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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    ISRO’s plans to venture into planetary defence 

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Why in the news? 

    Last week, ISRO Chairman S Somanath expressed the possibility of engaging with the asteroid Apophis during its close approach to Earth at a distance of 32,000 km in 2029. However, the specific manner of ISRO’s involvement has not yet been determined.

    Space objects: 


    The asteroid Apophis may pose a threat:

    • Initial Concerns: Discovered in 2004, Apophis initially posed a 2.7% chance of colliding with Earth, raising alarms due to its size (about 450 m wide).
    • Revised Risk: Subsequent observations ruled out immediate collision risks in 2029, 2036, and 2068, but it will pass close to Earth in 2029 at 32,000 km.
    • Potential Impact: Its size could cause significant damage if it were to collide with Earth, though recent observations suggest no imminent danger.

    Other possible incoming threats from space:

    • Daily Encounters: Thousands of asteroids enter Earth’s atmosphere daily, most burning up due to friction, causing phenomena like fireballs.
    • Russian Example: In 2013, a 20-meter asteroid exploded above Russia, releasing significant energy and causing damage and injuries.
    • Detection Challenges: Some asteroids are detected only upon entering the atmosphere, especially those coming from the direction of the Sun, which can obscure detection.

    ISRO’s plan: From sci-fi to reality:

    • Planetary Defense Initiative: ISRO aims to develop capabilities in planetary defense, potentially participating in missions to study and potentially deflect asteroids.
    • Collaboration: Considering sending its own spacecraft or collaborating with other space agencies, like NASA, which has already redirected a spacecraft to study Apophis in 2029.
    • Evolution of ISRO: Reflects ISRO’s evolution as a space agency, transitioning from aspirations to reality in tackling global space objectives, demonstrating growing confidence and capabilities.

    Way forward: 

    • Form Partnerships: ISRO should actively seek partnerships with leading space agencies like NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), and others involved in asteroid detection and planetary defense.
    • Joint Missions: Collaborate on joint missions to study and potentially mitigate asteroid threats. This could include sharing resources, technology, and expertise to maximize effectiveness and minimize costs.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (UPSC IAS/2019)

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  • Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications

    How PM Modi’s visit to Austria sends a message both to Moscow and the West

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

    Why in the news? 

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi selected Vienna as a neutral location to convey a message to both Moscow and the Western countries.

    What message it sent?

    • India’s Diplomatic Signal: Modi’s visit to Vienna after meeting Putin in Moscow underscored India’s commitment to global peace and non-violence.Statements emphasized India’s concern over civilian casualties in conflict zones and the futility of war as a solution.
    • Historical Context: Referencing Austria’s historical neutrality and diplomatic role during the Cold War, Modi’s visit reaffirmed India’s stance on maintaining strategic autonomy. Highlighted India’s support for negotiated settlements and dialogue in international disputes.

    Similarity in ideologies between both countries

    • Neutrality and Non-Alignment: Both India and Austria historically maintained neutrality in global conflicts. Shared values in promoting peace, diplomacy, and non-intervention in internal affairs of other nations.
    • Historical Ties: Nehru’s role in supporting Austria’s sovereignty post-World War II reflected shared principles of neutrality and independence. Both countries value multilateralism and respect for international law.

    Evolution of bilateral relations between India and Austria

    • Establishment of Diplomatic Relations: Diplomatic ties between India and Austria were established in 1949, celebrating 75 years of engagement in 2024.Historical visits by leaders from both countries have strengthened political and economic cooperation.
    • Modern Partnerships: Focus on future-oriented collaborations in infrastructure, renewable energy, technology, and trade. Continuation of bilateral engagements despite global geopolitical shifts, maintaining a balanced approach in international relations.

    Key dimension related to relation between Austria and India: 

    • Political Relations: India intervened in Austria’s favor during negotiations with the Soviet Union on the Austrian State Treaty in 1953.India supported Austria on the UN-South Tyrol conventions. Austria expressed support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council.
    • Economic Relations: As of 2019, there are over 200 collaborations, including 100 technical collaborations and 60 joint ventures between Indian and Austrian firms.Bilateral trade between Austria and India was EUR 2.93 billion in 2023. Austria has received a cumulative foreign direct investment of EUR 1.159 billion from India as of 2023.
    • Cultural Relations: The Indo-Austrian cultural relations date back to the 16th century. The Austrian tradition of Indology began in the 19th century.Rabindranath Tagore visited Vienna in 1921 and 1926, fostering cultural exchange.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Political Dialogue: Increase high-level visits and diplomatic exchanges to deepen understanding and cooperation on global issues like climate change, terrorism, and global health.
    • Support for Multilateral Initiatives: Collaborate in multilateral forums such as the United Nations to promote shared values of peace, neutrality, and respect for international law. Work towards common positions on global challenges.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem. (UPSC IAS/2019)

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  • NITI Aayog’s Assessment

    Release of SDG India Index 2023-24- NITI Aayog     

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Why in the news?

    Overall SDG score for the country is 71 for 2023-24, significant improvement from 66 in 2020-21 and 57 in 2018 (Baseline report).

    About SDG India Index:

    • The SDG India Index is a comprehensive tool developed by NITI Aayog to measure the progress of India and its states/UTs towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • The index tracks the progress on 113 indicators aligned with the National Indicator Framework of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

    Key highlights and results from the fourth edition of the SDG India Index:     

    • Top Performers: Uttarakhand and Kerala secured the top spots with a score of 79 out of 100, showcasing strong performance across Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as poverty eradication, health, education, and environmental sustainability.
    • National Improvement: India’s overall SDG score improved from 66 points in 2020-21 to 71 points in 2023-24, indicating significant progress in achieving the SDGs nationwide. This improvement reflects efforts in poverty reduction, economic growth, and environmental conservation.
    • State-wise Variations: Bihar ranked lowest with 57 points, indicating areas needing more attention and development. States like Punjab, Manipur, West Bengal, and Assam showed notable improvements, with Punjab leading the pack with an increase of 8 points to reach 76 points.
    • Goal-specific Insights: Goals such as “No Poverty,” “Decent Work and Economic Growth,” and “Life on Land” saw the highest increases in scores, reflecting advancements in income equality, employment opportunities, and biodiversity conservation efforts.
    • Challenges and Focus Areas: Gender Equality received the lowest score at 49 points, highlighting persistent challenges in achieving parity in workforce participation, education access, and political representation. Addressing issues related to hunger and nutrition remains a priority, with the “Zero Hunger” goal scoring 52 points, emphasizing the need for nutritious food access and combating malnutrition.

    How did States and UT performed?    

    • Score Ranges: States’ scores range from 57 to 79, while UTs score between 65 and 77. This indicates an improvement compared to the 2020-21 scores, where the range was 52 to 75 for States and 62 to 79 for UTs.
    • Front Runner Category: There has been a significant increase in the number of States and UTs achieving Front Runner status. In the latest edition, 32 States/UTs scored between 65 and 99, up from 22 in the previous edition. Notably, 10 new States and UTs entered the Front Runner category, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.
    • Score Improvements: Across all States and UTs, there has been improvement in composite scores ranging from 1 to 8 points since the 2020-21 edition. Leading in score improvements are Assam, Manipur, Punjab, West Bengal, and Jammu and Kashmir, each showing an increase of 8 points.
    • Methodology: The methodology involves compiling raw data for indicators, setting 2030 targets, normalizing data to a 0-100 score, and calculating Goal scores as means of relevant indicators. The composite score represents an average of all Goal scores, excluding Goal 14 focused solely on coastal States.

    Way forward: 

    • Targeted Interventions for Lagging States: Implement customized, data-driven interventions in States with lower scores, such as Bihar, to address specific challenges in poverty, health, and education.
    • Enhance Focus on Gender Equality and Nutrition: Strengthen policies and programs aimed at improving gender equality and combating malnutrition, particularly by increasing female workforce participation and ensuring access to nutritious food.

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Zoological Survey of India’s Report on Animal Discoveries 2023

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

    Why in the News?

    A report titled “Animal Discoveries 2023” by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) highlights significant new species findings in Maharashtra and across India.

    New Species in Maharashtra:

    • Maharashtra recorded 14 new animal species in 2023, with two species reported for the first time in India.
    • Notably, among the 25 Arachnid species reported for the first time in India, two belong to Maharashtra—Steatoda Erigoniformis and Myrmarachne Spissa.
    1. Steatoda Erigoniformis: It is a species of spider known for its resemblance to the more dangerous black widow spiders. They are commonly referred to as “false widow spiders.”
    2. Myrmarachne Spissa: It is part of a group of spiders that mimic ants in appearance and behaviour, a trait known as myrmecomorphy. Previously reported in Sri Lanka, Myrmarachne Spissa’s discovery in Pune marks its first report from India, highlighting the region’s biodiversity significance.

    Key Findings from the ZSI Report:

    • National Discoveries:
      • In 2023, Indian scientists reported a total of 641 new discoveries, including 442 new species and 199 new records for India.
      • This includes the discovery of 19 new genera. As of January 1, 2024, India’s faunal diversity stands at 104,561 species, with the additions in 2023 constituting 6.65% of the global faunal diversity.
    • Categories of Discoveries:
      • Invertebrates accounted for the majority of new discoveries with 564 species, while vertebrates contributed 77 species.
      • Among invertebrates, insects led with 369 new species, while vertebrates were dominated by fish with 47 species, followed by reptiles, amphibians, and mammals.
    • Regional Distribution:
      • Kerala reported the highest number of new discoveries (101), followed by West Bengal (72), Tamil Nadu (64), Arunachal Pradesh (45), Karnataka (45), and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (36).
      • Southern India consistently reports the highest number of species.

     

    Back2Basics: Zoological Survey of India

    • The ZSI was set up by British zoologist Thomas Nelson Annandale, in 1916.
    • It is the premier taxonomic research organisation in India based in Kolkata.
    • It was established to promote surveys, exploration and research leading to the advancement of our knowledge of various aspects of the exceptionally rich animal life of India.
    • The ZSI had its genesis as the Zoological Section of the Indian Museum at Calcutta in 1875.
    • Since its inception, the ZSI has been documenting the diversity and distribution of the fauna of India towards carrying out its mandate of conducting exploration-cum-taxonomic-research programmes.
    • The ZSI has published an extremely large amount of information on all animal taxa, from Protozoa to Mammalia.

     

    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

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  • Renewable Energy – Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, etc.

    Upper Siang Hydropower Project in Arunachal Pradesh

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

    Why in the News?

    Activists are protesting against the Upper Siang Hydropower Project in Arunachal.

    About Upper Siang Multipurpose Storage Project

    • The Upper Siang project is a proposed 11,000 MW hydropower project on the Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh.
      • The Siang, originating near Mount Kailash in Tibet (Tsangpo), flows over 1,000 km eastward, enters Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang, and later becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam.
    • Initially proposed as two separate projects, it was consolidated into one larger project in 2017, to be built by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), featuring a 300-metre high dam.

    Strategic Importance:

    • The Upper Siang project is seen as a strategic move to counter China’s hydel projects on the Tsangpo, particularly a 60,000 MW ‘super dam’ in Tibet’s Medog county.
    • This super dam’s capacity is nearly 3x that of the Three Gorges Dam in China and is intended to divert water to northern China.

    Environmental and Social Concerns

    • Anti-dam organizations express concerns about the project’s environmental and social impact in their memorandum.
    • The memorandum highlights the threat to delicate ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity in Arunachal Pradesh, which already hosts numerous dams.
    • The activists are particularly worried about the displacement of communities, as the project could submerge over 300 villages of the Adi tribe, including the district headquarters of Yingkiong.
    • Activists are also wary of the project’s portrayal as a national interest endeavor and are troubled by a provision in the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, which exempts strategic projects within 100 km from India’s borders from clearance requirements.

    Back2Basics: Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023

    Details
    Land Under the Purview of the Act Defines two categories of land under its purview:

    1. Land declared as forest under the Indian Forest Act or any other law, or notified as a forest after 25th October 1980.
    2. Land converted from forest to non-forest use before 12th December 1996.
    Exemptions from the Act Allows exemptions for:

    • Up to 0.10 hectares of forest land for connectivity purposes along roads and railways. 
    • Up to 10 hectares for security-related infrastructure.
    • Up to 5 hectares in Left Wing Extremism Affected Districts for public utility projects.
    • Additionally, strategic projects within 100 km of international borders, LAC, and LoC are also exempted.
    Permitted Activities in Forest Land
    • Includes conservation, management, and development efforts.
    • Activities like zoos, ecotourism facilities, silvi-cultural operations, and specified surveys are exempted from non-forest purposes.
    Assignment/Leasing of Forest Land
    • Extends the prerequisite for obtaining prior approval from the central government for the assignment of forest land to any entity, broadening the scope beyond private entities.
    • It also grants the central government the authority to stipulate the terms and conditions governing such assignments.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] The Brahmaputra, Irrawady and Mekong rivers originate in Tibet and flow it through narrow and parallel mountain ranges in their upper reaches. Of these rivers, Brahmaputra makes a “U” turn in its course to flow into India. This “U” turn is due to:

    (a) Uplift of folded Himalayan series

    (b) Syntaxial bending of geologically young Himalayas

    (c) Geo-tectonic disturbance in the tertiary folded mountain chains

    (d) Both (A) and (B) above

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  • Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

    [pib] National Gopal Ratna Award, 2024

    Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Economics Of Animal-Rearing

    Why in the News?

    • The National Gopal Ratna Award (NGRA) 2024 has been awarded by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
      • The awards are conferred annually on National Milk Day, which is celebrated on 26th November.

    What is the National Gopal Ratna Award (NGRA)?

    • NGRA is an initiative under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, launched by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
    • Objective: The award aims to promote the conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds, which are crucial for the sustainability of the dairy sector in India.
    • Categories: NGRA is awarded in several categories:
      • Best Dairy farmer rearing indigenous cattle/buffalo breeds.
      • Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS)/ Milk Producer Company (MPC)/ Dairy Farmer Producer Organization (FPO).
      • Best Artificial Insemination Technician (AIT).

    Other aspects of the Award

      • Special Recognition: In recent years, a special award category has been included for the North Eastern Region (NER) states to encourage dairy development activities in these regions.
    • Nomination and Recognition: Nominations for the NGRA are submitted online through the National Award portal.
    • Award Details:
    • NGRA 2024 will confer awards in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd ranks, and one Special Award for the NER States in each category.
    • Cash prizes for Best Dairy Farmer and Best DCS/FPO/MPC categories:
      • Rs. 5,00,000/- (1st rank)
      • Rs. 3,00,000/- (2nd rank)
      • Rs. 2,00,000/- (3rd rank)
      • Rs. 2,00,000/- (Special Award for NER).
    • Best AIT category: Certificate of merit and a memento, without any cash prize.

    Back2Basics: Rashtriya Gokul Mission

    Details
    About
    • Implemented for development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds since December 2014.
    • Continued under the umbrella scheme Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana from 2021 to 2026 with a budget of Rs.2400 crore.
    Nodal Ministry Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
    Objectives
    • Enhance productivity of bovines and increase milk production sustainably using advanced technologies.
    • Propagate the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding purposes.
    • Enhance artificial insemination coverage by strengthening the breeding network and providing services at farmers’ doorsteps.
    • Promote indigenous cattle & buffalo rearing and conservation in a scientific and holistic manner.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.

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  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

    Impose ‘Robot Tax’ for AI-induced Job Loss: RSS

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Why in the News?

    The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), wants a ‘robot tax’ to help employees who lose their jobs because companies are using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

    SJM’s Proposals and Suggestions

    • Robot Tax Proposal: SJM proposes a ‘robot tax’ to create a fund supporting workers displaced by AI adoption to upskill and adapt to new technologies.
    • Tax Incentives for Job Creation: Suggestions include tax incentives for industries based on their employment-output ratio to encourage job creation.
    • Fund for Worker Upskilling: Emphasizes the need for economic measures to cope with the human cost of AI. SJM suggests using a ‘robot tax’ to fund worker upskilling programs.

    Additional Budgetary Recommendations

    • Incentivise job creation: SJM suggests tax incentives for industries generating more employment, based on an employment-output ratio.
    • Subsidies for Small Farmers: SJM proposes subsidies for micro irrigation projects to boost productivity among small farmers.
      • SJM recommends that micro-irrigation projects be made eligible for funding via CSR by adding them to Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013.
    • Wealth tax on Vacant Lands: SJM suggests a wealth tax on “vacant land” to discourage unnecessary landholding for future requirements.

    What is a Robot Tax?

    • A robot tax is a proposed tax on companies that use automation and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to replace human workers.
    • The idea behind this tax is to generate revenue that can be used to support workers who lose their jobs due to automation.
      • This can include retraining programs, unemployment benefits, and other forms of social support.

    Need for a Robot Tax

    • Job Displacement:
      • Automation Impact: AI and automation can lead to significant job losses in various industries as machines and software perform tasks previously done by humans.
      • Worker Support: A robot tax can provide financial resources to support displaced workers, helping them transition to new roles or acquire new skills.
    • Economic Inequality:
      • Wealth Distribution: Automation tends to concentrate wealth among those who own the technology, leading to increased economic inequality.
      • Redistribution: Taxing companies that benefit from automation can help redistribute wealth more fairly across society.
    • Funding for Public Programs:
      • Social Safety Nets: Revenue from a robot tax can fund social safety nets such as unemployment benefits, retraining programs, and other social services.
      • Infrastructure: It can also support public infrastructure projects and other initiatives that benefit society as a whole.
    • Incentivising Human Employment:
      • Employment Decisions: By imposing a tax on automation, companies might be more inclined to consider human workers over robots for certain tasks.
      • Balanced Approach: This can help maintain a balance between technological advancement and human employment.

    Examples and Proposals

    • Bill Gates’ Proposal: Bill Gates in 2022 advocated for a robot tax, suggesting that the revenue could fund job retraining and other social benefits.
    • European Parliament: In 2017, the European Parliament considered a robot tax as part of broader regulations on AI and robotics, though it was ultimately not implemented.

    Criticisms and Challenges

    • Implementation: Determining how to effectively implement and enforce a robot tax can be challenging.
    • Innovation Stifling: Critics argue that a robot tax could hinder innovation and technological progress.
    • Global Competition: There are concerns that companies might relocate to countries without such a tax, affecting global competitiveness.

    Conclusion

    • A robot tax is a controversial yet potentially beneficial approach to addressing the economic and social impacts of AI and automation.
    • It aims to provide support for displaced workers, reduce economic inequality, and ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are shared more broadly across society.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Disguised unemployment generally means:

    (a) large number of people remain unemployed

    (b) alternative employment is not available

    (c) marginal productivity of labour is zero

    (d) productivity of workers is low

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Why are dengue cases on the rise worldwide?     

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3:

    Why in the news?

    In recent weeks, there has been an increase in dengue cases, notably in Karnataka, with rising numbers also observed in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

    What is the global situation of dengue?

    • Epidemiological Burden: In 2024, over 7.6 million cases of dengue were reported globally, with 3.4 million confirmed cases and significant numbers of severe cases and deaths. Dengue affects approximately half of the world’s population, with an estimated 100-400 million infections occurring annually.
    • Geographical Distribution: Dengue transmission occurs in 90 countries worldwide, predominantly in tropical and subtropical regions. The disease is endemic in more than 100 countries across WHO regions, including Africa, the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, South-East Asia, and the Western Pacific.

    Are urbanisation and climate change fuelling dengue spread in the world?

    Urbanization:

    • Increased Population Density: Urban areas provide optimal conditions for the Aedes aegypti mosquito due to the availability of breeding sites like stagnant water in containers, tires, and other urban infrastructure.
    • Expansion of Cities: Rapid urbanization leads to unplanned growth, inadequate waste management, and inadequate water supply, creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
    • Human Movement: Urbanization facilitates increased human mobility, enabling the spread of the dengue virus through infected individuals travelling between urban centers.

    Climate Change:

    • Temperature and Rainfall Patterns: Warmer temperatures and altered rainfall patterns associated with climate change create favourable conditions for mosquito breeding and survival.
    • Shifts in Geographic Distribution: Changing climate allows Aedes mosquitoes to expand their range to new regions previously unaffected by dengue, including temperate climates.
    • Extreme Weather Events: Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events like hurricanes and floods provide breeding opportunities for mosquitoes and facilitate virus transmission.

    Impact:

    • Health Impact: India accounts for an estimated 33 million clinically apparent dengue cases each year, contributing to a third of the global dengue burden
    • Economic Impact: A cost analysis study in southern India estimated the direct medical costs per hospitalized dengue patient at around ₹20,000 in 2017-18, with costs soaring to over ₹61,000 for complications requiring intensive care.
    • Impact on Individuals: Dengue can cause a wide spectrum of illness, from mild flu-like symptoms to severe complications like internal bleeding, organ impairment, and potentially death if not treated promptly.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Urban Infrastructure: Improve urban planning to include effective waste management, regular clearing of stagnant water sources, and sustainable water supply systems to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch comprehensive public awareness campaigns focusing on urban populations to promote community involvement in mosquito control measures and encourage responsible waste disposal practices.

    Mains PYQ: 

    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 IAS/2015)

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Breaking the taboo around men’s reproductive health  

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

    Why in the news? 

    Following World Population Day (July 11), amidst discussions on global population dynamics, it is essential to highlight a topic often overlooked in conversations about reproductive health: male infertility.

    World Health Organization (WHO) Global Perspective on infertility:

    • Prevalence: WHO estimates that 60 million to 80 million couples worldwide experience infertility.
    • Male vs. Female Infertility: Globally, male infertility accounts for approximately 50% of all infertility cases.

    Issues Specific to India:

    • Data Deficiency: Unlike global estimates, specific prevalence data for infertility in India are outdated (from ICMR guidelines in 2005) and not comprehensive.
    • Male Infertility: In India, male infertility constitutes a significant portion of all infertility cases, estimated to be around 50%, mirroring global trends.
    • Contributing Factors: Unique challenges in India include environmental pollution, pesticide exposure in agriculture, lifestyle changes including late marriages and stress, which contribute to rising infertility rates.
    • Access to Treatment: Disparities in access to advanced infertility treatments exist, with urban areas having better access compared to rural regions.
    • Cultural and Social Stigma: Infertility remains stigmatized in Indian society, affecting mental health and social well-being of affected couples, and hindering open discussions and seeking timely medical help.

    What are the actual causes of infertility?   

    • Male Factors: Low sperm count (oligospermia) or poor sperm motility (asthenozoospermia). Anatomical issues such as blocked sperm ducts or varicocele. Hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and environmental influences like exposure to toxins.
    • Female Factors: Ovulation disorders, including hormonal imbalances like PCOS. Structural issues like blocked fallopian tubes or uterine abnormalities. Endometriosis, is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
    • Shared Factors: Age-related decline in fertility. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity. Medical conditions like cancer and its treatments, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications affecting fertility.

    Treatment options

    • Semen Analysis: Essential for diagnosing male infertility, conducted after a period of sexual abstinence.
    • Medical Consultation: Vital to identify underlying causes, whether physical (e.g., blocked sperm flow, anatomical issues) or genetic.
    • Corrective Surgeries: Address issues like blocked sperm ducts, undescended testicles, or anatomical abnormalities affecting sperm production and flow.

    Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):

    • Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): Effective for cases of severe male infertility where sperm count is extremely low.
    • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Suitable when sperm motility is good but count is low, facilitating fertilization within the uterus.
    • In vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Used when both sperm count and motility are low, involving fertilization outside the body before implantation.
    • Donor Sperm Insemination or Adoption: Options for couples where male infertility is irreparable, providing alternative paths to parenthood.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Data Collection and Research: Update and expand prevalence data on infertility in India through national surveys and research initiatives. This should include both urban and rural populations to understand regional disparities.
    • Public Awareness and Support Programs: Launch nationwide campaigns to raise awareness about infertility as a medical condition, debunk myths, and reduce stigma.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.

    Future investments in India’s EV space  

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Why in the news? 

    The government plans to expand its EV policy to include retrospective benefits, incentivizing entities that have already invested, with a formal announcement expected in August.

    Why is the government considering extending the EV policy?

    • Retrospective Effect: To include a retrospective effect, extending benefits to entities that have already made investments, aiming to reward and encourage early movers in the EV sector.
    • Encouraging Global Players: The policy seeks to prompt global players to localize production and invest in the domestic ecosystem.
    • Inclusive Incentives: Earlier, entities were eligible for incentives only if they set up local facilities within three years of receiving approval. The extension aims to make these incentives more inclusive.

    EV Policy of India: 

    • FAME Scheme: The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme is India’s flagship program to incentivize EV adoption. FAME-II, the current phase, provides incentives of:
      • ₹15,000 per kWh for 2-wheelers, up to 40% of the vehicle cost
      • ₹10,000 per kWh for 3-wheelers and 4-wheelers
      • ₹20,000 per kWh for electric buses
    • Phased Manufacturing Program (PMP): To boost local manufacturing, the government has implemented a Phased Manufacturing Program that gradually increases import duties on EV components over time, incentivizing domestic production.

    About the New EV Policy 2024:

    The key highlights of the new EV policy announced in 2024 include:

    • Reduced customs duty of 15% on imported EVs with a minimum CIF value of $35,000
    • A cap of 8,000 imported EVs per year
    • Requirement for manufacturers to invest at least ₹4,150 crore (~$500 million) and achieve 25% domestic value addition within 3 years, escalating to 50% in 5 years
    • Duty waiver capped at the investment made or ₹6,484 crore (equal to the PLI scheme incentive), whichever is lower.

    How does the revised policy align with India’s goals of enhancing local manufacturing and technology adoption in the EV industry?

    • Domestic Value Addition: The policy mandates that half of the value addition in manufacturing be done domestically within five years, boosting local manufacturing.
    • Import Duty Reduction: Reducing import duty on EVs with a minimum CIF value of $35,000 from 70%-100% to 15% to make the transition commercially viable.
    • Strengthening EV Ecosystem: By encouraging local production and investment, the policy aims to strengthen the entire EV ecosystem in India.
    • Global Leadership: Positioning India as a leader in the global transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles by fostering a sustainable and technologically advanced manufacturing environment.

    In what ways can the policy’s focus on localization and production volume increase competition and lower costs?

    • Economies of Scale: Higher volumes of production can lead to economies of scale, reducing the per-unit cost of EVs.
    • Healthy Competition: Encouraging competition among EV players to innovate and improve efficiency, thereby lowering production costs and prices for consumers.
    • Cost Reduction: Achieving higher production volumes and localized manufacturing will contribute to a significant decline in production costs, making EVs more affordable for Indian consumers.
    • Comprehensive Ecosystem: The focus on localization ensures the development of a robust supply chain and after-sales service network, further enhancing the viability and attractiveness of EVs in India.

    Way forward: 

    • Support Local Manufacturers: Provide incentives and support for domestic manufacturers to produce critical EV components such as batteries, motors, and controllers. This will reduce dependency on imports and enhance self-reliance.
    • R&D Investment: Increase investment in research and development to drive innovation in EV technology, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of advancements in the industry.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q ‘Clean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. (UPSC IAS/2022)

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