Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022
Mains level: Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022, concerns, impact and way forward
What’s the news?
- The recent inclusion of a plethora of species in the new schedules of the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022 has raised numerous questions among ecologists.
Central idea
- The inclusion of a multitude of species in its schedules has raised concerns about the lack of an objective and replicable process. While the intention behind the amendment is to enhance conservation efforts, it is imperative to address the issues it raises in terms of conservation, its impact on people, and its implications for research.
Overview of the New Act
- Schedule 1: Houses around 600 species of vertebrates and numerous invertebrates, with the highest protection.
- Schedule 2: Contains roughly 2,000 species, including 1,134 bird species.
- Alignment with CITES: The act also incorporates the CITES appendices.
Concerns for Conservation
- Ambiguity in Resource Allocation: The act does not provide a clear direction on prioritizing species for resource allocation.
- Uniform Protection Levels: Species ranging from tigers to jackals and from great Indian bustards to common barn owls are accorded the same protection level.
- Unintended Consequences: Acts meant to conserve might sometimes yield counterproductive results. For instance, listing the invasive spotted deer (chital) in Schedule 1 has inadvertently protected it, despite the harm it inflicts on the Andaman Islands’ ecosystem.
Impact on Humans
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: The WLPA underlines the concept of co-existence, often neglecting the harm certain species can cause to humans, both physically and psychologically. By elevating wild pigs and nilgai to Schedule 1, the act potentially limits states’ abilities to cull problematic animals, disregarding farmers’ concerns.
- Traditional Practices Overlooked: Despite hunting and use of certain animals being traditional practices, the WLPA imposes restrictions. There’s a lack of balance between conservation needs and societal traditions.
- Research Constraints: The listing of a vast number of species could inhibit research. Securing permits for research becomes a convoluted process. Furthermore, the act’s implications on citizen science and data sharing remain unclear.
Broader Issues
- Some ecologists have been observed to neglect the broader issues.
- Their operations sometimes resemble ‘parachute science’, taking more than they give back to local communities.
- The implications of this act not only hinder research, but also severely impact these communities.
Way Forward
- Transparent Inclusion Process: Develop a replicable and objective process for the inclusion of species in the schedules. This could be based on ecological significance, population sizes, and expert consultations.
- Reassess and Reclassify Species: A re-evaluation of species, especially those like the spotted deer in the Andaman Islands, is necessary. Reallocating species between schedules can ensure more appropriate protection levels.
- Resource Allocation Blueprint: Given the vast number of species included, a clear guideline for resource allocation is essential. It should be based on urgency, ecological significance, and conservation viability.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation: Design a more nuanced policy for managing conflicts. It should include better conflict response, compensation schemes, and awareness programs, especially in areas where Schedule 1 species are in direct conflict with human populations.
- Reconsideration of Traditional Practices: Address the disconnect between the Act and traditional practices by incorporating provisions for regulated and sustainable use of species, especially where they are abundant and pose no threat to their populations.
Conclusion
- The imperative now is a balanced approach that ensures human safety, bases management actions on research, and permits observation without harming the ecosystem, respecting both human rights and wildlife conservation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Dhanauri Wetland
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The National Green Tribunal has given the UP government four weeks to inform it about the status of the Ramsar tag for Dhanauri wetlands.
Dhanauri Wetland
- The Dhanauri Wetlands is a bird-watching area located in Dhanauri village near Dankaur in Uttar Pradesh.
- It is home to over 120 Sarus cranes (Sarus Cranes is the state bird of Uttar Pradesh).
- It is a sanctuary for 23 species of endangered, critically endangered, and threatened birds, with special significance as a habitat for the majestic Sarus crane.
Ecological Significance
- Dhanauri is a natural wetland that hosts more than 217 bird species, including over 150 Sarus cranes, and serves as a vital birding and nesting site.
- It has received recognition as an Important Bird Area by Bird Life International and has been documented by the BNHS (Bombay Natural History Society).
- During peak migratory seasons (November to March), the wetland hosts over 50,000 waterfowls.
Why in news?
- Dhanauri plays a crucial role in supporting the vulnerable Sarus crane population.
- The wetland fulfills two key Ramsar site criteria out of nine:
-
- It hosts over 1% of the biogeographic Sarus crane population.
- The area serves as a congregation site for 20,000+ waterfowls and various other species.
Ramsar Wetlands
- The Ramsar Convention, also known as the ‘Convention on Wetlands,’ is an intergovernmental environmental treaty founded by UNESCO in 1971.
- It derives its name from the city of Ramsar in Iran, where it was initially signed.
- Ramsar sites are wetlands of global significance recognized under this treaty.
- The Montreux Record is a register of wetland sites on the brink of ecological changes and in need of close monitoring under the Ramsar Convention.
Ramsar Site Designation Criteria:
Ramsar site designation hinges on several factors:
- Representing rare or unique natural wetland types.
- Supporting endangered species or threatened ecological communities.
- Maintaining biodiversity in specific biogeographic regions.
- Offering refuge during adverse conditions.
- Regularly accommodating 20,000 or more waterbirds.
- Sustaining 1% of a population of a single water-bird species.
- Serving as a critical source of food, spawning grounds, nurseries, and migration paths for fish.
- Regularly supporting 1% of a population of non-avian wetland-dependent animal species.
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lamin B Receptor (LBR), Chemotherapy
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Researchers at the Netherlands Cancer Institute have conducted a recent study to investigate drug resistance in cancer cells, focusing on resistance to a drug known as Taxol.
- It studied Chemotherapy and cancer relapse, particularly when a small number of cancer cells resist treatment and remain dormant, potentially leading to a resurgence of the disease.
Chemotherapy and its limitations
- Cancer cells are characterized by uncontrolled and rapid division.
- Chemotherapeutic drugs aim to halt this proliferation, often triggering programmed cell death, known as apoptosis, in response to halted cell division.
- However, this approach also damages healthy dividing cells, leading to adverse side effects.
Fine-Tuning Cancer Treatment
- Oncologists face the challenge of finding an effective drug dose that eliminates cancer cells while minimizing unbearable side effects for patients.
- One approach has been the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that target specific proteins found mainly on cancer cells, sparing non-cancerous cells.
Unraveling Drug Resistance
- P-gp Protein: Some cancer cells escape drug treatments by overexpressing a protein called P-gp (permeability glycoprotein), which acts as a pump, expelling toxic compounds, including chemotherapeutic agents.
- ABCB1 Gene: The production of P-gp is controlled by the ABCB1 gene, and cells that produce excessive P-gp can flush out chemotherapy drugs, preventing them from accumulating at levels needed to trigger apoptosis.
Role of Cellular Location
- Recent Findings: The study examined the sensitivity of cells to Taxol and identified that the location of the ABCB1 gene within the cell’s nucleus plays a crucial role.
- Nuclear Envelope: In sensitive cells, the ABCB1 gene is located close to the nuclear envelope. In resistant cells, the gene has detached from the envelope and moved further inside the nucleus, resulting in a 100-fold increase in ABCB1 gene-related RNA.
Key Protein: Lamin B Receptor (LBR)
- LBR’s Influence: Researchers discovered that the presence or absence of a protein called Lamin B Receptor (LBR) affects the location of the ABCB1 gene.
- Depletion of LBR: When LBR is depleted, cells can activate the ABCB1 gene when exposed to Taxol. However, the absence of the LBR gene itself does not immediately increase ABCB1 expression, indicating the involvement of additional factors.
- Diverse Responses: Different cancer types exhibit varying responses to LBR depletion, highlighting the complex mechanisms governing gene expression and silencing.
- Analogy: A simple analogy illustrates the diversity: Different bathrooms offer various options for drying clothes, and cancer cell types rely on different mechanisms to tether genes to the nuclear envelope.
Significance
- These findings emphasize the need for further research into the diverse ways cancer cells express or suppress genes.
- Understanding drug resistance mechanisms opens avenues for developing strategies to maintain the potency of anti-cancer drugs while minimizing side effects, ultimately benefiting patients on their path to recovery.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PMLA
Mains level: Money Laundering
Central Idea
- The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is contemplating adding a political party as an accused in a money laundering probe linked to the now-defunct Excise Policy of the Delhi government.
Booking a Political Party for Money Laundering
- Applicable Law: Section 70 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) addresses offences by companies, and it can be invoked in this case.
- Definition of “Company”: While a political party isn’t a ‘company’ under the Companies Act, the PMLA includes an explanation that broadens the scope to include ‘associations of individuals,’ potentially encompassing political parties.
Precedent for such Cases
- If pursued, this action could set a significant precedent in India’s legal landscape.
- Previously, political parties have been investigated under the Income Tax Act.
- Trusts and NGOs are already within the purview of the PMLA, as per a notification by the Finance Ministry.
Connection between Charges and Political Party
- The central allegation by the ED is that the political party received the proceeds of crime in the excise scam.
- An additional explanation in Section 70 of the PMLA specifies that a “company may be prosecuted, notwithstanding whether the prosecution or conviction of any legal juridical person shall be contingent on the prosecution or conviction of any individual.”
- This implies that even if cases involving party members fail, the party can still be prosecuted for money laundering separately.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Special Marriage Act
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Supreme Court of India has declined to approve same-sex marriages in a blow to LGBTQ rights.
- CJI said that it was outside the court’s remit to decide the issue and that parliament should write the laws governing marriage.
Same-Sex Marriage Demand
- Petitioners are urging for the reinterpretation of the Special Marriage Act (SMA), 1954, by replacing “man and woman” with “spouses” to accommodate LGBTQIA+ couples.
- Such right to marry not only symbolizes equality but also grants access to numerous legal benefits, including insurance, adoption, and inheritance.
Petitioners’ Demands
| Arguments |
Summary |
| Constitutional Basis |
Asserted that the right to marry for non-heterosexual couples is implicit in various constitutional articles, including Articles 14, 15, 16, 19, and 21. |
| Previous Landmark Judgments |
Referenced key Supreme Court judgments such as ‘Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union of India’ (2018) and ‘KS Puttaswamy vs. Union of India’ (2017) to support their case. |
| Benefits and Rights |
Emphasized the importance of equal access to marriage-related benefits and rights, such as pensions and provident funds. |
| Minimum Marriageable Age |
Suggested different minimum marriageable ages for lesbian, gay, and transgender couples based on gender identity. |
| Recognition of Fundamental Rights |
Cited the Transgender Persons Protection Act, 2019, as a precedent recognizing the right to marry for all queer identities. |
Respondent’s Arguments
| Arguments |
Summary |
| Maintainability and Jurisdiction |
Questioned the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case and raised concerns about the maintainability of the petitions. |
| Impact on Existing Laws |
Argued that introducing marriage equality would impact 160 existing laws, making it the prerogative of Parliament to enact such changes. |
| SMA Character and Intent |
Emphasized that the Special Marriage Act (SMA) was intentionally designed for heterosexual marriages, and changing its character and intent would require legislative action. |
| Legitimate State Interest |
Contended that the State has a legitimate interest in regulating marriages, addressing aspects such as age of consent, bigamy, and prohibited degrees of marriage. |
| Welfare of Children |
Advocated for prioritizing the welfare of children born to heterosexual parents, leading to differential treatment of heterosexual and homosexual couples. |
| Public Perception |
Expressed concerns about societal acceptance and potential collateral damage to various legal provisions if same-sex marriage were declared a fundamental right. |
States Responses
- Rajasthan, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh opposed the plea for legal recognition of same-sex marriages.
- Sikkim, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Manipur sought more time to respond.
- Also, many fundamentalist religious organizations are opposed to such marriages.
Conclusion
- It must be noted that only Taiwan and Nepal allow same-sex unions in Asia, where largely conservative values still dominate politics and society.
- The Supreme Court’s verdict on marriage equality in India is poised to shape the country’s LGBTQIA+ rights landscape profoundly.
Also read:
[Sansad TV] Perspective: Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Modern Indian, Personalities, contributions and related facts
Mains level: Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and his contributions
What’s the news?
- Commemorating the 125th birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, a prominent figure in India’s history
Central idea
- Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, a name synonymous with educational reforms among Muslims, stands out for his groundbreaking efforts. Yet, his views on women’s education remain controversial and the topic demands a revisit, especially in the context of the recent passing of the Women’s Reservation Bill.
The Complex Legacy of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
- Sir Syed’s Contradictory Views:
- While Sir Syed displayed a clear inclination towards liberal values and rationality, exemplified by his establishment of the Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh in 1875, his views on women’s education were more conservative.
- He advocated for a form of education that revolved around home tutoring for women, emphasizing their role in family life. He believed that formal education could hinder their primary purpose – marriage.
- Support for Gender Segregation:
- It’s noteworthy that Sir Syed supported gender segregation in education, opposing the British government’s initiatives to open co-educational schools and girls’ exclusive institutions.
- He even considered coeducation a major cause of public unrest during colonial rule, reflecting the prevalent societal disapproval of women’s education.
Sir Syed’s Advocacy for Women’s Empowerment
- Campaigning Against Regressive Practices:
- Sir Syed actively campaigned against various regressive practices that affected women’s lives in India.
- He used platforms like the Aligarh Institute Gazette to address issues such as female infanticide, polygamy, child marriage, sati (the practice of widow self-immolation), the segregation of widows, and poverty-induced marriages of young girls to older men.
- Support for Mary Carpenter’s Initiatives:
- Sir Syed welcomed and appreciated the efforts of Mary Carpenter, a British philanthropist dedicated to female education.
- Carpenter’s commitment to providing modern education to Indian women impressed him.
- This support showcased Sir Syed’s recognition of the importance of education in empowering women and allowing them to participate more fully in public life.
Reevaluation Through European Lens
- Sir Syed’s visit to England in 1869-70 had a transformative effect on his views about women’s education.
- His interactions with European women and observations about their roles in society led him to partially revise his stance.
- He began to appreciate gender equality and the essential role of women in human progress.
- He admired the freedom enjoyed by women in Europe and believed that the rejection of women’s education by Muslims played a part in the community’s decline
Conclusion
- While Sir Syed Ahmed Khan never fully relinquished his initial preference for home-based education for women, his exposure to Western ideals brought about a marked shift in his perspective. As we reflect on his contributions, it’s essential to view him in the nuanced light of a reformer caught between tradition and modernity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Short term and Long-term risks associated with AI need for global governance
What’s the news?
- The film ‘Ex Machina’ highlights the unpredictability of AI risks as technology evolves.
Central idea
- In the digital age, sharing personal information has become riskier due to cyberattacks and data breaches. Once fictional, AI now impacts various sectors, bringing evolving risks that require global governance.
Short-term risks associated with AI
- Malfunction of AI Systems: Ensuring that AI systems do not malfunction in their day-to-day tasks, especially in critical infrastructure like water and electricity supply, to prevent disruptions and harm to society
- Immediate Dangers of Runaway AI: Although improbable, the potential for AI systems to go rogue and manipulate crucial systems, leading to catastrophic consequences even in the near future,
Long-term risks associated with AI
- AI and Biotechnology: The combination of AI and biotechnology could alter human emotions, thoughts, and desires, posing profound ethical and societal challenges.
- Human-Level AI: Advanced AI systems capable of human-level or superhuman performance may emerge, potentially acting on misaligned or malicious goals.
- Dire Consequences: Superintelligent AI with harmful intentions could have catastrophic consequences for society and human well-being.
- Ethical and Safety Concerns: Developing AI with such capabilities raises significant ethical and safety concerns.
Challenges in Aligning AI with Human Values
- Transparency and Explainability: Many AI systems, particularly deep learning models, are often seen as black boxes where it’s challenging to understand how they make decisions.
- Human Control: Ensuring that humans maintain control over AI systems and that AI does not act autonomously in ways that could harm individuals or society is a key challenge.
- Ethical Decision-Making: Developing AI that can make ethical decisions in complex situations, such as autonomous vehicles deciding how to respond to potential accidents, is an ongoing challenge.
- Cultural and Societal Values: Different cultures and societies have varying values and norms. Aligning AI with human values involves navigating these differences and ensuring that AI systems respect cultural diversity.
- Long-Term Considerations: As AI evolves and becomes more powerful, addressing long-term ethical considerations, such as the potential for superintelligent AI, is a critical challenge.
The Threat of Militarized AI
- The merging of AI with warfare intensifies long-term risks.
- Treaties like the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons show global norms can be established.
- Nations need clear rules for AI’s role in warfare.
The Uncharted Territory of AI Governance
- There’s no unified global approach to AI regulation.
- Only 37 laws included the term artificial intelligence among 127 countries, as per Stanford’s AI Index.
- The EU’s AI Act, with its risk-based approach, may be oversimplified.
The importance of global cooperation
- Uniform Regulation: AI risks are not confined by borders, and inconsistent regulations across countries can lead to confusion and inefficiencies. Global cooperation allows for the development of uniform standards and regulations.
- Mitigating Global Risks: Many AI-related risks, especially those with global implications such as AI’s convergence with biotechnology or the potential for superintelligent AI, demand a collaborative approach.
- Ethical Frameworks: Collaborative efforts can lead to the establishment of universally accepted ethical frameworks for AI development and deployment. These frameworks can guide the responsible and ethical use of AI, regardless of where it is developed or employed.
- Preventing a Race to the Bottom: In the absence of global cooperation, countries may prioritize rapid AI development over safety and ethics to gain a competitive edge. This race to the bottom can undermine global AI safety efforts, making coordination crucial.
- Technological Divides: Global cooperation helps prevent technological divides where some nations advance rapidly in AI capabilities while others lag behind. Such divides can exacerbate global inequalities and have far-reaching geopolitical consequences.
Conclusion
- The evolving nature of AI risks necessitates a unified global approach to governance. Immediate action in creating comprehensive regulations and international norms is crucial. The choices we make today will determine the world we inhabit in the future.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RCEP
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are considering joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) after India’s withdrawal from the trade agreement in 2019.
Recent update on RCEP
- Sri Lanka’s Application: Sri Lanka has applied for RCEP membership and seeks support from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, and Thailand.
- Bangladesh’s Decision: Bangladesh is expected to make a final decision on RCEP membership after its elections in January 2024.
What is Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)?
| Scope |
Free trade agreement among 15 Asia-Pacific countries |
| Member Countries |
Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam |
| Negotiations and Signing |
Negotiations started in 2012,
Officially signed on November 15, 2020 |
| Entry into Force |
Effective from January 1, 2022 |
| Objectives |
Reduce trade barriers, promote economic growth, enhance economic cooperation |
| Trade Facilitation |
Includes tariff reductions, trade in services, rules of origin, customs procedures, and trade remedies |
| Market Access |
Improves market access for goods and services among member countries |
| Accession Rules |
Expected to be finalized by 2024 |
| Global Significance |
Significant due to large economies like China, Japan, and South Korea |
| India’s Withdrawal |
India initially participated but withdrew in 2019 citing concerns about trade deficits and domestic industries |
India’s Stance on RCEP
- Past Withdrawal: India withdrew from RCEP talks in 2019 due to concerns over services mobility, potential flood of Chinese goods, and objections from domestic agriculture and small businesses.
- No Indication of Return: India has not indicated any reconsideration of its decision to withdraw from RCEP.
Reasons for Sri Lanka and Bangladesh’s Interest
- Learning from Crisis: Sri Lanka realizes the importance of regional markets during crises and hopes to spread its market and enhance competitiveness.
- Bangladesh’s Graduation: As Bangladesh approaches graduation from the list of Least Developed Countries in 2026, joining RCEP could offset potential export losses and simplify FTA negotiations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hepatitis
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Egypt has become the first country to achieve the World Health Organization’s “gold tier” status on the path to elimination of Hepatitis C.
About Hepatitis
|
Hepatitis A |
Hepatitis B |
Hepatitis C |
| Causative Virus |
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) |
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) |
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) |
| Transmission |
Fecal-oral route (contaminated food/water) |
Blood and body fluids (unsafe sex, sharing needles) |
Blood-to-blood contact (sharing needles, transfusions) |
| Vaccine Available |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Chronic Infection |
No (usually acute) |
Yes (can become chronic) |
Yes (often becomes chronic) |
| Symptoms |
Mild flu-like symptoms, jaundice |
Variable, from none to severe symptoms |
Often asymptomatic, but can lead to liver damage |
| Chronic Complications |
None |
Cirrhosis, liver cancer |
Cirrhosis, liver cancer |
| Preventable by Vaccine |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
| Treatment |
Supportive care |
Antiviral medications |
Antiviral medications |
Egypt’s “Gold Tier” Status
- Stringent Criteria: To reach the “gold tier,” Egypt fulfilled specific criteria, including ensuring 100% blood and injection safety, providing a minimum of 150 needles/syringes annually for people who inject drugs, diagnosing over 80% of individuals with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV), treating over 70% of diagnosed HCV patients, and establishing a surveillance program for hepatitis sequelae, including liver cancer.
- Exemplary Results: Egypt has diagnosed 87% of its hepatitis C patients and provided curative treatment to 93% of those diagnosed, surpassing the WHO’s gold tier targets.
How did Egypt achieve this?
- “100 Million Healthy Lives” Initiative: Egypt’s ambitious initiative led to a substantial reduction in hepatitis C prevalence, from 10% in 2016 to 5% in 2018 and an estimated less than 1% in 2019, as reported by the Africa CDC.
- Leadership Role: Egypt extends support to other African countries, aiming to replicate its success in hepatitis C elimination, including enhancing access to affordable treatment.
Try this PYQ:
Which one of the following statements is not correct?
(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
(b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
(c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.
(d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India-Sri Lanka Ferry
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- PM Modi inaugurated an international, high-speed passenger ferry service in Palk Strait between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, India, and Kankesanthurai, near Jaffna in Sri Lanka.
India-Sri Lanka Ferry
- The service is operated by the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board and Shipping Corporation of India.
- It will operate daily, covering the 60-nautical mile (110-km) journey in approximately 3.5 hours.
- Passengers are entitled to a 50kg free baggage allowance.
- The Indo-Ceylon Express or Board Mail used to operate between Chennai and Colombo via Thoothukudi port.
- However, this was stopped in 1982 due to the civil war in the island country.
About Palk Strait
| Location |
Narrow water body separating Tamil Nadu, India, and Sri Lanka. |
| Name Origin |
Named after Robert Palk, a British Raj-era governor of Madras Presidency (1755-1763). |
| Geographic Boundaries |
Southern boundaries include Pamban Island (India), Adam’s Bridge (shoals), Gulf of Mannar, and Mannar Island (Sri Lanka). |
| Connection |
Connects the Bay of Bengal in the northeast with the Gulf of Mannar in the southwest. |
| Alternate Name |
Southwestern part of the strait is known as Palk Bay. |
| Dimensions |
Width varies from 40 to 85 miles (64 to 137 km), length is approximately 85 miles, and depth is less than 330 feet (100 meters). |
| River Inflows |
Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu flow into the Palk Strait. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Evapotranspiration, Water Cycle
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) issued a report highlighting the significant impact of climate change and human activities on Earth’s water circulation systems.
- This has direct consequences leading to droughts, extreme rainfall events, and disruptions in water cycles.
What is the Water Cycle?
- The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth’s surface.
- It involves various processes that allow water to circulate between the atmosphere, land, oceans, and other bodies of water:
| Evaporation |
Sun’s heat turns surface water into vapor. |
| Condensation |
Vapor forms clouds as it cools in the atmosphere. |
| Precipitation |
Clouds release moisture as rain, snow, or hail. |
| Runoff & Infiltration |
Water flows over land or seeps into the ground. |
| Transpiration |
Plants absorb and release water vapor. |
| Sublimation |
Ice transforms directly into vapor in specific conditions. |
| Transport |
Winds move moisture globally. |
| Collection |
Water gathers in oceans, lakes, and underground sources. |
Why is it under stress?
- Diverse Impact: Climate change and human activities have led to an erratic hydrological cycle, resulting in both droughts and extreme rainfall events, causing widespread disruptions affecting livelihoods and economies.
- Melting Snow and Glaciers: Ongoing melting of snow, ice, and glaciers further exacerbates the risk of extreme weather events, such as floods, posing long-term threats to water security, particularly for millions already facing severe water scarcity.
Global Impact
- Global Deviations: Over 50% of global catchment areas experienced deviations from normal river discharge conditions in 2022, primarily due to climate anomalies, such as heatwaves, droughts, La Nina, and El Nino events.
- Horn of Africa Drought: Severe drought in the Horn of Africa led to reduced river discharge, affecting food security for 21 million people, while other regions, like the Niger Basin, saw above-average discharge and major floods.
- Water Reservoirs Affected: More than 60% of major water reservoirs experienced below-normal inflow, posing challenges to water availability in a changing climate.
Impact on Asian Water Tower
- The term “Asian Water Tower (AWT)” typically refers to the vast network of high mountain regions across Asia, particularly in countries like India, China, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Central Asia.
- These high mountain regions are the source of many major rivers in Asia, such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yangtze, Mekong, Indus, and Amu Darya.
- The melting snow and glaciers in these mountains provide a continuous supply of freshwater to downstream areas.
- This AWT witnessed substantial glacial melting in 2022.
- Rising temperatures accelerate water cycle disruptions, leading to heavier precipitation, flooding, and intensified droughts, significantly impacting the water balance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Classification of Diseases (ICD)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Centre seeks to include traditional Indian medicines in the 11th revision of the World Health Organisation’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD).
- The traditional Indian medicine system is categorized into Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Yoga, Naturopathy, and Homoeopathy
About International Classification of Diseases (ICD)
| Purpose |
Standardized system for classifying and coding diseases, health conditions, and related information. |
| Established |
1893, by International Statistical Institute (WHO’s predecessor) |
| Authority |
Developed and maintained by the World Health Organization (WHO). |
| Scope |
Covers a wide range of diseases, health conditions, injuries, and health-related factors. |
| Coding System |
Assigns unique alphanumeric codes to each health condition for consistent recording and reporting. |
| Global Applicability |
Internationally recognized and used for health data collection, analysis, and reporting. |
| Updates |
Periodically updated to reflect advances in medical knowledge and changing health trends. |
| Latest Version |
ICD-11 became effective in January 2022. |
| Uses |
Clinical diagnosis, health record documentation, research, health policy, and resource allocation. |
India’s quest to update ICD-11
- Universal Language: The ICD provides a universal language that enables healthcare professionals worldwide to share standardized information.
- Traditional Medicine Module: The 11th revision includes a module dedicated to traditional medicine conditions, offering a standardized way to collect and report data on these conditions internationally.
- Formal Recognition: Ayurveda and related Indian traditional healthcare systems are formally recognized and widely practised in India, making a strong case for their inclusion.
- Chinese Medicine Inclusion: After a decade of consultations, ICD-11 included Module-1, covering traditional medicine conditions originating in ancient China.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Green Credit Program
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Centre has introduced a Green Credit Program (GCP) that allows individuals and entities to earn Green Credits, which can be traded on a dedicated exchange.
What is the Green Credit Program (GCP)?
- Objective: Aims to establish a competitive, market-based approach encouraging diverse stakeholders to undertake environmental actions.
- Nodal Agency: Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
Mechanics of Green Credit
- Voluntary Participation: Reflects inclusivity, as engagement in the program is entirely voluntary.
- Entities: The program extends to a diverse range of entities, encompassing individuals, industries, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), urban local bodies (ULBs), gram panchayats, and private sectors.
- Tradability: Tradable, fostering participation in a proposed domestic market platform.
- Certificates: Upon approval, applicants receive Green Credit certificates.
Covered Activities
- Qualifying Activities: The program includes various activities such as tree plantation, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove conservation, eco-mark initiatives, sustainable building, and infrastructure development.
- Registration and Verification: Participants must register their activities on the program’s website, which will undergo verification by a designated agency.
How are Green Credits computed?
- Equitable Calculation: Green Credits are determined based on resource equivalence, scalability, scope, size, and other relevant parameters, aiming to achieve desired environmental outcomes.
- Credit Registry: A dedicated Green Credit Registry will oversee the tracking and management of these credits.
- Trading Platform: An administrator will establish and maintain a trading platform for the exchange of Green Credits within the domestic market.
Alignment with Legal Obligations
- Non-Tradable for Legal Compliance: Green Credits obtained for legal compliance purposes will not be tradable, ensuring adherence to existing laws.
- Independent from Carbon Credit Scheme: The GCP operates separately from the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023, established under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
- Additional Climate Benefits: Activities generating Green Credits may also yield climate-related advantages, such as carbon emissions reduction, potentially resulting in the acquisition of carbon credits.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 2023 Nobel Prize
Mains level: Women low labour force participation, Claudia Goldin's theory and solutions
What’s the news?
- 2023 Nobel Prize winner in Economics, Goldin’s groundbreaking work highlights that the key to addressing the underrepresentation and underpayment of women lies not in their homes but in the labor market.
Central idea
- In the realm of economic orthodoxy, long-held beliefs attributed women’s absence from the labor force to childcare responsibilities and lower education levels, perpetuating a gender pay gap. However, Claudia Goldin, the esteemed 2023 Nobel Prize winner in Economics, challenged these notions and offered a fresh perspective.
Goldin’ theory
- Claudia Goldin’s lifetime of research has bestowed a name and a voice upon these women’s challenges.
- She meticulously traces the evolution of the American economy from agriculture to manufacturing to services, revealing that women were historically excluded from market activities.
- Only when jobs expanded beyond factories into offices, schools, and hospitals did women gain access to the workforce.
- Despite their increasing educational achievements, women continued to earn less than their male counterparts.
- Goldin’s theory attributes this persistent wage gap to the difficulty women face in pursuing jobs with demanding responsibilities.
A Solution for Gender Equity
- Reduce Reliance on Heroic Efforts: Goldin suggests moving away from a culture of greedy work that rewards extreme efforts. Instead, organizations should create roles that don’t require superhuman commitments, promoting work-life balance.
- Promote Moderate Work Hours: Goldin’s solution includes advocating for reasonable work hours, benefiting both genders and avoiding productivity issues associated with excessively long hours.
- Provide Predictable Schedules: Emphasizing stable work hours helps employees better plan family responsibilities and reduces stress, contributing to gender equity.
- Institutional Support: Supporting institutions should include educational reforms to ease parental homework burdens and urban planning that reduces commuting, making it easier for both men and women to balance work and personal life.
The Road Ahead in India
- Service Sector Opportunities: India’s growing service sector offers the prospect of increased employment opportunities for women. This aligns with Goldin’s observation that women found jobs when economic production shifted from factories to offices, schools, and hospitals.
- Rising Education Levels: With a continuous increase in women’s educational achievements, there is a growing potential to enhance their participation in the workforce. This trend mirrors Goldin’s emphasis on education as a factor that can boost employability.
- Declining Fertility Rates: The decreasing fertility rates in India can contribute to freeing up more of women’s time, potentially facilitating higher workforce participation, as Goldin also noted the impact of declining fertility on women’s ability to engage in the labor market.
Reshaping the environment, as proposed by Claudia Goldin
- Workplace Restructuring: Reducing the reliance on extreme efforts and creating roles that allow for a better work-life balance, particularly for women.
- Moderating Work Hours: Promoting reasonable work hours to improve work-life equilibrium, avoiding productivity issues associated with excessively long hours.
- Ensuring Predictable Schedules: Establishing stable work schedules to facilitate family planning and reduce stress, thus promoting gender equity.
- Supportive Institutions: Reforms in education and urban planning to ease parental responsibilities and reduce commuting times, enabling both men and women to better balance their professional and personal lives.
Conclusion
- To ensure the continued progress of gender convergence in labor market outcomes, we must heed her call for workplace reform and the development of supportive institutions. By doing so, we can pave the way for a more equitable and balanced future for both men and women in the workforce.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Medical Education initiatives and latest updates
Mains level: Medical Education reforms, challenges and solutions
What’s the news?
- The demand for doctors exceeds the supply in large parts of India.
Central idea
- The demand for doctors in India consistently surpasses the available supply, while the pursuit of medical education often outstrips the number of seats available. Reducing this demand-supply gap in medical education has proven to be a challenging endeavor, with potential implications for the availability of healthcare professionals.
Expanding Medical Education
- Over the last decade, India has made significant strides in expanding medical colleges and seats at both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) levels.
- UG seats have nearly tripled, PG seats have almost quadrupled, and the number of medical colleges has doubled since 2010-11.
- Despite this expansion, in 2021, India had only 4.1 medical graduates per lakh population, falling behind countries like China, Israel, the US, and the UK.
Challenges in scaling
- Regulatory and Financial Constraints: On average, Indian medical colleges offer 153 UG seats per college, significantly fewer than Eastern Europe (220) and China (930). This discrepancy is a result of regulatory and financial constraints.
- Infrastructure Limitations: Expanding UG seats in a public medical college from 150 to 200 required additional resources, such as a larger library, increased daily outpatient department (OPD) footfalls, and more nursing staff, as per the draft guidelines for establishing new medical colleges in 2015.
- Quality Maintenance: Concerns that disproportionate scaling can impact the quality of pedagogy and, subsequently, the quality of doctors produced
- Faculty Shortages: Both public and private colleges face teaching faculty shortages, despite better remuneration structures in public colleges. Scaling up can further strain the already limited pool of qualified teaching staff.
- Economic Viability for Private Colleges: Investing in scaling can be risky for private colleges if seats remain vacant and costs aren’t recovered. This can lead to high capitation fees and price distortions.
- Curriculum Limitations: The nature of the competency-based curriculum dictates constraints on scalability. For example, there can’t be more than 15 students surrounding a bed or in any other practical class.
- Equity Concerns: The goal of producing doctors evenly across regions might not result in efficient production. Migration of doctors from states with higher production can be an issue.
Value addition box
Innovations from the US
- India’s competency-based curriculum is akin to that of the US, which has successfully scaled up the production of doctors by optimizing resource utilization.
- Innovations, such as involving practicing MD doctors as mentors for medical students and integrating interprofessional education (IPE) into the curriculum, have enhanced the quality of education and reduced the faculty requirements.
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Quality vs. Scale vs. Equity: A triad of challenges
- Quality:
- Ensuring the highest standards of medical education, which translates into competent, skilled, and ethical practitioners.
- The competency-based curriculum in India requires small-group teaching to ensure a thorough understanding and hands-on experience for students.
- There’s a concern that rapid scaling could lead to a decline in the quality of education and subsequently the quality of doctors produced.
- Quality assurance becomes even more critical given the life-and-death implications of medical practice.
- Increasing the number of medical graduates to meet the country’s healthcare needs.
- Despite the expansion of UG and PG seats in medical colleges, the demand-supply gap persists.
- Regulatory, infrastructural, and financial constraints pose significant challenges in scaling up.
- The National Medical Commission prioritizes an even distribution of medical colleges and seats. They aim for localized doctor production to ensure different regions have adequate healthcare.
- Policies such as the cap on UG seats and the location restrictions of new colleges highlight this focus.
- However, this might not lead to efficient doctor production due to phenomena like interstate migration of doctors.
Way forward
- Regulatory Reforms: Streamline regulations to facilitate the establishment and expansion of medical colleges while ensuring quality standards.
- Faculty Development: Prioritize investment in faculty development programs to address shortages and retain experienced educators.
- Technology Integration: Embrace technology to enhance scalability and access to medical education, including e-learning and telemedicine tools.
- Competency-Based Curriculum: Continue to implement competency-based curricula to produce doctors with practical skills and real-world readiness.
- Incentives for Rural Service: Develop and implement policies that incentivize medical graduates to serve in underserved rural areas, addressing healthcare disparities.
- Public-Private Collaboration: Foster collaboration between public and private sectors to expand the availability of medical education seats and improve educational infrastructure.
Conclusion
- Bridging the gap between the demand for doctors and the supply of medical education is a multifaceted challenge in India. To meet the growing healthcare needs of the population, policymakers must carefully consider the trade-offs between quality, scale, and equity in medical education.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key facts and initiatives
Mains level: Climate change, water stress and its impact on food security
What’s the news?
- The theme for World Food Day (October 16) this year—’Water is Life, Water is Food’ —calls for urgent action in managing water wisely.
Central idea
- Water is the essence of life, a resource that nourishes not just humanity but every ecosystem on this planet. However, as this year’s World Food Day theme rightly points out, water is also food. In the light of increasing climate extremes, managing this precious resource wisely has never been more urgent.
Impact of Climate Change on Crop Yields
- Rainfed rice yields in India are projected to decrease by 20% in 2050 and 47% in 2080 if no adaptation measures are taken.
- Irrigated rice yields are also expected to decline, with a projected decrease of 3.5% in 2050 and 5% in 2080 scenarios.
- Wheat yields could face substantial reductions, with a projected decrease of 19.3% in 2050 and 40% in 2080.
- Kharif maize yields are also at risk, with projected declines of 18% in 2050 and 23% in 2080.
- Climate change, without adequate adaptation measures, not only reduces crop yields but also lowers the nutritional quality of the produce.
Challenges associated with poor water management
- Degraded Freshwater Supplies and Ecosystems: Decades of mismanagement, misuse, and pollution have resulted in the degradation of freshwater supplies and ecosystems. This has had a detrimental impact on the availability of clean water for agriculture and other essential needs.
- Vulnerability of Small-Scale Producers: Small-scale farmers, who represent over 80% of farmers globally, are especially vulnerable to the effects of climate shocks, land degradation, and water scarcity.
- Land Degradation: Approximately 40% of the world’s land area is degraded, which means that it is less productive for agriculture. This further reduces the available land for farming, exacerbating the challenges faced by small-scale producers.
- Climate Impacts: Extreme weather events and variability in water availability are disrupting agricultural production. These changes are altering agro-ecological conditions and shifting growing seasons, making it challenging for farmers to predict and adapt to changing conditions.
- Effects on Crop Productivity: Changes in rainfall patterns and rising temperatures have adverse effects on crop productivity. Reduced yields and food availability can result from these climate-related factors, which can contribute to food insecurity and hunger.
Do not scroll past this
FAO Crop Forecasting Framework:
- The FAO is working on a pilot project in several Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
- The project aims to develop a crop forecasting framework and model that incorporates climate data, soil characteristics, and market information.
- This information can help rainfed farmers make informed decisions about their crops, potentially contributing to food security by improving agricultural planning and management.
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Climate change adaptation
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- Supports sustainable agrifood systems and climate-smart agriculture.
- Initiated the farmer water school programme in Uttar Pradesh.
- Supported the Andhra Pradesh Farmer Managed Groundwater Systems project which benefits 638 habitations with hydrological monitoring.
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- Prioritizes climate change adaptation in its core strategies.
- Invests in preserving soil health, water resources, and integrating modern technologies with indigenous systems.
- Implements projects in Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Nagaland, and Mizoram emphasizing climate-resilient practices.
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- Partners with the Government of Odisha focusing on women farmers.
- Employs solar technologies and promotes millet-value chains for climate resilience.
Steps needed
- Overall Strategy: Prioritize political commitment and concrete investment for global food and nutrition security. Promote innovative technologies to enhance farmer productivity.
- Climate Change Adaptation: Formulate strategies to adapt to climate change. Foster resilience against environmental and economic shocks.
- Agricultural Practices: Implement sustainable and economically feasible irrigation and water management techniques. Minimize the climate footprint in agricultural production. Address bio-hazards and environmental pollution.
- Infrastructure and Supply Chain: Prioritize sanitation and potable water supply for rural areas. Advocate for efficient food and water recycling methods.
- Regulation and Management: Strengthen sustainable and fair water regulations. Improve management, access, and ownership systems for resources.
- UN’s Collaborative Projects: Collaborate with the Indian Government on projects such as Solar 4 Resilience, Secure Fishing, and the revival of millets for renewable energy and food security.
Conclusion
- Climate change is making water more scarce and unpredictable. Droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events are becoming more common. World Food Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in achieving food and nutrition security for all. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has enough to eat and drink.
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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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