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Type: Prelims Only

  • Nobel and other Prizes

    Machine Learning pioneers win Physics Nobel

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Artificial Neural Network, Physics Nobel, 2024

    Why in the News?

    John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, 2024 for their pioneering work that laid the foundation for machine learning and artificial neural network.

    What is Artificial Neural Network?

    • Artificial neural networks are systems inspired by the structure of the brain.
    • In these networks, nodes represent the brain’s neurons, and they influence each other through connections, similar to synapses in the brain.
    • These connections can be made stronger or weaker through training.
    • For instance, connections between nodes with high values can become stronger as the network learns.
    • Since the 1980s, Hopfield and Hinton have been conducting important research on artificial neural networks.

    Significance of their contribution

    • Hinton’s work on the Boltzmann machine and other neural networks helped drive the explosive growth of machine learning.
    • His methods continue to play a significant role in modern AI, enabling technologies like image classification and pattern recognition.

    PYQ:

    [2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?

    1 Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units

    2. Create meaningful short stories and songs

    3. Disease diagnosis

    4. Text-to-Speech Conversion

    5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2, 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    [pib] Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant

    Why in the News?

    Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, in collaboration with other researchers have developed the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant.

    What is the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant?

    • It is a hybrid implant made of metal-based nano-medicine combined with patient-derived blood clotting components.
    • It is designed to reduce localized tumor recurrence after surgery.
    • It uses nanotechnology and autologous fibrin (derived from the patient’s own blood) to enhance post-surgical cancer treatment by providing localized therapy and promoting healing in the tumor bed.

    How does It Work?

    • The implant is created using Nano-Micro-Sera (NMS), which consists of drug and metal-based nanomedicine stabilized by the patient’s own serum protein corona.
    • The hybrid implant is reinforced into autologous fibrin, which quickly bonds with damaged tissue in the tumor bed after surgery.
    • Once the surgical site is closed, the implant delivers localized chemo-phototherapy, triggering immunogenic cell death (ICD).
    • This process activates dendritic cells and T-cells, which boosts the body’s immune response and prevents the recurrence of tumors.

    Significance of the Implant

    • The implant offers an affordable and effective solution for localized post-surgical cancer management, especially for marginalized patients.
    • By using the patient’s own serum proteins and fibrin, the implant ensures personalized treatment, reducing the risk of systemic toxicity.
    • The implant’s design is resource-efficient, making it accessible for bedside fabrication with simple equipment, ensuring wider availability.
    • It has demonstrated superior outcomes in suppressing recurrent breast tumors, and its use could prevent tumor recurrence and reducing the chances of metastasis.

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to the use of nanotechnology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology.

    2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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

    [pib] ‘Humsafar Policy’ for Wayside Amenities along the National Highways

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: 'Humsafar Policy' and its features

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has launched the ‘Humsafar Policy’ in New Delhi to improve travel convenience on National Highways and boost the development of Wayside Amenities.

    About the ‘Humsafar Policy’

    • The Humsafar Policy is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to enhance the convenience and experience of travelers on National Highways (NHs).
    • It focuses on developing Wayside Amenities along highways to provide a range of facilities for highway users, ensuring smooth, safe, and comfortable journeys.
    • The policy also emphasizes environmental sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices like water conservation, solar energy, and waste recycling.

    Features of the Humsafar Policy

    • Wayside Amenities: Includes food courts, fuel stations, EV charging stations, parking, toilets, ATMs, and pharmacies.
    • Standardized Facilities: Ensures well-maintained and hygienic services for commuters.
    • Visibility for Service Providers: Featured on the ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app, with signage space and renewal fee waivers for high-rated providers.
    • Monitoring & Inspection: Regular third-party checks to maintain service quality, with alerts for low-rated facilities.
    • Green Focus: Encourages solar energy, water conservation, and waste recycling.

    Significance

    • Better User Experience: Enhances travel with high-quality facilities.
    • Economic Impact: Creates jobs and supports local communities.
    • Standardization: Ensures consistent quality and accountability.
    • Technological Integration: The ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app gives real-time facility info and allows feedback from users.

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Star Party observed in Ladakh

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Hanle Dark Sky Reserve

    Why in the News?

    Expert astro-photographers and astronomers have gathered at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve from for the second Star Party.

    Star Party and Its Details

    • The Star Party at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is a gathering of amateur astronomers and astro-photographers who travel to Hanle to observe and capture celestial phenomena.
    • It was hosted by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) from and attended by over 45 astronomy enthusiasts from across India.
    • Participants brought their own telescopes and cameras to capture unique celestial events, including faint galaxies, the Zodiacal Light, and the rare sight of Venus casting a shadow.

    About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)

    • The HDSR is a designated area in Changthang region of eastern Ladakh created to control man-made light pollution and protect the naturally dark night skies.
    • It spans approximately 1,073 square kilometers and is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    • Established to promote astronomy and astrophotography, it offers some of the darkest skies in India, ideal for astronomical research.
    • Hanley is also the home to second-highest optical telescope in the world, established in 2001 by IIA.

    Special Features of HDSR and the Surrounding Region

    • High Altitude: Hanle is situated at a high altitude, providing clearer skies with minimal atmospheric interference.
    • Minimal Light Pollution: The region has low light pollution, which makes it perfect for observing faint celestial objects.
    • Dry Climate: The dry weather in the region contributes to excellent visibility, reducing the impact of humidity on astronomical observations.

    Significance of HDSR

    • Astrophotography and Research: The dark skies allow for detailed observation of celestial phenomena and astrophotography, attracting enthusiasts and researchers.
    • Astro-Tourism: The reserve fosters astro-tourism, boosting the local economy by creating jobs for guides and supporting infrastructure.
    • Preservation of Night Skies: It plays a crucial role in preserving the natural darkness of the sky, curbing light pollution in the region.
    • International Attention: The reserve has attracted amateur and professional astronomers from across India and beyond, making it a hub for astronomical events.
    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following phenomena:

    1. Light is affected by gravity.
    2. The Universe is constantly expanding.
    3. Matter warps its surrounding space-time.

    Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media?

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

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  • Policy Wise: India’s Power Sector

    CERC steps in to tackle sudden Surges in Power Demand

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC)

    Why in the News?

    India’s power regulator, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), has appointed a Single Member Bench to assess the challenges of a sudden surge in power demand.

    Projected Power Demand for October 2024

    • India’s projected peak power demand for October 2024 is 230 Gigawatts (GW).
    • After factoring in Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) losses, the demand is expected to rise to 232.2 GW.
    • To meet this demand, an additional 12.60 GW of generation resources is required.

    Concerns over Power System Operation:

    • The steep rise in electricity demand, without enough generation sources, could pose a risk to power system operations.
    • The Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs) and State Load Despatch Centres (SLDCs) are responsible for conducting operational planning to manage this surge, especially due to seasonal variations.

     

    About Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC):

    Details
    Establishment It was constituted on July 24, 1998, under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998, and later brought under the Electricity Act, 2003.
    Type Statutory body with quasi-judicial status under Section 76 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
    Ministry Functions under the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
    Primary Functions – Regulates tariffs of power generation companies (owned/controlled by the Government of India).
    – Regulates interstate transmission tariffs.
    – Issues licenses for interstate transmission and trading.
    Key Role in Tariff Evolution – Introduced a Two-Part Tariff in 1992.
    – Introduced Availability Based Tariff (ABT) in 2000 to improve grid stability.
    Advisory Role – Contributes to National Electricity Policy and Tariff Policy.
    – Promotes competition, efficiency, and investment in the electricity sector.
    Licensing – Issues licenses for electricity transmission and interstate trading.
    Grid Operation Standards Enforces standards under the Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC) to improve grid stability and power quality.
    Dispute Resolution Adjudicates disputes involving power generation companies and transmission licensees.
    Collaboration Signed a MoU with the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in 2009 for enhancing power market regulation and grid reliability.
    First Chairman Mr. S.L. Rao (1998–2001).

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Which one of the following is the purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?

    (a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy

    (b) Providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018

    (c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time

    (d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Maldives

    India signs $750-mn currency swap deal with forex-starved Maldives

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: SAARC Currency Swap Framework

    Why in the News?

    The RBI has announced a Currency Swap Agreement with the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) under the SAARC Currency Swap Framework 2024-27.

    India’s Financial Support to Maldives

    • India will extend financial support to the Maldives, providing $400 million under the US Dollar/Euro Swap Window.
    • Additionally, ₹30 billion (approximately $357 million) will be made available under the INR Swap Window.
    • The Currency Swap Agreement will remain valid until June 18, 2027.

    About SAARC Currency Swap Framework:

    Details
    Objective To provide short-term liquidity support to SAARC member countries during financial crises or instability.
    Administered by Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
    Launch Year 2012
    Countries Involved All SAARC members: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
    Facility Swap arrangement in US Dollar, Euro, or Indian Rupee.
    Interest Rate Based on the currency borrowed, includes a margin over international benchmark rates.
    Purpose To address the balance of payment crises and provide financial stability.
    Recent Users Sri Lanka, Maldives

     

    Maldives’ Debt Situation

    • The Maldives’ debt is now estimated at 110% of its gross domestic product (GDP), with increasing risks of defaulting on its sukuk (Islamic bond).
    • A failure to make payments would mark the world’s first default of an Islamic bond.
      • Fitch Ratings estimates that the Maldives’ external debt obligations will reach $557 million by 2025 and exceed $1 billion by 2026.
      • The country’s foreign reserves stood at just $437 million at the end of August, only enough to cover one-and-a-half months of imports.
      • India provided a $50 million lifeline to the Maldives to help avoid this outcome.
    • The Export-Import Bank of India is owed nearly $400 million, while the Export-Import Bank of China is owed about $530 million as of last year.

    Significance of India’s Assistance

    • Debt Relief: India’s financial aid, including a $50 million lifeline, would help the Maldives avoid debt default and stabilize its economy.
    • Geopolitical Influence: With this, India can counter China’s influence in the Maldives, strengthening its strategic position in the Indian Ocean.
    • Diplomatic Reset: India’s support strengthens diplomatic relations, aiding the Maldives in debt restructuring and global partnerships.

    PYQ:

    [2019] In the context of India, which of the following factors is/are contributor/contributors to reducing the risk of a currency crisis?

    1. The foreign currency earnings of India’s IT sector
    2. Increasing the government expenditure
    3. Remittances from Indians abroad

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

    EnviStats India 2024

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: EnviStats India 2024 Report and its highlights

    Why in the News?

    • The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the “EnviStats India 2024: Environment Accounts” Report.

    What is the EnviStats India 2024 Report?

    • The EnviStats India 2024 Report, released by the MoSPI, is the 7th consecutive publication.
    • It compiles environmental-economic accounts based on the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) Framework.
    • This framework provides a global standard for integrating environmental data with economic statistics, offering insights into the country’s natural resources, ecosystems, and environmental sustainability efforts.

    Key Highlights:

    Details
    Protected Areas (SDG 13 & SDG 15) – 72% increase in the number of Protected Areas (2000-2023)
    – 16% increase in the area of Protected Areas, reflecting biodiversity conservation efforts.
    Mangrove Cover (SDG 13 & SDG 15) – 8% increase in mangrove cover (2013-2021), highlighting positive growth in coastal ecosystem protection.
    Ocean Accounts (SDG 14: Life below Water) – Introduced for the first time, covering the extent and condition of ocean ecosystems.
    Energy Use & Physical Asset Accounts (SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy & SDG 13: Climate Action) – Includes Physical Asset Accounts and Physical Supply and Use Tables for Energy, aligned with SEEA-Energy Framework, and data from ministries like Coal and Petroleum.
    Soil Nutrient Index (SDG 2: Zero Hunger) – Updated data on Soil Nutrient Index based on the Soil Health Card 2023-24, reflecting soil health and agricultural sustainability.
    Biodiversity & Species Richness (SDG 15: Life on Land) – Data on faunal and floral diversity, including endangered species like Leopards and Snow leopards, connecting to biodiversity conservation.

    Policy Recommendations  

    The EnviStats India 2024 Report suggests several policy directions based on its findings:

    • Biodiversity Protection: Strengthen community-led conservation and expand protection of critical ecosystems.
    • Ocean Ecosystem Management: Use Ocean Accounts for sustainable marine resource management and pollution control.
    • Soil Health: Encourage sustainable farming practices and better soil management, leveraging Soil Health Cards for improved productivity.
    • Integrated Planning: Focus on species conservation, habitat restoration, and genetic conservation through data-driven planning.

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Who was Rani Durgavati?

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Rani Durgavati and her contemporaries

    durgavati

    Why in the News?

    Madhya Pradesh CM chaired a meeting in honour of the 16th century tribal queen Rani Durgavati on her 500th birth anniversary.

    Rani Durgavati (1524-1564)

    • Rani Durgavati was born in 1524 in the Chandela dynasty of Mahoba (present-day Uttar Pradesh).
    • She married Dalpat Shah, son of Gond King Sangram Shah of the Garha-Katanga kingdom.
    • After her husband’s death in 1550, she ruled the kingdom as regent for her young son, Bir Narayan.
    • Her role against the Mughals:
      • Rani Durgavati expanded her kingdom and ruled with prosperity, shifting her capital to Chauragarh for strategic advantage.
      • In 1564, the Mughal general Asaf Khan, under Emperor Akbar, attacked her kingdom.
      • She led her forces bravely and initially defeated the Mughals in a strategic battle at Narhi.
      • To avoid capture, she sacrificed her life, becoming a symbol of courage and resistance.

    Her contributions

    • Rani Durgavati is remembered for her bravery, administrative skills, and martyrdom.
    • She carried out public works, including the construction of Ranital, a reservoir near Jabalpur.
    • Celebrated as a symbol of self-determination, especially for tribal communities.
    • She is honored in Indian history as a patriotic ruler who resisted Mughal expansion, with various political and cultural tributes dedicated to her legacy.

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Dravidian Style of Architecture

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Features of the Dravidian style of temple architecture

    Why in the News?

    • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has recently finished copying inscriptions at three temples in Thirukurungudi, located in Tirunelveli district.

    About the 3 temples mentioned:

    Nambi Rayar Temple (Thirukoshtiyur Temple)

    • It is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in Thirukoshtiyur, near Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu.
    • It is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred Vishnu temples).
    • It is known for its association with Ramanuja, one of the most important figures in Vaishnavism, who learned the sacred mantra “Ashtakshara” here.
    • The temple has a five-tiered rajagopuram (temple tower) and is built in Dravidian style.

    Thirumalai Nambi Temple (Thirumaliruncholai Temple)

    • It is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in Thirumaliruncholai, also known as Azhagar Kovil, near Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
    • This temple is also one of the 108 Divya Desams.
    • Thirumalai Nambi, who was a saint and a scholar, was closely associated with this temple and served as a priest here.
    • The temple is set in a hilly region and has intricate carvings and sculptures in traditional Dravidian architecture.

    Aniliswarar Temple

    • It is a Shaivite temple located in Anilivandhan Kottai, near Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
    • The temple architecture is traditional with a smaller gopuram (temple tower) compared to the larger, more well-known temples.

    dravid

    About Dravidian Style of Architecture

    Details
    Flourished 8th century to the 13-14th century AD
    Enclosure Temples are enclosed within a compound wall, unlike Nagara temples.
    Notable Features
    • Gopuram (Entrance Gateway): The front wall has an elaborate gateway tower called Gopuram, which serves as the main entrance to the temple complex.
    • Vimana (Main Tower): Vimana or temple tower has a stepped pyramid-like structure that rises geometrically, unlike the curving shikhara in North Indian temples.
    • Temple Tank: It is common to have a large water reservoir or temple tank enclosed within the temple complex.
    Shapes of Temples
    • Square (Kuta or Caturasra)
    • Rectangular (Shala or Ayatasra)
    • Elliptical (Gaja-prishta or Vrittayata)
    • Circular (Vritta)
    • Octagonal (Ashtasra)
    Notable Temples The Pallavas, early builders of Dravidian temples, started with rock-cut temples and later shifted to structural temples.

    • Mahabalipuram: Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla) initiated construction, and Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) built the Shore Temple.
    • The Shore Temple houses three shrines for Shiva and Vishnu.

    The Rajarajeswara or Brahadeeshwarar Temple at Thanjavur, built by Rajaraja Chola in 1009 CE, is the largest and tallest of Indian temples. It features large Gopurams with elaborate sculptures.
    Significance Temples were not only religious centers but also key administrative hubs, controlling large areas of land and resources, especially during the 8th-12th centuries.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the:

    (a) Three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent

    (b) Three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified

    (c) Three main styles of Indian temple architecture

    (d) Three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India

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

    [pib] World Cerebral Palsy Day

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Cerebral palsy

    Why in the News?

    • The World Cerebral Palsy Day was celebrated on October 6 with the theme ‘#UniquelyCP’.
      • It celebrates the uniqueness of individuals living with cerebral palsy by emphasizing that they are not defined by their disability.

    About Cerebral Palsy:

    Details
    Condition A group of neurological disorders affecting movement, muscle tone, and posture.
    Cause Abnormal brain development, usually before birth; can also occur due to injury during birth or early childhood.
    Types – Spastic CP: Stiff muscles, difficulty with movement (most common, 70-80% of cases).
    – Dyskinetic CP: Uncontrolled movements affecting limbs.
    – Ataxic CP: Poor balance and coordination.
    – Mixed CP: Combination of symptoms from different types.
    Symptoms Motor skill difficulties (crawling, walking); Muscle stiffness or looseness; Poor coordination and balance; Speech or swallowing difficulties; Seizures in some cases.
    Diagnosis Physical examination, MRI scans, developmental monitoring (usually diagnosed within first 2 years).
    Risk Factors Premature birth; Low birth weight; Multiple births; Maternal infections; Lack of oxygen during birth.
    Treatment – Physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
    – Medications to reduce muscle stiffness.
    – Surgery in severe cases.
    Life Expectancy Normal life expectancy in many cases, depending on severity and associated complications.
    Prevention Some causes are preventable with proper maternal care, but many are not.
    Policy Support Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme:

    • Coverage: Up to ₹1,00,000/- for treatments, surgeries, and therapies for persons with disabilities.
    • Eligibility: Covers individuals with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities.
    • Annual Renewal: Requires yearly renewal with different fees for BPL and APL categories.
    • Easy Application: Enrollment and claims processed online via Registered Organizations (ROs).

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss.

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