Central Idea:Groundwater extraction in northwestern India, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Faridabad, has led to land subsidence and structural damage.
What is Groundwater?
Groundwater is the water found underground in the cracks and spaces in soil, sand and rock.
It is stored in and moves slowly through geologic formations of soil, sand and rocks called aquifers.
Aquifers are typically made up of gravel, sand, sandstone, or fractured rock, like limestone.
Water can move through these materials because they have large connected spaces that make them permeable.
Aquifers, hand-dug wells, andartesian wells are different types of sources of groundwater.
Reasons for Depletion
Increased demand for water for domestic, industrial and agricultural needs and limited surface water resources lead to the over-exploitation of groundwater resources.
Limited storage facilities owing to the hard rock terrain, along with the added disadvantage of lack of rainfall, especially in central Indian states.
Green Revolution enabled water-intensive crops to be grown in drought-prone/ water deficit regions, leading to over-extraction of groundwater.
Frequent pumping of water from the ground without waiting for its replenishment leads to quick depletion.
Subsidies on electricityand high MSP for water-intensive crops is also leading reasons for depletion.
Inadequate regulation of groundwater laws encourages the exhaustion of groundwater resources without any penalty.
Deforestation, unscientific methods of agriculture, chemical effluents from industries, and lack of sanitation also lead to pollution of groundwater, making it unusable.
Natural causes include uneven rainfall and climate change that are hindering the process of groundwater recharge.
Impact of groundwater depletion
Lowering of the water table: Groundwater depletion may lower the water table leading to difficulty in extracting groundwater for usage.
Reduction of water in streams and lakes: A substantial amount of the water flowing in rivers comes from seepage of groundwater into the streambed. Depletion of groundwater levels may reduce water flow in such streams.
Subsidence of land: Groundwater often provides support to the soil. When this balance is altered by taking out the water, the soil collapses, compacts, and drops leading to subsidence of land.
Increased cost for water extraction: As the depleting groundwater levels lower the water table, the user has to delve deep to extract water. This will increase the cost of water extraction.
Mechanism of Land Subsidence
The relationship between excessive groundwater extraction and land subsidence became evident through the analysis of data from Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites.
Excessive groundwater withdrawal, coupled with limited monsoon rain, has resulted in critically low groundwater levels in the region.
Land subsidence occurs when underlying aquifers, which are deep water channels storing percolated water, are not adequately recharged.
The depletion of aquifers causes the layers of soil and rock above them to sink gradually.
This sinking of soil is similar to “soil settlement” observed in mining operations.
Regulation of Groundwater in India
(1) Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA)
It has the mandate of regulating groundwater development and management in the country.
It is constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986.
CGWA issues advisories, public notices and grant No Objection Certificates (NOC) for ground water withdrawal.
(2) National Aquifer Mapping and Management Programme (NAQUIM)
The NAQUIM is an initiative of the Ministry of Jal Shakti for mapping and managing the entire aquifer systems in the country.
It maintains the Hydrological Map of India.
(3) Atal Bhujal Yojana
It is a Central Sector Scheme, for sustainable management of groundwater resources with community participation in water-stressed blocks.
Way Forward
Routine survey: There should be regular assessment of groundwater levels to ensure that adequate data is available for formulating policies and devising new techniques.
Assessment of land use pattern: Studies should be carried out to assess land use and the proportion of agricultural land falling under overt-exploited units.
Changes in farming methods: To improve the water table in those areas where it is being overused, on-farm water management techniques and improved irrigation methods should be adopted.
Reforms in power supply subsidies: The agricultural power-pricing structure needs to be revamped as the flat rate of electricity adversely affects the use of groundwater.
Monitoring extraction: There should be a policy in place to monitor the excessive exploitation of groundwater resources to ensure long-term sustainability.
Central Idea: The Supreme Court emphasized that orders in bail cases should adhere to the constitutional principle of personal liberty.
Supreme Court on Bail
Short debates: Prolonged debates on bail may prejudice the accused in their case.
Upholding liberty: Delays in pronouncing bail decisions impinge on the personal liberty of the undertrial.
No extensive discussions and elaborations: The Supreme Court highlights the significance of brevity (state of being brief, concise) in bail orders.
No early delving into case details: Long orders may unnecessarily delve into the details of the case, which is not appropriate at the bail stage.
Ensuring fairness and impartiality: Such brevity ensures that the case is not unduly influenced or prejudiced during the bail proceedings.
Promptness in pronouncing bail decisions: The Court emphasized the need for prompt pronouncement of bail decisions. Every day of waiting affects the personal liberty of the undertrial.
What is Bail?
Bail is the conditional release of a defendant with the promise to appear in court when required.
The term also means the security that is deposited in order to secure the release of the accused.
Types of Bail in India
Depending upon the sage of the criminal matter, there are commonly three types of bail in India:
Regular bail: Regular bail is generally granted to a person who has been arrested or is in police custody. A bail application can be filed for the regular bail under section 437 and 439 of CrPC.
Interim bail: This type of bail is granted for a short period of time and it is granted before the hearing for the grant of regular bail or anticipatory bail.
Anticipatory bail: Anticipatory bail is granted under section 438 of CrPC either by session court or High Court. An application for the grant of anticipatory bail can be filed by the person who discerns that he may be arrested by the police for a non-bailable offense.
Conditions for Grant of Bail in Bailable Offences
Section 436 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, lays down that a person accused of a bailable offence under IPC can be granted bail if:
There are sufficient reasons to believe that the accused has not committed the offence.
There is sufficient reason to conduct a further inquiry in the matter.
The person is not accused of any offence punishable with death, life imprisonment or imprisonment up to 10 years.
Conditions for Grant of Bail in Non-Bailable Offences
Section 437 of Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 lays down that the accused does not have the right to apply for bail in non-bailable offences.
It is discretion of the court to grant bail in case of non-bailable offences if:
The accused is a woman or a child, bail can be granted in a non-bailable offence.
There is a lack of evidence then bail in non-Bailable offenses can be granted.
There is a delay in lodging FIR by the complainant, bail may be granted.
The accused is gravely sick.
Why bail needs reform?
Huge pendency of undertrials: Referring to the state of jails in the country, where over two-thirds lodged are undertrials,
Indiscriminatearrests: Of this category of prisoners, majority may not even be required to be arrested despite registration of a cognizable offense, being charged with offenses punishable for seven years or less.
Disadvantageous for some sections: They are not only poor and illiterate but also would include women. Thus, there is a culture of offense being inherited by many of them.
Colonial legacy: Theoretically, the court also linked the idea of indiscriminate arrests to magistrates ignoring the rule of “bail, not jail” to a colonial mindset.
What is the law on bail?
The CrPC does not define the word bail but only categories offences under the Indian Penal Code as ‘bailable’ and ‘non-bailable’.
The CrPC empowers magistrates to grant bail for bailable offences as a matter of right.
This would involve release on furnishing a bail bond, without or without security.
Way forward
Bail Law would certainly take care of not only the unwarranted arrests but also the clogging of bail applications before various courts.
With restrictive bail conditions and a conservative view on bail, we may forget the meaning of personal liberty, which is the greatest of human freedoms enjoyed in India.
The birth of a baby using three persons’ DNA using Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT) in the UK has generated significant attention and discussion.
The baby has three parents, with the mitochondria coming from a donor in addition to the genetic material from the biological parents.
This pioneering technology was employed to prevent the baby from inheriting the mother’s mitochondrial disease.
What is Mitochondria?
Description
Structure
Membrane-bound organelles with outer and inner membranes
Energy Production
Generate ATP through cellular respiration and oxidative phosphorylation
ATP Production
Breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the inner membrane
DNA and Replication
Possess their own circular DNA (mtDNA) and can replicate independently
Other Functions
Involved in calcium signalling, apoptosis, and synthesis of molecules
Inheritance
Maternally inherited during fertilization
Evolutionary Origin
Arise from a symbiotic relationship with bacteria-like organisms
Disorders
Mutations or dysfunction can cause mitochondrial diseases
Certain defects in mitochondria can lead to mitochondrial diseases, impacting the function of energy-hungry tissues in various organs.
Mitochondrial diseases have no cure but can be treated, and their incidence is estimated to be one in 5,000 people.
In this case, the mother had a mitochondrial disease that she wanted to avoid passing on to her baby, but she did not want to use a donor egg.
What is Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT)?
MRT is a medical technique used to prevent the transmission of certain mitochondrial diseases from a mother to her child.
It involves replacing faulty mitochondria in an egg or embryo with healthy mitochondria from a donor.
The procedure is typically performed using in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques.
The nucleus, containing the majority of the genetic material, is transferred from the intended parents’ egg or embryo to a donor egg or embryo with healthy mitochondria.
The resulting embryo, with nuclear DNA from the intended parents and healthy mitochondria from the donor, is then implanted into the mother’s uterus for gestation.
How does it work?
The father’s sperm fertilizes the eggs from the biological mother and a female donor with healthy mitochondria.
The genetic material from the donor’s egg is replaced with that of the biological parents, resulting in an egg with the parents’ DNA and the donor’s mitochondria.
This modified egg is then implanted into the mother’s uterus and carried to full term, resulting in a baby free from the mother’s mitochondrial disease.
Uses of MRT
Prevention of Mitochondrial Diseases: MRT helps prevent the transmission of certain mitochondrial diseases from mothers to their children.
Family Planning: It enables individuals or couples with mitochondrial DNA mutations to have genetically related children without the risk of disease inheritance.
Improved Health: MRT can significantly improve the overall health and well-being of individuals by avoiding debilitating mitochondrial diseases.
Ethical Considerations: It provides an alternative to traditional donor egg options, allowing intended parents to have a child with their own genetic material while avoiding disease transmission.
Scientific Advancements: MRT contributes to scientific research and advancements in assisted reproductive technologies, expanding our understanding of mitochondrial biology and potential treatment options for mitochondrial disorders.
Recent advancements in UK
The baby primarily carries DNA from its biological parents and a small percentage from the donor whose mitochondria was used during fertilization.
Scientific process
Mitochondrial diseases are inherited from the mother, prompting research to find ways to protect infants from inheriting these diseases.
The Newcastle Fertility Clinic developed an advanced in vitro fertilization technique known as Mitochondrial Donation Treatment (MDT).
Legal Facilitation of MDT
The UK government amended the law in 2015 to allow for mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) or MDT.
The Newcastle Fertility Centre became the first center to obtain a license to perform the procedure, and the first cases were approved in 2018.
Issues with MRT
Transfer of Defective Mitochondria: There is a minimal risk of transferring small amounts of defective mitochondria along with healthy ones during the procedure.
Long-Term Safety: The long-term safety of MRT is still being studied, and ongoing monitoring is necessary to assess any potential risks or effects.
Ethical and Social Concerns: MRT raises ethical and social considerations related to the creation and destruction of embryos, use of donor gametes, and altering the germline.
Limited Availability: MRT is a highly regulated procedure, and its availability may be limited to specific countries or cases approved by regulatory bodies.
Emotional and Psychological Impact: Undergoing MRT involves emotional implications and decision-making, which can have an impact on individuals and couples involved.
Central Idea: The article discusses the Palghat (Palakkad) Gap, a significant corridor in the Western Ghats of India. It provides information about the geological origin of the gap.
What is Palghat Gap?
The Palghat Gap is a 40 km wide corridor in the Western Ghats, known for its steep hills and serving as a gateway to Kerala.
It is a crucial passage for roads and railways connecting Coimbatore and Palakkad.
The Bharathappuzha River flows through the Palghat Gap.
The vegetation in the gap is classified as dry evergreen forest, different from the tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats.
The Palghat Gap marks a distinct divide in the flora and fauna of the region.
Geological origin of the Palghat Gap
The Palghat Gap is a geological shear zone running from east to west.
Shear zones are weak regions in the Earth’s crust, occasionally causing tremors in the Coimbatore region.
The formation of the Palghat Gap occurred when the continental shelves shifted after the separation of Australia and Africa from the Gondwana landmass.
India and Madagascar were connected until volcanic activity led to their split, with a similar gap called the Ranotsara Gap in Madagascar.
Biogeographic distinctions and ancient history
The biogeographic distinctions in species north and south of the Palghat Gap may be attributed to an ancient river or an incursion of the sea in the distant past.
Elephant populations on the Nilgiris side of the gap have different mitochondrial DNA from elephants in the Anamalai and Periyar sanctuaries.
DNA analysis of the White-bellied Shortwing, an endemic bird species, shows divergence between populations in the Nilgiris and the Anamalai regions.
Biodiversity south of the Palghat Gap
The southern region of the Western Ghats, located south of the Palghat Gap, exhibits high species richness and phylogenetic diversity.
A recent study reports over 450 tree species, including ancient species like Magnolia champaca, dating back 130 million years.
The warm weather and moist air of the southern Western Ghats support a diverse range of life, making it an island refuge during cycles of ice ages and droughts.
The southern Western Ghats receive rainfall more evenly throughout the year compared to the northern region.
Back2Basics: Western Ghats
The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri mountain range, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 36 biodiversity hotspots in the world.
It spans an area of 160,000 sq. km. and stretches for 1,600 km parallel to the western coast of the Indian peninsula, passing through the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Description
Flora and Fauna
The Western Ghats are home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including over 7,402 species of flowering plants, 1,814 species of non-flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species, 227 reptile species, 179 amphibian species, 290 freshwater fish species, and 6,000 insect species.
Geological Significance
The Western Ghats, known as the “Great Escarpment of India,” are older than the Himalayas. They influence India’s monsoon weather patterns by intercepting rain-laden monsoon winds from the southwest during late summer.
Geographic Features
Stretching north to south along the western edge of the Deccan Plateau, the Western Ghats separate the plateau from the narrow coastal plain called the Western Coastal Plains, which lies along the Arabian Sea.
Catchment Area
The Western Ghats cover a vast catchment area for complex riverine drainage systems, contributing to almost 40% of India’s total drainage. The range acts as a barrier, blocking southwest monsoon winds from reaching the Deccan Plateau.
Technology has become pervasive, impacting various aspects of society, including national and foreign policies, governance, service delivery, and warfare. However, this dependence on technology also exposes critical systems to potential disruptions. Safeguarding critical systems is a nation’s responsibility to ensure the continuity of vital services.
What is critical information infrastructure?
Critical information infrastructure refers to the interconnected systems and assets that are essential for the functioning of a nation’s society, economy, and government. It encompasses the hardware, software, networks, data, and communication channels that support vital services and processes.
It includes sectors such as transportation, energy, banking and finance, healthcare, telecommunications, water and sanitation, emergency services, and government networks.
Protecting critical information infrastructure is crucial to ensure the continuity of services, safeguard sensitive data, and defend against cyber threats, including cyberattacks, data breaches, and other malicious activities.
Differences in defining critical information infrastructure
Criteria for Criticality: Different countries employ distinct criteria to determine the criticality of information infrastructure.
For example: One country may consider infrastructure critical if its failure impacts national security, economy, public health, or safety. Another country may define critical infrastructure based on the potential for sustained supply shortages, disruptions to public safety and security, or other significant consequences.
Scope of Infrastructure: There may be variations in the scope of infrastructure considered critical. While certain sectors like energy, transportation, banking, and telecommunications are commonly recognized as critical across many countries, there might be differences in identifying sub-sectors or specific enterprises within those sectors. Some countries may include additional sectors like water and sanitation, emergency services, healthcare, or government networks in their definition of critical information infrastructure.
Overlapping Criteria: In some cases, the criteria used to identify critical infrastructure may overlap with one another. For instance, ensuring the availability, delivery, or integrity of essential services can encompass vital societal functions, information flow, and communication channels. Harmonizing these overlapping criteria can help establish specific and comprehensive criteria that cater to the needs of all countries.
National Context: National priorities and contextual factors also influence the definition of critical information infrastructure. Countries may consider their unique geopolitical situation, existing threats, vulnerabilities, and the potential impact on their economy and citizens. This context-specific approach allows each country to address its specific challenges and ensure the protection of infrastructure crucial to its national well-being.
Role of the G20 in developing global norms for protecting critical infrastructure
Platform for Discussion: The G20 provides a platform for member countries to engage in discussions and exchanges on pressing global issues, including cybersecurity and the protection of critical infrastructure. It brings together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders from various sectors to share insights, experiences, and best practices.
Building Consensus: The G20 aims to build consensus among member countries on critical issues related to protecting infrastructure. Through dialogue, negotiations, and diplomatic efforts, the G20 seeks to develop common understandings and principles that can guide international cooperation in safeguarding critical information infrastructure.
Initiating Discussions: The G20 has the capacity to initiate discussions on specific topics and themes relevant to critical infrastructure protection. By placing the issue on the G20 agenda, it draws attention to the importance of addressing cybersecurity risks and establishing global norms in this area.
Leveraging Economic Influence: The G20 represents around 85 percent of global GDP, over 75 percent of global trade, and a significant portion of the world population. This economic influence provides the G20 with leverage to drive discussions and encourage member countries to prioritize the protection of critical infrastructure.
Collaboration with International Organizations: The G20 collaborates with international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This collaboration helps leverage the expertise, resources, and frameworks of these organizations to inform discussions and develop comprehensive approaches to protecting critical infrastructure.
Promoting International Stability: The G20 recognizes that protecting critical infrastructure is crucial for international stability and economic cooperation. By advocating for global norms and responsible state behavior, the G20 aims to enhance cybersecurity, prevent disruptions, and promote a secure digital environment for economic activities.
Influencing Policy Development: The G20’s discussions and recommendations on critical infrastructure protection can influence policy development at the national and international levels. Member countries may align their policies and frameworks with the norms and principles identified through G20 deliberations, thereby fostering harmonization and cooperation.
Recommendations to the G20
Common Definition and Critical Sectors: The G20 should adopt a phased approach, beginning with establishing a common definition of critical infrastructure. Subsequently, a broader consensus on critical sectors should be built, followed by the formulation of common principles for regulating critical infrastructure. This process will facilitate a global consensus, ensure cooperation among member countries, and guide nations that are in the early stages of regulating critical infrastructure.
Common Principles: While formulating common principles for regulating critical infrastructure, the G20 should reaffirm and adopt existing norms as the foundation for future discussions. This includes commitments made in G20 documents like the Hamburg Action Plan and the Buenos Aires Declaration. Furthermore, the G20 can draw from the initiatives of other multilateral groupings, such as the G7, G8, and OECD, that have focused on protecting critical infrastructure.
Respecting International Law: The G20 should commit to protecting critical infrastructure and refrain from intentionally damaging it. Member countries should conduct themselves in accordance with international law and uphold responsible state behavior in cyberspace.
International Cooperation: G20 countries must enhance cooperation to prevent, mitigate, trace, and investigate cyber incidents targeting critical infrastructure. Sharing information regarding such incidents should be encouraged. Adopting international standards relevant to critical infrastructure will help harmonize approaches to regulation and enforcement, reducing conflicts and improving cooperation.
Capacity Building: Investing in research and development and building capacity in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), drones, and space is crucial. G20 countries should support low- and middle-income nations in accessing research and technologies. Additionally, countries should respond to requests for assistance from states whose critical infrastructure has been affected, and promote the application of certified security technologies based on international standards.
Multistakeholder Approach: A multistakeholder commitment is vital to protecting critical information infrastructure. Governments, technology companies, and civil society groups should collaborate to share and analyze critical infrastructure information, prevent attacks, and respond to damage. Awareness should be raised to ensure stakeholders understand the nature and extent of critical information infrastructure and their respective roles in protecting it.
National Laws: G20 countries should incorporate the principles and norms for protecting critical infrastructure into their national laws. This will help create a culture of enforcement and cooperation at both the national and international levels.
Institutional Mechanism: Establishing an institutional mechanism for continuous research and the development of new standards for protecting critical infrastructure is essential. Drawing lessons from initiatives like the Christchurch Call, public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in establishing a global order for a safe cyberspace.
Conclusion
The protection of critical information infrastructure is of paramount importance in today’s interconnected world. The G20, with its representation of major economies and commitment to international cooperation, plays a crucial role in developing global norms for safeguarding critical infrastructure. By establishing a common understanding and definition of critical information infrastructure, the G20 can facilitate discussions and build consensus among member countries.
India’s G20 presidency is gaining momentum, with a focus on harnessing shared responsibilities and collaborative governance to enhance global safety from pandemics. It seeks to bridge the gap between the Global North and Global South, recognizing the inclusive memberships of G20 and other plurilateral arrangements that span the global community.
Importance of Health as a global public good
Interconnectedness: In today’s interconnected world, diseases can quickly spread across borders, transcending geographical boundaries. The health of individuals and communities in one part of the world can have direct implications for others. Therefore, addressing health issues becomes a shared responsibility for all nations.
Impact on Global Stability: Health crises, such as pandemics, can have severe social, economic, and political consequences. They can disrupt economies, strain healthcare systems, and cause social unrest. By ensuring health as a global public good, we contribute to global stability, sustainable development, and peaceful coexistence.
Humanitarian Imperative: Health is a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves access to quality healthcare and the opportunity to lead a healthy life. Treating health as a global public good ensures equitable access to healthcare services, regardless of an individual’s nationality or socioeconomic status.
Economic Productivity: Healthy populations are essential for economic productivity and growth. By investing in health as a global public good, we can create conditions for individuals to thrive, contribute to their communities, and participate actively in economic activities.
Prevention and Preparedness: Addressing health as a global public good requires proactive measures to prevent and prepare for health emergencies. By investing in disease surveillance, research, and robust healthcare systems globally, we can better detect and respond to outbreaks, mitigating their impact and saving lives.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Recognizing health as a global public good encourages collaboration among nations. By sharing knowledge, best practices, and resources, countries can collectively work towards improving public health outcomes, fostering innovation, and finding solutions to complex health challenges.
Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: Health is intricately linked to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including good health and well-being (SDG 3), poverty eradication (SDG 1), and gender equality (SDG 5). Treating health as a global public good support the achievement of these interconnected goals, leading to a more equitable and sustainable world.
India’s response to Covid-19: Whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach
Early Measures and Nationwide Lockdown: India implemented one of the world’s largest and strictest nationwide lockdowns in March 2020 to contain the spread of the virus. This decision aimed to break the chain of transmission and provide time to strengthen healthcare infrastructure.
Testing and Surveillance: India significantly ramped up its testing capacity, expanding the network of testing laboratories across the country. The government implemented various testing strategies, including rapid antigen tests and RT-PCR tests, to detect and track Covid-19 cases.
Healthcare Infrastructure: To bolster healthcare infrastructure, the government initiated several measures such as establishing dedicated Covid-19 hospitals, increasing the number of ICU beds, ventilators, and oxygen supply, and mobilizing healthcare professionals to regions facing surges in cases.
Vaccine Development and Rollout: India played a crucial role in vaccine development, with its indigenous vaccine candidates receiving regulatory approval. The country launched an ambitious vaccination drive, prioritizing healthcare workers, frontline workers, and vulnerable populations. India also contributed to global vaccine supply through the export of vaccines under the Vaccine Maitri initiative.
Economic Relief Measures: Recognizing the socioeconomic impact of the pandemic, the government introduced economic relief measures, including financial assistance, direct benefit transfers, and welfare schemes to support vulnerable sections of society affected by lockdowns and job losses.
Collaborations and International Aid: India engaged in international collaborations, sharing its experiences and expertise, and cooperating with other countries in areas such as research, drug repurposing, and knowledge exchange. The country also received international assistance in the form of medical supplies and equipment.
Focus on Healthcare Infrastructure and Research: The government emphasized strengthening healthcare infrastructure, investing in research and development, and promoting indigenous manufacturing of medical equipment and supplies. Efforts were made to enhance testing capacity, develop innovative solutions, and support research on therapies and diagnostics.
Communication and Awareness: The government and health authorities prioritized public communication and awareness campaigns to disseminate accurate information, promote preventive measures, and combat misinformation related to the virus.
What is Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030?
UHC 2030 is a global movement and partnership that aims to accelerate progress towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by the year 2030.
UHC 2030 is a collaborative initiative led by multiple stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector, with the goal of ensuring that all individuals and communities have access to essential healthcare services without suffering financial hardship.
UHC 2030 builds upon the commitment made by United Nations member states in 2015 through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Challenges in achieving UHC by 2030?
Financing: Adequate and sustainable financing is crucial for UHC. Many countries struggle with limited healthcare budgets, inefficient resource allocation, and inadequate public financing. Mobilizing sufficient funds to cover the costs of expanding healthcare services and ensuring financial protection for all individuals can be a significant challenge.
Health Workforce: The availability, distribution, and quality of healthcare professionals pose challenges to UHC. Many countries face shortages of skilled healthcare workers, particularly in rural and remote areas. Strengthening the health workforce, ensuring equitable distribution, and improving their training and retention are critical for delivering quality healthcare services.
Health Infrastructure: Insufficient and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, including facilities, equipment, and technologies, can hinder the achievement of UHC. Many regions, especially in low-income countries, lack the necessary healthcare infrastructure to provide essential services to all populations. Investments in infrastructure development and strengthening are required to expand access and ensure quality care.
Inequities and Vulnerable Populations: UHC aims to address health inequities and reach vulnerable and marginalized populations. However, socioeconomic disparities, gender inequalities, and discrimination can hinder equitable access to healthcare services. Special attention is needed to address these inequities and ensure that UHC benefits all individuals, irrespective of their social or economic status.
Health Information Systems: Establishing robust health information systems is essential for effective UHC implementation. However, many countries face challenges in data collection, management, and utilization. Strengthening health information systems, including electronic health records and data analytics, is crucial for monitoring progress, making informed decisions, and improving service delivery.
Political Will and Governance: UHC requires strong political commitment and effective governance. Political will at the national level is necessary to prioritize UHC, allocate resources, and implement necessary policy reforms. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient governance mechanisms are crucial to prevent corruption, ensure equitable service delivery, and maintain public trust.
Changing Disease Patterns: The evolving burden of diseases, including the rise of non-communicable diseases, poses challenges to UHC. Chronic conditions require long-term management and specialized care, placing additional strain on healthcare systems. Adapting healthcare delivery models and integrating prevention and control strategies for these diseases are essential components of UHC.
Global Health Security: Public health emergencies and global health security threats, as witnessed during the Covid-19 pandemic, can disrupt healthcare systems and hinder progress towards UHC. Strengthening health emergency preparedness and response capacities is vital to mitigate the impact of outbreaks and ensure continuity of healthcare services.
How India’s G20 presidency: Significant role in achieving UHC by 2030
Knowledge Sharing and Best Practices: As the G20 president, India can facilitate the sharing of knowledge and best practices among member countries. This includes sharing successful UHC models, innovative healthcare delivery approaches, and strategies to overcome challenges. By promoting knowledge exchange, countries can learn from each other’s experiences and accelerate progress towards UHC.
Advocacy for UHC: India can use its platform as G20 president to advocate for UHC as a global priority. Through diplomatic channels and international forums, India can emphasize the importance of UHC in achieving sustainable development and equitable healthcare access. This advocacy can encourage other G20 member countries to prioritize UHC and align their policies and actions accordingly.
Collaboration with Global Health Organizations: India’s G20 presidency can facilitate collaboration with global health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), World Bank, and other relevant entities. By working closely with these organizations, India can contribute to the development and implementation of strategies and initiatives that support UHC, including capacity building, technical assistance, and funding mechanisms.
Promoting Innovative Financing Mechanisms: India can explore and promote innovative financing mechanisms for UHC. This includes advocating for increased public investment in healthcare, exploring public-private partnerships, and encouraging the development of social health insurance schemes. By identifying and sharing successful financing models, India can provide valuable insights to other G20 countries on sustainable funding for UHC.
Strengthening Primary Healthcare Systems: India’s G20 presidency can focus on strengthening primary healthcare systems, which are integral to UHC. This involves enhancing access to quality primary healthcare services, addressing health workforce shortages, improving infrastructure, and promoting preventive and promotive healthcare measures. Sharing India’s experiences and initiatives in primary healthcare can inspire other countries to invest in this essential aspect of UHC.
Leveraging Digital Health Technologies: India has made significant strides in adopting digital health technologies, and its G20 presidency can highlight the potential of these technologies in advancing UHC. By sharing digital health success stories and facilitating collaborations in areas such as telemedicine, health information systems, and mobile health applications, India can accelerate the adoption of digital solutions for healthcare access and delivery.
South-South Cooperation: India’s G20 presidency can promote South-South cooperation and collaboration among G20 member countries and other nations from the Global South. By fostering partnerships, sharing experiences, and supporting capacity-building efforts, India can facilitate collective progress towards UHC in regions that face similar challenges.
Conclusion
India’s G20 presidency aims to leverage collaborative governance and shared responsibilities to create a safer world from pandemics. India’s engagement with Japan’s G7 presidency and the focus on resilient, equitable, and sustainable UHC and global health architecture development further demonstrate shared responsibilities and the commitment to addressing public health emergencies. Through collective efforts, we can heal our planet, foster harmony within our global family, and offer hope for a better future.
The Union Budget of the current year has faced widespread criticism for its dwindling allocations towards welfare schemes, undermining the importance of social spending in the post-COVID-19 recovery phase. Over the years, central allocations for welfare schemes and sectors ensuring basic rights have steadily decreased as a proportion of GDP. This alarming trend raises concerns about the government’s commitment to addressing crucial issues such as child malnutrition, hunger, and education.
Key Welfare Programs
Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0: These programs aim to address child malnutrition and hunger. Starting from 2021-22, the Anganwadi program (Integrated Child Development Services – ICDS) was merged with POSHAN Abhiyaan and a nutrition scheme for adolescent girls.
Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Scheme: The MDM scheme provides nutritious meals to approximately 12 crore children in schools. The program has shown positive outcomes, including improved attendance, learning outcomes, and reduced stunting among children.
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA): MGNREGA guarantees 100 days of employment per rural household and plays a vital role in providing income support to rural households.
National Food Security Act (NFSA): NFSA aims to provide subsidized grains to over 80 crore people, ensuring food security.
National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP): NSAP provides pensions and monetary assistance to vulnerable sections such as the elderly, widows, and disabled individuals below the poverty line.
PM Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): The scheme provides conditional cash transfers to women in the unorganized sector, aiming to cover all eligible women and births as per the NFSA mandate
Concerns regarding their resource allocations
Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0: The allocation for these programs has decreased from 0.13% of GDP in 2014-15 to 0.07% in 2023-24. This decline in budgetary support raises concerns about the programs’ ability to effectively address child malnutrition and hunger.
MDM Scheme: The budget allocation for the MDM scheme has decreased by 50% as a share of GDP, from 0.08% in 2014-15 to 0.04% in 2023-24. This reduced allocation poses challenges in providing nutritious meals to children and improving their overall health outcomes.
MGNREGA: The MGNREGA expenditure as a share of GDP has declined from 0.26% in 2014-15 to 0.20% in 2023-24. This decrease in allocation raises concerns about the program’s ability to provide sufficient employment opportunities to rural households.
National Food Security Act : The expenditure on NFSA as a share of GDP has decreased from 0.94% in 2014-15 to 0.65% in 2023-24. This reduction in allocation poses challenges in ensuring food security for a significant population.
National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP): The allocation for NSAP as a share of GDP has declined from 0.06% in 2014-15 to 0.03% in 2023-24. This decrease raises concerns about the adequacy of pensions and monetary assistance provided to vulnerable sections.
PM Matru Vandana Yojana: The PMMVY budget falls significantly short of the required amount, hindering its effectiveness in providing adequate maternity benefits.
Why these is distress among the working class?
Low Wages and Income Inequality: Many workers, particularly those in the informal sector, earn low wages that are insufficient to meet their basic needs. Income inequality further exacerbates the disparity between the wages of the working class and the higher-income groups, leading to financial distress.
Lack of Job Security: Many working-class individuals, especially those in the informal economy, face precarious employment conditions without job security or benefits. Uncertainty regarding employment continuity, lack of social protection, and limited access to formal labor rights contribute to their distress.
Limited Access to Social Protection: A significant portion of the working-class lacks access to adequate social protection mechanisms, such as health insurance, pension schemes, and unemployment benefits. This leaves them vulnerable to economic shocks and reduces their resilience in times of crises.
Declining Real Wages: Despite economic growth, the growth in real wages has not kept pace, resulting in stagnation or minimal growth in purchasing power for many workers. This phenomenon limits their ability to improve their living standards and contributes to distress.
Exploitative Working Conditions: The working class often faces exploitative working conditions, including long working hours, unsafe work environments, lack of breaks, and limited rights to collective bargaining. These conditions can negatively impact physical and mental well-being, contributing to distress.
Lack of Skill Development and Upward Mobility: Limited opportunities for skill development and upward mobility can trap workers in low-wage jobs with limited prospects for advancement. This lack of upward mobility can lead to frustration and distress among the working class.
Inadequate Social Services: Insufficient access to quality healthcare, education, and affordable housing places an additional burden on the working class. The lack of affordable and accessible services exacerbates their financial stress and limits their ability to meet essential needs.
Way Ahead
Prioritize Social Spending: The government should prioritize social spending, especially in the post-COVID-19 recovery period, to ensure adequate resources for welfare schemes. Allocating sufficient funds to programs addressing child nutrition, working class welfare, social assistance, and education is essential to uplift vulnerable sections of society.
Increase Budget Allocations: The budget allocations for child nutrition and hunger programs, such as Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, and the mid-day meal scheme need to be increased to effectively tackle malnutrition and improve children’s health outcomes. Adequate funding will ensure the successful implementation and expansion of these programs.
Strengthen MGNREGA and NFSA: Recognizing the importance of MGNREGA and NFSA in providing rural employment and food subsidies, the government should prioritize and enhance the budget allocations for these schemes. This will support the livelihoods of the rural population and alleviate poverty and distress.
Focus on Wage Growth: To address the distress among the working class, there should be a focus on policies that promote wage growth. This can be achieved through skill development programs, labor reforms, and measures to improve the employment ecosystem, ensuring better wages and improved livelihoods.
Enhance Social Security Programs: The government should consider increasing allocations for social security programs, such as the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), to provide adequate support to the elderly, widows, and disabled individuals. Raising the pension amounts and expanding the coverage will help alleviate financial hardships among vulnerable sections of society.
Allocate Sufficient Funds for Education and Healthcare: Given the importance of education and healthcare, the government should allocate adequate funds for school education and healthcare infrastructure. This will help improve access to quality education, reduce dropout rates, and ensure affordable and accessible healthcare for all.
Improve HDI and Social Indicators: To uplift India’s Human Development Index (HDI) rank and address rising malnutrition levels, it is crucial to increase social expenditure in proportion to the country’s GDP growth. This can be achieved by redirecting revenue foregone due to tax concessions and adopting efficient fiscal management practices.
Strengthen Monitoring and Evaluation: Effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms should be put in place to ensure that allocated funds are utilized efficiently and reach the intended beneficiaries. Regular assessment of the impact and outcomes of welfare schemes will help identify areas of improvement and enable evidence-based policy decisions.
Facts for prelims
Prevalence of Iron deficiency anemia in India
Iron deficiency anemia is a significant public health concern in India. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted in 2019-2020, the prevalence of anemia among women aged 15-49 years is 53%, while among children aged 6-59 months, it is 41%.
Iron deficiency anemia affects both rural and urban populations, with higher rates observed in certain regions and vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and young children.
What is Iron deficiency anemia?
It is a common type of anemia that occurs when there is a lack of iron in the body. Iron is an essential mineral needed for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues throughout the body.
When iron levels are insufficient, the body is unable to produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to a decrease in oxygen-carrying capacity and resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and difficulty concentrating.
Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by inadequate dietary intake of iron, poor iron absorption, chronic blood loss, or certain medical conditions.
Conclusion
The decline in allocations for welfare schemes in the Union Budget raises concerns about the government’s commitment to social development, impacting crucial areas such as child nutrition, working-class welfare, and access to education and healthcare. To foster inclusive growth, there is an urgent need to prioritize social expenditure, increase budget allocations, and address the pressing issues facing vulnerable sections of society.
The Supreme Court in a recent judgment held that the Delhi Government has legislative and executive powers over administrative services in the National Capital, excluding matters relating to public order, police and land.
It also reiterated its stand The Lieutenant Governor shall be bound by the decision of Delhi government over services, apart from public order, police and land.
In this context, this edition of the Burning Issue will expand this judgment in detail and the overall background of the issue.
Key Highlights of the Judgment
(1)Disagreement with Justice Bhushan’s Judgment
The Supreme Court stated that it does not agree with Justice Ashok Bhushan’s judgment that the Delhi government has no power over services.
(2) Article 239A and Legislative Assembly for NCT
The Supreme Court highlighted that Article 239A establishes a legislative assembly for the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
The members of the legislative assembly are elected by the electorate of Delhi, and the interpretation of Article 239A should support representative democracy.
(3)Limits of Power
The court clarified that the control over services does not extend to areas related to public order, police, and land.
“The ideal conclusion would be that GNCTD ought to have control over services, subject to exclusion of subjects which are out of its legislative domain related to public order, police and land. However, legislative and executive power over services such as Indian Administrative Services or Joint Cadre Services which are relevant for the implementation of policies and the vision of NCTD in terms of day-to-day administration of the region, SHALL LIE WITH THE GNCTD”
– Supreme Court of India
(4)Delhi Government Represents Representative Form of Government
According to the Supreme Court, the Delhi government, like other states, represents the representative form of government.
Any expansion of the central government’s power would contradict the Constitutional scheme.
(5) Impact on Ministers’ Control
The court noted that if administrative services are excluded from the legislative and executive domains, ministers would be excluded from controlling civil servants responsible for implementing executive decisions.
(6) Executive Power and Existing Law
The court clarified that the executive power of the state is subject to existing union laws.
(7)Principle of Collective Responsibility
The Supreme Court emphasized that if officers do not report to ministers or fail to follow their instructions, the principle of collective responsibility will be affected.
(8) Triple Chain of Accountability
“If a democratically elected government is not given the power to control the officers, the principle of triple chain of accountability will be redundant. If the officers stop reporting to the Ministers or do not abide by their directions, the principle of collective responsibility is affected” — SC
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud highlighted that denying democratically elected governments the power to control officers would render the principle of the triple chain of accountability redundant.
Background: Special Status for New Delhi-Article 239AA
Article 239AA of the Constitution of India granted Special Status to Delhi among Union Territories (UTs) in the year 1991 through the 69th constitutional amendment. It provided a Legislative Assembly and a Council of Ministers responsible to such Assembly with appropriate powers.
That’s when Delhi was named as the National Capital Region/territory (NCT) of Delhi.
As per this article – Public Order, Police & Land in NCT of Delhi fall within the domain and control of Central Government which shall have the power to make laws on these matters.
For remaining matters of State List or Concurrent List, in so far as any such matter is applicable to UTs, the Legislative Assembly shall have the power to make laws for NCT of Delhi.
The Centre-State Dispute
Delhi was given a fully elected legislative assembly and a responsible government through an amendment in the constitution in 1991. Since 1991, Delhi had been made a UT with an assembly with “limited legislative powers”.
Cordial relations have prevailed between the Central and Delhi governments since 1996 and all differences have been resolved through discussions and also because of the fact that both Centre and State had same political party rule.
However, since 2015, delhi has been witnessing power struggle as Centre and State are under rule of different political parties.
The disagreement arose when then L-G Najeeb Jung appointed officers as the acting chief secretary. CM Kejriwal objected to this action, deeming it unconstitutional.
In May 2015, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification stating that the Department of Services, responsible for the transfer and posting of Delhi government officers, fell under the jurisdiction of the Centre through the L-G.
The Delhi government challenged this decision in the Delhi High Court, but the court ruled against them. Subsequently, the state approached the Supreme Court, which determined that the L-G must follow the advice of the cabinet of ministers.
Despite the resolution of the previous issue, the matter of services remained unresolved. It was later referred to a two-judge bench of the Supreme Court, which reached a split verdict in 2019.
A three-judge bench then forwarded the case to a five-judge bench in 2022 for further consideration.
Lt. Governor at the Centre stage
The Article 239AA while conferring on the assembly the power to legislate on all matters in the state list as well as the concurrent list except land, police and public order – contained one sore point.
It said that in case of a difference between the L-G and the council of ministers, the matter shall be referred to the president by the LG for his decision and pending such decision the LG can take any action on the matter as he thinks fit.
It is this issue that the constitution bench of the Supreme Court resolved in 2018, when it said that the government does not have to seek the concurrence of the L-G on its decisions.
Any differences between them should be resolved to keep in view the constitutional primacy of representative government and co-operative federalism. It is after this judgement, the Centre brought up NCT of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2021 Bill
NCT of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2021
Among the major proposed amendments, one makes it explicitly clear that the term “government” in any law made by the Legislative Assembly shall mean the L-G.
This, essentially, gives effect to the former L-G 2015 assertion that “Government means the Lieutenant Governor of the NCT of Delhi appointed by the President under Article 239 and designated as such under Article 239 AA of the Constitution”.
The Bill adds that the L-G’s opinion shall be obtained before the government takes any executive action based on decisions taken by the Cabinet or any individual minister.
What was the 2018 Supreme Court Verdict?
In its 2018 verdict, the five-judge Bench had held that the LG’s concurrence is not required on issues other than police, public order and land.
It had added that decisions of the Council of Ministers will, however, have to be communicated to the LG.
The L-G was bound by the aid and advice if the council of ministers, it had said.
The Bench of then CJI status of the LG of Delhi is not that of a Governor of a State, rather he remains an Administrator, in a limited sense, working with the designation of Lieutenant Governor”.
It had also pointed out that the elected government must keep in mind that Delhi is not a state.
Is the L-G left with no discretionary power?
The L-G does have the power to refer any matter, over which there is a disagreement with the elected government, to the President under Article 239AA (4).
The Delhi Law Secretary had in 2019 written in an internal memo that the elected government cannot use the SC verdict to keep the L-G in the dark about its decisions.
But the SC had also categorically pointed out that the L-G should not act in a mechanical manner without due application of mind so as to refer every decision of the CM to the President.
Way forward
Delhi’s governance needs a new re-imagination. Learning from international examples, and conceptualizing a new structure, can be a way forward.
Delhi cannot be unitary
What distinguishes Delhi from other federal districts is sheer size. Its population would subsume the populations of the above-mentioned cities.
Its closest peer is Mexico City. In a significant development, Mexico City was upgraded from federal district to the country’s 32nd state in 2016.
This was driven by the desire to provide more responsive government for residents.
Decentralisation of decision-making is important
There are alternative ways in which both the central government as well as state authorities can partake jointly in the management of the city.
This might be achieved by a two-tier metropolitan authority.
Control over police
Control over policing has been a major point of contention in Delhi.
With the lone exception of Abuja, in other federal districts, the local governments have jurisdiction over at least some aspects of policing.
Conclusion
The apex court should intervene now and advantage of the current controversy to permanently settle the jurisdiction. India will only prosper if all of its states do as well.
The solid foundations of federalism and democracy on which our country has thrived will begin to crumble if there is strife between the Centre and the states.
Central Idea: The RBI has issued an advisory to banks and other RBI-regulated entities regarding the transition away from London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) July 1.
What is London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)?
Explanation
Definition
LIBOR is a benchmark interest rate used in financial transactions such as loans, derivatives, and bonds.
It is the interest rate at which banks can borrow funds from other banks in the London interbank market.
It serves as a benchmark rate for various financial transactions worldwide.
Calculation Method
LIBOR rates are calculated based on submissions from a panel of major banks in London.
These banks estimate their borrowing costs for various currencies and tenors.
The submissions are used to calculate an average rate, which is published daily by the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), the administrator of LIBOR.
Currencies and Tenors
LIBOR is calculated for different currencies and tenors ranging from overnight to one year.
The currencies include USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, CHF, and others.
The tenors represent the time periods for which the rates are quoted.
Importance
It has been widely used since the 1980s as a benchmark for financial contracts worth trillions of dollars globally.
It serves as a reference rate for various loans, derivatives, and other financial instruments.
Why is RBI moving away from LIBOR?
Like many other countries, has been working towards transitioning away from LIBOR. The primary reasons for this transition include:
Manipulation risks: Following the global financial crisis in 2008, there were concerns about the reliability and potential manipulation of LIBOR.
Discontinuation of LIBOR: The regulatory authority in the UK that oversees LIBOR, announced in 2017 that it will no longer compel banks to submit the necessary data to calculate LIBOR after the end of 2021.
Adoption of alternative Reference Rates: Various countries, including India, have identified and adopted alternative reference rates that are more reliable and based on actual market transactions. Ex RBI introduced the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR).
Alignment with International Standards: Many countries have already initiated the shift to alternative reference rates, necessitating India’s alignment to maintain consistency and harmonization in international financial markets.
Risk Mitigation: RBI’s move aims to mitigate the potential risks associated with an unreliable or manipulated benchmark rate.
Related terminologies
Mumbai Interbank Forward Outright Rate (MIFOR): MIFOR is a benchmark rate used in Indian financial markets. It represents the forward premium or discount on the USD-INR exchange rate based on the LIBOR rate.
Fallbacks: They are provisions inserted into contracts to establish alternative reference rates if the original benchmark rate (such as LIBOR) becomes unavailable or unreliable.
