From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cultural meat mechanism
Mains level: Cultural meat, potential advantages and challnges
Central Idea
Cell-based meat, also known as cultured meat, is a promising alternative to traditional meat production that could offer ethical and environmental benefits. However, there are still many unknowns about its safety, nutritional value, and potential health risks that must be addressed.
What is Cell-based meat in short?
Cell-based meat, also known as cultured meat, lab-grown meat, or clean meat, refers to meat produced from animal cells grown in a laboratory, rather than from animals raised and slaughtered for meat.
Steps in the process of producing cell-based meat
Cell isolation: A small sample of cells is taken from an animal through a biopsy, which could be done using a needle or a small incision. The cells are typically muscle cells, which are capable of replicating and forming muscle tissue.
Cell culture: The cells are then placed in a culture medium, which provides the necessary nutrients and growth factors for the cells to multiply and form muscle tissue. The medium typically contains fetal bovine serum (FBS), which is derived from the blood of a cow fetus, but scientists are working to develop plant-based and other alternatives to FBS.
Tissue engineering: The muscle cells are then placed on a scaffold, which can be made of various materials such as collagen or cellulose. The scaffold provides structure and support for the cells to form muscle tissue.
Bioreactor cultivation: The scaffold with the muscle cells is then placed in a bioreactor, which provides a controlled environment for the muscle tissue to grow. The bioreactor can be adjusted to provide the right levels of oxygen, nutrients, and other factors for optimal growth.
Harvesting: Once the muscle tissue has grown to the desired size, it is harvested and processed into the final product, which can take various forms such as ground meat or whole cuts.
Report on cell-based meat market
A 2021 report by United States-based analytics firm Markets and Markets estimated that the global cell-based meat market will reach $214 million by 2027 at a compound annual growth rate of 61.4 per cent.
The report cites increasing concerns over animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and the growing demand for protein-rich foods as key drivers of market growth.
The firm recently received approval from Singapore Food Agency for its ‘chicken bites’ made from cultured meat. It is a significant step toward the future of food.
Advantages of cell-based meat
Environmental sustainability: The production of cell-based meat requires fewer resources such as land, water, and energy compared to traditional meat production. It also produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
For instance:
A recent study published by Switzerland-based research publisher Frontiers mentions cell-based meat could reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 78 per cent and land use by up to 99 per cent.
Another study by ACS Publications said that cell-based meat production could reduce GHG emissions by up to 96 per cent and land use by up to 99 per cent compared to traditional beef production.
Ethical: Cell-based meat production does not involve animal slaughter and hence is considered more humane.
Healthier: Cell-based meat can be produced with lower levels of saturated fat and no antibiotics or hormones. It can also be tailored to provide specific nutritional benefits.
Food security: As the global population continues to increase, traditional meat production may not be able to keep up with the demand for protein. Cell-based meat can provide an alternative source of protein that can be produced in a controlled and sustainable manner.
Pathogen-free: Cell-based meat is produced in a sterile and controlled environment, reducing the risk of pathogen contamination.
For instance: A team of researchers published a report in ScienceDirect in 2018, which says that cell-based meat production could reduce the risk of contamination by bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. This would largely be due to the elimination of animal slaughter and reliance on antibiotics in animal husbandry.
No harmful growth hormones: Lab-grown meats are free of growth hormones as well. Commercial livestock factories use these hormones to expedite the growth of farm animals. Their excess use has harmful health outcomes.
For instance: A European Union-appointed research committee examined six growth hormones used in raising cattle. It concluded that the growth hormones had developmental, neurobiological, genotoxic, and carcinogenic effects.
Potential challenges of cell-based meat
Culture medium: Researchers have yet to develop a culture medium that is completely free of animal-derived components. The use of fetal bovine serum, for example, contradicts the ethical standards of lab-grown meat production.
Health effects: The health effects of consuming cell-based meat are still unknown, and there are concerns about dysregulation and the development of cancerous properties in cultured meat.
Consumer acceptance: Most consumers still prefer natural products and may be hesitant to adopt cell-based meat due to its “unnatural” origins. Educating consumers about the safety, quality, and sustainability of cell-based meat will be important for its commercial success.
Variety: Researchers have not yet developed true muscle with an organized network of blood vessels, which makes it difficult to reproduce the original flavor and taste of meat derived from different species.
Cost: Currently, the production of cell-based meat is more expensive than traditional meat production. As the technology advances and economies of scale are achieved, it is expected that the cost will decrease, but it may take some time before cell-based meat becomes cost-competitive with traditional meat.
Way ahead
Addressing the cost: Currently, cell-based meat is expensive to produce. Research and development should focus on finding ways to reduce production costs and making the final product more affordable.
Improving the taste and texture: While cell-based meat is similar to traditional meat, there are still some differences in taste and texture. Researchers need to work on improving the taste and texture to make it more appealing to consumers.
Increasing variety: Currently, only a limited range of cell-based meats are available. Researchers need to work on producing different types of meat to offer consumers a wider range of options.
Addressing regulatory concerns: As cell-based meat is a new technology, there are still some regulatory concerns that need to be addressed. Governments and regulatory bodies should work with the industry to establish guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety and quality of cell-based meat products.
Educating consumers: Consumer awareness and education are key to the success of cell-based meat. People need to be made aware of the benefits of cell-based meat and be educated about how it is produced and the safety and quality standards that are in place.
Conclusion
Cell-based meat can be the food of the future as it is free of antibiotics, germs, and doesn’t emit GHGs. However, their success depends on developing new cell lines and optimising growth conditions to produce meat that is more similar in texture, flavour, and nutritional composition to traditional meat. The health risks and consumer acceptance of cell-based meats are still largely unknown, so rigorous testing and regulatory oversight are needed to meet high safety standards.
Mains question
Q. Cultured meat is becoming a promising alternative to traditional meat production, however there are also potential risks associated with it. Discuss.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Health Security Index, PM ABHIM and related schemes and facts
Mains level: India's One health approach
Central Idea
The Covid-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in the world’s health systems, including countries ranked high in the Global Health Security Index. It has also provided an opportunity to build stronger health systems to prevent and respond to future pandemics. India’s One Health approach aims to address the health of people, animals, and ecosystems together in order to prevent, prepare, and respond to pandemics.
What is PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM ABHIM)?
PM ABHIM is being rolled out as India’s largest scheme to scale up health infrastructure.
It is aimed at ensuring a robust public health infrastructure in both urban and rural areas, capable of responding to public health emergencies or disease outbreaks.
Key features:
Health and Wellness Centres: In a bid to increase accessibility it will provide support to 17,788 rural HWC in 10 ‘high focus’ states and establish 11,024 urban HWC across the country.
Exclusive Critical Care Hospital Blocks: It will ensure access to critical care services in all districts of the country with over five lakh population through ‘Exclusive Critical Care Hospital Blocks’.
Integrated public health labs: It will also be set up in all districts, giving people access to “a full range of diagnostic services” through a network of laboratories across the country.
Disease surveillance system: The mission also aims to establish an IT-enabled disease surveillance system through a network of surveillance laboratories at block, district, regional and national levels.
Integrated Health Information Portal: All the public health labs will be connected through this Portal, which will be expanded to all states and UTs, the PMO said.
Facts for prelims
What is Global Health Security Index?
The Global Health Security Index is a tool developed to assess a country’s preparedness and ability to respond to outbreaks, pandemics, and other public health emergencies.
It was developed by the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) and the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, in collaboration with The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
The Index ranks 195 countries based on their level of preparedness across six categories: 1. Prevention, 2. Detection and reporting, 3. Rapid response, 4. Health system, 5. Compliance with international norms, and 6. Risk environment.
The Index aims to identify gaps in preparedness and encourage countries to take action to strengthen their health security systems, particularly in the face of global health threats such as pandemics.
The first edition of the Index was published in 2019, and it has since been updated to reflect the evolving global health landscape.
Global Health Security Index 2021: India ranked 66th.
What is mean by One health?
One Health is an interdisciplinary approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
It emphasizes the need for collaboration between various sectors, including public health, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and others, to achieve optimal health outcomes for all.
key components of India’s One Health approach
Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM): The flagship program launched in October 2021 aims to prevent, prepare, and respond to pandemics. It seeks to fill the gaps in health systems at the national and state levels.
National Institute for One Health: The foundation for the institute was laid recently in Nagpur. It will identify hotspots for endemic and emerging zoonotic diseases to contain their spread early on.
Creation of a network of institutions for genomic surveillance: During the COVID-19 pandemic, India created a formidable network of institutions that can identify new pathogens. This can now be complemented with wider testing of wastewater and samples from incoming ships and aircraft.
Coordination between ministries: Several ministries, including health, animal husbandry, forests, and biotechnology, have been brought under the Principal Scientific Advisor to address overlapping mandates and improve coordination.
Expansion of research laboratories: India is expanding its network of research laboratories, which primarily focused on influenza, to cover all respiratory viruses of unknown origin.
Partnerships between research bodies and manufacturers: Indian manufacturers produced vaccines, test kits, therapeutics, masks and other items at very competitive prices, both for India and other countries. The partnerships between research bodies and manufacturers will need to be sustained and enhanced to make India a global hub in the biopharma sector.
Clinical trial network: The clinical trial network set up under the National Biopharma Mission is a positive step toward improving access to affordable new vaccines and drugs in India and around the world.
Ayushman Bharat Digital Health Mission: The mission can facilitate the bringing of private hospitals and clinics under a common platform and placing data in the public domain to augment surveillance in vulnerable areas.
Municipal corporations mandated to provide early alerts: Municipal corporations have been mandated to identify the most vulnerable areas and provide early alerts. For this to be successful, strong partnerships with communities, dairy cooperatives, and the poultry industry will be needed to identify new infections.
What are the potential advantages of the One Health approach?
Holistic approach: The One Health approach looks at the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. By taking a holistic approach, it enables a better understanding of the complex interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health, and can lead to more effective interventions and solutions
Early disease detection: The One Health approach emphasizes the importance of early disease detection in animals, which can serve as an early warning system for potential human outbreaks. This approach can help prevent the spread of diseases and reduce the risk of pandemics.
Better disease surveillance: The One Health approach facilitates better disease surveillance by enabling the sharing of information and resources between different sectors, including human health, animal health, and environmental health.
More effective responses: The One Health approach can lead to more effective responses to outbreaks by facilitating collaboration between different sectors and stakeholders, and ensuring a coordinated response.
Improved animal health: The One Health approach recognizes the importance of animal health and welfare, and can lead to improved animal health through better disease control and prevention measures.
Better environmental management: The One Health approach also recognizes the importance of environmental management and conservation, and can lead to more sustainable environmental practices that benefit both human and animal health.
Conclusion
India’s One Health approach is a positive step towards addressing the health of people, animals, and ecosystems together. The country’s efforts to tackle future pandemics are commendable, and the success of these efforts will be critical. The rise of new pathogens, zoonotic diseases, and antibiotic resistance highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to prevent future pandemics. India’s efforts to build stronger health systems, prevent pandemics, and respond to outbreaks will help protect its citizens and set an example for the world.
Mains Question
Q. What do you understand by mean One Health? Discuss the advantages of One health approach the efforts of India in this direction.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women's Reservation
Mains level: Reservation and Women’s political participation
“The progress of a community can be measured by the degree of progress which women have achieve” ——Babasaheb Ambedkar
Central Idea
Women have broken the glass ceiling of patriarchy in various sectors; however, they still face significant barriers to political participation in India. Despite achieving suffrage early, women hold only 14% of seats in the Parliament even 75 years after independence. It is time to acknowledge the systematic exclusion of women from politics and demand action for creating a more equitable political landscape.
Women’s political participation
Role in India’s fight for independence: Women played a crucial role in India’s fight for independence, by organising demonstrations, leading rallies, and raising awareness.
Representation in Constituent Assembly: There were numerous female representatives in the Constituent Assembly as well.
Women Chief Ministers: Just a decade ago, three of India’s largest States, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, were in the spotlight for being led by women Chief Ministers.
For instance: While Sushma Swaraj led the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Sonia Gandhi served as both President of the Congress Party and Chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance. Also, India had its first woman President, Pratibha Patil around the same time.
The discourse on women’s reservation
Dates back to pre-Independence era: The discourse on women’s reservation in India originates from the pre-Independence era when several women’s organisations demanded political representation for women.
10% of seats in the Legislature: It can be traced back to 1955 when a government appointed committee recommended that 10% of seats in the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies should be reserved for women.
National Perspective Plan for Women (1988): The National Perspective Plan for Women (1988) recommended that 30% of seats in all elected bodies should be reserved for women.
National Policy for the Empowerment of Women: This recommendation was reiterated in the National Policy for the Empowerment of Women, which was adopted in 2001.
33% reservation under Panchayati raj Act: In 1993, the Panchayati Raj Act was amended to reserve 33% of all seats in local government bodies for women, which was a significant step towards women’s political empowerment.
Women’s Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha: The success of this reservation led to demands for similar reservations in other elected bodies; in 1996, the Women’s Reservation Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Bill proposed to reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and State legislative Assemblies for women. However, facing strong opposition from some political parties it lapsed but gained more momentum again in the early 2000s. On March 9, 2010, the Bill was approved in the Rajya Sabha.
Why female representation in Parliament and state legislatures remained low?
Inaccessibility of Institutions: Election records show that most political parties, though pledging in their constitutions to provide adequate representation to women, in practice give far too few party tickets to women candidates. A study found that a large section of women who do get party tickets have family political connections, or are ‘dynastic’ politicians. With normal routes of accessibility limited, such connections are often an entry point for women
Notion of women less likely to win: It is still widely held in political circles that women candidates are less likely to win elections than men, which leads to political parties giving them fewer tickets.
Challenging Structural Conditions: Election campaigns in India are extremely demanding and time-consuming. Women politicians, with family commitments and the responsibilities of child care, often find it difficult to fully participate
Highly vulnerable: Women politicians have been constantly subjected to humiliation, inappropriate comments, abuse and threats of abuse, making participation and contesting elections extremely challenging.
Expensive electoral system: Financing is also an obstacle as many women are financially dependent on their families. Fighting parliamentary elections can be extremely expensive, and massive financial resources are required to be able to put up a formidable contest. Absent adequate support from their parties, women candidates are compelled to arrange for their own campaign financing this is a huge challenge that deters their participation
Internalized patriarchy: A phenomenon known as ‘internalized patriarchy’ where many women consider it their duty to priorities family and household over political ambitions.
Why women participation in law making process is so important?
Political empowerment: Legislative representation is fundamental to political empowerment, enabling participation in the law-making process. Legislatures play a vital role in raising debates and discussions on various aspects of governance and in exacting accountability from the government.
Shows the status of gender parity: Women’s representation in the national parliament is a key indicator of the extent of gender equality in parliamentary politics.
Women bring different skills to politics: According to Political scientist, Anne “women bring different skills to politics and provide role models for future generations; they appeal to justice between sexes.
Facilitates specific interests of women in policy: Their inclusion in politics facilitates representation of the specific interests of women in state policy and creates conditions for a revitalized democracy that bridges the gap between representation and participation.
Highly effective and less likely to be criminal and corrupt: Study found that, women legislators perform better in their constituencies on economic indicators than their male counterparts also women legislators are less likely to be criminal and corrupt, more efficacious, and less vulnerable to political opportunism.
How reservation for women in India can help increase political participation?
Ensuring representation: Reservation of seats for women in legislatures can ensure that women are represented in decision-making bodies. This can help address the issue of underrepresentation of women in politics.
Encouraging women to enter politics: Reservation can provide women with an opportunity to enter politics and participate in the political process. This can help increase the number of women who contest elections and engage in politics.
Building capacity: Reservation can help build the capacity of women politicians by providing them with an opportunity to participate in legislative processes and gain experience in politics. This can help them to become effective leaders and represent the interests of women.
Changing attitudes: Reservation can help change societal attitudes towards women in politics. It can help create a perception that women are capable of holding political office and making important decisions. This can help break down stereotypes and encourage more women to participate in politics.
Promoting gender-sensitive policies: Women politicians can help promote gender-sensitive policies that address issues such as violence against women, gender-based discrimination, and women’s health. Reservation can help ensure that these issues are given due consideration in the legislative process.
Conclusion
Women have been waiting for too long for their right to govern not just for themselves but for the greater common good. Women’s leadership qualities are not hidden from anyone, so the denial of opportunity for political representation represents grave injustice. As India strives to become a Vishwa Guru, we must not overlook the pivotal role women can play in nation building and development. The women’s reservation Bill cannot wait any longer. The Bill must be passed.
Mains Question
Q. Women’s leadership qualities are not hidden from anyone, so the denial of opportunity for political representation represents grave injustice. Comment.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nuclear energy, applications and elements such as Uranium, Thorium,
Mains level: Nuclear power phasing down discussion
Central idea
Germany has recently shut down its last nuclear power plant, and France, the nuclear powerhouse of the world, is struggling to replenish its stock of aging reactors. With solar and wind power becoming more popular globally, the question arises whether nuclear power, with its attendant concerns on cost and safety, remains a relevant option for a fossil-free future, particularly in India. The question here arises is that whether the nuclear power in India should be phased out?
Global outlook for nuclear power
Nuclear power renaissance in Europe and US: A lot has happened in the last two years. Particularly after the Ukraine war, nuclear power is seeing a renaissance, even in Europe and the U.S.
China: China has anyway been surging ahead on nuclear power.
South Korea: South Korea’s new president has changed the energy policy and committed to increasing the share of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix to 30% by 2030.
Japan: Japan, which should have completely shut down reactors after the Fukushima (accident), is restarting them, 10 have been restarted following years of inspection and upgrading safety systems, and I believe that the plan is to start 10 more. Japan had to do that because it was otherwise dependent either on expensive, imported coal or on natural gas (LNG).
UK: Beyond Germany, the U.K. has said that without scaling up nuclear power, it won’t be possible to decarbonise the electricity sector.
Facts for prelims
Element
Deposits in India
Applications
Advantages
Disadvantages
Uranium
Jaduguda, Bhatin, Narwapahar, Banduhurang, Mohuldih and Turamdih in Jharkhand; Lambapur-Peddagattu in Telangana; Gogi in Karnataka; and Tummalapalle in Andhra Pradesh
Electricity generation, nuclear weapons, nuclear medicine
Low carbon emissions, efficient energy production, cost-effective
Radioactive waste management, risk of nuclear accidents, non-renewable
Thorium
Kerala coast, Bihar, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Rajasthan
Electricity generation, nuclear weapons, nuclear medicine
More abundant than uranium, low levels of radioactivity, more efficient energy production than uranium
Requires a breeder reactor, expensive, currently not widely used
Why nuclear power is considered low-carbon or green energy?
Low greenhouse gas emissions: Nuclear power plants do not produce carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases during their operation, unlike fossil fuel plants that emit large amounts of carbon dioxide and contribute to climate change.
High energy density: Nuclear fuel contains a very high energy density, which means that a small amount of fuel can produce a large amount of energy. This makes nuclear power a very efficient and reliable source of energy.
Energy security: Nuclear power plants provide a stable and reliable source of energy, which can help to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and improve energy security.
Reduced air pollution: Nuclear power plants do not emit pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, or particulate matter, which can have negative impacts on human health and the environment.
Land use: Nuclear power plants require much less land than renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power, which can help to conserve land and natural habitats.
How Nuclear energy is also responsible for greenhouse gas emissions?
Nuclear energy itself does not emit greenhouse gases during its operation, but it does produce greenhouse gas emissions during the lifecycle of the plant, including mining, processing, and transportation of nuclear fuel.
The construction and decommissioning of nuclear power plants also produce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, nuclear power plants rely on fossil fuels for the transportation of nuclear fuel and the operation of auxiliary systems.
The greenhouse gas emissions associated with nuclear energy are significantly lower than those associated with fossil fuels, but they are not zero.
Why is there resistance to nuclear energy?
Safety concerns: The risk of nuclear accidents, such as those that occurred at Chernobyl and Fukushima, have led to safety concerns about nuclear power plants. The potential for radioactive contamination and long-term health effects on the surrounding population have made many people wary of nuclear power.
Nuclear proliferation: The possibility that nuclear power could be used to develop nuclear weapons is a concern for many countries, particularly those with nuclear weapons programs themselves.
Waste disposal: The radioactive waste produced by nuclear power plants is dangerous and must be stored safely for hundreds of thousands of years. Finding a safe and secure method of storing this waste is a major challenge.
Cost: Nuclear power plants are expensive to build and maintain. Cost overruns and delays are common, and the cost of decommissioning nuclear power plants at the end of their life can be significant.
Public perception: Nuclear power has a negative public image in many countries, with many people associating it with danger and disaster.
Facts for Prelims
Uranium
Thorium
Atomic number
92
90
Natural isotopes
U-238, U-235, U-234
Th-232
Radioactivity
Highly radioactive
Weakly radioactive
Fissile
U-235 is fissile
Not fissile
Nuclear weapons
Can be used to create nuclear weapons
Cannot be used to create nuclear weapons
Nuclear power
Widely used for nuclear power
Not commonly used for nuclear power
Decay products
Produces many long-lived and dangerous decay products
Produces fewer and less dangerous decay products
Availability
Limited reserves
Abundant reserves
Waste disposal
Radioactive waste remains dangerous for thousands of years
Radioactive waste decays faster and becomes less dangerous
Environmental impact
Can have significant environmental impact
Considered less environmentally damaging than uranium mining
Health effects
Exposure can cause serious health effects, including cancer
Less harmful to human health than uranium
What are the concerns over radioactivity from spent fuel?
Long-term storage: Spent nuclear fuel remains radioactive for thousands of years and requires careful handling and storage to prevent any potential exposure to humans and the environment.
Accidents: Accidents during transportation or storage of spent nuclear fuel can result in the release of radioactive material, which can cause severe environmental damage and health risks to humans and other living organisms.
Nuclear proliferation: Spent nuclear fuel can also be used to create nuclear weapons, and there are concerns about the risk of nuclear proliferation and the potential use of these weapons.
Disposal: The long-term disposal of spent nuclear fuel is also a major challenge, as it requires finding safe and secure locations to store the material for thousands of years.
Why India should never consider phasing out nuclear power?
Limited growth potential for hydropower: India has limited growth potential for hydropower due to factors such as conserving biodiversity, rehabilitating and compensating landowners, and seismological factors in the Himalayas. Therefore, nuclear power is an alternative to coal-based power plants.
Net-zero emissions goal: To achieve the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, India needs a combination of small modular reactors and large reactors. Therefore, multiple companies need to be allowed to operate nuclear reactors rather than a monopoly by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited.
Firm, reliable and low-carbon power: Nuclear power is a source of firm, dispatchable power that is low carbon and reliable. It can provide a constant and stable source of electricity, especially when wind and solar energy are intermittent or variable.
Access to nuclear fuel: India has limited access to enriched uranium, which is required to fuel nuclear reactors. However, the country’s nuclear program is based on working around its limited supply of enriched uranium, and it has not faced any significant issues in accessing nuclear fuel.
Portfolio of technologies: A mix of supply-side and demand-side technologies is required to solve energy problems. Nuclear power can be a part of the portfolio of technologies that India needs to achieve its energy goals. Therefore, policy frameworks should be enabling rather than technology-specific.
Mains Question
Q. Do you agree with the statement that ‘Without scaling up nuclear power, it won’t be possible to decarbonise the electricity sector.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bharat Tap Rating, AMRUT
Mains level: Water conservation efforts
Central idea: The Centre is in the process of bringing in a star rating system for water fixtures similar to the ratings of electrical appliances.
Bharat Tap Rating
The star rating system would come under one umbrella called Bharat Tap, which was formulated under AMRUT 2.0 to drive water efficiency.
The initiative aims to promote and adopt water-efficient fixtures.
It would have 3, 4, and 5-star water fixtures based on their water efficiency.
This would help consumers make informed decisions while purchasing sanitary equipment.
Collaborators of the initiative
The Indian Plumbing Association and all manufacturers have been roped in to adopt and promote the new standards for water-efficient fixtures.
Why such move?
Data derived from this initiative showed that on average over 30% of water can be saved.
However, there was not enough data available to consumers to assist them in making informed decisions when purchasing sanitary fixtures.
Back2Basics: AMRUT 2.O
Water management: It will build upon the progress of AMRUT to address water needs, rejuvenate water bodies, better manage aquifers, reuse treated wastewater, thereby promoting circular economy of water.
Water supply: It would provide100% coverage of water supply to all households in around 4,700 ULBs.
Sewerage: It will provide 100% coverage of sewerage and septage in 500 AMRUT cities.
Rejuvenation of water bodies and urban aquifer management: It will be undertaken to augment sustainable fresh water supply.
Recycle and reuse of treated wastewater: It is expected to cater to 20% of total water needs of the cities and 40% of industrial demand.
Pey Jal Survekshan: It will be conducted in cities to ascertain equitable distribution of water, reuse of wastewater and mapping of water bodies.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Health Account (NHA) estimates
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central idea: The National Health Account Estimates 2019-20 report shows an increase in government spending and a decline in out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare.
About National Health Account (NHA) estimates
The NHA estimates for India 2019-20 is the seventh consecutive report prepared by the National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC).
NHSRC was designated as National Health Accounts Technical Secretariat (NHATS) in 2014 by the Union Health Ministry.
The NHA estimates use an accounting framework based on the internationally accepted standard of System of Health Accounts, 2011 developed by the WHO.
India now has a continuous series of NHA estimates from 2013-14 to 2019-20, making the estimates comparable internationally.
The estimates enable policymakers to monitor progress in different health financing indicators of the country.
Key highlights
Description
Government spending as % of GDP
Increased from 1.13% (FY 2015) to 1.35% (FY 2020)
Per capita health spending of the government has also increased from Rs 1,108 in FY 2015 to Rs 2,014 in FY 2020.
Govt share in total healthcare spending has increased from 29% in 2015 to 41.4% in 2020
Declining out-of-pocket expenditure
Proportion of total healthcare spending that comes from people’s pockets has decreased from 62.6% in 2015 to 47.1% in 2020
Govt aims to further reduce out-of-pocket expenditure by investing in public health and insurance
To reduce the financial burden of healthcare on individuals and increase the utilization of healthcare services
Government spending on primary healthcare
Increased from 51.3% in 2015 to 55.9% in 2020.
Govt. invested in creating 1.5 lakh health and wellness centres that can screen people for cancers, diabetes, and eye disease.
Increase in social security expenditure
Increased from 5.7% of total healthcare spending in 2015 to 9.3% in 2020.
Suggests that the government is investing more in social welfare programs.
Increase in spending on insurance
Privately purchased health insurance increased from 3.9% of total health expenditure in 2015 to 7.72% in 2020
Govt. financed health insurance spending also went up from 3.8% in 2015 to 6.37% in 2020
Health spending by states
Only two big states and three smaller ones have crossed the target of 8% of their budget going towards healthcare as set by the National Health Policy 2017.
Key issues
Marginal increase: Activists are concerned about the marginal increase in government spending.
Global laggard: This increase in government health expenditure as a percentage of GDP also takes into account capital spending, which puts India in 164th place out of 184 countries in terms of government health spending.
No proportional increase: Total spending on health as a proportion of GDP has been going down, from 3.9% in 2015 to 3.3% in 2020, indicating a decline in consumption of healthcare services.
Conclusion
Overall, the report shows that government spending on healthcare has been increasing, while out-of-pocket expenditure has been declining.
There is a need to invest in public health and insurance and increase the contribution of states towards healthcare.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Seamounts
Mains level: NA
Central Idea: Scientists have reported finding 19,325 new seamounts after poring through new high-resolution data. A study had already mapped 24,000 seamounts across the world’s oceans.
Why study this?
The recent discovery of new seamounts was made possible by advancements in altimetry for gravity-field mapping, which improved spatial coverage.
Seamounts are underwater mountains formed through volcanic activity.
They are recognised as hotspots for marine life.
Most seamounts are formed near mid-ocean ridges, intraplate hotspots, and oceanic island chains with volcanic and seismic activity called island arcs.
They can be active, extinct or dormant volcanoes.
Importance of Seamounts
Seamounts provide information about the mantle’s composition and how tectonic plates evolve as they are formed when molten rock comes up from below the tectonic plates.
Oceanographers study seamounts to understand their influence on how water circulates and absorbs heat and carbon dioxide.
Seamounts are home to diverse biological communities as they can cause localised ocean upwelling, which brings nutrient-rich water from deep within the ocean to the surface.
How were they mapped?
Surveyors map seamounts using either echo sounders or multibeam sonar on ships for topographic mapping or using satellite altimetry for gravity-field mapping.
The hi-res maps produced by multibeam sonar mapping are often incomplete, whereas the low-res maps produced by satellite altimetry have better coverage.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ningaloo ‘Hybrid’ Solar Eclipse
Mains level: Not Much
A ‘hybrid’ solar eclipse called the Ningaloo Eclipse recently happened on April 20, 2023.
Ningaloo ‘Hybrid’ Solar Eclipse
It was a rare astronomical event that occurred on April 20, 2023.
The Moon passed directly between the Sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on a narrow strip of land in Western Australia.
It was a “hybrid” eclipse, starting as an annular eclipse and transitioning into a total eclipse.
The path of the eclipse crossed over the Ningaloo Reef, a world heritage site in Western Australia.
It offered a unique opportunity to view the eclipse against the backdrop of the reef and the Indian Ocean.
How rare are such events?
During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth’s surface.
However, solar eclipses do not occur every month because the Moon’s orbit is tilted by about 5 degrees relative to Earth’s orbit around the Sun.
Therefore, the Moon’s shadow usually misses Earth, but occasionally the alignment is just right for a solar eclipse to occur.
In the case of the Ningaloo Hybrid Solar Eclipse, the alignment was such that the Moon was at the right distance from Earth to create both an annular and a total eclipse as it moved across the Sun.
This type of eclipse is quite rare, occurring only about once every 400 years.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Evolution theories
Mains level: Darwin’s theory of evolution, exclusion form school textbooks and concerns
Central Idea
The recent exclusion of Darwin’s theory of evolution from Indian school and college curricula has prompted concerns among scientists and educators, as it is one of the most firmly established theories in science that explains the origin of all forms of life and rescues the explanation from the belief in an intelligent designer.
What is Darwin’s theory of evolution?
Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution is one of the most influential scientific theories ever proposed. The main ideas behind Darwin’s theory of evolution include:
Variation: Within a population, there is variation in traits among individuals.
Inheritance: Some of these traits are passed on from parents to offspring.
Overproduction: Most populations produce more offspring than can survive to maturity.
Natural selection: Individuals with traits that are advantageous for survival and reproduction in their particular environment are more likely to survive and pass on their traits to their offspring, while those with less advantageous traits are less likely to survive and reproduce.
Adaptation: Over time, the frequency of advantageous traits in a population will increase, resulting in a better match between the organisms and their environment, known as adaptation.
Commondescent: All living organisms share a common ancestor that lived in the distant past.
Facts for prelims: Scientists and theories
Scientist
Theory
Key Points
Jean-Baptiste Lamarck
Theory of Inheritance of Acquired Characteristics
Organisms change and evolve during their lifetimes based on the environmental needs, and these changes can be passed on to their offspring. For example, giraffes developed longer necks by stretching their necks to reach higher branches, and these longer necks were passed on to their offspring.
Thomas Malthus
Theory of Population
Populations tend to increase faster than the food supply, leading to competition for resources. Only the individuals with advantageous traits survive, while others perish. This concept of “survival of the fittest” became an important part of Darwin’s theory.
Charles Darwin
Theory of Natural Selection
Organisms with advantageous traits have a greater chance of surviving and reproducing, passing on those traits to their offspring. Over time, this leads to the development of new species through the process of speciation. Darwin’s theory also emphasized the importance of variation, competition, and adaptation in the evolutionary process.
Alfred Russel Wallace
Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection
Similar to Darwin’s theory, Wallace’s theory emphasized the role of natural selection in the development of new species. However, Wallace also proposed that natural selection could result in the divergence of species into separate branches, which could eventually become new genera or families.
Hugo de Vries
Mutation Theory
Mutations, or sudden genetic changes, are the driving force behind evolution rather than gradual changes over time. De Vries also proposed the concept of “species-polymerism”, where multiple species could arise from a single ancestral species through mutations.
Stephen Jay Gould
Theory of Punctuated Equilibrium
Evolutionary change occurs in rapid bursts (punctuations) followed by long periods of stability (equilibrium). This theory challenges the traditional view of evolution as a slow, gradual process. Gould also emphasized the role of contingency or chance events in shaping evolutionary history.
Why must students and teachers in school concern themselves with Darwin’s theory?
Understanding the origin of human beings and other forms of life: Darwin’s theory of evolution is one of the most firmly established theories in science that explains the origin of human beings and all other forms of life in the world.
Challenging the belief in an intelligent designer: Darwin’s theory rescues the explanation of the origin of life from the belief that an ‘intelligent designer’ (read: god) built them the way they are and put them in their place.
Encouraging critical inquiry and embracing critique: The teaching of Darwin’s theory offers possibilities of confronting science’s own troubled history and requires caution alongside curiosity, creativity and imagination.
Understanding the historical and contemporary world of science: The teaching of Darwin’s theory can help students understand that science is rarely the story of a lone man, and it is shaped by the social and cultural beliefs of its times.
Enhancing scientific literacy: Understanding Darwin’s theory of evolution is crucial for enhancing scientific literacy, as it is an essential component of biology and a cornerstone of modern science.
Lack of transitional fossils: Some critics argue that there is a lack of transitional fossils, which are intermediate forms of species between ancestral and descendant forms. They claim that the absence of such fossils undermines the validity of the theory of evolution.
Incomplete explanation of variation: While Darwin’s theory of natural selection explains how variation arises in a population, it does not fully explain the source of the variation. Some critics argue that the theory does not account for genetic mutations or other mechanisms that can generate variation.
Lack of empirical evidence for macroevolution: While the theory of evolution is well-supported by empirical evidence for microevolution (small-scale changes within a species), critics argue that there is insufficient empirical evidence to support macroevolution (large-scale changes between species).
The origin of life: Critics argue that Darwin’s theory does not explain how life originated in the first place.
Complexity of living organisms: Critics argue that the complexity of living organisms cannot be explained solely by natural selection and that there must be some other explanation for the diversity and complexity of life.
Conclusion
Science is a messy affair that requires caution alongside curiosity, creativity, and imagination. The teaching of Darwin’s theory must offer possibilities of confrontation without underplaying its strengths. While Darwin must remain in our textbooks, the way it is taught must change to include other influences that have shaped the theory and the consequent use of the theory by others and himself.
Mains Question
Q. What is Darwin’s theory of evolution? As the theory is being dropped from the school textbooks, discuss why must students and teachers in school concern themselves with Darwin’s theory?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Vande Bharat, Railways related updates
Mains level: Indian railways performance, challenges and way ahead
Central Idea
The Indian Railways has been in the news lately, with the launch of Vande Bharat trains and their successive introduction in different parts of the country. However, amid the publicity surrounding these new trains, the larger picture and serious issues confronting the Indian Railways are being overlooked. This article aims to evaluate the performance of the Indian Railways, especially in the freight and passenger sectors, and highlights the need for more relevant metrics.
Facts for prelims: Vande Bharat Express
Vande Bharat Express
Vande Bharat Express, also known as Train 18, is a semi-high-speed, fully air-conditioned train in India that runs on electric traction. It is named after the country’s national slogan “Vande Mataram” and was designed and manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, India.
The train is equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, an infotainment system, and a GPS-based passenger information system, among others.
It has a maximum speed of 180 km/h and is considered to be one of the fastest trains in India.
It is designed to be an energy-efficient and eco-friendly train, and is expected to provide a comfortable and safe travel experience to passengers.
Performance and prospect of the Indian Railways, especially in the freight and passenger sectors
Investment in Indian Railways: Since the merger of the Railway Budget with the General Budget in 2017, there has been a shift towards ramping up investments in the Indian Railways. The Annual Plan outlay for the Railways has increased from ₹1,09,935 crore in 2016-17 to ₹2,60,200 crore in the Budget for 2023-24, an increase of 137%. While this unprecedented level of investment is welcome, it must translate into concrete progress towards capacity building, and not just be limited to inputs.
Freight Sector:
Rail share of freight traffic: The National Rail Plan 2030 (NRP) aims to raise the rail share in freight traffic vis-à-vis roadways from 27% to 45% by 2050. However, the rail share of freight carried reduced from 51.5% in 2008-09 to 32.4% in 2018-19 for leads over 300 km.
Commodity diversification: Almost the entire increase in volume of traffic carried by rail over the decade 2008-09 to 2018-19 has been in short lead traffic (leads up to 300 km) and 55% of the increase was through the transport of just one commodity, viz. coal. As yet, there is no evidence of higher levels of traffic being achieved concurrently with diversification of commodities carried or an increase in rail share vis-à-vis road transport.
Average speed of goods trains: The NRP aims to raise the average speed of goods trains to 50 kilometres per hour from the present 25 kmph, which is expected to increase efficiency and reduce transportation costs.
Tariff rates for freight: The NRP also calls for a concurrent reduction in tariff rates for freight by up to 30%.
Passenger Sector: Punctuality is a crucial operational index for passenger trains. While published statistics of punctuality usually are above 90%, these figures are arrived at with a dose of adjustment and only the destination arrival time is considered irrespective of the fact that a train might have been off schedule en route at all the important intermediate stations. The Indian Railways should aim to be at least within five minutes (without any adjustment) of the scheduled time.
Facts for prelims (Conceptual): Whyfreight trains are switching to aluminium wagons?
Consume less energy and reduce carbon emissions: Aluminium trains consume less energy and the metal is recyclable. It is estimated that switching to aluminium will save 1,500 tonnes of carbon emissions a year.
Lighter as compared to steel: They are lighter by up to 30% compared to stainless steel coaches. These coaches, being lighter than stainless steel ones, are preferred for higher speed systems.
Less time to manufacture: Aluminium trains take less time to manufacture and thus can help speed up capacity for production.
Low haulage cost and high payload capacity: They offer low haulage cost and higher payload, better fuel efficiency and lower pollution levels.
Expected to improve freight transportation: The new metal trains will help the Railways hike its share in overall freight transportation from the current 18%.
Need for an annual report
Report on the lines of the annual Economic Survey: Government should consider tabling an annual report on the performance of the Railways in Parliament on the lines of the annual Economic Survey prepared by the Finance Ministry ahead of the General Budget.
Not just for publicity pamphlet but a resource for policymakers: This report, unlike a publicity pamphlet like the Indian Railways Year Book, should be an internal performance audit that should serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, serious students and also researchers in the field of rail transport.
International standards in punctuality: If stations in the Indian Railways network can be remodelled to international standards, perhaps it is time to aim for international standards in punctuality of trains as well.
Evolve an index of punctuality: It is high time to move away from the traditional concept of destination punctuality and evolve an index of punctuality that will also reflect the punctuality at select intermediate stations, at least for all mail/express trains.
Passenger experience: The focus should be to improve overall passenger experience, not merely statistics.
Other areas for assessment: There are several other areas that need critical analysis, such as financial performance, physical performance, safety, organizational/human resource issues, project execution, customer relations, and the effect of the dedicated freight corridors on the Indian Railways system capacity.
Conclusion
The Indian Railways is the prime transporter and the largest public undertaking in the country, and it is crucial that its performance is evaluated using relevant metrics. While the introduction of Vande Bharat trains is a success story, it must not be the only focus. The focus should be on improving overall passenger experience and performance in the freight sector, and not merely on statistics.
Mains Question
Q. The consecutive introduction of Vande Bharat trains is a success story so far. In this backdrop Evaluate the performance of Indian railways and suggest measures to further improve the passenger experience.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Eco-sensitive buffer Zones (ESZs)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central idea
The Supreme Court modified its judgment on mandatory eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) around protected forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries across the country.
The court has now made it clear that ESZs cannot be uniform across the country and has to be “protected area-specific.”
What are the Eco-sensitive Zones (ESZs)?
Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by the MoEFCC around Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
The purpose of declaring ESZs is to create some kind of “shock absorbers” to the protected areas by regulating and managing the activities around such areas.
They also act as a transition zone from areas of high protection to areas involving lesser protection.
How are they demarcated?
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 does NOT mention the word “Eco-Sensitive Zones”.
However, Section 3(2)(v) of the Act, says that Central Government can restrict areas in which any industries, operations or processes or class of industries, operations or processes shall be carried out or shall not, subject to certain safeguards.
Besides Rule 5(1) of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 states that central government can prohibit or restrict the location of industries and carrying on certain operations or processes on the basis of certain considerations.
The same criteria have been used by the government to declare No Development Zones (NDZs).
Defining its boundaries
An ESZ could go up to 10 kilometres around a protected area as provided in the Wildlife Conservation Strategy, 2002.
Moreover, in the case where sensitive corridors, connectivity and ecologically important patches, crucial for landscape linkage, are beyond 10 km width, these should be included in the ESZs.
Further, even in the context of a particular Protected Area, the distribution of an area of ESZ and the extent of regulation may not be uniform all around and it could be of variable width and extent.
Activities Permitted and Prohibited
Permitted: Ongoing agricultural or horticultural practices, rainwater harvesting, organic farming, use of renewable energy sources, and adoption of green technology for all activities.
Prohibited: Commercial mining, saw mills, industries causing pollution (air, water, soil, noise etc), the establishment of major hydroelectric projects (HEP), commercial use of wood, Tourism activities like hot-air balloons over the National Park, discharge of effluents or any solid waste or production of hazardous substances.
Under regulation: Felling of trees, the establishment of hotels and resorts, commercial use of natural water, erection of electrical cables, drastic change of agriculture system, e.g. adoption of heavy technology, pesticides etc, widening of roads.
What was the recent SC judgment?
On June 3, 2022, the apex court had ordered a 1-km buffer zone for protected areas to act as a “shock absorber.”
However, the Centre and several states, including Kerala, had returned to the apex court seeking modification of the judgment, saying the direction affected hundreds of villages in the peripheries of forests.
Impact of the Judgment
Earlier judgement would have certainly hampered the day-to-day activities of the citizens residing in ESZs.
It would also prevent villagers from reconstructing their houses, the government from constructing schools, dispensaries, anganwadis, and other basic structures for the improvement of the life of the villagers.
The court also noted that it would be impossible for forest departments to conduct eco-development activities around national parks and sanctuaries.
Try this PYQ
With reference to ‘Eco-Sensitive Zones’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that are declared under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
The purpose of the declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zones is to prohibit all kinds of human activities, in those zones except agriculture.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Bills/Act/Laws | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: National Medical Devices Policy, 2023
Central idea: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Hon’ble Prime Minister, approved the National Medical Devices Policy, 2023.
National Medical Devices Policy, 2023
The Policy, 2023 aims to facilitate an orderly growth of the medical device sector to meet the public health objectives of access, affordability, quality, and innovation.
The policy lays down a roadmap for accelerated growth of the medical devices sector to achieve various missions.
Objectives
The policy aims to make the industry competitive, self-reliant, resilient, and innovative.
It focuses on meeting the healthcare needs of not only India but also the world.
It aims to accelerate the growth of the medical devices sector.
It takes a patient-centric approach to meet the evolving healthcare needs of patients.
It provides support and directions to the medical devices industry to achieve these goals.
Strategies to Promote Medical Device Sector
The medical devices sector will be facilitated and guided through a set of strategies that cover six broad areas of policy interventions:
Key measures and actions
1. Regulatory Streamlining
Enhance ease of doing research and business, balance patient safety with product innovation, create a Single Window Clearance System for licensing of medical devices, enhance the role of Indian Standards like BIS, and design a coherent pricing regulation.
2. Enabling Infrastructure
Establish and strengthen large medical device parks and clusters equipped with world-class common infrastructure facilities in proximity to economic zones with requisite logistics connectivity.
3. Facilitating R&D and Innovation
Promote research and development in India, establish centres of excellence in academic and research institutions, innovation hubs, and support for startups.
4. Attracting Investments in the Sector
Encourage private investments, funding from venture capitalists, and public-private partnerships, in addition to existing schemes and interventions like Make in India, Ayushman Bharat program, Heal-in-India, and Start-up mission.
5. Human Resources Development
Ensure a steady supply of skilled workforce across the value chain by leveraging available resources in the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, supporting dedicated multidisciplinary courses for medical devices in existing institutions, and developing partnerships with foreign academic/industry organizations to develop medical technologies.
6. Brand Positioning and Awareness Creation
Create a dedicated Export Promotion Council for the sector under the Department, initiate studies and projects for learning from best global practices of manufacturing and skilling system, promote more forums to bring together various stakeholders for sharing knowledge, and build strong networks across the sector.
Medical devices sector in India: A quick recap
The medical devices sector in India is an essential and integral part of the Indian healthcare sector.
The sector has contributed significantly to the domestic and global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic through the large-scale production of medical devices & diagnostic kits.
Growth potential in India
The market size of the medical devices sector in India is estimated to be $11 billion (approximately, ₹ 90,000 Cr) in 2020, and its share in the global medical device market is estimated to be 1.5%.
The Indian medical devices sector has enormous potential to become self-reliant and contribute towards the goal of universal health care.
Current initiatives in this sector
The Government of India has initiated the implementation of the PLI Scheme for medical devices.
It supports for setting up of four Medical devices Parks in the States of Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh.
The Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP) has developed sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using home-grown technology from cooking oil and oil-bearing plants.
SAF is also being produced from non-petroleum-based renewable feedstocks, municipal solid waste, woody biomass, fats/greases/oils, and other feedstocks.
About ASTM certification
ASTM International is an international standards organization that develops and publishes technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services.
It was formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials and is based in the United States.
The organization has over 30,000 members from more than 140 countries, including scientists, engineers, and industry professionals.
The standards cover industries such as construction, petroleum, medical devices, and consumer products.
SAF under ASTM Certification
Two of ASTM standards related to aviation fuel are ASTM D4054 and ASTM D7566.
ASTM D4054 sets the requirements for qualifying aviation turbine fuels.
ASTM D7566 sets the requirements for certifying fuels for use in commercial aviation.
Present use of SAF
The Indian Air Force received provisional certification in November 2021 to use SAF on their test flights, subject to case-by-case approval by the aircraft manufacturer concerned.
However, it is yet to be internationally certified for use in commercial airlines in India.
SAF production in India
The Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd is setting up the first SAF plant, which is expected to come online by early 2025.
However, two more SAF plants are expected to be set up by other refineries, probably by 2025-26.
The Mangalore Refinery can produce 20 tonnes of SAF per day, meaning about 7,000 tonnes per year.
However, to achieve even a per cent of blending of SAF in India, around 60,000 tonnes per year are required.
Way forward
Demand for bio-jet fuel must be increased through a national policy, along the lines of the National Biofuel Policy, for it to be commercially scaled and to accelerate production.
A nodal agency to implement this policy should be formed to bring together energy, transportation and agriculture sectors together under one roof.
Mapping the sources of the various feedstock could aid this policy.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PRET Initiaitve
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea: The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a PRET initiative to be better prepared for future outbreaks of a similar scale and devastation as the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is PRET Initiative?
The Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative is launched by the WHO to prepare for future outbreaks of a similar scale and devastation as the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is aimed at providing guidance on integrated planning for responding to any respiratory pathogen such as influenza or coronaviruses.
The current focus of PRET is on respiratory viruses, but work is already underway to assess what should be the next group of pathogens to be mitigated under this initiative.
It can serve to operationalize the objectives and provisions of the Pandemic Accord, which is currently being negotiated by WHO Member States.
Three-pronged approach of PRET
The three-pronged approach includes-
Updating preparedness plans
Increasing connectivity among stakeholders in pandemic preparedness planning, and
Dedicating sustained investments, financing, and monitoring of pandemic preparedness.
The approach has a special focus on bridging the gaps highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring community engagement and equity are at the centre of preparedness and response efforts.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Heat stroke and related terminologies in news
Mains level: Heat stroke related mortality and preventive measures
Central Idea
The recent deaths of 14 people due to heat stroke in Navi Mumbai serves as a reminder of the dangers of heat waves, and with the IMD predicting a hotter summer this year, it’s essential that we take proactive steps to prevent heat-related deaths and illnesses. The Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan (HAP), launched in 2013, offers a blueprint that can be applied across India to combat heat stroke-related mortality and morbidity.
Heat stroke is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, leading to a dangerous increase in body temperature.
This can happen when a person is exposed to high temperatures and humidity for prolonged periods, leading to dehydration, loss of fluids and electrolytes, and an inability to cool down through sweating.
Symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, rapid and shallow breathing, confusion, agitation, disorientation, seizures, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness and organ failure.
Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention, as it can be fatal if left untreated.
Facts for prelims: Heat related terminologies in news
Heat stroke: Heat stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, and the body temperature rises to dangerous levels, usually above 104°F (40°C). It can lead to organ damage and even death if not treated promptly.
Heat cramps: Heat cramps are painful muscle contractions that can occur during physical activity in hot weather.
Heat wave: A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, which can be accompanied by high humidity levels. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) defines a heat wave as when the daily maximum temperature of more than five consecutive days exceeds the average maximum temperature by 5°C, and the normal minimum temperature is also exceeded.
Heat index: It is the measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is added to actual air temperature. The higher the heat index, the hotter it feels.
Thermal stress: It is the stress on the human body caused by high temperatures, humidity, and solar radiation.
Urban Heat Island: It refers to the phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to human activities like transportation, industrialization, and construction.
Wet bulb globe temperature: It is a measure of heat stress in direct sunlight, which takes into account temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover.
Diurnal temperature range: It is the difference between the maximum and minimum temperatures in a 24-hour period. A low diurnal temperature range indicates high humidity and poor air quality.
Features of Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan (HAP)
The Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan (HAP) includes five components that are designed to prevent heat stroke-related mortality and morbidity. These components are:
Prediction and Alert System: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts temperature levels for over 500 cities and all districts of India. Local governments can use historical temperature data to issue red, orange, and yellow alerts depending on the severity of the heat wave.
Public Awareness: Raising public awareness about the actions to be taken during heat waves. Simple measures like carrying water while going out, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight, and taking frequent rests can prevent heat stroke.
Provision of Water and Shade: Providing water and shade in public places and construction sites.
Vulnerable Populations: Special attention should be given to vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with comorbidities. Those who work outside, such as traffic police, labourers, and street vendors, should be informed about ways to protect themselves from heat stroke.
Annual Review: Each city and district should appoint a Heat officer to ensure that the HAP is implemented effectively. An annual review of the plan can help identify areas for improvement and ensure that the most vulnerable are protected from heat stroke-related mortality and morbidity.
Why India have not paid much attention to heat-related mortality and morbidity?
People accustomed to hot weather: Most people in India are accustomed to hot weather, and heat waves are not seen as a major threat. Traditionally, most cultures in India have words to describe heat stroke, and people know that it is a serious condition, so it has not been seen as a new or emerging issue.
Weak commitment to public health: The country is facing several other pressing issues and has a weak national commitment to public health in general.
Lack of awareness: Lack of awareness about the dangers of heat stroke and the need for preventive measures.
Overshadow effect: The focus on communicable diseases and other health issues has overshadowed the impact of heat waves on public health.
Limited research and data: Limited research and data on the extent of heat stroke-related morbidity and mortality in India.
Limited resources: Limited infrastructure and resources for managing heat waves and providing relief to affected populations.
Inadequate political will: Insufficient political will and resources to prioritize public health interventions related to heat waves.
Long-term measures that the government can take to combat the effects of heat waves
Increase green cover: Trees and plants can help to reduce the effects of heat waves by providing shade and absorbing carbon dioxide. The government can undertake afforestation drives and promote the planting of trees in cities, towns, and villages.
Promote cool roofs: Painting roofs white or using reflective roofing materials can help to reflect sunlight and reduce the absorption of heat. The government can promote the use of cool roofs in new construction and retrofitting of existing buildings.
Improve access to water: Access to safe drinking water is crucial during heat waves. The government can undertake initiatives to improve access to water in public places, especially for vulnerable populations.
Develop urban heat island mitigation strategies: Urban areas are more susceptible to the effects of heat waves due to the urban heat island effect. The government can develop strategies to mitigate the effects of urban heat islands, such as increasing green cover, promoting cool roofs, and improving ventilation in buildings.
Improve healthcare infrastructure: The healthcare system must be prepared to deal with the increased incidence of heat stroke during heat waves. The government can improve healthcare infrastructure by increasing the number of hospitals and clinics, providing adequate medical supplies and equipment, and training healthcare professionals to deal with heat stroke cases.
Improve public transport: The use of public transport can reduce the number of vehicles on the road, thereby reducing emissions and heat. The government can promote the use of public transport by improving the quality and availability of public transport services.
Promote energy efficiency: The government can promote energy efficiency by undertaking energy audits of public buildings and promoting the use of energy-efficient appliances.
Conclusion
The Heat Action Plan offers a simple, effective framework for preventing heat stroke-related deaths and illnesses. With interdepartmental coordination and top-level commitment, it is possible to protect vulnerable populations during heat waves. It is essential that all cities, districts, and villages in India prepare for heat waves and take proactive measures to prevent heat stroke-related mortality and morbidity.
Mains Question
Q. What do you understand by mean is Heat Stroke? India has witnessing high number of heat related mortality and morbidity. In light of this serious concern, illustrate how India can take measures to prevent heat stroke-related mortality and morbidity.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key findings of the Water bodies census
Mains level: Water bodies census, significance , key findings
Central Idea
The Ministry of Jal Shakthi has released the first-ever census of water bodies in India, highlighting the number of water bodies and their usage. The census has identified 24,24,540 water bodies in India. The Census highlighted disparities between rural and urban areas and varying levels of encroachment and revealed crucial insights into the country’s water resources. The data can help in planning rural development initiatives and conserving natural resources.
Definition of water bodies
Water bodies in this census are defined as any natural or man-made structures used for storing water for various purposes, such as irrigation, industry, fish farming, domestic use, recreation, religious activities, and groundwater recharge. They are classified as tanks, reservoirs and ponds.
A structure that collects water from melting ice, streams, springs, rain, or drainage from residential or other areas, or stores water diverted from a stream, nala, or river, is also considered a water body
All you need to know about the Water Bodies census
Launched under Irrigation Census: The census was launched under the centrally sponsored scheme, Irrigation Census in convergence with the 6th Minor Irrigation Census in order to have a comprehensive national database of all water bodies.
Comprehensive information: The information on all important aspects of the water bodies including their type, condition, status of encroachments, use, storage capacity, status of filling up of storage, etc was collected.
Extensive coverage: It covered all the water bodies located in rural as well as urban areas that are in-use or not in-use. The census also took into account all type of uses of water bodies like irrigation, industry, pisciculture, domestic/ drinking, recreation, religious, ground water recharge etc.
Completed and published: Census has been successfully completed and the All India and State-wise reports have been published.
The key findings of the Census
Disparities in rural and urban area: 24,24,540 water bodies have been enumerated in the country, out of which 97.1% (23,55,055) are in rural areas and only 2.9% (69,485) are in urban areas.
Manmade v/s natural water bodies and encroachment: 78% water bodies are man-made water bodies whereas 22% are natural water bodies. 1.6% (38,496) water bodies out of all the enumerated water bodies are reported to be encroached out of which 95.4% are in rural areas and remaining 4.6% in urban areas.
Top 5 States in terms of number of water bodies: West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Assam which constitute around 63% of the total water bodies in the country.
Top 5 States in terms of number of water bodies in urban areas: West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh and Tripura,
Top 5 States in terms of number of water bodies in rural areas: West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Assam.
Categorisation of water bodies:5% of water bodies are ponds, followed by tanks (15.7%), reservoirs (12.1%), Water conservation schemes/percolation tanks/check dams (9.3%), lakes (0.9%) and others (2.5%).
Private ownership:2% of water bodies are owned by private entities. Out of all private owned water bodies, maximum water bodies are in hands of Individual owner/farmer followed by group of individuals and other private bodies. Top 5 States which lead in the private owned water bodies are West Bengal, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Jharkhand.
Public ownership:8% of water bodies are in the domain of public ownership. Out of all public owned water bodies, maximum water bodies are owned by Panchayats, followed by State Irrigation/State WRD.
Facts for prelims
West Bengal boasts of the highest number of ponds and reservoirs.
Andhra Pradesh the highest number of tanks.
Tamil Nadu the highest number of lakes.
Maharashtra leads in terms of water conservation initiatives.
Major use of water bodies
Among the total 20,30,040 utilised water bodies,
Pisciculture: Top 5 States wherein major use of water bodies is in pisciculture are West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. Among the total 20,30,040 utilised water bodies,
Irrigation: Top 5 States wherein major use of water bodies is in irrigation are Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal and Gujarat. 16.5% (3,35,768) is dedicated to irrigation,
Groundwater replenishment: Among the total 20,30,040 utilised water bodies 12.1% (2,44,918) to groundwater replenishment, and
Domestic and drinking water:1% (2,05,197) to domestic and drinking water needs. The remaining are employed for recreational, industrial, religious and other purposes.
Ecological Significance: Water bodies serve as habitats for various aquatic plants and animals, maintaining biodiversity in ecosystems. They also contribute to the regulation of water cycles, groundwater recharge, and reduction of soil erosion.
Social Significance: Water bodies have cultural and religious values in many societies. They also provide recreational opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, and other leisure activities.
Economic Importance: They play a crucial role in agriculture, providing irrigation water to crops. They also support the fishing industry, which is a significant source of livelihood for many communities. Moreover, water bodies contribute to hydropower generation and are used for industrial and domestic purposes.
Climate Change Resilience: Water bodies can help mitigate the impacts of climate change by acting as carbon sinks and regulating the microclimate in surrounding areas.
Disaster Management: Water bodies can act as natural buffers against natural disasters such as floods and droughts. They can also help in mitigating the effects of water scarcity by providing alternative sources of water.
What is the significance of the census of water bodies?
Better management and conservation: The census provides an inventory of the country’s water bodies, which can help in better management and conservation of these resources. It can aid policymakers in making informed decisions about their usage and allocation, especially in areas facing water scarcity.
Data-driven planning: The data from the census can be used to identify the areas where water bodies are in need of restoration or protection. It can also help in identifying the gaps in availability and utilization of water resources, which can be addressed through data-driven planning and decision-making.
Addressing environmental concerns: The census can aid in identifying water bodies that are under threat due to pollution or other environmental concerns. Such water bodies can be prioritized for remedial action and conservation efforts.
Economic benefits: The census can help in identifying the potential economic benefits of the water bodies, such as for fishing, irrigation, or tourism. This can aid in promoting sustainable use of these resources and in creating livelihood opportunities for the local population.
Better targeting of government schemes: The census data can be used to target government schemes and programs related to water conservation and management. This can aid in ensuring that the benefits of such schemes reach the intended beneficiaries and that the resources are used effectively.
Conclusion
The census of water bodies in India provides valuable data for planning rural development initiatives, conserving natural resources, and preventing encroachment. The data also highlights the need for sustainable water management practices and the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations. The census serves as a reminder of the importance of water bodies in supporting livelihoods, ensuring food security, and providing access to clean drinking water.
Mains Question
Q. For the first time in the country,Ministry of Jal Shakti has conducted the first-ever census of water bodies across the nation. In this backdrop, highlight key findings of the census and discuss the significance of such kind of census.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Web transformation, Data analytics applications and developments
Mains level: Internet and Web development, and constraints and opportunities
Central Idea
India’s digital asset opportunity is worth $1.1 trillion by 2032, and the third-generation web or Web 3.0 is crucial to realizing this potential. However, the complex and diverse descriptors used by experts make the policy perspective of Web 3.0 difficult to comprehend. The article aims to explain the transformative role of Web 3.0 in India’s digital asset opportunity.
Third-generation internet web: Web 3, also known as the third-generation web, is a term used to describe the next iteration of the internet, which is expected to be decentralised, privacy-oriented, blockchain-driven, and crypto-asset friendly.
Radically transformation the way data generated: It seeks to radically transform the manner in which data is generated, monetised, shared, and circulated, and advocates for decentralised data storage systems with the objective of unshackling the oligopolistic grip of technology behemoths over data.
Bold elements: Web3 has bold elements such as the strategic role it assigns to non-custodial wallets that function as digital passports for users to access blockchain-enabled transaction platforms, as well as replacing micro-economic organizations with decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).
What is Web 3.0?
Semantic web: Web 3.0 upholds the property of the semantic web, which is powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Ability to recombine information: The real point about the semantic web is its ability to recombine information available on different websites to generate new content and knowledge resources that are more authentic and creative.
Robust capability of data analytics: Followers of Web 3.0 claim that their version is endowed with robust capability on the data analytics front. This way, it is argued that Web 3.0 will create far better search engines.
How is Web 3 is different from 3.0?
Web3
Web 3.0
Decentralized, privacy-oriented, blockchain-driven and crypto-asset friendly
Powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and upholds the property of the ‘semantic web’
Seeks to radically transform the manner in which data is generated, monetized, shared and circulated.
Has the ability to recombine information available on different websites to generate new content and knowledge resources that are more authentic and creative
Advocates decentralised data storage systems to unshackle the oligopolistic grip of technology behemoths over data.
Robust capability on the data analytics front to create far better search engines
Has file-sharing systems such as the Inter-Planetary File System which are cryptographically protected, more secure and capable of functioning off Internet and off blockchains.
The web 3.0’s semantic web is powered by Artificial Intelligence and the ability to recombine information available on different websites to generate new content and knowledge resources that are more authentic and creative.
Strategic role it assigns to non-custodial wallets that function as digital passports for users to access blockchain-enabled transaction platforms.
Has the ability to facilitate ‘analytics at the edge’ providing considerable scope for mapping the water use habits of communities
Seeks to replace micro-economic organizations with decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).
Can yield insights from large volumes of community data generated by IoT-enabled development programs such as the Jal Jeevan Mission
Seeks to create a distributed economic system where special classes of native digital tokens and cryptocurrencies would form the media of monetary circulation.
Can improve early warning systems for floods due to data analytics facilities being obtained at the sub-basin level
Seeks to raise the efficiency of peer-to-peer transactions.
Can be utilized to draw upon the talent pool for the benefit of rural communities.
Benefits of Web 3.0 for India
Handicraft industry: Web 3.0 could enable India’s handcraft enterprises to secure their innovations using digital tokens. Instruction tools based on Web 3.0 could also allow for the rapid dissemination of grassroots innovations from master artisans to fellow members, improving the economic fortunes of craftsmen and artisan communities in north-east, western, and peninsular India.
Rural development: India’s major digital public infrastructure push and the large-scale deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) in rural development projects offer major possibilities for deploying Web 3.0 in rural areas. Web 3.0’s (decentralized) analytics systems could help overcome the limitation of data analytics capabilities at the community level.
For Instance: Web 3.0 could yield insights from large volumes of community data generated by IoT-enabled development programs such as the Jal Jeevan Mission. Web 3.0’s natural advantage of facilitating analytics at the edge provides considerable scope for mapping the water use habits of communities.
Capital mobilization: Web 3.0 could generate asset tokens that are native to the new-gen web and have the potential to function as capital mobilization tools for Web3 projects. Stakeholders of DAOs can also utilize tokens to exercise their voting rights.
Peer-to-peer transactions: Web3 seeks to replace micro-economic organizations with decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). In general, Web3 platforms would serve to raise the efficiency of peer-to-peer transactions.
Data storage: Web3 advocates for decentralized data storage systems with the objective of unshackling the oligopolistic grip of technology behemoths over data. Web3 has file-sharing systems such as the Inter-Planetary File System which are cryptographically protected, more secure and capable of functioning off Internet and off blockchains.
What are the challenges for web 3.0 in India?
Lack of infrastructure: Web 3.0 requires a robust and reliable internet infrastructure, which is currently lacking in many parts of India. This can hinder the adoption of Web 3.0 technologies, especially in rural areas.
Limited digital literacy: India still has a large population with limited digital literacy. This can make it difficult for users to understand and access Web 3.0 applications, especially in remote areas where access to digital devices and the internet is limited.
Regulatory challenges: The use of blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies, which are central to Web 3.0, faces regulatory challenges in India. The government has been hesitant to embrace these technologies, which could hinder the development of Web 3.0 applications.
Skill gaps: The development of Web 3.0 applications requires a specific set of technical skills, which are currently in short supply in India. Bridging this skill gap will be crucial to enable the development and deployment of Web 3.0 technologies in India.
Security concerns: Web 3.0 applications are based on decentralized systems, which are inherently more secure than centralized systems. However, they are still susceptible to cyber attacks and security breaches
Constraints related to data analytics in rural areas
Lack of data analytics capabilities at the community level, resulting in untapped data resources such as the Atal Bhujal Yojana.
Rapid pace of data generation in rural areas outpacing the capacity for data analytics to keep up.
Limited availability of data analytics talent in rural areas.
Way ahead
Developing a third-gen web strategy that optimizes public interest by combining the features of Web3 and Web 3.0.
Providing incentives for decentralised analytics and tokenising them to draw upon the talent pool for the benefit of rural communities.
Exploring tokenisation and applying blockchain solutions for development programs, as proposed in India’s National Blockchain Strategy 2021.
Addressing challenges such as lack of awareness, regulatory uncertainty, and insufficient infrastructure.
Building capacity for data analytics and web design in rural areas.
Encouraging the deployment of Web 3 applications in rural development projects and community data initiatives.
Partnering with global experts to leverage their knowledge and experience in the field.
Facilitating research and development to enhance the capabilities of Web 3 technologies.
Ensuring that the development of Web 3 is inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic status.
Conclusion
India’s National Blockchain Strategy 2021 must craft a third-gen web strategy that optimises public interest by combining the welcome features of Web3 and Web 3.0. By providing incentives for decentralised analytics and tokenising them, it is possible to draw upon the talent pool for the benefit of rural communities. Web 3.0 can be a transformative tool for India’s digital asset opportunity worth $1.1 trillion by 2032.
Mains Question
Q. What is web 3.0. How it is seen as different from web 3? Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of web 3.0 for India.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Updates on the development of Virtual digital assets,
Mains level: Virtual digital assets, Money laundering and challenges and prevention
Central Idea
The regulation of new technologies can be a challenging task, as their rapid and constant change can create unintended consequences. History is full of examples where innovations were curtailed, such as the infamous Red Flag Act of the UK that ended up strengthening the motorcar industry in Europe. Today, India’s recent notification on anti-money laundering provisions for virtual digital assets businesses and service providers is a step in the right direction.
What is mean by Virtual Digital Assets?
Digital representations of value: Virtual Digital Assets refer to digital representations of value that can be transferred, stored, or traded electronically. These assets may include cryptocurrencies, tokens, or other forms of digital assets that are secured using cryptography and blockchain technology.
Intangible: Virtual digital assets are intangible and exist only in the digital realm, but they can be used as a medium of exchange, store of value, or investment.
Decentralized nature: Virtual digital assets are typically decentralized and operate independently of central authorities, making them appealing to many users. However, their decentralized nature also makes them susceptible to illicit activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing, which has led to the need for regulations and oversight.
Anonymity: Virtual digital assets offer a degree of anonymity, which can be exploited by criminals to conceal their identities and activities.
Lack of regulations: The lack of comprehensive regulations in the virtual digital asset space makes it easier for criminals to launder money using these assets.
Cross-border transactions: Virtual digital assets can be used to conduct cross-border transactions with ease, making it easier for criminals to move money across jurisdictions and avoid detection.
Decentralized nature: The decentralized nature of virtual digital assets means that there is no central authority regulating the transactions, making it difficult to track and monitor illicit activities.
High liquidity: Virtual digital assets are highly liquid and can be easily converted into other forms of currency, making it easier for criminals to move money around and launder their proceeds.
Complex transactions: Some virtual digital asset transactions can be highly complex, making it difficult to trace the source of the funds and detect money laundering activities.
India’s approach to regulate virtual digital assets
Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Act of 2002: PMLA enacted in 2002 to prevent and combat money laundering and related crimes. The act provides for the confiscation of property derived from, or involved in, money laundering, and also imposes penalties on individuals and entities involved in money laundering activities.
Extension of anti-money laundering provisions: India’s Union Finance Ministry, in a gazette notification, extended anti-money laundering provisions to virtual digital assets businesses and service providers, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Act of 2002.
Mandatory registration: Virtual digital assets platforms carrying out activities such as exchange between virtual digital assets and fiat currencies, exchange between one or more forms of virtual digital assets, transfer of virtual digital assets, safekeeping or administration of virtual digital assets or instruments enabling control over virtual digital assets, and participation in and provision of financial services related to an issuer’s offer and sale of a virtual digital asset, must register as a reporting entity with the Financial Intelligence Unit-India.
Implementation of know your customer and record-keeping measures: Reporting entity platforms such as CoinSwitch are now mandated to implement know your customer, record and monitor all transactions, and report to the Financial Intelligence Unit-India as and when any suspicious activity is detected.
Standardisation of norms: By extending anti-money laundering provisions to virtual digital assets, a framework has been created for virtual digital assets platforms to diligently monitor and take actions against malpractices, making the Indian virtual digital assets sector more transparent.
Compliance with global guidelines: The anti-money laundering provisions in India are in line with global guidelines put forward by the International Monetary Fund and the Financial Action Task Force.
Reconsideration of tax rates: With the mitigation of money laundering and terror financing risks through the PMLA notification, there is an opportunity for India to reconsider its tax treatment of virtual digital assets, which is currently an outlier both domestically and internationally.
How India can leverage G20 presidency?
Spearheading critical discussions on establishing a global regulatory framework for virtual digital assets.
Sharing its leadership and experience on this issue with other G20 nations.
Considering the steps taken by other G20 nations, such as Japan and South Korea’s establishment of a framework to license Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), and Europe’s passing of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation by the European Parliament.
Using the G20 platform to coordinate and provide greater oversight on the domestic virtual digital assets ecosystem, which could provide much-needed assurance to everyday users as well as regulators.
Conclusion
India’s measured approach to regulating virtual digital assets is a step in the right direction. With India’s presidency of the G-20, it is an opportunity to establish a global regulatory framework for virtual digital assets. A progressive regulatory framework will establish India’s virtual digital assets leadership and instill the animal spirit in India’s innovation economy.
Mains Question
Q. What do you understand by mean by Virtual Digital Assets? Establish a link between virtual digital assets and money laundering. Discuss how India is taking measures to regulate virtual assets?
| Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA), 2010
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central idea: The article discusses how the issues regarding India’s nuclear liability law are holding up the plan to build six nuclear power reactors in Maharashtra’s Jaitapur, which is the world’s biggest nuclear power generation site under consideration at present.
Law governing nuclear liability in India
Ans. Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA), 2010
Provision
Description
Purpose of CLNDA
To provide a speedy compensation mechanism for victims of a nuclear accident
Liability on operator
Strict and no-fault liability on the operator of the nuclear plant, where the operator will be held liable for damage regardless of any fault on its part
Amount of liability
In case of damage caused by an accident, the operator will have to pay ₹1,500 crore
Insurance or financial security for liability
The operator is required to cover liability through insurance or other financial security
Government liability in case of excessive claims
If the damage claims exceed ₹1,500 crore, the CLNDA expects the government to step in and has limited the government liability amount to the rupee equivalent of 300 million Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) or about ₹2,100 to ₹2,300 crore
The concept of Supplier Liability
The CLNDA introduced the concept of supplier liability in addition to operator liability in India’s civil nuclear liability law.
The international legal framework on civil nuclear liability, including the annex of the CSC, is based on the exclusive liability of the operator of a nuclear installation.
CLNDA Section 17(b) allows the operator of the nuclear plant to exercise the right of recourse against the supplier in case of a nuclear incident resulting from an act of the supplier or their employee, including the supply of defective equipment or materials.
Why is it the issue in Nuclear Deals?
Undue liability: Foreign and domestic suppliers have been hesitant to enter into nuclear deals with India due to the country’s unique liability law, which allows suppliers to be held liable for damages.
Lack of clarity: on how much insurance needs to be set aside in case of damage claims and the potential for unlimited liability have been major concerns for suppliers.
Unlimited liability: Suppliers have taken issue with two specific provisions in the law – Section 17(b) and Section 46 – which expose them to liability beyond that of the operator of the nuclear plant. Section 46 potentially allows civil liability claims to be brought against both the operator and suppliers through other civil laws such as the law of tort, further exposing suppliers to unlimited amounts of liability.
Existing projects in India
The Jaitapur nuclear project has been delayed for over a decade.
India has signed civil nuclear deals with the US, France, and Japan, but the only foreign presence in India is that of Russia in Kudankulam, which predates the nuclear liability law.
The government has stated that the Indian law is in line with the Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC).
Government’s stand
The Indian law is in line with the Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC).
However, legal experts have pointed out that suppliers can be sued if defective equipment is provided or if it can be established that the damage resulted from an act of intent.
It would not be sound public policy if the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) waived its right to recourse in the contract, despite the law providing for such recourse.
Conclusion
The issues regarding the liability law would be resolved before French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India, which was first scheduled for March but has been pushed to September.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Maosism
Mains level: LWE in India
Central idea: Ten security personnel returning from a counter-insurgency operation and a civilian driver were killed by Maoists, in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada.
Why discuss this?
Media seems to be confused with the terms and uses Maoists and Naxalities quite inter-changeably for Left Wing Extremism (LWE).
Current LWE situation in the country
According to the MHA, Maoist violence in the country has gone down by 77% since 2010.
The number of resultant deaths (security forces + civilians) has come down by 90% from the all-time high of 1,005 in 2010 to 98 in 2022.
Chhattisgarh accounted for more than a third of all Maoist-related violence in this period.
Naxalites vs. Maoists
Naxalism
Maoism
Originated as a rebellion against marginalisation of the poor forest dwellers and gradually against the lack of development and poverty at the local level in rural parts of eastern India
Originated in China as a form of communist theory derived from the teachings of Chinese political leader Mao Zedong
Began with an armed peasant uprising in Naxalbari village of Darjeeling district in West Bengal in 1967
Maoist Communist Centre (MCC) was formed in West Bengal around 1966
Originated from the split that took place in the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in 1967
A section of communist rebels retained a distinct identity after the Naxalbari uprising
Spread to lesser developed areas like Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh
Initially kept a low profile, shot into prominence in Bihar in mid-1980s when they killed 54 Rajputs in Dalelchak-Bhagaura village of Aurangabad
CPI-ML has been fighting elections in several states across India
Do not support elections
Focuses on mass organizations
Relies mainly on armed struggle
May have an armed wing, but not their sole reliance
Existence depends on their armed militia
Why have the Maoists carried out this attack in Chhattisgarh now?
Anti-state ops: The Maoists have carried out this attack as part of their strategy of heightened military activity and more attacks on security forces.
Revenge: CRPF conducts Tactical Counter Offensive Campaigns (TCOCs) from Feb to June yearly as monsoon makes offensive operations in the jungles difficult from July.
Why Chhattisgarh?
Dense forests: The absence of roads in the interiors of Chhattisgarh has stymied the operations of security forces.
Asylum for the offenders: Police of neighbouring states had pushed Maoists from their states to Chhattisgarh, making it a concentrated zone of Maoist influence.
Lack of governance: The minimal presence of the administration in the interiors of South Bastar has ensured that Maoists continue to have influence in the region and enjoy local support through a mix of fear and goodwill.
