Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kanwar Lake
Central Idea
- Kawar Lake, Bihar’s only Ramsar Site, is experiencing a significant decrease in water levels and degradation.
- However, it is drying up due to negligence.
About Kanwar Lake/ Kabartal Wetland
- The Kanwar Lake is Asia’s largest oxbow lake situated in the Begusarai district of Bihar.
- It is a residual oxbow lake, formed due to the meandering of Gandak River, a tributary of Ganga.
- It was declared a Ramsar site in 2020, making it the first wetland in Bihar to be included in the Ramsar convention.
- This lake draws water from the confluence of the Gandak, the Bia and the Kareh river – is situated near Manjhaul, 22 km northwest of Begusarai, the district headquarters.
Various threats to Kanwar Lake
- Challenges include migratory bird hunting, agricultural activities around wetland areas, and government policies related to wetland management and conservation.
- This decline has negatively impacted the livelihoods of around 20,000 Nishad community members in nearby villages who depend on fishing.
Bihar’s Wetland Potential
- Bihar possesses a substantial area of wetlands, covering around 4.4% of its total geographical area, according to data from ISRO.
- Despite its wetland potential, Bihar has only one recognized Ramsar site out of a total of 75 in India.
Potential Wetlands
- Bihar has proposed several wetlands for Ramsar designation, including Kusheshwarsthan, Barela, Goga Bil, Nagiand Nakti dams, Udaipur Lake, Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, and Gokul Reservoir.
- These wetlands are home to a range of wildlife, including migratory birds and endangered species like dolphins.
Back2Basics:
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Ramsar Convention |
| Purpose |
International treaty aimed at conserving and promoting the sustainable use of wetlands. |
| Establishment |
Established on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran. |
| Participating Countries |
171 contracting parties (countries) as of September 2021. |
| India and Ramsar Convention |
The first Ramsar Site in India, the Chilika Lake in Odisha, was designated in 1981. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CAR-T Cell Therapy
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has granted market authorization to CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T) cell therapy, a groundbreaking cancer treatment developed by ImmunoACT, an IIT-Bombay spin-off.
- This authorization paves the way for its commercial introduction in India.
About CAR-T Cell Therapy
What is it?
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- CAR-T cell therapy stands for chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy.
- It is a type of cancer immunotherapy that uses the patient’s own T cells, genetically modified in a laboratory to enhance their ability to locate and destroy cancer cells.
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How does it work?
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- T cells are white blood cells responsible for identifying and fighting illness and infection.
- Each T cell has a receptor that can recognize antigens (proteins or molecules recognized by the immune system).
- Cancer cells may have antigens that the immune system does not recognize as abnormal, allowing cancer to evade the immune response.
- CAR-T cells are genetically engineered in the lab to express a new receptor that can bind to cancer cells and effectively kill them.
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Therapy Process
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The process involves several steps, including:
1. Collecting T Cells: Blood is drawn from the patient’s arm, and T cells are separated from the blood using an apheresis machine.
2. Engineering T Cells: In a laboratory, the T cells are modified by adding a manufactured CAR, and they are allowed to multiply and grow.
3. Infusing CAR-T Cells: Once enough CAR-T cells are prepared, they are injected back into the patient’s arm.
- Chemotherapy may be recommended before CAR-T cell infusion to enhance treatment effectiveness.
- The process can take place in an outpatient infusion center or a hospital setting.
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Cancers Treated
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- CAR-T cell therapy is effective against certain types of cancer, especially when other treatments are ineffective.
- It is currently FDA-approved for treating haematological malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: DNA Methylation
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) is spearheading a groundbreaking research endeavour called the “Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)”.
- This integrated genomics and epigenomics study aims to unravel the genetic underpinnings of NCD’s prevalent in diverse populations, including South Asians.
Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)
- DEEP is an integrated genomics and epigenomics study focused on understanding the genetic factors behind Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in diverse populations, including South Asians.
- The project spans five years.
- It aims to uncover the impact of genomic and environmental diversity on disease risk observed in people worldwide, including those in Asia, Africa, North America, and South America.
- It will study individuals from various genetic and environmental contexts to identify DNA methylation patterns contributing to disease risk in each context.
- It will develop software, infrastructure, and conduct advanced statistical analyses to create new resources.
- This will complement international health and genetics databases and examine trends in DNA methylation variation.
DNA Methylation
- DNA methylation is a process in which chemical groups attach to DNA, regulating the activation and deactivation of genes.
- This epigenetic modification helps the body respond to environmental signals and contributes to overall health and disease status.
- Understanding the relationships between DNA methylation, genetics, and the environment is crucial for comprehending the pathways governing health, disease, and their consequences.
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Significance of this initiative
- This research will enable the identification of disease-causing mechanisms that are common worldwide and those which are unique to particular groups or regions.
- It will help with answering questions such as whether medicines developed in one part of the world will be effective for all.
- Ultimately the DEEP study hopes to enable targeted interventions or treatments and reduce global health disparity and inequity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MRTP Act
Mains level: Abortion vs. Mothers Bodily Rights
Central Idea
- CJI DY Chandrachud said that India’s abortion law was liberal, pro-choice and far ahead of other countries.
- SC is hearing the case of a married woman who wants to medically terminate her 26-week pregnancy.
- This raises critical questions about a woman’s autonomy in deciding to abort and the existing legislative framework.
Woman’s Perspective
- Unplanned Pregnancy: A 27-year-old married woman, already a mother of two, contends that her pregnancy was unplanned.
- Financial Strain: She argues that her family’s income is inadequate to support another child, and she is undergoing treatment for postpartum depression after her second child’s birth.
Court Decisions and AIIMS Report
- Initial Approval: A two-judge Bench initially allowed the termination, reasoning that an unplanned pregnancy due to contraceptive failure is akin to a forced pregnancy, permitting abortion up to 24 weeks.
- AIIMS Concern: AIIMS, Delhi, raised questions about whether foeticide (stopping the foetal heart) could be performed before termination since the foetus is currently viable.
- Three-Judge Bench: The case was transferred to a three-judge Bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud, which called for a fresh medical report to assess the foetus’s health and the woman’s medical condition.
Understanding the Abortion Law
- Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act (MTP Act): The MTP Act allows termination of pregnancy in three stages.
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- Termination up to 20 weeks with the advice of one doctor.
- Pregnancy at 20-24 weeks requires the opinion of two registered medical practitioners, under specific conditions.
- After 24 weeks, a medical board in approved facilities assesses the termination based on substantial foetal abnormalities.
Court’s History of Allowing Late-Term Abortion
- Several Precedents: The court has previously permitted terminations beyond 26 weeks in various cases, often in cases of rape or consensual relationships.
- Marital Status Factor: The current case distinguishes itself by the woman’s marital status, implying that the conception is consensual and not a forced pregnancy.
Balancing Rights: Woman vs. Unborn Child
- Ongoing Debate: The CJI-led Bench oscillates between prioritizing a woman’s rights over abortion and the need to balance the rights of the unborn child.
- Liberal Approach: India’s law on abortion is considered liberal and pro-choice, with courts often favouring the woman’s autonomy.
Comparisons with International Standards
- Foetal Viability: The concept of “foetal viability” as a benchmark for abortion approval is relatively new in India. It aligns with international standards.
- US Roe v Wade: The landmark 1973 US Supreme Court case, Roe v Wade, allowed abortion until foetal viability. In 1973, viability was at 28 weeks, now lower due to scientific advancements.
- Criticism of Indian Law: Some critics argue that India’s law lacks clarity as the decision to terminate after 20 weeks falls on doctors rather than the women, leading to frequent court interventions.
Autonomy vs. Unborn Child’s Rights
- Legislative Gap: While the Indian legal framework supports a woman’s autonomy in reproductive decisions, gaps persist, especially concerning last-minute interventions.
- Ethical Debate: The Indian law leans toward women’s autonomy, but ethical dilemmas arise regarding the rights of the unborn child.
- Legal Precedents: Cases like Nand Kishore Sharma versus Union of India have debated the constitutionality of the MTP Act concerning the right to life of an unborn child.
Conclusion
- The ongoing Supreme Court case highlights the intricate legal and ethical considerations surrounding abortion in India.
- While the law supports a woman’s right to choose, the challenge lies in finding a delicate balance between individual autonomy and the rights of the unborn child.
- As the court grapples with this complex case, it underscores the need for continued legal discourse and potential legislative amendments to address evolving reproductive rights issues.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Laptop Imports Ban
Central Idea
- In August, the centre announced its intention to subject laptops, tablets, computers, and related products to a licensing regime starting from November 1.
- However, it has now clarified that India will not impose licensing requirements on laptop and computer imports but will instead monitor their inbound shipments.
Lapop Import Restrictions: A Backgrounder
- Import Restrictions: In August, India imposed import restrictions on various IT hardware products to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce imports, particularly from countries like China.
- Industry Concerns: The IT hardware industry expressed concerns following the initial licensing announcement.
- Security and Domestic Manufacturing: The government cited security concerns and the desire to stimulate domestic manufacturing as the reasons for the licensing conditions.
Import Statistics
- Import Values: India imports approximately $7-8 billion worth of IT hardware products annually.
- Recent Trends: Import values for personal computers, including laptops, decreased from $7.37 billion in 2021-22 to $5.33 billion in 2022-23. Imports of certain data processing machines also saw a decline.
- Production-Linked Incentive Scheme: In May, the government approved the Production Linked Incentive Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware with a budgetary outlay of ₹17,000 crore. A similar scheme for IT hardware was approved in February 2021.
India’s Dependency on China
- Critical Dependency: According to a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), India has significant dependency on China for various products, including laptops and mobile phones.
- Government Initiatives: To reduce this dependency, the government has introduced measures such as the production-linked incentive scheme and increased customs duties on electronic components.
Conclusion
- India’s decision to shift from a licensing regime to monitoring for laptop and computer imports aims to balance its goals of reducing import dependency and promoting domestic manufacturing.
- However, there is a need to ensure smoother transition for businesses and trade.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key facts
Mains level: India and Maldives ties, challenges, recent developments and future prospect
What’s the news?
- Recent changes in the Maldives’ leadership have raised questions about the future of its relationship with India.
Central idea
- While leadership changes may bring some alterations, the fundamental ties between the two nations remain intact. From the era of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom to the present day, India and the Maldives have maintained a close and friendly relationship, with occasional challenges. Therefore, it’s essential not to rush to judgment regarding the current situation.
Background
- Historical Ties: The relationship between India and the Maldives is deep-rooted. From Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s leadership until today, both nations have maintained a close bond, despite occasional hiccups.
- Geographical Proximity: The Maldives spans 90,000 sq km, mostly covered by the sea, with the remaining land spread across 1,200 islands. Situated just 70 nautical miles away, India has always been the Maldives’ closest ally. As Ibn Khaldun stated, geography is destiny.
Challenges in the Maldives
“Maldives, despite its 98% literacy rate, faces various contradictions that pose challenges to democratic governance.”
- Constitutional Restrictions: The Maldivian constitution bars anyone who isn’t a Sunni Muslim from becoming a citizen. This can be seen as restrictive and exclusive, which may not align with broader principles of democratic governance.
- Nascent Civil Society: The civil society in the Maldives is still emerging. This means the public structures and mechanisms that can hold the government accountable and ensure the active participation of citizens in the governance process might be underdeveloped.
- Drug Abuse: The Maldives has been grappling with an increasing problem of drug abuse, which poses social and health-related challenges.
- Distorted Labor Market: This implies there might be imbalances in employment opportunities, perhaps with certain sectors having too many workers and others having too few, or challenges related to wages and workers’ rights.
- Growing Inequality: Despite its successes in areas like tourism, the Maldives faces growing economic disparities among its population.
- Foreign Influence and Debt: China’s policy of extending debt and subsequently interfering in the internal politics of the Maldives, as well as supporting conservative elements, poses challenges. This not only can lead to a debt crisis but also threatens the democratic progression of the country.
- Legacy of Controlled Regime: The influence of the Gayoom years and the alignment with China by certain elements for narrow gains might not serve the broader interests of the Maldivian nation in the long term.
India’s Role
- Historically: From Buddhism’s prevalence in the Maldives to its dependence on India during the British protectorate era (1887–1965), India has always played an influential role.
- Economically: The State Bank of India has been instrumental in boosting the Maldives’ tourism economy and remains the largest bank there.
- Assistance: Whether during the 1988 coup, the 2004 tsunami, or the 2014 water crisis, India has always been the first to assist. India also supplies essential items in bulk and contributes significantly to the Maldivian education and health sectors.
- Defence and Security: India has been a robust defense partner, conducting joint exercises and providing security assistance.
India’s Concerns Regarding the Maldives
- China’s Growing Influence: China’s increasing role in the Maldives is driven by debt financing. This kind of influence, particularly through debt traps, could lead to the consequent hegemony of China in the region, which is a matter of concern for India given the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean Region.
- Internal Interference by External Powers: China’s policy of interfering in the internal politics of the Maldives, especially its support for conservative elements, is worrisome for India. This could hinder the development of a robust democracy in the Maldives and potentially impact the bilateral relationship between India and the Maldives.
- Economic Interests: With projects like greater Male connectivity and being a major supplier of essential goods to the Maldives, India has vested economic interests. Any disruption or potential shift in trade relations can impact India’s economic engagement.
- Security and Defense Cooperation: The defense cooperation isn’t just about tangible assets like helicopters but extends to joint exercises, training, and disaster management. Any shift in Maldivian policies that affects this cooperation can be concerning.
- Legacy of Assistance: India’s role as a primary responder to Maldivian crises and its consistent support over the years hold significance. India would be concerned if such efforts and goodwill aren’t recognized or are undermined by external influences.
- President Designate Mohamed Muizzu: Mohamed Muizzu, described as a Western-educated engineer, is expected to take over the reins of leadership. His past roles and his education may influence the Maldives’ direction, both domestically and in terms of foreign relations.
- Former President Yameen’s Situation: Yameen’s shift from jail to house arrest indicates changing political dynamics within the Maldives. Given that Yameen’s tenure was marked by a pro-China policy, any change related to his influence might hint at a shift in foreign policy alignment.
Conclusion
- India’s unwavering commitment has significantly shaped the Maldives, and any impulsive decisions could be detrimental for the latter. Given the deep historical ties and mutual interests, it’s crucial for the new leadership to recognize and value the long-standing bond. As history has often shown, taking relationships for granted can have grave consequences.
Also read:
The Maldives, the evolution of a democracy
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Gaza conflict and its impact on the geopolitics of the region
What’s the news?
- The recent series of deadly attacks launched by Hamas on Israel has had profound implications for the dynamics of the Middle East.
Central idea
- The recent lethal attacks launched by Hamas on Israel on October 7 have had significant repercussions, particularly in the realm of Israeli-Saudi relations and the broader Middle East geopolitical landscape. These attacks have effectively overturned Israeli efforts, backed by the United States, to foster normalization of relations with Arab states while neglecting Palestinian concerns.
Israeli Diplomacy
- Normalization Agreements: Israel, under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pursued a strategy of normalizing relations with Arab countries. This strategy aimed to establish diplomatic ties with Arab nations that had historically been hostile or distant from Israel. Notable agreements included those with Egypt and Jordan, which were signed in the late 20th century.
- The Abrahamic Accords: A significant milestone in Israeli diplomacy was the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020. These agreements, brokered by the United States, led to the normalization of relations between Israel and several Arab countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Sudan, and later Morocco. These agreements marked a shift in regional dynamics and signified growing acceptance of Israel in the Arab world.
- Strategic Goals: Israel’s diplomatic efforts aimed to enhance its security, strengthen its regional influence, and broaden economic and technological cooperation with Arab states. These agreements also served to isolate Iran, which was seen as a common regional rival.
The role of the United States
- Mediator and Facilitator: The United States has historically played a central role as a mediator in Israeli-Arab conflicts. It has facilitated peace talks, negotiations, and agreements between Israel and its Arab neighbors. The U.S. has acted as a neutral party, using its diplomatic clout to bring parties to the negotiating table.
- Broker of the Abraham Accords: In the case of the Abraham Accords, the United States, led by the Trump administration, took a proactive role in brokering these agreements. The U.S. actively encouraged Arab nations to establish diplomatic ties with Israel and provided political support and incentives to make these deals happen.
- Strategic Interests: The United States had strategic interests in promoting Israeli-Arab normalization. These interests included strengthening its regional alliances, countering Iranian influence, and promoting stability in the Middle East.
- Security Assistance: The U.S. has provided substantial military aid and security assistance to Israel, reinforcing its position in the region and ensuring its qualitative military edge. This support has been a cornerstone of the U.S.-Israel relationship.
The Gaza War and Its Ramifications
- Reemphasis on the Palestinian Issue: The Gaza War has once again thrust the Palestinian issue to the forefront of regional politics. It has drawn attention to the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the unresolved grievances of the Palestinian people.
- Regional Instability: The conflict in Gaza has contributed to regional instability and heightened tensions. It has the potential to spill over into neighboring countries and exacerbate existing regional conflicts.
- Impact on Israeli-Saudi Normalization Efforts: The Gaza War has had significant implications for Israel’s efforts to normalize relations with Arab states, particularly Saudi Arabia. It has disrupted the momentum of normalization, as Saudi Arabia, like other Arab nations, has faced domestic pressure to condemn Israeli actions in Gaza.
- Saudi Arabia’s Shift: Saudi Arabia’s response to the Gaza War represents a notable shift in its stance. While previously open to normalizing relations with Israel, the kingdom has now emphasized the importance of addressing Palestinian interests and rights. This change in stance may have lasting implications for Saudi foreign policy and its relations with both Israel and the United States.
- Iran’s Role: Some observers have speculated about Iran’s role in instigating Hamas attacks to undermine Saudi-Israeli normalization efforts. However, it is essential to note that Saudi-Iran relations had already undergone a degree of normalization before the Gaza War, reducing the likelihood of Iranian involvement as a primary motivator.
- Humanitarian Crisis: The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with casualties, displacement, and infrastructure damage. The international community has been called upon to address the immediate humanitarian needs of the Palestinian population.
- Impact on Regional Alliances: The Gaza War has influenced the alignment of regional alliances, with countries taking positions based on their historical relationships and geopolitical interests. This could potentially reshape alliances and cooperation in the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Foreign Policy
- Pursuit of Strategic Autonomy: Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a growing willingness to pursue an independent foreign policy. The kingdom has sought to assert its strategic autonomy and reduce its reliance on traditional allies, including the United States.
- Refusal to Align with Anti-China or Anti-Iran Coalitions: Saudi Arabia has rejected U.S. efforts to build global anti-China coalitions and regional anti-Iran alliances. Despite U.S. pressure, the kingdom has maintained its own strategic interests and relationships.
- Stronger Ties with China: Saudi Arabia has deepened its relations with China, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, and energy cooperation. The kingdom recognizes China’s increasing global influence and sees it as an important economic partner.
- Multifaceted Engagement Across Asia: Saudi Arabia has actively pursued multifaceted relationships across Asia, including with countries like India and Pakistan. These engagements encompass economic, diplomatic, and security cooperation, reflecting the kingdom’s aim to expand its influence in the Asian region.
Way forward: Concrete Actions for Palestinian Interests
- Commitment to a Two-State Solution: Both Israel and the Palestinian leadership should unequivocally reaffirm their commitment to a two-state solution, recognizing the need for an independent and viable Palestinian state alongside Israel.
- Freeze Settlement Expansion: Israel should halt all settlement construction activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Settlement expansion remains a significant obstacle to peace and threatens the territorial integrity of a future Palestinian state.
- Cessation of Violence: All parties involved must commit to ending violence and terrorism. This includes a complete halt to rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel and measures to prevent violence on both sides. A comprehensive ceasefire agreement should be sought.
- Support for Palestinian Elections: The international community should support transparent and inclusive Palestinian elections to strengthen the legitimacy of the Palestinian leadership. These elections should adhere to international standards.
- Address Core Issues: Negotiations should address core issues such as the status of Jerusalem, the right of return for Palestinian refugees, and the delineation of borders for a future Palestinian state. These issues must be resolved through peaceful negotiations based on international principles.
- International Mediation and Oversight: International actors, including the Quartet, should actively mediate and oversee the peace process to ensure accountability, adherence to agreements, and a fair and balanced negotiation environment.
Conclusion
- The Gaza conflict has had a profound impact on the geopolitics of the region, particularly by reemphasizing the importance of addressing Palestinian concerns. While Israel’s efforts to normalize relations with Arab states face challenges, Saudi Arabia’s renewed focus on the Palestinian cause marks a significant shift in its foreign policy approach, underscoring the evolving dynamics in the Middle East.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key facts, Government initiative's
Mains level: Water and employment link, women's role, challenges and potential
What’s the news?
- Water, a vital resource for life, is poised to play a central role in the transition to a green economy. This transition brings not only environmental benefits but also the potential to drive significant employment growth, particularly for women.
Central idea
- Water is essential for a green economy, offering immense potential for job generation, particularly for women. Women globally are pivotal players in water management, yet their expertise remains underutilized. As green jobs surge in India, how can women’s roles in water management be enhanced and recognized?
Backdrop
- Green Jobs in Water Management: These jobs contribute to preserving or restoring environmental quality. A promising estimate by the International Labour Organisation posits that jobs in this sector could escalate from 3 million (2020) to 19 million by 2030 in India.
- Water and Global Employment: A 2016 UN report underscores that nearly 1.5 billion people, or half the global workforce, are in water-related sectors. Water thus fosters both direct (managing resources, infrastructure, services) and indirect jobs.
Harse reality
- A World Bank evaluation of 122 water projects found that those involving women were six to seven times more effective than those that did not.
- Despite this evidence, women constitute less than 17 percent of the paid workforce in water, sanitation, and hygiene in developing economies, and women’s representation as technical experts remains disproportionately low.
The Role of Women in Efficient Water Management
- Household Water Management: Women are typically responsible for managing water within households. They oversee water collection, storage, and distribution for domestic use, ensuring a safe and sustainable water supply for their families.
- Community Engagement: In many communities, women actively engage in the management of communal water sources. They take the lead in maintaining these sources, making sure they remain accessible and functional for all community members.
- Agriculture: Women play a crucial role in agriculture, which is a major consumer of water resources. They are involved in activities such as irrigation, crop cultivation, and livestock care. Their knowledge of efficient water use is vital for agricultural sustainability.
- Environmental Stewardship: Women often act as environmental stewards, safeguarding local ecosystems, rivers, lakes, and forests. Their traditional practices and knowledge contribute to the preservation of water resources and the environment.
- Community Development: Women actively participate in community development projects related to water infrastructure, sanitation, and hygiene. They serve on water and sanitation committees, helping plan and implement projects that benefit the entire community.
- Innovative Solutions: Women frequently devise innovative solutions to address water-related challenges. They may create rainwater harvesting techniques, sustainable farming practices, or household-level water treatment methods, enhancing water resource management.
Unlocking Opportunities through Government Programs
- Traditionally, women’s involvement in water management has been limited to voluntary or part-time roles, often at the lowest level of decision-making.
- Recent government initiatives in India, such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and Jal Shakti Abhiyan, present an opportunity to expand women’s participation in water management and provide access to decent work.
- These programs prioritize community ownership and support both direct and indirect jobs.
The Potential of Jal Jeevan Mission
- The Jal Jeevan Mission, in particular, has the potential to generate a substantial number of jobs.
- A study by the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, estimated that the mission could create millions of person-years of direct and indirect employment, although gender-disaggregated data are lacking.
Way forward
- Addressing Skill Gaps and Capacity Building:
- Water management jobs require specific skills and training, yet there is often a gap between the skills needed and the expertise available.
- While some training programs exist for wastewater treatment and watershed management, they do not cover emerging employment opportunities in the water sector.
- Promoting Sustainable Employment:
- Despite robust policies for community participation, sustainable employment creation has been lacking.
- Investing in training women, providing access to finance, and leveraging self-help groups can foster women’s self-employment in water management, strengthening water security in both rural and urban areas.
Conclusion
- Government initiatives such as the Jal Jeevan Mission are poised to unlock this potential. By addressing skill gaps and promoting women’s participation, India can not only create green jobs but also empower women in the vital task of water management, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
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