The Union Ministry of Health has re-strategized the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) under the 100-Day TB Elimination Campaign to reduce TB cases and mortality through targeted interventions and a multi-pronged approach.
Menace of TB in India:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India accounted for 26% of global TB cases and deaths in 2023.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted a National TB Prevalence Survey in 20 states, reporting 312 TB cases per lakh population.
The TB incidence rate decreased by 17.7%, from 237 per 100,000 in 2015 to 195 per 100,000 in 2023.
Similarly, TB-related deaths have declined by 21.4%, from 28 per lakh population in 2015 to 22 per lakh population in 2023.
About the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP):
Details
About
Former Name: Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP)
Objective: To eliminate tuberculosis (TB) as a public health issue in India by 2025, as per PM Modi’s 2018 target.
Focus Areas: Early detection, complete treatment, prevention, and strengthening TB care and control services.
Key Components of NTEP:
Universal Drug Susceptibility Testing (UDST): Early detection of drug-resistant TB.
Free Diagnosis and Treatment: Provided for all TB patients across India.
Nikshay: A case-based web-enabled TB information system for monitoring and case management.
Private Sector Engagement: Involving private healthcare providers for standardized care.
Objectives under the National Strategic Plan
100-Day TB Elimination Campaign is an intensified effort launched to fast-track the detection and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) cases across the country.
Eliminate TB as a public health problem by 2025.
Achieve Universal Access to quality TB care.
Prevent the emergence of drug-resistant TB through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Reduce the burden of TB through preventive interventions and awareness campaigns.
Ensure better case management through Nikshay, a case-based monitoring system.
6. Engage with the private sector to ensure standardized and quality TB care.
Steps taken by Govt
Universal Drug Susceptibility Testing (UDST): Early detection of drug-resistant TB.
Free Diagnosis and Treatment: Provided for all TB patients.
Nikshay System: Web-enabled case-based monitoring and management system for TB patients.
Private Sector Engagement: Ensuring standardized TB care by involving private healthcare providers.
National TB Prevalence Survey: Conducted to assess the TB burden in 20 states.
Enhanced Diagnostic Facilities: Including genetic and molecular tests for early detection.
Targeted Interventions for Vulnerable Populations: Focus on high-risk groups, including children and marginalized populations.
INS Tushil, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, is set to be commissioned by the Indian Navy at Kaliningrad, Russia.
AboutINS Tushil:
Details
INS Tushil is a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, part of the Krivak III class (Project 1135.6).
It is the seventh in the series of Krivak III frigates, following the Talwar-class ships (three built at Baltiysky Shipyard in St. Petersburg) and the Teg-class ships (three built at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad).
Development of INS Tushil:
Built at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia.
Contract signed in Oct 2016 between Indian Navy, JSC Rosoboronexport, and Government of India.
Indian team of specialists from the Warship Overseeing Team monitored the construction.
Extensive trials, including Factory Sea Trials, State Committee Trials, and Delivery Acceptance Trials, were conducted in 2024.
Special Features
Speed of over 30 knots
Stealth design with advanced radar-absorbing features.
Equipped with guided missiles, advanced weapon systems, and radars.
Enhanced combat capabilities with a focus on anti-surface and anti-air warfare.
Helicopter deck for operations.
Significance
Boosts India’s naval capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Part of an ongoing effort to modernize the fleet with advanced technologies.
Strengthens India-Russia defence ties.
Will be key in maritime security and regional defense, especially in contested waters.
The Rajya Sabha passed the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024, aimed at boosting domestic petroleum and mineral oil production while encouraging private investment to reduce reliance on imports.
What is the Oilfields Bill?
The Oilfields Bill amends the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act of 1948, which originally governed both oil and mineral operations. The amendment seeks to delineate the regulation of petroleum from mining activities, aligning it more closely with contemporary needs in the oil and gas sector. By doing so, it aims to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports.
What are the major proposed changes?
Definition of Mineral Oils: The Bill expands the definition of “mineral oils” to include naturally occurring hydrocarbons such as crude oil, natural gas, coal bed methane, and shale gas/oil. However, it explicitly excludes coal, lignite, and helium from this definition.
Introduction of Petroleum Leases: The Bill replaces references to “mining leases” with “petroleum leases,” defining these leases as agreements for various activities including exploration and production of mineral oils. Existing mining leases will remain valid under this new framework.
Decriminalization of Offences: The Bill removes criminal penalties for violations of the Oilfields Act, replacing them with financial penalties. For instance, violations that previously could lead to imprisonment will now incur fines up to ₹25 lakh, with additional daily penalties for ongoing violations.
Central Government Powers: The Bill empowers the central government to create rules regarding the granting and regulation of petroleum leases, including aspects like environmental protection and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Encouragement of Private Investment: It includes provisions aimed at attracting private investment into the sector by ensuring stable lease terms and clarifying regulatory frameworks.
What are the criticisms and concerns?
Impact on State Rights: Critics, including members from the DMK party, argue that the Bill undermines state rights regarding taxation on mining activities. They fear that redefining leases could shift regulatory power away from states to the central government, potentially affecting state revenue from royalties.
Legal Challenges: There are concerns that framing petroleum operations under a different legal category could lead to conflicts with existing judicial rulings that affirm state powers over mining taxes. A recent Supreme Court ruling emphasized that states have exclusive rights to tax mining activities.
Environmental Concerns: Opposition members have raised alarms about the potential environmental impacts of allowing greater private sector involvement in petroleum extraction. They advocate for prioritizing public sector companies like ONGC over private entities.
Way forward:
Balanced Federal Approach: Establish a collaborative mechanism between the Centre and states to address concerns over taxation and royalties, ensuring equitable revenue sharing while maintaining clear regulatory roles.
Sustainable Exploration Framework: Mandate robust environmental safeguards and prioritize public sector leadership alongside private investment to balance economic growth with ecological preservation.
Mains PYQ:
Q “In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for Development”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2017)
This year’s edition of the Hornbill Festival has sparked a significant public debate regarding the relaxation of Nagaland’s liquor prohibition law, a subject that has been contentious for over three decades.
What is Hornbill Festival?
The Hornbill Festival is a celebration held every year from 1 – 10 December, in Kohima, Nagaland.
The festival was first held in the year 2000.
It is named after Indian hornbill(Buceros bicornis), the large and colourful forest bird which is displayed in the folklore of most of the state’s tribes.
Festival highlights include the traditional Naga Morungs exhibition and the sale of arts and crafts, food stalls, herbal medicine stalls, flower shows and sales, cultural medley – songs and dances, fashion shows etc.
It is a platform for showcasing the major cultural festivals of 14 recognised Naga tribes, each with its unique traditions and practices.
About Great Indian Hornbill:
IUCN Status: Vulnerable (upgraded from Near Threatened in 2018), CITES: Appendix I
Known as great pied hornbill, it is one of the largest hornbill species.
Can live up to 50 years in captivity.
Primarily fruit-eating, but also preys on small mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Revered in many tribal cultures and rituals due to its size and colour.
Found mainly in India, especially in the Western Ghats and Nilgiris.
Nilgiris North Eastern Range supports some of the highest densities of nesting birds.
Known as ‘forest engineers’ or ‘farmers of the forest’, they play a key role in seed dispersal of tropical trees, indicating the health and balance of their forest ecosystems.
What is the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act 1989?
The NLTP Act is a law enacted by the Government of Nagaland that prohibits the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol in the state.
The Act is one of the most stringent liquor prohibition laws in India, and its core features are as follows:
Key Features of NLTP Act 1989:
Complete Ban on Alcohol: The NLTP Act bans the production, sale, and consumption of all forms of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits. This includes both local (like rice beer) and commercial alcohol.
Exceptions: There are some exceptions under the law, such as alcohol being allowed for medical or scientific purposes and in certain regulated settings, like special licenses for non-local tourists during specific events (e.g., the Hornbill Festival).
Support from Religious Groups: The Act has received strong support from Christian church bodies, which constitute a majority in the state, as they view alcohol consumption as morally unacceptable and harmful to community life.
Role of Alcohol in the Hornbill Festival:
The Hornbill Festival is often seen as an exception to the state’s liquor prohibition.
Thutse (local rice beer) is traditionally consumed during the festival, and according to academic Theyiesinuo Keditsu, the Hornbill Festival is the only time in the year when the state permits the open sale and consumption of alcohol, including Thutse.
PYQ:
[2016] In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?
The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information regarding the National Mission on Libraries (NML) Scheme in Rajya Sabha.
AboutNational Mission on Libraries (NML):
Establishment
Launched in 2012 by the Ministry of Culture to implement National Knowledge Commission (NKC, 2005) recommendations on library and information sciences development.
Objectives
To modernize public libraries, create a digital database, enhance library staff competence, and promote equitable library access, especially in backward areas.
Structural Mandate
Nodal Agency: Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF), Kolkata to oversee and coordinate efforts. (It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture.)
Key Components:
1.National Virtual Library of India (NVLI): Digital resources, census of libraries, and reading habit studies. 2.Model Libraries: 6 Ministry libraries, 35 state central libraries, 35 district libraries, and 629 district libraries with network connectivity. 3.Library Survey: A survey of 5,000 libraries for infrastructure, resources, and usage data. 4.Capacity Building: Training programs for improving skills and knowledge of library staff.
PYQ:
[2015] India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) which has a database containing formatted information on more than 2 million medicinal formulations is proving a powerful weapon in country’s fight against erroneous patents. Discuss the pro and cons of making the database available publicly available under open source licensing.
Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh has become India’s 57th tiger reserve after receiving approval from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
Madhav National Park also received approval to be declared a tiger reserve, which will make it India’s 58th tiger reserve after the official notification.
About Ratapani Tiger Reserve and Madhav Tiger Reserve:
Ratapani TR
Madhav TR
Location
Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, Vindhya Range, 50 km from Bhopal;
824 sq km (318 sq mi) total area.
Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh, near the Madhav National Park;
354.85 sq km (137.3 sq mi) total area.
History
Established as Wildlife Sanctuary in 1976.
Designated as Tiger Reserve on 2 Dec 2024
It was initially a national park.
Designated as Shivpuri National Park in 1956.
Renamed as Madhav National Park in 1959 after Madho Raj Scindia, Maharaja of Gwalior.
Flora and Fauna
Biome: Dry and moist deciduous forests, 55% covered with teak.
Water Bodies: Sindh River, Pitakhal Lake, and seasonal streams.
Why and when did the first Tiger Reserve come up in India?
A tiger reserve is a protected area created under the Project Tiger initiative launched in 1973 by the Indian government to protect tigers and their natural habitats.
A TR is administered by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
These reserves are a part of the conservation efforts to ensure the survival of tigers, preserve biodiversity, and maintain ecological balance.
The first TR in India was the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand, established in 1973. It was also the first national park to be part of the Project Tiger initiative.
Key Features of a Tiger Reserve:
Core Area: A core area is designated as a national park or sanctuary, where human activity is restricted to protect the wildlife.
Buffer Area: Surrounding the core area, the buffer zone consists of a mix of forest and non-forest land, used for controlled human activity while ensuring wildlife conservation. These buffer zones serve as transitional areas for wildlife, providing essential corridors for movement.
PYQ:
[2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?
PYQ Relevance: Q) Reforming the government delivery system through the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme is a progressive step, but it has its limitations too. Comment. (UPSC CSE 2022)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on the ‘cash transfer system for the welfare schemes to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and facilitate reforms (in 2013), and ‘Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme is a progressive step’ (in 2022).
In the Maharashtra and Jharkhand Assembly elections, cash transfer schemes for women became a key focus of political campaigns. In August, the Maharashtra government launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana,’ giving ₹1,500 a month to eligible women in their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. Similarly, the Jharkhand government introduced the ‘Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana,’ offering ₹1,000 a month to eligible women.
Today’s editorial highlights why are cash transfer schemes for women gaining popularity across states? Is this a case of policy learning, or are state governments simply following the trend out of fear of missing out? Are we reaching a stage where there is no alternative approach to welfare?
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Direct cash transfer schemes are not a new idea in politics. According to Axis Bank, 14 states in India already have such programs, reaching nearly one-fifth of the country’s adult women.
What are the reasons for the growing popularity of Cash Transfer Schemes?
Increased Voter Turnout: The turnout of women voters has significantly risen from 47% in 1962 to 66% in 2024, indicating a growing political engagement among women.
This trend is mirrored in state assembly elections, highlighting women’s increasing influence in the electoral process.
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Efficiency: Cash transfer schemes, particularly through DBT, allow governments to bypass traditional bureaucratic structures that often involve middlemen. This method reduces corruption and ensures that funds reach beneficiaries directly, making these schemes more appealing for political leaders who want to demonstrate effective governance.
Immediate Political Gains: Cash transfers provide a quick and visible form of assistance that can be implemented rapidly compared to longer-term infrastructure projects or social services. This immediacy allows governments to showcase their commitment to welfare, thereby enhancing their political capital in the short term.
Standardization of Welfare Approaches: The proliferation of similar cash transfer schemes across states indicates a trend towards standardization in welfare policies, often referred to as “policy learning.”
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): As some states successfully implement these schemes and gain political traction, others may feel compelled to adopt similar measures to avoid losing electoral support.
Addressing Structural Inequalities: Cash transfer schemes are often designed to address gender-specific issues such as female foeticide, child marriage, and educational disparities.
What are the significance of bypassing the Middleman?
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Advantage: DBT allows governments to transfer cash directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, thus minimizing corruption and inefficiencies associated with traditional welfare distribution methods that often involve middlemen.
Reduction of Corruption: By eliminating intermediaries, DBT aims to reduce systemic corruption that has historically plagued welfare schemes in India, ensuring that funds reach intended recipients more effectively.
Personalized Political Relationships: Cash transfers help establish a direct relationship between political leaders and citizens, fostering personal loyalty through financial assistance. This dynamic is referred to as “techno-patrimonial,” where technology enhances individual connections with leaders.
Immediate Impact: Cash transfers provide immediate financial relief to beneficiaries, allowing governments to demonstrate their commitment to welfare without the long-term planning required for infrastructure projects or social services.
What are the key challenges?
Lack of Welfare Innovation: The proliferation of similar cash transfer schemes across various states indicates a stagnation in innovative welfare policies. This trend suggests a reliance on established models rather than exploring diverse approaches to address poverty and welfare needs.
Political Conformity: Even opposition-ruled states are adopting cash transfer schemes similar to those initiated by ruling parties, reflecting a broader acceptance of this welfare strategy without offering substantial alternatives.
Efficiency vs. State Capacity: While cash transfers may enhance efficiency in delivering aid, critics argue that they allow the state to avoid addressing deeper structural issues within its capacity to provide comprehensive welfare services.
Temporary Solutions: Cash transfers are seen as short-term solutions (or “bandages”) for poverty alleviation, potentially nudging citizens toward private alternatives for basic needs while failing to address systemic issues that require more robust state intervention.
Way forward:
Innovate and Diversify Welfare Strategies: Encourage states to develop innovative welfare policies beyond cash transfers, focusing on long-term solutions like skill development, education, and healthcare to address systemic poverty.
Strengthen State Capacity: Invest in enhancing the state’s institutional framework to deliver comprehensive welfare services efficiently, ensuring sustainable development and reducing reliance on temporary solutions.
Despite China’s increasing involvement in financing and infrastructure development, India continues to hold a significant position as one of Nigeria’s key partners in West Africa.
What are the strategic objectives of India in West Africa?
Strengthening Bilateral Relations: India aims to enhance its strategic partnership with Nigeria, which is pivotal as Nigeria is both the largest economy and democracy in Africa. This partnership is expected to extend beyond Nigeria, influencing broader regional dynamics in West Africa.
Focus on Security Cooperation: Given the challenges of terrorism, piracy, and drug trafficking in Nigeria, India seeks to bolster security cooperation. This includes defence collaboration and joint efforts in counterterrorism operations against groups like Boko Haram.
Development Partnerships: India positions itself as a development partner by providing concessional loans and capacity-building programs, demonstrating a commitment to supporting Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.
Promotion of Global South Aspirations: Both India and Nigeria share common goals as leaders of the Global South, aiming to amplify their voices in international forums like the UN Security Council.
How does India plan to enhance its economic ties with West African countries?
Diversifying Trade Relations: India plans to revitalize trade with Nigeria, which has seen a decline recently. Efforts include negotiating trade agreements such as the Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA) and the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to facilitate investment and trade.
Sectoral Collaboration: The focus areas for economic collaboration include defence, energy, technology, health, and education. India’s PM discussions with the President of Nigeria emphasized leveraging India’s expertise in these sectors to foster mutual growth.
Infrastructure Development: India aims to support infrastructure development through concessional loans and technical assistance, building on existing projects that have benefited from Indian investment.
Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: Enhancing cultural ties and promoting exchanges between citizens are also part of India’s strategy to strengthen bilateral relations, fostering goodwill and mutual understanding.
What challenges does India face in its engagement with West Africa?
Geopolitical Competition: India’s engagement is challenged by China’s significant presence in Nigeria, where Chinese companies dominate various sectors including infrastructure and telecommunications. This competition complicates India’s efforts to establish itself as a key partner.
Economic Fluctuations: The decline in trade between India and Nigeria from $14.95 billion in 2021-22 to $7.89 billion in 2023-24 highlights vulnerabilities due to shifting global oil markets and increasing imports from other countries like Russia.
Political Instability: The political landscape in Nigeria can be unpredictable, posing risks for long-term investments and cooperation initiatives that require stability for successful implementation.
Capacity Constraints: While India offers developmental assistance, the effectiveness of these initiatives can be hindered by local capacity constraints in Nigeria, necessitating a tailored approach that considers local needs and capabilities.
Way forward:
Deepen Strategic Collaboration: Strengthen defence and security partnerships, diversify trade, and enhance collaboration in sectors like energy, technology, and health to counter China’s growing influence and foster mutual growth.
Focus on Regional Capacity Building: Expand developmental assistance with tailored initiatives addressing local needs, while supporting Nigeria’s stability through diplomatic engagement and joint Global South aspirations in international forums.
Mains PYQ:
Q Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically Examine. (UPSC IAS/2015)
Six out of the 14 Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, including textiles, solar modules, IT hardware, automobiles, advanced chemical cells (ACC), and speciality steel, are progressing at a relatively slower pace.
What are the primary reasons for the slow implementation of PLI schemes?
Stringent Eligibility Norms: Many industries have reported that the eligibility criteria for participation in PLI schemes are too stringent, which limits the number of companies that can benefit from the incentives.
Initial Setup Challenges: Establishing a domestic manufacturing base from scratch is a monumental task. Industries such as solar modules and advanced chemistry cells (ACC) require substantial time—ranging from one-and-a-half to three years—to set up manufacturing operations, delaying employment generation.
Access to Resources: Companies face difficulties in accessing critical resources, including Chinese machinery and skilled technicians, which can hinder their ability to ramp up production quickly.
Market Dependency: Some sectors remain heavily reliant on imports and have not yet transitioned to a self-sufficient manufacturing model, impacting their growth under the PLI framework.
Slow Disbursement of Funds: The initial years of the scheme saw minimal disbursement of funds, with only a small percentage of the total incentive outlay being paid out in the first two years.
Which sectors are experiencing the most significant slowdowns, and why?
Textiles: This sector is struggling due to high competition and stringent norms that have slowed down participation and growth.
Solar Modules: Despite being a strategic sector for renewable energy, delays in establishing manufacturing capabilities have led to slow progress.
As of June 2024, India’s solar module manufacturing capacity reached 77.2 GW, but the solar cell capacity was only 7.6 GW, leading to supply shortages that delayed projects.
Automobiles: While some companies are making progress, the automobile sector overall is hindered by initial setup challenges and fluctuating market conditions.
Factors such as rising raw material costs and shifts in consumer preferences towards electric vehicles are creating a complex environment for traditional automakers.
Advanced Chemical Cells (ACC): Similar to solar modules, this sector faces long commissioning periods that delay employment outcomes. Because of the lengthy development timelines for manufacturing facilities and the need for substantial investment in technology are contributing to slower growth in this strategic area.
IT Hardware: Although recently upgraded with increased funding, it still lags behind in implementation compared to more successful sectors like mobile manufacturing.
What measures can be taken to enhance the effectiveness of PLI schemes? (Way forward)
Revising Eligibility Criteria: Simplifying the eligibility requirements could encourage more companies, especially smaller firms, to participate in the schemes and benefit from incentives.
Increasing Support for Supply Chains: Establishing robust supply chains is crucial. The government could provide additional support to smaller suppliers who are essential for scaling up production across sectors.
Streamlining Resource Access: Facilitating easier access to necessary machinery and skilled labor can help companies ramp up production more effectively and reduce dependency on imports.
Regular Reviews and Adjustments: Continuous monitoring and adjustments based on sector performance can help identify bottlenecks early and allow for timely interventions.
Encouraging Ancillary Industries: Promoting the establishment of ancillary industries around larger beneficiaries could create additional jobs and enhance local manufacturing capabilities.
Mains PYQ:
Q Can the strategy of regional-resource-based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)
