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Subject: Science and Technology

  • Second National Gene Bank

    Why in the News?

    As part of the Union Budget 2025-26, Finance Minister announced the establishment of a second National Gene Bank in India.

    About the First National Gene Bank

    • Established in 1996 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) in New Delhi.
    • Functions as India’s primary facility for preserving plant genetic resources (PGRs) to safeguard biodiversity.
    • Operates through 12 regional stations across the country for collection and storage of vital crop germplasms.
    • Preserves 0.47 million accessions (plant material for breeding and research) as of January 15, 2025.
    • Maintains genetic resources using four conservation methods:
      • Seed Genebank (-18°C) – Stores seeds for long-term conservation.
      • Cryogenebank (-170°C to -196°C) – Preserves plant tissues in liquid nitrogen.
      • In-vitro Genebank (25°C) – Maintains plant cultures in controlled environments.
      • Field Genebank – Conserves live plants for breeding and research.
    • Protects diverse crop groups, including cereals, millets, legumes, oilseeds, and vegetables.

    About the Second National Gene Bank

    • It aims to store over 10 lakh germplasm lines to strengthen food and nutritional security.
    • It will complement the first National Gene Bank and expand genetic conservation capacity.
    • It is designed to support both public and private sectors in conserving genetic diversity.
    • Features and Significance:  
      • Largest conservation facility in India, expanding germplasm storage capacity beyond the existing 0.47 million accessions in the first gene bank.
      • Ensures germplasm accessibility for future generations, preventing genetic erosion due to habitat loss or overexploitation.
      • Protects India’s agricultural heritage by preserving native, traditional, and rare plant varieties.
      • Aligns with global conservation efforts, including India’s Seed Vault in Chang La (Ladakh) and the Svalbard Global Seed Vault (Norway).
      • Promotes ex-situ conservation, ensuring crop diversity for future breeding, research, and sustainable farming.

    PYQ:

    [2021] What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of society?

  • Samudrayaan Project

    Why in the News?

    In a major boost to India’s Deep Ocean Mission, Finance Minister allocated ₹600 crore for the Samudrayaan project under the Union Budget 2025-26.

    About Samudrayaan Project

    • Samudrayaan is India’s first manned deep-sea mission, designed for exploring ocean resources and conducting deep-sea research.
    • It falls under the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
    • The project involves sending scientists in a deep-sea submersible to explore mineral resources and biodiversity at depths of up to 6,000 metres.
    • With this project, India will join an elite group of nations (USA, Russia, China, Japan, and France) capable of deep-sea manned exploration.
    • Aims and Objectives
      • Deep-Ocean Exploration: Study deep-sea resources, including minerals, hydrothermal vents, and marine biodiversity.
      • Technological Development: Advance underwater robotics, deep-sea mining technology, and manned submersible vehicles.
      • Sustainable Resource Utilization: Explore polymetallic nodules, which contain cobalt, nickel, manganese, and copper.

    Significant Features:

    • Manned Submersible: MATSYA 6000:
      • Being developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai.
      • Developed under Samudrayaan to carry three crew members for up to 12 hours of exploration (extendable to 96 hours in emergencies).
      • Designed for operation at a depth of 6,000 metres.
      • Equipped with life-support systems and scientific sensors.
    • Exploration of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ):
      • Mapping the ocean floor for mineral resources.
      • Conducting geological and environmental studies for sustainable deep-sea mining.

    PYQ:

    [2022] With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements:

    1. A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention.
    2. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea.
    3. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • China’s Artificial Sun creates Record in Fusion Research

    Why in the News?

    China’s Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), commonly referred to as the Artificial Sun, has set a new world record by sustaining a high-confinement plasma operation for 1066 seconds. The artificial sun reached an extreme temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius, surpassing its own previous record of 403 seconds.

    What is the EAST Project?

    • EAST is a nuclear fusion research facility developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP) in 2006.
    • It aims to replicate solar fusion reactions to create a sustainable, clean energy source for future power generation.
    • The project serves as a global research platform for fusion experiments and advancing magnetic confinement technology.
    • It uses superconducting magnets to contain ultra-hot plasma, necessary for fusion.

    Comparison with Other Fusion Projects

    • China’s EAST (Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak):
      • Record: 1066 seconds at 100 million degrees Celsius (2025).
      • Previous Record: 403 seconds at high confinement mode.
      • Goal: Develop a commercial fusion power plant.
    • Korea’s KSTAR (Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research):
      • Record: 100 million degrees Celsius for 20 seconds (2020).
      • Goal: Sustain a longer plasma confinement period.
    • France’s ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor):
      • Largest global fusion project, involving 35 nations.
      • Expected to achieve plasma ignition by 2035.
      • Focuses on demonstrating large-scale fusion feasibility.

    Significance of This Achievement

    • Record-Breaking Fusion Operation: EAST sustained plasma at 100 million°C for 1066 seconds, surpassing its previous record of 403 seconds.
    • Progress Toward Fusion Power Plants: Prolonged plasma confinement is crucial for achieving continuous, self-sustaining fusion reactions.
    • Potential for Clean Energy: Fusion produces zero carbon emissions and could serve as an unlimited energy source once commercially viable.
    • Global Competition: Other projects like ITER (France) and KSTAR (Korea) are also advancing fusion research, aiming for similar breakthroughs.

    Challenges in Nuclear Fusion

    • Extreme Temperatures: Plasma must be sustained at over 100 million°C, requiring high-energy input.
    • Material Limitations: Reactor components must withstand intense heat and radiation, yet no material can do so indefinitely.
    • Energy Input vs. Output: Current reactors consume more energy than they generate, preventing commercial viability.
    • Magnetic Confinement Issues: Plasma instability can disrupt reactions, making sustained fusion difficult.
    • High Costs: Fusion research requires expensive superconductors, cryogenics, and containment systems.

    Difference between Nuclear Fusion and Fission

    Nuclear Fusion Nuclear Fission
    Process Combines atomic nuclei to release energy. Splits heavy nuclei to release energy.
    Energy Output Much higher than fission. Comparatively lower.
    Fuel Source Hydrogen isotopes (Deuterium, Tritium)—abundant in seawater. Uranium-235, Plutonium-239—limited supply.
    Waste Production Minimal radioactive waste (helium byproduct). Produces long-lived radioactive waste.
    Environmental Risk No meltdown risk, completely safe. Risk of radiation leaks (e.g., Chernobyl, Fukushima).
    Current Feasibility Still experimental, not yet commercially viable. Commercially used in nuclear power plants.

  • Asteroid Bennu Samples hold Secrets of Life’s Origins

    Why in the News?

    NASA’s OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security–Regolith Explorer) mission has delivered samples from asteroid Bennu, revealing amino acids, nucleobases, and signs of ancient saltwater, key components in the origins of life.

    Key Findings of the Study:

    • 14 out of 20 amino acids essential for proteins on Earth were found.
    • All five nucleo-bases used in DNA and RNA were detected, indicating prebiotic chemistry beyond Earth.
    • Ammonia & Formaldehyde compounds can react under suitable conditions to form complex organic molecules.
    • It thus supports the idea that asteroids delivered key building blocks for life to early Earth.
    • Calcite, halite, sylvite, and trona were found, indicating prolonged exposure to liquid water.
    • Similar briny conditions have been observed on Ceres and Enceladus, suggesting the solar system had widespread environments suitable for organic chemistry.
    • Life on Earth exclusively uses left-handed amino acids, but Bennu samples show an equal mix, raising questions about why life evolved with this preference.

    About Asteroid Bennu  

    • Asteroid Bennu is a carbon-rich asteroid that orbits between Earth and Mars.
    • It is believed to be a primitive remnant of the early solar system, holding clues to the origins of life.
    • The asteroid is porous, with up to 60% empty space, affecting its collision potential with Earth in the distant future.
    • It periodically ejects material, classifying it as an active asteroid.
    • OSIRIS-REx was NASA’s first asteroid sample-return mission, launched in 2016 to study and collect material from Bennu’s surface.
      • The spacecraft arrived at Bennu in 2018, mapped its surface for two years, and collected samples in 2020.
      • It successfully returned the material to Earth in 2023.
    • The mission aimed to analyze Bennu’s composition, understand its water history, and study the organic molecules that may have played a role in the origin of life.

    Significance of the Study:

    • It strengthens the theory that asteroids contributed to life’s origins by delivering organic molecules and water to early Earth.
    • It confirms that essential ingredients for life were widespread in the early solar system, increasing the possibility of life beyond Earth.
    • It helps refine planetary defense strategies, as Bennu has a small chance of impacting Earth in the future.

    PYQ:

    [2011] What is the difference between asteroids and comets?

    1. Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by rocky and metallic material.
    2. Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury.
    3. Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • ISRO’s 100th launch: why this is significant?

    Why in the News?

    In its first launch of 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation achieved the milestone of 100 launches.

    What does the 100th launch signify for India’s space capabilities?

    The 100th launch underscores ISRO’s growth since its establishment in 1969, showcasing its evolution into a reliable launch partner for both domestic and international satellites. 

    • Technological Advancement: This launch utilized an indigenous cryogenic engine, highlighting India’s advancements in rocket technology. The GSLV series has been instrumental in increasing payload capacity and efficiency during satellite launches, contributing to ISRO’s reputation as a formidable player in the global space arena.
    • Contribution to Navigation Systems: The NVS-02 satellite is part of India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, which enhances India’s capabilities in terrestrial, aerial, and maritime navigation.
      • This satellite will replace the IRNSS-1E satellite and improve the accuracy and reliability of navigation services across India and surrounding regions.

    What are the future plans for ISRO following this milestone?

    • Ambitious Missions: Following this milestone, ISRO aims to undertake several high-profile missions, including a sample return mission from the Moon, a mission to Venus, and the establishment of an Indian space station. These initiatives are part of ISRO’s broader goal to expand its capabilities and presence in space exploration.
    • Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): ISRO is developing a heavier rocket called the NGLV, which will be capable of carrying up to 30,000 kg to low Earth orbit. This vehicle will feature a reusable first stage to enhance cost-effectiveness in launches.
    • Expansion of Infrastructure: Plans are underway to build a third launch pad at Sriharikota to accommodate increased launch frequency and support human spaceflight missions alongside commercial launches.

    How will private sector involvement shape ISRO’s future missions?

    • Collaboration and Innovation: The PSLV-C60 mission exemplified successful collaboration between ISRO and private startups, allowing non-government entities to deploy payloads for in-orbit experiments.
      • This initiative fosters innovation by enabling startups to test their technologies using ISRO’s infrastructure, thereby reducing costs and encouraging diverse contributions to India’s space capabilities.
    • Transitioning Operational Responsibilities: ISRO aims to transfer more operational tasks to private companies, allowing them to manage activities traditionally handled by the agency.
      • This shift is intended to increase efficiency and scalability within the space sector, empowering private entities to take on significant roles in satellite launches and other space activities, thus expanding India’s overall capabilities.
    • Commercialization of Space Activities: The government has focused on increasing India’s share of the global space economy from 2% to 10% over the next decade through public-private partnerships.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Public-Private Synergy: ISRO should continue fostering collaboration with private players by expanding access to launch infrastructure, streamlining regulatory frameworks, and incentivizing innovation through initiatives like IN-SPACe and NSIL.
    • Focus on Heavy-Lift and Reusability: Prioritizing the development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) with reusable technology will enhance cost-effectiveness, positioning India as a competitive player in the global commercial space sector.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Labrys portucalensis F11

    Why in the News?

    A research team has discovered that Labrys portucalensis F11, a strain of aerobic bacteria from the Xanthobacteraceae family, can break down and transform multiple types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of persistent environmental pollutants.

    About Labrys portucalensis F11

    • It is a type of bacteria that can break down harmful chemicals known as PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances).
    • It was first found in contaminated soil at an industrial site in Portugal.
    • Scientists have discovered that it can remove fluorine from certain chemical pollutants, making them less toxic.
    • PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in nature.
    • Labrys portucalensis F11 can digest PFAS, helping to clean up polluted soil and water.

    How does it work?

    • It attacks the strong chemical bonds in PFAS, removing fluorine atoms.
    • It uses carbon from PFAS as food, helping it grow while reducing pollution.
    • It survives in oxygen-rich environments, making it ideal for cleaning up industrial waste sites.
    • In 100 days, it broke down 90% of PFOS, one of the most harmful PFAS chemicals.
    • Unlike most bacteria, it can also break down PFAS leftovers, making them even safer.

    Back2Basics: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

    • Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer products for their waterproof, grease-resistant, and non-stick properties.
    • PFAS are commonly found in non-stick cookware (Teflon), waterproof clothing, food packaging, fire-fighting foams, and industrial applications.
    • These chemicals are known for their high resistance to heat, water, and oil, making them useful but also environmentally persistent.
    • Common Uses:
      • Non-stick cookware (Teflon), waterproof fabrics, stain-resistant coatings, and fire-fighting foams.
      • Industrial applications such as metal plating, food packaging, and electronics manufacturing.
    • Environmental and Health Concerns:
      • PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not naturally degrade and persist in soil, water, and living organisms.
      • Exposure to PFAS has been linked to cancer, liver damage, immune system disruption, and hormonal imbalances.
    • Regulatory Actions:
      • In 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated PFOS (a type of PFAS) as a hazardous substance, requiring strict monitoring and clean-up efforts.
      • Governments worldwide are phasing out PFAS use and funding research into bioremediation technologies like the F11 bacteria-based clean-up approach.
      • In 2020, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) adopted international criteria for sampling and testing certain PFAS compounds, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS).
        • However, comprehensive policies to regulate or ban PFAS are still lacking.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following can be found as pollutants in the drinking water in some parts of India?

    1. Arsenic
    2. Sorbitol
    3. Fluoride
    4. Formaldehyde
    5. Uranium

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 3 only
    (b) 2, 4 and 5 only
    (c) 1, 3 and 5 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • Organophosphate Poisoning in J&K

    Why in the News?

    A mysterious illness in Jammu & Kashmir has caused 17 deaths, with doctors suspecting organophosphate poisoning from pesticides as the possible cause.

    What are Organophosphates?

    • Organophosphates (OPs) are a class of chemical compounds primarily used as pesticides and insecticides in agriculture.
    • They work by disrupting the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), leading to excessive nerve stimulation.
    • It is commonly used in agriculture, household pest control, and chemical warfare agents (e.g., nerve gases like Sarin).
    • It is found in pesticides such as malathion, chlorpyrifos, and diazinon.
    • Effects of OP poisoning:
      • Acute Symptoms: Excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle twitching, breathing difficulty, seizures, and coma.
      • Chronic Effects: Neurological disorders, memory loss, muscle weakness, and reproductive toxicity.

    Treatment for Organophosphate Poisoning

    • Organophosphate poisoning requires immediate medical attention to prevent fatal complications.
      • Decontamination: Remove contaminated clothing, wash exposed skin, and use activated charcoal if ingested.
    • Medical Treatment:
      • Atropine: Blocks excess nerve stimulation.
      • Pralidoxime (2-PAM): Restores enzyme function.
      • Oxygen therapy and ventilator support if needed.
      • Supportive Care: IV fluids, anti-seizure medications, and hospitalization in severe cases.

  • What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?

    Why in the News?

    In an alarming move, the Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases rise to 110 in Pune.

    What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)?

    • GBS is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves, causing muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.
    • It is rare, affecting 1–2 per 100,000 people annually.
    • It is more common in adults and males.
    • It is often triggered by viral or bacterial infections, especially Campylobacter jejuni (a cause of gastroenteritis), influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, Zika virus, or, in rare cases, vaccinations.
    • Its Symptoms: 
      • Early signs: Tingling, weakness in legs spreading to the upper body, pins-and-needles sensation, back pain.
      • Severe cases: Paralysis, breathing difficulties, loss of speech, vision problems.
      • Complications: Can affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to irregular heartbeat, blood pressure fluctuations, and potential respiratory failure.

    Treatment and Recovery:

    • No definitive cure, but treatments include:
      • Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): Removes harmful antibodies attacking nerves.
      • Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Therapy: Injects healthy antibodies to counteract immune attacks.
    • Supportive care: Some patients require ventilator support, physical therapy, and months to years of rehabilitation.

    PYQ:

    [2022] In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:

    1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
    2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector-based platform.
    3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [28th January 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Getting drunk, on homoeopathy

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q.) “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. (CS Mains  2021)

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

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains has always focused on traditional knowledge of medicine (2019) and the health sector (2020).

    A recent Supreme Court ruling in the case of Bhagwati Medical Hall vs Central Drugs Standard Control Organization & Ors. has highlighted the difficult challenge faced by state governments in controlling the public health risk caused by alcoholic tinctures sold as homoeopathic remedies in India. Despite the Union Government’s efforts to address the issue, the strong influence of the homoeopathic industry has often led to legal battles that prevent real progress.

    Today’s editorial discusses the difficult challenge state governments face in managing the health risks from alcoholic tinctures sold as homoeopathic medicines in India. This information can be useful for supporting your argument in GS Paper 1 and 2 answers.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Alcoholic tinctures sold as homoeopathic remedies in India pose a serious risk to public health.

     

    What are the recent changes in homoeopathic tinctures? 

    • Introduction of Rule 106B: Limits alcohol content in homoeopathic tinctures to 12% and restricts retail sale to 30 ml bottles, with larger bottles (up to 100 ml) allowed only for hospitals.
    • Taxation Post-GST: Alcohol for medicinal purposes is taxed at 18%, significantly lower than State taxes on alcoholic beverages, making tinctures a cheaper alternative.
    • Supreme Court’s Intervention: In the Bhagwati Medical Hall case, the SC upheld that only the Union government can regulate homoeopathic tinctures, emphasizing stricter enforcement to address public health risks.

    What are the implications of the recent regulatory changes in homoeopathy?

    • Regulatory Complexity and Taxation Issues: The regulatory architecture for homoeopathic alcoholic tinctures is highly complex, with overlapping jurisdictions between the Union and States.
      • Post-GST, alcohol for medicinal purposes is taxed at 18%, significantly lower than State taxes on alcoholic beverages, making homoeopathic tinctures a cheaper alternative for consumers.
      • States cannot regulate these tinctures without presidential assent, leading to a lack of quality control and public health oversight.
    • Public Health Hazards: Homoeopathic tinctures containing 12% alcohol are often consumed as substitutes for alcoholic beverages, leading to alcohol-related illnesses such as alcoholic hepatitis.
      • For example: States like Gujarat and Bihar, where alcohol is prohibited, have reported deaths due to the consumption of spurious homoeopathic tinctures..
    • Industry Lawfare and Regulatory Delays: The homoeopathic industry has consistently challenged regulations, such as Rule 106B of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, through prolonged litigation.
      • The Union government’s decision to pursue litigation instead of laying Rule 106B before Parliament has further delayed regulatory enforcement.

    How does the public perception of homoeopathy impact healthcare choices?

    • Misleading Perception of Safety: Many consumers perceive homoeopathic remedies as safe and natural, unaware of the high alcohol content in tinctures.
      • This perception leads to the misuse of homoeopathic tinctures as substitutes for alcoholic beverages, especially in prohibition States like Bihar and Gujarat.
    • Lack of Awareness: Poorly informed consumers may consume homoeopathic tinctures daily, believing they are curing ailments, while unknowingly risking alcohol-related diseases.
      • The absence of clear labelling and warnings exacerbates the problem, as consumers are not fully aware of the health risks associated with these products.
    • Impact on Healthcare Choices: The availability of cheap, alcohol-based homoeopathic tinctures influences healthcare choices, particularly among low-income groups seeking affordable alternatives to conventional medicine.
      • This reliance on homoeopathy can delay or prevent access to evidence-based medical treatments, worsening health outcomes.

    What role should evidence-based research play in validating homoeopathic practices? (Way forward)

    • Need for Regulatory Reforms: Research should inform regulatory decisions, such as whether alcohol should be permitted in homoeopathic and ayurvedic products.
      • Countries like the U.S. and U.K. are considering cancer warnings on alcoholic beverages, highlighting the need for similar scrutiny of alcohol-based medicinal products in India.
    • Public Health Policy: Evidence-based research can guide public health policies, ensuring that regulations prioritize consumer safety over industry interests.
      • Research should also address the misuse of homoeopathic tinctures as substitutes for alcoholic beverages, particularly in prohibition States.

  • How has India revised obesity parameters?

    Why in the News?

    A report by the Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Commission emphasized body fat distribution, beyond Body Mass Index (BMI), as a vital health and disease risk indicator. In this response, India has revised its obesity guidelines after 15 years.

    What is the present status of Obesity?

    • Rising Obesity Rates: The obesity rate in India has significantly increased, with approximately 9.8% of women and 5.4% of men classified as obese as of 2022, compared to just 1.2% for women and 0.5% for men in 1990. This translates to around eight crore individuals being classified as obese, including one crore children aged 5 to 19 years.
    • Economic Impact and Healthcare Costs: It is projected that India will spend about $13 million annually on treating obesity-related illnesses by 2025 as per the World Obesity Federation. The rising prevalence of obesity is associated with various non-communicable diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
    • Changing Demographics: The prevalence of obesity is expected to continue rising, with forecasts suggesting that by 2040, around 30.5% of men and 27.4% of women will be either overweight or obese.

    What are the initiatives taken by the government? 

    • National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS): This program aims to screen individuals for obesity-related risk factors and ensure early intervention to prevent complications associated with obesity. It is part of the broader National Health Mission.
    • Eat Right India Movement: Launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), this initiative focuses on transforming the food system to promote safe, healthy, and sustainable food for all citizens. It includes awareness campaigns about nutrition and healthy eating habits.
    • Ayushman Bharat Health Wellness Centres: These centres strengthen preventive healthcare by promoting wellness activities and targeted communication at the community level, addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including obesity.
    • Regulatory Measures: The FSSAI has set guidelines to limit trans fats in food products to no more than 2% by weight and has introduced labelling regulations that require nutritional information on food packaging, helping consumers make informed dietary choices.

    What are the new guidelines?  

    • Terminology Update: The term “overweight” has been removed, categorizing obesity into Grade I (BMI >23 kg/m² without health issues) and Grade II (BMI >23 kg/m² with associated health limitations) to emphasize nuanced stages of obesity.
    • Focus on Abdominal Obesity: Waist circumference (>90 cm for men, >80 cm for women) and waist-to-height ratio are prioritized as critical measures for assessing health risks in Asian Indians

    Why has it been revised after 15 years?

    • Rising Prevalence of Obesity: The prevalence of obesity in India has doubled over the past two decades, with significant increases observed in both adults and children. This alarming trend necessitated a reevaluation of existing guidelines to address the growing public health crisis effectively.
    • Limitations of Previous Guidelines: The previous guidelines, established in 2009, relied solely on Body Mass Index (BMI) for diagnosing obesity.
      • This approach was found inadequate as it did not consider critical factors such as abdominal fat distribution and the unique metabolic responses of Asian Indians, who tend to develop obesity-related health issues at lower BMI thresholds compared to Western populations.
    • Global Framework Alignment: The revised guidelines align with global recommendations from the Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology Commission, which advocates for a broader understanding of obesity as a chronic disease rather than merely excess weight.

    What are the health issues that can develop due to obesity?

    • Cardiovascular Diseases: Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. It contributes to high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels, which are critical risk factors for cardiovascular conditions.
    • Type 2 Diabetes: Excess body weight can disrupt the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, leading to insulin resistance and a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. This chronic condition is closely linked to obesity and can result in severe health complications if not managed properly.
    • Certain Cancers: Obesity is associated with an elevated risk of various cancers, including breast, colon, endometrial, and liver cancers. The increased body fat may influence hormone levels and inflammation, contributing to cancer development.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Public Health Strategies: Strengthen preventive measures through awareness campaigns, promote healthy lifestyles, regulate unhealthy food products, and expand screening programs under initiatives like NPCDCS and Ayushman Bharat.
    • Collaborative Policy Reforms: Enhance inter-sectoral collaboration to address urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary patterns while aligning with global obesity management frameworks for effective, long-term solutions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)