Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Inclusive Economy; Inclusive institutions; Nobel Prize;
Why in the News?
- This year’s Nobel Prize in Economics, officially known as the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences, was awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James Robinson (AJR).
- AJR have highlighted the importance of institutions in development, but critics argue that this approach tends to favour Western liberal models over other institutional frameworks.
Why Do Some Nations Succeed While Others Fail?
- Role of Institutions: The economic success or failure of nations can often be traced back to the nature of their institutions.
- Inclusive institutions encourage economic activity by providing secure property rights, legal frameworks, and political systems that incentivize growth.
- In contrast, extractive institutions concentrate wealth and power in the hands of a few, leading to economic stagnation and social inequality.
- Historical Path Dependence: Countries that experienced inclusive economic institutions early in their development tend to be more prosperous, while those with a history of extractive institutions face significant barriers to growth. Historical events shape the trajectory of institutional development and influence current outcomes.
What Is the Impact of Historical Institutions on Current Economic Outcomes?
- Colonial Legacy: Institutions established during colonialism, especially extractive ones, have long-lasting impacts. Areas with landlord-based land tenure systems or direct colonial rule have struggled with lower agricultural productivity, fewer social services, and weaker infrastructure.
- Natural Experiment Evidence: AJR’s research used historical data, such as differences in settler mortality, to show that regions colonized by Europeans with high mortality rates ended up with extractive institutions that still negatively affect growth today.
- Long-Term Development Patterns: The effects of historical institutions persist, shaping economic development, social structures, and governance even after countries gain independence or transition to new political systems.
Why do critics argue that this approach tends to favour Western liberal models over other institutional frameworks?
- Historical Bias: Critics argue that AJR’s approach overlooks the diverse paths of development, favoring Western institutions while underestimating non-Western experiences and historical complexities.
- Western Norms as Universal: The framework tends to present Western liberal institutions as ideal models, disregarding how other systems might effectively function in different cultural and socio-political contexts.
Why Are Inclusive Institutions Not More Widely Adopted?
- Conflict of Interests: Powerful groups with control over resources have incentives to maintain extractive institutions to protect their wealth and power, resisting changes that would lead to a fairer distribution of economic benefits.
- Collective Action Challenges: Reforming extractive institutions requires solving collective action problems where diverse groups must agree on new rules that may threaten the established elite’s interests.
- Path Dependency: Historical conditions can create institutional inertia, making it challenging to shift from extractive to inclusive frameworks due to deep-rooted social, political, and economic norms.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Inclusive Institutions: Focus on legal and policy reforms that secure property rights, ensure fair governance, and promote transparent decision-making, encouraging broad-based economic participation and growth.
- Empower Marginalized Groups: Implement policies that reduce power concentration by supporting grassroots movements, enhancing education access, and providing economic opportunities to disadvantaged communities to overcome historical inequalities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: HAL, Maharatna Status
Why in the News?
The Centre has upgraded the status of PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) as Maharatna Company (from earlier Navratna Status).
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL): Key Facts
- HAL was founded in 1940 in Bangalore as Hindustan Aircraft Limited, merging with Aeronautics India Limited in 1964 to become HAL.
- It is a state-owned company under the Ministry of Defence.
- Headquarters are in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- Operates 20 production and R&D centers across India, including Bangalore, Nashik, Koraput, and Lucknow.
- Focuses on design, development, manufacture, and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, engines, avionics, and aerospace equipment.
- Produces fighter aircraft like Tejas LCA, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Jaguar, and Hawk.
- Manufactures helicopters including Dhruv ALH, Rudra, Cheetah, Chetak, and LCH.
- Collaborates with Boeing, Airbus, Rosoboronexport, and Safran on aircraft production and tech transfer.
- Listed on BSE and NSE in 2018, allowing public investment.
- Expanded exports, supplying aircraft and helicopter parts to countries like Vietnam, Mauritius, and Ecuador.
- Recent projects include AMCA, IMRH, and Tejas Mk2, boosting India’s indigenous defense capabilities.
|
About Maharatna Companies
|
Details |
| What is it? |
• Recognition granted to select Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in India.
• Provides greater financial and operational autonomy compared to Navratna and Miniratna PSUs. |
| Eligibility |
• Annual Turnover: Over ₹25,000 crore in the last three years.
• Net Worth: More than ₹15,000 crore over the last three years.
• Net Profit: Minimum of ₹5,000 crore for three consecutive years.
• Must have significant global operations or international presence. |
| Autonomy |
• Can invest up to ₹5,000 crore or 15% of their net worth in a single project without government approval.
• Authorized to make equity investments for strategic resources or collaborations in India and abroad. |
| Purpose |
• Aims to foster more flexibility in operations and encourage expansion, especially in international markets.
• Helps companies to become global players. |
| Examples |
• Indian Oil Corporation (IOC)
• Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)
• Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)
• Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) |
| Significance |
• Enhances the ability of PSUs to compete globally.
• Allows quicker decision-making and reduces bureaucratic hurdles.
• Promotes growth and competitiveness in the international arena. |
Benefits of Maharatna Status for HAL
- HAL can now invest up to ₹5,000 crore (from earlier ₹1000 cr) or 15% of its net worth (whichever is applicable) in a single project without needing government approval.
- As a Maharatna company, HAL has the freedom to engage in mergers, acquisitions, and strategic investments, both domestically and internationally.
PYQ:
[2011] Why is the Government of India disinvesting its equity in the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)?
1. The Government intends to use the revenue earned from the disinvestment mainly to pay back the external debt.
2. The Government no longer intends to retain the management control of the CPSEs.
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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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Abhidhamma Divas
Why in the News?
PM has participated in the celebration of International Abhidhamma Divas and recognition of Pali as a classical language.
What is Abhidhamma?
- Abhidhamma means “Higher Teaching” or “Special Teaching” in Pali, one of the three main divisions of the Tripitaka (Abhidhamma Pitaka) of Theravada Buddhism.
- It offers a systematic and analytical exploration of mind and matter, delving deeper into Buddhist philosophy than the Sutta Pitaka.
- The Abhidhamma explores mental states, consciousness, and psychological processes, providing a framework for understanding reality.
- It is known for its technical and specialized vocabulary in Pali, such as:
- Chitta (consciousness)
- Chetasika (mental factors)
- Rupa (materiality)
- Nibbana (final liberation).
- Abhidhamma Pitaka contains seven treatises, with Pannhana being one of the most notable for its analysis of causal relationships.
- Traditionally, Buddha is believed to have taught the Abhidhamma to the gods in the Tavatimsa heaven, later sharing the teachings with his disciple Sariputta.
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About International Abhidhamma Divas
- It is celebrated Ashwin Purnima (Full Moon), to commemorate Buddha’s descent from Tavatimsa-devaloka (a celestial realm) to Sankassiya (Sankisa Basantapur, UP).
- It actually marks the conclusion of a 3-month rain retreat, known as Varsavasa or Vasa, during which monks remain in a single location for meditation and prayer.
- The celebration involves Dhamma discourses, academic sessions, and exhibitions that connect ancient wisdom with modern spiritual practices.
- Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, hosts the event, organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).
Teachings of Abhidhamma
- The Abhidhamma provides a detailed framework for understanding the mind, matter, and existence.
- It addresses complex concepts like birth, death, and mental phenomena in a precise and abstract manner.
- Abhidhamma is known for its analytical approach:
- It categorizes mental states and emotions.
- It explains causal relationships that determine mental and material phenomena.
- The teachings cover topics like:
- Moral and mental states
- Aggregates (components of existence)
- Causal links
- Path to enlightenment.
Historical Background and Significance
- Abhidhamma Divas commemorates the day when Lord Buddha returned to earth after teaching the Abhidhamma in the Tavatimsa realm.
- The descent is marked by the Ashokan Elephant Pillar at Sankassiya, highlighting its historical significance.
- The celebration coincides with the end of the Rainy Retreat (Vassa), a period of monastic seclusion, and the Pavarana festival, a time of mutual reflection among monks.
Classical Status to Pali Language
- In 2024, the event holds special significance due to the recognition of Pali as a Classical Language by the Indian government.
- Pali is the ancient language in which much of Buddhist canonical literature is written, including the Tipitaka.
- Recognized as a Classical Language by the Government of India in 2024, alongside Marathi, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
- Pali’s significance lies in its role as the medium for delivering Buddha’s teachings, especially the Sutta Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka, and Abhidhamma Pitaka.
- The Tipitaka is composed of:
- Vinaya Pitaka: Ethical rules for monks and nuns.
- Sutta Pitaka: Discourses and teachings of Buddha.
- Abhidhamma Pitaka: Detailed analysis of mental and physical phenomena.
- Pali has a rich tradition of commentaries such as Atthasalini and Sammohavinodani, which aid in understanding Abhidhamma concepts.
|
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
- Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
- Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
- The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered the Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2016] With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
- The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
- Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to Enlightenment.
- Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary
Why in the News?
- The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has approved 5 crucial roads, including 4 that pass through the Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
- These include a route to Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), India’s northernmost military outpost in Ladakh, which also houses the country’s highest airstrip.
About Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary:
|
Details |
| Location |
Ladakh, India, situated in the eastern part of the Karakoram Range. |
| Area |
5,000 sq km (approximately), making it one of the largest high-altitude protected areas in India. |
| Altitude Range |
Ranges from about 4,200m to over 7,500m at the peak of Saltoro Kangri. |
| Climate |
- Characterized by a cold desert climate, with harsh winters, low temperatures, and limited vegetation.
- The region experiences snowfall during winter and temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F).
- Summer temperatures are also low, typically ranging between 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F).
|
| Biodiversity |
Home to species like the snow leopard, Tibetan antelope (chiru), Tibetan wild ass (kiang), ibex, and blue sheep (Bharal). The sanctuary also supports migratory bird species during certain times of the year. |
| Flora |
Sparse vegetation, with cold desert flora, including hardy grasses, shrubs, and medicinal plants. |
| Rivers |
Shyok and Nubra Rivers flow through the Ladakh region, providing crucial water sources for the sanctuary. |
| Significance |
Part of the larger trans-Himalayan ecosystem, offering a habitat for some of the rarest and most endangered species in the world. |
| Conservation Challenges |
Harsh climatic conditions, limited accessibility, and poaching threats to species like the chiru, whose undercoat is highly prized. |
| Tourism and Access |
Restricted due to its proximity to the international border with China. Special permits are required for researchers and travelers. |
PYQ:
[2020] Which one of the following protected areas is well-known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous?
(a) Kanha National Park
(b) Manas National Park
(c) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
(d) Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India-Canada Relations;
Why in the News?
India-Canada relations have reached a historic low after Justin Trudeau’s government accused Indian officials of being involved in “activities that pose a significant threat to public safety,” claims that New Delhi has strongly rejected as “preposterous.”
What specific allegations has Canada made against Indian diplomats?
- Violent Extremism: Canadian authorities claim that agents of the Government of India have been involved in violent extremist activities affecting both countries.
- Involvement in Criminal Activity: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have accused Indian diplomats and consular officials of being linked to homicides, acts of violence, and the use of organized crime to create a sense of insecurity among the South Asian community in Canada.
- Foreign Interference: Investigations suggest Indian officials leveraged their positions to collect information on certain individuals or groups in Canada, either directly or through proxies. This intelligence was allegedly shared with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in India.
- Threats and Coercion: The allegations include coercion tactics where individuals in Canada were reportedly threatened regarding their immigration status or faced risks to their family members in India.
- Connections with Organized Crime: There are claims that Indian intelligence conveyed information to criminal networks in India, allegedly linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is in custody in India. These networks are suspected of intimidating or targeting Canadians of South Asian descent.
- Involvement in Assassinations: The controversy began with the assassination of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, and was further linked to the killing of Sukhdool Singh Gill in Winnipeg. Both incidents allegedly have ties to Indian government directives.
How has India responded to Canada’s accusations?
- Denial of Allegations: India has categorically dismissed the allegations as “absurd” and “preposterous.” Indian authorities have rejected claims of any involvement in criminal activities in Canada or targeting the Sikh community.
- Accusations of Canadian Tolerance for Extremism: New Delhi has countered by accusing Canada of allowing anti-India elements and Khalistani separatist groups to operate freely, impacting India’s sovereignty and security.
- Denial of Diplomatic Cooperation: Reports suggest that while India initially agreed to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, it later denied visas to RCMP officials who intended to share evidence with Indian counterparts.
What actions have both countries taken in retaliation?
- Expulsion of Diplomats: Following Canada’s expulsion of an Indian diplomat, India retaliated by expelling a senior Canadian diplomat, escalating the diplomatic dispute.
- Visa Suspension: In response to the diplomatic tensions, India suspended visa services for Canadian citizens, citing security concerns for Indian diplomatic personnel in Canada.
- Reduced Diplomatic Presence: The crisis has resulted in both nations significantly scaling back their diplomatic staff, affecting consular services and visa issuance.
- Diplomatic Disengagement: India’s foreign minister has hinted at limiting diplomatic interactions with Canada, reflecting the deterioration in bilateral ties.
What are the potential implications of this diplomatic crisis for both sides?
- Bilateral Relations: The row represents a historic low in India-Canada relations. Both nations may experience prolonged diplomatic disengagement, adversely affecting cooperation in trade, education, and defence.
- Economic Impacts: Canada is a significant partner for Indian students and the Punjabi diaspora, which could face disruptions in visa issuance, immigration processes, and consular services.
- Geopolitical Ramifications: The dispute may strain India’s relations with Western allies, including the United States, which has strong ties with both India and Canada.
- Division in Diaspora Communities: The Sikh community in Canada could be further divided, with escalating tensions around pro-Khalistan activities. Allegations against Indian officials may also increase anti-India sentiments among diaspora groups.
Way forward:
- Diplomatic Engagement and De-escalation: Both countries should prioritize diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions, perhaps through neutral intermediaries or international platforms, ensuring that the crisis does not further damage long-term relations, trade, and people-to-people ties.
- Focused Cooperation on Extremism and Criminal Activity: A joint task force or collaborative investigation involving both nations could be set up to address concerns about violent extremism and criminal activity, fostering transparency and trust, while respecting sovereignty and legal frameworks.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to agricultural productivity;
Why in the News?
Government must embrace a new approach where the success of agriculture is defined by its capacity to nourish people, support livelihoods, and safeguard our planet for future generations.
What are the limitations of using yield as the sole indicator of agricultural success?
- Nutritional Quality Neglect as per ICAR (Indian Council for Agricultural Research): Focusing on yield has led to a decline in the nutritional profile of crops. High-yielding varieties often have lower micronutrient densities, as seen in reduced zinc and iron levels in rice and wheat.
- Increased Input Costs: Higher yield does not always correlate with increased farmer income. The cost of achieving additional yield may be high, especially as the response to fertilizers has declined significantly since the 1970s.
- Biodiversity Loss: The emphasis on a few high-yielding varieties leads to the loss of diverse, local crop varieties. For example, India has lost around 104,000 rice varieties since the Green Revolution.
- Environmental Impact: Intensive farming to maximize yield can degrade soil health, reduce water availability, and harm the ecosystem, making agriculture less sustainable.
- Reduced Resilience: The prioritization of yield over other factors makes crops less resilient to extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves.
How do other indicators complement yield in assessing agricultural sustainability?
- Nutritional Output Per Hectare: This indicator measures not just the quantity but the quality of the food produced, addressing nutritional security.
- Soil Health Metrics: Including soil biological activity and soil organic carbon in evaluations helps ensure long-term soil fertility and productivity.
- Water-Use Efficiency: Metrics like water-use efficiency track the amount of water required to produce crops, promoting conservation.
- Farm Biodiversity: Assessing crop diversity at the farm and regional levels (Landscape Diversity Score) improves resilience to pests, diseases, and climate variability.
- Economic Resilience Metrics: Indicators such as income diversification (through intercropping, livestock rearing, etc.) can help measure farmers’ economic stability.
- Environmental Impact Measures: Tracking parameters like carbon footprint and ecosystem services evaluates the broader impact of agricultural practices.
What practices can farmers adopt to improve sustainability beyond just increasing yield? (Way forward)
- Intercropping: Growing multiple crops together (e.g., sugarcane with vegetables) can provide year-round income and enhance soil health.
- Agroecological Approaches: Practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, and reduced pesticide use help maintain biodiversity and soil fertility.
- Water Management Techniques: Using methods like drip irrigation and AI-powered tools for optimal irrigation ensures better water use.
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combining biological, mechanical, and chemical control methods reduces reliance on harmful pesticides.
- Conservation Agriculture: Techniques such as no-till farming and mulching help improve soil structure and retain moisture.
- Adopting Climate-Resilient Varieties: Growing drought-tolerant or flood-resistant crop varieties helps mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increasing feminization of agriculture in India. (UPSC IAS/2014)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Shortcomings of AMRUT;
Why in the News?
U.S. economists Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson won the 2024 Economics Nobel for their research on how the formation of institutions influences a nation’s prosperity and economic success.
What are the key factors that explain why some nations are rich while others are poor?
- Quality of Institutions: According to the 2024 Nobel laureates, the primary determinant of economic success is the quality of a country’s institutions. Inclusive institutions, which ensure secure property rights, political freedoms, and economic opportunities, tend to promote growth.
- Rule of Law and Property Rights: When laws protect private property and are enforced impartially, individuals are incentivized to invest and engage in economic activities. Weak or corrupt legal systems can deter investments and slow growth.
- Political Stability and Governance: Countries with stable, democratic governance structures often provide a conducive environment for economic activities. In contrast, political instability and authoritarianism can hinder development.
- Geography and Natural Resources: Some scholars argue that geographic factors, such as access to trade routes and natural resource endowment, play a role in shaping a nation’s wealth. However, resource-rich nations can still struggle if their institutions are weak (resource curse).
- Human Capital and Education: Nations that invest in education and healthcare build a skilled and productive workforce, which can drive long-term economic growth.
- Technological and Industrial Development: The ability to adopt and innovate technologies is crucial for economic advancement, which historically facilitated the “Great Divergence” during the Industrial Revolution.
How do historical contexts and colonial legacies impact current economic outcomes?
- Colonial Institution Setup: Colonizers often set up institutions based on their motivations and local conditions. In places with harsh climates or high disease rates, extractive institutions were established to exploit resources quickly.
- Impact of Extractive Institutions: In countries where extractive institutions were set up, economic policies often focused on resource extraction and wealth concentration, which led to long-term stagnation. For instance, regions in Africa and South Asia that experienced extractive colonial policies face lasting developmental challenges.
- Path Dependence: Colonial institutions created trajectories that persisted even after independence. Post-colonial governments often inherited the same extractive structures, leading to continued corruption, inequality, and weak rule of law.
- Unequal Development: Colonialism exacerbated regional disparities by favouring some areas (urban centres, resource-rich regions) over others, affecting infrastructure development and economic integration.
What criticisms exist regarding the theories proposed by the Nobel laureates?
- Oversimplification of Institutional Role: Critics argue that attributing economic success primarily to institutions might ignore other important factors, such as culture, geography, and international trade dynamics, which also significantly shape economic outcomes.
- Neglect of Global Power Structures: Some scholars believe that focusing on domestic institutions alone overlooks the influence of global economic structures and the power imbalances that exist between countries, which can perpetuate inequality.
- Limited Consideration of Economic Policies: Critics point out that macroeconomic policies, market dynamics, and state-led development strategies also play a crucial role in determining economic trajectories, beyond institutional quality alone.
- Debate Over Inclusiveness of “Inclusive Institutions”: Some argue that even countries with ostensibly inclusive institutions (e.g., Western democracies) can exhibit extractive practices, such as unequal wealth distribution, labor exploitation, and environmental degradation.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Institutions with Reforms: Focus on reforming political and economic institutions to promote inclusiveness, transparency, and rule of law, ensuring secure property rights and equal opportunities for all citizens.
- Address Global Inequities and Support Development: International efforts should aim to reduce global economic disparities by promoting fair trade, debt relief, and development aid.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jordan River and its Valley
Why in the News?
Extremist groups held drone strikes on Israeli territory in the Jordan Valley (which forms Jordan’s border with Israel and the West Bank).
About Jordan Valley:
|
Details |
| Geography |
• Part of the Great Rift Valley, extending from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea.
• Forms a natural border between Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank.
• Low-lying, with parts below sea level, especially near the Dead Sea. |
| Climate |
• Semi-arid to arid, with hot summers and mild winters.
• Limited rainfall, necessitating irrigation for agriculture. |
| Significance |
• An essential agricultural region, growing citrus, dates, and vegetables.
• The Jordan River is a vital water source for agriculture and drinking water.
• Ecological corridor for migratory birds. |
| History |
• Rich in biblical and historical significance, including Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River.
• Archaeological sites from ancient civilizations like the Canaanites and Romans. |
| Geopolitical Aspects |
• Critical in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with strategic importance for security and border control.
• Vital for Palestinian economic development and a future state.
• Shared water resources create tensions between Israel, Jordan, and Syria. |
| Economic Activities |
• Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy.
• Tourism is also significant due to religious and historical sites. |
| Environmental Concerns |
• Water scarcity and the shrinking Dead Sea due to river diversion are major issues.
• Pollution and overuse of the Jordan River affect water quality and ecosystem health. |
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea?
(a) Syria
(b) Jordan
(c) Lebanon
(d) Israel |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India-UAE CEPA
Why in the News?
India has raised concerns over the increase in imports of silver products, platinum alloy, and dry dates from the UAE under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Issues Raised by India:
- The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has called for an urgent review of the India-UAE CEPA, citing concerns that the agreement allows unlimited imports of gold, silver, platinum, and diamonds with zero tariffs.
- GTRI claims that many of these imports do not meet Rules of Origin requirements and thus should not qualify for concessions.
- India’s gold and silver imports from the UAE increased by 210% to $10.7 billion in 2023-24.
- India allows customs duty concessions of 7% on silver and 1% on 160 metric tonnes of gold under the agreement.
- India also requested that the Indian Jewellery Exposition Centre in Dubai be classified as a Designated Zone to allow domestic jewellery manufacturers to benefit from concessional duties, including those not registered under UAE’s domestic regulations.
- India also requested the UAE to grant recognition to the i-CAS (India Conformity Assessment Scheme) Halal scheme to simplify the certification process and boost exports of animal products.
- The UAE expressed its willingness to review this request after consulting internal stakeholders, including federal tax authorities.
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India-UAE Trade Relations:
|
Details |
| Volume |
• The UAE is India’s 3rd largest trading partner with $83.65 billion in bilateral trade in 2023-24.
• Trade between India and UAE grew from $180 million in the 1970s to $85 billion in 2022-23. |
| Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) |
• Signed in February 2022, making India the first country to sign such an agreement with the UAE.
• CEPA has slashed tariffs on 80% of goods and offers zero duty access to 90% of Indian exports to the UAE. |
| Non-Oil Trade Target |
• The target of reaching $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030 is seen as achievable given current growth trends. |
| Investment from UAE |
• UAE’s investments in India are around $20-21 billion, with $15.5 billion as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
• The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has invested in projects like the NIIF Master Fund and renewable energy initiatives. |
| India’s Exports to UAE |
• UAE is India’s 2nd largest export destination after the US, with exports worth $31.61 billion in 2022-23.
• Key exports include petroleum products, gems, food items, textiles, and engineering goods. |
| India’s Imports from UAE |
• UAE is a critical partner for India’s energy security.
• India imports petroleum, gems, minerals, and chemicals from UAE.
• UAE is India’s 4th largest crude oil supplier and 2nd largest for LNG and LPG. |
PYQ:
[2022] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MQ-9B HALE UAV and its features
Why in the News?
India and the US concluded a $3.5 bn deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B armed High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).
About MQ-9B HALE UAV
- The MQ-9B drone is a version of the MQ-9 “Reaper” and has two models: Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian.
- It is built by the General Atomics.
- This drone can fly over 40,000 feet high, making it useful for watching the Himalayan border areas.
- It can stay in the air for up to 40 hours, perfect for long surveillance missions.
- The MQ-9B has advanced features like automatic take-off and landing, a system to avoid other objects, secure GPS, and encrypted communications.
- Deployment:
- The MQ-9B drones are planned to be deployed at four places, including INS Rajaji near Chennai and Porbandar in Gujarat, by the Indian Navy.
- The other two services will keep them jointly at two bases in Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh at Air Force bases due to long runway requirements.
Details of the Procurement:
- India is planning for 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians (eight each for the Indian Army and Air Force).
- The Indian Navy has leased two MQ-9As with the maiden flight taking place on November 21, 2020.
- As part of the deal, General Atomics will establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, contributing to offset obligations.
Significance of the deal
- The SeaGuardian model can help the Navy patrol large areas more economically than manned aircraft.
- For the Army and Air Force, these drones will help monitor movements along the borders, especially with China.
- It can offer 80% of a manned aircraft’s capabilities at 20% of the cost per hour.
PYQ:
[2020] What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 142
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court declined a PIL seeking directions under Article 142 to include sexual offences against men, trans-persons, and animals in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Supreme Court’s Observations:
- The petitioner argued that the new BNS omitted Section 377 of the IPC, which previously criminalized ‘unnatural sex’ and carnal intercourse involving a man, woman, or animal.
- In the Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) case, the Supreme Court struck down Section 377 to the extent that it criminalized consensual sexual acts between adults.
- Non-consensual homosexual acts remained punishable under this provision.
- The BNS does not include provisions criminalizing sexual offences against men, trans persons, and animals.
- During the hearing, the bench comprising CJI DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stated that:
- The Court cannot direct Parliament to create or reintroduce an offence.
- The creation of offences falls within the parliamentary domain, not under the court’s jurisdiction, even with Article 142.
|
About Article 142:
|
Details |
| Definition |
• Grants discretionary power to the Supreme Court to pass orders or decrees necessary for complete justice in matters before it.
• Allows the court to act beyond the limits of statutory law if required. |
| Purpose |
• Ensures justice is delivered in cases where regular laws may not provide adequate remedies.
• Aims to empower the Supreme Court to address extraordinary situations effectively. |
| Key Clauses |
• Article 142(1): Allows the Supreme Court to pass enforceable orders across India for doing complete justice.
• Article 142(2): Empowers the court to secure attendance, discovery of documents, or punishment for contempt. |
| Notable Cases |
• Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1989): Supreme Court awarded $470 million compensation, bypassing limitations of ordinary law.
• Ayodhya Case (2019): Directed the formation of a trust for Ram Mandir construction.• Liquor Sale Ban (2016): Imposed a 500-metre ban on liquor shops along highways using Article 142, extending it beyond central government orders. |
| Constructive Application |
• Invoked for environmental protection, such as in the Taj Mahal cleanup.
• Justice for undertrials by addressing systemic delays in the judicial process. |
| Controversies |
• Accusations of judicial overreach in certain cases, where actions have seemingly breached the separation of powers principle.
• Supreme Court Bar Association v. Union of India: Clarified that Article 142 should supplement, not replace the law. |
| Impact on Governance |
• Empowers the Supreme Court with a tool for upholding justice, but raises debates over checks and balances in a democratic system. |
PYQ:
[2019] With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional powers under Article 142. It could mean which one of the following?
(a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law.
(b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament.
(c) In the event of grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet.
(d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of Union Legislature. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Haber-Bosch process
Mains level: Issues related to fertilizer;
Why in the News?
One hundred million tonnes of nitrogen are extracted from the atmosphere and transformed into fertilizer through the Haber-Bosch process, adding 165 million tonnes of reactive nitrogen to the soil.
What is the Nitrogen molecule and how is it availed in Nature?
- The nitrogen molecule (N2) consists of two nitrogen atoms joined by a triple bond, sharing three pairs of electrons. This triple bond makes the molecule extremely stable and nearly inert, requiring a significant amount of energy (946 kJ/mol) to break.
- When the triple bond is broken, nitrogen atoms can form reactive nitrogen compounds like ammonia (NH3), ammonium (NH4+), or nitrates (NO3–).
- These compounds are essential for plant growth as they help synthesize enzymes, proteins, and amino acids.
- Lightning generates enough energy to break the N2 triple bond, producing nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2) that can combine with water vapor to form nitric and nitrous acids. These acids add reactive nitrogen to the soil through rainfall.
- Certain bacteria, such as Azotobacter and Rhizobia, fix atmospheric nitrogen through biological processes.
- Rhizobia forms symbiotic relationships with legumes, while Azolla, an aquatic fern, also fixes nitrogen via its symbiotic cyanobacterium.
What is the Haber-Bosch process?
- The Haber-Bosch process synthesizes ammonia by reacting nitrogen (N2) with hydrogen (H2) under high pressure (200 atm) and moderate temperature (200°C), using a catalyst (typically iron oxides).
- The process was developed by Fritz Haber, who found that high pressure and a suitable catalyst were key to converting nitrogen to ammonia efficiently. The setup was scaled up by Carl Bosch, leading to the first ammonia production plant in 1913.
What are the downsides of fertilizers?
- Environmental Impact: While synthetic nitrogen fertilizers have significantly increased food production, they have also led to negative environmental effects:
- Over-fertilization: Excess nitrogen application results in reactive nitrogen being released into the atmosphere, contributing to acid rain and soil degradation.
- Water Pollution: Nitrogen runoff from agricultural fields enters freshwater and coastal ecosystems, leading to eutrophication, which causes oxygen depletion and harms aquatic life.
- Human Health Concerns: High nitrogen levels in drinking water can pose health risks.
- Socio-Economic Challenges: Despite increased food production, issues such as starvation, malnutrition, and unequal food distribution persist, highlighting that technological solutions like fertilisers are insufficient; social and political action is also needed.
Way forward:
- Promote Sustainable Fertilizer Use: Encourage the adoption of precision agriculture techniques, such as soil testing and site-specific nutrient management, to optimize fertilizer application. This approach minimizes over-fertilization, reduces nitrogen runoff, and mitigates environmental damage.
- Strengthen Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Governments should implement and enforce policies to regulate nitrogen fertilizer use, ensuring that environmental safety standards are met.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to posthumous assisted reproduction;
Why in the News?
The Delhi High Court recently permitted a couple in their sixties to access their late son’s sperm sample, thus opening the door for posthumous assisted reproduction.
About the Present Case:
- The Delhi HC allowed a couple in their sixties to access their deceased son’s sperm sample for posthumous assisted reproduction, marking a significant legal ruling.
- The son, who passed away from cancer in 2020, had cryopreserved his sperm at a hospital. The hospital refused to release the sample without a court order since there were no guidelines for cases without a surviving spouse.
- The parents sought court intervention to carry on their son’s legacy, with the assurance that they would take full responsibility for any child born through surrogacy using the sperm sample.
What is the ART Act?
- The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, 2021 regulates fertility treatments and artificial insemination procedures in India.
- It provides guidelines for posthumous retrieval of sperm but is limited to cases where the deceased is married, allowing the surviving partner to seek sperm retrieval.
- The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare stated that the current legislation does not account for “postmortem grandparenthood” cases, where grandparents seek to use a deceased individual’s sperm.
What are present International practices?
- Uruguay: Allows posthumous reproduction with written consent valid for one year.
- Belgium: Permits posthumous reproduction after a six-month waiting period following death, and the request must be made within two years.
- Victoria, Australia: Requires written or oral consent before witnesses, approval from a “patient review panel,” and counseling for the parent.
- Canada and the UK: Both require written consent for posthumous reproduction.
- Israel: Limits the use of a deceased individual’s sperm to the female partner, with some exceptions allowing parents to use it. The Delhi High Court ruling referenced a similar case in Israel involving a 19-year-old soldier.
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Precedents and Concerns:
- Legal Precedent for Non-Spousal Claims: The Delhi High Court’s ruling sets a precedent where parties other than a spouse, such as parents, can claim the right to access a deceased individual’s cryopreserved reproductive material.
- This expands the legal interpretation beyond the scope typically covered by existing laws, which usually prioritize the spouse’s consent.
- Ethical and Consent Issues: Posthumous reproduction raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding the presumed consent of the deceased individual.
- Determining whether the deceased intended for their reproductive material to be used after death can be complex, especially when explicit written consent is not available.
- Child Welfare Considerations: The ruling highlights concerns about the future child’s welfare, who would grow up without one genetic parent.
Way forward:
- Establish Clear Legal Guidelines: Develop comprehensive legal frameworks for posthumous reproduction, addressing scenarios beyond spousal claims and ensuring explicit consent requirements to guide such cases.
- Prioritize Child Welfare and Ethical Considerations: Implement safeguards like mandatory counseling, ethical review panels, and consideration of the child’s best interests in decisions involving posthumous assisted reproduction.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Crime against venerable section;
Why in the News?
A recent Supreme Court ruling redefines the act of watching and downloading child pornography as a serious crime, rather than merely an adult indulgence.
Effectiveness of Existing Laws:
- Expansion of Legal Scope: The Supreme Court ruling corrected the limited interpretation of the Madras High Court by making downloading and storage of Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) a crime under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This strengthens the legal framework for child protection.
- Shift in Terminology: The judgment reframed “child porn” as CSEAM, emphasizing that it is a severe crime rather than an “adult indulgence,” thereby acknowledging the harm caused to children.
- Mandating Responsibilities for Intermediaries: The court placed stringent obligations on social media platforms to report CSEAM content to authorities in real-time, ensuring compliance with Indian law.
What new measures will be implemented to enhance Child Safety?
- Cybercrime as an Organized Crime: Explicitly defining cybercrimes involving CSEAM as economic and organized crimes in Indian law, including outlawing emerging offenses like AI-generated child sexual abuse content.
- Forensic Lab Establishment: A domestic forensic lab equipped with advanced technology will be set up to handle CSEAM cases, enabling faster response times to flagged content and coordination with law enforcement agencies.
- National Database on Sexual Offenders: Ensuring that individuals prosecuted for possession or sharing of CSEAM are added to a database and prohibited from employment in child-related sectors.
Collaboration among Stakeholders:
- Real-Time Reporting by Social Media Platforms: The judgment mandates social media companies and intermediaries to report instances of CSEAM to law enforcement immediately, facilitating rapid intervention.
- International Cooperation: Calls for the establishment of an International Database of Sex Offenders to strengthen cross-border coordination in tracking offenders. This includes working with international agencies like Interpol to streamline efforts.
- Role of Financial Institutions: Leveraging financial institutions to trace and disrupt the financial transactions that support networks involved in child exploitation.
Educational Initiatives:
- Awareness Programs on Digital Safety: Launching campaigns to educate parents, children, and communities about the dangers of online child exploitation and methods for protecting themselves.
- Training for Law Enforcement and Judiciary: Providing specialized training to authorities on identifying and prosecuting CSEAM cases, including the use of AI in the creation of exploitative material.
- School-Based Programs: Implementing programs in schools to teach children about safe online behavior and recognise signs of potential exploitation.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Legal and Technological Frameworks: Update laws to explicitly classify CSEAM-related cybercrimes as organized crimes and establish a state-of-the-art forensic lab for swift case handling and coordination with global agencies.
- Enhance Prevention and Awareness Initiatives: Implement nationwide digital safety education for children, parents, and authorities, while bolstering collaboration with international bodies and financial institutions to dismantle exploitation networks.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nobel Prize in Economics
Why in the News?
The Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics for 2024 was awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson for their research into why some nations are more prosperous than others.
What is the Nobel Economics Prize?
- Officially called the Bank of Sweden Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, established in 1968.
- It is not part of the original Nobel Prizes created by Alfred Nobel in 1895.
- Created by the Swedish central bank to honor Alfred Nobel’s legacy.
- Although not an original Nobel Prize, it is presented alongside the other Nobel Prizes on December 10, the anniversary of Nobel’s death.
- Includes a diploma, gold medal, and a one-million-dollar prize for the laureates.
|
This Year’s Nobel for Economics:
- The 2024 Nobel awardees’ research focused on the role of societal institutions in determining a country’s economic prosperity.
- The laureates distinguished between inclusive institutions, which promote democracy, rule of law, and protection of property rights, and extractive institutions, where power is concentrated and resources are exploited for the benefit of a few.
- Their study explains how inclusive institutions foster long-term economic growth by providing stability and incentives, while extractive institutions undermine growth by discouraging investment and innovation.
- The researchers also explored how European colonization shaped current economic disparities by establishing either inclusive or extractive institutions, with decisions influenced by factors such as mortality risks during colonization.
Significance of the study
- The study highlights the critical role of societal institutions in determining a country’s prosperity.
- It distinguishes between inclusive institutions that foster growth and extractive institutions that hinder it.
- It explains how colonial history shaped modern economic disparities.
- The research offers policy insights for building inclusive institutions to promote long-term prosperity.
- It has global implications for reducing inequality and promoting sustainable development.
PYQ:
[2019] The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order.’ Elaborate. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Bacteria
Why in the News?
- Due to increasing antimicrobial resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), many existing antibiotics are becoming less effective.
- As a result, researchers are studying Mtb to identify key proteins and design new drugs to target them.
What is Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)?
- Mtb is the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB), affecting the lungs and sometimes spreading to other organs.
- It spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing by an infected person.
- Mtb can remain dormant in the body for years without causing active disease.
- It infects macrophages, immune cells designed to destroy invaders, but instead, Mtb survives and multiplies inside them.
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What do various studies say?
- A 2024 CSIR-CCMB study showed that Mtb uses cysteine synthase enzymes to survive oxidative stress.
- A 2017 Karolinska Institute study identified 71 compounds that inhibit these enzymes, improving the effectiveness of antibiotics like isoniazid.
- Researchers found that Mtb’s ability to evade the immune system is due to its long evolution with humans.
- Other studies focus on Mtb’s phosphate and carbon metabolism, critical for its survival in hostile environments.
- Ways for effective medicine development:
- Target enzymes like CysK2 and CysM to weaken Mtb’s defence mechanisms.
- Study Mtb’s metabolic pathways to identify vulnerabilities for new drug development.
- Explore how Mtb develops antibiotic resistance and find ways to overcome it.
- Investigate how Mtb evades immune responses by manipulating immune cells.
- Combine new inhibitors with existing antibiotics to enhance treatment efficacy.
PYQ:
[2014] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: THAAD Defense System
Why in the News?
The US has announced that it will send its advanced THAAD (Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense) missile system to Israel, along with US troops to operate it.
What is THAAD?
- THAAD is an advanced missile defense system developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation in the 1990s.
- It is designed to intercept and destroy short-range (up to 1,000 km), medium-range (1,000–3,000 km), and intermediate-range (3,000–5,000 km) ballistic missile threats during their terminal phase of flight.
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- Uses “hit-to-kill” technology to destroy missiles.
- Can defend a larger area than the older Patriot Air and Missile Defense System.
- Provides a rapidly deployable capability both inside and outside the atmosphere.
India’s AD-1 missile interceptor under the Phase 2 Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system, is similar to the THAAD missile system used by the US.
- AD-1 and AD-2 interceptor missiles are developed to intercept ballistic missiles, including ICBMs, with ranges over 2,000 km.
- Swordfish LRTR, derived from Israel’s Green Pine radar, has an upgraded detection range of 1,500 km for enhanced missile tracking.
- The system intercepts both exo-atmospherically and endo-atmospherically, creating a comprehensive missile defence shield.
- It can manage multiple missile threats simultaneously, ensuring defence against complex attack scenarios.
- A floating test range is being developed for missile trials over the sea, enabling tests at higher altitudes and ranges up to 1,500 km.
- INS Dhruv, equipped with advanced radars, monitors missile tests and supports surveillance during defense operations.
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Significance of Sending THAAD to Israel
The decision to send THAAD to Israel is significant for several reasons:
- It is part of broader US military adjustments in the region to support Israel’s defense and protect Americans from attacks by Iran and Iranian-aligned militias.
- The deployment signals increased US involvement in the conflict.
| PYQ:
[2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?
(a) An Israeli radar system
(b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme
(c) An American anti-missile system
(d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nile River System
Why in the News?
A regional partnership of 10 countries announced that an agreement on the equitable use of Nile River water resources has come into effect, despite Egypt’s opposition.
Why discuss this?
- The legal status of the “cooperative framework” was confirmed by the African Union after South Sudan joined the treaty.
- The treaty is backed by the Nile Basin Initiative.
- Countries Involved:
- Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania have ratified the agreement.
- Egypt and Sudan have refused to sign.
- Congo abstained, while Kenya has yet to submit its ratification documents.
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About Nile River:
|
Details |
| Length |
Approximately 6,650 km (4,130 miles), making it the longest river in the world. |
| Tributaries |
White Nile (originating from Lake Victoria in Uganda) and Blue Nile (originating from Lake Tana in Ethiopia). |
| Countries Traversed |
11 countries: Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt. |
| Source |
- White Nile from Lake Victoria,
- Blue Nile from Lake Tana.
|
| Mouth |
Mediterranean Sea, forming the Nile Delta in Egypt. |
| Major Cities |
Includes Cairo, Khartoum, and Alexandria. |
| Key Dams |
- Aswan High Dam (Egypt), controls flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and forms Lake Nasser.
- Built in 1970 across the Nile in Aswan, Egypt; helps in irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation but also disrupts silt flow.
|
| Economic Importance |
Provides over 90% of water for Egypt and Sudan; vital for agriculture, fishing, industry, and energy production. |
| Disputes |
Between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over water rights, particularly due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). |
| Historical Treaties |
- 1929 and 1959 Nile Water Agreements allocated water mostly to Egypt and Sudan; upstream countries seek revision.
- Nile Basin Initiative (NBI): Established in 1999, it is a partnership among Nile Basin countries aimed at promoting cooperation, development, and sustainable management of the Nile’s resources.
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PYQ:
[2020] Consider the following pairs:
|
River |
Flows into |
| 1. |
Mekong |
Andaman Sea |
| 2. |
Thames |
Irish Sea |
| 3. |
Volga |
Caspian Sea |
| 4. |
Zambezi |
Indian Ocean |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2 and 4 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Significance of biobanks;
Why in the News?
Precision medicine is ushering in a new era of personalized healthcare, with its foundations taking shape during the completion of the Human Genome Project by scientists.
What is the current legal framework governing biobanks in India?
- Lack of Comprehensive Legislation: India lacks specific, comprehensive laws governing biobanks. The current framework consists of guidelines rather than enforceable laws, creating gaps in the regulation of biobanking practices.
- National Ethical Guidelines by ICMR: The Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) has issued guidelines on ethical practices in biomedical research involving human participants. However, these guidelines are not legally binding and do not address all aspects of biobanking, such as long-term storage and data sharing.
- Department of Biotechnology (DBT) Standards: The DBT has certain practices in place for data storage and analysis, but these also lack enforceability and do not fully cover issues such as informed consent and privacy.
- Absence of a Single Regulatory Authority: India currently does not have a dedicated regulatory authority to oversee biobanks, which leads to inconsistencies and limited oversight in biobanking activities.
How do privacy concerns impact biobank operations and precision medicine?
- Informed Consent Issues: Participants often give consent without detailed information about how their biological samples and associated data will be used, who will have access, and for how long. This lack of transparency raises privacy concerns.
- Genetic Data Privacy Risks: Genetic information can reveal intimate details about an individual’s health and predisposition to diseases, potentially affecting their family members. If data privacy is not robustly protected, it may lead to genetic discrimination in insurance or employment.
- Data Sharing Without Proper Regulation: In the absence of clear legal provisions, data or samples could be shared without proper consent, risking misuse by pharmaceutical companies or research organizations, including foreign entities.
- Impact on Public Trust: Weak data and privacy protections may reduce public willingness to participate in biobank projects, thus limiting the scale and diversity necessary for effective precision medicine research.
What are the ethical implications of biobanking practices in India?
- Ownership and Benefit Sharing: Without legal protections, there is ambiguity regarding the ownership of biological samples. Individuals contributing samples may not receive benefits from commercial applications resulting from their data, raising ethical concerns about fair compensation.
- Consent Transparency: Participants may not fully understand the scope of their consent, especially regarding future uses of their samples and data. This lack of clarity can be considered ethically problematic, as it may involve the exploitation of participants’ contributions.
- Risk of Misuse or Mismanagement: Inconsistent regulations and the absence of penalties for ethical violations create a risk of mishandling samples, unauthorized data access, and exploitation, which may compromise research integrity.
- Discrimination Risks: Genetic information obtained from biobanks could be used to discriminate against individuals based on their health risks or genetic traits, which raises concerns about ethical and legal safeguards.
Way forward:
- Establish Comprehensive Legislation: Develop and implement a comprehensive legal framework specifically governing biobanks, including clear guidelines on informed consent, data protection, ownership rights, and benefit sharing.
- Create a Regulatory Authority: Establish a dedicated regulatory authority to oversee biobank operations, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and legal requirements.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Definition of Rare Diseases
Mains level: Issues related to rare disease;
Why in the News?
The Delhi High Court recently issued directives to enhance the availability of “orphan drugs” to combat rare diseases.
About the Delhi High Court Verdict:
- The Delhi High Court issued directions aimed at improving the availability of “orphan drugs,” which are used to treat rare diseases.
- This intervention seeks to address challenges related to the high cost of these treatments and the barriers to access for patients with rare diseases in India.
Rare Diseases in India and Their Classification:
- Definition: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rare diseases are debilitating, lifelong conditions that affect 1 or fewer individuals in 1,000.
- Conditions Recognized as Rare Diseases in India: Approximately 55 conditions, including Gaucher’s disease, Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs), and certain muscular dystrophies, are classified as rare diseases.
- National Registry: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) manages the National Registry for Rare and Other Inherited Disorders (NRROID), which has documented 14,472 patients with rare diseases.
Classification of Rare Diseases in India:
- Group 1: Diseases that can be treated with a one-time curative procedure (e.g., certain enzyme replacement therapies).
- Group 2: Conditions requiring long-term or lifelong treatment, which are relatively less expensive and have documented benefits. Regular medical check-ups are necessary for patients.
- Group 3: Diseases for which effective treatments are available, but they are highly costly and require ongoing, lifelong therapy. Selecting beneficiaries for these treatments presents a challenge due to the high costs.
Current Funding Policy in India:
- National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD) 2021: Launched to provide financial support for the treatment of rare diseases. Patients receiving treatment at designated Centres of Excellence (CoE) can get financial assistance up to Rs 50 lakh.
- Centres of Excellence: The CoEs include institutions such as AIIMS in Delhi, PGIMER in Chandigarh, and the Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research at Kolkata’s SSKM Hospital.
- Crowdfunding and Voluntary Donations Portal (2022): The Health Ministry launched a digital platform that allows donors to contribute toward the treatment of rare disease patients at CoEs. The portal provides details about patients, their conditions, estimated treatment costs, and bank account information of the CoEs.
Did you know?
- Murine Typhus (a rare disease) is a flea-borne bacterial disease caused by Rickettsia typhi, transmitted through infected flea bites, primarily from rodents and not contagious between humans.
- A 75-year-old man from Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram was recently diagnosed with Murine Typhus after travelling to Vietnam and Cambodia.
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Challenges Associated with Orphan Drugs:
- Limited Treatment Options: Therapies are available for fewer than 5% of rare diseases, resulting in less than 10% of patients receiving disease-specific treatment.
- High Treatment Costs: Many existing therapies for rare diseases are prohibitively expensive, putting a significant financial burden on patients and their families.
- Regulatory Delays: Approval processes, such as those from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), can be slow. For instance, delays in approving US-based Sarepta Therapeutics’ medicines in India have affected the timely availability of treatments.
- Bureaucratic Hurdles: Decision-making delays and administrative red tape further complicate access to necessary drugs, impacting patient care.
- Challenges in Beneficiary Selection: Due to high treatment costs, identifying and prioritizing beneficiaries for financial assistance is difficult, potentially leaving some patients without support.
Way forward:
- Streamline Regulatory Approvals: Expedite the approval process for orphan drugs by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and establishing a fast-track mechanism for essential treatments, ensuring timely access to life-saving medications.
- Increase Financial Support and Expand Coverage: Enhance the funding cap under the National Policy for Rare Diseases and extend financial assistance to more patients, while encouraging public-private partnerships and innovative funding mechanisms like insurance coverage for rare disease treatments.
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