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  • [27th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: An ideal way to treat India’s corneal blindness problem

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have always focused on ‘Inclusive Healthcare Infrastructure’ (in 2020), ‘Effective Implementation of Healthcare Policies’ (in 2017), ‘Universal Health Coverage Programs’ (in 2015).

    Corneal blindness is a significant public health issue in India, contributing to approximately 15% to 20% of total blindness cases. With an estimated 1.2 million people affected and 20,000 to 25,000 new cases emerging annually, the urgency for effective solutions is paramount.

    Today’s editorial explores the current challenges and proposes a comprehensive approach to address corneal blindness in India. This content can be used to present ‘Public Health challenges’ and to suggest some ‘innovative solutions to address Public Health’ in India.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The Report titled “India’s corneal blindness crisis” published by India Today, highlights the increasing incidence of corneal blindness, particularly in rural areas, and discusses the contributing factors such as limited access to healthcare and a shortage of donor corneas.

    What are the key findings from these reports?

    • Rising Incidence: Corneal blindness is increasing in India, with estimates of 20,000 to 25,000 new cases annually. This condition accounts for approximately 7.5% of total blindness cases in the country, significantly impacting rural populations where access to eye care is limited.
    • Demographics and Causes: The causes of corneal blindness have shifted from infectious diseases like keratitis to eye trauma and complications. Factors such as vitamin A deficiency, poor hygiene, and delayed medical interventions exacerbate the problem, particularly affecting children and working-age adults in rural areas.
    • Healthcare Disparities: Many individuals in rural regions lack access to quality eye care services, leading to irreversible corneal damage before they seek help. There is a notable gap in training and resources for healthcare providers, limiting their ability to effectively manage and treat corneal conditions.
    • Shortage of Donor Corneas: Despite a demand for around 100,000 corneal transplants each year, only about 25,000 to 30,000 corneas are donated annually. This shortage poses a significant barrier to treating those affected by corneal blindness.
    • Policy Considerations: Indian policymakers are considering implementing a ‘presumed consent’ model for organ donation to increase the availability of donor corneas. This approach aims to address the critical shortage and improve access to necessary treatments. 

    What are the primary causes and current statistics of corneal blindness in India?

    • Occupational Hazards: Injuries, particularly in industrial and agricultural settings, are increasingly recognized as a leading cause of corneal blindness. This shift highlights the impact of occupational hazards on eye health.
      • Historically, infectious diseases such as keratitis and trachoma have been significant contributors to corneal blindness. 
      • However, the focus has shifted towards eye trauma and complications as major causes in recent years.
    • Nutritional Deficiencies: Widespread vitamin A deficiency is another critical factor exacerbating the incidence of corneal blindness, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and working-age adults.
    • Healthcare Access Issues: Limited access to quality eye care services, especially in rural areas, leads to delayed treatment for conditions that could be managed effectively if addressed early.
    • Poor Hygiene and Delayed Interventions: Poor hygiene practices and delays in seeking medical help contribute to the worsening of corneal conditions, often resulting in irreversible damage.
    Current Statistics

    • Corneal blindness affects approximately 1.2 million people in India.
    • The country sees an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 new cases of corneal blindness each year.
    • Corneal blindness accounts for around 7.5% of the total blindness burden in India.
    • Children and working-age adults in rural areas are particularly susceptible due to malnutrition and frequent injuries, while elderly individuals face risks from degenerative eye conditions.

    What are the barriers to effective treatment and prevention of corneal blindness?

    • Shortage of Donor Corneas: There is a significant gap between the demand for corneal transplants (estimated at 100,000 annually) and the actual number of donor corneas available (around 25,000 to 30,000). This shortage limits the ability to treat those suffering from corneal blindness effectively.
    • Healthcare Disparities: The distribution of specialized corneal services is uneven across India, with underserved regions lacking adequate facilities for the timely management of corneal diseases.
      • More trained corneal surgeons are needed to meet the annual transplant targets.
      • Although the Cornea Society of India has over 1,000 members, the exact number of surgeons performing keratoplasty regularly is unclear. This gap in training and availability affects surgical outcomes.
    • Data Gaps: Comprehensive data on the prevalence of corneal blindness and the number of individuals who could benefit from transplantation are lacking. Establishing a national registry for corneal blindness and transplants is essential.
    • Preventable Causes: Many cases of corneal blindness are avoidable through preventive measures such as addressing vitamin A deficiency, improving hygiene practices, and providing timely medical interventions for infections and injuries.
    • Public Awareness and Myths: Lack of awareness about eye health and misconceptions surrounding eye donation hinder corneal donation efforts. Myths about eye color change after donation or beliefs that only young people can donate deter potential donors. 

    What comprehensive strategies can be implemented?

    • Public Awareness and Education:Min of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) can lead nationwide awareness campaigns about eye health, corneal blindness, and the importance of eye donation.
      • Local health departments can conduct community outreach programs in schools and villages to educate people about eye care and the significance of corneal donation.
    • Enhancing Healthcare Access: The National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) under the MoHFW, is responsible for improving eye care services across India, including establishing mobile eye care units.
      • District Blindness Control Societies (DBCS) that operate at the district level to implement eye care initiatives, can organize screening camps and facilitate access to surgical treatments for corneal blindness.
    • Training and Capacity Building: The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and Regional Institutes of Ophthalmology (RIOs) can provide specialized training programs for eye surgeons and healthcare workers to enhance their skills in treating corneal conditions.
    • Policy and Research Initiatives: The Ministry of Science and Technology can support research initiatives aimed at understanding the causes of corneal blindness and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions through funding and collaboration with research institutions.
      • For example, the National Eye Bank Association of India can work on establishing guidelines for eye banks, promoting voluntary eye donations, and conducting research on best practices in eye banking

    By implementing these strategies, India can make significant strides towards reducing the prevalence of corneal blindness and improving overall eye health across its population.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/an-ideal-way-to-treat-indias-corneal-blindness-problem/article68913949.ece

  • From a republic to a republic of unequals

    Why in the News?

    On November 26, 2024, India celebrated 75 years of its Constitution, honouring how leaders from different viewpoints worked together in the Constituent Assembly to build a nation that respects the rights and interests of all cultural groups.

    Why Did Constitution Makers Agree to Create a Liberal Political State in India?

    • Emphasis on Liberty: The Constitution-makers embraced liberalism, which prioritizes individual freedom and the belief that citizens should operate without state interference. This was seen as essential for realizing human potential in intellectual, moral, and physical dimensions.
    • Positive State Role: Recognizing the severe social and economic inequalities at Independence, the framers concluded that a purely liberal approach without state intervention would exacerbate these disparities. Thus, they envisioned a state that actively works to reduce inequality through affirmative action and policies designed to uplift marginalized groups.
    • Egalitarian Vision: The Constitution reflects principles of egalitarian liberalism, aiming to create an inclusive society where equal opportunities are available to all. This is evident in the Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), which advocate for reducing inequalities and ensuring fair access to resources.

    How Does the Neoliberal Ideological Order Shadow the Constitutional Vision of Creating an Egalitarian Social Order in India?

    • Concentration of Wealth: The neoliberal agenda has facilitated wealth concentration among a small elite, undermining constitutional provisions intended to prevent such disparities.
      • The report that indicates that by 2022-23, 90% of billionaire wealth was held by upper castes in India is titled “Towards Tax Justice and Wealth Redistribution in India” (2024), prepared by the World Inequality Lab at the Paris School of Economics.
    • Shift in Economic Focus: Since the adoption of neoliberal reforms in the 1990s, there has been a marked shift towards prioritizing private capital investment over welfare state interventions.
    • Rising Inequality: Research indicates that income inequality has surged post-reforms, with the top 1% of earners capturing an increasing share of total income rising from 6% in the 1980s to approximately 22% by 2022-23.

    What Policy Measures Can Be Implemented to Address Inequality Effectively? (Way forward)

    • Strengthening Welfare Policies: Reinvigorating welfare state mechanisms to ensure basic needs are met for all citizens can help bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups. This includes enhancing social security systems and public health initiatives.
    • Affirmative Action: Expanding affirmative action policies can help uplift marginalized communities by ensuring their representation in education, employment, and political spheres.
    • Progressive Taxation: Implementing a more progressive tax system can redistribute wealth more equitably. Higher taxes on the wealthy can be used to fund social programs aimed at reducing poverty and improving access to education and healthcare.
    • Community Resource Management: Encouraging community-based management of resources can empower local populations and ensure equitable distribution of wealth generated from local economies.
    • Regulatory Frameworks: Establishing robust regulatory frameworks that prevent monopolistic practices and ensure fair competition can help mitigate wealth concentration and promote economic equity.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Cyclone Fengal

    Why in the News?

    • A depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and is likely to further intensify into Cyclone Fengal.
      • The system is currently close to an area with higher sea surface temperatures (SST), contributing to its potential intensification into a cyclonic storm.

    Origin of the Name ‘Fengal’

    • The name ‘Fengal’ was proposed by Saudi Arabia and is rooted in Arabic.
    • It reflects a combination of linguistic tradition and cultural identity.

    Cyclone Naming Process:

    • Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean are named by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) panel.
    • This panel includes 13 member countries, such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, among others.
      • Each member country submits a list of potential cyclone names, and these names are used sequentially as cyclones form in the region.
      • This system, in place since 2004, ensures easy identification and effective communication of storms to the public.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the main reason behind this?

    (a) Sea Surface temperature are low

    (b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs

    (c) Coriolis force is too weak

    (d) Absence of land in those regions

  • National Milk Day

    Why in the News?

    National Milk Day on November 26 commemorates the birth anniversary of ‘The Milkman of India’, Dr Verghese Kurien, who was credited with making India self-reliant in milk production.

    About National Milk Day:

    Details • Observed on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien’s contributions to India’s dairy industry and the White Revolution.
    • Celebrates India’s transformation into the world’s largest milk producer.
    Contributions made by Varghese Kurien • Born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
    • Played a key role in establishing Amul (1949) and transforming it into a global dairy brand.
    • Inaugural chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
    • Led Operation Flood, which revolutionized India’s dairy industry and made it self-sufficient in milk production.
    • Received numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963).
    About the White Revolution and Milk Production in India • Initiated in 1970 through Operation Flood to increase milk production and reduce dependence on milk powder imports.
    • Empowered dairy farmers by promoting a cooperative-based model for milk production.
    • By the late 1990s, India became the world’s largest milk producer, surpassing the US.
    • Milk production grew threefold, from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55 million tonnes by 1991-92.
    • Helped build the infrastructure for milk supply chains, processing plants, and storage facilities, making milk more accessible.
    • Significantly improved the income and livelihood of rural farmers, boosting employment and economic development.

    India is ranked 1st in milk production, contributing 24% of global milk production, reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23. 

  • In news: Pennaiyar River

    In news: Pennaiyar River

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to submit the report on the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka Pennaiyar River Water Dispute.

    About Pennaiyar River

    Origin and Geological Composition • Also known as Thenpennai, originates on the eastern slope of Nandi Hills in Karnataka and flows through Tamil Nadu into the Bay of Bengal.
    • Length: 497 km (2nd longest in TN); Catchment area: 3,690 km².
    • 77% of the drainage basin lies in Tamil Nadu.
    • Bounded by the Velikonda, Nagari, Javadu, Shevaroy, Chitteri, and Kalrayan hills of the Eastern Ghats.
    • Lies in the tropical monsoon zone with monsoon (June–December) and non-monsoon (January–May) periods.
    Tributaries • Tributaries include Markandanadhi, Kambainallur, Pambar, Vaniyar, Kallar, Valayar Odai, Pambanar, Aliyar, Musukundanadhi, and Thurinjalar.
    • Supported by monsoonal rains and reservoirs like Kelavarapalli, Krishnagiri, and Sathanur Dams.
    Important Sites along its Basin • Mentioned in Sangam literature for its lush vegetation.
    • Important temples include Penneswaraar Temple, Dakshina Tirupati, Veerateshwarar Temple, and Kabilar Kundru.
    • Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is a key protected area near the river.
    • Used for irrigation in districts such as Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Viluppuram, and Cuddalore.

     

    PYQ:

    [2004] Assertion (A): West- flowing rivers of Peninsular India have no deltas:

    Reason (R): These Rivers do not carry any alluvial sediments.

    1. Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
    2. Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
    3. A is true but R is false
    4. A is false but R is true

  • Feminist ideology in India’s constitutional discourse

    Why in the News?

    Referring to the framers of India’s Constitution solely as “founding fathers” reflects patriarchal bias, overlooking the pivotal contributions of the “founding mothers” who co-authored its progressive vision like UCC (Uniform Civil Code).

    What are the implications of the UCC for women’s rights in a diverse society?

    • Equality Across Personal Laws: The UCC aims to replace personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in India with a common set governing every citizen.
    • Legal Protection Against Patriarchal Religious Law: By establishing a uniform framework, the UCC could provide women with equal rights in matters traditionally dominated by patriarchal interpretations of religious laws.
    • Cultural Resistance: The implementation of the UCC faces resistance due to India’s diverse cultural landscape. Many communities view it as an infringement on their religious freedoms.

    How does feminist constitutionalism challenge traditional interpretations of the Indian Constitution?

    • Challenging Patriarchal Narratives: Feminist constitutionalism critiques traditional interpretations that often marginalise women’s contributions and rights.
      • For example, while the Indian Constitution guarantees equality, its application has frequently been undermined by personal laws that perpetuate women’s subordination.
    • Reinterpreting Constitutional Provisions: Feminist legal theorists argue for a reinterpretation of constitutional provisions to ensure they align with contemporary understandings of gender equality.
    • Historical background of the Constitution: The historical context of the Constitution’s framing reveals that while women like Amrit Kaur and Hansa Mehta fought for equal rights, their efforts were often compromised by the need to secure broader political consensus.
      • For example, Hansa Mehta and Amrit Kaur strongly advocated for the inclusion of the UCC under the Fundamental Rights to ensure gender equality in personal laws.

    5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    What role does historical context play in shaping contemporary gender jurisprudence in India?

    • Legacy of Founding Mothers: The contributions of women in the Constituent Assembly have been historically overlooked, yet their advocacy for fundamental rights laid a foundation for future gender jurisprudence.
    • Impact on Contemporary Legislation: Historical struggles against patriarchal norms inform today’s feminist movements and legal battles. The ongoing discourse around the UCC is rooted in these historical contexts, highlighting both progress made and obstacles remaining in achieving true gender equality.
    • Intersectionality: The intersectional experiences of women from diverse backgrounds during the Constitution’s framing underscore the need for inclusive legal frameworks that address not only gender but also caste, class, and community-specific issues.

    In what ways can feminist legal theory contribute to redefining concepts of justice and equality in India? (Way forward)

    • Redefining Justice and Equality: Feminist legal theory advocates for a broader understanding of justice that encompasses social, economic, and cultural dimensions rather than merely legalistic definitions. This perspective encourages policies that address systemic inequalities faced by women.
    • Promoting Inclusive Dialogue: By emphasizing women’s voices and experiences in legal discourses, feminist theory fosters inclusive dialogue about rights and justice, challenging dominant narratives that often exclude marginalized groups.
    • Encouraging Legislative Reforms: Feminist legal scholars push for legislative reforms that reflect an understanding of gender as a social construct influenced by cultural norms, thereby advocating for laws that protect women’s rights comprehensively across all spheres.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizen a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • [26th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The Constitution still thrives, let it show India the way

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) ‘Constitutional Morality’ is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of ‘Constitutional Morality’ with the help of relevant judicial decisions. (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment:  UPSC Mains have focused on Constitutional Principles (2014 and 2019) with respect to ‘basic features’ and ‘checks and balances’.  

    Before commending the Constitution’s work to the Assembly, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar said that – “however good a Constitution may be, it is sure to turn out bad because those who are called to work it, happen to be a bad lot. However bad a Constitution may be, it may turn out to be good if those who are called to work it, happen to be a good lot.”

    Today’s editorial focuses on the enduring relevance and adaptability of the Indian Constitution. This content can be used whicle inferring ‘Constitutional Background’, ‘Core Principles of the Constitution’ and ‘Balance of Power’ in your Mains Answers.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Today 26th November, marks the 75th anniversary of the adoption by the Constituent Assembly of the draft Constitution of India. The Union government has announced that it intends to commemorate this momentous occasion with a special joint sitting of Parliament.

    Historical Background:

    The Indian Constitution is celebrated for its comprehensive framework that establishes India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The Constitution not only outlines the structure of government but also enshrines fundamental rights that protect individual freedoms and uphold justice.

    Core Principles:
    • Justice: Ensuring fairness in all judicial processes.
    • Liberty: Protecting individual freedoms against state interference.
    • Equality: Guaranteeing equal treatment under the law.
    • Fraternity: Promoting a sense of brotherhood among citizens.

    How does the Constitution adapt to the changing socio-political landscape of India?

    • Amendability: This structure enables the Constitution to evolve without compromising its core principles, through Article 368, ensuring it remains relevant to current societal needs:
      • Simple Majority: Some provisions can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament.
      • Special Majority: Others require a special majority, which includes a two-thirds majority in both Houses.
      • Ratification by States: Certain amendments necessitate ratification by at least half of the state legislatures.
    • Judicial Interpretation: The Supreme Court of India has established several landmark judgments that illustrate this adaptability with changing conditions:
      • Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): This case introduced the “basic structure doctrine,” asserting that while Parliament can amend the Constitution, it cannot alter its fundamental framework.
      • Right to Privacy: The Supreme Court’s recognition of the right to privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21 demonstrates how judicial interpretation can expand constitutional protections in response to modern concerns.
    • Balancing Rigidity and Flexibility: The hybrid nature of the Indian Constitution—combining elements of rigidity with flexibility—ensures that balance is crucial for maintaining democratic governance and protecting fundamental rights against arbitrary alterations.
    • Dynamic Nature of Constitutional Principles: CJI D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized that no single generation holds a monopoly over constitutional interpretation, reflecting a continuous dialogue between generations. This dialogue allows for evolving challenges such as technological advancements and changing social norms.
    • Inclusion of New Realities: The Constitution’s flexibility facilitates the inclusion of new realities and societal demands:
      • Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): These principles guide the state in policy-making and reflect socio-economic changes, allowing for progressive reforms in areas like social justice and economic equity.
      • Gender Equality and Rights: Recent rulings have addressed gender discrimination in religious practices, showcasing how the Constitution adapts to uphold rights against traditional norms.

    What is the significance of constitutional values in promoting justice and equality in India?

    • Justice: The Constitution guarantees justice through its Preamble and Fundamental Rights, ensuring that every citizen can receive fair treatment under the law.
      • For instance, the Joseph Shine v. Union of India (2018) case decriminalized adultery, reinforcing gender equality and emphasizing that both partners in a marriage should be treated equally under the law.
    • Equality Before Law: Article 14 ensures that all individuals are treated equally, prohibiting discrimination.
      • The Navtej Singh Jauhar v. Union of India (2018) case is a landmark ruling that decriminalized consensual same-sex relationships by striking down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, thus affirming the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and promoting social equality.
    • Fraternity and Social Cohesion: The value of fraternity promotes unity and respect among diverse communities. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized the importance of mutual fraternity for maintaining equality in order to raise awareness about constitutional values, highlighting that dignity and respect for all citizens are foundational to national unity.
    • Economic Equality: The Constitution also addresses economic disparities through Directive Principles, aiming for equal rights to livelihood and equal pay for equal work (Article 39). This framework guides government policies towards creating a more equitable society.

    In what ways can citizens actively engage with and uphold constitutional ideals?

    • Participating in Local Governance: The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act empowers citizens to participate in local governance through structures like ward committees. These committees allow residents to voice concerns and influence local decisions.
      • For example, Under JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission), various states established Area Sabhas (neighborhood committees) to facilitate citizen participation in urban planning.
      • In cities like Pune, these committees have successfully engaged citizens in developing city plans, leading to improved infrastructure and services based on community needs.
    • Advocating for Rights and Social Justice: Citizens can advocate for their rights by participating in legal awareness programs that educate them about their constitutional rights.
      • For example initiative like the ‘Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyaan’ focuses on educating rural populations (especially women) about their legal rights, enabling them to seek justice against violations.
    • Engaging in Digital Activism: With the rise of digital media, citizens can use online platforms to raise awareness about constitutional issues and mobilize support for various causes.
      • The #MeToo movement gained significant traction on social media, where women shared their experiences of harassment and sought justice.
    • Participating in Elections and Civic Duties: Active participation in elections is fundamental to democracy. Citizens should not only vote but also engage with candidates and political parties on issues that matter to them.
      • Initiatives like the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program have successfully increased voter turnout, particularly among young voters. 

    Conclusion: “Independence is no doubt a matter of joy. But let us not forget that this independence has thrown on us great responsibilities. By independence, we have lost the excuse of blaming the British for anything going wrong. If hereafter things go wrong, we will have nobody to blame except ourselves.” – Dr. Ambedkar 

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-constitution-still-thrives-let-it-show-india-the-way/article68909557.ece

  • [pib] Cabinet approves One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the “One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) scheme” aims to provide nationwide access to scholarly research articles and journals.

    One Nation One Subscription (ONOS): Everything you need to know

    About • Fully digital and user-friendly Central Sector Scheme approved by the Union Cabinet.
    Aims and Objectives • Provide unified access to scholarly journals and research articles for government HEIs and R&D labs.
    • Support research through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and other government initiatives, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
    • Centralize subscriptions to reduce the financial burden on individual institutions.
    • Align with Viksit Bharat@2047, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and National Research Foundation (NRF).
    Structural Mandate • Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET), an autonomous inter-university center under UGC, will coordinate ONOS and ensure seamless access to research materials.
    • 6,300 institutions under central and state government management, including universities, colleges, and R&D labs.
    • A dedicated digital portal for easy access, designed for wide accessibility.
    Provisions and Eligibility Criteria • All government-run HEIs and R&D institutions are eligible.
    • 13,000 journals from 30 international publishers are available free of cost.
    • ₹6,000 crore allocated for 2025-2027; payments to publishers made centrally by INFLIBNET.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] To obtain full benefits of demographic dividend, what should India do?

    (a) Promoting skill development

    (b) Introducing more social security schemes

    (c) Reducing infant mortality rate

    (d) Privatization of higher education

  • [pib] Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information about the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) in Lok Sabha.

    About Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs):

    About • Set up by the Ministry of Culture to promote and preserve cultural heritage.
    • Established in 1985, with operations beginning in 1986-87.
    • Seven ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur.
    Aims and Objectives • Preserving and promoting regional folk, tribal, and traditional arts.
    • Enhancing and celebrating India’s cultural diversity.
    • Encouraging folk & tribal arts and promoting cultural education.
    • Involving youth in creative cultural programs.
    • Strengthening linkages between different regions of India to showcase their contribution to Indian culture.
    Implementation and Structural Mandate • Government allocated Rs. 10 crore to each ZCC during the 7th and 10th Plans.
    • Free land provided by state governments for ZCC headquarters.
    • Organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) and regional festivals to promote cultural engagement.
    • 42 regional festivals organized annually, 14 RSMs since 2015.
    Significance • Strengthens cultural unity across India and preserves regional cultures.
    • Provides platforms for youth to engage in cultural activities.
    • Promotes national integration through events bringing together artists from different regions.
    • Contributes to economic development through tourism and employment.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

    1. National Development Council

    2. Planning Commission

    3. Zonal Councils

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope

    Why in the News?

    The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.

    About MACE Telescope:

    Details
    Details and Working • World’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, at 4.3 km above sea level.
    • It has a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, the largest in Asia.
    • Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    • Cherenkov radiation is captured using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Cherenkov radiation is the blue glow emitted when charged particles travel faster than light in a medium.
    • Equipped with a high-resolution camera and movable base.
    Aims and Objectives of MACE • Detects high-energy gamma rays (greater than 20 giga-electron volts) emitted by cosmic phenomena.
    • Detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) for dark matter research.
    • Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy by complementing data from other telescopes.
    How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation? • Cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to mutations.
    • Mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders if not repaired.
    • DNA damage from gamma rays can lead to chromosomal aberrations and contribute to carcinogenesis.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:

    1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
    2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
    3. It is buried deep in the ice.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3