The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that India has successfully eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem.
This makes India the third country in the Southeast Asia Region to achieve this milestone.
WHO has classified Trachoma as a neglected tropical disease (NTD).
WHO estimates that around 150 million people worldwide are affected by Trachoma, and 6 million of them are either blind or at risk of severe visual problems.
Trachoma is commonly found in underprivileged communities living in poor conditions.
What is Trachoma?
Trachoma is a bacterial infection that affects the eyes.
It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia Trachomatis.
It is contagious, spreading through contact with the eyes, eyelids, or secretions from the nose or throat of an infected person.
If untreated, Trachoma can lead to irreversible blindness.
Trachoma in India: A Historical Perspective
In the 1950s and 1960s, Trachoma was one of the leading causes of blindness in India.
To tackle this, India launched the National Trachoma Control Program in 1963.
Later, these efforts were integrated into India’s National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB).
In 1971, the rate of blindness due to trachoma was 5% in the country.
Due to various interventions under the National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment (NPCBVI), the rate has now dropped to less than 1%.
What are the key measures taken to eliminate Trachoma?
India implemented the WHO SAFE strategy across the country. This strategy includes:
Surgery
Antibiotics
Facial hygiene
Environmental cleanliness
Although by 2017, India was declared free from infective Trachoma, it continued surveillance of Trachoma cases from 2019 to 2024.
PYQ:
[2018] Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain.
Rwanda has reported a Marburg virus outbreak with several confirmed cases and deaths, making it a country of concern for public health.
About the Marburg Virus
The Marburg virus is a highly dangerous virus that causes Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), also known as Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever.
It belongs to the same family of viruses as Ebola (the filovirus family).
MVD has a case fatality rate that can range from 24% to 88%, depending on the virus strain and how cases are managed.
The virus was first identified in 1967 during simultaneous outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany.
How does it spread?
The Marburg virus initially spreads from animals to humans, primarily through exposure to Rousettus bats, particularly the Egyptian fruit bat, found in caves or mines.
Once a person is infected, it can spread from human to human through:
Direct contact with the blood, and bodily fluids (urine, saliva, sweat, vomit, feces, breast milk, and semen) of an infected person.
Indirect contact with surfaces or objects like bedding or clothing that have been contaminated with these fluids.
Medical workers are often at risk, especially during outbreaks, due to contact with patients when proper infection control practices are not followed.
The virus does NOT spread through the air like the common cold or flu.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms typically begin between 2 to 21 days after exposure to the virus.
Early symptoms are: High fever, severe headache, Muscle aches, Chills, Severe watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting.
As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may develop, including: Bleeding (both internal and external) ex—blood in vomit and faeces.
Patients often die 8 to 9 days after the onset of symptoms, primarily from severe blood loss and multiple organ failure.
Currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific antiviral treatments for MVD. However, supportive care can improve the chances of survival.
Supportive treatment includes:
Rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
Treatment of specific symptoms like fever, pain, and diarrhoea.
Blood transfusions and oxygen therapy may be required for severe cases.
PYQ:
[2015] Among the following, which were frequently mentioned in the news for the outbreak of Ebola virus recently?
Q). Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC CSE 2021) Q) Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: After the U.K. committed to phasing out coal by 2025, it had already reduced coal usage to just 20% of its energy needs. The country focused on a comprehensive transition that supported the workforce and the communities reliant on coal.
In contrast, India has set a longer timeline of 45 years (until 2070) to reach net zero emissions and has made significant strides in increasing renewable energy capacity. However, coal usage has also risen, necessitating the establishment of clear timelines for shutting down coal plants and implementing regional redevelopment programs.
This is crucial as many coal-dependent areas in India are among the poorest. In today’s editorial, we need to ensure an inclusive and fair transition. India needs a well-planned, transparent approach that addresses the unique challenges faced by these communities.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The closure of the UK’s last coal-fired power plant marks a significant milestone in the global transition to clean energy, reflecting a broader paradigm shift away from coal reliance.
However, this transition has faced challenges and requires tailored strategies for developing nations, as the UK’s experience illustrates a complex history influenced by environmental legislation and geopolitical factors over several decades.
Key Highlights of India’s Performance at Glasgow COP26 Summit:
•Net Zero Commitment: India announced its first-ever net zero emissions target for 2070, which was seen as a significant but late commitment compared to other countries aiming for 205013. •Five Key Targets: Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined five commitments (Panchamrit) for India, including: 1. Achieving 500 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity by 2030. 2. Meeting 50% of energy needs from renewable sources by 2030. 3. Reducing total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes by 2030. 4. Reducing emissions intensity of GDP by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030. •Focus on Developed Nations: India’s stance emphasized the responsibility of developed countries to provide climate finance and technology transfer, reflecting a call for equity and climate justice in global efforts45. •Criticism: While some activists criticized the 2070 target as insufficiently ambitious, it was viewed positively within India, highlighting the country’s recognition of its role in global climate action amidst its developmental needs13.
Present Dilemma: India and the U.K. are on different paths toward achieving net zero emissions, with India advocating for “phasing down” coal rather than an outright phase-out, as seen at the 2021 Glasgow COP where it pledged to reach net zero by 2070 and meet half its energy needs from renewables by 2050.
Present Status of Cumulative Emissions:
An analysis by Carbon Brief indicated that the U.K. has emitted 10.4 billion tonnes historically, ranking it fourth globally due to its colonial carbon footprint.
India’s per capita emissions were 2 tonnes in 2023, which is less than half the global average (4.6 tonnes) and about a third of the U.K.’s per capita emissions (5.5 tonnes) despite having a population over 20 times larger.
India relies heavily on coal for energy, with about 70% of its energy output coming from coal-fired plants, and it has more than 350 operational mines.
The coal sector employs around 340,000 miners directly, with additional jobs in thermal power plants, highlighting the economic implications of transitioning away from coal.
India’s coal production and consumption are expected to peak between 2030 and 2035, while the country aims to increase its renewable energy capacity significantly.
Despite rising coal use, India is also rapidly expanding its renewable energy capacity, aiming for a balanced approach to meet growing energy demands while addressing climate goals.
India’s Coal Story:
In 1774: India’s first coal mine, the Raniganj coalfield was by the British East India Company, leading to extensive coal extraction across eastern and central states.
In 1920: The Hussain Sagar Thermal Power Station, India’s first coal-fired power plant (1920), began operations, followed by the Trombay power station in 1956, which solidified thermal power as a primary energy source.
In 2022: Britain’s per capita energy consumption was nearly three times that of India, highlighting disparities in energy usage.
At Present, approximately 70% of India’s energy output comes from coal, with around 218 GW of installed capacity and over 350 operational mines, alongside plans for 120 new mines.
What lessons can India learn from the UK’s coal phase-out?
Just Transition Planning: The U.K.’s transition involved comprehensive plans to support displaced workers, highlighting the need for India to develop similar strategies to mitigate socio-economic impacts, especially for informal workers who make up a significant portion of the coal workforce.
Regional Economic Diversification: The U.K. implemented regional redevelopment plans to support areas reliant on coal.
India must also create economic diversification strategies for coal-dependent regions, ensuring new industries can thrive in these communities.
India can leverage existing welfare programs to provide targeted support for communities affected by coal phase-out, ensuring a safety net during the transition period.
Clear Transition Timelines: The U.K. set clear timelines for phasing out coal, which facilitated planning and adaptation in the power sector. India should establish transparent timelines for decommissioning coal plants and transitioning to renewables.
Investment in Renewable Energy: The U.K. successfully increased its renewable energy capacity during its coal phase-out.
India must continue to invest in and expand its renewable energy infrastructure to reduce dependence on coal while meeting energy demands.
India should focus on tailored training programs that align with local job market needs and community involvement.
Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in planning and decision-making processes is crucial. This ensures that the transition addresses specific local needs and concerns, fostering broader support for change.
Way Forward:
Sectoral Diversification: Identify and promote alternative sectors such as agriculture, tourism, pisciculture, food processing, and non-timber forest products to reduce reliance on coal. For example, repurposing abandoned mines for fish farming has shown potential in regions like Jharkhand.
Infrastructure Development: Invest in infrastructure improvements, including transportation and healthcare, to support new economic activities and enhance overall community resilience.
Attract Investment: Create a business case for post-coal economic activities that can attract private investment. This includes developing a clear plan for transitioning to alternative industries that can generate revenue and employment.
Decentralized Planning: Establish district-level transition committees to create tailored short-, medium–, and long-term plans for economic diversification, ensuring that local contexts are considered.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO)‘s October 2024 report revealed that 2023 was the driest year for global rivers in 33 years, intensifying stress on water supplies globally.
What factors contributed to 2023 being the driest year for global rivers?
Record High Temperatures: 2023 was marked as the hottest year on record, which significantly contributed to prolonged drought conditions and reduced river flows across many regions globally.
Climate Change Impact: Rising temperatures have led to a more erratic hydrological cycle, resulting in both extreme droughts and flooding. This unpredictability has exacerbated water shortages in many areas.
Transition from La Niña to El Niño: The climatic shift from La Niña to El Niño conditions in mid-2023 played a crucial role in altering weather patterns, leading to widespread dry conditions in many regions while simultaneously causing flooding in others.
Glacier Melting: The report indicated that glaciers experienced their largest mass loss in 50 years, which threatens long-term water security for millions who rely on glacial meltwater for their water supply.
How has climate change impacted global water resources and glacier conditions?
Increased Water Scarcity: The report highlighted that approximately 3.6 billion people currently lack reliable access to water for at least one month each year, a number expected to rise to over 5 billion by 2050 due to worsening water scarcity.
Glacier Dependency: Many regions depend on glacial meltwater for their river systems. As glaciers continue to shrink, future water availability is jeopardized, particularly in areas like Europe and North America.
Erratic Water Supply: The hydrological cycle’s acceleration leads to unpredictable rainfall patterns, causing both droughts and floods that disrupt agricultural and industrial water supplies.
What are the implications for global water access and management?
Increased Demand vs. Supply Shortages: With growing populations and rising demand for water resources, the current trends indicate a critical imbalance between supply and demand, leading to heightened competition for available water resources.
Need for Improved Monitoring: The WMO emphasizes the necessity for better data collection and sharing regarding water resources. This is crucial for effective management strategies that can adapt to changing conditions.
Urgent Action Required: There is an urgent need for global cooperation and action to address these challenges. Enhanced monitoring systems and international collaboration are essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change on water resources.
Way forward:
Strengthen Water Resource Management and Adaptation Strategies: Governments should implement integrated water resource management (IWRM) plans to address both water scarcity and flooding risks.
Enhance Global Cooperation and Data-Driven Decision Making: Countries must prioritize data-sharing, improve monitoring of water resources, and foster cross-border collaborations to manage shared water systems effectively.
On October 2, the Washington DC-based United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released a country update on India, highlighting what it described as “collapsing conditions for religious freedom.”
Mandate of the USCIRF
Monitoring Religious Freedom: The USCIRF is tasked with monitoring the universal right to freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) in countries outside the U.S. This includes assessing violations based on international human rights standards, particularly Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Annual Reports: The commission produces annual reports that evaluate religious freedom conditions and recommend countries for designation as “Countries of Particular Concern” (CPC) or for inclusion on the “Special Watch List” (SWL).
Policy Recommendations: USCIRF provides policy recommendations to the President, Secretary of State, and Congress regarding actions to address violations of religious freedom.
How does the UNSCIRF designate a country as a ‘Country of Particular concern’?
Criteria for CPC Designation: A country is designated as a CPC if it engages in or tolerates “systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations” of religious freedom. This includes severe actions such as torture, prolonged detention without charges, and other flagrant denials of basic rights.
Recommendation Process: The USCIRF assesses countries based on its findings and recommends those that meet the CPC criteria. The U.S. Secretary of State ultimately decides whether to accept these recommendations and designate countries accordingly.
How has the Indian government reacted to the report?
Rejection of Findings: The Indian government has strongly rejected the USCIRF’s report, labeling it as biased and politically motivated. Officials argue that the commission misrepresents facts regarding religious freedom in India.
Defense of Policies: The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India is committed to protecting the rights and freedoms of all its citizens, regardless of their faith, and urged USCIRF to refrain from agenda-driven narratives.
Way forward:
Engage in Diplomatic Dialogue: India should proactively engage with international bodies like USCIRF to address concerns, clarify its stance, and present factual data on religious freedom, fostering mutual understanding.
Strengthen Domestic Protections: India should reinforce legal and institutional frameworks to safeguard minority rights and religious freedoms, ensuring transparent mechanisms to address grievances and counter negative perceptions globally.
Union Minister announced the Indian textile sector’s $350 billion business target by 2030, aiming to generate 3.5 crore jobs, despite recent challenges affecting the projected 10% CAGR.
Present Status:
The Indian textile and apparel industry is currently valued at $153 billion (2021), contributing significantly to India’s GDP (2.3%) and manufacturing GVA (10.6%).
The industry employs around 105 million people and is highly dependent on global markets, with 80% of its capacity in MSMEs.
India was the third largest textile exporter in FY22, but faced a slowdown in FY23 and FY24, with significant drops in exports and domestic demand.
What caused the slump in the Indian textile sector in the last two financial years?
Geopolitical Tensions: Global geopolitical issues reduced demand in key export markets.
High Raw Material Prices: Cotton and Man-Made Fibre (MMF) prices surged, hurting competitiveness.
Import Duties: A 10% import duty on cotton made Indian cotton more expensive than global prices.
Supply Chain Disruptions: Quality control measures affected the availability and price stability of MMF, further straining production.
What are the other challenges?
Evolving Business Models: The rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer retailing is reshaping traditional business systems in the textile industry.
Sustainability Standards: Global brands are increasingly focusing on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, forcing Indian manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices.
Changing Consumer Preferences: Growing demand for comfort wear, athleisure, and multi-brand outlets is shifting consumer behavior, impacting smaller or less-known brands.
Labour Costs and Productivity: Labour constitutes 10% of production costs, and the industry faces pressure to improve productivity through technology adoption and workforce skilling.
Way forward:
Enhance Global Competitiveness: The government should consider reducing import duties on key raw materials like cotton and stabilize supply chains by aligning domestic prices with international markets, ensuring competitiveness in global exports.
Invest in Technology and Sustainability: The industry should focus on adopting advanced technologies to improve productivity and meet global ESG sustainability standards, while simultaneously upskilling the workforce to handle these technological advancements effectively.
John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, 2024 for their pioneering work that laid the foundation for machine learning and artificial neural network.
What is Artificial Neural Network?
Artificial neural networks are systems inspired by the structure of the brain.
In these networks, nodes represent the brain’s neurons, and they influence each other through connections, similar to synapses in the brain.
These connections can be made stronger or weaker through training.
For instance, connections between nodes with high values can become stronger as the network learns.
Since the 1980s, Hopfield and Hinton have been conducting important research on artificial neural networks.
Significance of their contribution
Hinton’s work on the Boltzmann machine and other neural networks helped drive the explosive growth of machine learning.
His methods continue to play a significant role in modern AI, enabling technologies like image classification and pattern recognition.
PYQ:
[2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?
1 Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units
2. Create meaningful short stories and songs
3. Disease diagnosis
4. Text-to-Speech Conversion
5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, in collaboration with other researchers have developed the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant.
What is the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant?
It is a hybrid implant made of metal-based nano-medicine combined with patient-derived blood clotting components.
It is designed to reduce localized tumor recurrence after surgery.
It uses nanotechnology and autologous fibrin (derived from the patient’s own blood) to enhance post-surgical cancer treatment by providing localized therapy and promoting healing in the tumor bed.
How does It Work?
The implant is created using Nano-Micro-Sera (NMS), which consists of drug and metal-based nanomedicine stabilized by the patient’s own serum protein corona.
The hybrid implant is reinforced into autologous fibrin, which quickly bonds with damaged tissue in the tumor bed after surgery.
Once the surgical site is closed, the implant delivers localized chemo-phototherapy, triggering immunogenic cell death (ICD).
This process activates dendritic cells and T-cells, which boosts the body’s immune response and prevents the recurrence of tumors.
Significance of the Implant
The implant offers an affordable and effective solution for localized post-surgical cancer management, especially for marginalized patients.
By using the patient’s own serum proteins and fibrin, the implant ensures personalized treatment, reducing the risk of systemic toxicity.
The implant’s design is resource-efficient, making it accessible for bedside fabrication with simple equipment, ensuring wider availability.
It has demonstrated superior outcomes in suppressing recurrent breast tumors, and its use could prevent tumor recurrence and reducing the chances of metastasis.
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to the use of nanotechnology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology.
2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
