could be felled for the project, with compensatory afforestation planned in Haryana, thousands of kilometers away from the unique rainforest ecosystem of Great Nicobar. The Galathea Bay in the Nicobar Islands harbors numerous rare species such as the leatherback turtle, whose future is jeopardized by the project’s development plans. Rationale Behind the Project: The upgrade aims to enhance the capability to deploy additional military forces, larger warships, aircraft, missile batteries, and troops. Securing comprehensive surveillance of the archipelago and establishing a robust military deterrent at Great Nicobar Island are crucial for India’s national security strategy. Due to its proximity to the Malacca Strait, a critical route linking the Indian Ocean and the Pacific, Great Nicobar Island’s International Container Trans-shipment Terminal (ICTT) is expected to position it as a significant participant in regional and global maritime trade. The Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean regions hold immense strategic importance for India, primarily due to concerns over the increasing presence and influence of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) of China. India is particularly wary of China’s efforts to bolster its naval capabilities at strategic chokepoints in the Indo-Pacific, including the Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok Straits. Additionally, China’s establishment of a military facility on the Coco Islands, situated just 55 km north of India’s Andaman & Nicobar Islands, underscores India’s concerns. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands play a pivotal role in India’s maritime security architecture in the region. The government argues that its intention is to utilize the strategic position of Great Nicobar Island, located just 90 km from the western end of the Malacca Strait, a crucial shipping route connecting the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. However, critics and some of the government’s policy advisors believe that promoting tourism is a significant underlying reason for the project. The Environment Ministry, responsible for environmental regulations, has chosen not to disclose details about the project. Information regarding the environmental clearance process and the assessment, typically public documents, has been withheld. Additionally, there appears to be urgency from the island administration to move forward while disregarding the consent rights of the local tribes, especially the Shompen. The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, a constitutional body, has demanded an explanation from the district administration on these issues. Associated Concerns: Impact on Indigenous Tribes: The Shompen and Nicobarese, identified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) of hunter-gatherers, have a population estimated in the hundreds. They reside within a tribal reserve on Great Nicobar Island. There are serious concerns that the proposed infrastructure upgrade could severely affect the Shompen tribe and their traditional lifestyle, closely intertwined with the island’s natural surroundings. Threat to Island Ecology: The project’s implementation is anticipated to significantly impact Great Nicobar Island’s ecology, involving the felling of nearly a million trees. There are fears that the construction of the port could devastate coral reefs, affecting the local marine ecosystem, and pose risks to terrestrial species like the Nicobar Megapode bird and leatherback turtles, which nest in the Galathea Bay area. This portion of land constitutes approximately 15% of Great Nicobar Island’s total area and represents one of India’s largest forest diversions in a globally and nationally unique rainforest ecosystem. Seismic Vulnerability: The proposed port site is situated in a region prone to seismic activity, which saw permanent subsidence of about 15 feet during the 2004 tsunami. This raises concerns about the safety and feasibility of constructing a large-scale infrastructure project in such a high-risk, disaster-prone area. Lack of Adequate Consultation: There are allegations that the local administration did not sufficiently consult the Tribal Council of Great and Little Nicobar Islands, as required by law. Conclusion: In April 2023, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) declined to intervene in the environmental and forest clearances granted to the project but ordered the formation of a high-power committee to review these clearances. The National Green Tribunal had appointed a committee, led by the Environment Ministry’s Secretary, to submit a report on the approval of forest clearances, yet this report remains undisclosed. Without transparency, the government would be imprudent to undertake such extensive changes to the islands. Given its fresh mandate, it should promptly reassess its approach. -Source: The Indian Express        Government to adopt Ruthless strategy to deal with Naxalism Context: Recently, the Union Home Minister announced that country will be free of the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) by March 2026. The Chhattisgarh government would announce a “new look” surrender policy in 1-2 months. Nearly 17,000 people, including Maoists, security forces and civilians, have died in LWE-related incidents in the country. There was a 53% decline in Maoist-related cases and 70% drop in deaths due to LWE violence in the past 10 years. Relevance: GS III: Security Challenges Dimensions of the Article: Understanding Naxalism Causes of Naxalism Government Initiatives to Combat Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) Understanding Naxalism Origin and Name Derives its name from Naxalbari village in West Bengal, where it originated as a rebellion against local landlords over a land dispute. Spread and Characteristics Spread across Eastern India, particularly in less developed areas of states like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. Left-wing extremists (LWE), also known as Maoists globally and Naxalites in India, lead the movement. Ideology and Objectives Advocate for armed revolution to overthrow the Indian government and establish a communist state based on Maoist principles. View the state as oppressive and exploitative, seeking to address socio-economic grievances through armed struggle and people’s war. Activities and Strategies Engage in guerrilla warfare, attacks on security forces, extortion, intimidation, and propaganda. Aim to capture state power through armed insurgency, mass mobilization, and strategic alliances. Target government institutions, infrastructure, economic interests, collaborators, and informants. Operate parallel governance structures in certain controlled areas, providing basic services and dispensing justice. Status of LWE in India Trends in Violence 2022 witnessed the lowest number of violent incidents and deaths in Naxal-hit areas in the last four decades. Violent incidents reduced by 77% in 2022 compared to the peak in 2010. Number of affected districts dropped from 90 to 45. Deaths of security forces and civilians in LWE violence decreased by 90% in 2022 compared to 2010. States Affected by LWE Affected States Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Kerala. Red Corridor Central, eastern, and southern regions of India experiencing severe Naxalism-Maoist insurgency. Causes of Naxalism Economic Factors Thrives in underdeveloped regions with high poverty rates. Adivasi and Dalit communities face social exclusion and lack access to basic necessities, fostering resentment and receptiveness to Naxalite ideology. Displacement of Adivasis from traditional lands due to mining and development projects creates anger and a sense of injustice, exploited by Naxalites. Exploitation and Marginalization Tribal communities vulnerable to exploitation by landlords, moneylenders, and mining companies, positioning Naxalites as protectors against such exploitation. Dalits, facing social and economic marginalization, may find Naxalism appealing as it challenges the existing caste hierarchy. Weak Governance Flourishes in areas with weak government presence and poor infrastructure, allowing Naxalites to operate with less interference. State governments often neglect addressing Naxalism, considering it a central government issue, leading to a lack of initiatives to combat it. Perceived Failure of Democratic System Naxalites believe the democratic system has failed to address their needs and grievances, offering a violent alternative path to change. Impact of Globalization Discontent with the impact of globalization, particularly displacement due to land acquisition for corporations, can contribute to Naxalite support. Operational Challenges LWE groups operate in remote and inaccessible areas with dense forests and hilly terrains, making it challenging for security forces to track them down. Government Initiatives to Combat Left-Wing Extremism (LWE): Operation Octopus: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has undertaken a significant operation known as ‘Octopus’ in the heavily mined ‘Burha Pahar’ hilly range within the Garhwa district, bordering Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. This operation marks a substantial success, marking the first instance where the force successfully eliminated Naxal influence from the area. Operation Double Bull: Launched in the dense jungles of the Bulbul area in Lohardaga and neighboring districts of Jharkhand. Greyhounds: Established in 1989 as an elite anti-Naxal force. Operation Green Hunt: Commenced in 2009-10, entailing a massive deployment of security forces in Naxal-affected regions. Aspirational Districts Programme: Introduced in 2018, with the objective of swiftly transforming districts that have exhibited comparatively slower progress in key social indicators. SAMADHAN doctrine: A comprehensive strategy for addressing the LWE issue, encompassing short-term and long-term policies formulated at various levels. SAMADHAN stands for: S – Smart Leadership, A – Aggressive Strategy, M – Motivation and Training, A – Actionable Intelligence, D – Dashboard Based KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and KRAs (Key Result Areas), H – Harnessing Technology, A – Action plan for each Theatre, N – No access to Financing. ROSHNI: A special initiative under the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (formerly Ajeevika Skills), launched in June 2013. ROSHNI focuses on providing training and placement opportunities for rural youth from 27 LWE-affected districts across nine states. Additionally, the government has undertaken measures such as intelligence sharing, and the establishment of separate units like the 66 Indian Reserved Battalion (IRBs), as well as specialized CRPF battalions including the COBRA battalion and Bastariya battalion, aimed at curbing the activities of LWE organizations. Efforts by civil society and peace activists to broker ceasefires and facilitate dialogue between the Maoists and security forces, advocating for the pursuit of tribal causes through democratic channels, have been met with resistance from the insurgents. -Source: The Hindu, The Indian Express     

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 24 August 2024

CONTENTS Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) Context: A two day workshop was held on the “Legal & Regulatory Frameworks and Technical Considerations for Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS)” on 22nd -23rd August 2024 at The Oberoi, New Delhi. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) Significance of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) Benefits and Applications of CCUS Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) CCUS encompasses a set of technologies and processes designed to address carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions originating from significant point sources like power plants, industrial facilities, and refineries. The core aim of CCUS is to prevent the release of CO2 into the atmosphere, representing a crucial strategy for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in various industries. Key Steps in CCUS Implementation Capture Process: This step involves seizing CO2 emissions at their source before they are released. Various capture methods are employed, such as post-combustion capture, pre-combustion capture, and oxy-fuel combustion. Transportation: This stage encompasses the movement of compressed CO2, either by ship or pipeline, from the point of capture to the storage site. Storage: The transported CO2 finds its storage in underground geological formations, which may include depleted oil and gas fields or deep saline aquifers. Utilization: After capture, CO2 can be repurposed in various applications instead of being released into the atmosphere. Utilization can involve incorporating CO2 into industrial processes, such as the production of chemicals or fuels. Significance of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) Policy Emphasis: The NITI Aayog’s report, ‘Policy Framework and Deployment Mechanism for Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage in India,’ underscores CCUS as a pivotal strategy for emission reduction, particularly in challenging sectors. Hard-to-abate industries, including steel, cement, and petrochemicals, benefit significantly from CCUS interventions. Global Imperative: The IPCC highlights the indispensability of CCUS technologies in achieving global net zero emissions, emphasizing its role as a crucial deployment mechanism. Benefits and Applications of CCUS Grid Flexibility: Incorporating CCUS into the energy mix enhances flexibility in the energy grid. Low-Carbon Energy Production: CCUS facilitates the production of low-carbon electricity and hydrogen, with the latter serving as a direct substitute for fossil fuels. This diversity contributes to energy security, aligning with the priorities of governments worldwide. Applications of CCUS in Industries Concrete and Cement Industry: CCUS technology captures CO2 emitted during the firing of limestone and clay in the concrete and cement industry. Recovered CO2 is injected into concrete mixtures, enhancing strength and durability through a process known as carbonation. Synthetic Gas Production: CCUS serves as a source of CO2 for synthetic gas production, a crucial component for the further production of bio-jet fuel, supporting sustainable aviation fuel initiatives. Fine Chemicals Industry: CCUS is employed in the fine chemicals industry by capturing CO2, blending it with biomass, and transforming it into oxygenated compounds like high-functional plastics. Infrastructure Utilization: CCUS enables industries to continue using existing infrastructure, such as power plants and manufacturing facilities, reducing the need for significant capital investments in new, low-carbon alternatives. Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan Context: With an aim of reaching out to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) habitations and PVTG families in 194 districts across the country, the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs is running a nationwide Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign and Beneficiary Saturation Camps for the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha AbhiyaN (PM-JANMAN), from 23rd August, 2024 till 10th September, 2024. Relevance: GS II: Government policies and Interventions Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN): Empowering Tribal Communities Comprehensive Scheme: PM JANMAN, comprising Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes, is a holistic initiative targeting 11 critical interventions through nine ministries, with a particular focus on the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Key Interventions: Aims to address 11 critical interventions, including permanent housing, road connectivity, piped water supply, mobile medical units, hostel construction, ‘Anganwadi’ facilities, and skill development centers. Additional Ministries’ Involvement: Beyond the 11 critical interventions, other ministries contribute to the mission’s success. Ministry of Ayush: Establishes Ayush Wellness Centres based on existing norms. Extends Ayush facilities to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) habitations through Mobile Medical Units. Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Facilitates skill and vocational training in PVTG habitations, multipurpose centers, and hostels, aligning with the specific skills of these communities.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 24 August 2024

CONTENTS The Road to 2047 for Indian Agriculture Lateral Entry in Bureaucracy: A Double-Edged Sword The Road to 2047 for Indian Agriculture Context: India’s centennial year of independence in 2047 is still some time away, but the goal of becoming a developed nation is pressing. To achieve this, a significant increase in per capita Gross National Income (GNI) is necessary, requiring it to rise to about six times its current level. This calls for a comprehensive development strategy, particularly in agriculture. Relevance: GS3- Direct and Indirect Farm Subsidies Public Distribution System (PDS) Buffer Stocks & Food Security Agricultural Marketing Mains Question: The road to 2047 for Indian agriculture presents both challenges and opportunities. Discuss. (15 Marks, 250 Words). Transforming Indian Agriculture: Transforming Indian agriculture is crucial and depends on adopting sustainable practices that maintain long-term productivity and environmental health. Innovations such as precision farming, genetically modified crops, and advanced irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems are key to this transformation. For example, the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) has covered 7.8 million hectares, promoting water-use efficiency through micro-irrigation. The scheme’s ₹93,068 crore allocation for 2021-26 highlights the government’s dedication to sustainable water management. Associated Challenges: India’s agricultural sector faces several challenges, including climate change, land degradation, and market access issues. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), launched in 2016, offers financial assistance for crop losses. With 495 million farmers enrolled and claims exceeding ₹1.45 lakh crore, the scheme is a cornerstone of agricultural risk management. Additionally, the Electronic National Agriculture Market (eNAM), introduced in 2016, integrates existing markets through an electronic platform. By September 2023, 1,361 mandis had been integrated, benefiting 1.76 million farmers and facilitating trade worth ₹2.88 lakh crore. This initiative enhances market access and ensures better price realization for farmers. A Growing Disparity: Despite nearly 46% of the workforce being employed in agriculture, the sector contributes only about 18% to the GDP, revealing a significant imbalance. If current trends persist, this disparity is likely to widen. Since 1991-92, the overall GDP has grown at an annual rate of 6.1%, while agricultural GDP has lagged behind at 3.3%. Under the current administration, overall GDP growth was 5.9%, with agriculture growing at 3.6%. However, this growth is insufficient for a sector that is so vital to the nation’s socio-economic structure. By 2047, agriculture’s share of GDP might decrease to 7%-8%, yet it could still employ over 30% of the workforce if substantial structural changes are not made. This suggests that maintaining the current growth path will not be enough. Although the expected 7.6% overall GDP growth for 2023-24 is encouraging, the agricultural GDP’s weak growth of 0.7%, largely due to unseasonal rains, is concerning. Moreover, United Nations projections estimate that India’s population will reach 1.5 billion by 2030 and 1.59 billion by 2040. Addressing the food needs of this growing population will be critical, especially considering an estimated food expenditure elasticity of 0.45, leading to an expected annual food demand growth of approximately 2.85%, given a population growth rate of 0.85%. India’s real per capita income increased by 41% from 2011-12 to 2021-22 and is expected to accelerate further. However, after 2023, the expenditure elasticity is anticipated to decline, meaning a 5% increase in per capita expenditure will correlate with only a 2% growth in demand. The demand for different commodities will vary, with meat demand expected to grow by 5.42% and rice demand by just 0.34%. To meet these challenges, it is crucial to rationalize food and fertilizer subsidies and redirect the savings toward agricultural research, development, innovation, and extension services. Several Initiatives: Numerous initiatives have been introduced to enhance farmer prosperity and promote sustainable agricultural growth. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), launched in 2019, provides ₹6,000 annually to farmers in three installments. This scheme has already benefited over 118 million farmers, offering essential financial support. Another significant initiative is the Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme, which aims to optimize soil nutrient use and boost agricultural productivity. Over 230 million SHCs have been distributed, giving farmers valuable insights into soil health and nutrient management. In 2023, the government also led the promotion of millets during the International Year of Millets, raising awareness of these nutritious grains both domestically and internationally. The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, with a ₹1 lakh crore financing facility, supports the development and modernization of post-harvest management infrastructure. In just three years, over 38,326 projects have been approved, mobilizing ₹30,030 crore in the agricultural infrastructure sector. These initiatives have generated employment for more than 580,000 people and increased farmer incomes by 20%-25% through better price realization. Additionally, the Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SVAMITVA) initiative aims to ensure transparent property ownership in rural areas. As of September 2023, more than 16 million property cards have been issued, enhancing land security and improving credit access for farmers. Strategic Planning: The government’s strategic planning for agriculture up to 2047 focuses on several key areas: forecasting future demand for agricultural products, learning from past growth drivers, addressing current challenges, and exploring potential opportunities in the agricultural sector. Projections indicate that the total demand for food grains in 2047-48 will range from 402 million to 437 million tonnes, with production expected to exceed demand by 10%-13% under the Business-As-Usual (BAU) scenario. However, meeting this demand sustainably will require substantial investments in agricultural research, infrastructure, and policy support. The 2024-25 Budget, with an allocation of ₹20 lakh crore for targeted agricultural credit and the launch of the Agriculture Accelerator Fund, underscores the government’s proactive approach to fostering agricultural innovation and growth. Conclusion: The road to 2047 presents both challenges and opportunities for Indian agriculture. By adopting sustainable practices, leveraging technological innovations, and implementing strategic initiatives, India can enhance farmer incomes, meet the food demands of its growing population, and achieve inclusive, sustainable development. Lateral Entry in Bureaucracy: A Double-Edged Sword Context: The introduction of lateral appointments in India’s bureaucracy has ignited significant debate, particularly because these appointments lack reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). The issue gained attention following a recent UPSC advertisement for 45 senior positions, which did not include the constitutionally mandated quotas, sparking concerns about social justice and the representation of disadvantaged groups in top government roles. Relevance: GS2- Appointment to various Constitutional Posts, Powers, Functions and Responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies. Statutory, Regulatory and various Quasi-judicial Bodies. Mains Question: The implementation of lateral entry has sparked serious concerns about social justice and the representation of marginalised groups in the Indian bureaucracy. Analyse in the context of the recent UPSC advertisement for 45 senior positions via lateral entry. (15 Marks, 250 Words). What is the Lateral Entry Scheme? Overview: Lateral entry refers to the process of appointing individuals from outside the government directly into mid-level and senior positions. The scheme aims to introduce domain-specific expertise and fresh perspectives to enhance governance. These “lateral entrants” are typically appointed on contracts for three years, which can be extended up to a maximum of five years. Origin and Implementation: The concept of lateral entry was first introduced during the 2004-09 period and was strongly endorsed by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) established in 2005. The idea gained further traction in 2017 when NITI Aayog recommended it to bring in specialized expertise and new perspectives. In its 3-year Action Agenda in 2017, NITI Aayog, along with the Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGoS) on Governance, recommended the induction of personnel at middle and senior management levels in the central government. Eligibility: Eligible candidates for lateral entry are those with domain expertise and a proven track record in relevant fields, such as the private sector, state governments, autonomous bodies, or public sector undertakings. The selection criteria focus primarily on professional accomplishments and subject matter expertise. Reservation in Lateral Entry: Lateral entry positions are exempt from the reservation system due to the “13-point roster” policy. This policy calculates a candidate’s placement on a list of job openings based on their group’s quota percentage (SC, ST, OBC, and EWS) as a fraction of one hundred. Since each lateral entry position is considered a “Single Post,” the reservation system does not apply, allowing these appointments to bypass reservation guidelines. Current Round of Recruitment: In the current round of recruitment, 45 vacancies have been advertised separately for each department. If these positions were grouped together, reservations would apply, with specific allocations for SC, ST, OBC, and EWS candidates. However, because the vacancies are treated as individual posts, they effectively bypass the reservation policy, resulting in the exclusion of candidates from reserved categories. The lateral entry system, introduced by the government in 2018, aimed to improve transparency and efficiency by addressing the opaque practices of previous administrations. However, the absence of reservation provisions in this system has led to widespread criticism. The Leader of the Opposition, accused the NDA government of violating the Constitution by excluding reservations from these appointments. He argued that this decision undermines social justice, marginalizes the underprivileged, and reduces their representation in the higher levels of bureaucracy. In response, the past practices of the Congress party were highlighted, pointing to the appointments of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as Finance Secretary in 1971 and Montek Ahluwalia as Planning Commission Chairman, both of which were made without transparent procedures. Since the lateral entry system was introduced in 2018, the government has received 6,077 applications, leading to the appointment of 63 individuals to senior positions across various ministries, with approximately 35 of these appointees coming from the private sector. While the goal of these appointments is to infuse expertise and fresh perspectives into the government, the absence of reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) has overshadowed the intended benefits. Addressing the backlog of vacancies relative to these 63 officials will require the government to create new posts specifically for candidates from these underrepresented categories. The introduction of lateral appointments has sparked mixed reactions within the bureaucracy. While it does bring in specialized knowledge and fresh perspectives, it also poses significant risks to the traditional bureaucratic structure. Impact on Bureaucracy: A Mixed Bag: The introduction of lateral appointments has been a double-edged sword. On one hand, it introduces specialized knowledge and new perspectives that can drive innovation and improve efficiency. On the other hand, it challenges the existing bureaucratic framework and raises several concerns. Demoralization of Bureaucrats: Traditional career bureaucrats, who have risen through the ranks through rigorous training and years of service, may feel demoralized when lateral entrants are appointed to senior positions. This could foster a perception that meritocracy is being undermined, creating uncertainty about career progression and potentially lowering morale among long-serving officials. Integration Challenges: Lateral entrants may face difficulties integrating into the established bureaucratic culture, which could lead to friction with traditional bureaucrats. The differing work styles and priorities of lateral entrants and career officials might result in tensions that could undermine collaboration and effectiveness. Potential Conflicts of Interest: Lateral entrants from the private sector may face conflicts of interest, as their decisions could be influenced by previous affiliations. This raises concerns about policy bias and the risk of prioritizing private sector interests over the public good. Ensuring that these officials act impartially and in the best interest of the public sector is a significant challenge. Accountability and Transparency Issues: Unlike career bureaucrats, lateral entrants may not be subject to the same level of public scrutiny and evaluation. This lack of oversight could lead to concerns about transparency in decision-making processes. Additionally, lateral entrants’ limited institutional knowledge could impact the quality of their decisions, particularly in complex policy areas. Impact on Administrative Cohesion: The presence of lateral entrants in senior roles could fragment authority within the bureaucracy, potentially leading to inefficiencies, delays, and a lack of cohesive leadership. This fragmentation could weaken the overall effectiveness of government operations. Positive Takeaways: Despite these challenges, lateral entry into senior government positions offers several notable benefits: Expertise Infusion: Lateral entrants bring specialized knowledge from various sectors, which can enhance the quality of policy-making and help address complex issues that require expert insights. Diverse Perspectives: The introduction of new viewpoints fosters innovative solutions and encourages fresh approaches to governance, which can drive progress and modernization within the government. Increased Efficiency: Professionals from the private sector often emphasize performance and efficiency, which can lead to more effective and results-oriented governance practices. Skill Gap Bridging: Lateral appointments can address deficiencies in key areas such as technology and finance, where specialized skills are crucial for effective governance. Meritocracy Promotion: The focus on skills and expertise over seniority can promote a culture of meritocracy, potentially leading to improved leadership quality and more effective decision-making. Governance Flexibility: By bringing in experienced professionals, the government can quickly adapt to new challenges and evolving circumstances, enhancing its ability to respond to emerging issues. Public-Private Collaboration: Lateral entrants strengthen ties between the government and the private sector, fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas that can benefit both sectors. Conclusion: Overall, while the lateral entry system has its challenges, it also holds the potential to bring about significant positive changes in governance if implemented thoughtfully and inclusively.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 24 August 2024

CONTENTS Passive Euthanasia U.S. Urges India to Halt Dual-Use Exports to Russia India Bans Certain Fixed Dose Combination Medications Vaccine-Derived Polio World’s Second-Largest Diamond in Botswana Gongronema Sasidharanii Passive Euthanasia Context: Recently, the Supreme Court of India denied a petition from an elderly couple seeking “passive euthanasia” for their comatose (deeply unconscious) son, who has been bedridden for 11 years following a fall.  Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of the Article: What is euthanasia, and what is a living will? SC rule in 2018 Changes to Living Will Guidelines in India What is euthanasia, and what is a living will? Euthanasia refers to the practice of an individual deliberately ending their life, oftentimes to get relief from an incurable condition, or intolerable pain and suffering. Euthanasia, which can be administered only by a physician, can be either ‘active’ or ‘passive’. Active euthanasia involves an active intervention to end a person’s life with substances or external force, such as administering a lethal injection. Passive euthanasia refers to withdrawing life support or treatment that is essential to keep a terminally ill person alive. Passive euthanasia was legalised in India by the Supreme Court in 2018, contingent upon the person having a ‘living will’ or a written document that specifies what actions should be taken if the person is unable to make their own medical decisions in the future. In case a person does not have a living will, members of their family can make a plea before the High Court to seek permission for passive euthanasia. SC rule in 2018 The Supreme Court allowed passive euthanasia while recognising the living wills of terminally-ill patients who could go into a permanent vegetative state, and issued guidelines regulating this procedure. A five-judge Constitution Bench headed by then Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra said that the guidelines would be in force until Parliament passed legislation on this. However, this has not happened, and the absence of a law on this subject has rendered the 2018 judgment the last conclusive set of directions on euthanasia. The guidelines pertained to questions such as who would execute the living will, and the process by which approval could be granted by the medical board. “We declare that an adult human being having mental capacity to take an informed decision has right to refuse medical treatment including withdrawal from life-saving devices,” the court said in the 2018 ruling. Changes to Living Will Guidelines in India The 2018 Guidelines A living will was required to be signed by an executor in the presence of two attesting witnesses, countersigned by a Judicial Magistrate of First Class The treating physician was required to constitute a board comprising three expert medical practitioners with at least 20 years of experience to decide whether to carry out the living will or not If the medical board granted permission, the will had to be forwarded to the District Collector for his approval The Collector was to then form another medical board of three expert doctors, including the Chief District Medical Officer Only if this second board agreed with the hospital board’s findings would the decision be forwarded to the JMFC, who would then visit the patient and examine whether to accord approval Changes Made by the Supreme Court Instead of the hospital and Collector forming the two medical boards, both boards will now be formed by the hospital The requirement of 20 years of experience for the doctors has been relaxed to five years The requirement for the Magistrate’s approval has been replaced by an intimation to the Magistrate The medical board must communicate its decision within 48 hours The 2018 guidelines required two witnesses and a signature by the Magistrate; now a notary or gazetted officer can sign the living will in the presence of two witnesses instead of the Magistrate’s countersign In case the medical boards set up by the hospital refuses permission, it will now be open to the kin to approach the High Court which will form a fresh medical team. Different countries, different laws NETHERLANDS, LUXEMBOURG, BELGIUM allow both euthanasia and assisted suicide for anyone who faces “unbearable suffering” that has no chance of improvement. SWITZERLAND bans euthanasia but allows assisted dying in the presence of a doctor or physician. CANADA had announced that euthanasia and assisted dying would be allowed for mentally ill patients by March 2023; however, the decision has been widely criticised, and the move may be delayed. UNITED STATES has different laws in different states. Euthanasia is allowed in some states like Washington, Oregon, and Montana. UNITED KINGDOM considers it illegal and equivalent to manslaughter. -Source: Indian Express U.S. Urges India to Halt Dual-Use Exports to Russia Context: Recent initiatives by the United States involve advising Indian companies and exporters against supplying dual-use technologies to Russia. Such exports, which include chemicals and aeronautic components potentially applicable in defense equipment, could lead to Western sanctions. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Dual Use Goods and Technologies Dual-Use Technology Developments Concerning Russia: Conclusion Dual Use Goods and Technologies Definition and Examples: Dual-use goods are items applicable in both civilian and military settings. Examples include global positioning satellites, missiles, nuclear technologies, and night vision devices. Specific Technologies: Hypersonics: Systems capable of flight at speeds five times greater than the speed of sound, useful for satellite launches and defense applications. Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems: Enhances the integration of various mission systems, bolstering networked command and control. Microelectronics: Fundamental in both civilian tech like smartphones and military equipment. Regulatory Frameworks: Governed by international dual-use export control regimes aiming to prevent misuse while allowing legitimate trade. Global Export Control Regimes: Wassenaar Arrangement (WA): Promotes transparency and responsibility in arms and dual-use goods transfers; India joined as the 42nd member in 2017. Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG): Focuses on curtailing nuclear arms proliferation; India is not a member but follows voluntary non-proliferation practices. Australia Group: Ensures that exports do not contribute to chemical or biological weapons development; India became a member in 2018. Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR): Aims to prevent missile proliferation capable of delivering large payloads; India joined in 2016. Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC): India is a signatory, committing to non-proliferation of chemical and biological weapons. UN and Dual-Use Goods: UN Security Council Resolution 1540: Mandates member nations to regulate exports that could harm global peace or security. Dual-Use Technology Developments Concerning Russia: Sanctions Risk: Indian companies face potential U.S. sanctions under CAATSA for dealings with Russia’s military-industrial sectors. Trade Insights: Indian exports to Russia surged by 40% in 2023, emphasizing the significant role of engineering goods. Global Supply Chains: The U.S. has flagged China as a major supplier of critical items like machine tools and microelectronics to Russia, impacting global defense manufacturing networks. Conclusion: India faces the intricate task of regulating the export of dual-use items, balancing between adhering to international norms and protecting its economic sovereignty. In the delicate geopolitical landscape, particularly concerning Russia, it is vital for India to conform to global regulations to evade sanctions while preserving its strategic autonomy. By enhancing regulatory oversight and raising industry awareness, India can ensure its export practices meet global standards, thus supporting both innovation and national security. -Source: Indian Express India Bans Certain Fixed Dose Combination Medications Context: The Union Health Ministry has prohibited the use of 156 fixed dose combination (FDC) medications, noting a lack of therapeutic justification and potential risks to patient health. These medications, which blend multiple active ingredients, are often used for treating conditions such as tuberculosis and diabetes. However, concerns arise because they may also introduce unnecessary or harmful components to patients. Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of the Article: Ban on 156 Fixed-Dose Combination Drugs Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) Drugs Challenges and Criticisms of FDC Drugs Ban on 156 Fixed-Dose Combination Drugs Overview: The Indian government has banned 156 fixed-dose combination (FDC) medications citing health risks. These include antibiotics, painkillers, and multivitamins. Legislative Action: The Union Health Ministry has issued a gazette notification under Section 26 A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 to halt the production, sale, and distribution of these drugs. Regulatory Insight: The decision is backed by recommendations from the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) and an expert committee, which concluded that the ingredients in these FDCs lack therapeutic justification. Specifics of the Ban: Drugs affected include combinations such as anti-allergics with decongestants, antibiotics with acne creams, and migraine treatments paired with anti-nausea medications. Noteworthy inclusions in the ban are drugs like the mefenamic acid-tranexamic acid combo and sildenafil with vascular relaxants. Historical Context: This action marks the most extensive ban since 2016, when 344 drugs were prohibited—a decision upheld in 2018 for 328 of those drugs. Industry Impact: The ban extends to some drugs that were previously exempt, specifically those introduced before 1988, causing surprise and concern among pharmaceutical manufacturers regarding the sudden removal of these long-standing products from the market. Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) Drugs Definition and Concept: FDC drugs combine two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients into a single dosage form, commonly known as cocktail drugs. The FDA defines a combination product as any product made up of a drug and a device, or a drug and a biological product, or all three combined. Formulation Guidelines: Most medications are typically formulated as single compounds. FDCs are deemed acceptable only if each component’s dosage meets specific population needs and offers clear advantages in efficacy, safety, or compliance over separate administration. Benefits of FDCs: These include a synergistic mechanism of action, enhanced drug tolerability, extended product lifecycle, and potential cost savings. FDCs aim to optimize therapeutic outcomes while reducing the number of pills a patient must take. Challenges and Criticisms of FDC Drugs Increased Risks: FDCs may heighten the likelihood of adverse drug reactions and interactions compared to administering drugs individually. Controversy and Irrational Use: Many FDCs introduced in India lack rational justification, posing unnecessary health risks and increasing the potential for adverse reactions. Economic and Legal Concerns: Irrational FDCs can place a financial burden on consumers. Healthcare providers who recommend these combinations may face legal challenges, especially if the combinations are not recognized in authoritative medical texts or journals. Pharmaceutical Practices: Despite these issues, pharmaceutical companies continue to aggressively market FDCs due to their substantial profit margins. -Source: Indian Express Vaccine-Derived Polio Context: Recently, a child from Meghalaya was diagnosed with vaccine-derived polio (VDP). Relevance: GS II- Health Dimensions of the Article: Vaccine-Derived Polio What is Polio? Polio in India India’s Pulse Polio Programme Steps taken by the Government to maintain polio free status in India Vaccine-Derived Polio Vaccine-derived polio (VDP) occurs when the attenuated (weakened) poliovirus in the oral polio vaccine (OPV) mutates and regains the ability to cause paralysis. VDP is more likely in regions with low immunization coverage, poor sanitation, or among immunocompromised individuals. Over 90% of VDP outbreaks are linked to the Wild Poliovirus Type 2 (WPV2) present in OPV. Vaccine-Associated Paralytic Poliomyelitis (VAPP): This is a rare condition linked to the OPV but is not classified as polio by the Indian government due to its sporadic nature and minimal threat to the broader population. Polio Status in India: The WHO declared India polio-free in 2014, a status not undermined by the presence of VAPP. Types of Poliovirus: WPV1, WPV2, WPV3: These are wild strains of the poliovirus with the same symptoms but distinct genetic makeups. WPV2 and WPV3 have been eradicated as of 2015 and 2019, respectively. Polio Endemic Regions: Wild poliovirus remains endemic in regions like Pakistan and Afghanistan. Polio Vaccines: Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV): Developed by Jonas Salk, this vaccine uses an inactivated virus. Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV): Developed by Albert Sabin, this vaccine contains a live, attenuated virus. What is Polio? The World Health Organization (WHO) defines polio or poliomyelitis as “a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children.” The virus is transmitted by person-to-person, spread mainly through the faecal-oral route or, less frequently, by a common vehicle (e.g., contaminated water or food) and multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and can cause paralysis. Initial symptoms of polio include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. In a small proportion of cases, the disease causes paralysis, which is often permanent. There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented by immunization. There are three individual and immunologically distinct wild poliovirus strains: Wild Poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) Wild Poliovirus type 2 (WPV2) Wild Poliovirus type 3 (WPV3) Symptomatically, all three strains are identical, in that they cause irreversible paralysis or even death. However, there are genetic and virological differences, which make these three strains separate viruses which must each be eradicated individually. Polio in India India received polio-free certification by the WHO in 2014, after three years of zero cases. This achievement has been spurred by the successful pulse polio campaign in which all children were administered polio drops. The last case due to wild poliovirus in the country was detected on 13th January 2011. India’s Pulse Polio Programme With the global initiative of eradication of polio in 1988 following World Health Assembly resolution in 1988, Pulse Polio Immunization programme was launched in India in 1995. Children in the age group of 0-5 years administered polio drops during National and Sub-national immunization rounds (in high-risk areas) every year. The Pulse Polio Initiative was started with an objective of achieving hundred per cent coverage under Oral Polio Vaccine. It aimed to immunize children through improved social mobilization, plan mop-up operations in areas where poliovirus has almost disappeared and maintain high level of morale among the public. Steps taken by the Government to maintain polio free status in India Maintaining community immunity through high quality National and Sub National polio rounds each year. An extremely high level of vigilance through surveillance across the country for any importation or circulation of poliovirus and VDPV is being maintained. All States and Union Territories in the country have developed a Rapid Response Team (RRT) to respond to any polio outbreak in the country. To reduce risk of importation from neighbouring countries, international border vaccination is being provided through continuous vaccination teams (CVT) to all eligible children round the clock. Government of India has issued guidelines for mandatory requirement of polio vaccination to all international travelers before their departure from India to polio affected countries namely:  Afghanistan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Syria and Cameroon. -Source: Indian Express World’s Second-Largest Diamond in Botswana Context: A 2,492-carat raw diamond discovered in Botswana is believed to be the world’s second-largest, behind only the famed Cullinan diamond. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Exploring Recent Developments and Global Dynamics of Diamond Production A recently unearthed diamond has emerged as a close second to the famed 3,106-carat Cullinan Diamond discovered in South Africa over a century ago. Advanced X-ray transmission technology facilitated its extraction, minimizing damage and preserving the integrity of the large stone.  The full assessment of the diamond’s quality and potential is pending. Diamond Characteristics: Formation: Diamonds originate from the Earth’s mantle and reach the surface through volcanic activities, specifically within dykes and sills. Utility: Their exceptional hardness makes them ideal for various applications including jewelry, industrial cutting tools, and polishing. Diamonds in India: Key Locations: Panna belt in Madhya Pradesh Wajrakarur Kimberlite pipe in Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh Krishna River basin gravels in Andhra Pradesh Recent Discoveries: Notable are the new kimberlite fields in Raichur-Gulbarga districts, Karnataka. Processing Hubs: Major cutting and polishing operations are centered in Surat, Navasari, Ahmedabad, and Palampur. -Source: Hindustan Times Gongronema Sasidharanii Context: A plant with smooth stems and small urn-shaped flowers spotted in Idukki district has been identified as an entirely new species of the genus Gongronema. Equally importantly, this is the first time Gongronema has been reported from south India. Relevance: Facts for Prelims New Botanical Discovery: Gongronema Sasidharanii A new plant species found in Pampadum Shola National Park, Kerala. Characterized by smooth stems and small urn-shaped flowers transitioning from creamy white to purplish-green. Marks the first report of the genus Gongronema in South India, expanding its known range beyond northeastern states and parts of North India. Overview of Pampadum Shola National Park Situated in the eastern Southern Western Ghats, Idukki District, Kerala. Covers approximately 12 square kilometers. The name translates to ‘the forest where the snake dances,’ reflecting the park’s dynamic landscape. Features undulating terrain with hillocks, with elevations ranging from 1600 to 2400 meters. Characterized by a misty and cloudy atmosphere year-round, with significant rainfall during the North-East monsoon. Ecological Attributes Vegetation: Comprises a diverse assembly of evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, shola grasslands, and semi-evergreen formations. Flora: Hosts an array of 22 tree species, 74 herb species, and 16 climber species. Fauna: Mammals: Inhabited by tigers, leopards, giant gizzard squirrels, rare flying squirrels, Nilgiri Tahr, and spotted deer. Special Mention: The Nilgiri marten, unique to South India, is a notable inhabitant. Butterflies: Home to approximately 100 butterfly species, highlighting its rich biodiversity. -Source: The Hindu

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 23 August 2024

CONTENTS Prime Minister Employment Generation Program (PMEGP)  Prime Minister Employment Generation Program (PMEGP) Context: KVIC and Department of Posts collaborate to boost PMEGP Implementation across India. Relevance: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: Prime Minister Employment Generation Program (PMEGP) Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Prime Minister Employment Generation Program (PMEGP) The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) the result of the merger of two schemes – Prime Minister’s Rojgar Yojana (PMRY) and The Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP). PMEGP is a credit-linked subsidy scheme which promotes self-employment through setting up of micro-enterprises, where subsidy up to 35% is provided by the Government through Ministry of MSME for loans up to ₹25 lakhs in manufacturing and ₹10 lakhs in the service sector. PMEGP was established for generation of employment opportunities through establishment of micro enterprises in rural as well as urban areas. PMEGP is a central sector scheme administered by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME). At the national level, the Scheme is being implemented by Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), a statutory organization under the administrative control of the Ministry of MSME as the single nodal agency. At the State level, the Scheme will be implemented through State KVIC Directorates, State Khadi and Village Industries Boards (KVIBs) and District Industries Centres (DICs) and banks. Objectives of PMEGP To generate continuous and sustainable employment opportunities in Rural and Urban areas of the country To provide continuous and sustainable employment to a large segment of traditional and prospective artisans, rural and urban unemployed youth in the country through setting up of micro enterprises. To facilitate participation of financial institutions for higher credit flow to micro sector. Eligibility to avail this scheme: Individuals above 18 years of age VIII Std. pass required for project above Rs.10.00 lakhs in manufacturing and above Rs. 5.00 lakhs for Service Sector Self Help Groups and Charitable Trusts Institutions Registered under Societies Registration Act- 1860 Production based Co-operative Societies In addition, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is also implementing the following programmes to provide self employment opportunities in rural and backward areas: Honey Mission: Under this programme, bee boxes with bee colonies, tool kits and training are provided to supplement the income of farmers, adivasis and rural youth as beekeepers. Kumhar Sashaktikaran Programme: Under this programme, rural potters have been provided with training and new energy efficient equipment like Electric Pottery Wheels, Blungers, etc. Agarbatti Industry: Under this initiative, pedal operated machines are being distributed to the artisans for making agarbattis through maximum utilization of bamboo. Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is a statutory body formed in 1957 by the Government of India, under ‘Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act of 1956’. It is an apex organisation under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, with regard to khadi and village industries within India Aim of KVIC is: plan, promote, facilitate, organise and assist in the establishment and development of khadi and village industries in the rural areas in coordination with other agencies engaged in rural development wherever necessary.

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