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  • [25 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: TB Control in India Calls for person-centered Solutions

    PYQ Relevance:Mains: 
    Q) “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. ( UPSC IAS/2021) 

    Q) Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieving ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC IAS/2018) 

    Prelims:
    In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of  (UPSC IAS/2020) 
    a) Digital security infrastructure
    b) Food security infrastructure
    c) Health care and education infrastructure
    d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Governance; Health Care; TB Elimination Program 2025;

    Mains: Governance; Health Care Syatem in India; Issues  related to TB and measures;

    Mentor comments:  Globally, and in India, tuberculosis (TB) continues to loom large as a public health challenge impacting millions. About 85% of people who develop TB can be successfully treated with drug regimens of 6 months. Universal health coverage (UHC) is necessary to ensure that all those with the disease can access these treatments. Today although India aims for 2025, the recent TB elimination policy in India necessitates person-centered solutions to address the challenges of tuberculosis effectively. 

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    On account of World TB Day (March 24), we must recognize the needs and interests of TB patients, and the communities must form the basis of disease elimination.

    Context:

    • The theme for World TB Day 2024: ‘Yes! We can end TB!‘.
    • The MoHFW along with various development partners of the Health Ministry launched the Tuberculosis (TB) Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in 2021 under the NSP India 2020–25 for TB Elimination in a major mission activity for ending the epidemic of TB by 2025.
    • Despite ambitious goals set by India’s health authorities to eliminate TB, the challenge is huge and progress is not fast enough. 
    Present Scenario:

    National Strategic Plan for Eliminating TB (2020-25): NSP India 2020–2025 intends to accelerate the national response to TB.
    The actions included:

    Provide top-priority reinforcements to the existing workforce;
    Scale up private provider engagement;
    Changes in approach from passive community to active community participation and ownership;
    Investment in TB surveillance staff and systems for accurate, complete and timely information;
    Deployment of new precision diagnostic tools;
    Support patients comprehensively throughout treatment;
    Redesign and pursue targeted active case finding;

    Deploy and evaluate ambitious plans to implement TB preventive treatment in households and other close contacts, children, People living with HIV (PLHIV), and other locally defined “high-risk” groups, using new and short regimens.

    Why there is a need for a person-centered approach to TB care and management?

    1) Need to Understand through shift paradigm:

    • TB as a human crisis: Tuberculosis is one of the ten major causes of mortality worldwide. The trend of increasing TB cases and drug resistance in India is very disturbing.
    • TB as a gendered crisis: Women and other gender minorities living in violently patriarchal societies face unique challenges in accessing timely diagnosis and treatment for TB. It is particularly difficult for gender minorities to seek care due to structural and social barriers, stigma in the health system, and widespread poverty.
    • TB as an economic challenge: The largest indirect cost of TB for a patient is income lost by being too sick to work. Studies suggest that on average three to four months of work time are lost, resulting in average lost potential earnings of 20% to 30% of annual household income.
    • TB as a Social and Environmental Challenge: For centuries, TB has been linked anecdotally with environmental risk factors that go hand-in-hand with poverty: indoor air pollution, tobacco smoke, malnutrition, overcrowded living conditions, and excessive alcohol use.

    2) Care needs to be more Humane 

    • Need for Strengthening Community-Based Care: Efforts are needed to strengthen community-based TB care models, empowering frontline healthcare workers to deliver comprehensive care that is closer to where patients live.
    • Need for Mental Support: This is important as survivor narratives tell us the stigma, discrimination, and mental stress they go through, not to mention the side effects of treatment.
    • Need to address discrimination: While TB can affect people of any class, religion, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status, it disproportionately affects the most marginalized in society, including children, the urban poor, prisoners, and people living with HIV/AIDS. It is needed to address that disease has gone beyond being a health crisis alone.

    How technology can be tapped to address these challenges?

    • Leveraging technology and innovation: The adoption of AI and digital health solutions for TB diagnosis, adherence, and surveillance can revolutionize the way TB care is delivered and accessed in the country.
    • Working on treatments: The path to TB elimination in India requires a concerted effort to prioritize person-centered care, address social determinants of health, and embrace innovation. By investing in developing better vaccines, we can hope to ultimately eliminate this airborne disease.
      • The System for TB Elimination in the Private Sector (STEPS) has been introduced as a low-cost solution to address gaps in quality care for TB patients accessing the private sector.

    Conclusion: By adopting a holistic and person-centered approach, India can overcome the barriers that stand in the way of TB control and create a healthier future for all its citizens.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/tb-control-in-india-calls-for-person-centred-solutions/article67988183.ece

  • Charting women’s trajectory in parliaments globally

    Why in the news? 

    The year 2024 is being hailed as the biggest year for democracy, with 45% of the global population preparing to exercise their voting rights or having already cast their ballots

    Context:

    • Women’s representation in political spheres improved in the latter half of the 20th century, with significant progress made in many nations in securing voting rights and parliamentary seats, and in climbing to the highest political offices.
    • Despite substantial gains, women continue to constitute a minority in most parliamentary bodies and are rarely seen in top political leadership positions.

    Major two observations in recent times:

    1) The share of countries with universal Right to Vote: Initially, there was a significant gap between men and women regarding political participation, with men gaining voting rights while women were excluded in many nations.

    • New Zealand’s Role: New Zealand stands out as a pioneer in breaking this pattern by granting universal suffrage to women in 1893, thus allowing them to vote alongside men.
    • Widening Gap: Despite women gaining suffrage in more countries, the gap between male and female political participation widened in the early 20th century. Men’s voting rights continued to expand while women remained excluded in many places.
    • World War II: By the onset of World War II, men had voting rights in a higher proportion of countries compared to women. The disparity was stark, with men having voting rights in one out of three countries, while women had them in only one out of six countries.
    • Rapid Closure of the Gap: The gap between male and female political participation rapidly closed after the discrimination against women in voting rights ended in many countries. Both men and women gained the right to vote in many nations, leading to greater equality in political participation.

    2) Gender gap in the Chief-executive roles: “Chief-executive” refers to the head of state or head of government, depending on who holds more power within the political system. While women’s representation in parliament is crucial, it’s equally important for women to hold the highest political office in a country.

    • Gender Disparity in Political Chief Executives: Data from the V-Dem project indicates a significant gender gap in political chief executives. At any given time, the vast majority of political chief executives have been men.
    • Limited Increase in Female Leadership: Over the last three decades, there has been a slight increase in the proportion of countries led by women. However, the overall share of countries where women occupy the post of chief executive remains low, accounting for less than 10%.
    • Persistent Gender Disparity: Despite some progress, the data underscores the persistent gender disparity in holding the highest political office globally. Women continue to be underrepresented in top political leadership positions.

    Global Scenario for women’s share as a Parliamentarian:

    • Absence of Women in National Parliaments: In the early 20th century, women were largely absent from national parliaments across the globe.
      • Norway marked a significant milestone in 1907 when women first entered parliament. Nearly 10% of the parliamentary seats were occupied by women, indicating progress in political representation.
    • Surge in Women Entering Parliament: The latter half of the 20th century witnessed a notable increase in the number of women entering parliaments worldwide.
      • This trend of increasing female representation in parliaments accelerated notably in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
    • Rwanda’s Remarkable Achievement: Rwanda stands out as a remarkable example, with its parliamentary composition surpassing the 50% mark for women’s representation in 2008. This achievement set a notable precedent for gender equality in political representation.
    • Other Countries’ Progress: In 2008, several other countries, including Argentina, Cuba, Finland, and Sweden, had significant proportions of women parliamentarians, ranging between 40% and 50%. This indicates a global trend toward greater gender parity in political representation.

    Recent Trend since 2022:

     

    • Low Representation in Many Countries: Despite advancements, women’s political representation remains constrained and inconsistent globally. Women constitute approximately half of the population but are significantly underrepresented in parliaments worldwide.
    • Persistent Gender Gap: Only a few countries have achieved gender parity in political representation, where women make up about half of all representatives. In the majority of countries, the share of women in parliament remains low. As of 2022, in nearly 60 countries, women’s representation in parliament was 20% or less.
    • Extreme Cases: In three countries, no women are represented in parliament, indicating extreme gender disparities in political participation and representation.

    Suggestive Measures to improve Women’s representation in Parliament:

    • Implement Quotas for Female Representation: Setting quotas for the number of women parliamentarians has proven effective in increasing female representation. Countries with quotas have significantly higher percentages of women in parliament compared to those without quotas
    • End Violence Against Women in Politics: Gender-based violence, including physical, sexual, and psychological violence, is a significant barrier for women in politics. Establishing measures to combat violence, harassment, and hate speech is crucial to creating a safer environment for women parliamentarians
    • Increase Women’s Participation in Media: Addressing gender stereotypes perpetuated by the media is essential. Media coverage often focuses on irrelevant aspects of women politicians’ lives, reinforcing stereotypes. Educating journalists and monitoring media coverage can help combat gender bias and promote a more balanced portrayal of women in politics
    • Expand Participation through Women’s Caucuses: Women’s parliamentary caucuses provide a platform for women to amplify their voices and influence in parliament. Supporting these caucuses with resources, leadership, and organizational backing can empower women to promote legal reforms and advocate for gender equality in politics

    Significant steps taken to improve women’s participation in parliament

    • Gender Quota Legislation: India has approved a landmark bill reserving 33% of seats in parliament for women. This quota is expected to lead to the promotion of women-friendly policies related to health, education, and jobs.  
    • Political Will and Proactive Measures: Despite challenges and slow progress, there is a growing recognition of the importance of women’s representation in Indian politics. Some political parties are taking proactive measures to nominate more women for assembly and parliament elections. However, there is a need for greater political will to address gender disparities and ensure a more inclusive political landscape
    • Empowerment through Representation: Increasing women’s representation in political parties and building a pipeline of female leaders are crucial steps to enhance women’s political participation.

    Conclusion: Despite strides, global women’s political representation remains low. Quotas, combatting violence, media reform, and supporting women’s caucuses are vital to enhancing female participation in parliaments and fostering inclusive democracy.

    Practice questions for the Mains

    Q) Discuss the trajectory of women’s representation in global parliaments, highlighting persistent gender disparities and measures to enhance female participation. (250 words)

     

  • On the resurgence of Mumps in Kerala

    Why in the news? 

    Mumps, an acute viral infection that historically affects children, has been spreading like wildfire in Kerala, for the past few months.

    Context:

    • Despite being a vaccine-preventable disease, mumps has never been a part of the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) because of the disease’s no-mortality profile and the perception that it has low public health significance.
    • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccination strategies targeting mumps control should be closely integrated with existing measles elimination and rubella control.

    About: Mumps is an airborne viral disease primarily affecting children and adolescents. It manifests with symptoms like fever, headache, and painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands on both sides of the face.

    Is it a cause for concern? 

    • Self-Limiting Disease: Mumps is described as a self-limiting disease, meaning it typically resolves on its own with rest and symptomatic management within about two weeks.
    • Underreporting: Due to approximately half of infected children developing classical symptoms and around 30% remaining asymptomatic, many cases of mumps go unreported. This suggests that reported cases are likely a significant underestimation of the actual prevalence in the community.
    • Public Health Perspective: Historically, measles has been prioritized in public health efforts due to its potential for severe morbidity and mortality, overshadowing the attention given to mumps.
    • Emerging Concerns: Despite being less prioritized, recent reports indicate a surge in mumps cases, including complications such as encephalitis, epilepsy, aseptic meningitis, and acute pancreatitis, particularly at Kozhikode Medical College hospital.
    • Impact on Reproductive Health: Mumps can affect the gonads (reproductive glands) in both males and females. In males, it poses the rare but significant risk of infertility or reduced sperm count in the long term.

    Why is the mumps vaccine not part of the national immunization schedule?

    • Lack of Mortality: Mumps typically does not result in fatalities, further contributing to the belief that it may not warrant inclusion in routine vaccination schedules.
    • Underestimation of Public Health Significance: Despite arguments from organizations like the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) that mumps’ public health significance is underestimated, there has been insufficient evidence or data to prompt its inclusion in national immunization programs.
    • Poor Documentation and Lack of Studies: Limited documentation of clinical cases, complications, and follow-up data, as well as a scarcity of published studies on mumps, have hindered efforts to fully understand its impact and advocate for its vaccine inclusion.
    • Absence of Nationally Representative Data: The lack of nationally representative data on the incidence of mumps in India makes it challenging to assess its burden accurately and advocate for vaccine inclusion based on epidemiological evidence.
    • Limited Information on Long-Term Morbidity: While mumps is known to have some impact on reproductive organs, there is very little information available on its actual long-term morbidity profile, further complicating decisions regarding vaccine inclusion.

    How can the current outbreaks be controlled?

    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate the community about mumps, its symptoms, transmission, and the importance of isolation. Emphasize the significance of vaccination and maintaining good hygiene practices.
    • Improve Immunization Coverage: Strengthen efforts to improve general immunization coverage, especially targeting unimmunized children and adolescents. Ensure accessibility to vaccination services in all communities.
    • Strict Isolation Measures: Enforce strict isolation measures for mumps patients for the full three-week duration to limit disease transmission. Provide clear guidelines to healthcare facilities and schools on managing mumps cases and preventing spread.
    • School Closure: Consider temporary closure of schools during outbreaks to prevent further transmission, especially if a significant number of cases are reported among students. Use the summer break as an opportunity to break the chain of transmission.
    • Enhanced Surveillance and Reporting: Implement robust surveillance systems to promptly detect and report mumps cases. Ensure healthcare providers are vigilant in diagnosing and reporting suspected cases to public health authorities for timely intervention.
    • Contact Tracing and Monitoring: Conduct thorough contact tracing of individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed mumps cases. Monitor them for symptoms and enforce isolation measures if necessary to prevent secondary transmission.
    • Healthcare Provider Training: Provide training to healthcare providers on mumps diagnosis, management, and reporting protocols. Ensure they are equipped to identify and manage cases effectively.
    • Community Engagement: Engage with community leaders, schools, and parents to encourage cooperation with control measures. Encourage individuals to seek medical care promptly if they develop symptoms suggestive of mumps.

    Way Forward:

    • Assessment of Vaccine Effectiveness: Despite the lack of studies on the effectiveness of the mumps vaccine in India, global data suggests that two doses of the MMR vaccine can provide protection ranging from 70% to 95%, provided that coverage is high.
    • Integration with Measles and Rubella Control: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends integrating mumps vaccination strategies with existing efforts for measles elimination and rubella control. This ensures a comprehensive approach to vaccine-preventable diseases.
    • Consideration of Regional Factors: Evaluate regional factors influencing vaccine effectiveness, disease burden, and immunization coverage. Tailor vaccination strategies accordingly to address the specific needs and challenges faced in Kerala.
    • Consultation with Experts and Stakeholders: Engage with public health experts, immunization specialists, and stakeholders to review the evidence, assess the impact of different vaccination strategies, and determine the most effective approach moving forward.
    • Monitoring and Surveillance: Strengthen monitoring and surveillance systems to track mumps cases, vaccine coverage, and vaccine effectiveness. This data will be crucial for evaluating the impact of vaccination strategies and making informed decisions.
    • Policy Decision: Based on the evidence and expert recommendations, make a policy decision regarding the inclusion of MMR vaccine in the Universal Immunization Programme. Consider factors such as vaccine availability, cost-effectiveness, and logistics.

    Conclusion: Addressing the resurgence of mumps in Kerala necessitates a comprehensive approach, including vaccination integration, public awareness, strict isolation measures, and policy review guided by expert consultation and regional considerations.

  • What are the rules for elephant transfers? | Explained

    Why in the news?

    The Centre has notified a set of rules called the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024 that liberalises the conditions under which elephants may be transferred within or between States.

    What are the rules around the transfer and transport of elephants?

    • Legal Protection: Elephants are classified as Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, prohibiting their capture or trade, whether wild or captive, except for specific purposes.
    • Special Purposes: Section 12 of the Act allows for the translocation of Schedule I animals for special purposes such as education, scientific research, wildlife population management, and specimen collection for recognized zoos/museums.
    • Ownership of Captive Elephants: Captive elephants, due to their historical roles in forest management, timber transport, and religious ceremonies, fall under a special category and can be owned. However, strict rules govern their transfer.
    • Permission Requirement: Section 40(2) of the Wildlife Protection Act mandates written permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden for the acquisition, possession, and transfer of captive elephants.
    • Amendment in 2021: In 2021, the Environment Ministry introduced an amendment allowing the transfer of elephants for “religious or any other purposes,” departing from the previous restriction against transactions of a commercial nature.
    • Controversy: The broad interpretation of the amendment raised concerns among activists and researchers regarding potential trafficking and illegal commercial transactions. Opposition from a standing committee, led by former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh, was overruled, and the amendment was passed into law.

    What do the updated rules say?

    • Reasons for Transfer: New relaxations allow for the transfer of captive elephants when the current owner is unable to maintain them or when the Chief Wildlife Warden deems it necessary for better upkeep.
    • Approval Process: Before a transfer within the state, the elephant’s health must be verified by a veterinarian, and the Deputy Conservator of Forests must confirm the suitability of both the current and prospective habitats. The Chief Wildlife Warden decides whether to approve or reject the transfer based on these documents.
    • Interstate Transfer: Similar conditions apply if the transfer involves moving the elephant outside of a state. The elephant’s genetic profile must be registered with the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
    • Permission Process: Previously, transferring an elephant across states required permissions from the Chief Wildlife Wardens of every state the elephant would pass through. Now, only permissions from the originating and recipient states are necessary for interstate transfers.

    What do the updates mean?/ concerns about the Wildlife Protection Act and the establishment of private zoos 

    • Lax Enforcement for Elephants: While the Wildlife Protection Act imposes restrictions on trafficking of wild animals, including elephants, critics argue that enforcement has become lax, particularly in the case of elephants.
    • Establishment of Private Zoo: The establishment of India’s largest private zoo in Jamnagar, Gujarat, affiliated with the Reliance Foundation, has raised questions about the treatment and sourcing of elephants.
    • Purpose of the Zoo: While the zoo is described as a rescue center aimed at rehabilitating traumatized and injured elephants, among other wildlife, concerns have been raised about its actual operations.
    • Controversial Hosting: The zoo reportedly hosts around 200 elephants, including “healthy animals,” which has sparked controversy. Critics question the need to host healthy animals in a rescue center and raise doubts about the welfare and origins of these elephants.
    • Source of Elephants: There are concerns that some of the elephants in the zoo may have been sourced from the wild rather than being captive-bred or rescued. This raises ethical and conservation concerns about the impact on wild elephant populations.

    Conclusion: Address lax enforcement of wildlife protection laws for elephants. Ensure transparency in private zoo operations and strict adherence to ethical sourcing guidelines. Prioritize conservation efforts and welfare of captive and wild elephant populations.

    PYQ Mains-

    Q- How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (250 Words, 15 Marks)

  • IAU approves ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ as name for Chandrayaan-3 Landing Site

    What is the news?

    The International Astronomical Union (IAU) working group for Planetary System Nomenclature recently sanctioned the name ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for the landing site of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander, marking a significant milestone in planetary nomenclature.

    About International Astronomical Union (IAU)

    • The IAU was founded on July 28, 1919, during the Constitutive Assembly held in Brussels, Belgium.
    • Its creation was prompted by the need for international collaboration in astronomy, especially after the devastation caused by World War I.
    • It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
    • IAU is now headquartered in Paris, France.

    Major Activities and Initiatives

    • General Assembly: The IAU holds a general assembly every three years in varying parts of the world at which professional astronomers meet to discuss research, new cooperative ventures, and similar matters of professional interest.
    • Astronomical Nomenclature: IAU standardizes the nomenclature of celestial bodies, features, and phenomena. It maintains several working groups dedicated to naming conventions for stars, planets, asteroids, and other objects.
    • Research and Collaboration: It promotes international cooperation in astronomical research and supports initiatives such as observational campaigns, data sharing, and joint projects.
    • Education and Outreach: It is actively involved in promoting astronomy education and public outreach efforts worldwide. It supports educational programs, workshops, and resources for students, teachers, and the general public.

    Membership

    1. IAU membership spans 92 countries. Out of those countries, 85 are National Members.
    2. India is represented by the Astronomical Society of India (ASI).
    3. Its members are professional astronomers from all over the world, at the D. level and beyond, who are active in professional research, education, and outreach in astronomy.

    IAU Nomenclature  Criteria

     

    • Rule 4: It emphasizes the international nature of solar system nomenclature and encourages equitable representation of names from diverse ethnic groups, countries, and genders.
    • Rule 9: The IAU adheres to Rule 9, prohibiting names with political, military, or religious connotations, except for historical political figures prior to the 19th century.
    • Rule 11: It emphasizes that names should be unique within the context of celestial nomenclature to prevent confusion.

    About Statio Shiv Shakti’

    • Prime Minister announced the name ‘Shiv Shakti’ for the Chandrayaan-3 landing site in August, 2023, reflecting the significance of Indian mythology and cultural heritage.
    • It is located at the co-ordinates 69.373°S 32.319°E and lies between the lunar craters Manzinus C and Simpelius N.
    • The name ‘Shiv Shakti’ symbolizes the masculine-feminine duality of nature, embodying strength and resolution, with a profound connection to India’s diverse cultural landscape.

    PM previously named the Chandrayaan-2 crash site ‘Tiranga point’, while former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam suggested ‘Jawahar Point’ for the Chandrayaan-1 impact probe landing site, reflecting a tradition of honoring national figures and symbols.

     

    PYQ:

    2021: Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years?​

    1. Distances among stellar bodies do not change.​
    2. Gravity of stellar bodies does not change.​
    3. Light always travels in straight line.​
    4. Speed of light is always same.​

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about International Astronomical Union (IAU):

    1. It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
    2. India is represented by the ISRO in the IAU.

    Which of the given statements are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • Postal Ballot Voting: Eligibility and Process for Lok Sabha elections 2024

    Why in the news?

    The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced that media persons covering “polling day activities” are now eligible to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024 and state Assembly polls through postal ballots.

    What are Postal Ballots?

    • Postal ballots, also known as mail-in ballots, allow registered voters to cast their votes by mail instead of physically going to a polling station.
    • It is governed by the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961.
    • This system serves as a convenient alternative for individuals unable to vote in person due to various circumstances, such as being away from their home constituency, facing a disability, or performing essential services on Election Day.

    Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS)

     

    • The Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 was amended in 2016 to allow service voters to use the ETPBS. Under this system, postal ballots are sent electronically to registered service voters.
    • The service voter can then download the ETPB (along with a declaration form and covers), register their mandate on the ballot and send it to the returning officer of the constituency via ordinary mail.
    • The post will include an attested declaration form (after being signed by the voter in the presence of an appointed senior officer who will attest it).

    Who is eligible to cast their vote through postal ballots?

    Eligible electors who can opt to vote through postal ballots include:

    • Special voters: It includes President of India, Vice President, Governors, and Union Cabinet ministers, Speaker of the House and government officers on poll duty.
    • Service voters: Members of the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and government employees deployed on election duty far from their home constituencies.
    • Absentee voters: Individuals unable to vote in person due to reasons like work commitments, illness, or disability. Senior citizens above 80 years are also included.
    • Electors on election duty: Government officials and polling staff assigned duties at polling stations other than their own.
    • Electors under preventive detention: Individuals detained under preventive custody orders during the election period.
    • Divyangjans: In October 2019, the Ministry of Law and Justice amended the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, lowered the age from 85 to 80 and allowed Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to cast votes through postal ballots in the 2020 Delhi Assembly polls.
    • Essential services covering polling day activities: Media persons with authorisation letters from the EC and those involved in essential services such as metros, railways, and healthcare have the option to vote using postal ballots in Lok Sabha and four state Assembly polls.

    Applying for a postal ballot

    • To apply for a postal ballot, eligible voters must apply, Form 12 D, to the returning officer (RO) of their respective constituency.
    • The application typically requires personal details, voter identification information, and the reason for seeking a postal ballot.
    • For service voters, the RO sends the postal ballot paper through the record office, directly or through the Ministry of External Affairs for service voters serving outside India.
    • For senior citizens, a team of two polling officials, a videographer, and security personnel will visit the residence of the elector to facilitate this process.

    What is the process of postal voting?

    • Receiving the postal ballot: Once approved, the RO sends the postal ballot to the voter’s registered address, including the ballot paper, declaration form, secrecy sleeve, and pre-paid return envelope.
    • Marking the ballot: Voters mark their preferred candidate(s) on the ballot paper in the secrecy sleeve to ensure confidentiality.
    • Completing the declaration form: Voters fill out the declaration form, providing their signature and other relevant details.
    • Sealing the envelope: Voters seal the marked ballot paper and declaration form inside the secrecy sleeve and place it into the pre-paid return envelope.
    • Returning the postal ballot: Voters affix the postage stamp and mail the return envelope to the designated address within the specified time.

    Counting of postal ballots

    • Postal ballots are counted separately from votes cast at polling stations.
    • On the designated counting day, postal ballots are collected by postal authorities and brought to the counting centre.
    • The RO and election officials scrutinise postal ballots for validity and integrity, adding valid ballots to the respective candidate’s vote count.

     

    PYQ:

    Q.For election to the Lok Sabha, a nomination paper can be filed by-

    1. Anyone residing in India.
    2. A resident of the constituency from which the election is to be contested.
    3. Any citizen of India whose name appears in the electoral roll of a constituency.
    4. Any citizen of India.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Q.Consider the following statements:

    1. The right to cast vote is not a fundamental right
    2. NRI settled in foreign land can become an elector in the electoral roll in India
    3. Individuals in lawful custody of the police and those serving a sentence of imprisonment after conviction cannot vote

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 and 3
    3. 1 and 3
    4. 1,2 and 3

  • Clinical Trials for MTBVAC Tuberculosis Vaccine in India

    What is the news?

    • Bharat Biotech, in collaboration with Spanish biopharmaceutical company Biofabri, has initiated clinical trials for the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Vaccine (MTBVAC) in India, marking a significant milestone in TB vaccine development.
    • The only currently available TB vaccine, the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine (BCG), was developed 100 years ago and is less effective.

    About MTBVAC

    • MTBVAC is a unique TB vaccine based on a genetically modified form of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, containing all antigens present in human-infecting strains, unlike the BCG vaccine.
    • It is developed in the laboratory of the University of Zaragoza with contributions from Dr. Brigitte Gicquel of the Pasteur Institute, Paris.
    • MTBVAC is designed to offer superior and potentially longer-lasting protection compared to the BCG vaccine, particularly for newborns and in preventing TB in adults and adolescents.

    Objectives of Clinical Trials in India

    • Safety and Immunogenicity: The ongoing trials in India aim to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of MTBVAC, with plans for a pivotal Phase 3 trial in 2025.
    • Population Significance: Studying the vaccine’s efficacy in India, with its high TB burden, is crucial for advancing TB vaccine research and addressing the global TB epidemic.

    What is Tuberculosis?

    • Tuberculosis is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
    • Robert Koch discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis which causes TB, and his discovery opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease.
    • It can practically affect any organ of the body.
    • The most common ones are lungs, pleura (lining around the lungs), lymph nodes, intestines, spine, and brain.

    Transmission:

    It is an airborne infection that spreads through close contact with the infected, especially in densely populated spaces with poor ventilation.

    Symptoms:

    Common symptoms of active lung TB are cough with sputum and blood at times, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever and night sweats.

    Treatment Facilities in India:

    • DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-Course) regimen: It is the recommended treatment approach for TB by the WHO. Patients receive a combination of four antibiotics: isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. These drugs are usually administered daily for the first two months of treatment, followed by a continuation phase with isoniazid and rifampicin for an additional four to seven months.
    • Nikshay Poshan Yojana (2018): It was launched to support every Tuberculosis (TB) Patient by providing a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of Rs 500 per month for nutritional needs.

    Issues in TB Treatment: Drug Resistance

    Drug resistance emerges when anti-TB medicines are used inappropriately, through incorrect prescription by health care providers, poor quality drugs, and patients stopping treatment prematurely.

    1. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB): Itis a form of TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to isoniazid and rifampicin, the 2 most powerful, first-line anti-TB drugs. MDR-TB is treatable and curable by using second-line drugs such as
    2. Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB): Itis a more serious form of MDR-TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to the most effective second-line anti-TB drugs, often leaving patients without any further treatment options.

     

    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.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    With reference to the Tuberculosis (TB), consider the following statements:

    1. TB is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
    2. It only targets Lungs.
    3. Nikshay Poshan Yojana aims for TB support is essentially a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

    How many of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. One
    2. Two
    3. Three
    4. None

  • [pib] Project ANAGRANINF

    What is the news?

    • The Technology Development Board (TDB) has allocated a grant of ₹75 Lakhs for the project “ANAGRANINF – Development of a Novel Class of Antibiotics against Gram-Negative Bacterial-Infections,” totalling ₹1.5 crores.

    What is Project ANAGRANINF?

    • Project ANAGRANINF is titled “Development of a Novel Class of Antibiotics Against Gram-Negative Bacterial-Infections.”
    • It is a collaborative initiative involving M/s Peptris Technologies Pvt. Ltd. and the Foundation for Neglected Disease Research (FNDR) in India, along with ABAC THERAPEUTICS SL from Spain.
    • The primary objective of the project is-
    1. To develop a novel antibiotic capable of inhibiting the FabI enzyme and
    2. Combating critical gram-negative pathogens.
    • Project ANAGRANINF aims to produce a series of compounds with enhanced efficacy against gram-negative bacterial infections.
    • The project aims to identify a candidate molecule that meets WHO’s innovation criteria, ensuring a new chemical structure, no cross-resistance with existing antibiotic classes, and a novel mechanism of action.

    About the Candidate Molecule ‘MMV1578564’

    The selected hit molecule from the project, MMV1578564, has exhibited promising activity against gram-negative pathogens, providing a foundation for further research and development efforts.

    Back2Basics:

    1. Gram-Negative Bacteria:
      • Gram-negative bacteria have a thin peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall, which is located between the outer and inner membranes.
      • They stain pink or red when subjected to the Gram staining technique.
      • Gram-negative bacteria are generally more resistant to antibiotics due to the presence of an outer membrane that acts as a barrier against certain antibiotics.
      • Examples of gram-negative bacteria include Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
      • They are known to cause infections like pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound infections, and meningitis in healthcare settings
    2. Gram-Positive Bacteria:
      • Gram-positive bacteria have a thick layer of peptidoglycan in their cell wall, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining technique.
      • They appear purple or blue under a microscope after staining.
      • Gram-positive bacteria are generally more susceptible to antibiotics because their thick peptidoglycan layer allows antibiotics to penetrate more easily.
      • Examples of gram-positive bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, and Clostridium difficile.
      • Some examples of diseases caused by Gram-positive bacteria include anthrax, diphtheria, enterococcal infections, erysipelothricosis, and listeriosis.These bacteria can cause a range of infections from food poisoning to serious respiratory diseases and may require specific antibiotics for treatment.

     

    PYQ:

    2021: Consider the following:​

    1. Bacteria​
    2. Fungi​
    3. Virus​

    Which of the above can be cultured in artificial/synthetic medium?​

    1. 1 and 2 only ​
    2. 2 and 3 only​
    3. 1 and 3 only ​
    4. 1, 2 and 3​

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The recently launched Project ‘ANAGRANINF’ deals with:

    1. Agricultural Grant
    2. Artificial Intelligence
    3. Antibiotics Development
    4. None of these

  • ISRO successfully conducts ‘Pushpak’ Reusable Landing Vehicle Landing

    What is the news?

    • The ISRO has conducted the Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV) LEX 02 landing experiment at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga. It was lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released from an altitude of 4.5 km.
    • This experiment marks a significant milestone in ISRO’s pursuit of reusable space technology.

    About Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV)

    • The Pushpak RLV is a winged vehicle, equipped with aerodynamic surfaces that enable controlled flight during re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.
    • The RLV is designed to autonomously land on a designated runway after completing its mission in space, thereby demonstrating India’s capability in autonomous space vehicle landing.
    • It is equipped with sophisticated navigation, control, and landing gear systems that allow it to autonomously navigate and land on a predefined runway.

    Key Features

    1. The RLV is a space plane with a low lift-to-drag ratio, requiring an approach at high glide angles that necessitates landing at high velocities of 350 km/h.
    2. This design allows it to transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth for future use.

    Future Prospects

    • Iterative Testing: ISRO conducts a series of experiments, such as the RLV LEX 02 landing experiment, to test and validate the performance of the RLV in various scenarios.
    • Orbital Re-entry Missions: The successful demonstration of the Pushpak RLV’s capabilities paves the way for future orbital re-entry missions, where reusable vehicles can be deployed for various scientific and commercial purposes.

    PYQ:

    2018: With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

    1. PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
    2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
    3. GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch l vehicle with the first and third stages l using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 and 3
    3. 1 and 2
    4. 3 only

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about the ‘Pushpak’ Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV):

    1. It is a winged vehicle.
    2. It can transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth with the help of a parachute.

    Which of the given statements are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • 25th March 2024 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

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