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  • The row over tungsten mining near Madurai

    Why in the News?

    Environmental activists protested outside the Madurai District Collector’s office (Tamil Nadu), voicing their opposition to Vedanta’s auction win for Tungsten Mining Rights in Melur, following the Ministry of Mines‘ announcement

    Why have there been protests over mining Rights?

    • Environmental Concerns: Activists and residents are vehemently opposing the tungsten mining project due to its potential impact on biodiversity. Because of the fears that mining activities could irreparably damage these sites and disrupt local ecosystems, including vital water sources like the Periyar canal.
    • Community Impact: Locals fear that mining will threaten their livelihoods, as many depend on agriculture and local resources. The protests have seen significant participation from various villages in the region, highlighting widespread community opposition to the project.
    • Political Response: The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has called for the cancellation of the mining rights and plans to introduce a resolution in the Tamil Nadu Assembly to formally reject the mining project. He emphasizes that any mining activity in these areas would be unacceptable without state consent.

    What does the Ministry of Mines say about Mining?

    • Auction of Mineral Blocks: The Nayakkarpatti Tungsten Block covering an area of over 20.16 sq. km. was proposed for auction in February 2024. Inputs were taken from the state government of Tamil Nadu before the block was put up for auction.
      • The Ministry cited the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 as the legal framework enabling this auction process.
    • Mineral Richness: The Ministry also noted that the area designated for tungsten mining was found to be rich in scheelite (a crucial ore for tungsten extraction), thus justifying its selection for mining activities.

    About the  Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957:

    • The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, provides a framework for the regulation of mining activities in India, governing the exploration, licensing, and development of minerals except for petroleum and natural gas.
    • It empowers the central government to specify major minerals and the state governments to regulate minor minerals, ensuring a structured division of responsibilities in mineral resource management.
    • Major minerals are high-value minerals that include coal, lignite, iron ore, bauxite, gold, silver, zinc, copper, manganese, and other ores critical for industrial and strategic purposes.
    • Minor minerals are low-value, non-metallic minerals primarily used in construction and local industries, such as sand, gravel, clay, building stones, marble, and slate.

    Is there a Centre-State rift?

    Yes, a notable rift exists between the Tamil Nadu government and the Union government regarding this issue.

    • Lack of State Consent: The Tamil Nadu government claims it did not provide consent for the auction and had previously communicated concerns regarding environmental implications. In contrast, the Union government contends that there was no formal opposition from Tamil Nadu during the auction process.
    • Political Tensions: This situation has led to heightened tensions between the state and central governments, with accusations from Tamil Nadu officials that their concerns were ignored by the Union government when granting mining rights to Hindustan Zinc Limited.

    Can the state government supersede the authority of the central government in this matter?

    In the context of mining rights and environmental matters, the state government cannot directly override the power of the central government. However, there are several ways available to the state government to influence or challenge the decision made by the Union government.

    • Constitutional Framework: The Indian Constitution divides powers between the Union and states; mining regulation is under the Union List, while environmental protection is in the Concurrent List, granting states authority over local environmental issues.
    • Biodiversity & Environmental Protection: States can challenge mining projects through laws like the Environmental Protection Act (1986) and Biological Diversity Act (2002), or by passing laws to protect ecologically sensitive areas.
    • State Assembly’s Role: The state legislature can pass resolutions expressing opposition to federal actions, and applying political pressure on the Union government, especially with public protests.
    • Judicial Review & Coordination: States can seek judicial review if Union actions violate constitutional or environmental laws. While states cannot override central mining rights, cooperative federalism emphasizes consultation between the Union and states.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced State-Central Coordination: Establish a more transparent and binding consultation process between the state and central governments before granting mining rights, ensuring that local concerns and state consent are prioritized, especially for ecologically sensitive areas.
    • Thorough Environmental Review: Implement a mandatory, independent Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for mining projects in biodiversity hotspots, incorporating input from local communities, environmental experts, and authorities to address potential ecological and socio-economic impacts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • Emissions Gap Report 2024

    Why in the News?

    According to the recently released ‘Emission Gap Report 2024’ presented by UNEP, Global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions have reached a new high of 57.1 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2023, a 1.3% rise compared to 2022.

    What are the key points of Emissions Gap Report 2024?

    • Urgent Emission Reduction Targets: To align with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement, global greenhouse gas emissions must decrease by 42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035 compared to 2019 levels.
      • For a 2°C target, reductions of 28% by 2030 and 37% by 2035 are necessary. Current commitments and policies are insufficient, putting the world on track for a temperature rise of 2.6-3.1°C, which would lead to severe climate impacts.
    • Potential for Significant Reductions: The report highlights that it is still technically feasible to achieve the 1.5°C pathway through aggressive action, including increased deployment of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which could contribute 27% of the necessary reductions by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
      • Additionally, actions related to forests could provide around 20% of the potential reductions in both years. A comprehensive approach involving government action, investment in mitigation strategies, and international cooperation is essential to realize these opportunities.

    What are the Global Emission trends?

    • Global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have continued to rise, reaching a record high of 57.1 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2023. This marks an increase from previous years, with fossil fuel CO₂ emissions projected at 37.4 billion tonnes, up 0.8% from 2023, and total CO₂ emissions—including land-use changes—projected to be 41.6 billion tonnes in 2024.
    • The increase is attributed primarily to rising emissions from major economies such as China and India, with India experiencing the largest relative increase at 6.1% and China contributing the most in absolute terms.
    • The overall trend indicates that despite some positive developments in renewable energy adoption, there is no sign that global fossil fuel emissions have peaked, necessitating immediate and substantial reductions to meet climate targets.

     

    What is the progress of G20 countries towards NDCs?

    • Mixed Progress on NDCs: Among G20 countries, six members (China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, and Turkey) are projected to meet their unconditional Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets with current policies.
      • However, eight members (Argentina, Australia, Canada, the EU, South Korea, South Africa, and the United States) require further action to achieve their targets.
      • This indicates a significant disparity in progress across different G20 nations, with many needing to be on track to meet their commitments under the Paris Agreement.
    • Need for Enhanced Ambition: The G20 must significantly ramp up its climate ambitions in the next round of NDCs to align with the goals of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. This includes committing to substantial emissions reductions—42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035.

    What is the NCD target? 

    • Collective Emission Reduction Goals: G20 countries have pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), targeting a 42% reduction by 2030 and 57% by 2035, aligned with the Paris Agreement to limit warming below 2°C.
    • Diverse Member Targets and Progress: G20 members have varied NDC targets, such as China aiming to peak CO2 emissions by 2030 with a 60-65% reduction in carbon intensity, while Argentina caps net emissions at 483 million tons of CO2 equivalent.

    What is needed to bridge the gap between 2030 and 2035 goals? (Way forward)

    • Significant Annual Emission Reductions: A reduction of 7.5% per year until 2035 is necessary to align with the 1.5°C pathway, while a 4% annual reduction is needed for the 2°C target.
    • Investment in Renewable Energy: The increased deployment of solar and wind technologies could deliver approximately 27% of the total emission reduction potential by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
    • Action on Forests: Protecting and restoring forests could provide around 20% of the required reductions in both years.
    • Comprehensive Policy Measures: A whole-of-government approach is essential, maximizing socioeconomic and environmental co-benefits while minimizing trade-offs.
    • Increased Mitigation Investment: A minimum six-fold increase in investments for climate mitigation is critical, necessitating reforms in global financial systems and strong private sector involvement.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases that cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [pib] 4th Good Governance Week, 2024

    Why in the News?

    “Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore” a nationwide campaign is launched by the Government of India, from December 19–24, 2024, as part of the 4th Good Governance Week.

    About the Nationwide Campaign ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore’

    • It is a nationwide campaign to address public grievances and improve service delivery across rural and urban areas.
    • It aims to strengthen governance at the grassroots level and bring effective solutions to the common people.
    • It will be conducted in all districts, states, and union territories of India, with a focus on delivering timely solutions and improving the quality of services provided to citizens.
    • Key objectives of the campaign include:
      • Redressing Public Grievances: Ensuring that citizens’ complaints related to government services are resolved swiftly.
      • Improving Service Delivery: Enhancing the efficiency of government services at the local level.
      • Creating Awareness: Spreading knowledge about good governance practices and encouraging citizens to be proactive in using available services.

    Key Observations from the Good Governance Index (GGI) 2022

    • The GGI, 2022 evaluates 58 indicators across 10 governance sectors, such as agriculture and allied sectors, human resource development, public health, and law and order, among others. The key observations are as follows:
      1. Top Performers: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra ranked highest for good governance, excelling in public health, human resources, and economic governance.
      2. Service Delivery: States like Tamil Nadu and Kerala were praised for transparency, accountability, and citizen-focused policies, leading in service delivery.
      3. Agriculture & Rural Development: Uttar Pradesh and Bihar showed improvements in agriculture and rural development, aligning with the goals of Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore.
      4. Health & Education: Kerala and Tamil Nadu excelled in healthcare and education, with significant investments in infrastructure and public schemes.
      5. Sustainable Development: States like Sikkim emphasized environmental governance and sustainable development practices.

    PYQ:

    [2016] What do you understand by the terms ‘governance’, ‘good governance’ and ‘ethical governance’? (150 words)

  • Eurasian Little Gull spotted in Delhi for first time

    Why in the News?

    For the first time, the Eurasian Little Gull was spotted in the National Capital Region (NCR) near Sultanpur National Park at Chandu.

    About the Eurasian Little Gull:

    Details
    Overview and Physical Characteristics
    • Scientific Name: Larus minutus
    • Common Name: Eurasian Little Gull
    • Size: 30-33 cm in length, wingspan 75-85 cm; Weight: 70–150 grams
    Habitat and Features
    • Breeding Habitat: Marshy wetlands, shallow freshwater lakes, and estuaries in Northern Eurasia (Russia, Eastern Europe).
    • Winter Migration: Offshore waters, coastal areas, and estuaries around the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and Caspian Sea.
    • Migratory Pattern: Migrations from northern breeding grounds to warmer regions in winter.
    Conservation Status
    • Conservation Status: Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
    • Rare sightings of the species in India, particularly inland regions like NCR.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are-

    (a) Birds

    (b) Primates

    (c) Reptiles

    (d) Amphibians

  • UNGA declares December 21 as World Meditation Day

    Why in the News?

    India has played a leading role in co-sponsoring and guiding the unanimous adoption of a UN General Assembly draft resolution to declare December 21 as World Meditation Day.

    • The theme for 2024 is- “Inner Peace, Global Harmony”.

    About the World Meditation Day

    • It is a global observance that was officially recognized following the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution on December 6, 2024. However, the 21st of December has been designated as the date for this annual observance.
    • It is also symbolic, of falling on the Winter Solstice (December 21), which is associated with new beginnings, reflection, and spiritual growth in Indian tradition.
      • The date is also exactly six months after the International Day of Yoga on June 21, which marks the Summer Solstice.

    The objective behind this Decision

    • Promote Well-Being: To globally encourage meditation for enhancing mental health and overall wellness.
    • Encourage Inner Reflection: Recognizing December 21 as a time for self-reflection and meditation, especially during Uttarayana in Indian tradition.
    • India’s Global Leadership: Reinforces India’s commitment to global wellness, following its leadership in declaring International Day of Yoga.

    PYQ:

    [2012] With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices?

    1. Meditation and control of breath

    2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place

    3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • What is the Turner Prize?

    Why in the News?

    • Jasleen Kaur, an Indian-origin artist, was awarded the Turner Prize for her exhibit that pays tribute to her family’s history of migration to Scotland.

    What is the Turner Prize?

    About
    • Named after JMW Turner (1775-1851), known for his dramatic seascapes and innovative use of color and light, it was first awarded in 1984 by Patrons of New Art.
    • It aims to promote interest in contemporary art and assist the Tate Gallery in acquiring new works.
    What makes it special?
    • One of the most prestigious awards in contemporary art, awarded annually by the Tate Gallery to an outstanding British artist.
    • Spotlights new talent and helps lesser-known artists gain international recognition.
    • The winner receives £25,000, and shortlisted artists receive £10,000 each.
    Significance in British Culture
    • A major cultural event in the UK, attracting wide media coverage and public attention.
    • Its controversial nature fuels discussions about the definition of art and the role of contemporary artists.
    • Winning the Prize often defines an artist’s place in British culture, establishing them as a significant figure in the art world.

  • Polavaram Project Controversy

    Why in the News?

    The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has restarted its protest against the Polavaram multipurpose project in Andhra Pradesh, claiming it will flood large areas in Malkangiri, Odisha, displacing many tribal communities.

    What were the recommendations by the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT) 1969?

    The Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT), was established to resolve water-sharing disputes concerning Godavari River water among the states of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh (now Chhattisgarh). It made several key recommendations regarding the utilization of Godavari River water. Notable points include:

    • Water Allocation: The Tribunal allowed Andhra Pradesh to divert 80 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of Godavari water at 75% dependability for irrigation and other uses, which could also substitute releases from the Nagarjunasagar project for the Krishna delta.
    • Inter-State Agreements: The Tribunal recognized various inter-state agreements that specified how water from the Godavari and its tributaries could be utilised, ensuring equitable distribution among the states involved.
    • Project Approvals: The GWDT endorsed the construction of projects like Polavaram, provided they adhered to specified Full Reservoir Levels (FRL) and operational guidelines.

    What are the social and environmental impacts of the Polavaram Project?

    • Social Impact: The project is expected to displace over 150,000 people across approximately 276 villages, with many of these being tribal communities. For every five acres irrigated, one tribal family is projected to lose their land.
      • Infrastructure Strain: The project has faced funding challenges for rehabilitation efforts, leading to halted work on necessary infrastructure like canals, which could exacerbate social tensions among displaced populations.
    • Environmental Impact: The dam’s backwaters will submerge an estimated 3,731 hectares of forest land. The environmental impact assessments have raised concerns about ecosystem disruption, including increased vulnerability to erosion and regional landslides.

    How is the project being managed politically and administratively?

    • National Project Status: Declared a national project under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014, the Central Government is responsible for executing the project while ensuring compliance with environmental and rehabilitation norms.
    • Polavaram Project Authority: A governing body has been established to oversee project execution, comprising representatives from both state and central governments. This authority is tasked with ensuring timely execution and adherence to regulatory requirements.
    • Political Dynamics: The project has become a focal point for regional politics, particularly as parties like the BJD leverage opposition against it to bolster their regional identity amidst changing political landscapes in states like Odisha.

    What are the legal and regulatory challenges faced by the Polavaram Project?

    • Ongoing Litigation: Multiple states have challenged the project in court on grounds of inadequate environmental assessments and potential adverse impacts on their territories. Legal disputes have persisted since at least 2011, complicating project timelines.
    • Regulatory Compliance Issues: Environmental clearances for the project have been contentious, particularly following changes in flood situation estimates that were not incorporated into updated designs. This has raised questions about compliance with earlier environmental impact assessments conducted in 2005.
    • Funding Challenges: Financial constraints have hindered progress on rehabilitation efforts for displaced populations, leading to further legal scrutiny regarding compliance with social justice norms and commitments made during project approval processes.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Impact Assessment and Mitigation: Conduct updated environmental and social impact assessments, including backwater studies, and implement robust mitigation measures for displaced populations, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.
    • Strengthen Inter-State Collaboration: Establish a transparent and inclusive mechanism involving all affected states to address concerns, promote equitable resource sharing, and expedite the resolution of legal and administrative challenges.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both? Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • Building on the revival of the manufacturing sector

    Why in the News?

    Manufacturing output grew by 21.5% in 2022-23, but the GVA (Gross value addition) only grew by 7.3%. This is because input costs increased sharply by 24.4%, making production more expensive. As a result, even though industries produced more, their profits and value-added were reduced.

    Note: GVA represents the value added by industries, while manufacturing output refers to total production. GVA reflects the economic contribution, factoring in costs like inputs.

    What is the present scenario of India’s manufacturing sector?

    • Growth Momentum: India’s manufacturing sector is experiencing significant growth, with a reported output increase of 21.5% in 2022-23, as indicated by the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI).
      • This growth is attributed largely to the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which has played a crucial role in boosting production across various sectors, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles.
    • Sectoral Contributions: Key sectors benefiting from the PLI scheme, such as basic metals and motor vehicles, collectively contributed 58% to total manufacturing output, showcasing robust performance driven by these incentives.
    • Positive Economic Indicators: The gross value added (GVA) from manufacturing grew by 7.3%, highlighting an overall recovery in the sector post-COVID-19 disruptions.

    What are the current challenges facing the manufacturing sector?

    • Input Cost Surge: A significant challenge is the rising input prices, which increased by 24.4% in 2022-23. This surge has created a gap between manufacturing output growth and GVA growth, indicating that while production volumes are increasing, profitability is being squeezed due to higher costs.
    • Regional Imbalance: Manufacturing activity is heavily concentrated in a few states—Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh—accounting for over 54% of total manufacturing GVA. This concentration limits equitable development across the country.
    • Skill Development Needs: There is a pressing need for skill enhancement to meet the demands of evolving manufacturing technologies and processes.

    How can digital transformation contribute to the future of manufacturing?

    • Adoption of Advanced Technologies: Digital transformation can enhance manufacturing efficiency through automation, data analytics, and IoT (Internet of Things) integration. This can lead to improved productivity and reduced operational costs.
    • Supply Chain Optimization: Digital tools can streamline supply chain management, making it more resilient to disruptions and better able to respond to global demand fluctuations.
    • Enhanced R&D Capabilities: Investing in digital technologies can foster innovation in product development and advanced manufacturing techniques, positioning India as a leader in high-tech manufacturing sectors.

    What strategies can be implemented to stimulate growth in manufacturing? (Way forward)

    • Expand PLI Scheme Scope: To further stimulate growth, the PLI scheme should be extended to include labour-intensive sectors such as apparel and furniture, as well as emerging industries like aerospace and space technology. This could unlock new growth opportunities and reduce import dependency.
    • Streamline Import Regime: Implementing a simplified three-tier tariff system for imports—0–2.5% for raw materials, 2.5%–5% for intermediates, and 5%–7.5% for finished goods—could help lower input costs and enhance competitiveness.
    • Focus on MSMEs: Tailoring PLI incentives for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by lowering capital investment thresholds could empower these businesses to scale up and innovate.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  Can the strategy of regional-resource-based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • [7th December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Public health — insights from the 1896 Bombay Plague

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC CSE 2015)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have asked questions around the Public Health Policies (2017) and Newer Health Challenges (2020 and 2022).

    India is aiming for real-time public health monitoring platforms National Health Mission Health Management Information System (NHM-HMIS), and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) to enhance surveillance, monitoring, and resource allocation at primary healthcare levels.

    Today’s editorial reflects on the historical context of the Bombay Plague of 1896 and its implications for contemporary public health practices. This content can be used as a case study while exchanging ideas on ‘Public Health Policies and challenges in India’.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    There are ongoing discussions in Parliament around public health strategies in the wake of recent health crises, including the past COVID-19 pandemic.

    • By reflecting on historical lessons from the Bombay 1896 plague outbreak, we can analyze the significance of community engagement, comprehensive disease management strategies, and ethical considerations in health interventions.
    What were the Public Health Measures implemented by Britishers and how effective were they?

    • Quarantine and Isolation: Infected individuals were forcibly removed from their homes and taken to plague hospitals or camps, where they were often separated from their families. This included door-to-door searches conducted by soldiers to identify the sick.
    • Destruction of Property: Personal belongings and houses of the infected were often burned and demolished which led to substantial loss of property for many residents.
    • Sanitation Campaigns: A large-scale sanitation initiative was launched, which included flushing sewers with seawater, washing streets with lime, and disinfecting homes.
    o Special camps were established for the treatment of the infected but often faced criticism for poor conditions and high mortality rates.
    • Legislative Measures: The Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 was enacted, granting authorities extensive powers to enforce health measures, including movement restrictions and compulsory examinations.

    Were they effective?
    • Limited Success: The death toll exceeded 33,000 within a short period, indicating that these strategies did not sufficiently curb the outbreak.
    • Social Backlash: Reports of disrespect during inspections and inadequate hospital conditions fueled anger, resulting in protests and even violent incidents against medical personnel.
    • Migration and Spread: Many residents fled Bombay in response to the plague and government actions, which inadvertently contributed to the spread of the disease beyond urban areas.
    • Long-term Impact: While some improvements in urban infrastructure and public health policies emerged post-plague, many immediate measures were criticized for their insensitivity to local customs and needs.

    What was positive in this policy implementation despite the criticism?

    • Emphasis on control over cases: The Indian Plague Commission’s approach during the 1896 Bombay Plague focused significantly on controlling the movement of people and the spread of the disease rather than directly addressing the health needs of affected individuals. Focus Areas were:
      • Railway Plague Inspection Stations Map (to monitor the movement of people) focused on railway networks and inspection points.
      • Chausa Observation Camp Plan detailed layouts of observation camps that reflected a militarized approach to quarantine with prominent police presence.
      • Khanpur Station Map illustrated disinfection zones and highlighted the role of police in maintaining control over these areas.
    • Cartographic Approach and Its Consequences: The maps were unusually colorful for administrative reports, possibly to convey a sense of effective control while downplaying the epidemic’s severity. The emphasis moved from identifying who was affected by the plague to understanding where the disease could potentially spread.
    • Prioritization of State Control: The Commission’s focus on control points indicated a prioritization of state mechanisms for surveillance rather than an understanding of epidemiological factors or community health requirements.
      • This approach raised concerns about the adequacy of public health responses that prioritized state security over effective disease management and community welfare.

    What lessons can contemporary public health systems learn from the Bombay Plague?

    • Community Engagement: Effective public health responses must include community cooperation. The mistrust generated by colonial policies highlights the need for transparent communication and involvement of local leaders in health initiatives.
    • Comprehensive Disease Management: The outbreak underscored the importance of not only immediate medical responses but also long-term strategies addressing underlying social determinants of health such as poverty and sanitation.
    • Ethical Considerations: The harsh measures taken during the plague raise ethical questions regarding public health interventions. Balancing individual rights with community safety remains a critical challenge for public health officials today.
    • Historical Reflection: Understanding past epidemics can inform current practices. The Bombay Plague illustrates how historical narratives shape contemporary health policies and societal attitudes toward disease management.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/public-health-insights-from-the-1896-bombay-plague/article68955779.ece

  • [pib] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)

    Why in the News?

    • The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has provided state-wise details of farmers registered under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY).
      • Top Three States: Haryana (5,74,467), Bihar (3,45,038), Chhattisgarh (2,02,734).
      • Bottom Three States/UT: Lakshadweep (72), Ladakh (114), Goa (150).
    • Recently, the PMKMY (launched on 12th September 2019) has completed 5 successful years.

    About Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)

    Details Type: Central Sector Scheme
    Objective: To provide a voluntary, contributory pension scheme for farmers aged 18–40 years, ensuring ₹3,000/month pension after they turn 60 years of age.
    Implementation & Structural Mandate Implemented by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
    Pension Fund Manager: Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India
    State-wise Registration: Registered farmers are managed by the respective state governments in collaboration with LIC. The scheme encourages a structured approach involving the collection of contributions and government matching funds.
    Contribution: Farmers contribute between ₹55 and ₹200 per month, depending on their entry age.
    Beneficiaries & Benefits Beneficiaries: Farmers aged 18–40 years.
    Benefits: Assured pension of ₹3,000 per month post-60 years, matching contribution by the Government of India, administered by LIC.
    Exclusions: Income taxpayers, members of government pension schemes, and those already enrolled in other pension schemes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (2020)

    1. Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops
    2. Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
    3. Social Capital development
    4. Free electricity supply to farmers
    5. Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system
    6. Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only

    (c) 2, 3 and 6 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6