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  • [12th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Perils of decentralization with Chinese characteristics

    [12th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Perils of decentralization with Chinese characteristics

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC IAS/2021)

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

    Q. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC IAS/2018)

    Mentor comment: In the Indian context, there is a need for improved infrastructure to support economic growth and facilitate investment, which requires coordinated efforts at both state and national levels. While prioritizing industrial growth, it is essential to balance this with the provision of public services to ensure comprehensive development. We can learn from the experience of our neighbour – China.

    China’s decentralized policy has become a threat to itself. China’s decentralized policy initially spurred economic growth. Still, it has now become a source of structural inefficiencies, regional disparities, ineffective investments, and governance challenges that threaten the country’s long-term stability and development.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    PM urged the states to compete with each other to attract investors. The difference was highlighted with India’s more centralised system where city-level governments account for less than 3% of total spending.

    • China’s extreme fiscal decentralization (in 1994), with sub-provincial governments accounting for 51% of government spending and having broad qualitative mandates, has turned counter-productive.

    What are the challenges faced by the Chinese local government?

    • Overcapacity as a Structural Issue: Initially, during the Hu Jintao era, the local governments prioritized industrial construction over public services to boost economic growth and political prospects.
      • This model led to competitive sub-national growth, resulting in structural overcapacity and wasteful investments.
    • Tipping Point Under Xi Jinping: As the investments made between 2009 and 2013 were ineffective, Xi Jinping focused on strengthening central control and narrowing directives, focusing on specific product lines like semiconductors, which often ignored market demands.
      • By mid-2024, 30% of industrial firms reported losses, highlighting the negative impact of overcapacity and ineffective local government spending.
    • Geopolitical Ramifications: Other countries view China’s overcapacity as a national security threat, particularly regarding tech-enabled products, exacerbated by China’s international conduct.
      • The geopolitical climate has shifted, affecting China’s ability to export excess capacity and creating challenges for local firms reliant on government funding.

    What were the effects of this on the Asian region?

    1. Positive Impacts:
    • In the Southeast Asian Region: These economies have become highly integrated into China’s supply chains, relying on Chinese intermediate inputs to produce goods for export. This has boosted trade and economic growth in the region.
    • On ASEAN Region: China’s upgraded trade agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), have strengthened economic ties and trade flows between China and its Asian neighbors.
    1. Negative Impacts:
    • Over-dependence on China: Southeast Asian manufacturers heavily rely on Chinese components, making them vulnerable to supply chain disruptions.
    • Increasing Trade Deficits: Growing trade deficits with China concern many Southeast Asian countries as they import more from China than they export.
    • Increasing Sanctions: Countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia impose anti-dumping measures and tariffs on certain Chinese products to protect domestic industries.
    Lessons for Indian States from China’s Experience

    • Decentralization of Authority: Meaningful decentralization of budgets and authority to local governments, particularly cities, can enhance political accountability and improve service delivery, akin to China’s local governance model.
    • Investment in State Capacity: Indian states must invest in building effective governance structures and administrative capacity, ensuring local governments can effectively manage resources and deliver services.
    • Policy Innovation: Encouraging local innovation and flexibility in policy implementation can lead to tailored solutions for regional challenges, mirroring China’s approach during its economic reforms.
    • Balancing Central and Local Authority: Finding the right balance between central oversight and local autonomy can help avoid the pitfalls of over-centralization while ensuring accountability and effective governance.

    Conclusion:

    The overcapacity and export orientation model has now reached its limits due to China’s arrogant approach to international relations and drive towards self-reliance. Though we might see a jump in exports for some sectors, China faces an economic decline if it does not transform its political and economic relations with the world’s major countries.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/perils-of-decentralisation-with-chinese-characteristics/article68631225.ece

  • With an eye on Indo-Pacific, Germany seeks greater defence ties with India

    Why in the News?

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, currently in Germany as part of a three-nation tour, met with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in Berlin. They discussed various defence topics, including Ukraine, Gaza, and the Indo-Pacific region.

    Defence Partnership between India and Germany:

    • Late Engagement: Germany has been late in engaging India’s defence interests compared to France and the U.S., who have stronger partnerships with India.
    • Opportunity Post-Russia-Ukraine War: With Russia’s industrial capacity focused on the war, Germany sees an opportunity to enhance its defence exports to India. 
      • German defence manufacturers like ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems are already involved in projects like submarine construction for the Indian Navy.
    • Technology Transfer: Technology transfer is a key condition for India’s defence partnerships, and Germany’s ability to meet this requirement could shape future cooperation.
    • Complementary Systems: Germany’s Eurofighter and its future replacement by U.S.-made F-35s highlight Germany’s readiness to integrate its defence systems with Western platforms, easing potential interoperability issues for India.

    Exercise Tarang Shakti:

    • Tarang Shakti is one of the most extensive multilateral air exercises hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF), showcasing India’s commitment to international defence cooperation.
    • This exercise marked the first time the German Luftwaffe (Air Force) participated in air sorties over Indian skies, symbolizing Germany’s growing defence ties with India.
    • It would become a biennial exercise, highlighting India’s intent to make such multinational military cooperation a regular feature.
    • Tarang Shakti was seen as a tryout for the larger Pacific Skies 24 air exercise involving France, Germany, and Spain, further emphasizing the Indo-Pacific’s growing military relevance.

    Present Dilemma of China:

    • Germany’s Strategic Interest in the Indo-Pacific: China’s aggressive actions, such as building artificial islands in the South China Sea, pose a significant threat to regional stability, international shipping, and trade routes, which Germany heavily depends on.
    • Germany’s Balancing Act: While Germany has clear political positions against China’s actions in the Indo-Pacific, its economic dependence on China complicates the situation. Germany’s increasing defence presence in the region is partly aimed at ensuring free and secure shipping routes.
    • Europe’s Shift in Focus: Post Russia-Ukraine war, Europe, including Germany, is recalibrating its foreign policy towards the Indo-Pacific, recognizing the region as the future centre of global economic and geopolitical influence, which is driving greater German defence engagement in the region.

    Way Forward: 

    • Enhance Defence Collaboration: India and Germany should focus on deepening defense cooperation, particularly in areas like technology transfer, joint military exercises, and advanced systems integration to build long-term strategic partnerships.
    • Strengthen Indo-Pacific Engagement: Germany and India should align their Indo-Pacific strategies to ensure regional stability, emphasizing free trade routes and countering China’s assertiveness while balancing economic dependencies.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q To what extent can Germany be held responsible for causing the two World Wars? Discuss critically. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • India’s Sickle Cell Challenge  

    Why in the News?

    The Prime Minister has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to addressing sickle cell disease, a genetic blood disorder that alters the shape of red blood cells.

    About the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission:

    • The Union Budget 2023-24 announced a mission to eliminate sickle cell anemia by 2047. The mission focuses on awareness and screening programs for people ages 0 to 40.
    • The mission aims to reduce the burden of sickle cell disease, which primarily affects India’s tribal belt (Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra).
    • These include nationwide screening programs and the inclusion of vital medicines like hydroxyurea in the essential medicines list, improving access to treatment.

    Challenges faced by the Indian Government:

    • High Disease Burden: India has the world’s second-largest burden of sickle cell disease, with over a million affected individuals, primarily in tribal areas.
    • Low Treatment Coverage: Only 18% of those affected receive consistent treatment, with significant drop-offs in screening, diagnosis, and treatment adherence.
    • Stigma and Misinformation: Social stigma around the disease, myths such as “God’s curse” or “black magic,” and mistrust of public health systems, particularly in tribal areas, result in delayed diagnosis and treatment.
    • Treatment Adherence Issues: Challenges include inconsistent availability of medicines like hydroxyurea, long travel distances for treatment, and stock shortages at health centers.
    • Poor Vaccination Coverage: Vaccination, which reduces infection rates and improves quality of life, remains inadequate in many affected regions.
    • Research and Development: The lack of ongoing research into treatments and understanding of the disease in India, and the unaffordability of emerging therapies like gene therapy, hinder long-term progress.
    • Financial and Operational Gaps: Health systems in tribal areas require additional funding and operational strengthening to address region-specific health challenges effectively.

    What are the WHO recommendations?

    • Early Identification: Implement newborn screening programs to identify sickle cell disease at birth.
    • Integration into Health Systems: Sickle cell management should be integrated into national health services. This includes establishing specialized centers for comprehensive care and ensuring that primary healthcare providers are trained in managing sickle cell disease.
    • Public Education and Awareness: Conduct public education campaigns to raise awareness about sickle cell disease, reduce stigma, and inform communities about genetic risks and prevention strategies.
    • Genetic Counseling: Provide genetic counselling to families, especially in communities with high prevalence, to inform them about the risks of having children with sickle cell disease and the importance of carrier screening.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Who was Sakthan Thampuran (1751-1805)?

    On Saturday, September 7, Minister of State for Tourism and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi has pledged to replace the statue of Sakthan Thampuran, which was damaged by a state transport bus in June, with a new bronze statue if the Kerala government fails to do so within 14 days.

    Why in the News?

    Ministry of Tourism has pledged to replace the Sakthan Thampuran statue that was knocked over by a state transport bus in Thrissur.

    Who was Sakthan Thampuran?

    • Sakthan Thampuran, born Raja Rama Varma IX in 1751, was a powerful ruler of the Cochin kingdom from 1790 to 1805.
      • He was raised by an aunt who nicknamed him Sakthan, meaning powerful, reflecting his strong personality and leadership.
    • The title Thampuran is derived from the Sanskrit word samrat, meaning emperor.
    • The Cochin kingdom, a part of the Late Chera Empire, spanned regions from Ponnani (Malappuram) to Thottappally (Alappuzha) in modern-day Kerala.
    • At age 18, in 1769, he became heir apparent, advising the king to maintain friendly relations with both the Dutch and the English, who were competing for control of trade in the region.
    • He orchestrated the Mysore invasion of Travancore, which eventually led to the Powney treaty.
    • This treaty freed the Cochin kingdom from its allegiance to Mysore and formalized its relations with the British East India Company.
    • He ended the institution of the Yogiatirippads, spiritual heads of key temples. He shifted temple management to the government, earning a reputation as a fearsome leader who rid his kingdom of crime.

    Sakthan and the Thrissur Pooram Festival

    • Sakthan relocated the capital of his kingdom from Thrippunithura to Thrissur.
      • He developed Thekkinkadu Maidanam and the surrounding Swaraj Round, which became the foundation for Thrissur’s infrastructure.
    • He invited merchants from all religions and British officials to settle in Thrissur, and personally managed the kingdom’s finances.
    • In 1797, he started the Thrissur Pooram as an alternative to Arattupuzha Pooram, uniting major temples in Thrissur to pay respects to Lord Shiva, the deity at Vadakkumnathan Temple.
      • It is held every year on the Pooram day – the day when the moon rises with the Pooram star in the Malayalam Calendar month of Medam.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to Indian history, which of the following statements is/are correct?​

    1. The Nizamat of Arcot emerged out of Hyderabad State.​

    2. The Mysore Kingdom emerged out of Vijayanangara Empire.​

    3. Rohilkhand Kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani.​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only​

    (b) 2 only​

    (c) 2 and 3 only​

    (d) 3 only ​

  • Cabinet approves ₹5 lakh Health Cover for Senior Citizens

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved health coverage of ₹5 lakh for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of their income, under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).

    About Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)

    • AB PM-JAY is the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, offering ₹5 lakh of coverage per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalizations.
    • It was launched in February 2018.
    • It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme having central sector component under the Ayushman Bharat Mission.
    • It covers surgery, medical and day care treatments, cost of medicines and diagnostics.
      • It covers up to 3 days of pre-hospitalization and 15 days post-hospitalization expenses.
    • It currently covers 55 crore people from 12.34 crore families, providing comprehensive health benefits regardless of the family members’ age.
    • 7.37 crore hospital admissions have been covered under the scheme, with 49% of the beneficiaries being women.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • All senior citizens aged 70 and above are eligible for the scheme, receiving a ₹5 lakh health cover on a family basis.
    • Additional Benefits:
      • Senior citizens belonging to families already under AB PM-JAY will get an extra top-up of ₹5 lakh, exclusively for their personal healthcare.
      • Those with private health insurance can also avail of the scheme.
    • Senior citizens covered under other public health insurance schemes, like CGHS, ECHS, or CAPF, must choose between their current plan and AB PM-JAY.
    • All eligible beneficiaries will be issued a distinct health card for easy access to the scheme’s benefits.

    PYQ:

    [2012] With reference to National Rural Health Mission, which of the following are the jobs of Asha, a trained community health worker?

    1. Accompanying women to the health facility for antenatal care checkups

    2. Using pregnancy test kits for early detection of pregnancy

    3. Providing information on nutrition and immunization

    4. Conducting the delivery of baby

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Launch of PM Gram Sadak Yojana- Phase IV

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved Phase IV of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV) to build 62,500 km of all-weather roads, connecting villages across India.

    About Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

    Details
    Launch 
    • In 2000 by former PM Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
    • To provide connectivity to unconnected habitations.
    Nodal Agency Ministry of Rural Development
    Type Centrally Sponsored Scheme
    Phases
    • Phase I: Focus on connecting unconnected habitations.
    • Phase II: Upgrading roads built in Phase I to enhance rural infrastructure.
    • Phase III: Consolidation of 1.25 lakh km of rural roads connecting habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets, Higher Secondary Schools, and Hospitals. Cost: ₹80,250 crore (2019-2025). Funding: 60:40 (Centre), 90:10 for North-East and Himalayan States.

    Phase IV: Aims at constructing 62,500 km of all-weather roads to provide connectivity to 25,000 unconnected habitations with focus on Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) areas, tribal areas, and remote regions.
    Road Length and Coverage 62,500 km of all-weather roads covering 25,000 unconnected habitations.

    Benefits of PMGSY-IV

    • Road Connectivity for 25,000 Villages: All-weather roads will provide reliable access to previously unconnected rural habitations, improving transportation and accessibility.
    • Socio-Economic Transformation: These roads will act as catalysts for socio-economic development in rural areas, enabling access to government educational institutions, health services, markets, and growth centers.
    • Enhanced Infrastructure: The construction will adopt international benchmarks and best practices, such as using Cold Mix Technology, Waste Plastic, Full Depth Reclamation, and materials like Fly Ash and Steel Slag, contributing to eco-friendly construction.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In rural road construction, the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint?

    1. Copper slag
    2. Cold mix asphalt technology
    3. Geotextiles
    4. Hot mix asphalt technology
    5. Portland cement

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1 and 5 only

  • Union Cabinet approves ‘Mission Mausam’

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved ‘Mission Mausam’ with a budget of ₹2,000 crore over two years.

    About Mission Mausam

    • Mission Mausam focuses on strengthening R&D in weather surveillance, forecasting, and atmospheric sciences.
    • The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) will be the nodal body responsible for implementing the mission.
    • It aims to set a new benchmark for high-precision weather forecasting and management.
    • Three institutes under the MoES will lead the implementation of Mission Mausam:
    1. India Meteorological Department (IMD)
    2. Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)
    3. National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF)

    Critical Components of the Mission: 

    • Next-generation radars and satellite systems equipped with advanced sensors.
    • Deployment of high-performance supercomputers to enhance computational capabilities.
    • Development of improved earth system AI models and a GIS-based automated Decision Support System for real-time data dissemination.

    Benefits and Applications

    • Mission Mausam is expected to benefit key sectors, including:
      • Agriculture, through improved weather prediction for farming activities.
      • Disaster management, with better preparedness for natural calamities.
      • Defence, aviation, and shipping, through enhanced forecasting for operational safety.
      • Energy, water resources, power, and tourism sectors.
    • The mission will also enhance data-driven decision-making for urban planning, transport, offshore operations, and environmental monitoring.

    PYQ:

    [2022] Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department.
  • [11th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A panoramic view of the 2024 China-Africa summit

    [11th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A panoramic view of the 2024 China-Africa summit

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pro and cons. Critically Examine. (UPSC IAS/2015)

    Q “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (UPSC IAS/2021)

    Prelims:
    Consider the following statements:  (UPSC IAS/2016)
    The India-Africa Summit held in 2015:
    1.  was the third such Summit
    2. was actually initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1951
    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

    Mentor comment: Africa is a vital source of raw materials and energy that China needs to sustain its industrial growth. The continent’s potential for economic development aligns with China’s goals for resource acquisition and market expansion. Many African countries are part of China’s BRI, which aims to enhance infrastructure and connectivity, facilitating trade and investment opportunities that benefit both sides.

    During the past 24 years, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has emerged as an all-encompassing and effective platform for dialogue, interaction and planning between the two sides. African countries, despite their reservations and grievances, have found it useful to enhance their proximity to China.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Due to the ongoing regulatory challenges, the Health Ministry has established a National Task Force to address healthcare challenges. 

    • The stagnation in reforms and public policy efforts could hinder the government’s ability to manage current and future public health challenges effectively.

    What are the main outcomes of the 9th Ministerial Conference of FOCAC?

    • Strengthening China-Africa Partnership: Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the China-Africa community with a shared future and elevating their comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership to new heights.
    • Adopted the Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027): The Beijing Declaration on Jointly Building an All-Weather China-Africa Community with a Shared Future for the New Era was adopted, outlining the vision and blueprint for future China-Africa relations.
    • Enhancing Cooperation Mechanisms: It further provided the improving mechanisms like Bi-national Commissions, intergovernmental commissions, strategic dialogues, and foreign ministers’ political consultations to substantiate and institutionalize FOCAC.
    • It was decided to hold the 10th FOCAC Ministerial Conference in the Republic of the Congo in 2027.
    • Expanding Cooperation Areas: Both of them expanded their plans in Africa’s industrialization, agricultural modernization, and talent development for common development and prosperity.

    How will the 9th Ministerial Conference impact China-Africa trade relations?

    • Increased Trade Commitments: China has committed to importing $300 billion worth of goods from Africa, along with financial support to improve the quality of African exports and facilitate small- and medium-sized enterprises’ access to Chinese markets.
    • Focus on Industrialization and Resource Access: The conference will likely lead to better access to Africa’s lithium and cobalt, while providing African nations with investment opportunities and technological support.
    • Strengthening Bilateral Agreements: African nations are expected to negotiate more favorable terms, which could enhance local job creation and economic benefits for African countries.

    What are the key takeaways for India from FOCAC Summit?

    • Consistent Engagement: India must prioritize high-level political engagement with Africa, resuming its conference diplomacy after a nearly decade-long pause since the last India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015.
    • Financial Commitment: Historical ties and rhetoric need to be supported by substantial financial resources to enhance India-Africa cooperation effectively.
    • Reassessing Diplomatic Priorities: Africa’s significance in India’s foreign policy should be elevated, necessitating a proactive approach from Indian policymakers to align with this priority.
    • Need for Political Will: Stronger political will is essential to implement the practical policy choices proposed by Indian Africans for deeper engagement with the continent.

    Conclusion: The Ninth FOCAC Ministerial Conference consolidated China’s strategic partnership with Africa, while highlighting the need for India to reengage the continent with consistent high-level engagement, financial commitment, and stronger political will.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-panoramic-view-of-the-2024-china-africa-summit/article68626792.ece

  • UAE-India ties are rooted in affnity, trust, and respect

    Why in the News?

    During Sheikh Khaled’s recent visit, new cooperation agreements were signed, including those related to civil nuclear technology and renewable energy, showcasing the commitment to collaborative advancements in critical sectors.

    Evolving Bilateral Relations:

    • In 1972:  India and the UAE bilateral relationship has been formalized since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, gaining momentum with high-level visits and agreements over the years.
    • In 2015: The greater push was achieved when the visit of India’s PM to the UAE in August 2015 marked the beginning of a new Strategic partnership.
    • In 2017: The relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2017, during the visit of the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi to India in January 2017 as the chief guest at India’s Republic Day.
      • The UAE is India’s third-largest trading partner and a significant source of investment.
    • Today, the UAE hosts over 3.5 million Indian expatriates, which strengthens cultural ties and economic collaboration.

    Present Scenario of Strategic Development

    • Trade and Investment Growth: Bilateral trade reached approximately USD 85 billion in 2022-23, with goals to increase it to USD 100 billion by 2030.
      • The UAE has become a significant investor in India, with FDI from the UAE surging to USD 3.35 billion in FY23.
    • Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA): India and the UAE signed a CEPA in February 2022, with India being the first country to secure such a deal with the UAE. This agreement led to a 15% rise in bilateral trade within its first year of operation.
    • Regional Ties: India and the UAE are actively engaged in various regional groupings and initiatives such as the I2U2 and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), reflecting shared interests and strategic alignment.
    • Energy Ties: The UAE plays a crucial role in India’s energy security, with strategic oil reserves stored in India.
    • Fintech Ties: Since August 2019, the RuPay card, India’s domestic card payment network, has been accepted at 21 businesses and 5,000 ATMs across the UAE. This makes the UAE the first Gulf nation to adopt the Indian payment system.
    • Cultural Ties: India participated as the Guest of Honour Country in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2019. Indian cinema/TV/radio channels are easily available and have good viewership.
      • The inauguration of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi’s Abu Dhabi campus marks a significant milestone, representing India’s growing educational influence in the UAE.

    Challenges in India-UAE Relations

    • Labor Rights and Kafala System: Concerns regarding the treatment of Indian expatriates under the Kafala labor system necessitate diplomatic engagement to improve labor rights and welfare.
    • Geopolitical Balancing: As India strengthens its ties with the UAE, it must navigate its relationships with other Gulf nations and maintain a balanced approach to regional conflicts, such as the Chinese market dominance and the Israel-Palestine issue.
    • Economic Diversification: While trade is growing, there is a need to diversify economic cooperation beyond traditional sectors like energy and real estate to include technology and innovation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Labor Rights Cooperation: India and the UAE should engage in continuous diplomatic dialogues to reform labor practices, improving the welfare and rights of Indian expatriates under the Kafala system, and ensuring a more humane and fair working environment.
    • Diversify Economic and Strategic Cooperation: Both countries should focus on expanding collaboration into emerging sectors such as technology, innovation, and renewable energy while maintaining geopolitical neutrality and balancing relations with other Gulf nations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics?  (UPSC IAS/2016)

  • The grave threat from AMR

    Why in the News?

    Ahead of the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on antimicrobial resistance, WHO published its first-ever guidance on Antibiotic pollution from manufacturing.

    Common Pathogens Found in India

    The three most common pathogens associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India, as reported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), are:

    • Escherichia coli (E. coli): Known for causing gut infections, E. coli has shown a significant decrease in susceptibility to antibiotics, particularly carbapenems, from 81.4% in 2017 to 62.7% in 2023.
    • Klebsiella pneumoniae: This pathogen can lead to pneumonia and urinary tract infections. Its susceptibility to carbapenem-class antibiotics has also declined, with rates dropping from 58.5% to 35.6% and from 48% to 37.6% between 2017 and 2023.
    • Acinetobacter baumannii: Primarily associated with hospital-acquired infections, this pathogen has a high resistance rate to carbapenems, standing at 88% in 2023.

    What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Why is it a Cause for Concern?

    • Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when pathogens evolve to survive despite the presence of antimicrobial drugs, rendering standard treatments ineffective. This situation arises mainly due to the misuse and overuse of antibiotics, leading to the development of resistant strains or “superbugs.” 
    • According to the WHO, emergence and spread of AMR could significantly undermine the effectiveness of antibiotics globally, impacting healthcare outcomes, especially for patients with multiple diseases.

    Why is AMR Increasing?

    Several factors contribute to the increasing rates of AMR in India:

    • Self-medication: Many individuals self-prescribe antibiotics for conditions like fever without proper medical consultation, often for viral infections where antibiotics are ineffective.
    • Prescribing habits: A significant percentage of antibiotics are prescribed not for treating infections but for prevention. Doctors often resort to broad-spectrum antibiotics without conducting necessary diagnostic tests, leading to inappropriate usage.
    • Lack of regulation: The management of pharmaceutical waste from antibiotic manufacturing is largely unregulated, contributing to environmental pollution and the spread of resistant bacteria.

    What needs to be done?

    • Prevention of Infections: Implementing better hygiene practices, improving sanitation, and promoting vaccinations can help reduce the incidence of infections, thereby decreasing the reliance on antibiotics.
    • Education for Healthcare Providers: Train doctors to prescribe antibiotics judiciously, reserve stronger antibiotics for hospital patients, and emphasise the importance of diagnostic testing, which can help ensure appropriate antibiotic use.
    • Regulatory Improvements: Strengthening regulations around antibiotic manufacturing and waste management is crucial for controlling antibiotic pollution and preventing the emergence of resistant strains.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q 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.  (UPSC IAS/2016)

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