Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Liptako-Gourma , Sahel Region
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Military leaders from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger signed a significant mutual defense pact known as the Liptako-Gourma Charter, marking a crucial step in addressing the security challenges plaguing the Sahel region.
Liptako-Gourma Charter
- This pact establishes the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and aims to create a framework for collective defense and mutual assistance among these nations.
- The Liptako-Gourma region, where the borders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger converge, has been severely affected by jihadist activities and instability in recent years.
- The AES seeks to combine military and economic efforts to confront common security threats and advance the well-being of their populations.
Liptako-Gourma Charter: Key Provisions
- Mutual Assistance: The charter binds signatory nations to provide mutual assistance, including military support, in the event of an attack on any one of them.
- Security Restoration: It specifically allows the use of armed force to restore and ensure security in the face of aggression.
- Rebellion Prevention: The agreement also commits the 3 countries to collaborate on preventing or resolving armed rebellions within their borders.
Need for such alliance
- Shared Objective: The primary focus of the alliance is to combat terrorism within the three member countries.
- Jihadist Insurgency: The Sahel region has grappled with a jihadist insurgency that initially emerged in northern Mali in 2012 and later spread to Burkina Faso and Niger in 2015.
Back2Basics: Sahel Region
- The Sahel is the ecoclimatic and biogeographic realm of transition in Africa between the Sahara to the north and the Sudanian savanna to the south.
- Having a semi-arid climate, it stretches across the south-central latitudes of Northern Africa between the Atlantic Ocean and the Red Sea.
- The name is derived from the Arabic term for “coast, shore”; this is explained as being used in a figurative sense in reference to the southern edge of the vast Sahara.
- The Sahel part includes from west to east parts of northern Senegal, southern Mauritania, central Mali, northern Burkina Faso, the extreme south of Algeria, Niger, the extreme north of Nigeria, the extreme north of Cameroon and the Central African Republic, central Chad, central and southern Sudan, the extreme north of South Sudan, Eritrea and the extreme north of Ethiopia.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gaja Dwar (Elephant Gate)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar raised the national flag at the Gaja Dwar (elephant gate) of India’s new Parliament building just days before its first session.
- This event sheds light on the symbolic importance of the Gaja Dwar and the other entrances in the new Parliament.
Gaja Dwar (Elephant Gate)
- Wisdom and Wealth: The new Parliament building features six entrances, each representing a distinct role. The Gaja Dwar, adorned with a sculpture of an elephant, guards the northern entrance. The elephant is a symbol of wisdom, wealth, intellect, memory, and embodies the aspirations of elected representatives in the democracy.
- Vastu Shastra: According to Vastu shastra, the northern direction is associated with planet Mercury, the source of higher intellect, and is presided over by Kubera, the god of wealth. Hence, the Gaja is placed at the northern entrance.
Cultural Symbolism
- Guardian Statues: All six entrances of the New Parliament Building feature red sandstone sculptures of auspicious animals known as “guardian statues.” These selections were made based on their significance in Indian culture, aesthetic appeal, positive qualities, and Vaastu Shastra principles.
- Asva (Horse): Positioned at the southern entrance, the vigilant horse symbolizes endurance, strength, power, and speed, reflecting the quality of governance.
- Garuda (Eagle-like Bird): The Garuda stands at the eastern ceremonial entrance, representing the aspirations of the people and the country’s administrators. In Vastu shastra, the east is associated with the rising sun, symbolizing hope, victory, and success.
- Makara (Mythological Aquatic Creature): Combining features of different animals, the Makara signifies unity in diversity among the nation’s people.
- Shardula (Mythological Creature): Regarded as the most powerful among all living beings, the Shardula symbolizes the strength of the country’s people.
- Hamsa (Swan): Located at the public entrance to the northeast, the Hamsa highlights the essential quality of discernment and self-realization, born of wisdom, in the nation’s people.
Ceremonial Entrances
- Three of these entrances are designed as ceremonial entrances, meant to welcome special guests and mark significant events.
- These entrances showcase Indian art, culture, ethos, and patriotism.
- They are named Gyan, Shakti, and Karma, representing the Indian knowledge system, patriotism, and artistic traditions, respectively.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lampedusa Island
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Italy’s Lampedusa Island witnessed an influx of migrants after around 7,000 people arrived from North Africa in two days.
- Nearly 1,26,000 migrants have arrived in Italy so far this year.
About Lampedusa Island
- Lampedusa is the largest of the Italian Pelagie Islands in the Mediterranean Sea.
- It is located approximately 205 km southwest of Sicily, 113 km east of Tunisia, and about 176 kmnorth of Libya.
- It is part of the Sicilian region of Italy and is situated in the southern Mediterranean Sea.
- It covers an area of approximately 20.2 square km (7.8 square miles).
- It has a rich history, with influences from various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Normans.
- During World War II, the island was of strategic importance and saw military activity.
- It has been part of Italy since 1860.
Migration and Humanitarian Issues
- Lampedusa has been a focal point for migration from Africa to Europe, with many migrants and refugees attempting to reach the island by boat.
- This has led to humanitarian challenges and efforts to manage immigration.
- The island has received international attention for its role in rescue operations and the reception of migrants and asylum seekers.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Basmati Rice
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- While scientific research often seems distant from practical outcomes, some less-celebrated success stories stand out.
- One such triumph is the transformation of India’s basmati rice industry, driven by scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi.
About Basmati Rice
- Basmati rice is a fragrant, long-grain rice variety primarily cultivated in the Indian subcontinent.
- It is native to the foothills of the Himalayas in India and Pakistan.
- Basmati rice is characterized by its long, slender grains that elongate further when cooked.
- Basmati rice is renowned for its natural aromatic fragrance, often described as nutty or floral.
- There are different Basmati rice varieties, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include Basmati 370, Basmati 386, and Basmati 1121.
- Basmati rice from certain regions, particularly Indian Basmati, has received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, indicating its specific geographical origin and quality.
[a] First Revolution
- Traditional Basmati Varieties: Until the late 1980s, Indian farmers primarily cultivated traditional basmati varieties with tall plants prone to lodging, resulting in low yields and long cultivation periods.
- Breakthrough with PB-1: In 1989, the IARI introduced Pusa Basmati-1 (PB-1), a crossbreed that combined traditional basmati grain attributes with high-yielding traits. PB-1 was more compact, sturdy, and offered improved yields and maturity times.
[b] The Second Revolution
- PB-1121’s Quality: The real revolution came in 2003 with the release of Pusa Basmati-1121 (PB-1121), which offered a different advantage. While yielding slightly less, it boasted exceptional grain quality, with elongated kernels that expanded impressively upon cooking.
- Market Impact: PB-1121’s grain quality allowed companies like KRBL Ltd. to create a lucrative export brand, making it a global favourite. This variety significantly contributed to India’s basmati rice exports.
[c] Third Revolution
- PB-1509: In 2013, the IARI introduced Pusa Basmati-1509 (PB-1509), a high-yielding variety with a shorter maturity period. This innovation allowed farmers to cultivate an extra crop, enhancing their economic prospects.
- Diverse Crop Combinations: PB-1509’s early maturity has enabled farmers to explore crop diversification, including potatoes, sunflowers, sweet corn, and onions, in addition to basmati rice.
Breeding for Disease Resistance
- Protecting Gains: IARI scientists have recently focused on preserving yield gains by incorporating disease-resistant genes into their improved basmati varieties.
- Marker-Assisted Selection: Genes for bacterial leaf blight and rice blast fungal disease resistance have been identified through marker-assisted selection techniques.
- New Varieties: The release of Pusa Basmati-1885 and Pusa Basmati-1847 in 2021 marked the introduction of varieties with “in-built resistance” against these diseases, reducing the need for chemical crop protection.
Risk Factors
- Market Dependency: Basmati rice lacks a minimum support price (MSP) and relies heavily on exports, with limited domestic consumption.
- Market Vulnerability: Despite its profitability, basmati farming is exposed to market fluctuations and government export policies. Recent restrictions highlight this vulnerability, affecting basmati farmers.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Moonquakes
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- A research utilized seismic data collected between 1976 and 1977, showcasing how the lunar lander left by the Apollo 17 astronauts might be causing seismic activity on the moon.
- The study emphasizes that these moonquakes are not the result of natural processes but stem from vibrations generated by the lunar module descent vehicle, which was placed on the moon’s surface in 1972.
About Apollo 17 Mission
- Apollo 17 was the final Apollo mission to the Moon, marking the sixth lunar landing.
- It was launched by December 6, 1972, with a night launch, which was unique in the Apollo program.
- This mission had specific scientific objectives, differentiating it from previous missions, and aimed to collect ancient highlands crustal material and investigate the possibility of recent lunar volcanic activity.
- Neil Armstrong, the first person to set foot on the lunar surface, went under the Apollo 11 mission in July 20, 1969.
Understanding Moonquakes
- Similarities to Earthquakes: Moonquakes share similarities with earthquakes as both involve seismological vibrations.
- Researchers have identified four types of moonquakes, three of which are relatively benign. Shallow moonquakes, the closest to the surface, are the most destructive.
- Deep Moonquakes: Occur approximately 700 kilometers below the lunar surface.
- Shallow Moonquakes: Take place at depths of only 20 to 30 kilometers, lasting up to 10 minutes.
- Vibrational Moonquakes: Typically result from meteorite impacts.
- Thermal Quakes: Caused by the moon’s crust expanding as it warms following subzero temperatures during the night.
- Moonquakes occur as often as every 27 days, primarily due to temperature fluctuations between lunar day and night, totalling approximately 7,000 moonquakes in a decade.
Moonquakes vs. Earthquakes
- Moonquakes are generally smaller in magnitude than earthquakes but are known for their extended duration.
- Shallow moonquakes recorded by Apollo astronauts have reached up to a magnitude of 5.5.
Human Lunar Landings
- Multiple countries have embarked on lunar missions, with India being the most recent in 2023, following the United States, Russia, and China.
- India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission included a seismometer, which detected a moonquake, providing valuable data for future analysis.
Significance of Monitoring Moonquakes
- Understanding moonquakes holds potential significance for future lunar missions, particularly if NASA establishes a permanent lunar outpost.
- Seismometers, like those used on the moon, are vital for comprehending lunar geology and ensuring the safety of future lunar explorers.
- Monitoring lunar seismic activity is crucial for designing experiments and missions aimed at unravelling the mysteries of Earth’s closest celestial neighbor.
- The moon presents a unique opportunity for in-depth planetary study beyond Earth.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Santiniketan
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Situated in West Bengal’s Birbhum district, the small town of Santiniketan has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- This is the place where Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore spent much of his life.
About Santiniketan
- Santiniketan, situated in Birbhum District, West Bengal, India, is an iconic cultural and heritage destination with a rich historical legacy.
- Its prominence is attributed to its association with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.
Significance of Santiniketan
- Rabindranath Tagore’s Home: Santiniketan served as the residence of Rabindranath Tagore, where he not only lived but also composed numerous literary works, encompassing songs, poems, and novels.
- Artistic Abode: The Santiniketan campus is adorned with magnificent sculptures, frescoes, murals, and paintings created by eminent artists like Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose, Ramkinkar, Binodbehari Mukhopadhyay, and others.
- Cultural Festivals: The broader Birbhum District, where Santiniketan is nestled, is renowned for its vibrant fairs and festivals. Notable celebrations include Poush Mela (December), Joydev Mela (January), Basanta Utsav (Holi) in March and the renowned mystic Baul Singers.
- Unique Events: Santiniketan hosts special cultural festivities during Bengali New Year and Rabindra Janmotsav (Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary) in the Bengali month of Boisakh, marked with great enthusiasm.
- Distinctive Festivals: The region observes distinctive festivals such as Briksharopan (festival of Planting Saplings) and Halakarshan (festival of Plowing the Fields) on the 22nd and 23rd days of Sravana (August), respectively. Additionally, Varshamangal, the festival of rains, is celebrated in August/September.
- Poush Mela: Santiniketan hosts the annual Poush Mela, commencing on the 7th day of the Poush month. While officially spanning three days, vendors may extend their stay throughout the month. The festival is renowned for live performances of Bengali folk music, particularly by bauls (traditional wandering minstrels), and showcases tribal dances like Santali.
West Bengal’s Presence on the World Heritage List
- Santiniketan is the second cultural symbol from West Bengal to join the prestigious UNESCO list.
- In 2021, UNESCO added ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ to its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, highlighting West Bengal’s rich cultural heritage.
Back2Basics: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
|
Description |
| UNESCO World Heritage Sites |
Landmarks or areas selected by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, scientific, or other significant value, legally protected by international treaties. |
| Importance |
World Heritage Sites represent collective and preservative interests of humanity, signifying remarkable accomplishments and intellectual history. |
| Selection Criteria |
Sites must be already-classified landmarks, unique and significant culturally or physically, such as ancient ruins, historical structures, cities, monuments, etc. |
| Conservation |
World Heritage Sites require practical conservation to protect them from risks like trespassing, uncontrolled access, or administrative negligence. |
| World Heritage Committee |
Selects and monitors World Heritage Sites, manages the World Heritage Fund, and provides financial assistance. Composed of 21 states parties elected for a four-year term. |
| Membership |
India is not a member of the World Heritage Committee. |
Note: “States parties” refer to the countries that have ratified the World Heritage Convention and participate in the decision-making process.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CEC and Other ECs Bill, 2023
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- After being passed in the Rajya Sabha on August 10, the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, has now moved to the Lok Sabha for approval.
CEC and Other EC Bill, 2023
- Objective: To amend constitutional provisions that currently equate Election Commissioners with Supreme Court judges, as well as addressing recent judicial rulings.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Salary and Service Conditions: The Bill proposes to align the salary, allowances, and service conditions of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and the two Election Commissioners with those of a Cabinet Secretary.
- Repealing the 1991 Act: The Bill’s passage would lead to the repeal of the Election Commission Act of 1991, where Election Commissioners enjoyed parity with Supreme Court judges in terms of remuneration.
- Potential Impact: While the stipulated salaries for Supreme Court judges and Cabinet Secretaries are similar, Supreme Court judges receive additional post-retirement benefits, raising concerns about the increased bureaucracy’s potential impact on the authority and independence of Election Commissioners.
Challenges to Independence
- Shifting Authority: The Election Commission’s primary role involves overseeing, directing, and controlling elections, as defined in Article 324 of the Constitution. Concerns arise that this control may shift if Election Commissioners, now equivalent in rank to Cabinet Secretaries, attempt to discipline Union Ministers for electoral violations.
- Current Status: Presently, when commissioners summon government officials, their orders are perceived as carrying the authority of a Supreme Court Judge, a status that may change if they are seen as equals to Cabinet Secretaries.
Preserving Independence and Equivalence to SC Judges
- Constitutional Safeguards: Article 324 (5) of the Constitution specifies that a CEC can only be removed in a manner similar to that of a Supreme Court judge, safeguarding the independence and equivalence of Election Commissioners to Supreme Court judges.
- Previous SC Ruling: The Bill also seeks to constitute a committee comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Cabinet Minister nominated by the PM to select Election Commission members. Notably, this committee excludes the CJI, in contrast to a top court ruling from March 2023.
Background: The SC Ruling
- Committee Formation: In March 2023, a five-judge Supreme Court bench unanimously ruled that a committee consisting of the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India (CJI) should select the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs).
- Founding Principles: The ruling emphasized that India’s founding fathers did not intend for the executive to exclusively dictate appointments to the Election Commission, striving for a more balanced selection process.
- PIL Origins: The case originated from a PIL filed in 2015, challenging the constitutionality of the President appointing ECI members based on the PM’s advice.
Impact on the 1991 Act
- Bill’s Amendment: The Bill aims to repeal the 1991 Act, which previously ensured that the CEC and ECs received salaries equivalent to Supreme Court judges.
- Revised Equality: Section 10 of the Bill specifies that the salary, allowances, and service conditions of the CEC and ECs will match those of the Cabinet Secretary, marking a departure from the 1991 Act’s provisions.
Various Concerns Raised
- Autonomy of the Election Commission: Concerns exist due to the selection panel’s composition, which includes a Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister instead of the CJI.
- Unanimous Decisions: Suggestions for unanimous committee decisions aim to address one-sided decision-making concerns.
- Constitutional Validity: Critics argue the Bill violates democratic principles.
- Conflicting SC Judgment: The Bill diverges from the Supreme Court’s ruling on the importance of an independent committee in selecting Election Commissioners.
- Past Electoral Integrity: Some believe Indian elections have been generally fair despite government involvement in Election Commissioner appointments.
- Consistency in Decision-Making: Concerns have been raised about the Commission’s decision consistency regarding Model Code of Conduct violations.
- Timing of Election Announcements: Questions surround election announcement timing in relation to government programs, raising concerns about political influence.
Conclusion
- Balancing Reforms: The Bill reflects efforts to reform election administration but raises concerns about preserving the Election Commission’s independence and its equivalence to Supreme Court judges.
- Evolution of Selection Process: The ongoing debate highlights the evolving process of selecting Election Commissioners, aiming to ensure fair and transparent appointments while safeguarding the institution’s autonomy.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM Vishwakarma scheme and its provisions
Mains level: key challenges faced by professionals engaged in traditional crafts and skills and significance of PM Vishwakarma scheme,
What’s the news?
- On September 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the PM Vishwakarma scheme in New Delhi on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti.
Central idea
- Recently launched, the PM Vishwakarma scheme, introduced during his Independence Day speech a month earlier, aims to support traditional craftsmen and economically marginalized communities, especially the OBC, while also serving as a strategic move ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
About Vishwakarma
- Vishwakarma, a revered figure in Hindu mythology, is regarded as the divine architect of the gods, a master craftsman, and a divine carpenter.
- He is celebrated as the patron deity of workers, artisans, and artists, responsible for crafting the gods’ weapons, cities, and chariots.
- The scheme takes its name from this emblematic figure, symbolizing the recognition and empowerment of skilled laborers.
What is the Vishwakarma scheme?
- The Vishwakarma scheme is a new government initiative fully funded by the central government and has a budgetary allocation of Rs 13,000 crore.
- The scheme is designed to address the challenges faced by professionals engaged in traditional crafts and skills, often passed down through generations within their families.
- This includes artisans such as carpenters, goldsmiths, masons, laundry workers, barbers, and others engaged in traditional crafts and skills.
- The scheme has ambitious coverage goals, aiming to support five lakh families in the first year and eventually reaching 30 lakh families over five years.
- It also seeks to integrate Vishwakarmas into both domestic and global value chains.
Eligibility Criteria
- Workers engaged in traditional crafts and skills are eligible.
- Emphasis is placed on individuals facing specific challenges, such as:
-
- Lack of access to modern tools and equipment.
- Absence of professional training for their work.
- Geographical distance from markets relevant to their craft.
- Limited availability of capital for investment in their trade.
- The scheme particularly targets marginalized and socially backward communities, including the Other Backward Classes (OBC) groups.
- Eligible individuals may include those who have acquired their skills through family traditions or apprenticeships. Top of Form
Benefits offered by the Vishwakarma Scheme
- Free Registration: Vishwakarma workers can register for free through Common Services Centers using the biometric-based PM Vishwakarma portal.
- Recognition: Workers will receive recognition through the PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
- Skill Upgradation: The scheme offers both basic and advanced training to improve the skills of artisans.
- Toolkit Incentive: Artists will receive a toolkit incentive of ₹15,000
- Collateral-Free Credit: Workers can avail of collateral-free credit support up to ₹1 lakh (first tranche) and ₹2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
- Digital Transactions Incentive: The scheme provides incentives for digital transactions and offers marketing support.
- Toolkit Booklet: To keep artisans informed about new technologies in their field, a toolkit booklet has been released in 12 Indian languages, accompanied by video elements.
- Additional benefits: Other benefits include a stipend of Rs 500 for skill training and Rs 1,500 to purchase modern tools.
Common challenges faced by professionals engaged in traditional crafts and skills
- Lack of Access to Modern Tools and Equipment: Many professionals in traditional crafts may not have access to modern tools and equipment, limiting the efficiency and quality of their work.
- Limited Professional Training: Traditional artisans often learn their skills through family traditions or apprenticeships, which may not provide formal professional training, potentially resulting in outdated techniques.
- Limited Capital for Investment: Traditional craftsmen may face difficulties in securing capital for purchasing materials, tools, or expanding their businesses, which can constrain their growth.
- Inadequate Recognition and Marketing: Traditional artisans may struggle with marketing and promoting their products effectively, leading to challenges in reaching a broader customer base.
- Competition from Mass Production: The rise of mass-produced goods can threaten traditional artisans who produce handcrafted items, impacting their livelihoods.
- Skills Preservation and Succession: Ensuring the preservation of traditional skills and passing them on to the next generation can be a challenge, as younger generations may not always be interested in pursuing these crafts.
- Financial Insecurity: Irregular income patterns common in traditional crafts can lead to financial instability, especially due to seasonal demand or market fluctuations.
Significance of the Vishwakarma Scheme
- Empowering Traditional Artisans: The Vishwakarma Scheme is significant as it aims to empower and uplift traditional artisans and craftsmen engaged in various trades. It recognizes their importance in India’s cultural and economic fabric.
- Social and Economic Inclusion: The scheme targets marginalized communities, especially the OBC groups, and provides them with opportunities for skill development and financial support, thereby promoting social and economic inclusion.
- Preserving Cultural Heritage: By supporting traditional crafts and skills, the scheme contributes to the preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage. It ensures that age-old craftsmanship is not lost to modernization.
- Recognition and Certification: The scheme provides recognition to artisans through the PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card, boosting their status and recognition in society.
- Financial Security: By offering collateral-free credit support and financial incentives, the scheme provides financial security to artisans, helping them invest in their crafts and improve their livelihoods.
- Digital Integration: Encouraging digital transactions and offering incentives for digital business practices promotes financial literacy and inclusion among traditional artisans.
- Integration with Global Value Chains: By aiming to integrate Vishwakarmas with domestic and global value chains, the scheme opens up opportunities for artisans to access broader markets and participate in the global economy.
Conclusion
- The PM Vishwakarma scheme represents a significant step toward empowering traditional craftsmen by providing them with the tools, training, and financial support they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. As this scheme unfolds, it holds the potential to transform the lives of countless skilled workers and contribute to the nation’s growth and development.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Burden of Non-communicable diseases
Mains level: India's progress in healthcare progress, NCD challenges and potential of AI
What’s the news?
- India, with its emerging leadership in global issues, faces the challenge of rising NCDs, including diabetes and heart diseases. The healthcare industry calls for collaboration to address this crisis, highlighting India’s progress in healthcare, its role as a Medical Value Travel hub, and its potential in AI-driven healthcare innovations.
Central idea
- In recent years, India has emerged as a prominent voice on the global stage, leading the way in critical areas such as climate change, electrification, manufacturing, and space exploration. India’s achievements include successfully landing a mission near the moon’s south pole and a successful G-20 presidency. However, as India aims to become a global leader, it must confront a looming health crisis of NCDs.
What are Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)?
- NCDs are also known as chronic diseases, which are not caused by infectious agents and are not transmissible from person to person.
- NCDs are long-lasting and progress slowly, typically taking years to manifest symptoms.
- Examples of NCDs include cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.
- These diseases are often caused by modifiable risk factors such as an unhealthy diet, a lack of physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use, and environmental factors.
- NCDs are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for around 70% of all deaths.
India’s NCD challenge
- Diabetes and Hypertension Prevalence: India is facing a high prevalence of NCDs, particularly diabetes and hypertension, which affect millions of people.
- Youth Health Issues: The burden of NCDs is increasingly affecting India’s youth, leading to heart attacks, cancer, respiratory problems, depression, and more.
- Economic Consequences: If unchecked, India’s NCD burden could lead to an economic cost of nearly $4 trillion by 2030. This poses a significant roadblock to India’s development and is compared to an age tax on the country’s demographic dividend.
India’s healthcare progress
- Improved Health Metrics: India has witnessed notable improvements in key health metrics.
- Infant Mortality: India has witnessed a remarkable improvement in infant mortality rates, which have decreased by four times from previous levels.
- Maternal Mortality: Maternal mortality rates have shown remarkable progress as well, decreasing by seven times from earlier rates.
- Average Life Expectancy: The average life expectancy of an Indian has increased by nearly 30%, rising from 55 years to over 70 years, reflecting the overall improvement in healthcare and quality of life in the country.
- World-Class Healthcare Infrastructure: India is described as having world-class healthcare infrastructure. Investments have been made in modern hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities to provide high-quality healthcare services.
- Clinical Excellence: India is noted for its pool of highly skilled clinical talent. These healthcare professionals are capable of delivering best-in-class clinical outcomes and providing healthcare services at a scale and cost that are favorable compared to the global average.
India as a Medical Value Travel (MVT) hub
- Global MVT Hub: India has emerged as a prominent global destination for MVT, attracting patients from around the world, particularly in specialized medical fields such as oncology, orthopedics, and robotic surgery.
- Advanced Medical Technology: India has invested in state-of-the-art medical technology and facilities, including the introduction of proton beam therapy for cancer treatment, positioning itself as a regional leader in cancer care.
- Highly Skilled Healthcare Professionals: India has a highly skilled and trained workforce of healthcare professionals known for their expertise in complex procedures, including joint replacements, spinal surgeries, and robotic-assisted surgeries.
- Minimally Invasive Techniques: Many medical procedures in India are conducted using minimally invasive techniques, attracting patients seeking precise and less invasive treatments.
- Cost-Effective Care: India offers cost-effective healthcare services, making it an attractive destination for patients seeking high-quality medical care at competitive prices.
- Growth Potential: India’s MVT sector has significant growth potential, capable of creating employment opportunities and contributing to foreign exchange earnings.
India’s potential for harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform the healthcare sector
- AI in Healthcare Transformation: AI is rapidly reshaping healthcare worldwide, and India is poised to play a leading role in this transformation. India has a wealth of talented data scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals capable of driving innovation in AI-driven healthcare solutions.
- Diagnostic Advancements: AI can significantly impact diagnostics by enhancing accuracy and efficiency in medical diagnoses. AI-powered tools can lead to faster treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes. Moreover, AI can aid in predicting disease outbreaks, analyzing healthcare data, optimizing treatment plans, expediting healthcare procedures, and revolutionizing drug discovery.
- India’s Progress in AI: India has already made strides in the application of AI in healthcare. However, to maintain and strengthen its leadership position, India must continue to invest in research and development, encourage collaborations between academia and industry, and create an ecosystem that fosters innovation.
- Economic Potential: The AI expenditure in the country is expected to reach $11.78 billion by 2025 and could contribute $1 trillion to India’s economy by 2035.
Way forward
- AI-Driven Healthcare Transformation: India should fully embrace the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. This involves integrating AI-powered solutions for diagnostics, treatment optimization, and healthcare procedures.
- Investment in R&D: India should continue and increase investment in research and development to drive healthcare innovation. Funding and supporting research initiatives will be crucial for advancements in healthcare technology.
- Collaboration Between Academia and Industry: Strengthening partnerships between academic institutions and the healthcare industry is essential. These collaborations can expedite the application of research findings to practical healthcare solutions.
- Nurturing an Innovation Ecosystem: India should create an ecosystem conducive to healthcare innovation. This includes supporting healthcare startups, offering incentives for innovation, and facilitating the growth of healthcare technology companies.
- Economic Potential of AI: Recognizing the economic potential of AI in healthcare, India should actively invest in AI-driven healthcare solutions. The expected growth in AI expenditure presents an opportunity to contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
- Community Health Focus: Prioritizing community health is essential. Initiatives aimed at improving public health, creating awareness about preventive measures, and addressing healthcare disparities should be emphasized.
- Public-Private Collaboration: Collaboration between the public and private sectors is critical. Joint efforts can lead to infrastructure development, the promotion of medical tourism, and the establishment of international healthcare accreditation bodies.
- Leadership in NCD Prevention: India should take a leading role in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Comprehensive strategies, including prevention, early detection, and effective management, should be at the forefront of healthcare efforts.
Conclusion
- India stands at a critical juncture in its healthcare journey. By reimagining its healthcare model, India can position itself as a global leader in medical value travel, a powerhouse in AI-driven healthcare solutions, and a trailblazer in combating NCDs. With concerted efforts and a commitment to excellence, India can forge a healthier and more prosperous future for generations to come, truly realizing its destiny as a global leader.
Also read:
India’s Rising Burden of Diabetes: Urgent Actions Needed
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: British and Indian Parliamentary model
Mains level: Indian Parliamentary model, increasing leniency towards disruption, consequences and solutions
What’s the news?
- Disruptive behavior within India’s Parliament is on the rise, leading to concerns about declining decorum and public perception, as well as its impact on governance.
Central idea
- India’s Parliament faces a decorum crisis with growing disruptive behavior during special sessions, raising concerns of impending chaos. Lawmakers from various parties resort to disruption instead of constructive debate. It’s high time to address this issue and seek inspiration from the British parliamentary model, which once inspired our nation’s leaders.
Initial Pride in the Parliamentary System
- Britain’s Westminster model: In the early years following India’s independence, Indian politicians took great pride in the parliamentary system they had adopted. This system was modeled after Britain’s Westminster model.
- Longing for Denied Benefits: India’s nationalists were determined to experience the democracy they had long been denied under British colonial rule. They believed that the British parliamentary system was the best model, and its adoption was a significant step toward achieving democratic governance.
- Attlee’s Proposal: When Clement Attlee, a future British Prime Minister, visited India as part of a constitutional commission, he suggested the merits of a presidential system over a parliamentary one. However, this proposal was met with shock and horror by his Indian interlocutors, who strongly favored the parliamentary system.
- Admiration for British Parliamentary Traditions: Many of India’s first-generation parliamentarians had received their education in England and held a deep admiration for British parliamentary traditions. They found authenticity in emulating these traditions.
- Continuation of British Practices: India’s parliamentary practices continued to mirror British traditions. For example, Indian MPs still thump their desks in approbation, a practice similar to desk-thumping in the British Parliament. When voting on bills, the affirmative call is typically aye rather than yes, although hanh is gaining popularity on some Treasury benches.
- A Compliment from a British Prime Minister: In an instance where an Anglophile Communist MP, Professor Hirendranath Mukherjee, proudly recounted how a visiting British Prime Minister, Anthony Eden, had remarked that the Indian Parliament was in every respect like the British one, This comment was regarded as a compliment, even by a Communist, and it emphasized the authenticity with which India had adopted British parliamentary traditions.
Departure from British parliamentary traditions and increasing leniency towards disruption
- Change Over Decades: Over the course of seven and a half decades since India gained independence, significant changes have occurred in the functioning of its parliamentary system.
- Emergence of Boisterous Behavior: India’s natural inclination towards boisterousness and assertiveness has reemerged in its legislative proceedings. This shift marks a departure from the decorum and traditions of the British parliamentary system.
- Disruptions in State Assemblies: Some state assemblies have already experienced chaotic scenes, including instances where furniture was overturned, microphones were ripped out, and legislators threw slippers. Fisticuffs and torn garments have also been observed during scuffles among politicians in these assemblies.
- Code of Conduct Violations: In the national legislature, the code of conduct, which is imparted to all newly-elected MPs, is frequently breached. This includes violations such as speaking out of turn, shouting slogans, waving placards, and marching into the well of the house.
- Pepper Spray Incident: The situation reached an extreme point when a protesting MP released pepper spray within the parliamentary chamber. This act resulted in the hospitalization of some MPs and caused discomfort for the then-Speaker.
- Impunity for Rule-Breaking: Lawmakers have exhibited a remarkable level of impunity in flouting the rules they are elected to uphold. Despite instances of MPs charging up to the presiding officer’s desk, wrenching his microphone, and tearing up his papers, they have often been quietly reinstated to their positions after a few months, accompanied by muted apologies.
Concerns and consequences of disruptive behavior in India’s Parliament
- Obstruction of Meaningful Debate: Disruptive behavior obstructs meaningful debate on important issues, preventing critical legislation from being discussed and passed.
- Weakening of Governance: Prolonged disruptions impede the government’s ability to implement policies and address the needs of the population, leading to weakened governance.
- Erosion of Parliamentary Decorum: Disruptive behavior has led to a noticeable erosion of parliamentary decorum and traditional standards of conduct.
- Negative Public Perception: Disruptions have contributed to a negative public perception of the Parliament, potentially leading to disillusionment with the democratic process.
- Decline in Accountability: Leniency towards disruptive behavior has undermined the accountability of elected representatives.
- Loss of Legislative Productivity: Frequent disruptions have resulted in a loss of valuable legislative time and productivity.
- Threat to Democracy: The disruptive behavior poses a threat to India’s democratic system by hindering the functioning of democratic institutions and diminishing their credibility.
British parliamentary techniques that the Indian parliament must learn and implement
- In the British parliamentary system, Opposition Day allows the opposition parties to select specific policy areas or issues they want to bring to the floor of the House for debate.
- This practice provides the opposition with a designated platform to express their views, criticize government policies, and propose alternatives.
- It promotes constructive debate on matters of political significance and ensures that the government must address issues raised by the opposition.
- Prime Minister’s Question Time (PMQs):
- PMQs is a significant and widely watched parliamentary event in the United Kingdom.
- During PMQs, MPs have the opportunity to question the Prime Minister about various issues.
- This practice enhances transparency, accountability, and scrutiny of the government’s actions and decisions.
- It is known for spirited exchanges and serves as a key aspect of the British parliamentary system’s tradition of executive accountability.
What else?
- Speaker’s Role: The Speaker should reconsider the frequent rejection of adjournment motions and the practice of grouping proposed amendments to bills for voice votes without discussion.
Conclusion
- India’s Parliament stands at a crossroads, with its credibility and functionality at stake due to persistent disruptions. By adopting some of the practices of the British parliamentary system and ensuring a more inclusive and accountable parliamentary culture, India can reinvigorate its democratic institutions and preserve the sanctity of its democracy. It is imperative for the government and the opposition to come together on these fundamental matters to salvage the integrity of the Parliament and the nation’s democracy.
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