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GS Paper: GS3

  • Mumps Vaccine

    Why in the News?

    Tamil Nadu Government has requested the Centre to consider including the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) due to surge in the Mumps cases across the State.

    Tamil Nadu’s UIP currently offers 11 vaccines protecting against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases, including:

    • Tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertussis, hepatitis B, haemophilus influenzae, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles, rubella, rota virus, pneumococcal, and Japanese encephalitis (in 14 endemic districts).
    • The Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine was added to the UIP in April 2017, but mumps is yet to be included.

    About Mumps Disease

    • Mumps is a contagious viral infection caused by the mumps virus, primarily affecting the salivary glands, leading to swelling near the ears (parotitis), fever, headache, and muscle aches.
    • It spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with saliva.
    • While often mild, complications can include orchitis (testicular inflammation), oophoritis (ovarian inflammation), encephalitis, or hearing loss.
    • There is no specific treatment, but supportive care like rest, hydration, and pain management helps.
    • Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the best prevention, offering 78–88% protection.

    Which free immunised diseases are provided under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)?

    • The UIP was launched in 1985 and became part of the National Health Mission in 2005 to provide free vaccination against vaccine-preventable diseases for children and pregnant women.
    • The programme now covers 12 diseases, including tuberculosis, polio, diphtheria, pertussis, measles, rubella, hepatitis B, pneumonia, rotavirus gastroenteritis, and Japanese encephalitis.
    • Key vaccines added over the years include Hepatitis B (2007), Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (2017), Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), and Measles-Rubella Vaccine.
    • The entire cost of vaccines is covered by the Government of India, funded through taxes, with an annual budget of ₹7,234 crore (US$870 million) as of 2022.
    • The programme covers all residents of India, including foreign residents, ensuring nationwide access to life-saving vaccines.
    • 4 new vaccines have been introduced, including the Adult Japanese Encephalitis vaccine and Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, to address emerging health challenges.

    Note:

    Mission Indradhanush is a health initiative launched by the Government of India on 25 December 2014 by Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda. The mission aims to achieve 90% full immunization coverage in India by 2022, targeting vaccination against eight major vaccine-preventable diseases:

    • Diphtheria, Whooping Cough, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Childhood Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, and Meningitis & Pneumonia caused by Haemophilus influenza type B.
      Additionally, it covers Rotavirus Diarrhea and Japanese Encephalitis in specific states and districts.

    The mission targets 201 districts in its first phase, focusing on areas with the highest number of unvaccinated children, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The approach follows similar planning and administration as the Pulse Polio Immunisation (PPI) program.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016]  ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to:

    (a) Immunization of children and pregnant women.

    (b) Construction of smart cities across the country.

    (c) India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space.

    (d) New Educational Policy.

  • India’s First Bio-Bitumen National Highway Inaugurated

    Why in the News?

    India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch was inaugurated on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

    About Bio-Bitumen

    • Bio-bitumen is a bio-based binder derived from renewable, sustainable sources such as: Vegetable oils, Crop stubble, Algae, Lignin (a component of wood), Animal manure.
    • It serves as an alternative to traditional bitumen, which is primarily derived from the distillation of crude oil.
    • The production of bio-bitumen reduces dependence on petroleum and is a step toward sustainable road construction and infrastructure development.

    Significance and Features of Bio-Bitumen:

    • Bio-bitumen reduces the carbon footprint associated with the traditional bitumen production process.
    • By using renewable sources such as lignin (a byproduct of wood), it helps mitigate environmental concerns like stubble burning and contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions, potentially by as much as 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.
    • India, which heavily imports traditional bitumen, can reduce its import dependency by switching to bio-bitumen made from locally available materials.
    • The use of bio-bitumen stimulates bio-refineries, creating opportunities for revenue generation and providing economic benefits to farmers and the bio-refining industry.

    India’s Bitumen Scenario:

    • India imports around 50% of its total annual bitumen requirements, which amounted to 3.21 million tonnes in FY 2023-24.
    • The country produced 5.24 million tonnes of bitumen in the same period.
    • India’s bitumen consumption has been steadily increasing, averaging 7.7 million tonnes annually over the past five years.
    • In 2023-24, India constructed around 12,300 km of national highways, averaging nearly 34 km per day.

     

  • Google’s GenCast AI

    Why in the News?

    Google DeepMind has unveiled its revolutionary GenCast AI model, designed to predict the weather more accurately and farther in advance than current forecasting tools.

    About GenCast:

    What is it?
    • GenCast is an AI-based weather forecasting model developed by Google DeepMind.
    • It uses machine learning techniques for more accurate and long-term predictions compared to traditional models.
    • Unlike traditional numerical weather prediction (NWP) models, GenCast uses an ensemble of AI-generated forecasts, trained on 40 years of reanalysis data.
    • Outperforms traditional tools in predicting extreme weather, tropical cyclones, and wind power production.
    How GenCast Works
    • Trained on 40 years of reanalysis data (1979–2019), blending historical data and modern forecasts.
    • It is powered by a neural network with 41,162 nodes and 240,000 edges, where nodes process data and edges connect them.
    • A diffusion model that refines noisy data in 30 steps to improve forecast accuracy.
    • It generates about 50 forecasts at once, providing probabilistic predictions (e.g., likelihood of rain, not exact amounts).
    • Generates forecasts in 8 minutes using a single TPU v5 unit, much faster than traditional NWP models, which take hours.
    Significance of GenCast
    • Outperforms ECMWF ensemble forecasts on 97.2% of targets, especially for extreme weather predictions.
    • Provides longer-term forecasts for up to 15 days, with spatial resolution of 0.25° x 0.25° and 12-hour intervals.
    • Offers probabilistic forecasts to help better prepare for extreme weather.
    • Faster processing than traditional models, reducing forecast time from hours to minutes.
    • Sustainability and scalability allow the model to be expanded to other areas of weather prediction.
    • Google collaborates with weather agencies to enhance AI forecasting methods while recognizing the importance of traditional models.

  • [23rd December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Pointing the beacon at India’s undersea warfare power

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (UPSC CSE 2022)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Indo-Pacific’ (2020) and ‘Maritime Security’ (2022).

    Since late 2023, the Indian Navy has responded to numerous piracy incidents in the Indian Ocean, solidifying its role as a “first responder” in regional crises (Red Sea). These operations showcase India’s capabilities and reinforce its position as a preferred security partner in the region.

    Today’s Editorial focuses on Maritime security initiatives taken by the government and enhancement opportunities. This content can be used for presenting the main answer while talking on ‘Indo-Pacific issues’ and ‘security challenges in the Indian Ocean’.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    In 2024, the Indian Navy’s Operation ‘Sankalp’ expanded its maritime security efforts from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, enhancing its role as a key security partner by addressing piracy, hijacking, and drone threats while tackling the Hauthis issue.

    • Additionally, the year saw notable advancements in the Navy’s operational preparedness, particularly in undersea warfare.
    What is Operation ‘Sankalp’?

    • The Indian Navy launched Operation ‘Sankalp’ on June 19, 2019, to ensure the safety of Indian ships in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
    • The operation was launched in response to rising tensions in the Gulf of Oman, where two oil tankers were attacked. The Indian Navy deploys ships and aircraft to the area to monitor and protect Indian-flagged vessels
    • The operation has provided safe passage for an average of 16 Indian-flagged ships daily. The operation is coordinated by the Indian Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, Shipping, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Directorate General of Shipping.

    What are the current advancements in India’s submarine capabilities?

    • INS Arighaat: India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, commissioned in August 2024, enhances the country’s nuclear triad by providing a credible deterrence against regional threats, particularly from China, with its capability to launch K-4 missiles over 3,500 kilometres.
      • Equipped with advanced sonar and propulsion systems, INS Arighaat significantly strengthens India’s maritime strike capabilities.
    • Project-77 (P-77): It is an Indian Navy acquisition program to procure nuclear-powered attack submarines.
      • The Cabinet Committee on Security recently cleared the long-pending Project-77 (P-77), giving its final approval to construct two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) at a cost of ₹40,000 crore. The delivery of the first SSN is scheduled for 2036-37.

    What is the relevance of Conventional Submarines?

    • Ongoing Importance: Despite the advancements in nuclear submarines, conventional submarines remain essential for various undersea missions that do not require nuclear capabilities.
    • Project-75: India is set to commission INS Vaghsheer (the 6th Scorpene submarine), as part of its collaboration with France, with plans to order three additional boats to replace older decommissioned ones.
    Advancements in Technology:

    • Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): The effectiveness of conventional submarines has improved due to AIP technology, prompting Project 75(I) to seek AIP-enabled boats from contenders like Spain and Germany.
    • Indigenous Content: Future Scorpene boats are expected to feature 60% indigenous content, while Project 75(I) aims for at least 45% in the first boat, increasing to 60% in subsequent units.
    • Development of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs): India has approved the construction of 100-tonne UUVs at a cost of ₹2,500 crore, enhancing undersea capabilities as a cost-effective strategic option. This initiative reflects India’s focus on niche technologies to address complex maritime threats effectively.Indigenous

    What are the Hurdles in Enhancing Undersea Capabilities?

    • Strategic Importance: The Indian government’s focus on enhancing the Navy’s undersea capabilities alongside surface and aviation elements aims to ensure maritime stability and security, contributing to a balanced blue water force.
    • Budgetary Challenges: Addressing long-standing budgetary issues is essential to align planned acquisitions and modernization efforts, as well as to mitigate excessive delays in project timelines.

    Way Forward:

    • Need for Sustained Funding: Continuous financial support for long-term projects, along with streamlined processes for defining requirements and evaluating tenders, is crucial for meeting the Navy’s strategic and operational needs.
    • Opportunities for Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with strategic allies and friendly maritime nations can enhance India’s maritime capabilities, support its vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), and promote a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

  • What are India’s plans for a quantum satellite?

    Why in the News?

    The GoI Department of Science and Technology has initiated the National Quantum Mission, with plans to launch a quantum satellite within the next 2-3 years to facilitate quantum communications.

    What is the National Quantum Mission?

    • The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a significant initiative launched by the Government of India, specifically under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), aimed at fostering research and development in quantum technologies.
    • Approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023, the mission has a budget of approximately ₹6,000 crore (about $730 million) and is set to be implemented from 2023 to 2031.

    The primary objectives of NQM include:

    • Development of Quantum Technologies: The mission aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits within eight years, enhancing India’s capabilities in quantum computing.
    • Quantum Communication: Establishing a secure quantum communication network that spans 2,000 kilometers, facilitating both domestic and international secure communications.
    • Quantum Sensing and Metrology: Advancing technologies for high-sensitivity magnetometers and atomic clocks, which are critical for precision timing and navigation.
    • Quantum Materials: Focusing on the design and synthesis of quantum materials necessary for the fabrication of advanced quantum devices.

    What is a quantum satellite?

    • A quantum satellite refers to a communications satellite that employs quantum mechanics principles to secure its signals.
    • This technology is pivotal for enhancing cybersecurity in communications, particularly as traditional encryption methods face vulnerabilities from advances in quantum computing.

    Key features of quantum satellites include:

    • Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): This technique allows two parties to securely share encryption keys using quantum properties. If an eavesdropper attempts to intercept the key, any measurement made will alter the state of the photons carrying the information, alerting the communicating parties to the breach.
    • Distance Capability: Unlike optical fibers, which have distance limitations (typically 100-250 km), quantum satellites can facilitate secure communications over much greater distances, making them suitable for national and international networks.

    What are the significance and drawbacks of QKD?

    • Unconditional Security: QKD provides a level of security that is theoretically unbreakable due to the laws of quantum physics. It ensures that any attempt at eavesdropping will be detectable.
    • Resistance to Quantum Threats: As quantum computers evolve, they pose a threat to current encryption methods. QKD offers a new layer of security that is resilient against these emerging threats.

    Drawbacks of QKD: 

    • Authentication Issues: QKD does not inherently authenticate the source of transmissions, which can be problematic.
    • Cost and Infrastructure: Implementing QKD networks can be expensive and complex due to hardware dependencies.
    • Limited Practical Security: The actual security provided by QKD systems may not always match theoretical expectations due to practical engineering challenges.
    • Denial-of-Service Vulnerabilities: Eavesdroppers can disrupt transmissions, potentially denying service to legitimate users.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrate Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): Complement QKD with PQC to address authentication and denial-of-service vulnerabilities, leveraging advanced classical encryption alongside quantum security.
    • Invest in Scalable Infrastructure: Develop cost-effective, upgradeable quantum hardware and standardized protocols to ensure widespread and sustainable adoption of QKD systems.

  • Union Minister Releases India State of Forest Report, 2023

    Why in the News?

    The India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) was released by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.

    What is the Forest Survey of India (FSI)?

    • Forest Survey of India (FSI) is an organisation under the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India Its principal mandate is to conduct survey and assessment of forest resources in the country. ​
    • It started as an organization called Pre- Investment Survey of Forest Resources (PISFR) in 1965 as FAO/UNDP/GOI Project.

    What is India’s State of Forest Report?

    • This report, published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) since 1987, provides a detailed assessment of the country’s forest and tree resources using satellite data and field surveys.
    • The 2023 edition marks the 18th report in this series.

    What are the major highlights of the Report?

    • Total Forest and Tree Cover: India’s total forest and tree cover is 827,357 sq km, representing 25.17% of the country’s geographical area, with 715,343 sq km (21.76%) as forest cover and 112,014 sq km (3.41%) as tree cover.
    • Increase in Forest and Tree Cover: Since 2021, there has been an increase of 1,445 sq km in total forest and tree cover, including a 156 sq km rise in forest cover and a 1,289 sq km increase in tree cover.
    • Top States for Increase: The states with the largest increases in forest and tree cover are Chhattisgarh (+684 sq km), Uttar Pradesh (+559 sq km), Odisha (+559 sq km), and Rajasthan (+394 sq km).
    • States with Largest Forest Areas: The states with the most forest and tree cover are Madhya Pradesh (85,724 sq km), Arunachal Pradesh (67,083 sq km), and Maharashtra (65,383 sq km).
    • Mangrove Cover: India’s total mangrove cover is 4,992 sq km, reflecting ongoing efforts in mangrove conservation.
    • Growing Stock and Bamboo Resources: The total growing stock has increased by 262 million cubic meters, and the bamboo-bearing area has expanded by 5,227 sq km, totaling 154,670 sq km.
    • Carbon Stock and Sequestration: India’s forest carbon stock is estimated at 7,285.5 million tonnes, with an increase of 81.5 million tonnes. The country has exceeded its carbon sequestration targets under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), reaching a carbon stock of 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
    • Technological Advancements: The Forest Survey of India (FSI) has implemented advanced technology for real-time fire alerts and forest fire services, improving forest management and conservation practices.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Conservation Efforts and Management: Enhance forest management practices, focusing on sustainable forest use, biodiversity conservation, and tackling deforestation, while increasing the involvement of local communities in conservation initiatives.
    • Expand Technological Innovations and Monitoring: Continue leveraging advanced technologies for real-time monitoring of forest health, including fire alerts, and expand data-driven approaches to improve forest protection, carbon sequestration, and restoration efforts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • On Kisan Diwas: Why terms of trade have improved more for farm workers than farmers

    Why in the News?

    Crop prices have lagged behind the rising production costs, while agricultural wages have grown faster than inflation over the past two decades.

    What is ‘Terms of Trade’?

    • Terms of Trade (ToT) refers to the relative prices of goods and services that a country exports compared to the prices of goods and services it imports. In the context of agriculture, it specifically relates to the prices received by farmers for their produce versus the prices they pay for inputs (like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment).
    • A favourable ToT means that farmers are receiving higher prices for their products relative to their costs, which enhances their profitability.

    What factors have contributed to the improved terms of trade for farm workers compared to farmers?

    • Wage Growth: Agricultural labourers have experienced significant increases in wages, with their Index of Prices Received (IPR) rising more than threefold from 49.1 to 151.4 between 2004-05 and 2013-14, while their Index of Prices Paid (IPP) increased only modestly from 76.4 to 129.3 during the same period. This resulted in a substantial improvement in their ToT from 64.2% to 117.1%.
    • Stagnation of Farmer Incomes: In contrast, farmers’ IPR rose by only 56.3% from 2013-14 to 2022-23, while their IPP increased by 58.4%. This led to a decline in their ToT from 98.6% to 97.2%, indicating that farmers are facing a cost squeeze as input prices rise faster than the prices they receive for their produce.
    • Economic Diversification: The expansion of employment opportunities outside agriculture has allowed agricultural labourers to seek better-paying jobs in sectors like construction and services, increasing their bargaining power and wage rates.

    How do government policies impact the economic conditions (of farmers versus farm workers)?

    • Employment Schemes: Government initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) have provided rural labourers with guaranteed employment, improving their income stability and negotiating power against employers.
    • Income Support Programs: Various states have implemented income support schemes targeting women, which have further tightened the labour market and increased wage demands among agricultural workers. For example, Mukhya Mantri Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Yojana (MMKSY).
    • Subsidies and Minimum Support Prices: While subsidies on inputs like fertilizers and electricity have provided some relief to farmers, they have not sufficiently offset the rising costs or improved farmers’ ToT significantly, leading to ongoing economic distress among this group.

    What are the broader implications of these changes for the agricultural sector and rural economy?

    • Shift in Economic Power: The improved ToT for agricultural labourers relative to farmers reflects a shift in economic power dynamics within rural areas, potentially leading to greater social mobility for labourers but also highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by farmers.
    • Increased Demand for Labor: As agricultural labourers gain better wages and conditions, there may be a reduction in available labour for farming activities, leading to challenges for farmers who may struggle to find enough workers willing to accept lower wages or demand better working conditions.
    • Social Tensions: The disparities between the economic conditions of farmers and agricultural labourers can lead to social tensions, especially as farmers express dissatisfaction over stagnant incomes while labourers experience wage growth. This situation may exacerbate calls for policy reforms aimed at addressing these inequities.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Farmer Profitability: Introduce policies to ensure fair pricing for crops, reduce input costs through targeted subsidies, and promote crop diversification and value addition to improve farmers’ income and Terms of Trade (ToT).
    • Strengthen Rural Employment: Expand employment opportunities in rural non-farm sectors and align government schemes like MGNREGA with skill development programs to sustain wage growth for agricultural labourers while addressing labour shortages in farming.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the main constraints in the transport and marketing of agricultural produce in India? (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • What are the new Interception Rules and Safeguards?

    Why in the News?

    The Centre has introduced the Telecommunications (Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024, replacing Rule 419A of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951, allowing certain agencies to intercept phone messages under specific conditions.

    About the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951

    • The Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951 are a set of regulations that govern the establishment, maintenance, and operation of telecommunication services in India.
    • These rules were framed under the provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, which is a key legislation that grants the government authority to regulate telecommunication networks in India.
    • The rules cover various aspects of telecommunication, such as:
    1. The process for obtaining telecommunication licenses.
    2. The rights and obligations of telecommunication service providers.
    3. The use of telecommunication networks for government purposes.
    4. Provisions for the lawful interception and monitoring of communication for security, investigation, and public interest reasons (Rule 419A).

    What do the new Telecommunications (Procedures and Safeguards for Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024 state?

    1. Authorization for interception:
      • The Union Home Secretary and the Secretary to the State government in charge of the Home Department can authorize interception orders.
      • An officer not below the rank of Joint Secretary may issue interception orders in unavoidable circumstances (the circumstances are not specified).
    2. Remote areas/operational reasons:
      • In remote areas, or for operational reasons, the head or second senior-most officer of the authorized agency (at central and state levels) can issue orders.
      • These orders must be confirmed by the competent authority within seven days.
      • If not confirmed, the interception ceases and the data cannot be used for any purpose, including court evidence.
    3. Destruction of records:
      • Interception records must be destroyed every six months by the authorized agency and review committee, unless required for functional purposes or court directions.

    Will it override Rule 419A of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951?

    • Yes, Rule 419A is replaced with these new rules, introducing changes in the conditions and procedures for interception.
    • Previously, interception was allowed only in emergent cases.
      • The new rules broaden this to include situations where it is not feasible to obtain prior orders in remote areas or due to operational reasons.
    • Under Rule 419A, there was no limit to the number of IGP-rank officers at the State level who could be authorized for interception.
    • The new rules allow only the head and second senior-most officer of the authorized agency at the state level to issue orders.
      • If the order is not confirmed within seven days, any intercepted messages cannot be used for any purposes, including court evidence.

    PYQ:

    [2021] ‘Right to Privacy’ is protected under which Article of the Constitution of India?

    (a) Article 19
    (b) Article 20
    (c) Article 21
    (d) Article 29

  • What is Starlink?

    Why in the News?

    Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX, denied claims that militants in Manipur (India) were using his Starlink satellite internet technology after the Indian Army and police seized Starlink devices alongside weapons.

    Starlink’s involvement in Terrorism:

    • The Indian Army shared photos showing weapons and what seemed to be Starlink devices seized in Manipur. The equipment was marked with “RPF/PLA,” referring to a militant group.
    • This discovery raised concerns over the potential bypass of geographic restrictions by non-state actors.
    • Musk denied the allegations, explaining that Starlink services were not operational in India, despite the devices being found in the region.

    What is Starlink?

    • Starlink is a satellite internet service developed by SpaceX, designed to provide broadband internet via a network of low Earth orbit satellites.
    • Satellites are launched ensuring low latency and high-speed connections compared to traditional satellite internet.
    • Starlink uses a large constellation of satellites, each equipped with phased array antennas and parabolic antennas to boost capacity.
    • SpaceX has plans to launch 42,000 satellites, which will create a mega-constellation to provide global coverage.

    Does Starlink have regulatory approval in India?

    • Starlink does not yet have regulatory approval in India.
    • India’s regulatory framework restricts the use of foreign satellite communication services, especially for non-commercial purposes.
    • Starlink is however operational in more than 60 countries, including neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan (where it plans to start operations in 2025).

    PYQ:

    [2016] Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology helped India in its socio-economic development?

  • Challenges of Posthumous Assisted Reproduction (PAR)

    Why in the News?

    On October 4, 2024, the Delhi High Court allowed the parents of a deceased man to use his frozen semen for posthumous reproduction. The court cited a similar 2018 case in Germany and noted that the ART Act, 2021, doesn’t specifically address such situations.

    What is Posthumous Assisted Reproduction (PAR)?

    • Posthumous reproduction refers to the use of reproductive material (such as sperm or eggs) from a deceased individual to conceive a child after their death.
    • This can include posthumous sperm retrieval, where sperm is collected from a deceased man (typically through medical procedures shortly after death) for future use in assisted reproductive technologies, like in vitro fertilization (IVF).

    What does the Law says in India?

    • The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, 2021 governs all fertility treatments and artificial insemination procedures.
    • The ART Rules, 2022 specify guidelines for posthumous sperm retrieval, but only in cases where the deceased was married, and the surviving spouse is the one requesting the retrieval.
      1. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) rejected the parents’ request, clarifying that the law does not apply to “post-mortem grandparenthood.”
    • The Surrogacy Regulation Act applies exclusively to married couples or women with medical needs for surrogacy and does not include grandparents as “intending grandparents.”

    Challenges posed by Posthumous Assisted Reproduction (PAR):

    PAR presents several legal, ethical, and social challenges:

    • Legal Issues: There’s a lack of clear laws governing the use of gametes after death, especially regarding consent from the deceased and questions about parentage and inheritance. The absence of specific regulations makes it difficult to establish who holds parental rights.
    • Ethical Concerns: Issues include the morality of using a deceased person’s genetic material, the commodification of human tissue, and concerns about grandparenthood. The emotional and ethical implications for surviving family members also come into play.
    • Social and Psychological Issues: Children born through PAR may face challenges related to knowing their deceased parent, and surviving partners may struggle with grief or guilt. Disputes over the deceased’s wishes can complicate family dynamics.
    • Biological Considerations: The long-term storage of gametes can lead to degradation, affecting the quality of embryos or sperm. Preserving genetic material for extended periods also presents technical challenges.
    • Cultural and Religious Concerns: Different cultures and religions may oppose posthumous reproduction, viewing it as morally or spiritually problematic.
    • Access and Equity: PAR can be expensive and may raise issues of access and commercialization, potentially leading to exploitation or unequal access to these technologies.

    PYQ:

    [2021] In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements: 

    1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of egg.

    2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from mother and not from father.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2