Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Constitutional provisions
Mains level: Minimum age requirements for parliamentary candidacy analysis
What’s the news?
- The 132nd Report on Election Process and Reform, presented to the Rajya Sabha in August 2023, recommends aligning the minimum age for candidacy with the voting age of 18.
Central idea
- A Parliamentary Committee has proposed reducing the age restriction on MPs and MLAs to 18 years. Though the EC has opposed the proposal, Constituent Assembly debates show several leaders back then favored lower age criteria for our lawmakers. Calling the current criteria outdated, the committee argued that legislative bodies could benefit from a wider range of perspectives.
Background
- On May 18, 1949, during the heated deliberations of India’s Constituent Assembly, responsible for drafting the nation’s Constitution, a pivotal debate emerged.
- The focus was the insertion of an Article outlining criteria for prospective parliamentarians’ minimum age.
- The motion proposed setting 25 years as the entry age for the Lok Sabha and 35 years for the Rajya Sabha.
- Amidst this discourse, Durgabai Deshmukh, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle and an advocate for women’s emancipation, proposed an amendment.
- Her amendment aimed to lower the minimum age for Rajya Sabha candidacy from 35 to 30, reflecting changing times and evolving youth engagement in civic matters.
- The amendment’s adoption led to the incorporation of Article 84 and Article 173 in the Constitution, mandating 25 and 30 years as the minimum age for entry into the lower and upper houses, respectively, at both the central and state levels.
A Global Perspective on Youth Participation
- The United Nations Human Rights Council’s 2018 report highlights challenges faced by youth in accessing their rights.
- Less than 2% of parliamentarians worldwide are under 30, indicating a lack of youth representation.
- Countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada have embraced young candidates with innovative ideas and fresh perspectives.
- European nations such as Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, and Ireland have set lower minimum age requirements for candidates.
- Fridays for the Future, led by Greta Thunberg, exemplifies the influence of youth-led activism on global issues.
Youth and Political Participation in India
- Student Politics and University Campuses:
- University campuses, traditionally seen as breeding grounds for free debate and critical thinking, have played a pivotal role in nurturing young leaders.
- The Lyngdoh Committee’s recommendations in 2012, which introduced upper age limits for student union elections, marked a transformative shift.
- Recent statistics reveal that student union office-bearers at top Indian universities have an average age of 22.5 years, reflecting more youthful leadership.
- Panchayat-Level Representation:
- At the grassroots level, efforts to infuse youth representation have resulted in significant positive changes.
- In various states, a growing number of individuals aged 21 and above have found representation in roles such as village pradhan and block pramukh.
- This demonstrates a trend towards acknowledging the capabilities and perspectives of younger individuals in local governance.
- Parliamentary Representation:
- However, this progressive trend is not consistently reflected at the national parliamentary level.
- An analysis of India’s parliamentary history shows a decline in the percentage of MPs aged 25–40 from 26% in the first Lok Sabha to 12% in the current 17th Lok Sabha.
- Despite India’s young country status, with 65% of the population below 35 years old, the average age of MPs remains relatively high.
The Impact of Youth Representation: Amplifying Progressive Agendas
- Visibility of Youth-Centric Issues:
- Diverse representation in parliament ensures increased visibility of issues pertinent to youth.
- The long-standing demand for women’s reservation quotas highlights the effectiveness of targeted representation in addressing gender-specific concerns.
- Similarly, youth representatives can champion matters like technology, unemployment, and education, shaping policies that resonate with younger generations.
- Contemporary Relevance and Innovation:
- Young parliamentarians are poised to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to complex problems.
- Issues like climate change, technology, and socio-economic disparities require dynamic approaches that youth are well-equipped to provide.
- Their engagement can foster debates that reflect the current aspirations and challenges of the population.
- Empowerment of Underrepresented Groups:
- Youth representation also holds the promise of empowering marginalized and minority groups.
- The inclusivity brought about by youth engagement ensures that the concerns of various communities are adequately addressed.
- This can contribute to a more equitable and diverse governance approach.
- Challenging Traditional Notions:
- The presence of young parliamentarians challenges traditional notions that associate political competence solely with age.
- Global examples of successful young leaders breaking barriers underscores the capacity of youth to drive change.
- Age should not be a barrier to representation when youth demonstrate awareness, dedication, and commitment to their responsibilities.
Challenges Hindering Youth Inclusion
- Experience and Maturity Concerns:
- Critics contend that younger candidates may lack the life experience and maturity required to make informed decisions on complex issues.
- The belief that political competence is directly proportional to age is deeply ingrained, presenting a challenge to reform efforts.
- Entrenched Norms and Resistance:
- Prevailing norms link effective leadership with advanced age, creating resistance to embracing younger candidates.
- Societal skepticism toward entrusting significant responsibilities to youth can impede the acceptance of policy changes.
- Divergence from International Trends:
- The Election Commission’s cautious stance on lowering the minimum candidacy age contrasts with global trends.
- Several democracies have successfully integrated younger leaders, tapping into their fresh perspectives and innovative thinking.
- Balancing Youthful Vigor and Expertise:
- Striking a balance between the energy of youth and the wisdom gained from experience remains a challenge.
- Effective leadership requires not only innovative ideas but also a nuanced understanding of the intricacies of governance.
- Perception of Representation Bias:
- Concerns exist that youth-centric representation might overshadow the needs of other demographic groups.
- Addressing this perception and ensuring comprehensive policy formulation are essential for garnering broad support.
- Cultural and Mindset shifts:
- Overcoming deep-rooted beliefs that equate age with political competence demands a cultural shift.
- Effective awareness campaigns can challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive environment for younger leaders.
Addressing the Age Discrepancy
- The 132nd Report on Election Process and Reform, presented to the Rajya Sabha in August 2023, recommends aligning the minimum age for candidacy with the voting age of 18.
- The report highlights global practices and underscores the significance of young parliamentarians voicing contemporary issues.
Way forward
- Policy Alignment and Adaptation: Reassess existing policies to align the minimum candidacy age with the voting age, promoting consistency and inclusivity.
- Youth-Centric Educational Initiatives: Establish comprehensive political education programs and leadership training to equip young aspirants with essential governance skills.
- Cross-Generational Mentorship: Facilitate intergenerational dialogue to combine experience with innovation, allowing for a holistic approach to decision-making.
- Incentivized Youth Participation: Encourage political parties to integrate young candidates into their election strategies through incentives and tangible support.
- Collaborative Advocacy Efforts: Engage stakeholders in advocacy campaigns, leveraging global examples to advocate for reducing the minimum candidacy age.
Conclusion
- The need for a more inclusive and representative democracy demands a reevaluation of the minimum age requirements for parliamentary candidacy. As the world embraces youthful voices, India’s evolving landscape should not lag behind. A political consensus can pave the way for a more dynamic, inclusive, and progressive parliamentary system, with the potential to reshape the nation’s future.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Inflation trends
Mains level: Inflation and its impact
Central idea
- In recent weeks, a notable surge in vegetable prices has acted as a harbinger of a potential increase in overall inflation, as gauged by the consumer price index. This inflationary trend, if sustained, could breach the upper threshold of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) targeted inflation framework.
Inflation Trend Analysis
- Initial Indications of Upward Movement: The recent surge in vegetable prices over the past few weeks served as an early signal of an impending inflationary trend. These signs prompted expectations of an escalation in overall inflation, as gauged by the consumer price index, during the months of July and August.
- Confirmed by Official Data Release: The National Statistical Office’s data release on Monday solidified these apprehensions. Headline retail inflation surged to a 15-month high of 7.44 per cent in July, marking a substantial increase from the 4.87 per cent recorded in June.
- Food Prices as the Main Catalyst: Dissecting the data, it becomes evident that the major driving force behind this surge has been the elevated food prices. The consumer food price index soared to 11.51 per cent in July, significantly up from the 4.55 per cent reported the previous month.
- Core Inflation and Goods/Services Inflation Trends:
- Core Inflation: Excluding the volatile food and fuel components, core inflation has shown a moderation trend, as noted by ICRA.
- Goods and Services Inflation: Both goods (excluding food) and services inflation have demonstrated a softening trend, indicating a certain degree of stability.
Food Categories and Their Impact
- Vegetables: This category experienced a staggering price rise of 37.3 per cent, serving as a primary contributor to the overall increase.
- Spices: Prices of spices surged by 21.6 per cent, further accentuating the inflationary pressure within the food segment.
- Pulses and Products: With an inflation rate of 13.2 per cent, pulses and related products added to the upward trend in food prices.
- Cereals and Products: A rise of 13 per cent in this category also contributed to the overall surge in food inflation.
Central Bank’s Perspective
- Early Warnings Heeded: Recognizing the potential implications for overall inflation, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) took swift action during its recent monetary policy committee meeting.
- Proactive Forecast Revision: In a preemptive move, the RBI adjusted its inflation projection for the second quarter upwards. The initial estimate of 5.2 per cent was revised to 6.2 per cent, reflecting the central bank’s readiness to address the imminent inflationary pressure.
- Confirmation through Data: The RBI’s perspective received validation with the release of official data by the National Statistical Office. The subsequent surge in headline retail inflation to a 15-month high of 7.44 per cent in July, from the previous month’s 4.87 per cent, bolstered the central bank’s concerns.
- Food as a Key Driver: The central bank’s analysis correctly identified that the main driver behind this inflationary surge was the escalating food prices. The consumer food price index’s significant rise to 11.51 per cent in July, compared to 4.55 per cent in the previous month, reinforced the central bank’s focus on this critical aspect.
Impact of the inflation trends
- Consumer Affordability: The surge in vegetable prices contributes to overall inflation, impacting consumers’ ability to afford essential goods. As prices rise, individuals might need to allocate more of their budget to food, potentially reducing spending on other items.
- Budgetary Strain: Higher food prices, particularly vegetables, strain household budgets, affecting families’ purchasing power. This burden is often more pronounced for lower-income households, potentially leading to trade-offs in spending and impacting overall consumption patterns.
- Cost-Push Inflation: The rise in food prices, driven by vegetables and other factors, can lead to cost-push inflation. This occurs when higher production costs are passed on to consumers, causing a general increase in the price level across various sectors.
- Wage Pressure: Elevated inflation can lead to demands for higher wages by workers to maintain their real income levels. Businesses might face challenges managing increased labor costs, potentially affecting profitability.
- Monetary Policy Adjustment: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) might need to consider adjusting its monetary policy to address the rising inflation. This could involve raising interest rates to control demand and curb price increases, potentially impacting borrowing costs and investments.
Conclusion
- Despite optimism about a forthcoming correction in vegetable prices, the economy remains vulnerable to external shocks such as crude oil price fluctuations. The committee’s continued vigilance and strategic policy responses will be pivotal in managing inflationary pressures and maintaining economic stability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Three key bills
Mains level: Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, IPC, CrPC, Macaulay's role in shaping India's legal landscape, Rationale behind the new bills
What’s the news?
- On the final day of the Monsoon Session, Home Minister Amit Shah unleashed a surprising and profound transformation of India’s criminal justice system.
Central idea
- The introduction of three key Bills in the Lok Sabha signals a pivotal departure from the colonial-era approach to criminal laws. The intent to supplant the archaic Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860, the Evidence Act of 1872, and the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973 aims to usher in relevance, simplicity, and expedited justice.
Three Key Bills
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill:
- This bill aims to replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860.
- The IPC defines crimes, sets out their elements, and prescribes corresponding penalties.
- The proposed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill seeks to revamp the existing penal code to ensure it aligns with contemporary values and caters to the needs of modern society.
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill:
- This bill is presented alongside the others and intends to replace the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973.
- The CrPC outlines procedures related to the administration of criminal justice, including aspects like investigation, arrest, bail, trial, and sentencing.
- The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill’s primary objective is to streamline these procedures, enhance efficiency, and ensure the equitable treatment of all citizens under the law.
- Bharatiya Sakshya Bill:
- The third bill aims to replace the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.
- The Indian Evidence Act governs the rules of evidence in legal proceedings, including what can be presented as admissible evidence and how it should be evaluated.
- The proposed Bharatiya Sakshya Bill seeks to modernize and adapt the rules of evidence to current legal requirements, making the legal process more effective and transparent.
The need for codification
- Complex Legal Landscape: The intricate mix of legal sources—parliamentary charters, Acts, Regulations, customary laws, and religious laws—led to confusion, contradictions, and inconsistencies.
- Administrative Challenges: The need for effective governance under expanding British colonial control was hindered by fragmented legal systems, causing disorder and unequal justice.
- Clarity and Predictability: The absence of a unified legal framework caused uncertainty for citizens and administrators, lacking clear guidelines for legal matters.
- Efficiency in Governance: Codification streamlined administration, enabling efficient enforcement, and consistent application of laws.
- Enhancing the Rule of Law: Codified laws ensured fairness, transparency, and accessibility, upholding the rule of law more effectively.
- Eliminating Contradictions: A uniform code resolved inconsistencies and conflicts among different legal systems, ensuring equitable treatment.
Rationale behind the new bills
- Eliminating Colonial Influence: The current laws, such as the Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860, carry a British colonial stamp. The new bills aim to discard this colonial legacy and establish laws that are truly representative of the needs and aspirations of the Indian population.
- Relevance to Modern Society: The colonial-era laws were formulated in a different historical context and might not effectively address the complexities of contemporary Indian society. The new bills intend to update and adapt the legal framework to align with present-day realities.
- Enhancing Justice for Citizens: The colonial laws were primarily designed to protect British interests. The new bills seek to prioritize the interests of common Indian citizens, ensuring that the justice system serves their needs and rights.
- Simplification and Speedy Justice: The new bills aim to simplify legal procedures, making them more accessible and understandable. This simplification is expected to expedite legal processes, ensuring a quicker delivery of justice.
- Adapting to Technological Advancements: Rapid technological progress has introduced new dimensions to crime and evidence. The new bills are likely to address cybercrime, digital evidence, and other technological challenges in the modern context.
- Aligning with Contemporary Values: The bills aim to incorporate modern values, human rights principles, and global legal standards into the legal framework. This ensures that the laws are relevant, progressive, and in harmony with present-day societal values.
- Removing Outdated Provisions: Over time, some provisions of the colonial laws might have become obsolete or irrelevant. The new bills aim to remove or modify such provisions to ensure a more coherent and effective legal framework.
How did the rebellion of 1857 influence the fate of the IPC?
- Initial Delays and Resistance: Despite Macaulay’s efforts to draft the IPC, its enactment faced hurdles. The project encountered governmental inertia, resistance from European residents who opposed having the same legal status as indigenous populations, and a loss of momentum for reform.
- Governors-General’s Opposition: Governors-General like Auckland and Ellenborough opposed reforms, considering them unnecessary. This opposition reflected a reluctance to change the existing legal framework and resisted codifying the legal system.
- East India Company Rule: The governance of India was under the control of the East India Company rather than the British Crown. This administrative structure affected the decision-making process and the pace of legal reforms.
- Impact of the Rebellion of 1857: The Rebellion of 1857 (also known as the Indian Mutiny or the Sepoy Mutiny) was a widespread uprising against the East India Company’s rule. It challenged the authority of the Company and led to significant consequences.
- Change in Ruling Authority: The Rebellion marked the decline of the East India Company’s control. In 1858, the British Crown assumed direct control over India, ending the Company’s rule. This transition from Company rule to direct Crown rule was a significant historical shift.
- Crisis of Legitimacy: The Rebellion and its aftermath raised a crisis of legitimacy for colonial rule. The British claim to enlightened and just governance was seriously undermined by the harsh reprisals and brutal actions taken in response to the Rebellion.
- Impact on British Perception: The British political classes became aware of the damage caused to the legitimacy of British rule due to the repressive responses to the Rebellion. The principles of constitutionalism and the rule of law, which formed the basis of British governance claims, were called into question.
- Enactment of the IPC: In this context, the enactment of the IPC was seen as a means to address legitimacy concerns. The codification of laws was considered a step towards presenting a more just and orderly legal system, aiming to restore confidence in British rule’s claims of legality and fairness.
Macaulay’s complex role in shaping India’s legal landscape
- Macaulay’s Role in Charter Act Debates: During the deliberations of the 1833 Charter Act in the UK Parliament, Macaulay played a significant role in advocating for a uniform legal code for India.
- Advocating Uniformity and Certainty: Macaulay passionately argued that India needed a legal system characterized by uniformity where possible; diversity where necessary, and certainty in all cases. This approach would provide clarity and consistency in legal matters.
- Advantage of Absolute Governments: Macaulay believed that the ability to establish a comprehensive legal code was a distinct advantage of absolute governments over popular ones. This viewpoint underscored his belief in the efficacy of centralized legal reforms.
- Desire for a Role in India: While advocating for the uniform code, Macaulay subtly indicated his interest in securing a role as a law member in India. He recognized the potential financial benefits that such a position could bring.
- Financial Motivations: Macaulay’s interest in the law member role was driven by financial considerations. He anticipated a substantial salary and the prospect of accumulating wealth during his tenure in India, which would significantly improve his financial situation.
- Impactful Arrival in India: Macaulay’s arrival in India in 1834 marked the beginning of his active involvement in the legal and legislative affairs of the country. His subsequent contributions and initiatives left a lasting impact on India’s legal landscape.
Conclusion
- While Macaulay’s legacy carries both praise and censure, his codification journey serves as a foundation for the ongoing transformation. As the new Bills navigate legislative processes, India must remain committed to justice that transcends punitive measures and embodies equity, accessibility, and modern relevance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Innovations and collaboration between Swiss-Indian Partnership
Mains level: The Treaty of Friendship and Establishment between Switzerland and India, diverse achievements and future trajectory
What’s the news?
- On the 75th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, Switzerland and India commemorate a historic alliance that has fostered achievements in diverse sectors and look forward to deepening collaboration in areas like innovation, sustainable development, and healthcare.
Central idea
- In the annals of diplomatic history, the Treaty of Friendship and Establishment signed between Switzerland and India in 1948 stands as a testament to the enduring bond that has flourished for 75 years. As we commemorate this significant milestone, it is both opportune and prudent to reflect on the accomplishments achieved and envision the promising avenues that lie ahead.
What is The Treaty of Friendship and Establishment?
- The Treaty of Friendship and Establishment between Switzerland and India, signed in 1948, holds historical significance as one of India’s earliest diplomatic agreements after gaining independence.
- It marked the establishment of formal diplomatic ties between the two nations and set the tone for their subsequent bilateral relationship.
- This treaty emphasized mutual respect and cooperation, laying the groundwork for collaborations across various sectors such as vocational training, economic investments, technological exchange, and sustainable development.
Historical Significance and Diverse Achievements
- India’s Earliest Diplomatic Endeavors: The 1948 Treaty marked one of India’s earliest diplomatic endeavors and established a foundation of mutual respect. The ensuing decades witnessed fruitful cooperation in various sectors.
- Investments in Skill Development: Switzerland’s investment in vocational training institutes and rail wagon factories aided India’s workforce development.
- Milk Cooperatives: The establishment of milk farmer cooperatives in Kerala contributed to the dairy industry’s growth.
- Technological Synergy: India’s IT expertise supported global undertakings, including Y2K bug resolution.
- Climate-Friendly Innovation: Swiss-Indian collaboration led to Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3), a low-carbon cement alternative.
- Economic Partnership: Switzerland’s position as India’s 12th largest foreign investor fostered economic growth.
Future Trajectory in the Swiss-Indian Partnership
- Swiss-Indian Innovation Platform:
- An upcoming milestone, the Swiss-Indian Innovation Platform, is a testament to the commitment of both nations towards fostering innovation.
- By harnessing the strengths of India’s technological advancements and Switzerland’s innovation prowess, this platform aims to address pressing global challenges.
- Notably, the focus on combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) showcases the partnership’s practical relevance in tackling contemporary healthcare concerns.
- Sustainable Development:
- Both nations share a steadfast commitment to sustainable development.
- Building on their historical collaboration, they are likely to channel their efforts towards joint initiatives that promote eco-friendly practices, address climate change, and ensure responsible resource utilization.
- Healthcare Cooperation:
- The partnership’s trajectory is expected to be marked by deeper collaboration in healthcare.
- Drawing upon India’s technological prowess and Switzerland’s pharmaceutical innovations, joint ventures can pave the way for groundbreaking medical solutions, contributing to global health and well-being.
- Investment and Trade:
- Switzerland’s position as India’s 12th largest foreign investor underscores the depth of economic engagement.
- With over 330 Swiss companies actively operating in India, this partnership has facilitated investment, job creation, and technology transfer, contributing to India’s economic growth.\
- Free Trade Agreement:
- Anticipating the horizon, discussions surrounding a Free Trade Agreement between the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and India hold immense promise.
- This agreement not only deepens trade ties but also catalyzes increased investments and innovation in both regions, boosting economic vitality.
- Shared Values, Shared Growth:
- Built upon the foundation of shared values, the economic relationship is characterized by mutual respect and common interests.
- The economic collaborations not only boost trade figures but also underscore the friendship’s ability to drive prosperity for both nations.
Conclusion
- As we celebrate this milestone, the trajectory ahead appears promising, anchored in sustainable development, innovative solutions, and cooperative endeavors. It is a tryst with destiny that not only celebrates past achievements but anticipates an even brighter future for the intertwined destinies of Switzerland and India.
Also read:
India Switzerland Relations
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: youth well-being and sustainable development goals, challenges and holistic approach
What’s the news?
- A recent study, as depicted in the Youth Well-being Framework, underscores the multifaceted nature of well-being among the younger population. This framework serves as a guiding principle for policymakers and societies alike to holistically address the needs of adolescents.
Central idea
- Investing in youth is recognized as a cornerstone for human capital advancement. This investment goes beyond economic implications, integral to intrinsic well-being. Modern youth development covers various factors—physical health, nutrition, skills, employability. While physical and mental health are vital, well-being extends to personal experiences, life quality assessments.
What is youth well-being framework?
- The Youth Well-being Framework is a comprehensive and multidimensional approach to assessing and promoting the well-being of young individuals.
- It goes beyond traditional measures of well-being that focus solely on economic indicators and instead considers a wide range of factors that contribute to the overall quality of life and life satisfaction of young people.
- Key domains:
- Physical Health: This domain includes factors such as access to healthcare, nutrition, physical activity, and overall health status. It recognizes the importance of physical well-being as a foundational element for a good quality of life.
- Mental and Emotional Well-being: Mental health, emotional resilience, and psychological well-being are essential components of this domain. It addresses issues like stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that young individuals may face.
- Social Connections: This domain focuses on the importance of social relationships, friendships, family support, and a sense of belonging. Positive social connections are vital for emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction.
- Education and Skills Development: Access to quality education, skills training, and the ability to acquire knowledge and competencies for personal and professional growth are central to this domain.
- Economic Empowerment: This domain emphasizes the importance of economic opportunities, employment prospects, and financial stability for young people as they transition into adulthood.
- Human Rights and Empowerment: Recognizing the rights of young individuals and empowering them to participate in decision-making processes, engage in civic activities, and contribute to their communities are key aspects of this domain.
- Subjective Well-being: Beyond objective measures, this domain considers young people’s subjective experiences and perceptions of their own well-being and life satisfaction.
- Social and Cultural Context: The broader social and cultural environment in which young people live influences their well-being. This domain takes into account factors like cultural norms, social inequalities, and policy frameworks.
Linking youth well-being with Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Investing in the well-being of young individuals during the critical transition to adulthood establishes lifelong health habits.
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: Access to quality education equips youth with essential skills, enabling informed decisions about their lives and contributing to overall well-being.
- SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Empowering youth with meaningful employment opportunities enhances financial well-being, purpose, and self-esteem.
- SDG 10 – Reduced Inequality: Addressing structural inequalities supports the well-being of marginalized youth, promoting equality and inclusivity.
- SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Creating safe environments for youth by addressing issues like violence and discrimination contributes to overall well-being.
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Engaging youth in decision-making and policy processes amplifies the impact of sustainable development efforts.
What are the challenges?
- Health Disparities: Ensuring good health and well-being for all youth is hindered by disparities in access to healthcare and nutritious food, especially among marginalized groups.
- Education Inequities: Quality education remains elusive for many young individuals, particularly those in disadvantaged regions, due to inadequate infrastructure, resources, and skilled educators.
- Youth Employment: Providing decent work and economic opportunities for youth is a challenge, exacerbated by global economic fluctuations and the changing nature of work.
- Marginalization: Vulnerable groups, including ethnic minorities and those with disabilities, face discrimination, limiting their access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
- Mental Health: The prevalence of mental health issues among youth, exacerbated by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, poses a significant challenge to overall well-being.
- Inclusive Governance: Involving youth in decision-making processes is often hindered by institutional barriers and lack of platforms for meaningful participation.
- Inadequate Resources: Insufficient financial investment in youth-related programs, education, and healthcare limits progress in enhancing well-being.
- Data Gaps: Lack of comprehensive data on youth well-being and its intersections with SDGs hampers evidence-based policymaking
A human rights approach to youth well-being
- Empowerment: Empowering marginalized groups by advocating for their rights and providing opportunities for personal growth and societal progress.
- Inclusion: Mainstreaming youth perspectives into government departments, policymaking, and budget allocation for youth development.
- Equity: Addressing power imbalances and discrimination to ensure equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
- Progress Monitoring: Monitoring youth progress and well-being to ensure that policies and initiatives effectively cater to their needs.
- Youth Participation: Engaging youth in policymaking and community development projects, fostering their sense of purpose and contributing to positive change.
Way forward
- Empowering Youth Voices: Actively involve young individuals in decision-making processes, policy formulation, and community initiatives. Their unique perspectives and insights are essential for effective solutions.
- Creating Safe Spaces: Establish platforms where youth can express themselves without fear of discrimination. Safe spaces encourage open dialogue and the sharing of diverse viewpoints.
- Youth-Led Projects: Support and fund projects initiated by young people that address local challenges. These initiatives empower youth to drive positive change within their communities.
- Education for Empowerment: Design education programs that equip young individuals with critical thinking skills, empowering them to engage constructively in society and effect meaningful change.
- Diverse Representation: Ensure diverse representation of youth, including those from marginalized backgrounds and ethnic minorities, in decision-making bodies and leadership roles.
- Equal Access to Opportunities: Remove barriers that hinder marginalized youth from accessing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Promote equitable access to resources.
- Collaborative Networks: Build networks that connect youth with mentors, professionals, and organizations. Such networks provide guidance, exposure, and pathways for personal and professional growth.
- Data-Driven Strategies: Gather data on the challenges faced by different youth groups. Utilize this data to tailor policies and programs that address specific needs and enhance overall well-being
Conclusion
- Investing in youth well-being extends beyond economic growth, encompassing physical health, mental resilience, education, and empowerment. The alignment with SDGs, adoption of human rights principles, and inclusive policies are pivotal for fostering holistic youth development. Empowering youth to shape their future ensures a brighter and more prosperous society for all.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change
Mains level: Climate Change and Shifting Business Paradigms for Environmental Sustainability
What’s the news?
- The 2023 IPCC Report highlights that human-induced global warming of 1.1 degrees Celsius has led to unprecedented shifts in the Earth’s climate.
Central idea
- In recent decades, human activities have substantially contributed to the acceleration of climate change. The economic toll of climate change has been immense. The anticipated intensification of climate impacts underscores the urgent need for both mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Climate Change and Shifting Business Paradigms for Environmental Sustainability
- Climate Change Impact: Human activities have led to a significant increase in global warming, resulting in unprecedented climate changes. The 2023 IPCC Report highlights the Earth’s warming by 1.1 degrees Celsius due to human influence.
- Economic Consequences: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates substantial economic losses of around US$1.3 trillion annually during 2011–2020, constituting 0.2 percent of global GDP. These losses stem from climate change-related damages, affecting both the economy and the environment.
- Businesses and Sustainability: There’s a noticeable shift in business attitudes, moving away from pure profit-centric approaches to considering their social and environmental impacts. Many companies are now striving to balance economic, social, and environmental aspects—also known as the triple bottom line.
- ESG and CSR Frameworks: Enterprises are adopting Environmental, Social, and governance (ESG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) frameworks to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. This includes using renewable energy sources, improving stakeholder relationships, and engaging in environmentally responsible actions.
- IBM Survey on Business Leaders’ Views: The IBM survey revealed that 51 percent of top business leaders and CEOs recognize the importance of environmental sustainability. This suggests growing awareness and concern among influential business figures.
- Consumer Behavior: Consumers’ preferences are also changing. About 49 percent of consumers are willing to pay more for products labeled as sustainable or socially responsible. This indicates a shift in consumer behavior towards supporting eco-friendly products and companies.
How are companies responding?
- IKEA’s Environmental Priorities:
- IKEA, a global furniture leader, has embraced climate finance for sustainable practices. They reduced their climate footprint by 5 percent in 2022, from 27.2 to 25.8 million tonnes.
- IKEA’s transparency extends to disclosing outdoor air pollution across their supply chain. Their food section now offers 50 percent plant-based meals, aligning with reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
- NIKE’s Sustainable Business Approach:
- NIKE, a renowned sportswear brand, echoes this trend by incorporating sustainable practices.
- Their ESG Risk Rating of 19.6 reflects effective management of industry-specific ESG risks.
- India’s Regulatory Push:
- India’s Ministry of Corporate Affairs is propelling sustainability within the corporate sphere through the National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct.
- These guidelines emphasize resource-efficient, low-carbon technologies and accountability for environmental impact and stakeholder considerations.
- Ather Energy’s Holistic EV Strategy:
- Ather Energy, a Bengaluru-based EV startup, showcases a comprehensive strategy. Their approach involves building an entire charging infrastructure network and fostering a local, sustainable supply chain.
- This strategy encompasses high-quality product creation and reusing/recycling outdated items.
Sustainability Challenges Faced by Companies
- Climate change impacts supply chains, leading to transition risks and event-driven physical risks.
- Environmental factors like water shortages and changing demand affect business operations.
- Vendor credibility issues and logistical challenges disrupt supply chain stability.
- Social factors, including communal disturbances and employee strikes, introduce uncertainties.
- Ensuring profitability while investing in sustainable practices poses financial challenges.
Strategies to Overcome Sustainability Challenges
- Financing Green Transitions: To address the increased investments required, companies can allocate separate budgets for CSR and ESG activities, as evidenced by the IBM survey. Regulatory compliance would ensure dedicated budget allocations, fostering a commitment to sustainable practices over the long term.
- Justifying Price Increases: As per the IBM survey, consumers are increasingly willing to pay more for sustainable products, even in developing countries. By emphasizing ethical marketing practices and leveraging social media, businesses can tap into this growing consumer trend.
- Overcoming Technological Limitations: While traditional methods like paper backups remain useful, the evolution of technology can help in avoiding fraud and malpractice, as mentioned in the article. Embracing technology, with proper safeguards in place is essential for comprehensive sustainability.
- Addressing Greenwashing Concerns: Organizations can counter doubts about the credibility of their sustainable practices by prioritizing brand awareness and emotional marketing. Through multi-stakeholder involvement and coordinated efforts, companies can establish themselves as genuine advocates of sustainability.
Conclusion
- Promoting sustainable business practices in the context of traditional profit-oriented models requires a multi-stakeholder approach, regulatory compliance, and governmental support. As the world moves toward universal business sustainability, businesses need to prioritize environmentally conscious practices, with stringent penalties for non-compliance and incentives for positive contributions to society and the environment.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's digital transformation, schemes and policies
Mains level: India's digital transformation, ban on smartphones in Indian schools analysis
What’s the news?
- UNESCO’s call for a ban on smartphones in Indian schools sparks nationwide debate on their impact, with educators and experts divided over whether to implement a blanket ban or nuanced regulations.
Central idea
- With 1.2 billion mobile and 600 million smartphone users, India’s digital transformation is reshaping society. Predicted to reach over a billion by 2026, smartphone use in education is being debated after UNESCO’s call for a school ban, raising questions about classroom dynamics and student well-being.
UNESCO’s Stance on Smartphone Ban
- With 1.2 billion mobile phone users and 600 million smartphone users in India, the country is experiencing a technology boom.
- UNESCO recommends a global ban on smartphones in schools due to concerns about disruptions, cyberbullying, and compromised learning.
- Research suggests that the mere presence of mobile devices can distract students and hinder their academic engagement.
- The London School of Economics’ research highlights the positive impact of not allowing mobile phones in schools on academic performance.
Delhi’s Directorate of Education’s Approach
- The Directorate of Education, Private School Branch, Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, issued an advisory on restricting mobile phone use in schools.
- The advisory emphasizes the importance of reaching a consensus among stakeholders like students, parents, teachers, and school heads regarding mobile phone use in educational environments.
- Delhi’s response demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining a conducive learning atmosphere and prioritizing student well-being.
- The Directorate’s concern centers around smartphone distractions such as notifications, games, and social media engagement during class hours.
- The Delhi Government’s response showcases a commitment to addressing the potential negative impact of smartphone usage on education.
Impact of Mobile Phones on Students
- Positive Impacts:
- Access to Information: Smartphones offer students instant access to a vast pool of information and educational resources. Over 80% of students in developed countries use smartphones to access educational content.
- Digital Literacy: Smartphone use fosters digital literacy, a crucial skill in today’s technology-driven world. The NEP (National Education Policy) in India emphasizes digital education and the use of technology.
- Interactive Learning: Mobile apps and online platforms enhance interactive learning experiences. The use of QR codes in the state curriculum and additional resources showcases the integration of technology for learning.
- Flexibility and Convenience: Smartphones enable learning beyond traditional classroom hours and locations. In countries like Finland, students are allowed to bring phones to class around age 12, promoting flexible learning.
- Educational Apps: Educational apps cater to diverse learning styles and subjects. Language learning apps, mathematics tutorials, and science simulations provide engaging learning opportunities.
- Negative Impacts:
- Distractions and Reduced Focus: Mere proximity to smartphones can lead to distraction and reduced focus during classes. Research by the London School of Economics suggests that mobile phones can deter academic performance.
- Addiction and Sleep Deprivation: Excessive smartphone usage contributes to addiction and sleep deprivation among students. Teenagers’ addiction to smartphones has been linked to increased anxiety and behavioral problems.
- Cyberbullying and Mental Health: Smartphone-enabled access to social media platforms exposes students to cyberbullying and mental health issues. Students’ exposure to unrealistic standards on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and depression.
- Decline in Face-to-Face Interaction: Increased smartphone use can lead to reduced face-to-face interactions among students. UNESCO’s recommendation to ban smartphones in schools aims to promote more meaningful face-to-face interactions.
- Academic Decline due to Distracted Learning: Checking notifications, playing games, and engaging in social media during class hours negatively impact academic performance. Studies show a correlation between excessive smartphone use and lower grades.
Perspectives in Favor of a Smartphone Ban in Schools
- Enhanced Academic Focus: Banning smartphones can lead to improved academic focus among students. Research indicates that the presence of mobile devices distracts students and hampers their learning engagement.
- Mitigation of Cyberbullying and Mental Health Concerns: A smartphone ban would protect students from cyberbullying and associated mental health issues. Students exposed to social media platforms can experience emotional distress due to online interactions.
- Encouragement of Face-to-Face Interaction: Banning smartphones would encourage more meaningful face-to-face interactions, fostering interpersonal skills. UNESCO’s recommendation emphasizes maintaining academic integrity through human interactions.
- Positive Impact on Academic Performance: Limiting smartphone use during school hours can lead to improved academic performance. Research from the London School of Economics suggests that mobile phone restrictions can positively influence student achievement.
- Development of Healthy Learning Habits: Implementing a smartphone ban promotes healthy learning habits by reducing distractions. Excessive smartphone use has been linked to addiction and sleep deprivation, which hinder effective learning.
Perspectives Against a Smartphone Ban in Schools
- Access to Information and Resources: Smartphones provide quick access to a wealth of educational information and resources. Educational apps and online resources cater to diverse learning styles and offer supplementary materials.
- Preparation for Real-World Technology Use: Allowing controlled smartphone use prepares students for a technology-driven future. National Education Policies and state curricula emphasize the importance of digital literacy and technology integration.
- Customized Learning and Engagement: Smartphone apps and interactive platforms offer personalized and engaging learning experiences. Many students in developed countries use smartphones to access tailored educational content.
- Parental Responsibility and Education: Educating students about responsible smartphone use is the responsibility of parents. Some developed countries allow controlled smartphone use, teaching students about balanced usage.
- Bridge the Gap for Economically Disadvantaged Students: Smartphones bridge technology gaps for economically disadvantaged students, providing access to digital resources. An outright ban could worsen disparities among students based on their socioeconomic backgrounds.
Way Forward
- Holistic Stakeholder Engagement: Engage all stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers, and school administrators, in open discussions and decision-making processes regarding smartphone usage in schools.
- Incorporate Age-Based Guidelines: Develop age-specific guidelines for smartphone use in classrooms, taking into account developmental stages and potential distractions.
- Digital Literacy Curriculum: Integrate digital literacy education within the curriculum to educate students about responsible smartphone usage, privacy, and online etiquette.
- Educate Educators: Provide teachers with training on managing smartphone use effectively in classrooms and incorporating them as tools for learning.
- Parental Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns to educate parents about the implications of excessive smartphone use, emphasizing responsible parenting in the digital age.
- Digital Divide Solutions: Consider alternative solutions, like providing laptops, tablets, or internet facilities alongside smartphones, to bridge the digital divide effectively.
- Research on New Learning Paradigms: Invest in research to explore innovative approaches that harness the benefits of smartphones while mitigating potential distractions and drawbacks.
Conclusion
- As India strides toward an increasingly digital future, the education system faces the challenge of embracing innovation while mitigating distractions. Balancing student welfare, academic integrity, and equitable access will be vital in shaping policies that harness technology’s potential while preserving the sanctity of the classroom.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tb eradication goal and initiatives
Mains level: India's TB burden, initiatives, challenges and way forward
What’s the news?
- A recent study published in the medical journal Lancet reveals a significant link between nutrition and tuberculosis (TB) survival.
Central idea
- Undernutrition has, for a long time, been recognized as the leading risk factor for tuberculosis. In India, modeling studies have suggested that addressing undernutrition could reduce cases by over 70 percent in vulnerable states. A study in the Lancet shows that a good diet not only reduces the incidence of the disease among vulnerable people living with infected people, but it also reduces mortality in TB patients.
A Jharkhand Case Study
- A study observed a striking 60% reduction in mortality risk among TB patients who gained weight early in the disease.
- Early weight gain is directly linked to improved survival rates.
- The data underscores the immediate positive impact of proper nutrition on TB outcomes.
- Early weight gain correlates with lower mortality rates, highlighting the significance of a well-balanced diet.
- The study’s results carry crucial implications for policymakers and healthcare practitioners.
- A study addresses a vital knowledge gap by emphasizing the direct influence of nutrition on TB patients.
Impact of TB on Nutrition
- Diminished Appetite and Caloric Intake:
- 75% of TB patients experience significant appetite reduction during treatment.
- Reduced food intake leads to an inadequate caloric supply, worsening nutritional deficiencies for those already combating TB.
- Fever-Driven Caloric Expenditure:
- Fever amplifies caloric expenditure by 10–15% in TB patients.
- Increased calorie loss due to fever exacerbates the nutritional imbalance in individuals with TB.
- Wasting and Weight-for-Height Ratio:
- Over 40% of severe TB cases result in wasting, causing low weight-for-height ratios.
- Wasting intensifies nutritional strain, necessitating comprehensive strategies to address this challenge.
- Nutritional Recovery and Relapse Risk:
- Patients with poor diets during recovery face nearly 30% higher relapse rates.
- Inadequate nutritional recovery raises the risk of TB relapse, highlighting the importance of post-TB dietary care.
Government Initiatives to Eliminate Tuberculosis
- Nikshay Poshan Yojana: A government scheme providing financial aid to TB patients Aims to alleviate nutritional challenges during treatment and recovery.
- Policy Guidelines on Nutrition: The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) recommends a daily caloric intake of 2,800 calories for TB patients. It enhances patients’ nutritional status, which is vital for effective recovery.
- Challenges in Implementation: The 2020 study highlights healthcare providers’ difficulties in executing nutritional support. It Sheds light on potential hindrances to ensuring effective aid distribution.
- Nutritional Education Integration: The government introduces awareness campaigns on the importance of proper nutrition during and after TB treatment. Empowers patients to make informed dietary choices, aiding recovery and reducing relapse risks.
- Path to Elimination: The government‘s aim is to eliminate TB by 2025. The government seeks to reduce the disease burden, including its nutritional implications for the affected population.
Challenges in Addressing TB’s Nutritional Impact
- Awareness and Education Gap: Limited awareness among TB patients and healthcare providers regarding the importance of proper nutrition during treatment. This hinders the adoption of adequate dietary practices that can positively influence recovery.
- Nutritional Support Integration: Difficulty in seamlessly integrating nutritional support within the broader TB treatment framework. Patients may not receive the required dietary assistance, potentially hampering their overall health outcomes.
- Resource Constraints: Limited resources to provide consistent and effective nutritional aid to all TB patients Inadequate support might lead to unequal access to nutritional assistance, affecting recovery rates.
- Complexity of Implementation: The implementation of nutritional programs, such as Nikshay Poshan Yojana, might be hampered by administrative complexities. Delays in aid distribution could compromise timely nutritional support for TB patients.
- Socio-Economic Factors: Socio-economic disparities affect patients’ ability to access nutritious foods. Underprivileged individuals might face difficulties maintaining a balanced diet, negatively influencing their recovery.
- Fragmented Approach: Lack of coordination among different government departments and stakeholders involved in TB care and nutritional support Fragmented efforts could lead to inefficiencies and gaps in providing holistic care to TB patients.
- Cultural and Dietary Diversity: Designing nutritional interventions that accommodate the diverse dietary preferences and cultural practices of TB patients, One-size-fits-all approaches might not be effective across various cultural contexts.
Way forward
- Enhanced Nutritional Counseling: Strengthen healthcare providers’ training to offer comprehensive nutritional counseling to TB patients. Empowered patients make informed dietary choices, aiding recovery and reducing relapse risks.
- Holistic Nutritional Assessment: Integrate nutritional assessments as a standard procedure in TB patient care. Customized dietary plans can counteract malnutrition, promoting faster recovery.
- Collaboration with NGOs: Partner with non-governmental organizations to extend nutritional aid and support. A wider reach ensures that nutritional assistance reaches vulnerable populations effectively.
- Strengthening Nikshay Poshan Yojana: Evaluate and refine the scheme based on challenges highlighted in the 2020 study. An optimized scheme ensures the efficient distribution of financial support for nutritional needs.
- Leveraging Digital Platforms: Utilize technology for nutritional awareness campaigns and real-time monitoring of patients’ dietary adherence. Technology enhances outreach and aids in tracking patients’ progress.
Conclusion
- For India, a nation grappling with a high TB burden, the Lancet study emphasizes the urgency of integrating robust nutritional strategies into TB elimination programs. By addressing implementation challenges and promoting patient awareness, India can navigate closer to its ambitious TB eradication goal by 2025.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Small modular reactors
Mains level: India's energy transition, Small modular reactors, advantages, challenges and way ahead
What’s the news?
- The rise of coal consumption in Europe, despite increased solar and wind power, underscores the need for reliable, low-carbon electricity sources.
Central idea
- The global pursuit of decarbonization aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims to provide affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. With fossil fuels still accounting for 82% of the world’s energy supply, decarbonizing the power sector is imperative. SMRs, a form of nuclear reactor, hold promise for India’s energy landscape by offering a solution to this challenge.
What are Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)?
- Small Modular Reactors are a type of nuclear reactor design characterized by their smaller size, simplified construction, and modular nature.
- Unlike traditional large nuclear power plants, which have a single reactor with a high-power output, SMRs are designed to have a smaller power capacity, typically ranging from a few megawatts (MW) to around 300 MW.
- Their compact size and modular design allow for easier manufacturing, transport, and deployment.
What are the challenges of decarbonisation?
- Insufficient Solar and Wind Energy: Policymakers acknowledge that relying solely on solar and wind energy is inadequate for ensuring affordable energy access globally.
- Critical Minerals Demand Surge: The International Energy Agency predicts a potential 3.5-fold increase in demand for vital minerals (lithium, nickel, cobalt, rare earth elements) needed for clean-energy technologies by 2030.
- Capital Intensive Development: Significant capital investments are required to establish new mines and processing facilities to meet the surging demand for critical minerals.
- Environmental and Social Impacts: The rapid establishment of new mines and plants in regions like China, Indonesia, Africa, and South America carries potential environmental and social consequences.
- Geopolitical and Resource Control Risks: The dominance of a few nations in mineral production and processing (50-100% global capacity) introduces geopolitical vulnerabilities and control risks.
Issues with Nuclear Power
- Time and Cost Overruns: Conventional nuclear power plants often experience delays and cost overruns during construction.
- Resource Dependency: Nuclear power plants’ reliance on uranium creates concerns about resource dependency and supply chain vulnerabilities.
- Public Perception: Despite contributing 10% of global electricity and avoiding 180 billion cubic meters of natural gas demand and 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, nuclear power faces public concerns related to accidents, waste disposal, and environmental impact.
- Waste Management: Radioactive waste generated by nuclear power requires safe and effective long-term management.
- Safety Risks: While nuclear power plants implement safety measures, events like Chernobyl and Fukushima underscore the potential for catastrophic accidents.
- Environmental Impact: The nuclear power lifecycle, including uranium mining and waste storage, poses various environmental impacts.
- Decommissioning Challenges: Properly decommissioning nuclear power plants presents technical and financial complexities.
Advantages of SMRs
- Enhanced Safety and Simplified Design:
- SMRs have a smaller core damage frequency and source term compared to conventional NPPs.
- Incorporate enhanced seismic isolation and passive safety features.
- Design simplicity reduces the potential for uncontrolled radioactive material release.
- Lower Environmental Impact:
- Due to their simplified design and improved safety features, SMRs have a reduced environmental impact.
- Lower risk of radioactive material release.
- Flexibility and Community Engagement:
- SMRs can be safely installed in brownfield sites, minimizing the need for land acquisition and community displacement.
- SMR projects foster better understanding and acceptance of nuclear power in local communities.
- Energy Security and Fuel Efficiency:
- SMRs contribute to energy security by diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Many land-based SMRs use low-enriched uranium, sourced from countries with uranium mines and enrichment facilities.
- Cost-Effectiveness and Long Operational Lifespan:
- The Projected levelized cost of electricity from SMRs is between $60-90 per MWh.
- Costs are expected to decrease as deployment and manufacturing efficiency improve.
- SMRs are designed for over 40 years of operation, providing stable, long-term, low-carbon electricity.
- Coal-to-Nuclear Transition:
- Deploying SMRs aids in transitioning from coal-based power generation to nuclear energy.
- Facilitates progress toward net-zero emissions
Integration of SMRs with the National Grid
- Energy Generation Enhancement:
- India’s Central Electricity Authority (CEA) projects a need to increase coal-based thermal power plants (TPPs) capacity from 212,000 MW to 259,000 MW by 2032.
- The Generation capacity of Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) sources is projected to grow from 130,000 MW to 486,000 MW.
- Energy Storage Requirement:
- Integration of power from VRE sources with the national grid requires additional energy storage: Battery storage: 47,000 MW/236 GWh and Hydroelectric facilities: 27,000 MW.
- Projected Energy Contribution by 2031-2032:
- TPPs are expected to provide more than 50% of India’s total electricity generation.
- VRE sources are projected to contribute around 35%.
- NPPs, including SMRs, are estimated to contribute 4.4%.
Way Forward
- Global Regulatory Alignment:
- Facilitate collaboration among countries adopting nuclear energy.
- Harmonize regulatory requirements under the guidance of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to expedite approvals for standardized Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
- Energy Mix Optimization:
- Balancing coal-based thermal power plants (TPPs), Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) sources, and nuclear power, including SMRs.
- Prioritize capacity enhancement of TPPs and VRE sources to meet rising energy demands.
- Legal and Regulatory Adaptation:
- Amend the Atomic Energy Act to enable private sector involvement in SMRs.
- Maintain government control over nuclear fuel, waste, and security.
- Regulatory Empowerment:
- Enact a law to establish an independent regulatory board overseeing all nuclear power generation stages.
- Ensure compliance with safety, security, and safeguards measures.
- Secure SMR Operation: Retain government control over SMR security while facilitating private sector operation under appropriate supervision.
Conclusion
- Small modular reactors represent a promising avenue for India’s energy transition, offering enhanced safety, scalability, and alignment with decarbonization goals. Addressing regulatory, legal, and investment challenges can catalyze India’s shift towards a sustainable and secure energy future.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Emerging seed technology and applications
Mains level: Seed Technology for Sustainable Growth, challenges and opportunities
What’s the news?
- Agriculture and allied sectors are central to the Indian economy. Keeping this and a sustainable future in mind, the Indian government, quite rightly, is promoting technology-enabled sustainable farming, including natural, regenerative, and organic systems, during its G20 presidency.
Central idea
- Despite achieving food security through the production of 330 MT of food grains, challenges persist in meeting the demand for coarse cereals, pulses, oil seeds, and vegetables. These shortcomings contribute to a large undernourished population, including a substantial child wasting rate of 19.3%.
The Rise of the Indian Seed Industry
- Strong Foundation (1960s): The National Seeds Corporation was established, setting the groundwork for the industry’s growth.
- Policy Impetus (Late 1980s): Proactive policies and regulatory support boosted the industry’s development.
- Legislative Landmark (2001): The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Act was enacted, bolstering intellectual property rights and innovation.
- Technological Transition (2002): The introduction of BT cotton hybrids marked a shift toward technology-driven approaches for better productivity and sustainability.
- Current Market Size: The Indian seed market is estimated at $4.0 to $6.0 billion, with untapped potential for global prominence.
- Millet Leadership: India’s global leadership in millet production positions it to capture the international seed market.
- Public-Private Collaboration: Collaboration between ICAR research institutions and private companies enhances the development of hybrid varieties.
Major determinants of profitability in agriculture
- Seed Quality and Varieties: High-quality seeds and improved crop varieties significantly impact profitability. Improved seeds can contribute to a yield advantage of up to 15-20% beyond the genetic potential under different cultivation conditions.
- Input Costs: The costs of inputs like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation influence profitability. The cost of seed typically constitutes around 3 to 6% of the total cost of production, but it can provide up to a 15-20% yield advantage.
- Land and Soil Management: Effective land preparation, soil health management, and crop rotation practices are critical for sustained profitability. Sustainable land practices help maintain productivity over the long term.
- Water Management: Proper irrigation methods and access to reliable water sources impact profitability. Effective water management can reduce waste and increase yields.
- Labor Efficiency: Efficient labor utilization, including timely planting, weeding, and harvesting, optimizes production processes and reduces labor costs.
- Technology Adoption: Modern agricultural technologies like precision farming and mechanization enhance efficiency and reduce resource waste. Applied seed technologies can ensure good performance even under unfavorable conditions.
- Market Access and Pricing: Access to markets and fair prices for agricultural products directly affect profitability. Public-private partnerships have improved Variety Replacement Rates (VRR) and Seed Replacement Rates (SRR) in field crops and vegetables.
Challenges Ahead for the Indian Seed Industry
- Climate Variability: Unpredictable weather patterns and shifting climate conditions challenge consistent seed production, impacting crop yields and resilience.
- Resource Scarcity: Diminishing natural resources like water and arable land strain the industry’s capacity to meet the escalating demand for quality seeds.
- Regulatory Framework: Navigating evolving and intricate regulations can hinder the timely release of new seed varieties, obstructing innovation.
- Market Access: Equitable access to quality seeds, particularly in remote or economically disadvantaged regions, remains a significant challenge.
- Global Competition: The fiercely competitive international seed market demands continuous improvement in quality and variety offerings.
- Intellectual Property Protection: Safeguarding intellectual property rights while encouraging open innovation poses a delicate balancing act.
- Consumer Preferences: Adapting seed varieties to evolving consumer preferences concerning nutrition, taste, and environmental impact is a dynamic challenge.
Emerging Seed Technologies
- Priming and Enhancement Protocols: These protocols prepare seeds to excel under various growing conditions. Particularly valuable in regions experiencing stressors, they boost seed performance independently or in conjunction with the seed’s genetic attributes.
- Film Coating and Pelleting: Film coating involves a protective layer applied to seeds, aiding precise planting and acting as a vehicle for pesticides, nutrients, and growth promoters. Pelleting shares similar benefits, enhancing seed protection and handling.
- Seed Treatments: Seed treatments encompass the application of biological or chemical pesticides to seeds, with contact or systemic action against pests and diseases during germination and early growth stages.
- Bio-stimulants and Nutrients: Integration of bio-stimulants and nutrients into seeds fosters improved germination rates and rapid seedling establishment, contributing to overall plant vitality and productivity.
- AI-Responsive Sensors/Substances: Seeds infused with AI-responsive sensors or substances can adjust plant responses to external stimuli, bolstering adaptability and performance across varying conditions.
- Clean and Green Planting Materials: This technology revolves around generating environmentally friendly and high-performing planting materials for horticultural crops, aligning with sustainable cultivation practices.
- Genetic Advancements in Variety Development: Genetic enhancements play a pivotal role in creating seed varieties with amplified traits such as disease resistance, augmented yield, and enhanced adaptability to shifting environments.
- Metabolic Cues and Molecules: Seed enrichment with molecules or metabolites that act as cues in biological pathways can augment metabolic processes and overall plant well-being.
Way Forward: Embracing Seed Technology for Sustainable Growth
- Research and Innovation: Invest in innovative research for climate-resilient, high-yielding seed varieties.
- Quality Assurance: Guarantee reliable access to quality-assured seeds to bolster the seed market’s stature.
- Tech Transfer: Facilitate technology dissemination to fields via farmer training and extension services
- Empower Smallholders: Ensure affordable, quality seeds and provide capacity-building programs
Conclusion
- As India forges ahead with sustainable agriculture, embracing seed technologies emerges as a linchpin for progress. With robust regulatory mechanisms, India’s journey towards a Clean Green Mission can set the stage for a greener, more resilient agricultural future.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Semiconductor policy and related updates
Mains level: India's Semiconductor Policy, CHIPS ACT and lessons for India
What’s the news?
- The United States’ CHIPS Act, which authorizes substantial funding over five years to boost its semiconductor industry, celebrates its one-year anniversary.
Central idea
- Industrial policies have become pivotal tools for nations to secure competitiveness, innovation, and national security. The CHIPS Act exemplifies such an endeavor, allocating $52.7 billion to bolster the American semiconductor sector. While not a blueprint, this Act offers essential lessons for India’s semiconductor strategy.
What is the CHIPS Act?
- The CHIPS Act, or the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors for America Act, is a United States federal law that was enacted in 2022.
- It aims to address various challenges and concerns related to the semiconductor industry in the United States.
- The CHIPS Act was introduced to boost American competitiveness, innovation, and national security in the semiconductor sector. It recognizes the strategic importance of semiconductor manufacturing and technology leadership for economic growth and national defense.
Notable features of the CHIPS Act
- Significant Funding: The CHIPS Act authorizes $52.7 billion over five years to boost American competitiveness, innovation, and national security in the semiconductor industry.
- Cooperation Across Government: The Act involves cooperation and coordination between multiple government arms, with separate funds allocated to different departments, including the Department of Commerce, the Department of Defense, the Department of State, and the National Science Foundation.
- Lead Agency: The Department of Commerce is designated as the lead agency responsible for administering the $50 billion CHIPS for America Fund, which focuses on accelerating semiconductor manufacturing and research within the United States.
- National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC): A nodal agency, the NSTC, is created to collaborate with industry and educational institutions to develop a competent semiconductor engineering workforce and promote growth in the field.
- Investment Principals and Financial Structuring Directors: The CHIPS Act establishes a CHIPS Program Office (CPO) responsible for assessing project viability and attracting private sector investments. Investment Principals and Financial Structuring Directors are hired to catalyze private sector involvement.
- Future Research Focus: The Act doesn’t solely focus on immediate manufacturing needs. It allocates funding, such as the $11 billion investment in future research, which includes areas like advanced packaging techniques, to ensure the country’s competitiveness in the long term.
- Industrial Policy Template: The CHIPS Act provides a valuable template for effective industrial policy in the semiconductor industry, showcasing institutionalized administrative capacity that supports continuity beyond changes in government.
India’s semiconductor policy
- MeitY’s Leadership: MeitY plays a pivotal role in formulating and executing India’s semiconductor strategy. The ministry’s oversight spans various aspects, including manufacturing, assembly, design, and compound semiconductors.
- India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): Within MeitY, the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) has been established to focus on manufacturing, assembly, and displays. ISM aims to foster indigenous production capabilities by collaborating with industry and academic institutions.
- C-DAC for Chip Design: The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), another MeitY initiative, focuses on chip design. By investing in research and development, C-DAC aims to enhance India’s expertise in chip design and innovation.
- Chips2 Startup (C2S) Program: MeitY’s C2S program collaborates with universities and colleges to cultivate a skilled semiconductor engineering workforce. This initiative emphasizes the importance of industry-aligned training programs to cater to the sector’s specific needs.
- Manufacturing and Export Incentives: To attract investment and promote domestic manufacturing, India offers incentives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. This encourages semiconductor companies to establish manufacturing facilities in India.
Lessons for India
- Whole-of-Government Approach: India’s semiconductor strategy should adopt a whole-of-government approach, similar to the CHIPS Act, to ensure coordination and continuity across different government departments and agencies involved in semiconductor-related initiatives.
- Collaboration and Coordination: Like the CHIPS Act, India should emphasize collaboration between industry, academia, and government to build a skilled semiconductor workforce and ensure alignment between education and industry needs.
- Certification of Training Programs: Instead of directly running training programs, India should focus on certifying quality training programs offered by universities and private training institutes to ensure a competent workforce in the semiconductor sector.
- Long-Term Vision: India’s semiconductor strategy should not only address immediate manufacturing needs but also outline a long-term vision for sustained growth and leadership in the industry.
- Public-Private Collaboration: India should encourage public-private collaboration to attract private sector investments and leverage the expertise of both government and industry for semiconductor development.
- Flexibility in Policy Implementation: India’s semiconductor strategy should be adaptable, allowing for adjustments based on changing industry trends and challenges while aligning with the nation’s goals.
Conclusion
- The CHIPS Act serves as a template for effective industrial policy in the semiconductor sector. By analyzing its strengths and weaknesses, India can learn valuable lessons for structuring its own strategy to achieve competitiveness, innovation, and national security in semiconductors. Effective execution and a comprehensive approach are key takeaways for India’s policymakers.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change impact, Vector borne and water borne diseases
Mains level: Threats posed by climate-induced events, disease management challenges and way ahead
What’s the news?
- The vulnerability of urban households to climate change-led events needs attention in India.
Central idea
- The current monsoon season in India has garnered significant media attention due to the widespread devastation witnessed in various regions. From the cyclonic storm Biparjoy’s landfall in western India to floods in Assam and heavy rainfall causing havoc in the north, these events have raised concerns, especially among policymakers.
Extreme climate events and its impacts on urban cities
- Increased Vulnerability: Urban areas, particularly those with inadequate infrastructure and informal settlements, face heightened vulnerability to extreme climate events. Lack of proper resources and planning exacerbates the impact.
- Disease Outbreaks: Post-monsoon, urban areas are prone to waterborne and vector-borne diseases due to stagnant water and conducive conditions. Diseases like malaria, dengue, cholera, and typhoid can spread rapidly in these environments.
- Higher Urban Household Susceptibility: Urban households are more susceptible to climate-induced diseases compared to rural households, with increased odds of contracting diseases like malaria and dengue.
- Challenges in Disease Management: Coordinating Disease Management in Urban Areas Post-extreme climate events become challenging due to the movement of people across regions and the complex network of agencies involved in healthcare.
- Strain on Health Systems: Urban health systems come under strain as they try to manage the increased demand for healthcare services during and after extreme climate events.
- Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Vulnerable groups, such as those living in slums or informal settlements, are disproportionately affected by the impacts of extreme climate events due to their marginalized living conditions.
A study on disease vulnerability
- Urban vs. Rural Vulnerability: The study reveals that urban households are more vulnerable to climate-induced diseases compared to rural households. This vulnerability is particularly evident in the heightened odds of urban households contracting diseases like malaria and dengue.
- Geographic Implications: The study highlights the geographic variation in disease vulnerability. Households in states with higher climate vulnerability are at a greater risk of suffering from diseases, accentuating the importance of considering regional climate contexts.
- Malaria and Dengue: Urban households face significantly higher odds of suffering from diseases like malaria and dengue. This emphasizes the urban-specific risk factors contributing to the prevalence of these diseases, including factors related to urbanization, living conditions, and healthcare access.
- Climate Vulnerability: The study’s insights point to the connection between climatic conditions and disease vulnerability. Households in states with higher vulnerability to climate change experience elevated risks of disease, signaling the need for targeted interventions in these regions.
- Policy Implications: The findings of the study carry substantial policy implications. Policymakers need to recognize the unique vulnerabilities of urban areas and design tailored strategies to mitigate disease outbreaks in these settings.
Steps to mitigate the challenges posed by extreme climatic events
- Rebuilding the Urban Health Care System:
- Focus on enhancing the urban primary health-care system’s resilience.
- Prioritize serving the vulnerable urban population, particularly those residing in urban slums and peri-urban areas.
- Develop a health system capable of promptly responding to emergencies, proactively preparing for impending crises, and flexibly adapting to changing public health needs.
- Increase Public Investment:
- Allocate more substantial public investment, with immediate attention directed towards urban areas most susceptible to climatic shocks.
- Address the inadequacy of current funding for primary health care.
- Recognize the pressing need to channel funds toward bolstering health care infrastructure and resources.
- Empower the National Urban Health Mission:
- Support and strengthen the efforts of the National Urban Health Mission.
- Address the limitations in revenue generation capacities among urban local bodies.
- Ensure sufficient financial resources are available to bolster urban health care systems.
- Local Bodies’ Role in Public Health:
- Acknowledge that a significant portion of preventive and public health functions fall under the jurisdiction of local bodies.
- Recognize the importance of supporting local bodies in carrying out their public health responsibilities.
- Establish a Special Fund for Resilience:
- Create a dedicated fund sourced from statutory institutions, such as the Finance Commission.
- Direct this fund towards building a robust and resilient health system in vulnerable urban areas.
- Ensure that the fund is allocated based on identified priorities and needs.
- Extend Attention Beyond Cities:
- Recognize the need to extend targeted efforts beyond major cities to include towns.
- Understand that vulnerability to extreme climatic events is not exclusive to urban centers.
- Allocate resources and support to build resilience in towns as well.
Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic on urban health governance
- Complex Urban Health Governance:
-
- Recognize the intricacies of urban health governance, marked by the involvement of numerous agencies and fragmented care provision.
- Acknowledge the expanding influence and dominance of the private sector in the healthcare landscape.
- Coordination and Cooperation:
- Learn from the pandemic’s experience that effective public health responses require enhanced coordination and cooperation among diverse actors.
- Emphasize knowledge and data sharing, along with coordination in preventive, curative, and treatment aspects.
- Regulation and Standardization:
- Understand the necessity to regulate rates and enforce quality standards, especially in the private sector.
- Recognize the importance of standardized treatment practices to ensure consistent and effective care provision.
- Strengthened Surveillance and Information Systems:
- Acknowledge the critical role of surveillance and information systems, such as the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program.
- Plan to universalize and comprehensively strengthen these systems to effectively respond to public health emergencies.
- Comprehensive Health System Approach:
- Grasp the need to transition from vertical disease control programs to a comprehensive health system approach.
- Consider integrating front-line workers across various disease management programs to create a versatile cadre of public health professionals.
- Address Workforce Shortage:
- Understand the challenge of an inadequately trained health workforce in public health and related areas.
- Address this shortage by creating multipurpose front-line public health cadres accountable to both communities and the health system.
- Climate Change Preparedness:
- Recognize the increasing frequency and intensity of climate change-led events.
- Incorporate climate change awareness into planning and management to build resilience and preparedness.
Conclusion
- As India faces heightened climate-induced health risks, it’s imperative to prioritize the strengthening of urban health systems. The convergence of vulnerability insights, disease management challenges, and the COVID-19 experience highlights the need for integrated, resilient health systems. By adapting to changing public health needs, India can better prepare for the growing threats posed by climate-induced events.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jan Vishwas Bill
Mains level: Jan Vishwas Bill, 2023 , Amendments, concerns and , significance,
What’s the news?
- The corridors of India’s Parliament recently witnessed the passage of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023.
Central idea
- The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023, spearheaded by the Minister of Commerce and Industry, is a transformative piece of legislation aimed at ushering in a new era of ease in daily life and business operations. The Bill proposes sweeping amendments to decriminalize 183 provisions within 42 Central Acts overseen by 19 Ministries and Departments.
What is the Jan Vishwas Bill about?
- The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023, is designed with the dual objective of further enhancing the ease of living and the ease of doing business within the country.
- The primary focus of the bill is to amend and update various provisions present in 42 Central Acts that fall under the purview of 19 Ministries and Departments.
- The amendments proposed by the Jan Vishwas Bill encompass diverse sectors such as agriculture, the environment, media and publication, health, and more.
Key Features
- Amendment of Multiple Provisions: The bill targets the amendment of 183 provisions within 42 Central Acts administered by 19 Ministries/Departments, spanning sectors like agriculture, environment, media, publication, and healthcare.
- Conversion of Fines to Penalties: A significant shift is the transformation of fines into penalties, simplifying the process of imposing punishments for offenses and minimizing the need for court intervention.
- Removal of Imprisonment as Punishment: The bill proposes the removal of imprisonment as a punitive measure for certain offenses, with an emphasis on using penalties as a more efficient means of addressing non-compliance.
- Focus on Healthcare: Notable amendments are proposed for acts such as the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Pharmacy Act, 1948. These changes have sparked debates among healthcare activists, pharmacy experts, and patient-welfare groups.
Pros of the Amendments
- Efficient Punishments: The conversion of fines into penalties can expedite the process of administering punishments for offenses, potentially leading to a quicker resolution of cases.
- Business-Friendly Environment: The removal of imprisonment as a punishment for certain offenses can create a more favorable atmosphere for businesses, reducing concerns about severe penalties.
- Ease of Doing Business: By simplifying regulations, businesses can operate more smoothly, attracting investments and fostering economic growth.
- Balanced Approach: The bill aims to maintain a balance between public health and business growth, ensuring regulatory effectiveness while facilitating business operations.
Cons of the Amendments
- Public Health Concerns: Critics argue that reduced penalties for Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) drugs and pharmacy license violations could compromise patient safety by lowering the consequences for non-compliance.
- Quality Control: Diminished penalties might lead to lax quality control in sectors like healthcare and food safety, potentially impacting consumer well-being.
- Deterrence Impact: Reduced penalties and the elimination of imprisonment might weaken the deterrent effect on potential violators, potentially leading to increased non-compliance.
- Industry Accountability: Critics contend that the amendments could lower industry accountability by providing lenient regulatory measures, potentially affecting public health and safety.
The Government’s Argument in Favor of the Jan Vishwas Bill
- India’s Global Role: Emphasizing India’s position as the pharmacy of the world, the government asserts that the amendments are essential to align regulations with this significant global role.
- Balancing Health and Business: The government contends that while ensuring the availability of high-quality medicines, it’s equally important to provide reasonable benefits to businesses, striking a balance between these objectives.
- Ease of Doing Business: The government highlights the necessity of creating a business-friendly environment to attract investments and promote economic growth. Streamlining regulations through the amendments aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
- Efficiency and Growth: By converting fines into penalties, the government argues that the process of imposing punishments for offenses becomes more efficient, aligning with the goal of ease of living and doing business.
- Global Alignment: The government stresses the importance of adapting regulations to evolving global standards. The amendments are positioned as a way to modernize and simplify regulations, aligning India’s practices with international norms.
- Business and Economic Development: The amendments are framed as essential for supporting business growth, which contributes to overall economic development and increased job opportunities.
Conclusion
- The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023, emerges as a multidimensional legislative reform aiming to promote both the well-being of the public and the growth of businesses. The challenge lies in crafting regulations that not only facilitate industry growth but also uphold public health, safety, and societal responsibility, ultimately leading to a harmonious and prosperous nation.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka
What’s the news?
- Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe made an official visit to India last month. It was his first trip to India since taking over as president of the Indian Ocean Island state. Wickremesinghe came to power amid social and political upheaval as Sri Lanka went through its worst economic crisis last year.
Central idea
- The recent visit of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to New Delhi has brought about a series of significant bilateral agreements that hold the potential to fortify the Sri Lankan economy against the unprecedented economic shocks experienced last year. This visit has laid the foundation for numerous projects aimed at promoting connectivity and catalyzing prosperity under the umbrella of the India-Sri Lanka Partnership Vision.
Significance of the Visit for Sri Lanka
- Economic Recovery: The bilateral agreements inked during the visit focus on reinforcing Sri Lanka’s economy after the severe economic challenges of the past year. These agreements promise sector-specific solutions in energy, fuel, and forex management, which are crucial for stabilizing and revitalizing the economy.
- Connectivity and Prosperity: The joint statement, titled ‘Promoting Connectivity, Catalyzing Prosperity,’ encapsulates the essence of the agreements. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity through projects like the land bridge, maritime connections, and air travel. These endeavors are expected to promote regional trade and economic growth.
- Energy Security: Agreements related to petroleum infrastructure, power grids, and hydrocarbon exploration are poised to address Sri Lanka’s energy security concerns. By ensuring a stable energy supply, these initiatives can safeguard against future economic shocks stemming from energy vulnerabilities.
- Tourism and People-to-People Contacts: The commitment to bolster bilateral tourism and encourage people-to-people interactions between the two nations has the potential to foster cultural exchange, boost economic activity, and strengthen ties between citizens.
- Ethnic Reconciliation: Acknowledging the ethnic issue in Sri Lanka and the commitment to implementing the 13th Amendment and holding Provincial Council Elections reflect India’s support for Sri Lanka’s pursuit of a peaceful and inclusive resolution to its internal challenges.
Significance of the Visit for India
- For India, President Wickremesinghe’s visit holds strategic importance, aligning with its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and broader regional objectives:
- Economic Partnerships: The agreements signed during the visit open doors for Indian investments and economic engagement in Sri Lanka. These partnerships contribute to India’s economic growth and influence in the region.
- Enhanced Connectivity: The connectivity initiatives outlined in the joint statement align with India’s efforts to strengthen regional connectivity, expand trade networks, and promote economic integration in the Indian Ocean region.
- Energy Cooperation: Collaborative energy projects, such as petroleum pipelines and power grid interconnections, enable India to play a role in ensuring Sri Lanka’s energy security. This cooperation fosters goodwill and strengthens diplomatic ties.
- Regional Balance: The visit allows India to counterbalance other regional players and maintain its strategic influence in the Indian Ocean. Strengthening ties with Sri Lanka is crucial for regional stability and security.
- Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: The commitment to promoting bilateral tourism and facilitating people-to-people contacts enhances India’s cultural diplomacy and strengthens the bond between the two countries.
- Geostrategic Significance: Strengthening ties with Sri Lanka serves India’s interests in maintaining a strong presence in the Indian Ocean and countering China’s growing influence in the region.
Outcomes of the visit
- Economic Agreements and Initiatives:
- Bilateral agreements were signed to fortify Sri Lanka’s economy against economic shocks. These agreements encompass various sectors, including energy, fuel, and forex management.
- Cooperation in economic development projects in the Trincomalee District was emphasized, aiming to elevate Trincomalee as a hub for industry and economic activities.
- Energy and Infrastructure Development:
- Feasibility studies for a petroleum pipeline from southern India to Sri Lanka were agreed upon, focusing on ensuring a reliable supply of energy resources.
- Collaboration on high-capacity power grid interconnection for bidirectional electricity trade between Sri Lanka and BBIN countries was highlighted to cut electricity costs and enhance forex earnings.
- Acceleration of the Indian public sector NTPC’s Sampur solar power project and LNG infrastructure projects were addressed to contribute to energy sufficiency.
- Connectivity and Trade:
- Initiatives to promote maritime connectivity included the Kankesanthurai-Nagapattinam ferry service and the resumption of ferry services between Rameswaram and Talaimannar.
- Expansion of air connectivity, including resuming flights between Jaffna and Chennai and exploring connectivity to other destinations, was discussed to enhance people-to-people ties and boost trade.
- Investment Facilitation and Currency Settlements:
- Plans to facilitate Indian investments in the divestment of state-owned enterprises and economic zones were discussed to enhance trade and economic growth.
- The designation of the Indian rupee as the currency for trade settlements between the two countries was emphasized to strengthen commercial linkage and reduce dependency on the US dollar.
- Ethnic Reconciliation and Political Engagement:
- Discussions on the ethnic issue in Sri Lanka led to expressions of support for the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections, promoting equality and peace for the Tamil community.
- Geostrategic Implications:
- The visit reaffirmed India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and strategic engagement with Sri Lanka, strengthening India’s influence in the region and supporting regional stability.
- Collaboration with the Private Sector:
- President Wickremesinghe explored collaborative projects with Indian industrialist Gautam Adani, focusing on initiatives like the development of Colombo Port West Container Terminal and renewable energy projects.
Addressing Sensitive Issues
- Fishermen’s Dispute:
- The longstanding issue of fishermen from both India and Sri Lanka straying into each other’s territorial waters for fishing has led to conflicts and arrests.
- This issue has historical and economic dimensions, as the livelihoods of many fishermen are at stake.
- Resolving this dispute requires delicate negotiations and mutual understanding.
- Ethnic Issue:
- This refers to the complex and often sensitive matter of the relationship between the majority Sinhalese community and the minority Tamil community in Sri Lanka.
- The decades-long ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, particularly the civil war involving the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), has left deep scars.
- The 13th Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution, facilitated by India, aimed to provide devolution of power to provincial councils, particularly in Tamil-majority areas, as a means to address some of the ethnic tensions.
- However, the complete resolution of the ethnic issue requires careful consideration of political, cultural, and historical factors.
Way forward
- Enhanced Connectivity and Trade:
- Prioritize and implement connectivity projects, such as the land bridge and maritime connectivity, to boost trade, tourism, and people-to-people interactions.
- Strengthen air connectivity to facilitate easier travel and economic exchange.
- Energy Security and Sustainability:
- Expedite feasibility studies for the petroleum pipeline and power grid interconnection to ensure energy security and stability.
- Collaborate on renewable energy projects to promote sustainability and reduce dependency on traditional energy sources.
- Economic Cooperation and Investments:
- Facilitate Indian investments in Sri Lanka’s divestment of state-owned enterprises and economic zones to drive economic growth and job creation.
- Expand bilateral trade and encourage the use of designated currencies for trade settlements.
- Cultural Exchanges and Youth Engagement:
- Promote cultural exchanges and youth programs to deepen cultural understanding and foster lasting connections.
- Create academic and research collaborations to share knowledge and expertise.
- Sensitive Issue Resolution and Diplomatic Dialogue:
- Continue diplomatic efforts to resolve sensitive issues, such as the fishermen’s dispute and the ethnic question.
- Engage in inclusive dialogues and implement existing agreements for lasting solutions.
Conclusion
- The New Delhi visit of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe marks a significant step toward bolstering bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka. The multifaceted agreements encompass connectivity, energy security, trade, and cultural exchange. As both countries work towards realizing their shared goals, these initiatives promise to strengthen regional prosperity and cooperation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Online gaming Industry and Cybersecurity threats
What’s the news?
- The video gaming industry has come a long way from Pong in 1972 to the release of Hogwarts Legacy in 2023. The recent surge has been a result of COVID-19, when the market expanded by about 26 percent between 2019 and 2021. However, this popular form of recreation has also imperiled cybersecurity.
Central idea
- The video gaming industry has experienced tremendous growth, transforming from a niche form of entertainment to a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon. With over US$227 billion in revenue in 2022 and an expected 3.32 billion gamers by 2024, the industry’s popularity is unprecedented. However, this remarkable expansion has also led to a surge in cyberattacks, imperiling cybersecurity.
A Surge in Cyberattacks
- The gaming sector has become a prime target for cybercriminals, experiencing a staggering 167 percent increase in web application attacks in 2021 alone.
- In 2022, the industry witnessed an unprecedented wave of Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, with gaming platforms accounting for approximately 37 percent of all such attacks.
- These cyber threats have put gamers at risk, with account takeovers, cheating mods, credit card theft, and fraud becoming disturbingly common.
The Pentagon Leak Case
- One of the most alarming cyber incidents occurred in April 2023, when a Discord server centered around the popular video game Minecraft, became the source of the worst Pentagon leak in years.
- Classified documents, some marked top Secret, were exposed, containing sensitive information about the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, potential issues with Ukrainian ammunition supplies, and intelligence regarding the Russian military.
- Shockingly, the documents also hinted at US surveillance of its allies, specifically Israel and South Korea.
The virtual economy of video games
- The monetization of video games through in-game currencies and microtransactions has given rise to virtual economies.
- While developers offer players the ability to purchase virtual items using real money, the practice has come under scrutiny due to its perceived predatory nature, particularly concerning minors.
- Some countries have outright banned such practices, deeming them a form of online gambling. For example, Belgium banned the purchase of FIFA points, an in-game currency, in the famous football franchise FIFA.
- In February 2023, Austria followed suit, declaring FIFA packs illegal gambling.
The current policy framework around online gaming
- As of April 2023, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in India has implemented new rules to regulate the online gaming industry.
- The current policy framework divides online games into two categories:
- Online real money games: Games that involve real money and are registered with Self-Regulatory organizations (SROs). These games are subject to specific regulations and oversight.
- Games that do not involve real money: Games that do not have any monetary transactions or betting and wagering involved.
The key provisions of the current policy framework
- Ban on online games involving betting and wagering: The new rules explicitly ban online games that have elements of betting and wagering. This move aims to curb illegal gambling activities within the gaming space.
- Obligations for online gaming intermediaries: The rules define the responsibilities and obligations of online gaming intermediaries. These intermediaries are required to follow certain norms, including Know Your Customer (KYC) norms, parental consent, and grievance redressal mechanisms. The objective is to enhance transparency and accountability in the sector.
- Establishment of Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs): The policy requires the appointment of three SROs, consisting of industry representatives, educationists, and other experts. These SROs play a crucial role in determining which online games are permissible under the regulations.
Limitations of the current policy framework
- Narrow focus: The rules primarily target online games that involve real money transactions and betting. They do not comprehensively address other potential threats like microtransactions, loot boxes, and money laundering using virtual currencies.
- Loopholes: Many online games can bypass the regulations by offering rewards and prizes in virtual currency instead of real money. This allows certain gaming practices, resembling gambling, to continue unchecked.
- Ignoring loot boxes: The rules do not specifically address the issue of loot boxes, which have been controversial and deemed potential forms of gambling in many countries.
- Lack of collaboration: The current policy framework appears to be a unilateral effort by the Indian government without substantial consultation with relevant stakeholders, including industry experts and gamers.
Way Forward
- Strengthen the Regulatory Framework: Expand and make the current policy framework more comprehensive, including microtransactions and loot boxes, to tackle potential gambling-related issues.
- Collaborate with Industry Experts: Engage with gaming companies, cybersecurity experts, and gamers to gain insights into specific cybersecurity threats and devise effective regulations.
- Raise Awareness among Gamers: Educate users about cybersecurity threats, secure practices, and reporting mechanisms for suspicious activities.
- Invest in Robust cybersecurity. Prioritize cybersecurity by investing in encryption, secure authentication, and regular security audits.
- Develop Reporting Mechanisms: Implement efficient reporting systems within gaming platforms to address cyber threats promptly.
- International Cooperation: Collaborate globally to share intelligence and best practices in combating cybercrime.
- Ethical Game Design: Encourage ethical practices that prioritize player well-being over excessive monetization.
Conclusion
- Online gaming is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global entertainment and media industry and provides a powerful new platform to unite people from all around the world. Consequently, we need to ensure that the industry continues to grow in a safe and responsible manner, and that bad actors looking to tarnish the experience for others are dealt with accordingly.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AI applications
Mains level: Applications of AI, Carbon Footprint of AI, It's role in climate change
What’s the news?
- The field of artificial intelligence (AI) is experiencing unprecedented growth, largely driven by the excitement surrounding innovative tools like ChatGPT. AI systems are already a big part of our lives, helping governments, industries, and regular people be more efficient and make data-driven decisions. But there are some significant downsides to this technology.
Central idea
- As tech giants race to develop more sophisticated AI products, global investment in the AI market has surged to $142.3 billion and is projected to reach nearly $2 trillion by 2030. However, this boom in AI technology comes with a significant carbon footprint, which necessitates urgent action to mitigate its environmental impact.
Applications of AI
- Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI-powered NLP technologies have revolutionized human-computer interactions. Virtual assistants, chatbots, language translation, sentiment analysis, and content curation are some of the areas where NLP plays a vital role.
- Image and Video Analysis: AI’s capabilities in analyzing images and videos have led to breakthroughs in facial recognition, object detection, autonomous vehicles, and medical imaging.
- Recommendation Systems: AI-driven recommendation engines cater to personalized experiences in e-commerce, streaming services, and social media, providing users with tailored product and content suggestions.
- Predictive Analytics: AI excels at predictive analytics, enabling businesses to make informed decisions by analyzing historical data to forecast future trends in finance, supply chain management, risk assessment, and weather predictions.
- Healthcare and Medicine: AI’s potential in healthcare is immense. From medical diagnostics to drug discovery, patient monitoring, and personalized treatment plans, AI is driving significant advancements in the medical field.
- Finance and Trading: AI-driven algorithms are employed in algorithmic trading, fraud detection, credit risk assessment, and financial market analysis, optimizing financial processes.
- Autonomous Systems: AI powers autonomous vehicles, drones, and robots for various tasks, transforming transportation, delivery, surveillance, and exploration.
- Industrial Automation: AI-driven automation optimizes manufacturing and industrial processes, monitors equipment health, and enhances operational efficiency.
- Personalization and Customer Service: AI enables personalized customer experiences, with tailored recommendations, customer support chatbots, and virtual assistants that enhance customer satisfaction.
- Environmental Monitoring: AI contributes to environmental monitoring and analysis, including air quality assessment, climate pattern observation, and wildlife conservation efforts.
- Education and E-Learning: AI applications facilitate adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and educational content curation, enhancing personalized learning experiences.
- Social Media and Content Moderation: AI plays a role in content moderation on social media platforms, identifying and addressing inappropriate content and detecting fake accounts or malicious activities.
- Legal and Compliance: AI assists legal professionals with contract analysis, legal research, and compliance monitoring, streamlining legal work.
- Public Safety and Security: AI finds use in surveillance systems, predictive policing, and emergency response systems, bolstering public safety efforts.
The Carbon Footprint of AI
- Data Processing and Training: The training phase of AI models requires processing massive amounts of data, often in data centers. This data crunching demands substantial computing power and is energy-intensive, contributing to AI’s carbon footprint.
- Global AI Market Value: The global AI market is currently valued at $142.3 billion (€129.6 billion), and it is expected to grow to nearly $2 trillion by 2030.
- Carbon Footprint of Data Centers: The entire data center infrastructure and data submission networks account for 2–4% of global CO2 emissions. While this includes various data center operations, AI plays a significant role in contributing to these emissions.
- Carbon Emissions from AI Training: In a 2019 study, researchers from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, found that training a common large AI model can emit up to 284,000 kilograms (626,000 pounds) of carbon dioxide equivalent. This is nearly five times the emissions of a car over its lifetime, including the manufacturing process.
- AI Application Phase Emissions: The application phase of AI, where the model is used in real-world scenarios, can potentially account for up to 90% of the emissions in the life cycle of an AI.
Addressing AI’s carbon footprint
- Energy-Efficient Algorithms: Developing and optimizing energy-efficient AI algorithms and training techniques can help reduce energy consumption during the training phase. By prioritizing efficiency in AI model architectures and algorithms, less computational power is required, leading to lower carbon emissions.
- Renewable Energy Adoption: Encouraging data centers and AI infrastructure to transition to renewable energy sources can have a significant impact on AI’s carbon footprint. Utilizing solar, wind, or hydroelectric power to power data centers can help reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.
- Scaling Down AI Models: Instead of continuously pursuing larger AI models, companies can explore using smaller models and datasets. Smaller AI models require less computational power, leading to lower energy consumption during training and deployment.
- Responsible AI Deployment: Prioritizing responsible and energy-efficient AI applications can minimize unnecessary AI usage and optimize AI systems for energy conservation.
- Data Center Location Selection: Choosing data center locations in regions powered by renewable energy and with cooler climates can further reduce AI’s carbon footprint. Cooler climates reduce the need for extensive data center cooling, thereby decreasing energy consumption.
- Collaboration and Regulation: Collaboration among tech companies, policymakers, and environmental organizations is crucial to establishing industry-wide standards and regulations that promote sustainable AI development. Policymakers can incentivize green practices and set emissions reduction targets for the AI sector.
Conclusion
- To build a sustainable AI future, environmental considerations must be integrated into all stages of AI development, from design to deployment. The tech industry and governments must collaborate to strike a balance between technological advancement and ecological responsibility to protect the planet for future generations.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Need for Improved Standards, Significance, benefits and challenges and
What’s the news?
- The Indian government recently directed all pharmaceutical companies in the country to implement the revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to bring their processes in line with global standards.
Central Idea
- The improved standards aim to address critical issues, including alleged contamination incidents in India-manufactured products, deficiencies in quality control measures, and a of adherence to global guidelines. By ensuring adherence to the revised GMP, India aims to enhance the quality of medicines available in both domestic and global markets.
About Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- GMP is a set of guidelines and quality management principles that ensure pharmaceutical products, as well as other products in the food and healthcare industries, are consistently produced and controlled to meet quality standards appropriate for their intended use.
- GMP covers all aspects of the manufacturing process, including the premises, equipment, personnel, materials, production, quality control, documentation, and storage of finished products.
The Need for Improved Standards
- Alignment with Global Standards: Implementing the new GMP norms will align the Indian pharmaceutical industry with global standards, ensuring that the country’s products meet the expectations of international regulators and consumers.
- Contamination Incidents: Numerous incidents of contamination in India-manufactured syrups, eye-drops, and eye ointments have been reported in other countries, leading to tragic consequences. These incidents have emphasized the need for stricter quality control measures.
- Identified Deficiencies: A risk-based inspection of manufacturing units revealed several deficiencies, such as the lack of testing incoming raw materials, inadequate product quality review, absence of quality failure investigation, infrastructure issues, and the absence of qualified professionals.
Importance of Implementing Revised GMP
- Standardized Processes: The improved standards will ensure that pharmaceutical companies follow standardized processes and quality control measures, thus enhancing the quality of medicines manufactured and sold both in India and globally.
- Recommendations from Chitan Shivir: The implementation of the revised GMP was one of the suggested measures during a Chitan Shivir following the contamination incidents. The stakeholders also recommended the creation of a country-wide IT platform to promote uniformity in licensing and inspection processes across states.
Benefits of the Revised GMP Implementation
- Boosting Regulatory Confidence: Uniform quality standards across the industry will instill confidence in regulators from other countries, potentially reducing the need for repeated inspections.
- Improving Domestic Market Quality: The implementation of revised GMP will enhance the quality of medicines supplied within India, benefitting consumers and public health.
Major Changes in the Revised GMP Guidelines
- Pharmaceutical Quality System: The new guidelines introduce a pharmaceutical quality system to ensure consistent product quality and a thorough investigation of deviations or defects.
- Quality Risk Management: Companies will be required to conduct risk assessments and implement preventive actions to manage quality risks effectively.
- Product Quality Review: Regular quality reviews of all products will be mandated to verify the consistency of quality and processes.
- Validation of Equipment: Pharmaceutical companies will have to validate equipment to ensure the accuracy and reliability of production processes.
- GMP-related Computerized Systems: The guidelines emphasize the use of computerized systems for GMP-related processes to prevent data tampering and unauthorized access.
- Additional Product Requirements: The new schedule M lists requirements for biological products, agents with radioactive ingredients, plant-derived products, and investigational products for clinical trials.
Way forward
- Urgent Implementation: Pharmaceutical companies must immediately initiate the implementation of the revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines. Larger companies have six months, and smaller companies have a year to comply.
- Investment in Upgradation: Prioritize investments in facility upgradation, modern equipment, and IT systems to meet the new GMP standards.
- Employee Training and Awareness: Conduct extensive training programs for all employees to educate them about the revised GMP guidelines and their importance.
- Quality Control Enhancement: Strengthen quality control processes and invest in advanced testing equipment and laboratories to ensure product integrity and safety.
- Effective Documentation Systems: Implement robust documentation systems to maintain comprehensive records of manufacturing processes, quality checks, and deviations.
- Continuous Monitoring and Auditing: Regularly monitor manufacturing processes and conduct internal audits to assess GMP compliance.
Conclusion
- The Indian government’s initiative to implement the revised GMP is a commendable step towards bringing the country’s pharmaceutical industry up to global standards. The successful implementation of these improved standards will undoubtedly elevate India’s status in the global pharmaceutical arena
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sugarcane industry
Mains level: Surplus Sugarcane production, factors behind and concerns
What’s the news?
- India’s top sugarcane-growing states rely heavily on groundwater for irrigation, leading to concerns over groundwater depletion.
Central idea
- India’s remarkable achievement of becoming the world’s top sugar producer in 2021-2022, surpassing Brazil, brings with it a significant challenge. The overcultivation of sugarcane has resulted in a sugar surplus and high exports, negatively impacting groundwater levels. To safeguard the agricultural sector and protect vital natural resources, addressing groundwater overuse in the sugar industry is of utmost importance.
Factors Behind the Excess Sugar Production
- Government Policies and Subsidies: The Indian government’s policies and subsidies play a significant role in encouraging farmers to cultivate sugarcane. The fair and remunerative price (FRP) scheme ensures that sugar mills pay a minimum price to sugarcane farmers, guaranteeing them fair profits for their crop.
- Domestic Demand: India’s position as the world’s largest consumer of sugar creates a substantial demand for sugar and its by-products. To meet this demand, farmers increase sugarcane cultivation, leading to excess sugar production.
- Export Incentives: The surplus sugar production in India has led to higher exports, and the government offers export subsidies to boost overseas sales.
Impact of Excessive Sugarcane Cultivation on Groundwater
- Water Depletion in Groundwater Reservoirs:
- Excessive sugarcane cultivation contributes to the depletion of groundwater reserves.
- In regions with inadequate rainfall, farmers heavily rely on groundwater from confined aquifers to sustain sugarcane crops.
- This over-extraction of groundwater leads to a reduction in groundwater levels, depleting the available water resources.
- Groundwater Stress and Drought Concerns:
- The extensive use of groundwater for sugarcane cultivation puts immense stress on groundwater reservoirs. In regions already experiencing groundwater stress, the additional demand for water exacerbates the problem.
- Moreover, sugarcane cultivation often occurs in areas prone to drought, and excessive water usage further exacerbates the vulnerability of these regions to water scarcity.
- Environmental Impacts:
- Groundwater depletion due to excessive sugarcane cultivation can have severe environmental consequences.
- As groundwater levels decline, it affects the health of ecosystems dependent on groundwater sources, such as wetlands, rivers, and lakes. Reduced flow in rivers and streams can harm aquatic life and disrupt local ecosystems.
- Impact on Farmers and Livelihoods: Groundwater depletion directly affects farmers who rely on it for irrigation. As water levels drop, farmers may face difficulties in accessing sufficient water for their crops, leading to reduced yields and economic losses. In areas where sugarcane is the dominant crop, groundwater depletion can impact the livelihoods of farming communities.
- Long-Term Sustainability Concerns:
- The continued excessive use of groundwater for sugarcane cultivation is not sustainable in the long run.
- Depleting groundwater reserves can lead to permanent damage to aquifers and reduce the overall capacity to support agricultural activities in the future.
Solutions to address the problem of excessive sugar production
- Crop Diversification: Encourage farmers to diversify their crops and reduce their heavy reliance on sugarcane cultivation. Introducing fair and comprehensive subsidy schemes for a variety of crops can help farmers diversify their cultivation, preventing monocultures and reducing the strain on groundwater resources.
- Sustainable Sugarcane Cultivation Practices: Promote environmentally responsible sugarcane cultivation practices that prioritize groundwater conservation. Encouraging the use of drip irrigation, which reduces water consumption by up to 70% compared to flood irrigation, can be made mandatory in sugarcane-growing regions. The government can also offer subsidies to farmers for setting up drip irrigation systems.
- Water-Saving and Management Systems: Invest in water-saving and management systems such as rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment, and canal irrigation networks. These initiatives can minimize stress on groundwater reservoirs as alternative water sources become available for irrigation.
- Groundwater Research and Mapping: Invest in groundwater research and mapping to better understand groundwater availability and distribution. This data can help in devising effective strategies to manage groundwater resources more sustainably.
- Review of Export Incentives: Review export incentives and subsidies to ensure they are not leading to excessive sugar production and environmental degradation. Striking a balance between domestic demand and exports will help manage sugar production more efficiently.
- Public Awareness and Education: Create public awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the importance of sustainable water management and the impact of excessive sugarcane cultivation on groundwater. Providing training and guidance on adopting water-saving practices can facilitate better resource management.
- Government Regulations and Policies: Implement regulations and policies to control groundwater extraction and prevent overexploitation. By enforcing responsible water use, the government can protect groundwater resources and ensure their sustainability.
Conclusion
- Balancing sugar production with responsible water management practices is vital for the well-being of farmers, the preservation of natural resources, and the long-term stability of the agricultural sector. By implementing a multi-faceted approach that encourages crop diversification and sustainable cultivation practices, India can pave the way for a greener and more resilient future.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cheetahs and other species in news
Mains level: Reintroduction of the Cheetahs in India, significance, conservation challenges and way ahead
What’s the news?
- Tblisi, a female cheetah translocated from Namibia, has died at Kuno National Park. This is the ninth cheetah to die at Kuno, including three of the four cubs born there. With 30% of the 20 translocated cheetahs dead in just over four months, the alarm bells are ringing.
Central idea
- To safeguard our natural heritage, societies endowed with ethics and financial resources often reintroduce locally extinct species to benefit from the ecosystem services they provide. The cheetah’s historical presence in India, its role as an evolutionary force, and its potential as a flagship species for conservation highlight the importance of this reintroduction effort.
Historical Presence of Cheetahs in India
- The historical presence of cheetahs in India can be traced back to ancient times.
- Prehistoric cave paintings, ancient texts, and the Sanskrit origin of the name cheetah provide evidence of its indigenous nature in the Indian subcontinent.
- Recent genetic analysis has also confirmed that the extinct Indian cheetah originated in Persia.
- Several Ethiopian fauna, such as the lion, the striped hyena, honey badger, caracal, and gazelles including the cheetah, are believed to have colonized India through Persia during ancient periods.
Cheetah’s Role as an Evolutionary Force
- Prey Population Control: By chasing and catching its prey, the cheetah naturally removes weak, sick, and young individuals from the population. This process ensures that only the fittest individuals survive, leading to a healthier and stronger prey population.
- Maintaining Biodiversity: As a top carnivore, the cheetah plays a vital role in regulating the population of herbivores, such as the blackbuck, which is its major prey species. By controlling herbivore populations, the cheetah indirectly influences the abundance and distribution of other plant and animal species in the ecosystem, thereby contributing to biodiversity.
- Balancing Ecosystem Dynamics: The cheetah’s presence helps maintain a balance between predator and prey species. This ecological equilibrium is essential for the overall stability and health of the ecosystem.
- Ecosystem Services: Cheetahs, like other top carnivores, provide ecosystem services by influencing the behavior and distribution of their prey species. This, in turn, affects vegetation dynamics and nutrient cycling, contributing to the overall functioning of the ecosystem.
Economic Benefits of Reintroduction
- Ecotourism Revenue: Reintroducing cheetahs can boost ecotourism in the regions where they are present. Tourists from India and around the world are likely to visit these areas to witness the magnificent cheetahs in their natural habitat.
- Employment Opportunities: The growth of ecotourism and wildlife-related activities creates employment opportunities for local residents. Jobs in hospitality, guiding, park management, and conservation efforts can improve the livelihoods of nearby communities.
- Community-Based Ecotourism: The presence of cheetahs can encourage the development of community-based ecotourism initiatives. Local communities can actively participate in tourism ventures, leading to a sense of ownership and empowerment.
- Sharing of Gate Receipts: Revenue generated from ecotourism and wildlife tourism can be shared with nearby buffer zone villages. This revenue-sharing model incentivizes local communities to support and protect the cheetah population, fostering positive attitudes towards conservation.
- Increase in Real Estate Value: Areas surrounding national parks and wildlife reserves with cheetah populations may experience an increase in real estate value due to their proximity to these ecologically significant regions.
- Research and Education Opportunities: The reintroduction of cheetahs presents opportunities for research and educational programs. Institutions and researchers can conduct studies on cheetah behavior, ecology, and conservation, contributing to scientific knowledge and environmental education.
- Wildlife-Based Enterprises: The presence of cheetahs can encourage the development of wildlife-based enterprises, such as handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products, catering to tourists interested in supporting local communities and conservation efforts.
- Positive Perception: Successful reintroduction projects can enhance India’s international image as a country committed to wildlife conservation and ecological restoration. This positive perception can attract international support and collaborations for further conservation initiatives
Challenges in Reintroduction and Conservation
- Mortality Risks: During the reintroduction process, cheetahs may face various mortality risks, such as snaring, attacks by leopards and feral dogs, starvation, disease, and road kills.
- Adaptation to Indian Conditions: The cheetahs being reintroduced are originally from Southern Africa, which has a different climate and photoperiod than India.
- Enclosed Protected Areas: Some cheetahs have experienced management-related deaths within enclosed protected areas, such as cubs dying due to malnourishment and females being killed by males.
- Disease Management: Cheetahs may be susceptible to certain diseases in the Indian environment.
- Genetic Diversity: The reintroduced population may suffer from reduced genetic diversity due to the small number of individuals initially brought in. A lack of genetic diversity can lead to inbreeding depression and hamper the long-term viability of the population.
- Interactions with Livestock: Cheetahs may occasionally prey on livestock, leading to conflicts with local communities.
Way forward
- Scientific Research and Planning: Conduct thorough scientific research to understand the ecological requirements of cheetahs, their prey species, and the potential habitats for reintroduction. Develop a detailed plan that addresses the challenges, risks, and opportunities involved in the reintroduction process.
- Habitat Restoration and Protection: Identify and restore suitable habitats for cheetahs, ensuring sufficient prey availability and minimizing human-wildlife conflicts. Implement measures to protect these habitats from further fragmentation and encroachment.
- Disease Management: Implement disease surveillance and management protocols to monitor the health of reintroduced cheetahs and prevent the spread of diseases to other wildlife and domestic animals.
- Genetic Diversity: Ensure genetic diversity among the reintroduced cheetah population by carefully selecting individuals from different sources and considering genetic health in the reintroduction process.
- International Collaboration: Foster collaboration with other countries, such as Namibia and South Africa, from where the cheetahs are sourced, to ensure the welfare and continued support for the reintroduced cheetahs.
- Public Awareness: Raise public awareness about the importance of cheetah conservation and the ecological role of these majestic animals. Educate people about the benefits of coexisting with cheetahs and supporting their reintroduction.
Conclusion
- Reintroducing cheetahs to India is a crucial step towards ecological security. With continued efforts, support from the government, and active involvement of local communities, the cheetah’s return to the Indian landscape can become a symbol of successful conservation and sustainability.
Also read:
Radio collars are killing the cheetahs in Kuno. Here is how — and why
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Species of vultures
Mains level: Role of vultures in the ecosystem, threats to vulture population and conservation efforts,
What’s the news?
- The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare banned the manufacture, sale, and distribution of ketoprofen and aceclofenac and their formulations for animal use under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 (23 of 40) in a notification dated July 31, 2023
Central idea
- Experts dedicated to vulture conservation have warmly welcomed this initiative, recognizing it as a game changer for India’s beleaguered vulture population. However, the true test lies in the effective implementation of the ban, while the experts also advocate for extending similar protective measures to other raptors (birds of prey).
What are Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac?
- Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and alleviate fever. They belong to the same class of medications, but have slight differences in their chemical structures and properties.
Background
- In the 1990s, India witnessed a sharp decline in its vulture populations due to the use of diclofenac, a pain reliever administered to cattle.
- Vultures feeding on cattle carcasses ingested the drug, leading to their painful deaths.
- The alarming revelation in 2004 showed that 97% of the vulture population had been lost, primarily affecting species like oriental white-backed vultures, long-billed vultures, and slender-billed vultures.
The Vulture Recovery Plan
- In response to the crisis, the Indian government and various agencies formulated a Vulture Recovery Plan in 2004.
- The plan aimed to ban the veterinary use of diclofenac, find safer substitutes, and establish conservation breeding centers for vultures.
- Since vultures are slow breeders and have long lifespans, any increase in the annual mortality rate above 5% could threaten their survival.
- In 2006, the use of diclofenac as a veterinary drug was banned and later gazetted in 2008.
- The ban prompted the recommendation to use the safer drug, meloxicam, as an alternative.
- Despite this progress, other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ketoprofen and aceclofenac, still pose a threat to vultures.
Threats posed by Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac to vultures
- Conversion to Toxic Metabolites: When cattle or other livestock are treated with ketoprofen or aceclofenac, these drugs can be metabolized and converted into toxic compounds, such as diclofenac. Diclofenac is extremely harmful to vultures and can cause kidney failure and death when they consume the carcasses of treated animals.
- Slow Metabolism in Vultures: Vultures have a slow metabolism compared to other birds, which makes them more susceptible to the harmful effects of these drugs. The accumulation of toxic metabolites in their bodies over time can lead to severe health issues and fatalities.
- Scavenging Behavior: Vultures are obligate scavengers, meaning they primarily feed on carrion (dead animals). However, this scavenging behavior makes them highly vulnerable to ingesting contaminated animal remains.
Challenges in Implementation
- Conflicting Situations on the Ground: One of the key challenges in implementing the ban is the presence of conflicting situations on the ground. While many experts and organizations support the ban to protect vultures, there may be opposing views from stakeholders who have vested interests in the use of these drugs.
- Role of State and Central Governments: While the ban decision comes from the central government, it is essential to observe how the state and central governments collaborate to enforce the prohibition effectively.
- Immediate Implementation and Awareness: The ban has been introduced without a specified date for implementation, making it an immediate measure. This calls for swift action from state authorities and relevant agencies to ensure that the ban is followed promptly.
- Potential Opposition to the Ban: Given the significance of livestock and agriculture in India, there may be opposition to the ban from certain quarters, who rely on the use of Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac for animal treatment.
- Extending Safety Measures to Other Raptors: Ensuring the safety of drugs for other raptors might require additional research and testing to understand potential risks and adverse effects on these birds.
Way Forward
- Strengthen Enforcement: Collaborate closely between state and central governments to ensure effective enforcement of the ban. Implement regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance to deter violations.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Conduct comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate veterinarians, farmers, drug suppliers, and the public about the ban’s importance for vulture conservation.
- Monitor and Evaluate Impact: Set up a robust monitoring system to assess the ban’s effectiveness in curbing drug usage and its impact on vulture populations.
- Research and Safe Alternatives: Explore safer alternatives to Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac for veterinary use that do not harm vultures or the environment.
- Extend Safety Measures to Other Raptors: Conduct studies to determine the safety of drugs for other raptor species and consider their conservation needs in regulatory measures.
- International Collaboration: Engage in international collaborations to share knowledge and experiences in vulture conservation and protect these birds globally
Conclusion
- The ban on ketoprofen and aceclofenac marks a positive development in vulture conservation efforts in India. To ensure success, immediate action is required, and public awareness should be raised. The collective efforts of the government, experts, and stakeholders are essential to safeguard India’s vultures and preserve their ecological importance
Also read:
Efforts for Vulture Conservation
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