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Type: Explained

These Newscards correspond to the explained section of various newspapers. They become immensely important for both prelims and mains and special attention needs to be paid to them

  • How should India tackle diabetes load?

    Why in the News?

    On International Diabetes Day (November 14), the Lancet shared a global study showing over 800 million adults have diabetes, and more than half aren’t receiving proper treatment.

    What is the controversy over the numbers and the difference in Testing Methodology?

    • The Lancet study reported that diabetes was significantly higher in number than the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) estimates (just over 100 million). This stark contrast raises questions about the accuracy and methodology used in both studies.
    • The primary reason for the discrepancy lies in the methodologies used to measure blood sugar levels:
      • The Lancet study utilized various methods including fasting glucose and HbA1C (a three-month glycated hemoglobin average) from data across 200 countries.
      • The ICMR study relied on fasting and two-hour post-prandial blood sugar tests using an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), which is considered the gold standard in India.
    • Experts argue that using HbA1C can lead to inflated numbers due to its sensitivity to factors like age and anemia.
      • For instance, a person without diabetes might still show elevated HbA1C levels based on their physiological characteristics, which can skew prevalence estimates.

    What are the issues raised in the Lancet study?

    • Global Inequalities in Treatment: The study highlighted significant disparities in diabetes treatment access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where treatment rates are stagnating despite rising diabetes cases. This raises concerns about long-term health complications for untreated individuals.
    • Rising Rates of Diabetes: The findings underscore that diabetes rates have increased dramatically, especially Type 2 diabetes, which poses a growing public health challenge. This trend is alarming given that many affected individuals are younger and at risk for severe complications.
    • Complications and Healthcare Burden: With a large number of individuals requiring treatment, there is a looming healthcare crisis regarding complications such as kidney failure, heart disease, and vision loss, which could overwhelm healthcare systems.

    What steps need to be taken? (Way forward)

    • Enhanced Awareness and Education: There is a pressing need for widespread education on diabetes prevention through nutrition and physical activity. Public health campaigns should focus on promoting healthy lifestyles to mitigate risk factors associated with diabetes.
    • Policy Changes: Governments must implement policies that restrict unhealthy food options while making healthy foods more affordable. This includes subsidies for nutritious foods and initiatives to create safe spaces for physical activity.
    • Targeted Interventions for Vulnerable Populations: Special attention should be directed towards vulnerable groups, particularly women who may be at higher risk post-pregnancy or during menopause. Tailored interventions can help address specific risk factors prevalent in these populations.
    • Investment in Healthcare Infrastructure: To effectively manage the rising burden of diabetes, there must be significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, especially in low- and middle-income countries where resources are limited.
    • Long-Term Strategic Planning: A comprehensive long-term strategy is essential to combat the growing diabetes epidemic, requiring collaboration between governments, healthcare providers, and communities to ensure sustainable health outcomes.

    Mains PYQ:

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

  • Crimes against humanity

    Why in the News?

    UNGA committee approved a resolution to initiate negotiations for the first-ever treaty to prevent and punish crimes against humanity after Russia withdrew potentially obstructive amendments.

    What are the present laws governing the conflict?

    • The 1949 Geneva Conventions provide the foundational legal framework for humanitarian protection during armed conflicts. These treaties outline the responsibilities of states to protect civilians and ensure humane treatment for non-combatants.
    • While the International Criminal Court (ICC) addresses war crimes and genocide, there is currently no specific treaty that comprehensively covers crimes against humanity. The ICC recognizes crimes against humanity as acts committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack against civilians, which include offenses such as murder, torture, and sexual violence.
      • The ICC operates as a court of last resort, intervening only when national courts are unable or unwilling to prosecute these crimes

    Why there is a need for a treaty dealing with the Crimes Against Humanity Treaty?

    • Legal Gaps: Existing international treaties cover war crimes and genocide but do not specifically address crimes against humanity. This lack creates a legal void that allows perpetrators to evade accountability for serious offenses committed against civilian populations.
    • Increasing Incidence of Crimes: There has been a notable rise in crimes against humanity globally, with reports of such offenses in countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, Ukraine, and Myanmar. A dedicated treaty would facilitate international cooperation in prosecuting these crimes and provide a framework for justice.
    • Strengthening International Law: A new treaty would reinforce the international justice framework by imposing obligations on states to prevent and punish these crimes, thereby enhancing global standards for human rights protection.

    What would be the step towards a Crimes Against Humanity Treaty?

    • Preparatory Sessions: Scheduled for 2026 and 2027, these sessions will prepare the groundwork for formal discussions on the treaty.
    • Formal Negotiating Sessions: Three-week sessions are planned for 2028 and 2029 to finalize the treaty’s text.
    • Broad International Support: The initiative is backed by Mexico, Gambia, and 96 other countries, indicating a strong international commitment to addressing these serious human rights violations

    Way forward: 

    • Adopt a Survivor-Centric and Inclusive Approach: Ensure the treaty prioritizes the rights of victims, incorporates survivor input, and mandates comprehensive support mechanisms while maintaining a robust, enforceable legal framework.
    • Strengthen Global Collaboration: Mobilize international cooperation, with developed nations providing financial and technical assistance, to build national capacities for prosecuting crimes against humanity and preventing impunity.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q At the international level, the bilateral relations between most nations are governed on the policy of promoting one’s own national interest without any regard for the interest of other nations. This leads to conflicts and tensions between the nations. How can ethical consideration help resolve such tensions? Discuss with specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Why the world needs a Global Plastic Treaty?

    Why in the News?

    Over 170 countries will meet in Busan, South Korea, starting for the fifth and final round of negotiations on a legally binding global treaty to combat plastic and marine pollution by 2024.

    Why is a Global Plastic Treaty required?

    • Massive Increase in Plastic Production: Global plastic production has rapidly increased from 234 million tonnes in 2000 to 460 million tonnes in 2019, with expectations to reach 700 million tonnes by 2040. Asia is the largest producer, contributing nearly half of global plastic production.
    • Environmental and Health Impact: Plastic takes 20 to 500 years to decompose, and less than 10% is recycled. Around 400 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated annually, which is expected to rise by 62% by 2050. Much of this waste enters rivers and oceans, breaking down into microplastics that harm marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Human Health Risks: Chemicals in plastics can disrupt hormones and cause diseases like cancer, diabetes, reproductive disorders, and neurodevelopmental impairments.
    • Contribution to Climate Change: Plastic production generates 3.6% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with most emissions coming from the production process, which relies on fossil fuels.
    • Global Plastic Pollution: India contributes significantly to global plastic pollution, accounting for 20% of the world’s total plastic waste, with emissions of 9.3 million tonnes.

    What is on the Negotiating table?

    • Comprehensive Global Rules: The primary goal is to develop a legally binding global treaty to address plastic pollution throughout its life cycle, including its production from fossil fuels, waste management, and disposal.
    • Production and Waste Management Caps: Countries are debating the introduction of production caps, which have been opposed by oil-rich and plastic-producing nations, including India.
    • Types of Plastic and Chemical Additives: Discussions are ongoing regarding banning specific types of plastic, plastic products, and harmful chemical additives used in their production.
    • Recycling and Content Targets: The treaty might include legally binding targets for recycling and recycled content in consumer goods.
    • Just Transition for Affected Communities: There will be talks on supporting workers and communities whose livelihoods depend on plastic production and industries, ensuring a fair transition.
    • Financial and Technical Assistance: A key agenda item is how to mobilize private and public funding to meet the treaty’s goals, especially for developing countries.

    What is India’s position?

    • India does not support caps on plastic production, arguing that such measures go beyond the scope of the UNEA resolution adopted in 2022. India insists that the treaty must include provisions for financial and technical support, including technology transfer for developing countries.
    • India maintains that decisions regarding harmful chemicals in plastic production should be based on scientific studies and that regulation should be handled at the National level.
    • India has banned 19 categories of single-use plastics domestically but insists that decisions on banning other plastic products should be “pragmatic” and consider national circumstances.
    • India advocates for the establishment of a mechanism to assess the infrastructure needs and financial resources required for safe and scientific waste management.
    • It also emphasizes the need for adequate, timely, and predictable financial resources to support waste management and other treaty objectives.

    Way forward: 

    • Global Collaboration with National Flexibility: The treaty should foster global collaboration on plastic pollution while allowing flexibility for countries to implement solutions based on their unique socio-economic contexts and developmental priorities.
    • Enhanced Financial and Technological Support: Developed countries must provide financial and technological assistance to developing nations to ensure equitable implementation of the treaty’s provisions, especially for waste management infrastructure and transitioning away from plastic reliance.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the impediments in disposing the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes which are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment? (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • What is Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, launched at Brazil G20?

    Why in the News?

    The recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featured the official launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty (referred to as “the Alliance”).

    What are the primary objectives of the Global Alliance?

    • Eradication of Hunger and Poverty: The Alliance aims to eliminate hunger and poverty by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • Support for Vulnerable Populations: It focuses on providing targeted assistance to vulnerable groups through various initiatives, including cash transfers and school meal programs.
    • Resource Mobilization: The initiative emphasizes large-scale resource mobilisation to support its objectives, aiming to reach 500 million people through income distribution programs by 2030.

    Who are the key stakeholders involved in this initiative?

    • The Alliance has 148 founding members, including 82 countries such as India, Brazil, and Bangladesh.
    • It includes participation from 26 international organizations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNICEF.
    • Nine financial institutions and 31 philanthropic foundations and non-governmental organizations are also involved in supporting the Alliance’s goals.

    How will Alliance function?

    • The Alliance serves as a platform for countries to share best practices and access technical expertise or financial support from other member nations.
    • It offers more than 50 evidence-based policy instruments that member countries can utilize to develop their national strategies against hunger and poverty.
    • Unlike traditional funding bodies, the Alliance does not have an exclusive fund but acts as a matchmaking entity connecting countries in need with donors and technical support providers. Its operational costs are estimated at $2-3 million annually, funded by member contributions.

    What challenges does the Global Alliance aim to address in combating hunger and poverty?

    • Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has exacerbated issues of hunger and poverty, reversing progress made toward the SDGs. The Alliance aims to counteract these setbacks by fostering international cooperation.
    • Global Inequalities: It addresses deepening social, racial, and gender inequalities that have been intensified by recent global crises.
    • Food Insecurity Projections: Current trends suggest that without intervention, millions will continue to live in extreme poverty and hunger by 2030—double the target levels set in the SDGs. The Alliance seeks to reverse these projections through coordinated action.

    Conclusion: The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty aligns with SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by mobilizing resources, fostering collaboration, and implementing targeted interventions to combat hunger, poverty, and inequalities, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (UPSC IAS/2024)

  • Democratising AI needs a radically different approach

    Why in the News?

    Policymakers globally are addressing Big Tech’s dominance in AI by investing in sovereign cloud infrastructure, open data platforms, and supporting start-ups, yet these measures may inadvertently reinforce Big Tech’s control.

    How can we ensure that AI is implemented in a way that upholds democratic values?

    • It promotes Open Data Initiatives: While open data can enhance AI systems, it must be safeguarded against commercial capture by larger entities. Initiatives should focus on making data accessible and usable for smaller players without allowing Big Tech to monopolize it.
    • It invests in Public Compute Infrastructure: Establishing public computing resources can provide alternatives to private cloud services dominated by Big Tech. However, these resources must be competitive in terms of cost and functionality to be effective.
    • It fosters Smaller AI Models: Shifting focus from large-scale deep learning models to smaller, theory-driven AI models can democratize development. This approach emphasizes domain expertise and lived experiences over sheer data volume, which aligns better with democratic values.

    What role should public participation play?

    • Engagement in Policy Development: Involving diverse stakeholders, including community representatives and industry experts, can help create policies that reflect a broader range of interests and concerns regarding AI deployment.
    • Transparency and Accountability: Mechanisms should be established to ensure transparency in AI decision-making processes. Public oversight can help hold organizations accountable for their AI practices, particularly regarding data usage and algorithmic biases.
    • Community-Centric AI Solutions: Encouraging local communities to participate in the design and implementation of AI solutions can lead to more equitable outcomes. This involvement ensures that AI applications address specific community needs rather than serving corporate interests alone.

    What are the risks associated with technocratic governance?

    • Concentration of Power: The dominance of Big Tech can lead to a concentration of power where a few entities dictate the terms of AI development and deployment. This scenario risks sidelining smaller players and reducing diversity in innovation.
    • Surveillance and Privacy Concerns: The use of AI for surveillance by powerful corporations can threaten individual privacy rights. Policymakers must carefully consider the implications of deploying AI technologies that could exacerbate existing inequalities or infringe on civil liberties.
    • Erosion of Public Trust: If the public perceives that AI governance is primarily driven by technocratic elites without adequate input from citizens, trust in these systems may erode. This distrust can hinder the effective implementation of AI technologies that could otherwise benefit society.

    Way forward: 

    • Establish Inclusive AI Governance: Create multi-stakeholder frameworks involving governments, communities, and smaller players to ensure transparency, accountability, and equitable access to AI resources, safeguarding against monopolistic practices.
    • Prioritize Ethical, Small-Scale AI Development: Shift focus from large-scale deep learning models to theory-driven, domain-specific AI solutions that respect privacy, foster community involvement, and address localized needs, promoting democratic values in AI deployment.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) hasinitiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • A bilateral investment treaty with a ‘bit’ of change

    Why in the News?

    The bilateral investment treaty (BIT) between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), signed earlier this year, has recently been made public. This new treaty will replace the 2014 India-UAE investment agreement and holds significant importance.

    What is the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) for investors?

    • The Model BIT is a framework established by India to guide negotiations for bilateral investment treaties, aiming to protect foreign investments while balancing the state’s regulatory rights.
    • It emphasizes clear definitions, local remedies, and limits on investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) claims.

    Background of  2024 BIT: 

    • The 2014 India-UAE investment treaty, formally known as the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA), was established to enhance economic cooperation and protect investments between India and the United Arab Emirates.
    • This treaty aimed to create a stable and predictable investment climate for investors from both countries, facilitating foreign direct investment (FDI) flows.
    • The 2014 BIPPA was replaced by a new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) signed in February 2024, which came into effect in August 2024.
    • This new BIT introduces several changes aimed at improving investment protection and reducing arbitral discretion while maintaining India’s regulatory sovereignty.

    What are the implications of India’s revised Model BIT for foreign investors?

    • Enhanced Investor Protection: The new BIT aims to provide greater protection for foreign investments while balancing the state’s right to regulate. This is expected to boost investor confidence by assuring minimum standards of treatment and non-discrimination.
    • Quicker Access to ISDS: The reduction of the local remedies exhaustion period from five years to three years allows investors to access international arbitration more quickly if disputes arise, potentially making India a more attractive destination for foreign investments.
    • Clearer Definitions and Reduced Discretion: By refining the definition of what constitutes an investment and removing subjective criteria related to the significance of investments for host state development, the BIT reduces arbitral discretion, which can lead to more predictable outcomes in dispute resolution.

    How does the India-UAE BIT depart from the Model BIT?

    • Exhaustion of Local Remedies: As noted, the India-UAE BIT lowers the exhaustion period from five years to three years, reflecting India’s responsiveness to concerns about lengthy legal processes in its judicial system.
    • Removal of Development Significance Criterion: The BIT omits the requirement that investments must significantly contribute to the host state’s development—a criterion present in the Model BIT. This change simplifies the definition of what constitutes an investment eligible for protection, reducing subjective interpretations by ISDS tribunals.
    • No Reference to Customary International Law: Unlike the Model BIT, which links treaty violations to customary international law (CIL), Article 4 of the India-UAE BIT does not reference CIL, thereby limiting arbitral discretion and providing clearer grounds for evaluating state actions against investments.
    • Prohibition on Third-Party Funding: The new treaty explicitly disallows third-party funding in ISDS proceedings, which may impact investors’ ability to finance their claims against states without personal financial risk.

    What are the positives and future opportunities for India-UAE BIT relations?

    • Strengthened Economic Cooperation: The BIT is expected to enhance bilateral economic ties by providing a stable legal framework that encourages investment flows between India and the UAE, both of which have significant stakes in each other’s economies.
    • Increased FDI Inflows: With UAE being a key source of foreign direct investment (FDI) for India, estimated at around $19 billion, the new treaty is anticipated to stimulate further investments, benefiting various sectors in both countries.
    • Alignment with Broader Economic Agreements: The BIT complements other agreements such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), reinforcing a comprehensive framework for economic collaboration beyond just investment protection.
    • Potential Influence on Future Treaties: India’s approach in negotiating this BIT may serve as a model for future treaties with other countries, reflecting a more flexible stance that could attract additional foreign investments while still safeguarding national interests.

    Conclusion: The India-UAE BIT offers stronger investment protection, quicker dispute resolution, and clearer definitions, fostering bilateral economic ties. This new agreement balances investor rights and state regulation, encourages increased FDI, strengthens economic cooperation, and could influence future treaties for enhanced global investment.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How will the I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • The SECI solar bid at the centre of Gautam Adani’s US indictment

    Why in the News?

    A 2019 tender by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) is now central to a US district court indictment alleging that Gautam Adani and others offered ₹2,029 crore ($265 million) in bribes to Indian officials.

    What specific allegations have been made regarding the SECI solar bid?

    • The US Department of Justice alleges that Gautam Adani and his associates offered approximately ₹2,029 crore (US $265 million) in bribes to Indian government officials.
    • This was to facilitate the signing of power supply agreements (PSAs) between SECI and state electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs), which were initially reluctant to engage due to high energy prices following the tender bidding process.
    • Failure to Secure Agreements: After SECI awarded the tender, which included 12,000 MW of generation capacity and 3,000 MW of module manufacturing capacity, it struggled to finalize PSAs with DISCOMs.
    • This inability jeopardized the lucrative letters of award (LOAs) that Adani Green and Azure Power expected from the project.

    How has SECI’s role in the solar bidding process been scrutinized?

    • SECI is a public sector entity under the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, tasked with promoting renewable energy sources in India.
    • Its role as a facilitator in power procurement has come under scrutiny due to its inability to secure buyers for the power generated under this tender.
    • Challenges Faced: SECI’s difficulties in finding buyers stemmed from DISCOMs’ reluctance to commit to PSAs at higher tariffs when they anticipated further reductions in solar power prices due to market conditions.
      • This situation created a fertile ground for alleged corrupt practices as companies sought alternative means to secure contracts.
    • Impact on Credibility: The allegations have raised questions about SECI’s operational integrity and its effectiveness in managing large-scale renewable energy projects, potentially undermining public trust in governmental processes related to renewable energy procurement.

    What are the potential repercussions for India’s renewable energy sector?

    • Investor Confidence: The indictment could deter foreign investment in India’s renewable energy sector, as potential investors may view the allegations as indicative of systemic corruption within the industry.
    • Regulatory Scrutiny: Increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies both domestically and internationally may lead to tighter regulations and oversight on bidding processes and contract awards in the renewable sector.
    • Market Dynamics: If proven true, these allegations could disrupt existing contracts and lead DISCOMs to reassess their engagement with solar projects, particularly if they fear further legal ramifications or reputational damage associated with such contracts.
    • Long-term Impact on Policy: The case could catalyze reforms aimed at improving transparency and accountability within government procurement processes for renewable energy projects, potentially reshaping how future tenders are conducted.

    Way forward: 

    • Rebuild Investor Confidence: The government must actively engage with international stakeholders, assuring them of corrective actions and fostering a business-friendly environment through improved governance and adherence to global best practices in renewable energy projects.
    • Strengthen Regulatory Frameworks: India should enhance transparency in renewable energy procurement by establishing robust anti-corruption mechanisms, independent oversight committees, and clear guidelines to prevent undue influence in tender processes.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at the World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Why India’s trade deficit is not necessarily a weakness?

    Why in the News?

    India’s ongoing trade deficit, where imports exceed exports, is often viewed as a sign of weakness in Indian manufacturing.

    What is the nature of India’s trade deficit?

    • Trade Deficit in Goods: As of October 2024, India recorded a merchandise trade deficit of $27.1 billion, which narrowed from $31.5 billion in the same month the previous year.
    • Net Exporter of Services: India has established itself as a significant player in the global services market, with services exports constituting a substantial portion of its overall trade.
      • In FY 2023-24, India’s services exports amounted to approximately $309 billion, contributing significantly to offsetting the goods trade deficit
    • Foreign Capital Inflows: The trade deficit is often viewed positively as it correlates with India’s ability to attract foreign investment.
      • For instance, India’s current account deficit was about 1.1% of GDP in June 2024, indicating that capital inflows are necessary to balance this outflow.
    • Current Account Balance: The current account deficit (CAD) reached approximately $9.7 billion in the April-June 2024 quarter, reflecting the need for capital inflows to support economic growth and stability.
      • India’s current account deficit has been maintained at around 2% of GDP, which is generally considered manageable within the context of its economic growth and investment strategies.

    Why do we hold reserves?

    • Cushion Against Economic Shocks: Reserves are held as a safeguard against potential economic disruptions, such as sudden spikes in oil prices that could worsen the current account deficit.
    • For Cost Management: While holding reserves incurs costs (e.g., lower returns on reserves compared to returns on foreign investments), they are essential for maintaining economic stability and investor confidence.
    • Optimal Level of Reserves: India aims to maintain adequate reserves without excessive accumulation. This involves balancing the need for emergency funds against the costs associated with holding those reserves.

    What are the Steps taken by the Government? 

    • Make in India Initiative: Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to boost domestic manufacturing by encouraging both foreign and domestic companies to manufacture their products in India.
      • It focuses on sectors such as electronics, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals to increase production capabilities, reduce dependency on imports, and enhance export competitiveness.
    • Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Introduced in 2020, the PLI scheme provides financial incentives to manufacturers across various sectors, including electronics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.
      • This program is designed to attract investments, promote local manufacturing, and increase exports by enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian products.

    What strategies can mitigate the effects of the trade deficit? (Way forward)

    • Boosting Domestic Demand: Encouraging greater domestic consumption can help increase manufacturing output. Rising domestic demand can lead to higher production levels without necessarily increasing imports.
    • Enhancing Export Competitiveness: Focusing on sectors where India has a comparative advantage, such as pharmaceuticals and automobiles, can help increase export volumes and reduce the trade deficit.
    • Diversifying Import Sources: Reducing reliance on specific countries for imports (e.g., crude oil) by diversifying sources can help stabilize import costs and mitigate fluctuations in global prices.
    • Investing in Manufacturing Capabilities: Strengthening domestic manufacturing through policies supporting local industries can reduce import dependency and enhance export capacity.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Craze for gold in India has led to a surge in the import of gold in recent years and put pressure on the balance of payments and the external value of the rupee. In view of this, examine the merits of the Gold Monetization scheme. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Should packaged food content be labelled?

    Why in the News?

    A report by the Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNi), a global non-profit, reveals that food and beverage companies generally sell less healthy products in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) than in high-income countries (HICs).

    What does the report published by the Access to Nutrition Initiative state? 

    • Lower Health Ratings in LMICs: The report assessed 52,414 products from 30 of the world’s largest food and beverage manufacturers. It found that products sold in LMICs had an average Health Star Rating (HSR) of 1.8, whereas those in HICs averaged 2.3. This indicates that the portfolios of these companies are less healthy in poorer markets.
    • Healthier Product Sales: Only 30% of the assessed companies have a strategy to price their healthier products affordably for lower-income consumers. This lack of accessibility contributes to dietary issues in these regions.
    • Micronutrient Data Availability: The report highlighted that micronutrient data were available for a smaller proportion of products in LMICs compared to HICs, complicating efforts to address nutritional deficiencies.
    • Call for Action: The ATNi challenges companies to derive at least 50% of their sales from healthier products by 2030, a target that only a small fraction currently meets.

    How does a Health Star rating system work? 

      • The Health Star Rating (HSR) system is a front-of-pack labeling initiative that rates food products on a scale from 0.5 to 5 stars based on their nutritional profile.
    • The rating is calculated by assessing:
      • Risk Nutrients: Total energy, saturated fat, sugars, and sodium.
      • Positive Nutrients: Protein, fiber, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes.
    • A score above 3.5 stars is considered healthier, while lower scores indicate less healthy options. This system allows consumers to easily compare similar products and make informed dietary choices.

    Why have non-communicable diseases become so common in India? 

    Non-communicable diseases have become increasingly prevalent in India due to several factors:

    • Dietary Shifts: There has been a significant increase in the consumption of highly processed foods that are high in sugars and fats, contributing to obesity and diabetes.
      • According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), unhealthy diets account for over 56% of the total disease burden in India.
    • Affordability Issues: More than 50% of Indians cannot afford a healthy diet, exacerbating nutritional deficiencies alongside rising obesity rates.
    • Lifestyle Changes: Reduced physical activity and urbanization have also played roles in this epidemic, leading to a dual burden of undernutrition and obesity.

    Can front-of-pack labelling help?

    Front-of-pack labeling could significantly influence consumer behavior and public health outcomes:

    • Effectiveness of Warning Labels: Studies from countries like Chile and Mexico show that mandatory warning labels on sugary beverages have led to decreased consumption. This suggests that clear labeling can help consumers make healthier choices.
    • Need for Mandatory Policies: Activists argue that voluntary measures taken by companies have been insufficient. They advocate for mandatory regulations on front-of-pack labeling to effectively communicate nutritional information related to high sugar, fat, and sodium content.

    Conclusion: The Access to Nutrition Initiative report emphasizes the urgent need for healthier food portfolios in LMICs (Low- and Middle-Income Countries), equitable pricing, and front-of-pack labeling to combat non-communicable diseases. These steps align with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), promoting healthier lives globally.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Is Delhi’s AQI 500 or 1500?

    Why in the News?

    The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an average AQI of 494 (Severe plus category) for Delhi where the different scales and methods explain the gap.

    The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an average AQI of 494 (Severe plus category) for Delhi where the different scales and methods explain the gap.

    A study by the Centre for Science and Environment reveals that:

    • Vehicular emissions are the largest contributor to Delhi’s air pollution, accounting for 51.5% of the city’s pollution;
    • Neighbouring districts add 34.97 %,
    • Farm fires contribute 8.19%, and
    • Dust particles make up 3.7 % of the total air pollution in the city.

    What is the AQI Crisis in North India and What is the role of Climatic Conditions?

    • Northern India, particularly Delhi, is currently facing a severe air quality crisis, characterized by record-breaking Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. The AQI in many areas has exceeded 500, categorizing it as “severe-plus,” which poses significant health risks and limits visibility due to thick smog.
      • This year, despite a relatively pollution-free October and early November, the second week of November brought a sudden spike in toxic particulate matter, primarily PM2.5.
    • Weather Patterns: Inversions and stagnant air conditions have contributed to the accumulation of pollutants. The presence of a thick pollution blanket at around 500 meters above ground level has been linked to adverse local impacts when combined with regional emissions from stubble burning and other sources.
    • External Pollution Sources: The increase in pollution levels due to significant contributions from external sources, including emissions from nearby states like Punjab and Haryana.  

    What are the challenges in Monitoring AQI?

    • Inconsistent Data Reporting: There is confusion regarding AQI readings, with some private agencies reporting values exceeding 1,000 while official figures cap at 500. This discrepancy arises from differences in how pollutant concentrations are converted to AQI values based on less stringent national guidelines compared to WHO standards.
    • Dependence on External Data: India’s reliance on satellite data from NASA for monitoring fires and pollution limits its ability to independently assess air quality. There is a need for more localized monitoring using Indian satellites that can provide continuous coverage.
    • Lack of Comprehensive Frameworks: Current monitoring systems do not adequately account for regional cooperation or comprehensive frameworks that address transboundary pollution issues effectively. This lack of coordination complicates efforts to manage air quality across state lines.

    Why does India need a sustainable and health-centric framework? 

    • Long-Term Strategies: Efforts must go beyond immediate fixes and focus on sustainable practices that consider the interconnectedness of air quality management and climate change adaptation. This includes integrating scientific research into policy-making and resource allocation.
    • Public Health Prioritization: A health-centric approach should prioritize the well-being of citizens by implementing measures that reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
    • Multidisciplinary Solutions: Addressing air quality issues necessitates collaboration across various sectors, including transportation, urban planning, and public health. This multidisciplinary approach can foster innovative solutions tailored to local contexts while addressing broader climatic challenges.

    Conclusion: Northern India’s AQI crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable, health-centric air quality management. The government should address the pollution through multidisciplinary solutions aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), ensuring healthier lives and climate-resilient communities for future generations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve revised standards? (UPSC IAS/2021)