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  • Naegleria fowleri: the Brain-eating Amoeba

    Why in the news?

    • A five-year-old girl in Kozhikode, Kerala has succumbed to primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), caused by Naegleria fowleri.
      • India has recorded 20 reported cases of PAM, with the recent case marking the seventh infection in Kerala.

    What is Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)?

    • PAM is a rare brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, a free-living amoeba found in warm freshwater and soil worldwide.
      • An amoeba is a type of cell or unicellular organism with the ability to alter its shape, primarily by extending and retracting pseudopods.
      • Higher temperatures of up to 115°F (46°C) are conducive to its growth and it can survive for short periods in warm environments.
    • The amoeba enters the body through the nose, typically during activities like swimming, and travels to the brain, causing severe damage.
    • PAM is also non-communicable.
    • Symptoms: Headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, and coma.
      • According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people with PAM die within 1 to 18 days after symptoms begin. It usually leads to coma and death after 5 days.

    Treatment Challenges

    • Currently, there are no established effective treatments for PAM.
    • Medical interventions typically involve a combination of drugs, including amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone.

  • Antarctic Parliament meets in Kochi: What’s on the table?

    Why in the News?

    • India is hosting the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM 46), also known as the Antarctic Parliament, from May 20-30 in Kochi.
      • The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Goa, through the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), has organised the meeting, which will be attended by the 56 member countries of the Antarctic Treaty.

    What is the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM)?

    • ATCM is the primary forum for discussing and coordinating activities related to the Antarctic Treaty System.
    • It was established under the Antarctic Treaty, which was signed in 1959 and entered into force in 1961.
      • It serves as the annual meeting of the parties to the Antarctic Treaty, known as Consultative Parties.
      • The ATCM adopts legally binding agreements, known as Antarctic Treaty Measures (ATMs), as well as non-binding recommendations on various matters.
      • Decisions within the ATCM are made by consensus among the Consultative Parties.
    • The ATCM established the Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP) as a subsidiary body to provide advice and recommendations on environmental matters.
    • India had last hosted the ATCM in New Delhi in 2007.

    India’s Agenda at ATCM 46

    • During the Kochi meet, India will table its plan to construct Maitri II before the members.
    • Any new construction or initiative in Antarctica requires the ATCM’s approval.

    About Antarctic Treaty

    Details
    Signing and Entry into Force
    • Signed on December 1, 1959 at Washington DC.
    • Entered into force on June 23, 1961.
    • 12 Initial Countries: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the USSR, the UK, and the US.
    Objective Ensure Antarctica remains exclusively for peaceful purposes, free from international discord.
    Key Provisions
    • Art. I: Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only
    • Art. II: Freedom of scientific investigation in Antarctica and cooperation
    • Art. III:  Scientific observations and results from Antarctica shall be exchanged and made freely available
    Territorial Claims
    • Prohibits new territorial claims.
    • Preserves existing territorial sovereignty claims.
    Disarmament
    • Prohibits testing of nuclear weapons.
    • Prohibits disposal of radioactive waste
    Consultative Meetings
    • Antarctic Treaty Secretariat (ATS), established in 2004, serves as the administrative hub for the Antarctic Treaty System.
    • Annual Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings (ATCM) where member states discuss treaty implementation and cooperation.
    Environmental Protection
    • Promotes protection of the Antarctic environment.
    • Prohibits activities causing pollution or environmental damage
    Mineral Resource Exploitation
    • Bans mining activities until at least 2048.
    • Requires consensus for any review or modification
    Membership
    • 54 parties as of 2024.
    • 29 Consultative Parties actively participate in decision-making.
    • 25 Non-Consultative Parties.
    • India ratified the treaty in 1983.
    Madrid Protocol
    • Adopted in 1991.
    • Entered into force in 1998.
    • Strengthens environmental protection measures in Antarctic.

    India in Antarctica

    1. Governance:

    • Since 1983, India has been a consultative party to the Antarctic Treaty.
    • Of the 56 nations that are part of the Antarctic Treaty, 29 have consultative party status.
    • In this capacity, India votes and participates in all key decision-making processes regarding Antarctica.
    • India has undertaken scientific research in Antarctica since 1981.

    2. Scientific Expeditions:

    • The first Indian Antarctica research station, Dakshin Gangotri, was set up in 1983, some 2,500 km from the South Pole in Queen Maud Land. The station operated till 1990.
    • In 1989, India set up its second Antarctica research station, Maitri, in the Schirmacher Oasis, a 3-km wide ice-free plateau with over 100 freshwater lakes.
    • It is still operational and located about 5 km from Russia’s Novolazarevskaya Station, and 90 km from Dakshin Gangotri.
    • In 2012, India inaugurated Bharati, its third Antarctica research station, located around 3,000 km east of Maitri, on the Prydz Bay coast.
    • Although the station focuses on oceanographic and geologic study, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) utilises it for receiving Indian Remote sensing Satellite (IRS) data.
    • India plans to open a new station, Maitri II, a few kilometres from the ageing Maitri station. Operations are set to begin by 2029.
    • In 2022, India enacted the Antarctic Act, reaffirming its commitment to the Antarctic Treaty.

    About the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR)

    • NCPOR is an Indian research and development institution, situated in Vasco da Gama, Goa.
    • It is an autonomous institution of the Department of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, established in 1998.
    • It is responsible for scientific and strategic endeavors in the Polar Regions (Arctic and Antarctic), the Himalayas, and the Southern Ocean.

    PYQ:

    [2015] The term ‘IndARC’ sometimes seen in the news is the name of

    (a) An indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence.

    (b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean Rim.

    (c) A scientific establishment set up by India in Antarctic region.

    (d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region.

  • X chromosome revival in older Women increases Autoimmune Disease risk

    Why in the News?

    The X chromosome influences biological functions and disease susceptibilities, affecting genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and Alzheimer’s, with research offering potential new treatments and therapies.

    Back2Basics: Chromosomes

    • Chromosomes are fundamental components of cells that play a vital role in storing and transmitting genetic information.
    • These structures contain genes, which carry instructions for the development, functioning, and inheritance of traits.
    • Chromosomes consist of tightly coiled DNA molecules wrapped around proteins called histones, forming chromatin.
    • Before cell division, chromosomes replicate into identical sister chromatids held together at the centromere.

    Types of Chromosomes:

    1. Autosomes: Non-sex chromosomes (22 pairs in humans) determine most traits.
    2. Sex Chromosomes: Determine biological sex (XX for females, XY for males).

    Functions of Chromosomes

    • Genetic Information Storage: Genes on chromosomes encode instructions for protein production and cellular processes.
    • Inheritance: Chromosomes transmit genetic information during sexual reproduction through meiosis, ensuring genetic diversity in offspring.
    • Gene Expression Regulation: Chromosomes control gene activation or silencing, crucial for development and cell functioning.

    Genetic Landscape of the X chromosome:

    • The human X chromosome encodes around 800 genes, producing proteins.
    • Loss of function in these genes can lead to various genetic diseases.
    • Diseases influenced by the X chromosome fall into three categories:
    1. X-linked genetic diseases
    2. Diseases influenced by XCI (X chromosome inactivation) escape
    3. Diseases linked to X-chromosome aneuploidy

    What is the X chromosome?

    • It is one of the two sex chromosomes in humans, the other being the Y chromosome.
    • Females have two X chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY).
    • Significance:
      • Encodes around 800 genes that are crucial for various biological processes.
      • Plays a significant role in determining sex and influencing many physiological functions.
      • Loss of function or mutations in X chromosome genes can lead to several genetic disorders.

    What are Autoimmune Diseases?

    • Diseases where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells and tissues.
    • Normally, the immune system defends against infections by targeting harmful pathogens.
    • Common Autoimmune Diseases:
      • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Chronic inflammation affecting various body parts.
      • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Inflammation of joints and surrounding tissues.
      • Sjogren’s Syndrome: Affects glands that produce moisture, leading to dry mouth and eyes.

    How does the X chromosome cause Autoimmune Diseases?

    • X Chromosome Inactivation (XCI):
      • In females, one of the two X chromosomes is randomly inactivated during early embryonic development to balance gene expression between males and females.
      • This process is crucial to prevent overexpression of X-linked genes.
    • XCI Escape:
      • Not all genes on the inactive X chromosome are completely silenced.
      • Up to a fourth of these genes may escape inactivation and continue to be expressed.
    • Link to Autoimmune Diseases:
      • Skewed XCI: Uneven inactivation of X chromosomes may lead to an imbalance in gene expression, contributing to autoimmune disorders.
      • Incomplete XCI: Reactivation of genes that should be silenced can result in abnormal immune responses.

    Studies, such as one published in Science Advances (May 3, 2023), have shown that reactivation of X-linked genes in immune cells can lead to lupus-like symptoms in mice.

    Linkage between X chromosome and Alzheimer’s disease

    • Sex Bias in Alzheimer’s:
      • Women are almost twice as likely as men to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
    • Role of X-Linked Genes:
      • Researchers have identified a gene called ubiquitin-specific peptidase 11 (USP11) on the X chromosome.
      • USP11 Gene: Involved in protein modification processes and thought to influence the accumulation of tau proteins in the brain.
      • XCI Escape: USP11 may escape XCI in females, leading to higher expression levels and contributing to Alzheimer’s pathology.
      • A study from Case Western Reserve University (Cell, October 2022) highlighted this mechanism, suggesting it as a target for new treatments.

    PYQ:

    [2011] At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?

    1. It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.
    2. It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.
    3. It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [21 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Critical times call for strong judicial adjudication

    PYQ Relevance:Mains: 

    Mains: 
    Q) What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution? (UPSC CSE 2016)

    Q) The Supreme Court of India keeps a check on arbitrary power of the Parliament in amending the Constitution. Discuss critically. (UPSC CSE 2013)

    Prelims:

    In India, Judicial Review implies (UPSC IAS/2017):
    (a) the power of the Judiciary to pronounce upon the constitutionality of laws and executive orders.
    (b) the power of the Judiciary to question the wisdom of the laws enacted by the Legislatures.
    (c) the power of the Judiciary to review all the legislative enactments before they are assented to by the President.
    (d) the power of the Judiciary to review its own judgements given earlier in similar or different cases.

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims:  Judicial Review;

    Mains: Judicial Review and Judicial Activism;

    Mentor comment: The Indian constituent assembly adopted judicial review to ensure the effective functioning of the constitutional democracy in India. Judicial review allows the judiciary to protect the fundamental rights of citizens enshrined in the Constitution. It serves as a mechanism to ensure that laws and actions of the government do not violate these rights. It also ensures the successful operation of constitutional democracy in India. It allows for the protection of democratic principles, the separation of powers, and the independence of the judiciary.

    Let’s learn.

    –

    Why in the News?

    Concerns have arisen due to the ambiguity in the CAA Rules regarding the status of applicants denied citizenship, raising fears of detention center placements.

    • Petitioners have expressed worries about dual citizenship for foreign applicants, potentially leading to citizenship uncertainty and conflicting with the Parent Act.
    Background:
    The Supreme Court of India will assess the constitutionality of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and its associated rules shortly.
    Constitutional courts rarely intervene to invalidate legislation, presuming laws passed by Parliament are valid unless proven to violate constitutional provisions.

    The lack of interdiction in the Judiciary:

    • Manish Kumar vs Union Of India, 2021: The Legislation is generally assumed to be free of malice. The Supreme Court said that there can be no estoppel against the Legislature, and the concept of transferred malice is alien in the field of legislation
    • Gurudevdatta Maryadit and Ors. vs State Of Maharashtra and Ors (2001): The Supreme Court, in this case, has stated that legislative malice falls outside the jurisdiction of law courts. It also held that it is not appropriate to attribute malice to the legislative process.
    • Case of Anoop Baranwal vs Union of India (2023): This case called for an independent body to select the Election Commission of India (ECI) to avoid executive dominance.
      • The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners Act, 2023 reinstated the Prime Minister’s Committee’s role in ECI appointments.
    • Jaya Thakur vs Union of India (2024) challenged the Act, highlighting its unconstitutional nature threatening democratic foundations.
      • The Court’s refusal to prevent the Act’s implementation based on presumed validity raises concerns about safeguarding democracy and free elections.

    Impacts of Lack of Interdiction in Critical Times:

    • Conventional wisdom falls short in addressing challenges posed by populist regimes using motivated legislation.
    • Obsolete presumptions of law validity hinder constitutional courts from playing a counter-majoritarian role effectively.
    • Impact of Political Statements: Legislation reflects political ideologies, especially in regimes undermining constitutional democracy. Judicial reluctance to interdict laws based on presumed validity can lead to irreversible consequences, as seen in cases like demonetization and the dilution of Kashmir’s special status.

    Way Forward:

    • Strengthen Judicial Review: Judicial review should be strengthened to effectively check legislative actions that manipulate Electoral processes or undermine Constitutional Democracy.
      • Courts need to adopt a more assertive approach in critical times to fulfill their counter-majoritarian role.
    • Prioritize Urgent Cases: Urgent cases challenging unconstitutional laws should be prioritized to prevent irreversible consequences. Delays in deciding such cases can make the litigation almost a fait accompli, as seen in the dilution of Kashmir’s special status.
    • Ensure Effective Implementation of Judgments: Courts should ensure the effective implementation of their judgments by preventing the legislature from overriding them through motivated legislation. 
    • Enhance Judicial Infrastructure: Improving judicial infrastructure, such as increasing the number of judges and courts, can help expedite the hearing of urgent cases. Adequate resources and efficient case management systems are crucial for the timely delivery of justice.
    BACK2BASICS:

    What is Judicial Review?

    The term “judicial review” refers to the power of the courts to examine the actions of the legislative, executive, and administrative branches of government to determine if they are consistent with the Constitution.

    Article 372 (1) establishes the judicial review of the pre-constitution legislation. 

    Article 13 declares that any law which contravenes any of the provisions of the part of Fundamental Rights shall be void.
    The primary purpose is to uphold the rule of law and protect the Constitution by striking down unconstitutional laws or actions. It is based on the Constitution and existing legal precedents.

    What is Judicial Activism?

    Judicial activism occurs when judges take an active role in shaping policies by broadly interpreting the Constitution and laws to achieve what they consider just outcomes.
    According to Articles 32 and 226 of the Indian Constitution, the higher judiciary has the power to consider any legislative, executive, or administrative action as unconstitutional and void if it does so.
    Judicial activism often involves mechanisms like suo-moto cases and public interest litigation that have no explicit constitutional backing.

  • India-China consumption comparison

    Why in the news?

    In 2023, India became the world’s most populous country, contrasting China’s declining birth rate. This prompts a comparison of their consumption patterns and geopolitical implications.

    Consumer size of India and China 

    Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE):

    • India’s PFCE as a percentage of GDP is significantly higher than China’s, with India spending over 58% of its GDP on consumption compared to China’s 38%.
    • Final consumption, including government expenditure, constitutes 68% of India’s GDP and 53% of China’s GDP.
    • Despite China’s larger economy, its PFCE is only about 3.5 times that of India’s, indicating a higher contribution of consumption to India’s GDP.

    Expenditure by Categories:

    • India’s consumption expenditure is characterized by higher spending on food, clothing, footwear, and transport, typical of a developing market.
    • In contrast, China’s consumption basket represents a relatively developed market, with higher spending on housing, white goods, recreation, education, and healthcare.
    • India spends approximately half of what China spends on food, transport, and clothing and footwear, despite being a fifth of China’s economy.
    • Real growth rates of individual consumption categories in India often outperform nominal growth rates observed in China.

    Conclusion: India’s higher PFCE as a percentage of GDP reflects a greater reliance on consumption-driven growth compared to China.The composition of consumption expenditure in India and China highlights differences in market maturity and consumer behavior.Despite China’s larger economy, India’s consumption expenditure is relatively significant, indicating the potential for continued growth and economic development.

    Mains PYQ

    Q The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary relationship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have a great significance for Asia and the world as a whole. Comment. (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • Radical Democracy: why is it still relevant today?

    Why in the News?

    The ongoing socio-political and economic crises highlight the need for societal reorganization.

    • Manabendra Nath Roy and colleagues proposed a theory reconciling Freedom with justice, countering the failures of Liberal democracy and modern dictatorship.
    • They highlighted crises on the following grounds:
      • 19th Century Liberal Democracy and Capitalist Exploitation.
      • Degeneration of Communism and Rise of Fascism.
      • World Wars and Global Conflict.

    What is Radical Democracy?

    • Radical democracy is a form of democracy that advocates for an extensive expansion of equality and liberty. It views democracy as an ongoing, inclusive, and reflexive process.
    • Radical democracy differs from traditional democracy’s approach to equality, liberty, and the democratic process.
    • Traditional democracy typically focuses on established structures and procedures, aiming for consensus and stability.

    The key principles of radical democracy in India (by M. N. Roy):

    • Decentralized Democracy: Radical democracy advocates for a highly decentralized democracy based on a network of people’s committees, enabling citizens to exercise democratic control over the state.
    • Economic Reorganization: It emphasizes the progressive satisfaction of material needs as a prerequisite for individuals to unfold their intellectual potential, with economic liberation being essential for advancing toward freedom.
    • Collective Efforts for Freedom: It envisions a world of freedom achieved through the collective efforts of intellectually free individuals who act as guides and friends of the people, promoting rational and ethical political practices.
    • Social Renaissance: Radical democracies stressed the importance of educating people on freedom and rational cooperative living to achieve social revolution, requiring an increasing number of individuals committed to freedom, reason, and social harmony.
    • Party-less Democracy Critique: Roy’s advocacy for party-less democracy is critiqued for potentially contradicting the fundamental democratic freedom of association, as political parties play a crucial role in democratic processes.

    Significance of Radical Approach towards Elections:

    • Empowerment of Citizens: Radical democracy emphasizes empowering citizens beyond mere voting, focusing on raising individuals’ dignity and enabling active participation in decision-making processes.
    • Critique of Traditional Democracy: Challenges the limitations of traditional liberal democracy, highlighting how parliamentary systems can lead to demagoguery and a loss of civil liberties, especially for economically disadvantaged individuals.
    • Decentralization and Local Participation: Advocates for decentralization of legislative power to local councils, promoting direct participation and accountability at the grassroots level, ensuring a more inclusive and responsive democratic process.
    • Protection Against Authoritarianism: Seeks to safeguard against authoritarianism and dictatorship by dispersing power and preventing monopolization by political parties or their leaders, fostering a more pluralistic and accountable political landscape.
    • Enhanced Democratic Culture: Promotes a vibrant democratic culture that goes beyond institutional arrangements, emphasizing citizen empowerment through critical thinking, and participatory politics, and cultivating a public ethos that values democratic principles and practices.

    How does a Radical Democracy provide a Humanist Economy?

    • Roy criticizes Capitalist and Nationalized economies for their centralization and failure to prioritize human needs.
      • He advocates for the modernization of agriculture through better irrigation, fertility improvement, and infrastructure development, emphasizing the cooperative organization of rural economies.
      • Economic policies should focus on social security, unemployment insurance, old age pensions, and improving health, housing, and education.
    • Roy argues for a balanced approach to industrialization that addresses immediate needs and promotes social and economic justice, warning against rapid industrialization that benefits only a small fraction of the population.

    Significance of Radical Democracy:

    • Achieve true freedom and social justice: Radical democracy, according to Roy, is essential for achieving true freedom and social justice. Democracy should be viewed as a product of civilization, possible only in advanced societies where individual freedom is recognized as interconnected with the freedom of others.
    • Prevent totalitarianism:  Roy emphasizes that economic deprivation and social oppression pave the way for totalitarianism. To prevent this, democracy must be grounded in individual creativity, rationality, and collective efforts to transform society.
    • Humanism and moral radicalism: He advocates for a philosophy rooted in humanism and moral radicalism, asserting that humans are the creators of their world and emphasizing the need for a rational and scientific approach to societal development.

    Conclusion: Radical democracy, rooted in humanism and moral radicalism, is crucial for true freedom and social justice, requiring a rational, creative, and collective effort to transform society and prevent totalitarianism.

    Manabendra Nath Roy, better known as M. N. Roy, was a prominent 20th-century Indian revolutionary, philosopher, radical activist, and political theorist. He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and was the founder of the Mexican Communist Party and the Communist Party of India. Roy’s political career was marked by his involvement in various revolutionary activities, his advocacy for radical humanism, and his contributions to Marxist philosophy.

     

     

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy. (UPSC IAS/2014)

    Prelims PYQs

    Who among the following were the founders of the “Hind Mazdoor Sabha” established in 1948?

    a)     Krishna Pillai, E.M.S. Namboodiripad and K.C . George

    b)     Jayaprakash Narayan, Deen Day al Upadhyay and M.N. Roy

    c)       C .P. Ramaswamy Iyer, K. Kamaraj and Veeresalingam Pantulu

    d)     Ashok Mehta, T.S. Ramanujam and G.G. Mehta

     

  • MSMEs have not been defined well — and micro enterprises pay the price for this

    Why in the News?

    A parliamentary panel suggested separating micro-enterprises from the broader MSME category and recommended revising definitions every five years.

    • A government order for timely MSME payments has exposed knowledge gaps and unintentionally marginalized smaller enterprises, highlighting issues in understanding their structure and operations.

    Present Status:

    • According to the National Sample Survey Organisations (NSSO) Unorganised Enterprise Survey 2016, 95% of the enterprises surveyed reported revenues under Rs 50 lakh per annum. Of them, 89% reported an annual revenue of under Rs 12 lakh.
    • In the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), more than 66% of the enterprises reported an annual revenue of less than Rs 50 lakh, and of them, 45% reported annual revenues of Rs 12 lakh.

    What are the Categories of Micro-Enterprises?

    • Category 1 – Micro: More than 98% of the MSMEs are within this category, with reporting annual revenue of Rs 50 lakh and less.
    • Category 2 – Small: The MSMEs that are reporting annual revenue of Rs 50 lakh to Rs 5 crore.

    Present Ambiguity and structural Gap in defining MSMEs

    • Lack of Clarity and Consistency in defination: In India, the MSMED Act of 2006 categorized MSMEs based on investment in plants and machinery, which led to industries keeping their plants small to maintain MSME advantages.
      • However, the MSMED Amendment Bill, 2018 proposed defining MSMEs solely based on yearly turnover, which has been criticized for under-reporting of qualifying enterprises.
    • Quantitative vs. Qualitative Approaches: There are two main techniques for defining MSMEs: quantitative and qualitative, with MSMEs typically defined using a quantitative approach. Quantitative criteria like number of employees, total assets, and yearly revenue have limitations as they vary by industry and sector.
    • Impact on Micro Enterprises: The ambiguity in defining MSMEs negatively impacts micro-enterprises, leading to issues like delayed payments and limited access to benefits and support schemes.
      • Moreover, the unregistered micro-enterprises have been worse hit by the COVID-19 pandemic than small and medium enterprises, with micro-enterprises accounting for more than two-thirds of all MSMEs and having a higher rate of informality.

    Way forward:

    • Enhanced Data Collection: Conduct regular and comprehensive surveys to gather detailed data on MSMEs, particularly focusing on micro-enterprises.
    • Further Classification within Micro-Enterprises: Establish sub-categories within the micro-enterprise category based on revenue thresholds (e.g., below Rs 10 lakh, Rs 10-25 lakh, Rs 25-50 lakh).
    • Revenue Diversity: Significant variation in revenue among micro-enterprises necessitates further classification.
    • Targeted Policies: Addressing classification gaps can enhance policy effectiveness, supporting micro-enterprise growth and sustainability.

    BACK2BASICS
    Program and Policies Explanation
    MSME Development Act, 2006 Provides the legal framework for defining MSMEs and their classification into micro, small, and medium enterprises.
    Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises Provides credit guarantee cover of up to 75% of the credit to micro and small enterprises.
    Udyog Aadhaar A simple online process for MSME registration, requiring only the Aadhaar number and a self-declaration.
    MSME Samadhaan Mechanism to facilitate the promotion and development of MSMEs, including Khadi, Village, and Coir Industries.
    Mudra Yojana Provides loans up to 10 lakh to non-corporate, non-farm small/micro enterprises.
    ZED Scheme Aims to enhance the manufacturing capabilities and competitiveness of MSMEs through Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) certification.
    Stand-Up India Facilitates bank loans between 10 lakh and 1 crore to at least one Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) borrower and at least one woman borrower per bank branch

     

    Make in India: Focuses on making India a global manufacturing hub, with MSMEs playing a crucial role.

    Stand-Up India: Facilitates bank loans between 10 lakh and 1 crore to at least one Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) borrower and at least one woman borrower per bank branch

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Account for the failure of manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labour-intensive rather than capital-intensive exports. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Why worker housing is the key to unlocking India’s manufacturing ambitions

    Why in the News?

    The emphasis on workers’ accommodation in the manufacturing sector is gaining traction in the news due to its potential to address key challenges and unlock India’s manufacturing ambitions.

    About  India’s goal to $10 trillion by 2035

    India aims to grow its economy to $10 trillion by 2035, with a specific focus on transforming the manufacturing sector to increase its GDP share from 15% to 25%. This ambitious goal involves a four-fold growth in manufacturing to enhance employment elasticity.

     

    Present Challenges:

    • Inadequate Infrastructure: Many factories currently lack the necessary infrastructure to support large-scale manufacturing, particularly in terms of workers’ accommodation.
    • Land Regulation: Existing industrial land allocation regulations do not typically account for worker housing, necessitating regulatory changes at the state level.
    • Commute and Productivity: Workers often face long commutes, with studies showing travel times of up to two hours each way, leading to exhaustion and reduced productivity.
    • Living Conditions: Many workers live in ad hoc accommodations, which are not ideal for maintaining a stable and productive workforce.
    • Skill Gaps: There is a need for more targeted skill development programs to enhance worker productivity and adaptability to new manufacturing processes and technologies.
    • Lack of Coordinated Policy: There is a need for a more coordinated approach between state and central governments to provide the necessary fiscal and policy support.

    Economic Factors that will steer Enlightened Self-Interest:

    • Transportation Savings: By providing on-premises or factory-adjacent accommodation, companies can significantly reduce transportation costs, estimated at over Rs 5,000 per worker per month.
    • Increased Productivity: Reduced commute times and better living conditions can lead to increased worker productivity.
    • Reduced Attrition: Better living conditions and reduced commuting stress can decrease workforce attrition, ensuring a more stable and experienced workforce.
    • Better Training Facilities: On-site accommodation can facilitate better training programs, enhancing workers’ skills and productivity.
    • Lower Carbon Footprint: Reducing the need for long commutes can lower the overall carbon footprint of manufacturing operations.

    Way forward:

    • Tax and Fiscal Incentives: The Union government can catalyze investment in workers’ accommodation through tax incentives, GST reductions, and other fiscal benefits.
    • Priority Sector Tagging: Tagging workers’ accommodation as a priority sector for construction finance can attract more investment.
    • Collaborative Financing: Leveraging vehicles like the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) to finance credible worker housing projects can boost infrastructure development.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The nature of economic growth in India in recent times is often described as a jobless growth. Do you agree with this view? Give arguments in favour of your answer. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • 10th World Water Forum

    Why in the News?

    • The World Bank report, titled “Water for Shared Prosperity,” was released at the 10th World Water Forum in Bali, Indonesia.
      • It underscores the widening gap in access to water resources and services, exacerbated by factors like population growth, urbanization, and climate change.

    Water for Shared Prosperity: Key Highlights of the Report

    • In 2022, 2.2 billion people lacked access to safely managed drinking water services, while 3.5 billion lacked access to safely managed sanitation.
    • Over 800 million people globally are at high risk of drought, with double that number living in flood-prone areas.
    • Low-income countries have seen a regression in access to safe drinking water, with an additional 197 million people lacking access since 2000.
    • Rural-urban access gaps in low-income countries have remained largely unchanged over the last two decades.
    • Hotspots in regions like the Sahel, Southeastern Africa, and South and Central Asia experience the highest water stress.
    • The Democratic Republic of the Congo holds over half of Africa’s total water resources.

    About World Water Forum:

    • It is a large-scale international event that focuses on the discussion and development of solutions to global water-related challenges. 
    • It is held every three years. The first forum took place in took place in Marrakesh, Morocco in March 1997.
    • It is organized by the World Water Council, an international organization.
    • It brings together stakeholders from various sectors including governments, organizations, businesses, and academia to promote awareness, build political commitment, and trigger action on critical water issues at all levels.

    What is the World Water Council (WWC)?

    • The World Water Council was founded in 1996.
    • The idea for the WWC emerged from discussions during the International Water and Sanitation Congress & Exhibition in 1994 and the subsequent Ministerial Conference on Drinking Water and Environmental Sanitation in 1996.
    • WWC’s activities focus on targets related to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), among others.
    • The Council was established by renowned water specialists and international organizations, including academic institutions, private companies, governments, and NGOs etc.
    • Objective: The primary aim of the Council is to raise awareness about critical water issues at all levels, including the highest decision-making levels, to facilitate efficient conservation, protection, development, planning, management, and use of water resources globally.
    • Membership: The WWC boasts a diverse membership base comprising over 300 member organizations in approximately 50 countries.

    Key Functions and Contributions:

    • World Water Forums:  It is the world’s largest event on water and gathers participants from various sectors to discuss and collaborate on water issues.
    • Policy Influence: The WWC works to influence policy by facilitating discussions among political and economic decision-makers.
    • Research and Advocacy: Through its publications, policy papers, and strategic projects, the WWC fosters greater understanding and awareness of water issues.

    PYQ:

    [2016] The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the human miseries. Explain.

    [2012] If National Water Mission is properly and completely implemented, how will it impact the country?

    1. Part of the water needs of urban areas will be met through recycling of waste water.
    2. The water requirement of coastal cities with inadequate alternative sources of water will be met by adopting appropriate technologies that allow for use of ocean water.
    3. All the rivers of Himalayan origin will be linked to the rivers of peninsular India.
    4. The expenses incurred by farmers for digging bore wells and for installing motors and pump sets to draw groundwater will be completely reimbursed by the Government.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Key Highlights of World Migration Report, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has recently launched the World Migration Report 2024.

    Back2Basics: International Organization for Migration (IOM)
    Details
    About
    • Originated in 1951 as the Provisional Intergovernmental Committee for the Movement of Migrants from Europe (PICMME) after World War II’s upheavals.
    • In 2016, IOM agreed with the United Nations, becoming a related organization.
    Headquarters Geneva, Switzerland
    Members
    • Currently has 175 Member States and 8 states with Observer status.
    • India became an IOM Member State on 18th June 2008.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Climate Change Impacts on Migration
    • The report highlights a significant increase in global migration due to environmental impacts and climate change, with more than 216 million people projected to be on the move within their countries by 2050.
    • Migration is being used as a strategy to cope with and adapt to the adverse effects of climate change, although its effectiveness varies based on individual circumstances and active involvement of migrants.

    Specific Regional Insights:

    • Africa:
    • Climate change has led to severe weather changes, including decreased rainfall and increased temperatures in North Africa, contributing to migration.
    • Countries like Libya, Algeria, and Morocco have seen migration due to reduced rainfall and increased drought conditions.
    • Asia:
      • In South Asia, particularly Pakistan and Bangladesh, extreme weather events like floods have led to substantial displacement.
      • The 2022 floods in Pakistan resulted in nearly 1.7 million displacements and in Bangladesh, record-breaking floods in 2022 triggered over 1.5 million displacements.
      • In India, strong influence of climate impacts on internal migration from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

    Remittances Inflows in India

    • According to the Report, India has consistently been the top recipient of remittances globally. In 2022, India received a record-breaking $111.22 billion in remittances.

    Remittance Inflows:

    • India is way ahead of its closely ranked peers Mexico ($61.1 billion), China ($51 billion), Philippines ($38.05 billion) and France ($30.04 billion).
    • This is the first time any country has crossed the USD 100 billion mark in remittance inflows.
    • The largest contributions to India’s remittances come from the UAE, USA, and Saudi Arabia, reflecting the extensive Indian diaspora in these regions.

    Migration Statistics:

    • With 18 million international migrants residing primarily in the UAE, USA, and Saudi Arabia, India hosts the world’s largest number of international migrants.
    • This large diaspora plays a crucial role in the economic linkage between India and these countries through remittances.
    • India came in 13th as the destination country for immigrants, with 4.48 million.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades.

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