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Type: Prelims Only

  • First Human Case of Avian H5N2 Infection

    Why in the News?

    • The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the death of a Mexican resident due to bird flu, marking the first confirmed case of human infection with the H5N2 variant.
      • This H5N2 strain is different from another bird flu variety-H5N1 which infected people in America recently.

    What is Avian Influenza A (H5N2)?

    • Avian Influenza A (H5N2) is a subtype of the influenza A virus that primarily circulates among birds but can infect humans under certain circumstances.
    • Human infections typically result from direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, showcasing the zoonotic nature of the virus.

    Symptoms of H5N2

    • Infection of H5N2 may cause mild to severe upper respiratory tract infections and can be fatal.
    • Conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis and encephalopathy have also been reported.

    Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols

    • Laboratory Diagnosis: The identification of avian influenza in humans necessitates laboratory testing to confirm the presence of the virus.
    • WHO Guidance: The World Health Organization periodically updates technical protocols, such as RT-PCR methods, to enhance the detection of zoonotic influenza.
    • Treatment Strategies: Antiviral medications, notably neuraminidase inhibitors like oseltamivir and zanamivir, demonstrate efficacy in reducing viral replication duration and improving survival prospects for afflicted individuals.

    Influenza A Viruses

    • The alphanumeric codes of H and N are used to subdivide the viruses according to what kinds of proteins are on the surface of the virus based on 2 types:
    1. Hemagglutinin (HA) 
    2. Neuraminidase (NA)
    • There are 18 known HA subtypes and 11 known NA subtypes.
    • In birds, 16 HA and 9 NA subtypes have been identified. (Two additional subtypes, H17N10 and H18N11, have been identified in bats.)
    • Many different combinations of HA and NA proteins are possible.
    • For example, an “A(H7N2) virus” designates an influenza A virus subtype that has an HA 7 protein and an NA 2 protein.
    • Similarly, an “A(H5N1)” virus has an HA 5 protein and an NA 1 protein.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news concerning which one of the following diseases?

    (a) AIDS

    (b) Bird flu

    (c) Dengue

    (d) Swine flu

  • Two bird sanctuaries of Bihar added to Ramsar List

    Why in the News?

    Two wetlands in Bihar, Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries, have been added to the global list of wetlands of international importance under the “Ramsar Convention”, bringing India’s total Ramsar sites to 82.

    Do you know?

    • Currently, the highest number of such sites is in the UK (175) followed by Mexico (144).
    • The number of Indian sites on the list has increased from 26 to 82 in the last ten years, of which 40 have been added in the last three years.

    About Nagi-Nakti Wetland

    • These wetlands, situated in Bihar’s Jamui district within the Jhajha forest range, are man-made reservoirs nestled amid dry deciduous forests and hills.
    • Both sanctuaries were developed as man-made reservoirs, primarily for irrigation purposes, through the construction of dams.
    • These wetlands host a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 150 species of birds, mammals, fish, aquatic plants, reptiles, and amphibians.

    Nakti Bird Sanctuary:

    • It was developed primarily for irrigation through the construction of the Nakti dam.
    • In 1984, the wetland was designated as a bird sanctuary, highlighting its importance as a wintering habitat for several migratory species, with over 20,000 birds congregating during winter months.
    • This includes one of the largest congregations of red-crested pochard in the Indo-Gangetic plain.

    Nagi Bird Sanctuary:

    • It was, on the other hand, created by the damming of the Nagi River, which enabled the gradual formation of water bodies with clear water and aquatic vegetation.
    • Overall, the wetland and its fringes provide habitat for over 75 bird species, 33 fish, and 12 aquatic plants.
    • Notably, the site hosts one of the largest congregations of bar-headed geese in the Indo-Gangetic plain.

    Ecological Significance

    • Migratory Bird Haven: The sanctuaries serve as critical wintering habitats for numerous migratory bird species, attracting over 20,000 birds during the winter months.
    • Species Diversity: Nagi and Nakti sanctuaries support a rich biodiversity, including over 75 bird species, 33 fish species, and 12 aquatic plant species.
    • Bar-headed Geese Congregation: Notably, the wetlands host one of the largest gatherings of bar-headed geese on the Indo-Gangetic plain, highlighting their importance as migratory bird habitats.

    Back2Basics: Ramsar Convention

    Explanation
    Purpose International treaty aimed at conserving and promoting the sustainable use of wetlands.
    Establishment Established on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    Key Components
    • Identifying and designating wetlands of international importance.
    • Ensuring their effective management.
    • Promoting international cooperation for wetland conservation and sustainable use.
    9 Criteria for Sites Declaration
    1. A site should contain representative, rare, or unique wetland types.
    2. It should support vulnerable, endangered, or endemic species.
    3. It should be a habitat for waterfowl.
    4. It should have significant ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological, or hydrological features.
    5. It should support scientific research and biodiversity conservation.
    6. It should provide essential services such as flood control, water purification, and groundwater recharge.
    7. It should have cultural, recreational, or spiritual value for local communities.
    8. It should support sustainable livelihoods for human communities.
    9. It should be at risk or face human-induced threats that require international cooperation for conservation.
    Participating Countries 171 contracting parties (countries) as of September 2021.
    India and Ramsar Convention  The first Ramsar Site in India, the Chilika Lake in Odisha, was designated in 1981.
    Ramsar Secretariat The convention is administered by the Ramsar Secretariat, based in Gland, Switzerland.
    World Wetlands Day
    • February 2nd of each year.
    • To raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and commemorate the adoption of the Ramsar Convention.
    Montreux Record Register of wetland sites on the List of Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention that require special attention.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply?

    (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.

    (b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres of the edge of the wetland

    (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed

    (d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
    2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
    3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 3

  • Blaze Star: A Celestial Phenomenon in the Making

    Why in the News?

    • NASA predicts the dim star T Coronae Borealis will become visible to the naked eye by September 2024, reaching brightness comparable to Polaris.
      • A dim star known as the “Blaze Star,” officially designated as T Coronae Borealis (T CrB), located 3,000 light-years from our solar system, is set to become visible to the naked eye for the first time since 1946.

    About the Blaze Star

    • The Blaze Star located in the constellation Corona Borealis, also known as the “Northern Crown,” is situated between the constellations of Bootes and Hercules.
    • To locate Corona Borealis, begin by identifying prominent stars in the summer night sky, such as those of the Big Dipper.

    Understanding the Blaze Star Phenomenon

    • The Blaze Star is a rare recurrent nova, a binary star system comprising a cool, red giant star and a smaller, hotter white dwarf star in orbit around each other.
    • Every 80 years, the red giant transfers matter onto the white dwarf, triggering explosive phenomena.
    • Historical observations suggest the Blaze Star is on the brink of another explosion, following similar brightness patterns observed before previous eruptions in 1866 and 1946.
      • Precursor Signs: The star has been steadily brightening since 2015, followed by a visible dimming in March 2023, mirroring past eruption precursors.

    Implications for Observation

    • Peak Visibility: During its brightness peak, the Blaze Star is expected to be visible to the naked eye for several days, extending to just over a week with stargazing binoculars or a small telescope.
    • Astronomical Insights: The impending eruption offers a unique opportunity for astronomers to observe and study this celestial event, providing valuable insights into stellar evolution and dynamics.

    PYQ:

    [2013]  Consider the following phenomena

    1. Size of the sun at dusk

    2. Colure of the sun at dawn

    3. Moon being visible at dawn

    4. Twinkle of stars in the sky

    5. Polestar being visible in the sky

    Which of the above are optical illusions?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 3, 4 and 5

    (c) 1, 2 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 5

  • Neo: A Novel Protein in Bacterial Defense

    Why in the News?

    “Klebsiella pneumoniae” bacteria might employ a newly discovered protein called “Neo” to halt bacteriophage infections.

    About Neo Protein

    • Discovery Details: Researchers, led by Stephen Tang and Samuel Sternberg, reported the discovery of Neo in a 2023 preprint paper on bioRxiv, while investigating Klebsiella pneumoniae.
    • Neo’s Defense Strategy: Bacteria employ diverse immune systems to fend off viral infections, including defense-associated reverse transcriptase (DRT) systems, which Neo is a part of.
      • DRT-2 System: This system involves de novo gene synthesis via rolling-circle reverse transcription (RT) of a non-coding RNA (ncRNA).
      • Operational Process: In uninfected cells, the ncRNA and RT enzyme catalyze the synthesis of a repetitive single-stranded cDNA.
      • Activation by Phage: Phage presence triggers the synthesis of the second-strand cDNA, resulting in long double-stranded DNA.
      • Role of Neo Protein: The translation of this double-strand cDNA produces the Neo protein, which induces potent growth arrest (cell dormancy), thereby protecting the bacterial population from phage proliferation.

    Biotechnological and Medical Implications

    • Potential Applications: Neo represents a promising tool for controlling viral infections, holding significance in both biotechnology and medicine.
    • Evolutionary Connections: Neo’s discovery sheds light on the shared evolutionary history and functional mechanisms of retroelements in the human genome and bacterial reverse transcriptases.
    • Technological Influence: Bacterial reverse transcriptases, predecessors of their eukaryotic counterparts, share analogous mechanisms and have revolutionized molecular biology research methods.

    What is Reverse Transcriptase?

    • Reverse transcription, the conversion of RNA into DNA, is facilitated by the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
    • Discovered by Howard Temin and David Baltimore in 1970, reverse transcriptase has transformed molecular biology research, particularly in studying RNA viruses like HIV.
      • Practical Applications: Reverse transcriptase is instrumental in gene cloning, PCR techniques, genome analysis, and viral load detection in diagnostics, such as the case of SARS-2, aiding in virus surveillance, healthcare management, and vaccine development efforts.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] What is Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in the news?

    (a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing.

    (b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients.

    (c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant.

    (d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops.

  • Netherlands becomes India’s 3rd Largest Export Destination in 2023-24

    PC: LiveMinit

    Why in the News?

    During fiscal year 2023-24, the Netherlands emerged as India’s third-largest export market, with a trade surplus expanding to $17.4 billion.

    India’s Trade with the Netherlands

    • Key Export Commodities: Notable export items to the Netherlands include petroleum products ($14.29 billion), electrical goods, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, showcasing robust growth in these sectors.
    • Continual Expansion: India’s exports to the Netherlands have steadily risen by approximately 3.5% to reach $22.36 billion in 2023-24, illustrating sustained growth momentum.
    • Mutual Investment: The Netherlands is a significant investor in India, with foreign direct investment (FDI) amounting to about $5 billion during the last fiscal.
    • Corporate Presence: Over 200 Dutch companies, including industry giants like Philips, Akzo Nobel, and KLM, operate in India, while Indian firms like TCS, HCL, and Sun Pharmaceuticals have a substantial presence in the Netherlands.

    Shift in Trade Dynamics

    • Outpacing Major Destinations: The Netherlands has surpassed traditional trade partners such as the U.K., Hong Kong, Bangladesh, and Germany in terms of India’s export focus.
    • Long-term Growth: Export figures have shown consistent growth since 2000-01 when India’s exports to the Netherlands were a mere $880 million.

    Significance: Gateway to Europe

    • Strategic Positioning: The Netherlands’ efficient ports and extensive connectivity with the EU via roads, railways, and waterways have positioned it as a vital gateway to the European market.
    • Strong Ties: Diplomatic relations between India and the Netherlands, established in 1947, have evolved into robust political, economic, and commercial partnerships.

    India’s Trade Dynamics

    Export Figures:

    • Forecasted to reach approximately US$776.68 billion in FY 2023–24.
    • Slightly surpassed the US$776.40 billion recorded in the previous fiscal year.
    • Concluded with the highest monthly merchandise exports of US$41.68 billion in March 2024.

    Import Figures:

    • Total goods imports decreased by 5.66 percent to US$675.44 billion.

    Global Merchandise Export Ranking:

    • India advanced from 19th to 17th place.
    • Marginal increase in share from 1.70 percent in 2014 to 1.82 percent in 2023.
    • Exported to 115 countries out of a total of 238 destinations during FY 2023-24.

    Key Export Markets:

    • Include the US, UAE, Netherlands, China, UK, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Bangladesh, Germany, and Italy.
    • Represent 46.5 percent of India’s export portfolio.

    Diversification Strategy:

    • Focus on expanding beyond traditional sectors like iron ore and agricultural commodities.
    • Target sectors include electronics, pharmaceuticals, engineering products, and food items.
    • Plan to introduce goods such as alcoholic beverages, prepared meals, confectioneries, jackfruit, and bananas.
    • Emphasis on market research and analysis for product customization.

    Trade Partners:

    • China emerged as India’s largest trading partner, surpassing the US.
    • Bilateral trade with China totalled US$118.4 billion in FY 2023-24.
    • Bilateral trade with the US amounted to US$118.3 billion in the same period.
    • India’s exports to China increased by 8.7 percent in FY24, driven by various sectors.
    • Imports from China rose moderately, totalling US$101.7 billion.

    (Source of Data: Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce)

    PYQ:

    [2013] The balance of payments of a country is a systematic record of:

    (a) All import and export transactions of a country during a given period of time, normally a year.

    (b) Goods exported from a country during a year.

    (c) Economic transaction between the governments of one country to another.

    (d) Capital movements from one country to another.

     

  • Tele MANAS cell for Armed Forces

    Why in the News?

    • The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster collaboration in operating a special cell of Tele MANAS.
      • This collaboration, spanning two years, aims to establish a pilot project at the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune.

    Suicides and Fratricides in Armed Forces: A Global Issue

    • As per information given in Parliament in April 2022, there were two cases of fratricide each year from 2019 to 2021 and one case in 2021.
    • In an older reply in Rajya Sabha on suspected suicide cases in the Army, the Government informed that during the years 2016 to 2018 there were 104, 75 and 80 cases, respectively.
    • A 2018 study correlated extended deployment to a 15% increased suicide risk in the U.S. military, the U.S. Department of Defence recorded 503 suicides among active-duty personnel in 2019.
    • Common reasons that forces an individual to take extreme steps are:
      • Family issues,
      • Family separation,
      • Prolonged deployment in difficult areas,
      • Continuous exposure to hazardous situations,
      • Traumas originated in Counter Insurgency or Counter Terrorism operations and
      • Wide range of Human Resource management issues.
    • Preventive Measures: The Army in its latest advisory issued in August 2023 stated that officers and religious teachers – at least one Pandit, Maulvi, Granthi or Pastor – are posted in each unit and selected other ranks are being trained on the nuances of counselling.

    What is the Tele MANAS Initiative?

    • Tele MANAS, or Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking across States, stands as India’s National Tele Mental Health Programme.
    • It is envisioned as the digital extension of the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP).
    • Its announcement came in the Union Budget of 2022.
    • The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) serves as the nodal agency overseeing its implementation.
    • The primary aim is to ensure universal access to equitable, accessible, affordable, and high-quality mental health care through round-the-clock tele-mental health services.
    • The International Institute of Information Technology, Bengaluru, serves as the technology partner.
    • The nodal centre for Tele MANAS operations is located at NIMHANS, Bengaluru.
    • The National Health Systems Resource Centre operates within the health system domain.
    • Helpline numbers for assistance are 14416 and 18008914416.
    • The implementation structure comprises two tiers:
    1. Tier 1: Consists of State Tele MANAS cells comprising trained counsellors and mental health specialists,
    2. Tier 2: Comprises resources from the District Mental Health Program (DMHP) and medical colleges.

    Reach and Impact

    • Nationwide Presence: Currently, 51 operational Tele MANAS cells operate across all 36 States and UTs, delivering services in 20 diverse languages.
    • Remarkable Response: Since its inception in October 2022, Tele MANAS has received over 10 lakh calls and manages a daily average of more than 3,500 calls.

    National Mental Health Programme (NMHP):

    • The NMHP was launched by the Government of India in 1982.
    • It was initiated to address the significant burden of mental disorders in the population.
    • Mental disorders affect approximately 6-7% of the population in India.
      • Objectives of NMHP: Ensuring the availability and accessibility of minimum mental healthcare to all, particularly the vulnerable and underprivileged sections of the population.
    • As part of NMHP, the District Mental Health Program (DMHP) was introduced in 1996 during the IX Five Year Plan based on the ‘Bellary Model’:
      • The Bellary Model emphasizes the importance of early detection, short-term training for physicians, and health worker training in identifying individuals with mental health issues.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society?

  • [pib] CSIR’s PI-CHeCK Project

    Why in the News?

    • The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) celebrated the completion of the initial phase of its groundbreaking health monitoring project, ‘Phenome India-CSIR Health Cohort Knowledgebase’ (PI-CHeCK).

    What is Phenome?

    • The human phenome refers to the comprehensive set of observable physical and biochemical traits, behaviours, and characteristics exhibited by an individual as influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
    • It encompasses a wide range of attributes, including but not limited to:
    1. Physical characteristics such as height, weight, eye colour, hair colour, facial features, and body shape.
    2. Biological functions and processes like metabolism, hormone levels, blood pressure, and immune response.
    3. Behavioral traits include personality traits, cognitive abilities, temperament, and mental health conditions.
    4. Disease susceptibility and health outcomes, such as the presence or absence of genetic disorders, chronic illnesses, and response to medical treatments.
    5. Environmental factors such as diet, exercise habits, exposure to toxins, socioeconomic status, and cultural influences.

    What is the PI-CHeCK Project?

    • PI-CHeCK launched on Dec 7, 2023, assesses risk factors for cardio-metabolic disorders in the Indian population.
    • ‘Phenome India’ health check-up camp targets CSIR employees, pensioners, and spouses across 17 states, and 24 cities.
    • Nearly 10,000 volunteers provide comprehensive health data.

    Objectives:

    • Developing India-Specific Algorithms: The project highlights the necessity of developing risk prediction algorithms tailored to India’s diverse genetic and lifestyle landscape, as existing algorithms may not accurately represent the Indian population.
    • Advancing Precision Medicine: CSIR’s commitment to advancing precision medicine is evident through the project’s focus on Predictive, Personalized, Participatory, and Preventive healthcare.
    • Catalyzing Nationwide Initiatives: By generating a comprehensive phenome database, PI-CHeCK aims to catalyze similar initiatives nationwide, ensuring more accurate risk prediction algorithms for India’s diverse population.

    PYQ:

    [2021] “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.

    [2018] Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain.

    [2011] Aspartame is an artificial sweetener sold in the market. It consists of amino acids and provides calories like other amino acids. Yet, it is used as a low-calorie sweetening agent in food items. What is the basis of this use?

    (a) Aspartame is as sweet as table sugar, but unlike table sugar, it is not readily oxidized in human body due to the lack of requisite enzymes.

    (b) When aspartame is used in food processing, the sweet taste remains, but it becomes resistant to oxidation.

    (c) Aspartame is as sweet as sugar, but after ingestion into the body, it is converted into metabolites that yield no calories.

    (d) Aspartame is several times sweeter than table sugar, hence food items made with small quantities of aspartame yield fewer calories on oxidation.

  • [pib] FSSAI Directive on Fruit Juices

    Why in the News?

    • FSSAI has mandated the immediate removal of any claims stating ‘100% fruit juices’ from labels and advertisements of reconstituted fruit juices by all Food Business Operators (FBOs).
      • FBOs must utilize existing pre-printed packaging materials before September 1, 2024, to comply with the directive.

    Compliance Guidelines on Fruit Juices

    • Products falling under this standard must be labelled as per the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020.
    • The term “reconstituted” must be specified in the ingredient list for juices reconstituted from concentrate.
    • Additionally, if the product contains added nutritive sweeteners exceeding 15 gm/kg, it must be labelled as ‘Sweetened juice’.

    Issues with such ‘Sweetened juice’

    • Misleading Marketing Practices: FSSAI has observed numerous FBOs inaccurately labelling various types of reconstituted fruit juices as 100% fruit juices.
    • Regulatory Assessment: Upon evaluation, FSSAI determined that such claims are misleading, especially when the major ingredient is water, and the primary ingredient is present in limited concentrations or when the juice is reconstituted using water and fruit concentrates or pulp.

    About Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

    • The FSSAI is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
    • It was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, of 2006, which consolidates various acts and orders that have hitherto handled food-related issues in various ministries and departments.
    • FSSAI is responsible for protecting and promoting public health through the regulation and supervision of food safety.

    Functions of FSSAI include:

    • Setting Standards: FSSAI sets standards for food products and regulates their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import, to ensure that food items are safe for consumption.
    • Licensing and Registration: FSSAI grants licenses and registrations to food businesses based on their compliance with food safety standards and regulations.
    • Inspections and Monitoring: FSSAI conducts inspections, surveillance, and monitoring of food products and food businesses to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
    • Awareness and Education: FSSAI works towards creating awareness about food safety and hygiene among food businesses and consumers. It provides information and education programs to promote safe food handling practices.
    • Research and Development: FSSAI undertakes research and development activities related to food safety and standards.

    Health Awareness Initiatives by FSSAI

    • “Heart Attack Rewind”: This is FSSAI’s inaugural mass media campaign, designed to support its goal of eliminating trans-fat from India by 2022.
    • FSSAI-CHIFSS Collaboration: FSSAI has partnered with the CII-HUL Initiative on Food Safety Sciences to foster collaborations between industry, the scientific community, and academia to enhance food safety.
    • State Food Safety Index (SFSI): Developed by FSSAI, the SFSI evaluates states’ performance on five key parameters of food safety: Human Resources and Institutional Data, Compliance, Food Testing Infrastructure and Surveillance, Training & Capacity Building, and Consumer Empowerment.
    • Eat Right India Movement: This is a joint initiative by the Government of India and FSSAI aimed at revolutionizing the country’s food system to ensure safe, healthy, and sustainable food for all citizens.
    • Eat Right Station Certification: FSSAI awards this certification to railway stations that meet the benchmarks outlined in the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, ensuring the provision of safe and wholesome food to passengers.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.
    2. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is under the charge of Director General of Health Services in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • What is Greedflation?

    Why in the News?

    Political campaigns highlight inequality in India. Accusations suggest billionaires amass wealth through monopolistic control, dictating prices and suppressing real wages.

    Monopoly Power and Economic Dynamics

    • Monopoly Influence: Billionaires often amass wealth through monopolistic control, enabling them to dictate prices and suppress real wages.
    • Consumption Conundrum: Higher mark-ups under monopolies lead to reduced real wages and diminished consumption power, hindering economic growth and investment.
    • Greedflation Impact: The phenomenon of “Greedflation,” where companies raise prices to bolster profit margins amidst multiple demand-and-supply shocks, exacerbates inflationary pressures, particularly observed in developed economies.

    So what is Greedflation?

    • Definition: Greedflation, in essence, signifies that corporate greed is driving inflation, rather than the traditional wage-price spiral, leading to a profit-price spiral.
    • Corporate Exploitation: Companies exploit inflation by significantly raising prices, surpassing the need to cover increased costs, thereby maximizing profit margins and perpetuating inflation.
    • Profit-Price Spiral: Unlike the wage-price spiral, it involves companies exploiting inflation by excessively raising prices to maximize profit margins, triggering a cycle of inflation.

    Illustrative Scenario

    • Crisis Dynamics: During crises such as natural disasters or pandemics, businesses often raise prices due to increased input costs.
    • Exploitative Practices: However, some businesses exploit the situation by engaging in excessive profit-making through significantly inflated price mark-ups.

    Impact of Greedflation

    • Disproportionate Impact: Greedflation disproportionately affects low-income and middle-class individuals, diminishing their consumption and lowering living standards.
    • Wealth Disparities: While benefiting the wealthy by inflating asset values, it widens the wealth gap and exacerbates income inequality.
    • Market Instability: Sharp price increases and speculative activities driven by greed can create bubbles and unsustainable market conditions, heightening the risk of financial market crashes and crises.

    Global Implications

    • Divergent Policies: Inflationary pressures from greedflation may lead to divergent policy responses among nations.
    • Trade and Geopolitical Risks: Conflicting strategies to combat inflation can exacerbate global imbalances, trade tensions, and geopolitical conflicts as countries prioritize their interests and competitiveness.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct?

    (a) Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only.

    (b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation.

    (c) Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation.

    (d) Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation.

  • RobiNOweed: ICAR’s Herbicide-Tolerant Basmati Variety

    Why in the News? 

    • Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) launched India’s inaugural non-GM herbicide-tolerant Basmati rice varieties for commercial farming, ensuring improved weed control, cost-effectiveness, and addressing water scarcity and methane emissions in cultivation.

    About the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

    • ICAR is an autonomous organisation under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
    • It is headquartered in New Delhi.
    • ICAR was formerly known as the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research.
    • It was established in 1929 as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 on the basis of the report of the Royal Commission on Agriculture.

    Functions of ICAR:

    • Its primary mandate is to coordinate agricultural education and research in India and provide leadership in agriculture and allied sectors.
    • It is the apex body for coordinating, guiding and managing research and education in agriculture including horticulture, fisheries and animal sciences in the entire country.

    Structure and Organization:

    • ICAR operates under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.
    • It consists of a network of research institutes, national bureaus, project directorates, and agricultural universities across the country.
    • The council is governed by a Governing Body and an Executive Committee, which oversee its functioning and activities.

    Recognition and Awards:

    • ICAR confers prestigious awards, such as: the Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Award, the Borlaug Award, and the Hari Om Ashram Trust Award, to recognize excellence in agricultural research and education.

    About RobiNOweed

    • Dubbed as ‘RobiNOweed,’ these varieties are developed by ICAR-IARI and named as:
    1. Pusa Basmati 1979 and
    2. Pusa Basmati 1985
    • They are tailor-made for farmers employing the direct seeded rice (DSR) method, where weed management is crucial.

    Benefits Offered

    • Effective Weed Management: These new varieties offer an effective solution to weed issues and promote the success of the DSR method, potentially saving up to 33% of the total water requirement.
    • Water Conservation: DSR significantly reduces water usage compared to traditional flooding methods, addressing concerns of water depletion, especially in northwest India.
    • Market Impact: With IARI already holding a dominant 95% share in Basmati exports, these new varieties are expected to further boost production and export.

    Critical Assessment of Herbicide-Tolerant Varieties

    • Weed Management Alternatives: Some scientists argue against the necessity of Ht rice, advocating for eco-friendly weed management methods based on climatic factors.
    • Potential Risks: Concerns arise regarding the limited efficacy of the herbicide, its impact on genetic diversity, and the evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds.
    • Lessons from Past: Lessons from the Bt Cotton experience highlight the risks associated with overreliance on specific agricultural technologies.

    What is the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique?

    • Transplantation Method: In the conventional transplantation method, seeds are sown in nurseries, grown into seedlings, and then transplanted into puddled fields.
    • Direct Seeding: DSR involves directly drilling pre-germinated seeds into the field using tractor-powered machinery.
    • Simplicity and Efficiency: DSR eliminates the need for nursery preparation and transplantation, simplifying the cultivation process.
    • Resource Management: DSR offers benefits such as water savings and reduced labor requirements compared to conventional methods.
    • Higher Requirements: However, DSR requires higher seed quantities and levelled land, posing challenges for adoption.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements:

    1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.
    2. GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.
    3. GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3