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  • Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations

    Self-Defence Clause in Global Law

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News?

    India and Pakistan agreed to cease all firing and military actions following precision strikes by India under Operation Sindoor as a Self-Defence against the Pahalgam massacre that killed 26 civilians.

    About Right to Self-Defence under UN Charter:

    • The United Nations Charter generally prohibits the use of force under Article 2(4).
    • Article 51 provides an exception, permitting the use of force in self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member State.
    • The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Nicaragua v. U.S. (1986) interpreted “armed attack” as the gravest form of the use of force.
    • The right of self-defence is subject to two key conditions:
      1. Necessity: The force must be essential to respond to an armed attack.
      2. Proportionality: The response must not exceed what is required to repel the attack.
    • Under Article 51, states must immediately notify the UN Security Council (UNSC) of any action taken in self-defence.
    • In India’s case, the May 7, 2025 missile strikes were described as a “measured response” to the Pahalgam massacre, implying invocation of Article 51, though not explicitly stated.
    • India’s May 8 briefing to 13 of 15 UNSC members was likely in fulfilment of this reporting obligation.

    ‘Unwilling or Unable’ Doctrine:

    • This is an emerging principle in international law, particularly after 9/11.
    • It allows a state to use self-defensive force against non-state actors operating from another state’s territory if that state is:
      • Unwilling or
      • Unable to stop the threat.
    • It was prominently invoked by the US:
      • In 2011 (killing of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan).
      • In 2014 (airstrikes on ISIS in Syria).
    • However, it is criticised by countries like Russia, China, and Mexico for undermining state sovereignty and the UN system.

    India’s Stance:

    • India’s position is unclear but evolving. At a UNSC Arria Formula meeting in Feb 2021, India listed 3 conditions:
    1. The non-state actor has repeatedly attacked the state.
    2. The host state is unwilling to neutralize the threat.
    3. The host state actively supports or sponsors the non-state actor.
    • Legal scholars note it is uncertain if these conditions are cumulative or independent.
    • In response to the Pahalgam attack, India accused Pakistan of inaction and labelled it a safe haven for terrorists.
    • This suggests implicit reliance on the “unwilling or unable” doctrine, though it is not codified in customary international law.
    [UPSC 2005] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Charter of the United Nations Organization was adopted at Geneva, Switzerland in June, 1945;

    2. India was admitted to the United Nations Organization in the year 1945;

    3. The Trusteeship Council of the United Nations Organization was established to manage the affairs of territories detached from Japan and Italy after WWII.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 only* (c) 1 and 3 (d) 3 only

     

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  • Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

    Kerala, MH, TN attain SDGs in MMR, U5MR, NMR

    DOMR | Social Justice | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Why in the News?

    According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) Report 2021, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu have successfully achieved the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR), and Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR).

    About SDGs (related to MMR, U5MR, NMR):

    • Under SDG 3, the goals focus on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.
    • Target 3.1 aims to reduce MMR to below 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030, with no country exceeding 140.
    • Target 3.2 sets the goal to reduce U5MR to 25 or fewer per 1,000 live births and NMR to 12 or fewer per 1,000 live births.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • States meeting MMR target (≤70):
      • Kerala (20), Maharashtra (38), Tamil Nadu (49), plus Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Karnataka.
    • States/UTs meeting U5MR target (≤25):
      • Includes Kerala (8), Tamil Nadu (14), Delhi, Maharashtra, J&K, West Bengal, Karnataka, Punjab, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat.
    • States/UTs meeting NMR target (≤12):
      • Includes Kerala (4), Tamil Nadu (9), Delhi, Maharashtra, J&K, and Himachal Pradesh.
    • National improvements:
      • MMR dropped from 130 (2014–16) to 93 (2019–21).
      • U5MR declined from 45 (2014) to 31 (2021).
      • NMR dropped from 26 (2014) to 19 (2021).
      • IMR declined from 39 (2014) to 27 (2021).
      • Sex Ratio at Birth improved from 899 to 913 (2014–2021).
      • Total Fertility Rate reached replacement level of 2.0 in 2021.
    • Compared globally (1990–2023), India achieved an 86% reduction in MMR (vs 48% globally), 78% in U5MR (vs 61%), 70% in NMR (vs 54%), and 71% in IMR (vs 58%).
    [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojna:

    1. It is safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments.

    2. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women.

    3. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women.

    4. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age.

    How many of the statements given above are correct?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) Only three (d) All four

     

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    Gold’s Cosmic Origins from Magnetar Flares

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    A new study by Columbia University, suggests that the universe may have an alternate mechanism for producing gold — not just in neutron star collisions, as previously believed, but also in magnetar flares.

    Gold's Cosmic Origins from Magnetar Flares

    What are Magnetars?

    • Magnetars are a rare type of neutron star with immensely strong magnetic fields, among the most powerful in the universe.
    • They are formed when a massive star collapses during a supernova, leaving a highly dense stellar core.
    • Due to magnetic instability, magnetars sometimes release intense flares of X-rays and gamma rays.
    • These flares can be millions of times stronger than typical solar flares.
    • A magnetar’s magnetic field is estimated to be about a thousand times stronger than that of ordinary neutron stars.

    r-Process in a Magnetar Flare:

    • The r-process (rapid neutron-capture process) forms heavy elements like gold, platinum, and uranium by rapidly attaching neutrons to atomic nuclei.
    • It was earlier believed to occur mainly in neutron star mergers.
    • In a 2024 study, scientists analysed a 2004 magnetar flare followed by delayed gamma-ray emissions, recorded by NASA’s Compton Gamma Ray Observatory.
    • The radiation patterns matched those of radioactive decay from r-process elements, suggesting neutron-rich nuclei were produced.
    • Around 1.9 septillion kilograms of matter was ejected at near-light speeds, marking the first direct evidence of r-process nucleosynthesis in a magnetar flare.

    Implications for Gold Formation:

    • The study shows that magnetar flares may also produce gold and other heavy elements, not just neutron star collisions.
    • This implies such elements could have formed earlier in the universe than previously believed.
    • The findings broaden our understanding of the origins of chemical elements in space.
    • It confirms that multiple astrophysical events contribute to the formation of heavy elements.
    • It also offers a new perspective on cosmic gamma-ray bursts and ancient stellar compositions.
    [UPSC 2012] Consider the following is/are cited by the scientists as evidence/evidences for the continued expansion of the universe?

    1. Detection of microwaves in space

    2. Observation of redshift phenomenon in space

    3. Movement of asteroids in space

    4. Occurrence of supernova explosions in space

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

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  • Genetically Modified (GM) crops – cotton, mustards, etc.

    Scientists create first ‘Pangenome’ of Asian Rice

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    Chinese researchers has developed a first-of-its-kind rice pangenome by integrating genetic data from 144 wild and cultivated rice varieties from Asia (similar to the Human Genome Project).

    About the Rice Pangenome:

    • A pangenome includes both the core genes shared by all members of a species and the unique genes found in specific varieties, offering a complete view of genetic diversity.
    • The rice pangenome was built using data from 144 wild and cultivated rice varieties across Asia, making it the first comprehensive genomic resource for rice.
    • Researchers led the project from the Chinese Academy of Sciences to explore rice evolution and domestication.
    • Researchers used PacBio HiFi sequencing and advanced computational tools to detect variations, uncovering 3.87 billion base pairs of genetic material previously missing from the standard rice genome.

    Key Findings:

    • The study identified 69,531 genes, including 28,907 core genes common to all varieties and 13,728 genes unique to wild rice.
    • About 20% of all genes were exclusive to wild rice, offering potential for trait improvement in cultivated varieties.
    • The study confirmed that all Asian cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) originated from Or-IIIa, a subgroup of Oryza rufipogon.
    • Japonica rice was first domesticated in China, while indica rice arose later via hybridization as japonica spread across Asia.
    • Wild-specific genes were linked to environmental adaptation, phenotypic flexibility, and regenerative traits, offering insights for future crop resilience.
    • Bridging the genetic gap between wild and cultivated rice could lead to climate-resilient and high-yield varieties.

    India’s Contribution:

    • Rice is India’s staple food and the main monsoon crop, grown from June to September.
    • In 2024–25, India produced a record 220 million tonnes of rice over 51,000 hectares, with an average yield of 4.2 tonnes per hectare.
    • The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed two genome-edited rice varieties — Samba Mahsuri and MTU 1010 — known for higher yields and drought resistance; these are currently under testing.
    [UPSC 2001] Assertion (A): Scientists can cut apart and paste together DNA molecules at will, regardless of the source of the molecules. Reason (R): DNA fragments can be manipulated using restriction endonucleases and DNA ligases.

    Options: (a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A * (b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT a correct explanation of A (c) A is true but R is false (d) A is fasle but R is true

     

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  • Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

    Delhi Morphological Ridge

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court notified civic officials of allegedly violating its 1996 directive in the M.C. Mehta vs Union of India case (1996) by approving a private housing project in Delhi’s ecologically sensitive Morphological Ridge area.

    Delhi Morphological Ridge

    About Delhi Morphological Ridge:

    • The Delhi Ridge is the northern extension of the ancient Aravalli Range, stretching approximately 35 km from Tughlaqabad to Wazirabad, along the Yamuna River.
    • It is composed mainly of quartzite rock, is over 1.5 billion years old, and significantly older than the Himalayas.
    • It functions as Delhi’s green lungs, aiding in carbon sequestration, temperature regulation, and air pollution reduction.
    • It acts as a natural barrier against desert winds from Rajasthan and supports rich biodiversity, making Delhi one of the world’s most bird-rich capitals.
    • It is divided into four zones: Northern Ridge, Central Ridge, South-Central Ridge, and Southern Ridge.
    • Key conservation areas include the Northern Ridge Biodiversity Park and the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Land Use Regulation in the Ridge:

    • Although the area shares ecological features with the Delhi Ridge, it is NOT officially notified as forest land, but it enjoys judicial protection.
    • A 1966 directive prohibits any NON-forest use or encroachment without court approval.
    • Any change in land use must be cleared by the Ridge Management Board (RMB) and the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC).
    • The area is mapped using data from the Delhi Forest Department and the 2006 Seismic Zonation Map.
    • Formal notification as a Reserved Forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, is pending due to the absence of ground-truthing.
    • In revenue records, it is often marked as “gair mumkin pahad”, meaning uncultivable rocky hill.
    • The terrain is ecologically fragile, with shallow soil and rocky outcrops, making it unsuitable for construction.
    [UPSC 2001] The approximate age of the Aravalli range is-

    Options: (a) 370 million years (b) 470 million years (c) 570 million years (d) 670 million years

     

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  • Indian Missile Program Updates

    BrahMos: the ‘Fire and Forget’ Stealthy Cruise Missile 

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Indigenization Of Technology

    brahmos

    Why in the News?

    The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has garnered global attention as it was reportedly used for the first time in a combat scenario during Operation Sindoor.

    About the BrahMos Missile:

    • BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia through BrahMos Aerospace.
    • The name is derived from the Brahmaputra River (India) and the Moskva River (Russia).
    • It is one of the world’s fastest cruise missiles, reaching speeds up to Mach 3.
    • It was first successfully tested on June 12, 2001, from Chandipur, Odisha.
    • It is a ‘fire and forget’ missile, requiring no further guidance after launch.
    • It can be launched from land, sea, air, and submarine platforms.
    • It has been inducted into the Indian Navy (2005), Army (2007), and Air Force (2017).
    • Key Features:
      • Classified as a stand-off weapon, it can be launched from a safe distance, avoiding enemy defences.
      • The original range was 290 km, now extended to 350–400 km, with future variants targeting 800 km and hypersonic speeds (Mach 5).
      • It offers high accuracy, extended seeker range, and 9 times more kinetic energy than subsonic missiles.
      • It operates in all weather conditions, day or night, and strikes both land and sea targets with precision.

    Anatomy of the BrahMos Missile:

    • BrahMos is a two-stage missile with advanced propulsion and stealth capabilities.
    • The first stage is a solid-propellant booster that accelerates the missile to supersonic speed.
    • The second stage uses a liquid-fuelled ramjet engine to sustain high-speed cruise up to Mach 3.
    • The ramjet is an air-breathing engine that combines liquid fuel with incoming air for efficient thrust.
    • It features stealth technologies, such as low radar cross-section and special materials.
    • The missile can cruise at up to 15 km altitude and descend to 10 metres in the terminal phase for pinpoint accuracy.
    • It supports multiple launch platforms, including mobile launchers, naval ships, Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft, and submarines.

    Key Weapons and Systems used by India in Operation SINDOOR:

    Type Name Features & Role in Operation SINDOOR
    Air-Launched Missile SCALP (Storm Shadow) Long-range missile launched from Rafale jets; used for deep strikes on terror camps with minimal collateral damage.
    Precision-Guided Bomb HAMMER Modular weapon with 15–70 km range; delivered from aircraft to hit mid-range targets with high accuracy.
    Surface-to-Air Missile Akash Indigenous system that can engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously; intercepted enemy drones and missiles.
    Air Defence System SAMAR Rapid-response missile system for low-flying threats like UAVs and drones; bolstered India’s layered air defence.
    Anti-Drone System D-4 (Detect, Deter, Destroy) Uses radar, jammers, and laser weapons to disable or destroy hostile drones and UCAVs.
    Loitering Munition SkyStriker Kamikaze drone that hovers over targets before striking; used for precision attacks on enemy assets.
    Satellite Systems Cartosat, RISAT, EOS Series Provided real-time surveillance and intelligence for target tracking and mission planning.
    Navigation System NavIC India’s satellite-based navigation system; enabled sub-metre precision for missile and drone targeting.
    Anti-Aircraft Gun Upgraded L-70 (Bofors) Equipped with radar and auto-tracking; used to shoot down low-flying drones in conflict zones.

     

    [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:

    1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.

    2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

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  • New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

    World’s Longest Banana Infructescence Found in Andaman

    Species | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    World’s Longest Banana Infructescence Found in Andaman

    Why in the News?

    A species of wild banana, Musa indandamanensis, endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has set a world record with an infructescence (fruit bunch axis) measuring 4.2 metres — the longest ever recorded among banana species globally.

    About the Musa indandamanensis:

    • Musa indandamanensis is a wild banana species that is endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
    • It was first discovered in 2012 near the Krishna Nala reserve forest in Little Andaman and officially described in 2014.
    • The species was later rediscovered in Campbell Bay, located in the Nicobar Islands.
    • The discovery was led by Dr. Lal Ji Singh, Head of the Botanical Survey of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre.
    • Due to its limited natural range and habitat vulnerability, it is listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN.

    Notable Features:

    • The species holds the world record for the longest banana infructescence, measuring 4.2 metres.
    • The plant typically reaches a height of about 11 metres, with stem girth varying by location: under 100 cm in Little Andaman and around 110 cm in Campbell Bay.
    • It bears golden yellow to orange fruits, which ripen into a golden-orange pulp containing many irregular-shaped seeds.
    • The plant thrives in moist tropical forests, typically near waterfalls and streams.
    • It is considered a valuable genetic resource for developing drought-resistant, disease-tolerant, and high-yielding banana varieties.
    • Specimens are showcased in botanical institutions such as the Indian Museum in Kolkata and the Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre.
    • For ex-situ conservation, saplings have been planted in botanical gardens in Howrah, Prayagraj, and Port Blair.
    [UPSC 2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

    Options: (a) Andaman Islands* (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast

     

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  • Hunger and Nutrition Issues – GHI, GNI, etc.

    [10th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Sprouting sustainable, nutrition-sensitive food systems 

    op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Poverty & Development Issues

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] Explain the role of millets for ensuring health and nutritional security in India.

    Linkage: Nutrition-sensitive agriculture and promoting the cultivation of climate-resilient, biofortified crops, and enhancing crop diversity. Millets are a prime example of such crops that contribute to health and nutritional security, making this question highly relevant to the article’s proposed solutions for improving dietary quality and nutritional outcomes.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  The global food system is under pressure due to limited resources and climate change, while still needing to make food accessible and affordable. Even though India is a top producer of milk, fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock, it still faces serious nutrition problems. These include both undernutrition and rising obesity, along with a lack of essential vitamins and minerals. Such issues put India’s future workforce and economic strength at risk. With a low rank of 105 out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index 2024, India’s food insecurity needs immediate attention.

    Today’s editorial discusses the problem of malnutrition in India. This topic is useful for GS Paper 2 (which covers the role of the welfare state and government schemes to fight malnutrition) and GS Paper 3 (which looks at India’s food system).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    India’s fight against nutrition problems should lead to a change where nutrition is included as a key part of farming and economic planning.

    What is the situation of India in malnutrition? 

    • Alarming Dual Burden of Malnutrition: NFHS-5 data highlights India’s pressing nutrition crisis — with high rates of stunting (35.5%), underweight (32.1%), wasting (19.3%) among children, and rising obesity in adults (24% women, 22.9% men), reflecting a dual burden of undernutrition and overnutrition that demands urgent policy attention.
    • Hidden Hunger and Women’s Health: The prevalence of anaemia in 57% of women of reproductive age signals widespread micronutrient deficiencies, indicating that calorie sufficiency alone is not enough — interventions must ensure access to diverse, nutrient-rich foods.

    What are the key causes of malnutrition in India despite being a major food producer?

    • Inequitable Access: Despite high food production, millions cannot afford or access diverse and nutritious diets. Eg: As per FAO (2022), 55.6% of Indians are unable to afford a healthy diet, highlighting widespread economic and geographic disparities.
    • Hidden Hunger (Micronutrient Deficiency): Diets often lack essential vitamins and minerals, affecting physical and cognitive development. Eg: 57% of Indian women of reproductive age are anaemic, despite surplus grain availability.
    • Food System Inefficiencies: Overreliance on staples, poor storage, and inadequate supply chains limit access to nutrient-rich food. Eg: Focus on rice and wheat in PDS sidelines coarse grains and pulses, leading to reduced dietary diversity.
    • Double Burden of Malnutrition: India faces both undernutrition in children and growing rates of overweight/obesity in adults. Eg: 35.5% of children under 5 are stunted, while 24% of women are overweight, showing nutrition imbalance.
    • Climate Vulnerability: Extreme weather events and resource stress reduce crop yield and diversity, harming food security. Eg: Erratic monsoons and heatwaves reduce the productivity of small-scale farmers, limiting supply of fresh produce.

    How can nutrition-sensitive agriculture contribute to addressing India’s food security issues?

    • Crop Diversification: Promotes the cultivation of a variety of nutrient-rich crops to improve dietary diversity. Eg: Encouraging farmers to grow millets, pulses, and vegetables alongside cereals enhances household nutrition and resilience.
    • Biofortification: Increases the nutritional content of staple crops to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Eg: Use of iron-rich pearl millet and zinc-enhanced wheat has shown success in improving child and maternal health.
    • Climate-Resilient Crops: Supports food security under changing climate conditions by using crops that can withstand droughts and floods. Eg: Drought-tolerant varieties of sorghum and finger millet help ensure food supply in arid and semi-arid regions.
    • Improved Post-Harvest Management: Reduces food loss and maintains nutrient quality through better storage and transportation. Eg: Solar dryers and community storage units help preserve perishable crops like fruits and vegetables in rural areas.
    • Farmer-Nutrition Linkages: Connects local farmers with schools and public schemes to supply nutritious food, boosting rural incomes and food access. Eg: The Nutri-Garden model in schools sources biofortified grains and vegetables from nearby farms, improving child nutrition.

    Who should play a key role in transforming India’s food systems for better nutrition and sustainability?

    • Government: Must align agricultural, health, and economic policies with nutrition and sustainability goals. Eg: The government can enhance the Public Distribution System (PDS) by including nutrient-rich millets and local vegetables.
    • Private Sector: Should innovate and invest in nutrition-focused food products, fortification, and sustainable practices. Eg: Food companies using clear nutrition labels and QR codes to promote awareness and adopting plant-based alternatives.
    • Community and Civil Society: Essential in driving grassroots efforts, promoting awareness, and implementing local nutrition initiatives. Eg: Nutrition-Sensitive Community Planning (NSCP) empowers villages to improve diet through local food, water, and health solutions.

    Where can community-led nutrition interventions like the Nutrition-Sensitive Community Planning (NSCP) model be most effective in India?

    • Rural Areas with Poor Nutrition Indicators: Effective where malnutrition, stunting, and anaemia are high among children and women. Eg: In parts of Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, NSCP can address undernutrition by linking local farming to nutritious diets.
    • Tribal and Remote Regions: Helps revive indigenous food systems and addresses deep-rooted nutrition gaps. Eg: In Odisha’s tribal districts, NSCP can promote traditional millets and forest foods as part of daily meals.
    • Climate-Vulnerable Zones: Strengthens resilience through climate-adaptive farming and diversified diets. Eg: In Bundelkhand (UP-MP), NSCP can integrate drought-tolerant crops and water-saving practices.
    • Regions with High Migration Rates: Targets nutritional needs of women and children left behind in migrant families. Eg: In eastern Uttar Pradesh, NSCP can ensure food security through community gardens and village nutrition hubs.
    • Urban Slums and Peri-Urban Settlements: Addresses the dual burden of undernutrition and rising obesity in low-income households. Eg: In Delhi’s informal settlements, NSCP can promote rooftop kitchen gardens and access to local fresh food markets.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    • Universal Fortified Rice & Diversified Safety Nets: India has rolled out fortified rice (iron, folic acid + B12) across every food-security scheme—PDS, PM-GKAY, ICDS, Mid-Day Meal/PM POSHAN—to cut anaemia and hidden hunger.  
    • Mission Poshan 2.0 (Saksham Anganwadi + Nutrition Mission): Combines ICDS, Poshan Abhiyaan and allied schemes into one platform that uses real-time growth monitoring, fortified take-home rations and community “Poshan Maah” drives to reduce stunting, wasting and anaemia. Eg: Mission Poshan 2.0 uses a three-pronged strategy—convergence, technology and social behaviour change—through 1.4 million Anganwadis.
    • Millet Promotion & Climate-Resilient Farming: The government declared 2023 the International Year of Millets, rebranded them as “Nutri-Cereals,” and launched programmes to expand climate-smart, nutrient-dense crops.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Strengthen coordination between government, private sector, and civil society to scale up nutrition-sensitive initiatives and ensure equitable access to nutritious food for all segments of society.
    • Promote Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices: Encourage the adoption of climate-smart farming techniques and crop diversification to ensure food security in the face of climate challenges while improving nutritional outcomes.

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  • Coronavirus – Health and Governance Issues

    Greater regularity: On the Nipah virus

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Why in the News?

    A 42-year-old woman in Kerala tested positive for the Nipah virus on May 8, marking the third case reported from Malappuram district in the past two years.

    Why is studying the genetic evolution of Nipah in humans and bats important?

    • Understanding Virulence and Transmission Potential: Genetic mutations can influence how severe the disease is and whether it can spread between humans. Eg: The 2018 outbreak in Kerala showed a high fatality rate (17 out of 18 cases), partly attributed to a variant with small but significant differences from the Bangladesh strain.
    • Detecting New Strains and Preventing Outbreaks: Regular monitoring of genetic changes in the virus found in bats (natural hosts) helps identify emerging strains before they jump to humans. Eg: Repeated spillovers in Kerala suggest evolving viral dynamics in bat populations.
    • Informing Vaccine and Diagnostic Development: Understanding the virus’s genetic structure enables the development of effective diagnostic tools, therapies, and future vaccines. Eg: Without updated genomic data, public health responses may lag behind fast-evolving variants.

    Why is it important to share the genetic sequences of the Nipah virus in public databases without delay?

    • Enables Global Scientific Collaboration and Rapid Response: Sharing genetic sequences in public databases allows scientists worldwide to study the virus, track mutations, and develop diagnostic tools, treatments, or vaccines more efficiently. Eg: Rapid sharing of SARS-CoV-2 sequences in 2020 helped in the swift development of COVID-19 vaccines.
    • Monitors Viral Evolution and Assesses Public Health Risk: Timely sequence sharing helps detect genetic changes that may enhance the virus’s transmissibility or virulence, allowing health authorities to prepare accordingly. Eg: Genetic analysis of the 2018 Nipah strain in Kerala showed variation from the Bangladesh strain, helping researchers understand its unique impact.

    How did the 2018/2023 outbreaks differ from the recent case in symptoms and transmission?

    Aspect 2018/2023 Outbreaks 2024 Case
    Clinical Presentation Type Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) Relatively milder, with fewer complications
    Disease Severity More severe, with multisystem involvement Relatively milder, with fewer complications
    Human-to-Human Transmission Yes, leading to outbreaks No human-to-human transmission observed yet
    Viral Load and Spread Potential High viral load in throat swabs, indicating spread Lower viral load in AES patients, reducing spread
    Outcome and Fatality High fatality rate (17 deaths from 18 cases in 2018) No deaths reported, with early detection and isolation

     

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • Rapid Response and Surveillance Systems: The government deploys central teams including epidemiologists and virologists for outbreak investigation and containment. Eg: In the 2023 Kerala outbreak, a Central team was sent immediately to assist the State with contact tracing and containment measures.
    • Strengthening Laboratory Diagnostics and Research: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, have developed diagnostic kits and conduct genomic sequencing of the virus. Eg: NIV Pune confirmed the Nipah virus infection in the May 2024 case and also conducted genome analysis during previous outbreaks.
    • Public Health Awareness and Isolation Protocols: Health departments issue guidelines on infection control, isolation of suspected cases, and public advisories to avoid contact with bats and consume only washed fruits. Eg: During the 2018 and 2023 outbreaks, Kerala implemented isolation wards, restricted public gatherings, and sensitised healthcare workers and the public.

    Way forward: 

    • Establish Permanent Nipah Surveillance Units in High-Risk Areas: Set up dedicated monitoring and response units in regions like Kerala for continuous bat sampling, genomic sequencing, and early detection.
    • Promote Transparent Data Sharing and Regional Collaboration: Ensure timely release of viral genomic data in public databases and collaborate with neighbouring countries for joint research and response planning.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.

    Linkage: The importance of timely detection and isolation of Nipah cases and mentions different clinical presentations (AES and ARDS), implying the need for diagnostic and clinical management capacity. A robust public healthcare system, particularly at the grassroots level, is essential for effective surveillance, early detection, diagnosis, isolation, and management of infectious disease outbreaks like Nipah, making this question highly relevant.

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  • Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

    It is time to protect India’s workers from the heat

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    Millions of informal workers in Indian cities are still suffering the most because Heat Action Plans are poorly designed.

    What are the key gaps in current Heat Action Plans for informal workers?

    • Lack of Specific Focus on Informal Workers: Most Heat Action Plans do not explicitly identify or address the unique needs of informal workers. Eg: NDMA’s 2019 heatwave guidelines mention “outdoor workers” broadly, without specific measures for vendors, construction workers, or waste pickers.
    • Absence of Occupational Safety Protocols: There are no provisions for safe working hours, rest breaks, hydration, or emergency response for heat stress. Eg: State-level HAPs often do not mandate rest periods or shaded areas for those working under the sun, unlike Odisha which mandates halts in outdoor work during peak heat hours.
    • Short-term and Crisis-oriented Planning: Most HAPs are activated only during summer months and lack long-term strategies to tackle recurring heatwaves. Eg: City-level HAPs like those in Delhi focus on public awareness during heat alerts but don’t invest in permanent cooling infrastructure.
    • Inadequate Coordination Between Departments: Ministries and departments (Labour, Urban Affairs, Health) work in silos, leading to disjointed efforts. Eg: Urban development plans rarely consult labour departments, leaving out worker welfare components like cooling shelters at work sites.
    • No Budgetary Provision or Worker Participation: Most HAPs are underfunded and formulated without involving worker collectives or unions. Eg: Unlike Ahmedabad’s more inclusive model that adjusted work hours and created shaded rest areas, many cities fail to allocate funds or consult informal worker groups.

    Why are informal workers most vulnerable to heatwaves?

    • Prolonged Exposure to Outdoor Heat: Informal workers often work in open, unshaded environments without protective infrastructure. Eg: Street vendors and construction workers spend long hours on roads or open sites under direct sunlight, increasing the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
    • Lack of Social and Health Protection: Most informal workers are not covered under formal health insurance or welfare schemes. Eg: Waste pickers or rickshaw pullers facing heat exhaustion rarely get access to medical care or income support during extreme weather conditions.
    • No Control Over Work Conditions: Informal work lacks regulated hours, rest breaks, or heat safety norms. Eg: Gig workers or daily wage labourers often continue working during peak heat hours to avoid income loss, further risking their health.

    Who should be included in drafting worker-focused HAPs?

    • Informal Worker Collectives and Unions: These groups bring first-hand knowledge of occupational challenges and practical needs. Eg: Street vendor associations can guide the placement of shaded stalls or cooling zones in high-traffic market areas.
    • Local Civil Society and NGOs: They have ground-level experience working with vulnerable communities and can ensure inclusive planning. Eg: NGOs working with waste pickers can help identify priority locations for hydration points and rest shelters.
    • Urban Local Bodies and Municipal Officials: City planners and officials must coordinate resources and integrate worker needs into official frameworks. Eg: Municipal corporations can designate public spaces like bus depots or community halls as cooling centers for workers.

    Where should cooling zones be set up for maximum worker benefit?

    • High-Density Work Areas: Install cooling zones where informal workers are concentrated and exposed to heat. Eg: Labour chowks, construction sites, and industrial zones where daily wage workers gather and work outdoors.
    • Public Transport Hubs and Markets: Busy areas with long waiting times or heavy footfall offer strategic relief points. Eg: Bus stations, metro exits, and wholesale markets where street vendors and rickshaw pullers operate.
    • Slum Clusters and Informal Settlements: Set up community cooling centres where workers live in poorly ventilated, heat-trapping environments. Eg: Urban slums lacking trees or open spaces, where indoor heat stress is high during nights and afternoons.

    How can cities integrate heat resilience into governance and planning? (Way forward)

    • Embed Heat-Safety Norms in Urban Planning Frameworks: Include heat adaptation measures in master plans, building bye-laws, and zoning regulations. Eg: Mandating cool roofs, passive ventilation, and shaded pathways in all new public infrastructure projects.
    • Retrofit Informal Workspaces for Thermal Comfort: Upgrade existing markets, labour hubs, and waste collection zones with heat-resilient designs. Eg: Installing reflective roofing, shade nets, and drinking water stations in street vendor zones.
    • Establish Interdepartmental Coordination and Accountability: Create dedicated roles (like a heat officer) and inter-ministerial task forces for climate and labour. Eg: A city-level heat officer coordinating between health, labour, and urban departments to ensure timely responses during heatwaves.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2013] Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.

    Linkage: It is time to protect India’s workers from the heat” discusses the growing crisis of extreme heat in Indian cities and its severe impact on urban informal workers.

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