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Type: Explained

  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    India among countries mulling telescopes on, around the moon

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T,Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PRATUSH;

    Mains level: Lunar Missions;

    Why in the news? 

    Astronomers are looking forward to opening a new window on the universe by posting high-resolution telescopes on the moon and in orbit around it.

    Why Astronomers are looking forward to opening telescopes on the moon?

    • Radio telescopes launched into orbit around Earth exacerbated the problem of receiving radio noise from the entire planet, along with signals from outer space.
    • The moon’s far side offers pristine, airless conditions ideal for optical telescopes, providing crystal-clear seeing conditions during the two-week lunar night.

    Global Initiatives to Install Telescope on the Moon:

    • NASA’s LuSEE Night Project: LuSEE Night, a joint NASA-Berkeley Lab project scheduled for launch in December 2025, aims to study the Dark Ages period by landing on the far side of the moon, shielded from radio frequency noise from Earth.
    • ESA’s Projects: ESA is preparing to launch a radio telescope to the moon’s far side aboard its lunar lander, ‘Argonaut’, by 2030, along with other projects focused on gravitational wave detection and infrared observations.
    • China’s Initiatives: China is also actively involved in lunar exploration, with plans to launch a moon-orbiting radio telescope in 2026 and deploy the Queqiao-2 satellite, which includes a radio telescope payload, to serve as a communications relay between Earth and future missions.

    Indian Initiative 

    • PRATUSH: Indian scientists plan to deploy the radio telescope PRATUSH on the moon’s far side, built by the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
    • Deployment Process: Initially, ISRO will place PRATUSH into orbit around the Earth, then fine-tune it before launching it towards the moon. Operating in Earth orbit will offer advantages such as free space operation and reduced ionosphere impact compared to ground-based experiments.
    • Observational Advantages: PRATUSH in lunar orbit will have ideal observing conditions, operating in free space with minimal radio frequency interference (RFI) and no ionosphere, essential for studying the signal from the Dark Ages.
    • Instrument Features: PRATUSH will carry a wideband frequency-independent antenna, a self-calibrating analog receiver, and a digital correlator to capture radio noise in the signal from the Dark Ages.

    Conclusion: The global initiative to deploy telescopes on and around the moon aims to overcome Earth’s radio noise and capitalize on the lunar far side’s pristine conditions for groundbreaking astronomical observations, including studying the universe’s early Dark Ages.

    Mains question for practice 

    Q Discuss the global initiatives to deploy telescopes on the moon.

     

     

     

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  • Labour, Jobs and Employment – Harmonization of labour laws, gender gap, unemployment, etc.

    South Asia, India risk squandering demographic dividend: World Bank

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Issues relating growth and development, employment

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Job for Resilience Report

    Mains level: Main findings in this report

    Why in the News? 

    Recently, the ‘Job for Resilience Report’ was published by the World Bank. The Report talks about how the South Asia region including India is not making use of its demographic dividend.

    • The pace of job creation in the region fell well short of the growth in the working-age population, even as it projected a strong 6.0-6.1% growth for 2024-25 for the region in its South Asia region.’

    Main findings in this report:

    The South Asia’s labor markets as Emerging markets and developing economies: 

    • Declining employment ratio: South Asia’s employment weakened from 2000–23, despite a 6% post-pandemic surge. While most EMDEs remained stable, South Asia declined by 2%, with varied changes within.
    • Low employment ratios: Except for Nepal, South Asian countries have employment ratios significantly lower than other EMDEs, with South Asia’s ratio at 59%, notably lower than the 70% average elsewhere in 2023.
    • Employment weakness for men and women: In South Asia, men’s employment ratios declined over two decades, compared with other EMDEs. Women’s ratios, persistently low and half those elsewhere, primarily contribute to South Asia’s lower overall employment rates.
    • A missing engine of growth: In the 2010s, South Asia experienced a surge in labor productivity growth, which later declined below the EMDE average from 2020–23. Unlike other EMDEs, South Asia’s output growth relied heavily on labor productivity growth and working-age population expansion. However, declining employment ratios hampered output growth.

    Report on Indian Scenario:

    • Trends in employment and labor productivity: India’s employment growth in the 2010s was weak but rebounded post-pandemic. The employment ratio declined significantly until 2022 but partially recovered by 3 percentage points in 2023.
    • Migrant workers:  In India, Migrant workers returned to rural areas, and emigration from rural areas slowed, during the pandemic.5 India has the region’s second-largest share of workers in agriculture (44 per cent) after Nepal.
    • Employment composition: India’s industrial employment grows with public investments, eased labor regulations, and contract labor. The services sector, led by IT, BPO, and healthcare, thrives on a skilled workforce and digital infrastructure, limiting opportunities for unskilled labor.

    Measures to address the challenges highlighted in the Report: 

    • Skill Development Programs: Implementing extensive skill development programs to equip the workforce with the necessary skills demanded by the evolving job market, focusing on both technical and soft skills.
    • Labour Market Reforms: Continuously reviewing and refining labor regulations to strike a balance between protecting workers’ rights and fostering a conducive environment for job creation and investment.
    • Promotion of Inclusive Growth: Implementing policies aimed at promoting inclusive growth, particularly focusing on increasing women’s participation in the workforce through measures like affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, and addressing cultural barriers.
    • Investment in Infrastructure: Continued investment in infrastructure development to facilitate the growth of industries and services, creating more employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas.
    • Enhancing Productivity: Implementing measures to enhance productivity across sectors through technological advancements, innovation, and efficient resource allocation.

    Conclusion: World Bank warns South Asia, including India, risks wasting demographic dividend due to declining employment ratios and low productivity growth. Urgent measures needed: skill development, labor reforms, inclusive growth promotion, infrastructure investment, and productivity enhancement.

    With inputs from:

    https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/4ec19c2d-65fd-4523-8020-338f0cb98523/content

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  • RBI Notifications

    Let’s make ₹ a global currency: PM to RBI

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Global Currency

    Mains level: Indian Trades;

    Why in the news? 

    PM Modi asked the RBI to prepare a 10-year strategy to make the Indian rupee a globally “accessible and acceptable” currency and to meet the credit needs of every segment of the country

    What is Global Currency?

    A global currency refers to a single currency that is used by every country in the world. This concept involves all nations adopting the same currency for international trade and transactions

    What are the major challenges for India to make Rupeea a Global Currency?

    • Economic Stability: The Indian economy would need to demonstrate consistent stability and growth to inspire confidence among international investors and users of the currency.  
    • Liquidity in Financial Market Development:  These markets need to be deep and liquid to accommodate large volumes of international transactions denominated in INR.
    • Capital Controls: India currently has restrictions on capital flows in and out of the country. These would need to be eased to facilitate international trade and investment denominated in INR.
    • Legal and Regulatory Framework: There would need to be robust legal and regulatory frameworks in place to govern the use of the INR in international transactions, including clearing and settlement systems, as well as dispute resolution mechanisms.
    • International/ Investors Acceptance: Convincing other countries, businesses, and individuals to adopt the INR as a global currency would require concerted diplomatic efforts, as well as initiatives to promote its use in international trade and finance.
    • Currency Convertibility: Full convertibility of the INR would be necessary for it to become a global currency.

    Indian Efforts to Make Rupee a Global Currency:

    • RBI’s Roadmap for Rupee Internationalization: The RBI has published a report outlining a roadmap for the internationalization of the Rupee. This roadmap recommends actions such as including the Rupee in the Special Drawing Rights (SDR) basket, promoting its use in trade invoicing and settlement, facilitating its use in offshore markets, and developing financial products denominated in Rupees.
    • Promoting Use of Local Currencies for Cross-Border Transactions: India has been engaging in agreements with countries like the UAE to promote the use of local currencies, including the Rupee, for cross-border transactions.

    Way Forward:

    • Need for Transactions in Rupee: To be an accepted International Currency, the Indian rupee is to be freely used in transactions by residents and non-residents and as a reserve currency for global trade.
    • Need to increase the Exports: Indian Trades need to be promoted beyond the Asian region.  All export and import transactions need to be invoiced in Indian rupees.
    • Reducing the Constraints: Legal and Regulatory frameworks need to be freed to attract investors for their business profits without hampering security concerns.

    https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/lets-make-a-global-currency-pm-to-rbi-101711996093588.html

    https://theprint.in/opinion/indian-rupee-can-become-global-reserve-currency-but-modi-govt-must-bring-reforms-for-that/1738000/

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  • Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

    Why Supreme Court bar unregulated soil extraction for linear projects?

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Executive & Judiciary

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Environment Protection Act,1986; National Green Tribunal (NGT);

    Mains level: Judiciary; National Green Tribunal (NGT);

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the SC revoked the notification given by the Environment Ministry to exempt the extraction of ordinary earth for linear projects, such as road and railway construction.

    • It was challenged before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which asked the Ministry to review it within three months. However, the Ministry did not take any action, leading the matter to reach the SC.

    What are the linear projects? 

    Linear projects refer to Construction or Development Projects. It includes the construction of linear structures like utility lines, pipelines, railroad tracks, highways, stormwater channels, and stream restoration activities.

    What was the 2020 exemption?

    • September 2006: The Environment Ministry issued a notification under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, on activities that would require prior Environmental Clearance.
    • January 2016: A second notification was issued, exempting certain categories of projects from this requirement.
    • March 2020: It added “Extraction or sourcing or borrowing of ordinary earth for the linear projects such as roads, pipelines, etc” to the list of exempted activities.
      • The general purpose of the 2020 notification was to conform to the amendments made to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, in March 2020, allowing new lessees to continue mining for two years with the statutory clearances and licenses issued to their predecessors.

    Nexus between the Judiciary and the Union Government (Ground for Challenges)

      • Judicial stand: The SC invalidated the broad and random exception, highlighting that the announcement was rushed during the COVID-19 lockdown without seeking feedback or objections through prior notification.
    • The exemption granted without incorporating safeguards was deemed arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution.
    • The court emphasized that the absence of safeguards defeats the purpose of the Environment Protection Act (EP Act).
    • An argument by the center: The Center contended that the exemption was essential “to benefit the general public” and would support “the kumhars (potters), farmers, gram panchayats, banjaras, roads of Gujarat,” and all non-mining activities recognized by the states.
      • However, the Apex court stated that the Centre had failed to provide reasons for concluding that the notification was issued in the public interest.

    Similar Judicial Scrutiny in the Past:

    • January 2018: The NGT quashed an exemption offered by the Ministry’s 2016 notification from the requirement of prior EC for building and construction activities having built-up areas of more than 20,000 sq m. According to the Tribunal, there was nothing to suggest an improvement in the quality of the environment to justify the exemption.
    • July 2015: Underlining that the EP Act mandates prior approval, the NGT struck down two Office Memorandums issued by the Ministry in December 2012 and June 2013 for granting ex-post facto EC to projects under the 2006 notification.
    • July 2021: Another notification of the Ministry that sought to perpetuate an amnesty window opened for just six months in March 2017 to clear projects under the “violation category” and issued ex-post facto approval to more than 100 projects, until the SC stayed it in January this year.
    • March 2024: The Kerala HC quashed a 2014 notification that exempted educational institutions and industrial sheds with built-up areas of more than 20,000 sq m from obtaining EC.

     

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court invalidated the Environment Ministry’s exemption for earth extraction in linear projects due to a lack of justification and safeguards, emphasizing compliance with Environmental Clearance to minimize environmental harm, safeguarding the Environment Protection Act’s purpose.

    Mains PYQ

    Q How does the draft EnvironmentImpact Assessment(EIA)Notification, 2020 differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006? (UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • Solar Energy – JNNSM, Solar Cities, Solar Pumps, etc.

    Solar surge: Moving away from imported solar panels

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Environment; Solar Photovoltaic cells;

    Mains level: Environment; Solar Energy;

    Why in the news? 

    The government is finally bringing into effect the policy of an Approved list of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) that will discourage solar power project developers from relying on imported panels. 

    About Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules Order, 2019:

    • Aim: To boost domestic manufacturing of solar panels by registering only those made with domestically manufactured cells, wafers, and polysilicon.
    • Compulsory Registration: The order mandates compulsory registration for solar PV module and cell manufacturers, ensuring they meet certain quality and production standards.
    • Lists: LIST-I for solar PV modules and LIST-II for solar PV cells.
      • Only listed models and manufacturers in these lists are considered approved for use in various government projects and schemes.
    • Eligibility Criteria: To be included in the lists, manufacturers must undergo inspections and meet specific criteria set by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) to ensure the products are genuinely manufactured and not imported.
    • This order ensures the reliability of solar PV products used in installations, promotes domestic manufacturing, and aligns with the government’s initiatives for renewable energy adoption and energy security.

    Efforts made by the Government to promote domestic Solar Manufacturing:

    • Import Restrictions: The creation of the Approved Models and Manufacturers list was aimed at restricting imports from China, which dominates a significant portion of the global solar supply market.
    • Ambitious Renewable Energy Targets: India aims to source about 500 GW of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with at least 280 GW coming from solar power. This necessitates adding at least 40 GW of solar capacity annually until 2030. So there is need to focus on indegenous solar project

    Challenges ahead:

    • Unrealistic Targets: Despite ambitious targets, India’s solar capacity additions have been relatively low in recent years, attributed in part to the COVID-19 pandemic. The country aims to ramp up installations to between 25 GW and 40 GW annually.
    • Reliance on Imports: A significant fraction of India’s solar installations is met by imports, which affects domestic panel manufacturers who must pay for government certification but lose orders to cheaper Chinese panels. For example surge in Solar panel import in  FY 24 around $1,136.28 million  from FY23 imports $943.53 million

    Conclusion: India’s ALMM policy aims to boost domestic solar manufacturing, aligning with ambitious renewable energy targets. Address challenges like meeting targets and reducing reliance on imports through strategic planning and support.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)

    https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/renewables/how-india-became-a-frontrunner-in-the-global-renewable-energy-market/articleshow/100271905.cms?from=mdr

    https://mnre.gov.in/approved-list-of-models-and-manufacturers-almm/

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1944075

    https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/indias-solar-panel-imports-set-to-remain-higher-in-fy24/106217488#:~:text=During%20the%20initial%20six%20months,million%2C%20according%20to%20Eninrac%20Consulting

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Two States: a comparison on access to life-saving C-sections

    Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: NA

    Mains level: Health Governance;

    Why in the News?

    The study released by IIT Madras highlights the concerns related to high rates of C-section deliveries among women in Tamil Nadu, particularly in private hospitals.

    • This indicates the necessity for corrective measures to address the situation.

    What is a Caesarean section? 

    It is also known as C-section or cesarean delivery, which is the surgical procedure by which one or more babies are delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen.

    It is often performed because vaginal delivery would put the mother or child at risk.

     

    Changes in the share of births delivered by C-sections in public and private sector hospitals in India, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh between 2015-16 and 2019-21.

    • High C-section Rate in Public Hospitals: In public sector hospitals in Tamil Nadu, nearly 40% of women underwent C-sections during 2019-21.
    • High C-section Rate in Private Hospitals: Close to 64% of women underwent C-sections in private sector hospitals in Tamil Nadu during 2019-21, which is significantly higher than both the national average of around 50% and Chhattisgarh’s rate of 59%.
    • Higher than the National Average: The rate of C-section deliveries in Tamil Nadu’s public sector hospitals is substantially higher than the national average, which is approximately 16%. Additionally, it surpasses the rate in Chhattisgarh, where it stands at 10%.

    Reasons behind the increase in C-section rates despite a decrease in pregnancy complications:

    • Regional Disparities: In Chhattisgarh, the likelihood of a woman undergoing a C-section in a private hospital is ten times higher than in a public hospital. This suggests potential disparities in access to high-quality healthcare services between public and private sectors, with implications for maternal health outcomes.
    • Socioeconomic Factors: The study assumes that poorer households opt for public hospitals while richer households prefer private ones for deliveries. This socioeconomic divide may contribute to inequitable access to healthcare services at the national level.
    • Higher Likelihood in Private Health Facilities: Women delivering in private health facilities are more likely to undergo C-sections compared to those in public facilities, with a notable disparity observed in Chhattisgarh.
    • Maternal Age and Weight Status: Factors such as maternal age (35-49) and overweight status increase the likelihood of C-section delivery.
    • High gap between Poor and Rich: In India, the gap in C-section prevalence between the poor and non-poor narrowed in private facilities, but Tamil Nadu exhibited a concerning trend where a higher percentage of the poor underwent C-sections compared to the non-poor.

    Recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO): Cesarean delivery rates should ideally not exceed 10-15% to achieve the lowest maternal and neonatal mortality rates. When C-section rates go beyond 10%, there is no significant decrease in maternal mortality. In 2021, global C-section rates surpassed 20%, and they are projected to increase to 30% by 2030.

    Conclusion: Access to C-sections in Tamil Nadu shows disparities, with high rates in both public and private hospitals. Addressing regional, and socioeconomic factors and adhering to WHO recommendations are crucial for equitable maternal healthcare.

    PYQ Mains 

    Q Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC IAS/2018)

     https://www.indiatoday.in/health/story/rise-in-c-section-deliveries-despite-decrease-in-pregnancy-complications-iit-madras-study-2521773-2024-04-01

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Sri Lanka

     Katchatheevu | What is the controversy all about?

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: India- Srilanka Bilateral Relations; Places in News;

    Mains level: India- Srilanka Bilateral Relations; Places in News;

    Why in the news? 

    Katchatheevu Island, a disputed stretch in the Palk Strait, was ceded to Sri Lanka during late PM Indira Gandhi, through an agreement.

    • Fifty years later, PM Modi, has mounted an attack on the Congress and DMK for ‘callously’ giving it away to Sri Lanka.

    About the Katchatheevu  Island:

    • Katchatheevu is an uninhabited area in the Palk Strait, between India and Sri Lanka.  It was created due to volcanic eruption in the 14th century and is comparatively youthful in the realm of geological chronology.
    • Historically, it was controlled by the Jaffna kingdom of Sri Lanka in the medieval period.
    • However, in the 17th century, control passed to the Ramnad zamindari based out of Ramanathapuram, about 55 km northwest of Rameswaram.
    • The Island became part of the Madras Presidency during the British Raj. But in 1921, both India and Sri Lanka, at the time were British colonies and claimed Katchatheevu to determine fishing boundaries.
    • A British delegation from India challenged this, citing ownership of the island by the Ramnad kingdom. This dispute was not settled until 1974.

    Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement of 1974:

    • In 1974, the Indian government, led by Indira Gandhi at the time, endeavored to definitively resolve the maritime border between India and Sri Lanka.
    • As a component of this arrangement, termed the ‘Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime agreement’, Katchatheevu was relinquished to Sri Lanka.
    • During this period, it was perceived that the island held minimal strategic significance, and relinquishing India’s claim over it was anticipated to foster stronger relations with its southern neighbor.
    • Limitations of the Agreement of 1974:
      • Issue of fishing rights: The 1974 agreement failed to address the issue of fishing rights. Sri Lanka interpreted the access of Indian fishermen to Katchatheevu as being restricted solely to activities such as resting, drying nets, and visiting the Catholic shrine, without the requirement of a visa.
      • The issue concerning EEZ: Further agreement was reached between the two countries, prohibiting fishing within each other’s Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs).
      • However, the proximity of Katchatheevu to the edges of both countries’ EEZs left unresolved questions regarding fishing rights, contributing to ongoing uncertainty.

     

    India’s stand on the Kachchatheevu issue:

    • August 2013: The Union government informed the Supreme Court that the question of reclaiming Kachchatheevu from Sri Lanka did not arise because no Indian territory was ceded to Sri Lanka. Moreover, it was historically disputed territory between British India and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), and the matter was settled through agreements in 1974 and 1976.
    • December 2022: The Union government reiterated the stance, emphasizing that Katchatheevu lies on the Sri Lankan side of the India-Sri Lanka International Maritime Boundary Line as per the agreements. Additionally, it mentioned that the matter was under judicial consideration in the Supreme Court.

    Conclusion: The recent mention of Katchatheevu by Prime Minister Modi ahead of elections in Tamil Nadu highlights its contentious nature. To address fishermen’s issues, diplomatic dialogue and legal clarity are crucial.

    Mains PYQ

    Q What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organizational, technical, and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (UPSC IAS/2022)

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    The ART of India’s HIV/AIDS response

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Laws, Institutions & Bodies Constituted For The Vulnerable Sections

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: HIV Drugs

    Mains level: Objectives of India's National AIDS Control Programme (NACP)

    Why in the news? 

    On April 1, 2004, the Indian government launched Free Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) for Persons living with HIV (PLHIV). This decision has been one of the most successful .

    Emergence of HIV drugs

    • First Antiretroviral Drug Approval: In March 1987, the US FDA approved the first antiretroviral drug, AZT (zidovudine), offering a glimmer of hope for treatment.
    • Additional Drug Approvals: Three more antiretroviral drugs were approved shortly after in 1988, expanding treatment options for HIV/AIDS patients.
    • Introduction of Protease Inhibitors: A significant milestone occurred in 1995 with the introduction of protease inhibitors, a new class of antiretroviral drugs.

    The evolution to free ART

    • Millennium Summit Declaration: In 2000, world leaders at the UN General Assembly’s Millennium Summit set a goal to stop and reverse the spread of HIV.
    • Formation of the Global Fund: The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria was established in 2002, advocating for universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services.
    • High HIV Prevalence in India: In 2004, India had an estimated 5.1 million PLHIV, with a population prevalence of 0.4%. However, very few were receiving ART, with only 7,000 PLHIV on treatment by the end of the year.
    • Free ART Initiative: The Indian government’s decision to provide free ART to all adults living with HIV in 2004 was groundbreaking. This initiative aimed to address the barriers of cost and geographical access to treatment.
    • Expansion of ART Facilities: Over two decades, the number of ART centers in India expanded significantly, from less than 10 to around 700. Additionally, 1,264 Link ART centers have provided free ART drugs to approximately 1.8 million PLHIV.
    • ART Eligibility Criteria Evolution: The criteria for initiating ART evolved over the years, starting from CD4 count less than 200 cells/mm3 in 2004, to less than 350 cells/mm3 in 2011, and less than 500 cells/mm3 in 2016. Finally, in 2017, the “Treat All” approach was adopted, initiating ART regardless of CD4 count.
    • Rapid ART Initiation Policy: In 2021, India adopted a policy of rapid ART initiation, starting individuals on treatment within seven days of HIV diagnosis, and sometimes even on the same day. This swift initiation aimed to improve treatment outcomes and prevent transmission.
    • Complementary initiatives  to stop the HIV epidemic: Provision of free diagnostic facilities; attention on prevention of parent to child transmission of HIV (PPTCT) services; prevention, diagnosis and management of opportunistic infections including management of co-infections such as tuberculosis (TB).

    Objectives of India’s National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) phase 5 by 2025

    Ambitious 95-95-95 Targets: The NACP phase 5 sets ambitious targets known as the 95-95-95 targets, aligned with global targets agreed upon by UNAIDS. These targets aim for:

    • 95% of all people living with HIV to know their HIV status.
    • 95% of all people diagnosed with HIV infection to receive sustained antiretroviral therapy (ART).
    • 95% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy to achieve viral suppression.
    • These targets are aligned with global targets agreed by the UNAIDS.

    Challenges 

    • Delayed Enrolment to ART Facilities:  Late presentation poses challenges to timely initiation of treatment and optimal disease management.
    • Missed doses : Patients often start feeling better after initiating ART, leading to missed doses or discontinuation of treatment that lead to drug resistance

    Measures  

    • Sustained Supply and Availability of ART: Ensuring consistent and uninterrupted access to ART drugs across all regions of the country
    • Private Sector Engagement: Enhancing engagement with the private sector in the care of PLHIV .
    • Training and Capacity Building: Continuous training and capacity building of healthcare staff are essential to  ensure high-quality service delivery.
    • Integration with Other Health Programs: Strengthening integration with other health programs, such as hepatitis, non-communicable diseases (NCDs

    Conclusion

    India’s ART initiative, launched in 2004, has been pivotal in combating HIV/AIDS. With evolving criteria, rapid initiation policies, and ambitious targets, challenges persist, but measures like sustained supply, private sector engagement, and training are being implemented.

    Mains PYQ

    Q What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? ( UPSC IAS/2021) 

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  • Aadhaar Card Issues

    Workers, not tech, should be state’s priority

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: E-Governance

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS)?

    Mains level: Key challenges related to The Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS)

    Why in the news? 

    The Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) has attracted significant attention, mainly because of the many difficulties it encounters

    What is Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS)?

    • The Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) is a unique payment system that utilizes the Aadhaar number as a central key for electronically channelizing government payments

    Aim of ABPS

    • Objective: Provide socio-economically deprived households with work security facilitated by digital technology.
    • Rooted in ideals: Inclusion in the development process, mitigation of inequality and socioeconomic distress.
    • Recognition: Internationally recognized, such as by the United Nations Development Programme, for contributing to a productive, equitable, and connected society.

    Key challenges related to The Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS):

    • Internet Connectivity Issues: Accessibility to stable internet connections in rural areas poses a challenge for implementing the ABPS effectively.
    • Fingerprint Recognition Problems: The ABPS relies on fingerprint recognition for authentication, but issues with fingerprint recognition can hinder the smooth functioning of the system.
    • Difficulties Faced by the Disabled: The system may not be accommodating to individuals with disabilities, leading to exclusion or difficulties in accessing benefits.
    • Unrecorded Working Days: There are instances where the system fails to record the days of work performed by individuals, leading to discrepancies in payment.
    • Name Duplication: Duplicate entries in the system can lead to confusion and errors in identifying beneficiaries and processing payments.
    • Lack of Awareness: Insufficient awareness among beneficiaries about the ABPS and its processes can result in underutilization or misuse of the system.
    • Errors in Linking and Authentication: Issues may arise during the linking of Aadhaar details with the payment system, leading to authentication errors and payment delays.

    Potential of (ABPS) technology 

    • Progressive Principles: Technology has the potential to serve progressive principles globally and historically, contributing to the advancement of societies.
    • Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Technological interventions can play a crucial role in achieving the SDGs, with rural employment guarantee schemes in India serving as effective pathways towards several SDGs, both directly and indirectly.
    • Effective Utilization of Budgetary Allocation: The substantial budgetary allocation to schemes like MGNREGS should be channeled through a technologically sound system to ensure efficient utilization of funds.

    Conclusion

    The Aadhaar-Based Payment System faces numerous challenges, highlighting the need for prioritizing workers over technology. While technology holds potential, its alignment with socio-economic goals must ensure inclusivity, efficiency, and effective utilization of resources.

    Practice Question for mains 

    Q  Examine the objectives, challenges, and potential of the Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) in India. (150 words )

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  • Corruption Challenges – Lokpal, POCA, etc

    The legal issues surrounding Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest | Explained

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 Act

    Mains level: Application of Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 Act

    Why in the news? 

    A Delhi Court on Thursday extended the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal till April 1 in the money laundering case

    Context

    Mr Kejriwal was arrested on March 21, hours after his plea for interim protection from arrest was rejected by the Delhi High Court. This is the first instance of a Chief Minister in India being put behind bars while still in office.

    ED’s allegations against the Chief Minister

    • Influence on Elections: The ED contends that Money  received by AAP leaders from operators of alcohol businesses were used to influence the 2022 Assembly elections in Punjab and Goa.
    • Favours to South Group: The excise policy was allegedly drafted with the intention of granting favors to the South Group

     Legal issues  

    • Potential Involvement of AAP: If Kejriwal’s vicarious liability (This principle holds a person responsible for the actions of others, based on the concept of agency) is established, AAP could be impleaded as an accused in the case. This could lead to the attachment or confiscation of the party’s assets under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA).
    • Application of Section 70 of the PMLA: This section is often invoked to investigate companies involved in money laundering offenses. It holds individuals responsible if they were in charge or responsible for the company at the time of the offense. However, individuals may not be prosecuted if they can prove lack of knowledge or due diligence to prevent the offense.
    • Definition of “Company”: Explanation 1 of Section 70 of the PMLA defines “company” broadly to include any body corporate, firm, or association of individuals. This could potentially encompass a political party under the definition, as per the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

    What is (PML) Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 Act? 

    An Act to prevent money-laundering and to provide for confiscation of property derived from, or involved in, money-laundering and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

     Reliance on approver’s testimony

    • Definition of an Approver testimony: An approver is someone who has been charged with a crime but later confesses and agrees to testify for the prosecution.
    • Potential Consequences of False Deposition: An approver who provides false testimony can be retried for the offense for which the pardon was granted, according to Section 308 of the CrPC. This provision acts as a deterrent against perjury by the approver.
    • Caution in Reliance: Courts exercise caution when relying on the testimony of an approver due to its inherently suspect nature. The testimony of an accomplice is considered tainted, and courts are wary of potential biases or falsehoods.
    • Corroboration Requirement: To ensure the reliability of the approver’s testimony, corroboration from independent evidence is typically required.
    • Judicial Precedents: The Supreme Court, in cases like Mrinal Das and Ors. v. State of Tripura (2011), has emphasized the importance of corroborative evidence in convicting the accused based on the testimony of an approver.
    • Judicial Scrutiny: Courts meticulously scrutinize the testimony of an approver and assess its credibility in light of corroborative evidence and other factors.

    Conclusion 

    Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest in a money laundering case raises legal complexities, including potential involvement of AAP, application of PMLA, and reliance on approver’s testimony, necessitating cautious judicial scrutiny.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Money laundering poses a serious security threat to a country’s economic sovereignty. What is its significance for India and what steps are required to be taken to control this menace? (UPSC IAS/2013) 

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