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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Data for better education, a brighter future for students

    op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Social Empowerment

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q National Education Policy 2020 isin conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement.(UPSC IAS/2020)

    Q The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss.(UPSC IAS/2015)

    Mentore comment: The release of the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023 in mid-January has once again drawn significant attention, following a tradition dating back to 2005, with exceptions during the COVID-19 years. Among the multitude of insights provided by the report, particular focus has been placed on the foundational skills of 14-18 year olds, which has garnered headlines. While the learning outcomes data raises concerns, it is imperative for practitioners and policymakers to delve deeper into the data to extract actionable insights aimed at enhancing education and overall outcomes for India’s adolescents and youth.

    Why in the news? 

     The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023 was released in mid-January this year.

     Foundational learning trajectories as per ASER 2023 Beyond Basics survey  

    • District level Representation: The survey was conducted in 28 rural districts across 26 states, providing insights into the activities, abilities, and aspirations of 14-18 year olds at the district level, though not nationally representative.
    • Literacy : Overall, 26% of 14-18 year olds cannot read a standard two level text in their regional language, reflecting concerning literacy levels.  
    • Distribution of Children without Basic Reading Skills: Among 14-18 year olds without basic reading skills, 57% are enrolled in standard 10 or below, while 28% are not enrolled in any educational institution. This suggests a need for targeted interventions and efforts to encourage school attendance.

    Challenges in Reading Improvement: 

    • Many children who struggle with reading may face ridicule and embarrassment, leading to disengagement with reading. The availability of reading materials, including beyond textbooks, is crucial for developing reading habits and abilities.

    Children and careers

    • Educational Aspirations: More than 60% of surveyed adolescents aim to obtain a college education, with a higher percentage of girls aspiring for higher education compared to boys.
    • Work Aspirations: One in five respondents had not seriously considered their future careers. Among those who had, joining the police or defense forces was prominent for boys, while becoming a teacher or doctor was prominent for girls.
    • Perceptions of Vocational Education: Vocational education faced negative perceptions in some areas, seen as a fallback option for those unable to secure white-collar jobs. However, in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, context-driven vocational courses such as tourism and hotel management gained aspirational value, encouraging students to aspire for related professions with the support of on-the-job training and readily available career information.

    Challenges related to careers 

    • Need for Support and Mentorship: Youth require support, mentorship, and inspiration to evaluate their aspirations, identify alternative prospects, and prepare for their chosen paths.
    • Lack of Familiarity with Professions: Nearly half of the surveyed adolescents with work aspirations do not personally know anyone working in their desired profession, indicating a need for greater exposure and guidance.

     Digita literacy as per ASER 2023 report

    • Smartphone Ownership: Boys in the 14-18 age group are more than twice as likely to own smartphones compared to girls, with 43.7% of males owning smartphones compared to 19.8% of females
    • Digital Literacy: Girls are less likely to know how to use smartphones or computers compared to boys, with males outperforming females in tasks like using email, Google Maps, and other digital functions
    • Educational Usage: While about two-thirds of youth use smartphones for educational purposes, there is a notable emphasis on entertainment and social media over educational activities, indicating a need to leverage digital technology for educational purposes
    • Gender Gaps: The gender gap extends to online safety awareness, with boys being more familiar with safety settings than girls, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address the digital gender divide

    Suggestive measures to address the identified issues:

    • Improving Foundational Learning: Encourage school attendance by addressing the needs of 14-18 year olds without basic reading skills, with a particular emphasis on those not enrolled in any educational institution.
    • Role of Community Libraries: Ensure effective management of community libraries and engage committed individuals to cultivate a culture of reading and support readers of all ages and abilities.
    • Educational and Career Aspirations: Address the lack of familiarity with professions by offering exposure opportunities and guidance to help youth make informed career choices.
    • Digital Literacy and Gender Gaps:  Promote educational usage of smartphones by leveraging digital technology for educational purposes and bridging the gender gap in online safety awareness.
    • Addressing Vocational Education Perceptions: Encourage context-driven vocational courses that align with local aspirations and provide on-the-job training and career information to support career choices.

    Conclusion 

    To address literacy and career challenges, prioritize targeted interventions to improve educational access and support, enhance digital literacy among girls, promote vocational education, and leverage digital technology for educational purposes, bridging gender gaps.

     

     

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  • Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

    What is Doxxing and what can you do if it happens to you?

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security

    Why in the news?

    In mid-February, a woman reported an incident of doxxing to Mumbai Police after a man shared a video of her dancing and subjected her to harassment online.

    What is Doxxing?

    • Doxxing involves publicly disclosing an individual’s private information without consent, including personal details like addresses, phone numbers, and more.
    • It can lead to severe consequences, including physical, digital, and emotional harm, such as stalking, threats, and loss of privacy.

    Legality and Intentions

    • While sharing public content may be legal, the intentions behind sharing such content can be malicious and harmful.
    • Social media platforms like X take action against users who share information with abusive intent or to harass others.

    Consequences of Doxxing

    • Victims of doxxing may face numerous challenges, including securing their physical location, clarifying situations with employers, and dealing with a barrage of threats.
    • Security measures such as changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and reporting incidents to social media platforms are crucial for safeguarding against doxxing.

    Legal Remedy Against Doxxing

    • Victims of doxxing can report incidents through platforms like the:
    1. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and
    2. File FIRs (with law enforcement authorities).
    • Social media companies like Meta and Google have tools and mechanisms in place to assist individuals who have been doxxed.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?

    1.    Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer

    2.    Cost of a new computer if some miscreant willfully damages it, if proved so

    3.    Cost of hiring a specialized consultant to minimize the loss in case of cyber extortion

    4.    Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third-party files a suit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

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  • Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

    India ranks number 10 in World Cybercrime Index

    IOCR | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security

    Why in the news?

    A new research effort, the ‘World Cybercrime Index,’ sheds light on the global cybercrime scenario, ranking India in the 10th position worldwide.

    About the World Cybercrime Index

    • The World Cybercrime Index has been developed as a joint partnership between the University of Oxford and University of New South Wales, Sydney.
    • It has been funded by CRIMGOV, a European Union-supported project.
    • The index was developed to identify major cybercrime hotspots globally by ranking countries based on the significant sources of cybercrime at a national level.
    • The study ‘Mapping the global geography of cybercrime with the World Cybercrime Index’ has been published in the journal PLOS ONE.

    The five major categories of cybercrime assessed by the study were:

    1. Technical products/services (e.g. malware coding, botnet access, access to compromised systems, tool production).
    2. Attacks and extortion (e.g. denial-of-service attacks, ransomware).
    3. Data/identity theft (e.g. hacking, phishing, account compromises, credit card comprises).
    4. Scams (e.g. advance fee fraud, business email compromise, online auction fraud).
    5. Cashing out/money laundering (e.g. credit card fraud, money mules, illicit virtual currency platforms).

    Key Findings of the Report

    • India occupies the 10th position in the cybercrime rankings, with scams involving advance fee payments being the most prevalent type.
    • Russia leads the index, followed by Ukraine, China, the US, Nigeria, and Romania, with North Korea, the UK, and Brazil rounding out the top positions.
    • Russia and Ukraine emerged as highly technical cybercrime hubs, while Nigerian cybercriminals primarily engaged in less technical forms of cybercrime.

    PYQ:

    [2018] The terms ‘Wanna Cry, Petya and Eternal Blue’ sometimes mentioned in the news recently are related to:

    (a) Exo-planets

    (b) Crypto-currency

    (c) Cyber attacks

    (d) Mini-satellites

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  • Corruption Challenges – Lokpal, POCA, etc

    Adjudication Process under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2:

    Why in the news?

    • The Adjudicating Authority under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) has confirmed the attachment of assets worth Rs 751.9 crore linked to a politician family.
    • The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had provisionally attached these properties in PMLA case.

    About Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002

    Details
    Precursor Enacted to fulfill India’s global commitments to combat money laundering, aligning with international conventions such as:

    1. UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic; Substances 1988;
    2. Basle Statement of Principles, 1989;
    3. Financial Action Task Force’s Forty Recommendations, 1990;
    4. UN General Assembly’s Political Declaration and Global Program of Action, 1990.
    What is it?
    • Criminal law targeting money laundering and property confiscation from illicit activities.
    • Central to India’s anti-money laundering legal framework.
    • Applicable to financial institutions, banks (including RBI), mutual funds, insurance companies, and their intermediaries.
    Amendments Amended in the year 2005, 2009 and 2012.
    Objectives
    • Confiscate proceeds of crime involved in money laundering.
    • Establish legal mechanisms to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.
    • Strengthen investigation and prosecution of money laundering offenses.
    • Enhance international cooperation in combating money laundering.
    Regulating Authorities
    1. Directorate of Enforcement (ED) enforces PMLA provisions and investigates money laundering cases.
    2. Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) receives, processes, analyses and disseminates information related to suspect financial transactions.
    Salient Features
    • Punishment and Jail Term: Provides rigorous imprisonment from 3 to 7 years for money laundering, extendable up to 10 years.
    • Powers of Attachment: Director or officer above Deputy Director rank can provisionally attach suspected “proceeds of crime” property.
    • Adjudicating Authority: Appointed by the central government to determine involvement of attached or seized property in money laundering.
    • Presumption in Inter-Connected Transactions: Transactions are presumed interconnected in money laundering cases.
    • Burden of Proof: Accused must prove alleged proceeds of crime are lawful.
    • Appellate Tribunal: Empowered to hear appeals against Adjudicating Authority and other orders under the Act.
    • Special Court Establishment: Ensures expedited trials.

     

    In news: Adjudicating Authority under PMLA

    • The ED, empowered by Section 5 of the PMLA, provisionally attaches assets suspected to be acquired through criminal proceeds.
    • These provisional orders, valid for 180 days, require confirmation by the Adjudicating Authority within the stipulated period to maintain legal validity.
    1. Role of the Adjudicating Authority:
    • The Adjudicating Authority, appointed by the central government, reviews the attachment orders to ensure compliance with legal standards and procedural requirements.
    • Failure to confirm the attachment within the prescribed timeline results in automatic release of the attached property.
    1. Legal Ramifications Post-Confirmation:
    • Once confirmed, the accused retains the right to challenge the order within 45 days at the PMLA’s Appellate Tribunal.
    • If the order is upheld, the accused may pursue further legal avenues, while the attached property remains inaccessible until the conclusion of legal proceedings.
    1. Impact on Property Owners and Enforcement Agencies:
    • Confirmed attachments may lead to the ED taking possession of residential properties, compelling owners to evacuate.
    • Attached properties, including vehicles, may deteriorate over time as legal battles prolong, with significant financial implications for both parties.

    PYQ:

     

    [2013] Money laundering poses a serious security threat to a country’s economic sovereignty. What is its significance for India and what steps are required to be taken to control this menace?

     

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1.    The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) has a ‘Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air’.

    2.    The UNCAC is the ever-first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument.

    3.    A highlight of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at returning assets to their rightful owners from whom they had been taken illicitly.

    4.    The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by its member States to assist in the implementation of both UNCAC and UNTOC.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

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  • Global Geological And Climatic Events

    Mount Etna’s Volcanic Vortex Rings: A Rare Natural Phenomenon

    World Mapping | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Mt. Etna

    Why in the news?

    Mount Etna, located on the east coast of Sicily in Italy recently gained attention for emitting circular rings of vapor from its summit, known as volcanic vortex rings.

    About Mount Etna

    • Mount Etna is located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy.
    • It is an active stratovolcano, characterized by its conical shape formed by layers of hardened lava, ash, and volcanic rocks.
    • It is Europe’s tallest active volcano, standing at approximately 3,329 meters (10,922 feet) above sea level.
    • It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and has been erupting for thousands of years, with the first recorded eruption dating back to around 1500 BCE.
    • Mount Etna and its surrounding area have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013, recognizing its geological significance and natural beauty.
    • It boasts five craters responsible for eruptions, alongside numerous vents along its slopes.

    What are Volcanic Vortex Rings?

    • Volcanic vortex rings are a rare phenomenon observed when gas, primarily water vapor, is rapidly released through a vent in the volcano’s crater, forming circular rings of smoke above the mountain.
    • This phenomenon, similar to smoke rings blown by cigarette smokers, occurs when gas is expelled through a nearly perfect circular vent in the crater.
    • These rings can rise in the air for up to 10 minutes but may disintegrate quickly under windy conditions.

    Volcanism in Italy

    • The volcanism of Italy is due chiefly to the presence, a short distance to the south, of the boundary between the Eurasian Plate and the African Plate.
    • Italy is a volcanically active country, containing the only active volcanoes in mainland Europe (while volcanic islands are also present in Greece, in the volcanic arc of the southern Aegean).
    • The lava erupted by Italy’s volcanoes is thought to result from the subduction and melting of one plate below another.
    • Other active volcanoes include Mt. Stromboli and Vesuvius.

    Historical and Recent Observations

    • Etna produces more vapor rings than any other volcano on Earth, making it a hotspot for studying this phenomenon.
    • The occurrence of volcanic vortex rings was first documented in 1724 at Mount Etna and Vesuvius in Italy, and has since been observed at various volcanoes worldwide.
    • Recent observations of this phenomenon have been reported at volcanoes in Alaska, Ecuador, Guatemala, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Vanuatu, New Zealand, and Nicaragua.

    Recent Volcanic Eruptions in News:

    Many of the world’s most active volcanoes are concentrated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, encompassing regions like New Zealand, Southeast Asia, Japan, and the western coast of the Americas. This volatile area also experiences about 90% of all earthquakes globally.

    • Kilauea, Hawaii: The Kilauea volcano in Hawaii captivated the world with a nearly nonstop eruption that began in 1983 and continued for an astonishing 35 years until 2018. Remarkably, it rekindled in 2021, with the eruption still ongoing.
    • Dukono, Indonesia: Erupting since August 1933, Dukono volcano in Indonesia stands as a testament to long-term volcanic activity, defying the passage of time.
    • Santa Maria, Guatemala: The eruption of Santa Maria in Guatemala commenced in June 1922 and persists to this day, underscoring the enduring nature of certain volcanic phenomena.
    • Yasur, Vanuatu: Yasur in Vanuatu first erupted around 1270 and has maintained its volcanic activity, continuing as of June 9, 2023.

    Understanding Volcanoes

    • Volcanoes are geological features characterized by openings or vents through which lava, tephra (small rocks), and steam erupt onto the Earth’s surface.
    • They result from both their own eruptions and the broader processes of tectonic plate movement.
    • Volcanic eruptions are essentially the result of magma, or molten rock, beneath the Earth’s surface rising, bubbling, and ultimately overflowing, much like boiling milk spilling out of a pot on a stove.
    • The magma seeks pathways to vents within the volcano, where it erupts and is expelled across the land and into the atmosphere, a phenomenon referred to as lava.

    Appearance Formation Eruption Style Notable Examples
    Cinder Cones Small, steep, conical Formed from basaltic magma with high gas content Often explosive eruptions with cinders/scoria Paricutin (Mexico), Sunset Crater (USA)
    Composite/Stratovolcanoes Tall and symmetrical Result from alternating layers of lava, ash, etc. Both explosive and effusive eruptions Mount St. Helens (USA), Mount Fuji (Japan)
    Shield Volcanoes Broad and gently sloping Primarily formed from basaltic magma Primarily non-explosive with extensive lava flows Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea (Hawaii)
    Lava Domes Rounded dome-like shape Formed from slow extrusion of viscous magma Typically non-explosive but can be dangerous Novarupta Dome (Alaska), Mount St. Helens’ Lava Dome (USA)

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following statements:

    1.    The Barren Island volcano is an active volcano located in the Indian Territory.

    2.    Barren Island lies about 140 km east of Great Nicobar.

    3.    The last time the Barren Island volcano erupted was in 1991 and it has remained inactive since then.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1 and 3

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  • Monsoon Updates

    India, US to reactivate Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS)

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

    Why in the news?

    India and the US have decided to reactivate the Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS).

    What is IndOOS?

    • Established in 2006, the Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS) comprises moored buoys strategically placed across the Indian Ocean.
    • It consists of a network of 36 moored buoys in the high seas to collect high-resolution ocean and atmospheric data for weather forecasts.
    • These buoys measure various parameters like seawater temperature, salinity, ocean currents, atmospheric humidity, and wind speed.
    • IndOOS originally focused on understanding and predicting the monsoon.
    • It now aids in climate modelling under changing climatic conditions and predicts extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and cyclones.

    Objectives of IndOOS include:

    1. The primary objective of IndOOS is to provide continuous and high-quality oceanographic and meteorological data to support informed decision-making and improve scientific understanding of weather and climate.
    2. It aims to foster partnerships among Indian Ocean countries and beyond to enhance long-term monitoring and forecasting capabilities.

    Need for IndOOS

    • The Indian Ocean region, home to nearly one-third of the global population, faces significant vulnerabilities due to climate change and extreme weather events.
    • Fisheries and rain-dependent agriculture in these regions are heavily influenced by the monsoon, making accurate weather forecasts crucial for mitigating potential damage to crops and livelihoods.
    • The Indian Ocean’s influence extends beyond its boundaries, redistributing heat across the planet and modulating the climate in the Pacific, North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea.

    Observing Networks under IndOOS

    • The framework for IndOOS comprises five observing networks:
    1. Research Moored Array for African-Asian-Australian Monsoon Analysis and Prediction (RAMA)
    2. Profiling floats (part of the global Argo array)
    3. Surface drifters (Global Drifter Program, GDP)
    4. Repeat temperature lines (eXpendable Bathy Thermograph (XBT) network)
    5. Tide gauges
    • These networks are complemented by satellite observations of surface wind, sea level, temperature, salinity, rainfall, and ocean color.

    Partnerships and Support:

    • IndOOS originated from discussions among scientists during the First International Conference on the Ocean Observing System for Climate (OceanObs) in 1999.
    • An implementation plan for IndOOS was developed by the Indian Ocean Panel, established under the Climate and Ocean Variability, Predictability, and Change (CLIVAR) and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission – Global Ocean Observing System (IOC-GOOS) programs.

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  • Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

    ADB raises India’s GDP growth forecast for FY25 to 7% from 6.7% earlier

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) increased its GDP growth projection for India for the current fiscal year to 7%, up from its previous estimate of 6.7%.

    Reason behind the increased India’s GDP growth projection by ADB:

    • Manufacturing Sector: The manufacturing sector growth of India in the 2023 fiscal year was robust, with the S&P Global India Manufacturing PMI rebounding to 56.0 in November 2023 from an eight-month low of 55.5 in October 2023.
    • Investment and Consumption Demand: Investment and Consumption demand are both expected to drive India’s economic growth in 2024 and FY25. Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) grew at 3.5% in the December quarter of FY24.
    • Inflation Trend: Inflation in India is expected to continue its downward trend in tandem with global trends Inflation in India decreased to 5.09 percent in February 2024 from 5.10 percent in January 2024. India’s inflation rate is projected to trend around 4.30 percent in 2025, according to econometric models.
    • Monetary policy: The RBI has kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.5% for 2023-24, focusing on withdrawal of accommodation to ensure that inflation progressively aligns to the target while supporting growth.

    Government Initiatives taken for Regional Development:

    • Regional Cooperation and Integration (RCI) Conference, 2023:
        • It was organised by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at Tbilisi, Georgia.
        • Theme: ‘Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Integration through Economic Corridor Development (ECD)’.
        • Objective: To integrate spatial transformation and area-centric approach with the help of Economic Corridor Development.
        • In this Conference, India offered its indigenously developed GIS-based technology though knowledge sharing  to ADB and South Asia Sub-Regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) countries for enhancing socio-economic planning and regional cooperation.
    • PM GatiShakti National Master Plan and Multi-modal Connectivity:
      • Basically, PM Gati Shakti is principled to bring socio-economic area-based development as part of regional connectivity.
      • It is being implemented to enhance connectivity with regional partners with the help of GIS-based technology. For Example: Indo-Nepal Haldia Access Controlled Corridor project.

    BACK2BASIC:

    About Asian Development Bank(ADB):

    • Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members-49 from the region. ADB’s five largest shareholders are Japan and the United States (each with 15.6% of total shares), the People’s Republic of China (6.4%), India (6.3%), and Australia (5.8%).
    • Headquarters: Manila, Philippines.
    • Objective: To foster social and economic development across Asia and the Pacific region.

     

    Conclusion: Indian  government’s effort across the robust manufacturing growth, investment, working on consumption demand, decreasing inflation, and supportive monetary policy, aligning with its goal of promoting regional social and economic development are gaining some fruits.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor.(UPSC IAS/2017) 

    Q India has recently signed to become founding member of New Development Bank (NDB) and also the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). How will the role of the two Banks be different? Discuss the strategic significance of these two Banks for India. (UPSC IAS/2014)

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Crafted in Indian labs, NexCAR19 takes India to next level in Cancer Care

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

    Why in the News? 

    • President Droupadi Murmu launched India’s first indigenously-developed CAR T-cell therapy, hailing it as a major breakthrough against cancer.
    • This therapy was developed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and the Tata Memorial Centre, and it is known as ‘NexCAR19 CAR T-cell therapy’.

    BACK2BASICS:

    What is CAR T cell thearpy? 

    CAR T-cell therapy is a type of immunotherapy that involves modifying a patient’s T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system, to recognize and attack cancer cells. This therapy is designed to target specific proteins found on the surface of cancer cells, such as CD19, which is commonly found on B cells.

    How are CAR-T cells made?

    Significance of CAR T Thearpy:

    • Promising results:  This therapy has shown promising results in treating some types of blood cancers, including certain kinds of lymphoma, pediatric leukemia, and adult leukemia.  It has shown with approximately 70% of patients responding to the treatment.
    • Less time for treatment: CAR T-cell therapies are generally a single infusion with less than 2 weeks of inpatient care, while stem cell transplants and chemotherapy treatment regimens can take months to complete

    Limitiations of CAR-T Therapy:

    • Risks of CAR-T Therapy: The efficacy of CAR-T therapy varies from person to person, and it is too early to declare it a complete cure. While it has shown remarkable progress in challenging cases, its effectiveness is not universal.
    • High Cost Therapy: NexCAR19 is priced at a fraction of its US counterpart, it remains relatively high for many Indians, ranging from ₹40 to 45 lakh.
    • It’s Side Effects includes:
      • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): CRS is the most common side effect of CAR-T therapy, triggering an ‘Inflammatory Response’ that leads to immune system hyperactivity.
      • Neurotoxicity: Although not observed in early-stage clinical trials, neurotoxicity is a common side effect of CAR-T therapy that can manifest as confusion, seizures, or difficulty speaking or walking.
      • Infections and Blood Cell Counts: Patients undergoing CAR-T therapy may experience infections and low blood cell counts as anticipated side effects.

    Conclusion: India’s is moving towards heralding a breakthrough in Cancer Care Therapy. Despite cost challenges, Government efforts are aimed to enhance accessibility and better outputs in Healthcare Sector.

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  • Electoral Reforms In India

    Is Transparency lacking in Candidate Disclosure?

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Representation Of People’s Act

    Why in the news? 

    The Supreme Court held that candidates need not to disclose every piece of Information and Possession in their Election Affidavit unless it is Substantial in Nature.

    What are the Legal Provisions?

    • Nomination paper with Affidavit: Section 33 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) read with rule 4A of election rules, requires every contesting candidate to file their nomination paper for elections along with an Affidavit in a ‘prescribed format’.
    • Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) Vs Union of India (2002): The Supreme Court held that voters have the right to know about the criminal antecedents, income and asset details of the candidate and his/her dependants and educational qualification of contesting candidates.
      • This judgement resulted in Section 33A being added to the RP Act that requires details of criminal antecedents to be part of the election affidavit.
    • Punishable Offence: Section 125A of the RP Act further provides that failure to furnish required information, giving false information or concealing any information in the nomination paper or affidavit shall be punishable with imprisonment up to six months or fine or both.

    Present Dilemma of Accountability:

    • Candidates with Criminal Charges: The significant issue of candidates with serious criminal charges contesting elections raises questions about the integrity and suitability of such candidates for public office.
      • According to a report by ADR, 19% of candidates in the 2019 Lok Sabha election faced charges of rape, murder or kidnapping.
    • Circumvention of Disclosure Requirements: Some candidates attempted to circumvent disclosure requirements by leaving certain columns blank and filing incomplete affidavits, indicating loopholes in the electoral process.

    Recommendations by Election Commission and Law Commission in its 244th report:

    • A conviction for filing a false affidavit should attract a punishment of a minimum of 2 years imprisonment and be a ground for disqualification.
    • The Trials in such cases must be conducted on a day-to-day basis.
    • Persons charged by a competent court with offences punishable by imprisonment of at least 5 years should be debarred from contesting in the elections provided the case is filed at least 6 months before the election in question.

    Supreme Court’s Judgement to resolve this issues: 

    • In Public Interest Foundation Vs Union of India (2018) directed candidates as well as political parties to issue a declaration about criminal antecedents, at least three times before the election, in a newspaper in the locality and electronic media.

    Way Forward:

    • Debarring from contesting elections : Debarring chargesheeted candidates from contesting elections is likely to be misused by various ruling parties.
    • Increasing Punishment for False Affidavits: Increasing punishment for filing false affidavits and making it a ground for disqualification need to be implemented.
    • Strict Implementation of SC order:The Supreme Court’s order to provide wide publicity of criminal records should also be strictly implemented.

    Conclusion: Addressing challenges in candidate disclosure, enhancing electoral integrity can be achieved through measures such as imposing stricter penalties for false affidavits, enforcing disclosure laws rigorously, and ensuring widespread dissemination of candidates’ criminal records.

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  • Pharma Sector – Drug Pricing, NPPA, FDC, Generics, etc.

    Patanjali Misleading Advertisement Case

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

    Why in the news?

    • The Supreme Court ruling refusing to accept Patanjali’s MD’s unconditional apologies underscores the gravity of intentionally misleading advertisements and their repercussions.
    • Despite apologies, Patanjali’s breach of its commitment not to disseminate false claims about curing various illnesses led to this decision.

    The Concept of Obiter Dicta Lexicon:

    • In the context of the criticism directed towards the Hon’ble Supreme Court Bench’s statement in the Patanjali case, the concept of “obiter dicta lexicon” may find relevance.
    • “Obiter dicta” is a Latin term that translates to “things said by the way” and refers to statements made by a judge in passing, which are not essential to the decision of the case at hand.
    • It refers to the use of language or expressions that are not directly relevant to the legal reasoning or decision-making process in a court judgment or opinion.

    SC Bench Statement on Patanjali’s Apology:

    • The statement “we will rip you apart” is being criticized for being overly aggressive and potentially inappropriate for a judicial setting.
    • Therefore, in this case, the use of language that deviated from the core legal issues at hand and instead conveyed a sense of aggression or hostility could be viewed as part of the “obiter dicta lexicon.”

    Understanding Misleading Advertisements:

    • The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 prohibits unfair trade practices, including misleading advertisements, and provides mechanisms for consumers to seek redressal for grievances related to misleading advertising.

    Following are the types of Misleading Ads:

    1. False Claims: Advertisements with untrue statements about a product’s features or benefits.
    2. Exaggerated Claims: Ads that overstate a product’s benefits beyond reason.
    3. Omission of Material Information: Ads that hide important details consumers need to know.
    4. Comparative Advertising: Ads unfairly attacking competitors’ products.
    5. Endorsements and Testimonials: Ads using fake endorsements or testimonials.
    6. Health and Safety Claims: Ads with unproven health or safety benefits.
    7. Bait-and-Switch Tactics: Ads luring with false promises and switching to different offers.

    Key Legislation dealing with Misleading Ads:

    1. Bureau of Indian Standards (Certification) Regulations, 1988
    2. Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006
    3. The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1955 (DOMA)
    4. The Drug and Cosmetics Act of 1940
    5. The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act of 2003

     

    Regulatory Authorities dealing with the Issue:

    1. Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI): Ensures fairness and compliance with the ASCI Code in Indian commercials.
    2. Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): Regulates consumer rights violations, unfair trade practices, and misleading marketing detrimental to public interests. It has issued the Guidelines for the Prevention and Endorsement of Misleading Advertisements, 2022.

    About the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1955 (DOMA):

    • The Magic Remedies Act encompasses the definition of “drug”.
    • It extends to include articles like talismans, mantras, and charms purportedly possessing miraculous healing powers.

    Here are the key provisions of the Act:

    1. Prohibition of Certain Advertisements: The Act prohibits advertisements that claim to prevent or cure certain diseases or ailments listed in Schedule J of the Act through drugs or remedies. These diseases include conditions like cancer, tuberculosis, diabetes, and epilepsy.
    2. Prohibition of Misleading Advertisements: The Act prohibits advertisements that are false or misleading in any material particular regarding the nature, substance, quality, or potency of any drug or remedy.
    3. Cognizance of Offences: No court shall take cognizance of any offence under the Act except on a complaint made by the government or by a person authorized by the government.
    4. Exemptions: The Act provides exemptions for advertisements of drugs or remedies containing certain substances or preparations listed in Schedule J if the advertisement conforms to the conditions specified in the Schedule.

    Violations made by Patanjali Ayurveda

    1. Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954 (DOMA): By disseminating deceptive advertisements, Patanjali breached Section 4 of the DOMA, which prohibits the publication of false drug ads.
    2. Consumer Protection Act of 2019 (CPA): Patanjali made false claims in their advertisements about curing different illnesses, contravening Section 2(28) of the CPA, which defines “misleading advertisement”.
    3. Violation of MoU between Ministry of AYUSH and ASCI: Patanjali’s actions breached the memorandum signed between the Ministry of AYUSH and the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), indicating non-compliance with agreed-upon standards for advertising practices.

    PYQ:

    [2012] With reference to consumers’ rights/privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1.    Consumers are empowered to take samples for food testing.

    2.    When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid.

    3.    In case of death of a consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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