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  • Zoonotic Diseases: Medical Sciences Involved & Preventive Measures

    Does H5N1 pose a threat for humans? | Explained

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

    Why in the news?

    The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1’s spread to cattle and first human cases in U.S. dairy workers heighten fears of wider human transmission.

    Can the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 strain spread from cattle to humans?

    • Recent Infections: Three cases of human infection in dairy farm workers were reported in the U.S., indicating the potential for the virus to spread from cattle to humans.
    • Transmission: The virus appears to spread to humans who are in close interaction with infected birds or animals without adequate personal protection.
    • Current Risk Level: Scientists note that the virus currently lacks changes that would make it better adapted to human-to-human transmission, keeping the risk to human health low. However, the potential for the virus to rapidly evolve remains a concern.

    What is the strategy to identify and contain the spread of the virus?

    • Surveillance in Kerala: Kerala has implemented a community-based disease surveillance network involving 2.5 lakh volunteers trained in the ‘One Health’ concept across four districts: Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Idukki.
    • Early Warning System: These volunteers report any unusual events or deaths of animals/birds in their locality, allowing for early warning and prompt preventive or control measures.
    • Global Coordination: There is a call for a robust and coordinated response to H5N1, as emphasized in a recent editorial by The Lancet.

    What is the concept of ‘One Health’ 

    • ‘One Health’ Concept: ‘One Health’ is an approach that recognizes the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts across different sectors to achieve optimal health outcomes.

    How is Kerala using it to limit the spread of avian influenza?

    • Implementation of the ‘One Health’ concept in Kerala: Kerala has operationalized the ‘One Health’ concept through the World Bank-aided ‘Rebuild Kerala’ project. This involves a community-based disease surveillance network where volunteers are trained to monitor and report on animal and bird health, ensuring early detection and response to potential outbreaks.
    • Other Operational Measures: The state has taken proactive steps beyond the conceptual framework of ‘One Health’ by establishing an on-ground, volunteer-driven network for disease monitoring and control.

    Way forward:

    • Strengthen Global Surveillance and Collaboration: Enhance international cooperation for surveillance, data sharing, and rapid response mechanisms to monitor and control the spread of H5N1, leveraging the ‘One Health’ approach for coordinated action across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.
    • Implement Rigorous Biosecurity and Safety Protocols: Ensure strict biosecurity measures and personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers in close contact with animals, particularly in high-risk areas, to prevent zoonotic transmission and reduce the potential for human infections.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that the private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)

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  • Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.

    Why caste should inform debates on inequality in the country?

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Laws, Institutions & Bodies Constituted For The Vulnerable Sections

    Why in the News?

    A recent working paper from the World Inequality Lab has sparked renewed debate about the growing divide between the rich and the poor.

    Disparities in Consumption Patterns:

    • Population vs. Consumption Share: Scheduled Tribes (ST): Despite making up 9% of the population, their consumption share is only 7%. Scheduled Castes (SC): Represent 20% of the population but have a consumption share of 16%. Other Backward Classes (OBC): Align more closely with their population percentage, constituting 43% of the population and a 41% consumption share.General Category: Comprises 28% of the population but commands a significantly higher consumption share of 36%.
    • Reduction in Consumption Inequality: The overall Gini coefficient decreased from 0.359 in 2017-18 to 0.309 in 2022-23. Gini coefficients for ST, SC, OBC, and General categories also saw reductions, indicating a slight improvement in the equitable distribution of consumption within these communities.

    • Economic Disparities Among Social Groups: The bottom 20% decile experienced a decrease in consumption levels for ST, SC, and OBC groups, although marginally. The General category saw a more pronounced decrease in consumption levels among the poorest segment, highlighting a relative decline in consumption among this group.
    • Concentration of Wealth in Higher Deciles: Consumption has increased for all social groups in the top 20% decile. The General category experienced a significant 10% points surge in consumption between 2017-18 and 2022-23, implying a potential concentration of wealth among high-caste elites and persistent economic disparities.

    Efforts to Augment Income Generation Abilities:

    • Targeted Policies:
      • Reservation: Affirmative action programs to improve opportunities for SCs, STs, and OBCs.
      • Rural Development Initiatives: Policies aimed at enhancing infrastructure, education, and healthcare in rural areas.
      • Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT): Financial aid is directly transferred to beneficiaries to ensure they receive the intended benefits without middlemen.
    • Focus on Lower Deciles: Emphasis on increasing income generation and consumption abilities, particularly within the lower deciles of SC, ST, and OBC communities—the importance of fostering social harmony and economic stability through equitable income distribution.
    • Monitoring and Intervention: Continuous monitoring of consumption trends and economic disparities. They are implementing targeted interventions addressing the specific socio-economic challenges faced by different groups to ensure sustained progress towards economic equity.

    Way forward:

    • Strengthen and Expand Affirmative Action Programs: Enhance and rigorously implement affirmative action policies such as reservations in education and employment for SCs, STs, and OBCs. This should include increasing access to quality education, vocational training, and skill development programs to empower these communities economically and socially. 
    • Promote Inclusive Economic Development Initiatives: Implement comprehensive rural development initiatives that focus on improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education in marginalized areas.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What are the main factors responsible for gender inequality in India? Discuss the contribution of Savitribai Phule in this regard.(UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    Who is the Pro-Tem Speaker of Lok Sabha and how is an MP chosen for the role?

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

    Why in the News?

    • The 18th Lok Sabha will convene its first session very soon. A new Speaker of the House will be elected during this session.
      • Until the election of the new Speaker, a pro-tem Speaker will be appointed to administer the oath to the new Members of Parliament.

    Who is a Pro-tem Speaker?

    • The Speaker of the Lok Sabha oversees the day-to-day proceedings of the House.
    • According to Article 94 of the Indian Constitution, the outgoing Speaker continues in office until the first meeting of the new Lok Sabha.
    • A pro-tem Speaker is appointed temporarily to manage certain duties until the new Speaker is elected.
    • The Constitution does NOT mention explicitly about the post.
      • However, the ‘Handbook on the Working of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs provides guidelines on the appointment and duties of the Speaker pro-tem.
    • Functions:
      • The primary duty of the pro-tem Speaker is to administer oaths to the new MPs, as mandated by Article 99 of the Constitution.

    Appointment of the Pro-tem Speaker

    • When the Speaker’s post is vacant before the new Lok Sabha convenes, the PRESIDENT appoints a Member of the House as the Speaker pro-tem.
      • The President administers the oath to the Speaker pro-tem at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
    • Generally, three other elected members of the Lok Sabha are also appointed by the President to assist in the oath-taking process.
    • The SENIORMOST members, in terms of years of service, are usually chosen for this role, though there can be exceptions.

    Process of Administering Oaths

    • The Legislative I Section of the Government of India prepares a list of the seniormost Lok Sabha members after the formation of the new government.
    • This list is submitted to the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs or the Prime Minister, who identifies the Speaker pro-tem and the three other members for oath-taking.
    • After the Prime Minister’s approval, the consent of the selected members is obtained by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, usually over the telephone.
    • The Minister then submits a note to the President seeking approval for the appointments and the date and time for the swearing-in ceremony.
    • Upon the President’s approval, the Ministry informs the Speaker pro-tem and the other members about their appointments.
    • The Speaker pro-tem then administers the oath to the other three members in the Lok Sabha.

    PYQ:

    [2024] With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements :

    While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration

    1. He/She shall not preside.
    2. He/She shall not have the right to speak.
    3. He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Indian Navy Updates

    [pib] INS Sunayna in Port Victoria, Seychelles

    PIB | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Why in the News?

    • INS Sunayna, an Offshore Patrol Vessel based at Southern Naval Command, entered Port Victoria, Seychelles.
      • The ship will undertake joint EEZ surveillance with the Seychelles Coast Guard during the deployment.
      • The visit is aimed at further strengthening mutual cooperation in line with the vision of SAGAR (Security & Growth for All in the Region).

    About INS Sunayna

    • INS Sunayna is the second Saryu-class patrol vessel of the Indian Navy launched in 2009.
    • It was designed and constructed indigenously by the Goa Shipyard Limited.
    • It is designed to undertake fleet support operations, coastal and offshore patrolling, ocean surveillance and monitoring of sea lines of communications and offshore assets and escort duties.

    Key operations undertaken

    • In June 2018 she was deployed to Yemen’s Socotra Island as part of “Operation Nistar“, an HADR mission to evacuate around 38 stranded Indian nationals in/around Socotra after a cyclone hit the area.
    • INS Sunayna, along with INS Chennai, was sent to the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman in June 2019 to protect Indian shipping interests amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

    Back2Basics: SAGAR Strategy

    • SAGAR stands for “Security and Growth for All in the Region.”
    • It is a strategic policy framework initiated by India in 2015, designed to enhance its engagement with countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and neighbouring islands.

    The primary objectives of SAGAR include:

    1. Security: Ensuring the safety and protection of India’s land and maritime territories, as well as its national interests in the IOR.
    2. Economic Growth: Promoting sustainable economic growth and development through collaborative efforts with IOR littoral states. This includes initiatives in marine biotechnology, ocean mineral resources, sustainable fishing practices, and ocean energy.
    3. Disaster Management: Facilitating collective action and providing assistance to IOR countries during natural disasters, thereby fostering regional cooperation and goodwill.
    4. Sustainable Development: Supporting initiatives for sustainable regional development, including marine research, eco-friendly industrial technologies, and the conservation of the maritime environment.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security.

    [2017] Consider the following in respect of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

    1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

    2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • G20 : Economic Cooperation ahead

    In news: G-7 Outreach Summit Apulia, Italy 

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

    Why in the News?

    • PM Modi was placed at centre stage for a group photograph at the G-7 Outreach Summit held in Italy.
      • This marks India’s 11th participation in the G7 Summit and PM Modi’s fifth consecutive attendance.

    About G-7 (Group of Seven)

    • The G7 is an informal bloc of industrialized democracies comprising the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom (UK).
    • It convenes annually to address global economic governance, international security, and more recently, issues related to artificial intelligence (AI).
    • Formation and Expansion:
      • Originally formed as the Group of Six in 1975 by the United States, France, Italy, Japan, the UK, and West Germany, with Canada joining in 1976.
      • It was formed as a result of the oil crisis to stabilize global economic policies and international relations.
      • The group’s formation coincided with the challenges of the Cold War era, aiming to address economic concerns such as inflation and recession exacerbated by the OPEC oil embargo.
    • Key statistics about G7 countries:
      • Wealth: They control 60% of the global net wealth.
      • Growth: They drive 46% of the global GDP.
      • Population: They represent 10% of the world’s population.

    Russia’s Joining and Suspension

    • Russia joined in 1998, transforming it into the G8, aimed at enhancing its international prestige and fostering closer ties with Western nations.
    • Russia was suspended in 2014 following its annexation of Crimea, leading to ongoing tensions and challenges with both Russia and increasingly, China.

    Functioning of the G7

    • Unlike formal institutions like the United Nations or NATO, the G7 lacks a charter and secretariat.
    • Its presidency rotates annually (Canada in 2025), responsible for setting the agenda and logistical arrangements for the summit.
    • Policy initiatives are crafted by ministers and envoys known as Sherpas, who prepare discussions and agreements before the annual gathering.
    • Non-member countries are occasionally invited to participate in G7 meetings.

    Why G7 needs India?

    • Economic Significance and Democratic Stability: India’s regular participation in G7 meetings highlights its economic importance and stable democratic framework.
    • Rising Economic Power: With India poised to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, its involvement in global issues is increasingly crucial.
    • Leadership in the Global South: Modi’s initiatives, such as the Voice of the Global South Summit, have bolstered India’s global standing.
    • G20 Presidency: India’s recent presidency of the G20 demonstrated its ability to build consensus on contentious global issues.
    • Neutrality and Strategic Partnerships: India’s neutral stance on Western concerns over China’s actions in the South China Sea and its economic policies enhances its partnership with G7 nations.
    • Balancing with Russia and the West: As the West confronts Russia over Ukraine, India’s neutral stance positions it as a key ally while maintaining diplomatic balance.

    Divergence within G7

    • Geopolitical Tensions: The G7 nations often face disagreements and tensions over geopolitical matters, such as responses to Russian aggression, conflicts in regions like Ukraine, and strategic alliances with emerging economies.
    • Economic Policies: Economic policies and trade relations are frequent topics of debate within the G7. Issues include trade tariffs, market regulations, financial stability, and economic cooperation in the face of global economic challenges.
    • Climate Change: Addressing climate change and achieving environmental sustainability are critical concerns for the G7. Discussions typically focus on climate action commitments, renewable energy investments, and international cooperation on climate policies.
    • Security and Defense: Security and defence cooperation, including responses to global terrorism, cybersecurity threats, and military alliances, are important agenda items for the G7.
    • Technology and Innovation: Managing technological advancements, including AI regulation, digital governance, cybersecurity standards, and technological innovation policies, is another area of focus.
    • Social Issues: Social issues such as gender equality, human rights, immigration policies, and global development aid are also part of the G7 agenda, reflecting broader societal concerns and international commitments.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In which one of the following groups are all four countries members of G20?

    (a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey

    (b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand

    (c) Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam

    (d) Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Elephants have names for each other: New study

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

    Why in the News?

    • Recent studies utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools have revealed that elephants possess unique names used to address each other, placing them among the select animals with this ability.
      • Unlike animals such as parrots and dolphins, elephants do not imitate the calls of those they address, resembling humans in this communicative trait.

    Naming Behavior in Elephants

    • Unlike humans, elephants do not mimic the calls of the addressee, setting their communication apart from other animals.
    • Published in Nature, the study titled ‘African elephants address one another with individually specific name-like calls’ involved researchers from institutions like Colorado State University and Save The Elephants.

    Study Methodology

    • Communication Methods: Contrary to popular belief, elephants predominantly communicate through low-pitched rumbles rather than trumpets, which are primarily emotional expressions.
    • Data Analysis: Researchers analyzed recordings of wild female African savannah elephants and their offspring’s rumbles across various Kenyan national parks spanning from 1986 to 2022.
    • AI Application: Using AI technology, they scrutinized 469 recorded rumbles to detect patterns indicating specific recipients of the communication.
      • Success Rate: The AI model successfully identified the intended elephant recipient in 27.5% of cases, surpassing chance levels.

    Observations

    • Behavioural Observation: To validate their findings, researchers played back recorded rumbles to 17 elephants and noted heightened reactions when elephants heard their ‘names’, indicating recognition of individual names.
    • Unique Communication: Unlike animals that imitate others’ calls, elephants display no evidence of imitation, suggesting a unique communication strategy.

    Significance of the Study

    • Sophisticated Communication: The study underscores elephants’ advanced communication abilities, challenging previous assumptions about their cognitive prowess.
    • Human-Elephant Parallels: It draws parallels between human and elephant communication, fostering greater admiration for elephants and potentially mitigating human-elephant conflicts crucial for conservation efforts.
    • Future Research: Further investigation is warranted to pinpoint the exact location of elephant names within rumbles and explore whether elephants assign names to objects besides individuals.

    Back2Basics: Elephants in India

    Details
    Population Estimate
    • India hosts the largest population of wild Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus), with around 29,964 individuals,
    • Approximately 60% of the global population (2017 census).
    Leading States Karnataka holds the highest number of elephants, followed by Assam and Kerala.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List:  Endangered.
    • CMS: Appendix I.
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I,
    • CITES: Appendix I.
    Conservation Initiatives
    • ‘Project Elephant’ was launched in 1992, covering 23 states across India.
      • This project contributed to the increase in the wild elephant population from around 25,000 in 1992 to about 30,000 in 2021.
    • Establishment of Elephant Reserves. Total 33 in numbers covering approximately 80,777 Sq.km.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:

    1. The leader of an elephant group is a female.
    2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
    3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
    4. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

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  • Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

    The last continent must remain a pristine wilderness

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

    Why in the news?

    The 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM-46), held in Kochi, Kerala last month, brought attention to the ongoing debate regarding Antarctic tourism.

    Highlights of the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM-46) in Kerala

    • Focus on Developing a Regulatory Framework: ATCM-46 emphasized the need for a comprehensive, flexible, and dynamic framework for regulating tourism and non-governmental activities in Antarctica. A new working group was established to lead this effort over the next year, highlighting a renewed commitment to addressing tourism challenges in the region.
    • Recognition of Environmental Concerns: The meeting acknowledged the significant environmental impacts of increasing tourism, including disruptions to wildlife, ecosystem damage, and pollution. There was a consensus on the urgency of mitigating these impacts through stronger regulatory measures and enhanced monitoring programs.
    • India’s Proactive Stance: India played a crucial role in emphasizing the importance of monitoring tourism impacts on Antarctic research, conservation, and the environment. India supported measures against constructing tourism-related structures with significant environmental impacts and showcased its commitment by enacting its own Antarctic Law in 2022 to regulate activities and protect the Antarctic environment.

    Gaps in the Regulatory Framework

    • Lack of Specific Regulations: The current governance framework for Antarctic tourism is fragmented and lacks specific regulations. The Antarctic Treaty (1961) prioritises peaceful use and scientific research, while the Madrid Protocol offers broad environmental guidelines but lacks detailed tourism regulations.
    • Self-Regulation by IAATO: The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), a self-regulatory industry body, is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of tourism. Many believe that IAATO’s guidelines are inadequate to address the growing environmental pressures.
    • Consensus Rule Limitations: The requirement for unanimous agreement from all consultative parties often slows down decision-making and allows national interests to impede progress. This has resulted in non-binding guidelines rather than comprehensive regulation.
    • Failed to make consensus on tourism: Discussions on tourism regulation have been ongoing since the 1960s. A proposed tourism annexe in 1991 failed to gain consensus, leading to the current reliance on IAATO’s self-regulation. Despite the increasing frequency of discussions since a 2004 expert meeting, comprehensive regulation has remained elusive.

    India’s Stand on Tourism Issues

    • Emphasis on Monitoring: India has consistently emphasised the importance of monitoring the impacts of tourism on Antarctic research, conservation, and the environment. This was highlighted at ATCM 44 (2022) and reinforced at ATCM-46.
    • Opposition to Environmental Impact: India supported Resolution 5 (2022), which advised against building tourism-related structures with significant environmental impacts. This stance reflects India’s commitment to minimising the environmental footprint of tourism in Antarctica.
    • Call for Comprehensive Debate: Between ATCM 44 and ATCM 45, India continued to call for a comprehensive debate on Antarctic tourism, stressing the need for governance action.
    • Enactment of Antarctic Law: Despite the lack of international consensus, India took proactive steps by enacting its own Antarctic Law in 2022. This law aims to regulate activities and safeguard the Antarctic environment from the impacts of tourism.
    • Focus on Sustainable Future: At ATCM-46, India advocated for a multi-pronged approach to ensure a sustainable future for Antarctic tourism. This includes strengthening environmental protection, implementing robust monitoring programs, and fostering international cooperation to preserve Antarctica’s pristine wilderness.

    Conclusion: Countries need to work together to create a robust international regulatory framework that addresses the unique challenges of Antarctic tourism. This involves building on the efforts initiated at ATCM-46 and ensuring that the newly established working group develops comprehensive, binding regulations that all parties can agree upon and implement.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching the limits of econological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate.(UPSC IAS/2015)

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    World Crocodile Day 2024: In 50th year of India’s saurian conservation 

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

    Why in the news?

    The successful Crocodile Conservation Project in Bhitarkanika National Park is escalating the human-crocodile conflicts affecting local communities.

    About the Crocodile Conservation Project

    • Launch and Objective: The Crocodile Conservation Project was launched in 1975 in Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha. The main objective was to protect the crocodiles’ natural habitat and revive the population through captive breeding due to the low survival rate of hatchlings in nature.
    • Historical Context: Initiated barely three years after the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The project was launched due to the threat of extinction from indiscriminate killing for commercial purposes and severe habitat loss.
    • Implementation and Success: Centers for breeding and rearing saltwater crocodiles, muggers, and gharials were started in 34 locations across various states in India under the guidance of HR Bustard. The project in Bhitarkanika, started by Sudhakar Kar and HR Bustard, has been the most successful, increasing the population from 95 in 1975 to 1,811 in the latest reptile census.
    • Ongoing Efforts: Sudhakar Kar continues to provide technical expertise and methodology for the annual census of saltwater crocodiles even after retirement. Conservation of crocodiles is described as a lifelong mission by Kar.

    IUCN Status of Crocodiles of India

    • The three crocodiles of India, the Saltwater Crocodile, Mugger Crocodile, and Gharial, are listed as Least Concern, Vulnerable, and Critically Endangered respectively on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

    Bhitarkanika National Park 

    • Bhitarkanika National Park is a 145 km² (56 sq mi) protected area in Odisha, eastern India. It was designated as a national park in 1998 and obtained the status of a Ramsar site in 2002.
    • The park is known for its unique mangrove ecosystem, which is the second largest in India. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered saltwater crocodile, Indian python, king cobra, black ibis, and darters.

    About the Issues Faced by Bhitarkanika

    • Human-Crocodile Conflict: The increasing crocodile population has led to rising human-crocodile conflicts. Sudhakar Kar expressed concern over the conflicts, warning locals to avoid entering rivers, creeks, and waterbodies inhabited by estuarine crocodiles.
    • Impact on Local Communities: Conflicts have led to 50 deaths since 2014. Local villagers have criticized politicians for not addressing the safety issues adequately, affecting political outcomes.
    • Preventive Measures: Forest officials have erected barricades around 120 river ghats in and around Bhitarkanika to prevent crocodile attacks on humans.
    • Political Implications: The human-crocodile conflict has influenced local political dynamics, with villagers expressing dissatisfaction with incumbents over safety concerns related to crocodile attacks.

    Conclusion: Construct and maintain more robust protective barriers around water bodies, such as reinforced barricades and secure river ghats. Additionally, create safe, designated areas for water-related activities to minimize the risk of crocodile attacks.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in the conservation of flora and fauna? (UPSC IAS/2018)

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

    An Ageing India: The Magnitude and the Multitude 

    Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society

    Why in the News?

    The phenomenon of ageing stands out as one of the most significant developments of this century, characterized by notable advancements in human longevity alongside historically low reproduction rates.

    About the Magnitude and Multiplication of the aged population

    • The magnitude of Aging Population: The 21st century is witnessing a significant demographic shift marked by a notable increase in human longevity.
      • Improved healthcare and living conditions have contributed to a rise in life expectancy, leading to a larger elderly population. By mid-century, India is projected to have around 319 million elderly people, growing at a rate of approximately 3% annually.
    • Multiplication of Aging Phenomenon: Despite longevity gains, there is a simultaneous decline in fertility rates, leading to an ageing population with a lower proportion of younger generations.
      • This demographic shift poses challenges related to healthcare, social security, and economic sustainability. The elderly population is becoming increasingly feminized, with a higher prevalence of elderly women due to longer life expectancy and higher widowhood rates.

    Aged Population as per the 2011 Census:

    • According to the 2011 Census of India, the population of people aged 60 and older in India was 104 million, which is 8.6% of the total population. This is an increase from 5.6% in 1961.
    • The census also found that 53 million of the elderly population were female and 51 million were male, with a sex ratio of 1033. 71% of the elderly population lived in rural areas and 29% lived in urban areas. Additionally, 5.18% of the elderly population, or 53,76,619 people, had some disability

    Issues and Challenges

    • Vulnerabilities of the Elderly: Many elderly individuals in India face significant vulnerabilities, including limitations in activities of daily living (ADL), multi-morbidity, poverty, and lack of financial security.
      • A substantial proportion of the elderly report poor health conditions, with a high prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
      • Mental health issues, particularly depression, are also prevalent among the elderly population.
    • Social and Economic Insecurities: Food insecurity affects a notable percentage of the elderly, with reports of reduced portions or skipped meals due to economic constraints.
    • Lack of legal protection: Awareness and access to welfare measures and legal protections for the elderly are low, with limited knowledge about schemes like IGNOAPS, IGNWPS, and Annapurna.
    • Abuse and Neglect: Elder abuse is a significant concern, especially for elderly women in rural areas who often experience neglect and mistreatment within their families and communities.
      • Social exclusion and limited opportunities for productive engagement exacerbate feelings of insecurity and marginalization among the elderly.

    Way Forward:

    • Enhancing Social Support and Welfare Measures: Strengthening awareness and accessibility of welfare schemes and legal protections for the elderly. Implementing social security measures to ensure financial stability and improve quality of life for ageing populations.
    • Healthcare and Mental Well-being: Prioritizing healthcare interventions tailored to the needs of the elderly, including preventive measures against chronic diseases and mental health support. Promoting healthy ageing through lifestyle interventions and healthcare policies that address the unique challenges of an ageing population.
    • Empowerment and Social Inclusion: Fostering social inclusion through community engagement and initiatives that empower the elderly to contribute actively to society. Developing innovative institutional frameworks that value the elderly as assets and promote their participation in societal development.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q. Critically examine the effects of globalization on the aged population in India. (UPSC IAS/2013)

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  • Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

    EU Environmental Council adopts nature restoration law in historic win for continent’s environment

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

    Why in the news?

    On June 17, 2024, the EU Environmental Council approved the Nature Restoration Law (NRL), marking a significant victory for environmental conservation across the continent.

    Nature Restoration Law (NRL):

    • Objective and Scope: The NRL aims to restore and preserve biodiversity and ecosystem health across Europe. It targets a wide range of habitats including terrestrial, coastal, freshwater, forest, agricultural, and urban areas. Specific ecosystems such as wetlands, grasslands, forests, rivers, lakes, and marine environments like seagrass beds and coral reefs are covered.
    • Targets and Timelines: Member states are required to restore at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030. This includes all ecosystems identified as in need of restoration. The law sets a longer-term goal for the complete restoration of all degraded ecosystems in Europe by 2050.

    About the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030

    Objective:

    • The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 aims to halt biodiversity loss and restore ecosystems across Europe. It sets ambitious targets to ensure that biodiversity is conserved, valued, and restored for its intrinsic value and for the benefits it provides to people and the planet.

    Targets and Actions:

    • The strategy includes specific targets for 2030, such as protecting at least 30% of EU land and sea areas, with 10% under strict protection, restoring degraded ecosystems, and integrating biodiversity considerations into agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and urban planning.
    • It emphasizes the importance of promoting green infrastructure, sustainable land use, and enhancing ecosystem services to support biodiversity.

    Policy Instruments and Implementation:

    • The strategy integrates biodiversity considerations into key EU policies and sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, forestry, climate action, and regional development.
    • It encourages the use of innovative financing mechanisms, partnerships with stakeholders, and international cooperation to achieve its goals.

    Monitoring and Review:

    • The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 includes a robust monitoring framework to track progress towards its targets and assess the effectiveness of actions taken.
    • Regular reviews and updates are planned to ensure that the strategy remains relevant and adaptive to new challenges and scientific knowledge..

    Challenges in Nature Restoration Law (NRL)

    • Implementation Complexity: One of the primary challenges is the complexity of implementing the NRL across diverse ecosystems and landscapes within EU member states. Each country may have varying capacities, resources, and existing environmental conditions, making uniform implementation challenging.
    • Cost and Funding Requirements: Restoring 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030 requires significant financial resources. The NRL involves costs related to restoration projects, monitoring, enforcement, and stakeholder engagement. Securing adequate funding and ensuring sustained financial support over the long term is crucial but challenging.

    Conclusion: Create dedicated funding mechanisms or expand existing EU funds specifically for biodiversity restoration under the NRL. This could include grants, subsidies, and low-interest loans tailored to support restoration projects across member states.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Environmental Impact Assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before a project is cleared by the Government. Discuss the environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads. (UPSC IAS/2014)

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