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  • Solar Energy – JNNSM, Solar Cities, Solar Pumps, etc.

    India’s Solar Slowdown: Trends and Projections

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

    solar

    In the news

    • Following two years of robust growth, India’s solar capacity additions sharply declined by 44% in 2023, the lowest since 2016.
    • What triggered this slowdown, and will this trend persist? Let’s explore.

    Solar Capacity Addition in 2023

    • Decline in Capacity: India added 7.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity in 2023, a significant drop from the previous year’s record of 13.4 GW. This marked the lowest levels since 2016, except for the pandemic-affected 2020.
    • Large-scale Projects Hit Hard: Capacity additions in large solar power projects declined by over 50% to 5.8 GW from 11.7 GW in 2022. However, rooftop solar power capacity continued to grow by 1.7 GW, consistent with 2022 levels.
    • Cumulative Capacity: India’s cumulative solar power capacity reached 72 GW by the end of 2023, with large-scale projects contributing over 60 GW.

    Reasons for the Decline

    • Regulatory Hurdles: Solar power producers faced regulatory hurdles, including stricter grid connectivity rules and a Supreme Court directive in 2021 mandating the relocation of overhead power cables to protect the Great Indian Bustard habitats.
    • Challenges in Compliance: Compliance with amended grid code provisions became more demanding, leading to delays in project execution. Land acquisition challenges also persisted, further delaying project timelines.

    Outlook for 2024

    • Temporary Setback: The decline in solar capacity addition in 2023 appears to be a temporary setback. The pipeline for 2024 is robust, with 105.3 GW of capacity planned, including an additional 70.6 GW awaiting auction.
    • Delayed Projects: Large-scale projects that were delayed and granted extensions from December 2022 to June 2023 will contribute significantly to capacity additions in 2024.

    Impact of ‘Make in India’

    • Reduction in Imports: India’s solar capacity initially relied on imported cells from China. However, the imposition of customs duties on imported solar modules and cells led to a significant decline in imports.
    • Promoting Local Manufacturing: The introduction of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) enabled local manufacturers to participate in government bids. However, the ALMM mandate was suspended until April 2024 to maintain momentum in solar installations.

    Alignment with India’s Energy Targets

    • Renewable Energy Capacity: In 2023, India’s renewable energy capacity exceeded 180 GW, with solar contributing 40%. Despite missing the initial targets due to the pandemic, India achieved 60 GW of large-scale solar projects a year later.
    • Future Targets: India aims to achieve a renewable energy target of nearly 600 GW by 2032, with solar accounting for 365 GW. To meet this target, 30 GW of fresh solar capacity must be added annually for the next 8 years.

    Various Policy Initiatives

    • Solar Park Scheme (2014): Initiated in, the Solar Park Scheme aims to develop a series of solar parks, each with a capacity of around 500 MW, across various states.
    • Rooftop Solar Scheme (2016): The Rooftop Solar Scheme endeavours to harness solar power by installing solar panels on residential rooftops.
    • National Solar Mission (2010): The National Solar Mission stands as a crucial endeavor by both the Indian government and state authorities to foster sustainable development and tackle energy security challenges.
    • SRISTI Scheme (2018): The SRISTI Scheme is formulated to encourage the implementation of rooftop solar power projects in India, promoting sustainability.
    • International Solar Alliance (2015): Formed in 2015, the International Solar Alliance serves as a collaborative platform promoting the adoption of solar energy technologies through member-driven initiatives.
    • Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (2019): Launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2019, the PM-KUSUM scheme aims to facilitate the deployment of off-grid solar pumps in rural areas and reduce reliance on the grid in connected regions.

    Conclusion

    • Despite the temporary slowdown, India remains committed to expanding its solar capacity to meet its ambitious renewable energy targets and contribute to global sustainability efforts.

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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA): Lessons for India

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

    In the news

    • The Digital Markets Act (DMA) marks a significant milestone for the European Union (EU) as it reinforces its role as a global trendsetter in regulating the tech industry.
    • With its implementation, six tech giants designated as “gatekeepers” – Amazon, Apple, Google parent Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft, and TikTok owner ByteDance – are required to adhere to new regulations.

    EU’s Leadership in Tech Regulation

    • Pioneering Regulations: The EU has a history of imposing significant fines on tech giants, enforcing strict antitrust rules, and pioneering norms to regulate social media and artificial intelligence.
    • Global Impact: The DMA sets a precedent for tech regulation worldwide, with countries like Japan, Britain, Mexico, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, and India drafting similar rules to prevent tech dominance in digital markets.

    Key Provisions of the DMA

    • Regulated Services: The DMA targets 22 services, including operating systems, messenger apps, social media platforms, and search engines, offered by the designated tech gatekeepers.
    • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Tech companies face hefty fines of up to 20% of their annual global revenue for repeated violations or potential breakup for systematic infringements.

    Implications for Tech Giants

    • Shift in Business Practices: Tech giants are compelled to adapt their business models to comply with the DMA, such as Apple’s decision to allow iPhone users to download apps from sources outside its App Store.
    • Reduced Monopolistic Practices: The DMA aims to curtail monopolistic practices by providing users with choices for default browsers, search engines, and app sources.

    Challenges and Criticisms

    • Security Risks: While Apple’s decision to allow app downloads outside its App Store offers more freedom to users, it also raises concerns about potential security risks associated with third-party sources.
    • Market Fragmentation: Critics argue that additional fees imposed by tech giants for alternative app sources may deter developers, leading to market fragmentation and hindering competition.
    • Consumer Awareness: Despite offering choice screens for default services, smaller players like Ecosia raise concerns that users may stick with familiar options due to lack of awareness about alternatives.

    EU’s Vigilance and Future Outlook

    • Regulatory Oversight: EU competition Chief Margrethe Vestager emphasizes close scrutiny to ensure tech firms comply with DMA regulations and prevent circumvention of rules.
    • Consumer Choice: The DMA prioritizes consumer choice by allowing users to select default services and promoting competition among tech companies.
    • Continuous Evaluation: The effectiveness of DMA regulations will be continuously evaluated to address emerging challenges and ensure a fair and competitive digital ecosystem.

    Application in India: Unique Considerations

    • Market Dynamics: India’s digital market differs significantly from the EU, with distinct internet penetration levels, consumer preferences, and regulatory challenges.
    • Debate on Ex-Ante Regulation: The EU’s adoption of ex-ante regulations raises questions about its applicability in India and the need for tailored approaches to address local market dynamics.
    • Ground Realities: Legal experts emphasize the importance of aligning regulatory frameworks with ground realities and testing laws in local contexts to ensure effective implementation.

    Way Forward: Tailored Solutions for India

    • Customized Regulation: India’s DMA should be crafted in consultation with businesses and consumers to address the country’s unique market dynamics and regulatory challenges.
    • Pragmatic Approach: Regulatory frameworks must be flexible and responsive to ground realities, ensuring that laws effectively address local needs and promote competition and innovation.

    Conclusion

    • The DMA represents a significant step towards promoting fair competition and consumer empowerment in the digital landscape.
    • As the EU leads the way in tech regulation, the DMA’s implementation will have far-reaching implications globally, shaping the behavior of tech giants and safeguarding consumer interests in an increasingly digitized world.

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  • Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

    Illegal Tree Felling at Jim Corbett National Park

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

    corbet

    In the news

    • The recent Supreme Court ruling on tiger safaris in Uttarakhand’s Jim Corbett National Park has ignited discussions on wildlife conservation and tourism development.
    • The Court has condemned the unlawful felling of over 6,000 trees for constructing buildings under the guise of eco-tourism.

    About Jim Corbett National Park

    Details
    Establishment Established on August 8th, 1936 (originally as Hailey National Park)
    Location Uttarakhand State, Nainital region
    Renaming Renamed as Ramganga National Park (1954–1955),

    Later reverted to Corbett National Park
    Total Area 1,318.54 square kilometers (509.09 square miles)
    Ecological Zones Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Sonanadi, Durgadevi, Dhela
    Conservation Programs Included in Project Tiger (1973);

    Part of World Wide Fund for Nature’s Terai Arc Landscape Program
    Flagship Species Focus on Bengal tiger, Asiatic elephant, Great One-horned rhino
    Geographical Features Ridges, streams, plateaus, ravines, grasslands, deciduous woods, pine forests
    Importance Designated as Important Bird Area by Birdlife International;

    Key role in wildlife conservation efforts

     

    Court’s Decision on Jim Corbett NP

    • Petition against Captive Animal Holding: The Supreme Court addressed a petition opposing captive animal holding in the national park.
    • Permitted Tiger Safaris: The Court allowed the establishment of tiger safaris in peripheral and buffer zones with specified conditions.
    • Balancing Tourism and Ecosystem Preservation: The Court aimed to maintain a delicate balance between promoting tourism and preserving sensitive ecosystems within Jim Corbett National Park.

    Impact of Tourism on Locals & Wildlife

    • Tourism as a Livelihood: Locals rely on tourism for income, with transportation, tourist safaris, food centers, and accommodation facilities contributing significantly.
    • Infrastructure and Conservation: Tourism infrastructure obstructs wildlife corridors, impacting conservation efforts. The phasing out of Dhikala tourism complex is deemed necessary to comply with legal requirements.
    • Animal-Centric Approach: The Supreme Court emphasizes an animal-centric approach over tourist-centric policies to ensure conservation in national parks.

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  • Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

    Kerala to launch affordable ‘Sabari K-Rice ‘

    Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    In the news

    • The Kerala government’s decision to introduce ‘Sabari K-Rice’ is seen as a response to the Union government’s distribution of ‘Bharat Rice.’

    Bharat Rice and Other Commodities

     

    • ‘Bharat’ Rice refers to the retail sale of rice by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to the general public at a subsidized price.
    • Its primary objective is to stabilize markets and ensure affordability for consumers.
    • This rice is available in 5kg and 10kg packs priced at ₹29/kg.
    •  It is distributed through cooperatives such as Kendriya Bhandar, National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF).
    • Additionally, it can be purchased from mobile vans and physical outlets of these cooperative agencies.
    • Moreover, these agencies also offer ‘Bharat Atta’ (wheat flour) at Rs. 27.50 per kg in 5kg and 10kg packs.
    • Similarly, ‘Bharat Dal’ (chana dal / Chickpea) is available at Rs. 60 per kg for a 1kg pack and Rs. 55 per kg for a 30kg pack, along with onions priced at Rs. 25 per kg.

    Sabari K-Rice

    • Objective: It aims to provide good quality rice at affordable rates, presenting an alternative to the existing subsidized rice scheme.
    • Distribution: K-Rice will be made available through Supplyco outlets, alongside the existing subsidized rice supply of 10 kg per card.
    • Quality and Pricing: K-Rice offers high-quality varieties at subsidized rates, contrasting with Bharat Rice sold by NAFED and NCCF at different prices.
    • Price Discrepancy: While Bharat Rice sells at ₹29 per kg, K-Rice aims to provide affordable rates, with the state government incurring additional costs to distribute it.

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  • Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

    India’s First Underwater Metro Line in Kolkata

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

    tunnel

    In the news

    • Prime Minister inaugurated India’s first underwater metro tunnel in Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in infrastructure development.

    Kolkata Underwater Metro Tunnel

    • Kolkata- Howrah Link: Part of the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section of Kolkata Metro’s East-West corridor.
    • Distance and Speed: Covers a distance of 8 km under the Hooghly River, with a rapid travel time of just 45 seconds across a 520-metre stretch.
    • Station Configuration: Three out of six stations will be underground, enhancing connectivity and convenience.
    • Submerged Train Operation: Trains will traverse 26 meters below the river’s surface and operate 16 meters beneath the riverbed.

    About Kolkata Metro: India’s First Rapid Transit System

    • Overview: Kolkata Metro is India’s first operational rapid transit system, established in 1984, serving Kolkata and its metropolitan region.
    • Network Length: It boasts four operational lines, totalling 59.38 km and comprising 48 stations, with three additional lines under construction.
    • Infrastructure Mix: Utilizes a combination of underground, at-grade, and elevated stations with broad-gauge and standard-gauge tracks.
    • Operation and Ownership: Managed by Metro Railway, Kolkata, and Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation.
    • Project Financing: Funded for Rs 4,965 crore through a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

    About Hooghly River

    • The Hooghly River, also known as the Bhagirathi-Hooghly, is a distributary of the Ganges River in West Bengal, India.
    • The river originates at Tribeni, where it splits from the main channel of the Ganges.
    • The Hooghly River stretches for approximately 260 km (162 miles), making it a significant water body in the region.
    • It served as a crucial trade route during the colonial era, fostering commerce and cultural exchange.
    • It hosts iconic structures along its banks, including Howrah Bridge and Victoria Memorial, enrich Kolkata’s cultural landscape.

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Who was Ayya Vaikundar?

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    In the news

    • Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi sparked controversy with his recent remarks about Ayya Vaikundar, the 19th-century social reformer.
    • At an event commemorating birth anniversary, the Governor portrayed him as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, tasked with protecting Sanatan Dharma from the influence of the British government.

    About Ayya Vaikundar (1809-1851)

    • Born in 1809, Vaikundar is revered as a pioneer of social reform in southern Tamil Nadu.
    • His teachings emphasized equality, fraternity, and the abolition of caste-based discrimination, challenging entrenched social hierarchies.
    • Vaikundar’s initiatives, such as organizing community eateries for people of all backgrounds and advocating for shared water resources, aimed to dismantle caste barriers and promote inclusivity.

    Contributions to Social Equality

    • Community Initiatives: Vaikundar introduced revolutionary practices like Samapanthi-bhojana and Muthirikinarus to foster social cohesion and challenge caste-based segregation.
    • Teachings: He believed in the concept of “pure love” (in Tamil, “piranthu”) as the ultimate goal of life. According to him, true love is selfless, unconditional, and pure, and it is the key to achieving inner peace and happiness.
    • Scriptural References: His teachings are often rooted in Tamil scriptures such as the Tirukkural and the Nalayira Divya Prabandham. He interpreted these texts in a way that emphasized love, devotion, and spiritual growth.
    • Community Practices: His followers engage in communal practices such as congregational worship, singing devotional songs (Nadai), and participating in spiritual gatherings known as “Ayyavazhi festivals.”
    • Religious Reforms: He advocated for inclusive religious practices, such as Thottu Namam, which symbolized equality before divinity, regardless of caste.
    • Educational Empowerment: He promoted education for lower castes, established community worship spaces, and simplified marriage customs to empower marginalized communities.

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  • Indian Navy Updates

    MH 60R Seahawk: 1st squadron commissioned into Indian Navy

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

    In the news

    • The Indian Navy describes the commissioning of the MH-60R Seahawk squadron as a pivotal moment in India’s defense modernization journey.

    About MH 60R Seahawk

    • Maritime Variant: The MH-60R Seahawk is the maritime variant of the Black Hawk helicopter, procured through a 24-aircraft foreign military sales contract with the US government in February 2020.
    • Operational Capabilities: It is designed for various operations including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.
    • Arsenal: These helicopters offer advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite tailored to India’s maritime security needs.
    • Armament: Armed with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, MK 54 torpedoes, and advanced precision weapons, the helicopters provide formidable firepower.

    Significance

    • Enhanced Blue-Water Capabilities: The commissioning enhances India’s blue-water capabilities, extending operational reach across vast maritime domains.
    • Maritime Security: It aligns with the PM’s vision of ensuring security and growth for all in the region (SAGAR), reinforcing the Indian Navy’s dedication to fortifying maritime security.

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Kulasekarapattinam: ISRO’s New Rocket Launchport

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

    In the news

    • Prime Minister recently laid the foundation stone of ISRO’s second rocket launchport at Kulasekarapattinam.
    • Costing Rs 986 crore, this facility, strategically located in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district, will primarily serve commercial, on-demand, and small satellite launches in the future.

    About Kulasekarapattinam

    • It will be second after Satish Dhawan Space Centre (Sriharikota Range (SHAR)), founded in Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota in 1971, with two launch pads.
    • It will focus on the launch of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) on a commercial basis.
    • It would have the capacity to launch 24 satellites per year using a mobile launch structure.
    • It strategic location helps save fuel for small rocket launches as the port can launch rockets directly south over the Indian Ocean without requiring crossing landmasses.

    Need for such Facility

    • Fuel Saving: This is unlike the existing launch site at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, which adds more fuel requirements for launching into a polar orbit as rockets need to follow a curved path to the south to avoid Sri Lanka’s landmass.
    • Unburdening SHAR: The opening of the space sector to private players necessitates a rise in commercial launches, prompting ISRO to build a second launchport to alleviate the burden on the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.
    • Dedicated Launch for Small Payloads: While SHAR handles larger missions, Kulasekarapattinam launchport will cater exclusively to smaller payloads, including those for commercial purposes and on-demand launches.

    Geographical Advantages

    • Strategic Location: Kulasekarapattinam provides a natural advantage for ISRO’s future launches, especially for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), due to its geographical, scientific, and strategic positioning.
    • Optimized Trajectory: The launch trajectory from Kulasekarapattinam enables a direct southward path for SSLVs, minimizing fuel consumption compared to launches from SHAR, which currently follow longer trajectories.

    SSLVs: Purpose and Development

    • Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): SSLV is designed to launch small satellites weighing between 10 to 500kg into Low Earth Orbit, catering to commercial and on-demand launches.
    • Mission Successes: SSLV-D1’s launch in August 2022 failed to achieve the intended orbit, but SSLV-D2’s success in February 2023 marked a significant milestone for ISRO’s SSLV program.

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  • Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

    Maoism and Related Issues

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

    mao

    In the news

    • The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court recently acquitted a former Delhi University professor and five others in a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for alleged Maoist links.
    • The Maharashtra government swiftly approached the Supreme Court seeking an urgent hearing after failing to secure a stay on the High Court’s judgment.

    CSE Mains Questions based on Left Wing Extremism (LWE):

         

    Note: Almost every alternate year, a question on LWE has been asked in the Mains.

     

    1. 2015: The persisting drives of the government for development of large industries in backward areas have resulted in isolating the tribal population and the farmers who face multiple displacements. With Malkangiri and Naxalbari foci, discuss the corrective strategies needed to win the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) doctrine affected citizens back into mainstream of social and economic growth.
    2. 2018: Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend, but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India’s approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE.
    3. 2020: What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in Eastern part of India? What strategy should the Government of India, civil administration and security forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas?
    4. 2022: Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multi-layered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.

    Who are the Maoists?

    • Origins: Maoism, derived from the teachings of Chinese leader Mao Zedong, emerged as a form of communist theory.
    • Ideology: Maoists believe in the philosophy that “Power flows from the barrel of the gun” and advocate for armed struggle to achieve their goals.
    • Evolution in India: Maoism gained prominence in India through movements like the Naxalbari uprising, leading to the formation of groups like the Maoist Communist Centre (MCC) in West Bengal.

    Historical Context and Evolution

    • Influence of Russian Revolution: Naxalism draws ideological inspiration from the Russian Revolution and the overthrow of the Tsarist regime.
    • Marxian Ideals: Rooted in Marxism, Maoism emphasizes class struggle and the redistribution of power to marginalized communities.
    • Neo-Marxism: After the success of revolutions led by Lenin and Mao, intellectuals worldwide, including Fidel Castro, embraced Marxist ideologies.

    Root Causes of Maoism in India

    • Corporate Exploitation: Exploitation of natural resources in Eastern India has led to marginalization and harassment of tribal communities.
    • Tribal Alienation: Post-independence, tribal communities lost traditional rights over resources, leading to alienation.
    • Livelihood Losses: Depletion of natural resources threatened tribal livelihoods.
    • Forceful Displacement: Displacement from ancestral lands disrupted traditional governance systems.
    • Absence of Governance: In areas of exploitation, governance structures collapsed due to killings and intimidation.
    • Foreign Provocations: External support for LWE outfits exacerbated the conflict.

    Impact on Youth

    • Romanticism and Misunderstanding: Some view Maoists romantically, overlooking the violence inherent in their ideology.
    • Violence and Destruction: Maoist doctrine glorifies violence, leading to destruction of governance mechanisms.
    • Radicalization and Coercion: Maoists radicalize youth and coerce locals to join their movement.
    • Urban Presence: Maoists extend their influence to semi-urban and urban areas, facilitated by educated intellectuals.

    Strategies used by LWEs and Maoists

    • Utilization of State Structures: Maoists exploit state structures to further their agenda and weaken enforcement.
    • Recruitment and Fundraising: They recruit and raise funds for insurgency, often through legal means.
    • Urban Shelters: Maoists establish urban shelters for underground cadres.
    • Legal Assistance: Legal aid is provided to arrested cadres.
    • Mass Mobilization: They mobilize masses on issues relevant to their cause.

    Government Initiatives for LWE-Affected Areas

    • Aspirational Districts Programme: Monitoring of development initiatives in affected districts.
    • Education and Infrastructure: Building schools and improving road connectivity in affected areas.
    • Naxal Surrender Policy: Aimed at reintegrating misguided youth and hardcore extremists.
    • National Policy Action Plan: Development-focused policy to address LWE challenges.

    SAMADHAN Doctrine: A Comprehensive Strategy

    • Smart Leadership: Effective leadership at all levels.
    • Aggressive Strategy: Proactive measures to counter extremism.
    • Motivation and Training: Training of security personnel and motivation for operations.
    • Actionable Intelligence: Intelligence-driven operations.
    • Harnessing Technology: Use of technology for surveillance and monitoring.
    • Strategic Action Plans: Tailored action plans for each theater of conflict.
    • Financial Isolation: Cutting off financial support to extremist groups.

    Way Forward

    • Dual Objective: Military defeat of insurgents and ideological resolution of grievances.
    • Institutional Overhauls: Reforms in governance and security institutions.
    • Coordinated Efforts: States must coordinate operations to deny space to Maoists.
    • Population Segregation: Separating civilians from insurgents, both operationally and ideologically.
    • Economic Development: Addressing resource conflicts through inclusive economic development.

    Conclusion

    • Understanding the complex dynamics of Maoism and Left-Wing Extremism is crucial for formulating effective counterinsurgency strategies.
    • By addressing root causes, implementing targeted initiatives, and adopting a comprehensive approach, India can mitigate the impact of LWE and pave the way for sustainable peace and development in affected regions.

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

    Have India’s health centres really ‘collapsed’?

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    health centres

    In the news

    • Public health centres in India have long been shrouded in infamy, perceived as symbols of systemic failure.
    • The effectiveness of primary healthcare in India has always been a topic of discussion, with calls for strengthening these services through government commitment to accessibility, affordability, and quality care.

    PYQ from CSE Mains 2021:

     

    Q. “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.

    Health Centres in India

    • Primary Health Centres (PHCs) also known as Public HCs play a crucial role in providing comprehensive healthcare services to the population.
    • The first PHC in India was established following the proposal of the PHC concept in a paper submitted to the Executive Board of the World Health Organization (WHO) in January 1975.
    • The establishment of PHCs gained further momentum with the International Conference on PHC held in Alma Ata, Kazakhstan in 1978.
    • They are a fundamental component of the healthcare system, with Medical Officers at these centers required to hold an MBBS degree.
    • India boasts a vast public health infrastructure with 23,391 PHCs and 145,894 sub-centers, serving a substantial percentage of the population.
    • PHCs cover a significant portion of outpatient care, including services for non-communicable diseases, maternal health, and child health.

    Importance of Health Centres

    • Foundational Role: Health centres form the backbone of India’s public health system, providing primary care to millions.
    • Access and Affordability: With nearly two lakh centres across the country, they aim to offer accessible and affordable healthcare, particularly in rural areas.
    • Impact on Equity: Effective health centres can mitigate social and health inequities, reducing reliance on costly private healthcare and preventing households from falling into poverty due to healthcare expenses.

    Unveiling the Reality

    • Evidence of Progress: Surveys conducted across five states reveal a pattern of improving quality and utilization of health services over time, albeit at a slow pace.
      1. In Himachal Pradesh, functional health centres serve 83% of the population.
      2. Chhattisgarh has shown a radical expansion in the public provision of healthcare, with increased facilities, medicines, and staff presence.
      3. Bihar lags behind, with dismal quality of health centres and some sub-centres being dormant or non-existent.
    • Policy Interventions: Increased health expenditure, initiatives like the National Rural Health Mission, and state-specific schemes have contributed to incremental improvements.
      1. The share of health expenditure in the Union Budget increased drastically.
      2. The National Health Mission’s share shrank from 69% to 44%, while allocations for the Ayushmann Bharat program and new AIIMS hospitals surged.
      3. COVID-19 led to a sustained increase in patient utilization of public health facilities, indicating growing trust in the system.

    Challenges and Gaps

    • Underutilization: Despite improvements, health centres still face challenges such as high staff absenteeism, limited services, and poor infrastructure.
    • Lacunas: Health workers report irregular flow of funds, lack of facilities like toilets and transport, and inadequate supply of drugs and testing equipment.
    • Social Discrimination: Caste and gender dynamics influence access to and quality of healthcare, perpetuating inequalities. Upper-caste doctors display disparaging attitudes towards marginalized communities, while upper-caste families disrespect Dalit ANMs.
    • Gender Disparities: Women, particularly frontline health workers, play a crucial role in rural health settings but often face neglect and discrimination.

    Way forward

    • Holistic Investment: While progress has been made, it remains patchy, with allocations often prioritizing tertiary healthcare over primary care.
    • Designated allocations: The composition of the healthcare budget has remained stagnant, with minimal increases in the share allocated to primary healthcare.
    • Policy Reform: The paper advocates for substantial support from the central government to enable poorer states to replicate successful initiatives and enhance the role of health centres in public healthcare delivery.

    Conclusion

    • India’s health centres, though fraught with challenges, embody resilience and potential.
    • By addressing systemic gaps and prioritizing primary healthcare, the nation can harness the transformative power of these centres to achieve equitable and accessible healthcare for all.

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