Why in the News?
Recently, there are some findings from a nationwide private haemodialysis network’, the Lancet Regional Health-Southeast Asia, on the survival of patients receiving haemodialysis in India
Context:
- India has amongst the highest number of patients receiving chronic dialysis, globally estimated at around 1,75,000 people in 2018. Daily, the number of patients on dialysis has been increasing.
- The launch of the National Dialysis Service in 2016 to improve access, and ongoing efforts to develop affordable dialysis systems, are all underlined by the rising incidence of end-stage renal disease in the country.
What is Hemodialysis?
A machine filters wastes, salts and fluid from your blood when your kidneys are no longer healthy enough to do this work adequately. |
Key Highlights as per study:
- Survival with Centre- and Patient-Level: The study found that both centre- and patient-level characteristics are associated with survival rates among patients undergoing haemodialysis.
- Unexplained Variation Between Centres: Despite considering various centre-based characteristics, there remained unexplained variations in survival rates between dialysis centres across India. This suggests that factors beyond those accounted for in the study may influence patient outcomes.
- Large Sample Size: The study included a substantial sample size of over 23,600 patients undergoing haemodialysis at any centre in the NephroPlus network between April 2014 and June 2019. This large sample size enhances the robustness of the study’s findings.
- Primary Outcome: The primary outcome of the study was all-cause mortality, measured from 90 days after patients joined a center. This outcome measure provides valuable insights into patient survival rates over time following the initiation of haemodialysis treatment.
- Consideration of Individual-Level Variables: The study accounted for various individual-level variables such as sex, smoking status, medical history (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, hepatitis B, hepatitis C), education level, monthly household income, dialysis frequency, and vascular access. These variables offer comprehensive insights into patient characteristics and their impact on survival rates.
- Evaluation of Centre-Level Variables: Centre-level variables, including the frequency of nephrologist visits, number of beds, number of staff, and number of patients, were also considered. These variables help assess the influence of center resources and practices on patient outcomes.
What were the measuring differences?
- Limited Data: The only significant study conducted previously in Andhra Pradesh used claims data from a publicly-funded insurance scheme between 2008 and 2012. It included 13,118 beneficiaries and reported a 10.2% mortality rate within six months of starting hemodialysis.
- Absence of Centre-Level Effects: The previous study did not consider center-level effects on survival, limiting the understanding of differences in survival rates between dialysis centers, as observed in other countries.
- Gaps in Understanding: Major gaps existed in understanding dialysis outcome patterns in India due to the absence of comprehensive studies, hindering efforts to improve patient care.
- Lack of National Benchmark: There was no established national benchmark for survival rates among patients undergoing dialysis in India at the time of the study.
- Need for Further Research: The study highlighted the importance of conducting more extensive research to fill the gaps in knowledge and establish benchmarks for dialysis outcomes in India.
What is the recent issue related to the Mortality rate?
-
- Administrative challenges associated with Mortality:
- Impact of Centre-Level Factors: Including center-level factors such as staffing, care processes, and patient volume in the analysis reduced the variability in survival rates across dialysis centers by 31%. This suggests that center-level characteristics play a significant role in influencing patient outcomes and survival rates.
- Survival Range: After adjusting for multi-level factors, the estimated 180-day survival among patients undergoing hemodialysis ranged between 83% and 97%. This variability indicates differences in survival outcomes across dialysis centers in India.
- Urban-Rural Divide: Patients attending rural dialysis centers experienced a 32% higher mortality rate compared to those at urban centers. This disparity underscores the unique challenges faced by rural healthcare facilities in providing hemodialysis services.
- Patient Characteristics Associated with Mortality:
-
- Catheter-Based Vascular Access: Patients using catheter-based vascular access had a higher mortality rate compared to those using arteriovenous fistula or graft access.
- Financial Support: Patients receiving financial support for dialysis treatment through government panel schemes or private insurance had a lower mortality rate compared to those paying out-of-pocket.
- Dialysis Vintage: There was an inverse relationship between mortality rate and dialysis vintage, with patients receiving dialysis for at least a year before joining a center experiencing a 17% lower mortality rate than those starting dialysis less than 30 days before joining.
- Presence of Diabetes: The presence of diabetes was associated with a higher mortality rate among hemodialysis patients.
Way Forward:
- Establishment of National Benchmark: The study proposes the first national benchmark for survival among dialysis patients in India. This benchmark will serve as a reference point for evaluating the quality of care and outcomes across dialysis centres in the country.
- Ongoing Quality Improvement Programs: As dialysis access continues to expand in India, ongoing quality improvement programs are crucial for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and experience optimal outcomes at the point of care.
- Collaborative Quality Improvement System: The authors emphasize the need for a collaborative quality improvement system across the country to address the increasing demand for dialysis services. This system should involve stakeholders at various levels of healthcare delivery to enhance standards of care and patient outcomes.
- Understanding Multilevel Effects: It is essential to understand the multilevel effects of both centre- and patient-level characteristics on dialysis outcomes. Establishing national standards for dialysis outcomes in India requires comprehensive insights into these factors to drive improvements in care delivery.
- Comparison and Monitoring: Establishing national benchmarks enables comparison and monitoring of dialysis centres’ performances over time. This approach facilitates the identification of variations in practice patterns and outcomes, paving the way for targeted interventions and improvements in healthcare delivery.
Conclusion: The nationwide study on haemodialysis outcomes in India highlights disparities and the need for standardized care. Establishing national benchmarks, ongoing quality improvement, and collaborative efforts are essential for enhancing dialysis care and patient outcomes.
Mains PYQ-
Q- Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Agni 5, Mission Divyastra
Mains level: Read the attached story
Why in the news?
- The Agni-5 ballistic missile test dubbed the “Divyastra”, that was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is strategically consequential
Context:
- With a range of over 5,000 kilometers, the Agni-5 is the longest-range missile India has tested so far. But it is not simply its range but, equally, its potency that represents a watershed moment for India’s nuclear deterrent.
- The potency of India’s nuclear deterrent is enhanced because this variant is integrated with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs).
What are MIRVs?
MIRVs- A MIRV is a ‘missile bus’ whose passengers are nuclear bombs and which facilitates a single booster to deliver them to different targets. It means MIRV can target multiple targets that can be hundreds of kilometers apart with a single missile.
Background:
- In 1970, the U.S. started to deploy the Minuteman III, the first MIRV-ed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with three warheads on each missile. In 1971, it deployed the Poseidon, the first MIRV-ed submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) which had the capability of carrying up to 10 warheads on each missile
- The Soviet Union followed the U.S. and by the 1970s developed its own MIRV-ed ICBM and SLBM technology.
- China has developed and deployed MIRV technology with multiple warheads placed on its DF-5B ICBMs
- France and the United Kingdom are known to have MIRV-equipped missiles.
Why MIRV technology is so lethal?
Unlike conventional missiles that deploy a single warhead, MIRV-equipped missiles can release multiple warheads from the missile at varying speeds and trajectories.
A comparison with China-
- India’s Late Entry: While MIRV technology is not new globally, India’s development of MIRV-capable ballistic missiles marks its entry into a select group of nations possessing such capabilities, including the established nuclear powers like the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom.
- Potential for Damage Limitation: MIRV-tipped missiles are crucial for striking multiple targets simultaneously and evading ballistic missile defenses. China’s advancements in ballistic missile defenses, such as the HQ-19 interceptors, pose a challenge, although their efficacy against India’s Agni series missiles, especially the Agni-5, still needs to be improved.
- Need for Further Testing: While integrating MIRV technology into the Agni-5 is a significant step, continued testing and refinement will be necessary to enhance the credibility and effectiveness of India’s nuclear ballistic missile arsenal. The Indian armed services are likely to seek multiple tests to ensure reliability and readiness.
The complications against the development of MIRV-capable ballistic missiles include:
- Nuclear Warhead Miniaturization: Achieving miniaturization of nuclear warheads is a demanding technical requirement for MIRV-capable missiles. Inadequate nuclear testing by India has compromised the extent to which warheads could be miniaturized for MIRV applications.
- Receptacle Weight Reduction: The receptacle that carries the warhead or re-entry vehicle must be of low weight or mass before release from the Post Boost Vehicle (PBV). This requirement adds complexity to the design and engineering of the missile system.
- Precision Configuration: Re-entry vehicles must be precisely configured to fit into the missile and separate from the PBV, which needs to be manoeuvrable. This necessitates meticulous design and testing to ensure proper functionality.
- Guidance and Accuracy: Guidance and accuracy are essential for MIRV-capable missiles, as re-entry vehicles must be spin-stabilized during atmospheric re-entry. Achieving the required level of precision adds another layer of complexity to the development process.
- Geographic Limitation: MIRV-based missiles can only strike multiple targets within their geographic footprint. This limitation requires careful consideration in strategic planning and deployment.
- Limited Nuclear Testing: India’s limited nuclear testing history has restricted the extent to which warheads could be miniaturized and MIRV technology could be developed. This lack of testing has posed challenges to Indian missile and nuclear engineers.
- Integration Challenges: Integrating warheads with missiles involves complex processes and requires coordination among various agencies, such as the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) and Advanced Systems Limited (ASL). Overcoming integration challenges adds to the difficulty of MIRV development.
- Decoys and Countermeasures: Uncertainty remains regarding whether the Agni-5 missile can carry decoys and chaff, especially during the boost and intermediate phases of flight. Integrating countermeasures adds additional technical challenges.
- Launch Platform: Agni-5 is expected to be launched from a road-mobile platform, which introduces logistical and operational considerations for deployment.
Future Scope for Indian Projects:
- Submarine Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) Testing: India is set to test a long-range SLBM, which will be launched from its nuclear ballistic missile submarines. This project aims to further enhance India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities by adding a sea-based component to its arsenal.
- Continued Development by DRDO and AEC: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) of India are expected to continue their collaboration in developing advanced missile and nuclear technologies. This collaboration underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities.
- Strategic Focus on China: The development of the Agni-5 with MIRV capability specifically addresses potential threats from China’s missile and missile defense programs. India’s strategic focus remains on maintaining a credible deterrent vis-à-vis China.
- Enhanced Nuclear Capabilities: The successful test of the Agni-5 MIRV missile marks a significant milestone in India’s quest to become a highly credible nuclear and missile power. It signifies India’s determination to bolster its nuclear capabilities to counter emerging threats effectively.
Conclusion:
India’s MIRV advancements, though challenging, augment nuclear deterrence against China. Continued testing and SLBM development signify India’s commitment to bolstering defense capabilities and ensuring regional stability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Threats posed by AI in upcoming general elections
Why in the news?
With a series of elections to be held across the world in 2024, the potential of AI to disrupt democracies cannot be dismissed.
- The rapid development of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) and its potential evolution into Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) could have significant implications for elections.
AI and the Electoral landscape in India (Possible opportunities and Concerns):
Opportunities:
- Campaign Strategy Revolution: AI tools like sentiment analysis and chatbots optimize campaign strategies, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
- Disinformation Campaigns: AI facilitates can also be used against targeted disinformation campaigns, spreading fake news tailored to specific demographics or regions.
- Technological Advancements: Rapid developments in AI technologies simulate real-world interactions and have the potential to influence electoral dynamics significantly.
- Micro-Targeting Voters: AI enables precise targeting based on data like demographics and online behaviour, enhancing campaign effectiveness.
- Influence through Personalization: Tailored messages resonate better with voters, potentially swaying opinions.
Concerns
- Quality and Quantity of Misinformation: In the upcoming 2024 elections, AI-driven disinformation campaigns are expected to overwhelm voters with vast quantities of incorrect information, including hyper-realistic Deep Fakes and micro-targeted content.
- Challenges to Democracy: The disruptive potential of AI in influencing electoral behaviour necessitates the implementation of robust checks and balances to prevent AI-driven manipulation and ensure the integrity of democratic processes.
- Deep Fake Concerns: There are fears of AI-powered “Deep Fake Elections,” where AI-generated content manipulates and confuses voters. This phenomenon may exploit existing societal attitudes, such as the reported support for authoritarianism in India.
- Propaganda Techniques: AI facilitates the development of sophisticated propaganda techniques, aiming to mislead and manipulate voters. As elections progress, newer methods emerge, potentially leading to the proliferation of Deep Fake content.
- Disinformation Amplification: AI technology amplifies the spread of falsehoods and misinformation, posing a significant threat to democracies by confusing and misleading the electorate on an unprecedented scale.
What are ways to tackle AI ‘determinism’? (Way Forward):
- Mitigate voter mistrust: AI-deployed tactics may erode trust in democratic institutions and processes, highlighting the need for measures to counter AI determinism and mitigate voter mistrust.
- Checks and Balances: While acknowledging AI’s considerable potential, it is imperative to implement checks and balances to mitigate its harmful effects and safeguard against AI’s unpredictable behavior.
- Inconsistencies in AI Models: Public scrutiny over inaccuracies associated with AI models, such as those observed with Google, underscores the inherent dangers of relying solely on AI for decision-making without adequate validation and oversight.
- Existential Threats: Beyond biases in design and development, AI systems pose existential threats, including adversarial capabilities like poisoning, backdooring, and evasion, which undermine the reliability and effectiveness of AI solutions.
- Mitigating Adversarial Capabilities: Current concepts and ideas for mitigating adversarial capabilities in AI systems are insufficient, requiring further research and development to address the inherent vulnerabilities and risks associated with AI technology.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CEC and Other ECs Appointment Bill, 2023
Mains level: Read the attached story
Why in the news?
The President has appointed Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, both retired IAS officers, as Election Commissioners (ECs) to fill up two vacancies in the three-member Election Commission of India
Context:
- Article 324 of the Indian Constitution dictates the appointment of Election Commissioners, granting the Election Commission of India (ECI) authority over the supervision, guidance, and management of elections.
- The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs) are nominated by the President of India. While traditionally an executive prerogative, recent efforts aim to enhance inclusivity and transparency in this selection process.
How were the new ECs selected?
- Selection Committee: Comprising Prime Minister, Union Cabinet Minister, and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
- Six names were shortlisted for consideration by the selection committee.
- Headed by the Union Minister for Law and Justice and includes two officials with the rank of Secretary to the government.
- The shortlisting was done by a committee which, according to the Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.
- The final appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs) is made by the President of India based on the recommendations of the Selection Committee.
What was the process before this?
- Historical Background: Initially, the EC consisted only of the CEC for nearly 40 years after the adoption of the Constitution in 1949. It wasn’t until October 1989 that the EC became a multi-member body.
- Appointment Rescission: In January 1990, the appointment of two Election Commissioners was rescinded shortly after their appointment.
- Enactment of Law: In 1991, a law was enacted to determine the conditions of service for the CEC and ECs. This law was amended in 1993. However, it did not specify an appointment process for the CEC and ECs.
- Appointment Process: In the absence of a specified process in parliamentary law, the appointment of the CEC and ECs has been at the discretion of the President. The Law Ministry typically presents a panel of names to the Prime Minister, who then recommends one of them as an EC to the President.
- Appointment Convention: It became customary to appoint officials as ECs initially, and upon the completion of the CEC’s tenure, the senior EC would be elevated to the position of CEC.
What did the SC rule on the process?
- Anoop Baranwal vs Union of India: In the case of Anoop Baranwal versus Union of India, a five-member Constitution Bench ruled that the power to appoint the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners (ECs) was not intended to be exclusively vested in the executive branch. Instead, it was subject to any law made by Parliament.
- Interim Arrangement: Since no such law had been enacted since the inception of the Constitution, the court established an interim arrangement for the appointment of CEC and ECs. This interim arrangement was to remain in place until Parliament formulated its law regarding the appointment process.
- Composition of Appointment Committee: The court specified that appointments should be made by a three-member committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (or the leader of the largest party in the Opposition), and the Chief Justice of India.
- Response: In response to the court’s directive, Parliament enacted the 2023 Act, which received presidential assent and was notified in December 2023
What is the criticism against the Act?
- Executive Majority: Critics argue that the new Act has altered the composition of the selection panel by removing the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and replacing them with a Union Minister. This change results in a two-one majority for the executive within the three-member committee.
- Supreme Court’s Response: Despite challenges and requests for a stay on the implementation of the new Act, the Supreme Court has consistently refused to intervene, allowing the Act to proceed.
- Upholding Constitutional Principle: Critics argue that by shifting the balance of power within the selection panel in favor of the executive, the Act undermines the constitutional principle of maintaining the autonomy and impartiality of constitutional bodies like the Election Commission.
Conclusion:
In moving forward, it’s imperative to restore balance in Election Commissioner appointments, ensuring judicial oversight, transparency, and inclusivity. Legislative reforms should reflect constitutional principles, safeguarding the independence of constitutional bodies and preserving democratic integrity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Colombo Security Conclave (CSC)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Why in the News?
Since October 2023, the Indian government has shifted its focus from the Indo-Pacific to the Indian Ocean, diverting attention from strengthening the Quad alliance.
- Both the Western Indian Ocean and the Northern Indian Ocean have become active geographies again.
What are the reasons behind this Policy Shift?
- Maldives and China- The Maldives, under President Mohamed Muizzu, is strengthening ties with China, potentially straining its relationship with India.
- Sri Lanka and India- Sri Lanka has shown sensitivity to India’s security concerns by imposing a moratorium on foreign research ships, including Chinese ones, to its ports.
- India-Mauritius Cooperation– India’s SAGAR policy resulted in inaugurating infrastructure in the Agaléga Islands, enhancing Mauritius’s capability to manage its Extended Economic Zone.
- Geopolitical Dynamics- The Western Indian Ocean and Northern Indian Ocean regions are witnessing increased activity, including conflicts and disruptions in maritime trade routes.
- Example-In the Western Indian Ocean, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated, leading to attacks by Houthi rebels on international shipping.
- China’s Naval Expansion- China aims to assert dominance in the region by expanding its naval footprint and fostering partnerships with countries under the string of pearls policy like the Maldives.
- India-China Strategic Competition– India and China are engaged in strategic competition, highlighted by China’s efforts to create an adverse environment for India’s security and its quest for naval bases in key locations.
Suggestive measures:
- Shift in Focus to Indian Ocean: India should prioritize the Indian Ocean region over the Indo-Pacific and convey this clearly to its strategic partners.
- Evaluation of Existing Mechanisms: There is a need for a critical audit of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) due to their perceived underperformance and ineffectiveness.
- Proposal for a New Mechanism: India should consider advocating for the creation of a new organization focused on bolstering maritime security and promoting the Blue Economy in the Indian Ocean region.
- This proposed organization could include India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Comoros, and Madagascar.
- The ninth seat may be kept for the Maldives if it adopts a sensible policy. This group can be named the ‘Indian Ocean Cooperation Organisation.
- Enhancement of Indian Navy: India should allocate new budgetary resources to strengthen its Navy further, aiming to make it the third or fourth most powerful navy globally, in line with India’s ambition to become the third-largest economy.
Conclusion
India’s policy shift towards the Indian Ocean region necessitates prioritizing strategic partnerships, auditing existing mechanisms, advocating for new collaborative initiatives, and enhancing naval capabilities to safeguard regional security and promote economic prosperity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Model Code of Conduct (MCC), Enforcements, Obligations.
Mains level: Ensuring Free and Fair Elections
Why in the news-
- As the Election Commission of India (EC) announced the dates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into force immediately and will be in place till election results are announced.
Understanding the Model Code of Conduct (MCC):
- The MCC is a set of guidelines published by the Election Commission of India (ECI) for conduct during the election campaign and polling.
- It is applicable to political parties and candidates.
- It also explains how parties can lodge complaints to the EC observers in case of dispute and instructs how the Ministers of the parties in power must conduct themselves when the MCC is in force.
- In 2019, a *new addition regarding election manifestos was added, instructing parties to not issue promises which were ‘repugnant to the ideals of the Constitution’.
When was it introduced?
- The EC traces its introduction to the 1960 Assembly elections in Kerala.
- During simultaneous polls to the Lok Sabha and Assemblies in several States in 1962, the EC circulated the code to all recognized parties, which followed it “by and large”.
- In October 1979, the EC came up with a comprehensive code that saw further changes after consultations with parties.
Is the MCC a law?
- The MCC is NOT a statutory document – NOT enforceable by any laws passed by the Parliament.
- Violating many of its guidelines may not attract punitive action.
- Exceptions: Several actions such as causing tension between castes, religious or linguistic communities, appealing to caste or communal feeling for securing votes, etc., are listed as ‘electoral offenses’ and ‘corrupt practices’ under the Indian Penal Code and the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Enforcement and Applicability:
- The MCC comes into force immediately when the election schedule is announced by the Election Commission and remains in operation till the election process is complete, i.e. results are announced.
[A] All Elections
- The MCC is applicable to all elections to the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies.
- It is also applicable for State Legislative Council elections from Local Bodies, and Graduates’ and Teachers’ Constituencies.
[B] Obligations put on
- Listed Political Parties and Candidates: While listed political parties and candidates are bound to follow the MCC
- Non-Political Organizations Supporting Political Entities: Non-political organizations which hold campaigns favouring a political party or candidate are bound to follow specific guidelines mentioned by the EC.
- Government-Funded Entities: All organizations, committees, corporations, commissions funded wholly or partially by the Centre or State are bound by the MCC.
How is the MCC enforced?
- All officers including Police: Before holding polls for the General or State Assembly elections, the Election Commission issues guidelines to the government to shift out all officers including police who are posted in their home district, and who have completed/completing three out of four years in that district to ensure no interference.
- Specially appointed EC officers: The MCC is then implemented by the newly appointed officials and nodal EC officers monitor compliance.
Guidelines Issued during MCC
[A] For Parties and Candidates:
- Campaigning Bar: No election campaigning is allowed within the constituency 48 hours before the close of polls.
- Restrictions on Speech: Political parties and candidates are advised to refrain from commenting on all aspects of private life of the leaders, workers of other parties, limiting criticisms to only their policies, programmes, past records and works.
- Maintaining Social Harmony: They must also not indulge in activities aggravating existing differences or create mutual hatred between different castes, religious and linguistic communities. Appeals to caste or communal feelings for securing votes are also prohibited.
- Others: Specific guidelines cover election campaigning, procession, canvassing, use of funds, and behavior during public meetings.
[B] For Governments:
- Prior approval on Policies: The Union Ministries will need prior approval of the Election Commission on any policy announcements, fiscal measures, taxation issues, financial reliefs when the MCC is in force.
- Screening in State: Similar guidelines apply to State governments where proposals must be referred to a screening committee which will then forward it to the Chief Electoral Officers who will not forward it to the EC unless the instructions applicable to the case are not clear.
- Level-playing field: State/ Union governments must keep public places like maidans and helipads available impartially for all parties and candidates to ensure a level-playing field.
Guidelines for Poll Manifestos (wef 2019)
- Manifestos must not contain anything repugnant to the ideals enshrined in the Constitution.
- They must reflect the rationale for welfare scheme promises and indicate ways to meet the financial requirements for it.
- The manifesto documents must not be released during the prohibitory period (when MCC kicks in).
How are violations dealt with?
- Any complaint regarding elections should be brought to EC observers, Returning Officer, local magistrate, Chief Electoral Officer or the Election Commission itself.
- In response, any directions issued by the EC, Returning officer, District Election Officer shall be strictly complied with.
PYQ:
Consider the following statements:
- In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.
- In 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies.
- As per the existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (2021)
- 1 only
- 2 only
- 1 and 3
- 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into effect in India ahead of general elections. In this regard, consider the following statements:
- MCC comes into effect immediately after announcement of election dates and sustains till the last vote is cast.
- Apart from Political Parties and Candidates, it is applicable to non-political organizations supporting political entities.
- No election campaigning is allowed within the constituency 24 hours before the close of polls.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Trademarks, Patents
Mains level: Not Much
Why in the news?
- A lady in New Delhi successfully obtained trademark for her Momos brand from New Delhi High Court, after a similar trademark infringed upon her rights and reputation.
- The lady’s legal action invoked ‘passing off’ provisions, seeking cancellation of the infringers’ trademark under relevant sections of the Trademarks Act.
What are Trademarks?
- A trademark is a symbol, design, word, or phrase that is identified with a business. Registering a trademark allows its owner to claim “exclusive rights” to its usage.
- The Trademarks Act of 1999 governs the regime of trademarks and their registration in India.
- It guarantees protection for trademarks registered with the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks, also known as the trademark registry.
- According to Section 25 of the 1999 Act, once registered, a trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed by the owner periodically.
Concept of ‘Passing Off’
- ‘Passing off’ entails deceptive practices where one brand attempts to profit from the reputation of another through misrepresentation.
- In Cadila Healthcare Limited vs. Cadila Pharmaceuticals Limited (2001), the Supreme Court defined passing-off as a form of unfair trade competition, where one brand seeks to profit from the established reputation of another through deceptive means.
- Infringed parties can seek injunctions, damages, or accounts against the infringing entity to mitigate the damages caused.
Application in the Present Case: Grounds for Trademark Refusal
- Legal Provisions: Sections 11(1), 11(2), 11(3)(a), and 47 of the Trademarks Act outline grounds for refusal to register trademarks and provisions for removal from the register.
- Likelihood of Confusion: Trademarks resembling earlier trademarks, leading to public confusion, are ineligible for registration under Section 11(1).
- Protection of Distinctive Marks: Section 11(2) prohibits registration of marks that take unfair advantage of or harm the reputation of well-known trademarks.
- Non-Compliance and Non-Usage: Section 47 allows removal of trademarks from the register for non-compliance or non-use, subject to aggrieved parties’ applications.
Back2Basics: Trademarks vs. Patents
|
Trademark |
Patent |
| Purpose |
Identify and distinguish goods or services |
Protect new and inventive products or processes |
| Laws and Provisions |
Trademarks Act, 1999 |
Patents Act, 1970 |
| Subject Matter |
Signs like logos, brand names, slogans, packaging |
Inventions including products, processes, methods |
| Duration of Protection |
10 years.
Indefinite with periodic renewal |
Typically 20 years from the filing date |
| Registration Process |
File application with Trademarks Registry (i.e. Controller General of Patents) |
File application with Indian Patent Office |
| Rights Granted |
Exclusive use of the trademark in connection with goods or services |
Exclusive rights to exploit the invention commercially |
PYQ:
Consider the following statements:
- According to the Indian Patents Act, a biological process to create a seed can be patented in India.
- In India, there is no Intellectual Property Appellate Board.
- Plant varieties are not eligible to be patented in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
With reference to Trademarks in India, consider the following statements:
- Trademark can be a symbol, design, word or even a phrase.
- It allows its owner to claim “exclusive rights” to its usage
- It is valid for 5 years.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise Tiger Triumph-24
Mains level: Not Much
Why in the news
- The third edition of the bilateral tri-service ‘Exercise Tiger Triumph– 24’ between India and the US will be held on the Eastern Seaboard in the US from March 18 to 31.
Exercise Tiger Triumph-24
- The primary aim of this exercise is to enhance interoperability between the Indian Navy and the US military for conducting Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
- It is being held since 2019. The second edition was conducted in 2022.
- The exercise focuses on refining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enable rapid and smooth coordination between the forces of both countries during HADR operations.
- Participants include:
- Indian Navy: Ships with integral helicopters and landing crafts, navy aircraft, Indian Army personnel and vehicles, Indian Air Force aircraft and helicopters, and the Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT).
- US Military: US Navy ships with embarked troops from the US Marine Corps and US Army.
- Indian and US naval assets, along with troops and equipment, are deployed for the Sea Phase after the harbor phase.
All Major Defence Exercises between India and the US
- Yudh Abhyas: Yudh Abhyas is an annual bilateral exercise between the Indian Army and the US Army. It focuses on enhancing interoperability and cooperation in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations.
- Malabar Exercise: Malabar is a trilateral naval exercise involving the United States, India, and Japan. It aims to improve interoperability in maritime security, anti-submarine warfare, and disaster response.
- Cope India: Cope India is an air force exercise between the Indian Air Force and the United States Air Force. It focuses on enhancing interoperability and cooperation in aerial combat tactics, techniques, and procedures.
- Vajra Prahar: Vajra Prahar is a bilateral Special Forces exercise between the Indian Army and the US Army. It focuses on counterterrorism operations, hostage rescue, and other special operations.
- Red Flag Exercise: While not exclusively a bilateral exercise between India and the US, the Red Flag Exercise hosted by the United States Air Force at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada often includes participation from the Indian Air Force. This exercise focuses on advanced aerial combat training and tactics.
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Significance of the Exercise
- Strengthening Bilateral Ties: The exercise serves to strengthen the strategic partnership and cooperation between India and the United States.
- Preparedness: Both countries aim to enhance their readiness and capabilities to respond to humanitarian crises and natural disasters effectively.
- Cooperation: The exercise underscores the commitment of India and the US to international peace and security by collaborating on humanitarian missions.
Practice MCQ:
How many of the given are joint defence exercises between India and the US?
- Yudh Abhyas
- Malabar
- Cope India
- Vajra Prahar
- Mitra Shakti
- Garuda Shakti
Select the correct option:
- Two
- Three
- Four
- Five
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)
Mains level: NA
Why in the news
- The foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has affected around many milch cattle in Uttar Pradesh.
What is Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)?
- FMD is a highly contagious viral disease of livestock that has a significant economic impact.
- The disease affects all cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and other cloven-hoofed ruminants.
- Intensively reared animals are more susceptible to the disease than traditional breeds.
- It does not affect horses, dogs, or cats.
How does it spread?
- It is a Transboundary Animal Disease (TAD) that deeply affects the production of livestock and disrupts regional and international trade in animals and animal products.
- It is caused by is an ‘aphthovirus’ of the family Picornaviridae.
- There are 7 strains (A, O, C, SAT1, SAT2, SAT3, and Asia1) which are endemic in different countries worldwide.
- Immunity to one type does not protect an animal against other types or subtypes.
Implications of FMD
- FMD is characterized by fever and blister-like sores on the tongue and lips, in the mouth, on the teats, and between the hooves.
- The disease is rarely fatal in adult animals, but there is often high mortality in young animals.
- The disease causes severe production losses, and while the majority of affected animals recover, the disease often leaves them weakened and debilitated.
Policy moves to prevent FMD
- FMD Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (2016-17): Launched under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) during, it is a program to cover all the states which were not covered under the six-monthly vaccination scheme.
- National Animal Disease Control Programme (2019): It aims to control of Foot & Mouth Disease and Brucellosis by vaccinating 100% cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig population for FMD and 100% bovine female calves of 4-8 months of age for brucellosis.
PYQ:
Q. Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non- farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India. (2015)
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the National Animal Disease Control Programme, consider the following statements:
- It aims to control of Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis by vaccinating 100% cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig population.
- For brucellosis it would vaccinate 100% bovine calves of all age.
Which of the given statements is/are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SAKHI App, Progress tracking of Gaganyaan Mission.
Mains level: Not Much
What is the news-
- The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), an ISRO facility located at Thumba in Thiruvananthapuram, has developed a multi-purpose app ‘SAKHI’ to assist Gaganyaan Crew.
About SAKHI
- The Space-borne Assistant and Knowledge Hub for Crew Interaction (SAKHI) is equipped to monitor astronauts’ health, maintain communication with Earth, and manage dietary schedules.
- It serves as an essential tool for the crew, offering real-time assistance and access to necessary data.
- It would assist astronauts during the Gaganyaan space flight mission, facilitating tasks such as accessing vital technical information and communication.
- Strapped to astronauts’ space suits, it allows for easy access and facilitates the maintenance of mission logs in various formats.
Utility offered by SAKHI
- Health Monitoring: SAKHI provides comprehensive health monitoring, including parameters like blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. It also reminds astronauts about hydration, dietary schedules, and sleep patterns, enhancing their mission efficiency.
- Communication: SAKHI maintains communication between the crew, onboard computers, and ground-based stations, ensuring seamless connectivity.
Gaganyaan Mission Timeline:
- ISRO aims to launch the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission in 2025.
- The identities of the four astronaut-designates, all IAF test pilots, were revealed at a high-profile event attended by PM at the VSSC on February 27.
- The final crew for the mission will be selected from among the four astronaut-designates.
Also read:
4 IAF Gaganyaan Astronaut-designates named
PYQ:
Which of the following is/are cited by the scientists as evidence/evidences for the continued expansion of the universe? (2012)
- Detection of microwaves in space
- Observation of redshift phenomenon in space
- Movement of asteroids in space
- Occurrence of supernova explosions in space
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1 and 2
- 2 only
- 1, 3 and 4
- None of the above can be cited as evidence
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mission LiFE
Mains level: Not Much
Why in the news-
- Recently an EIACP Event (Environment Information, awareness, capacity building and livelihood Programme) was held on the ‘Mission Life’.
About Mission LiFE
- Mission LiFE, or Lifestyle for Environment, is a global mass movement initiated by India to encourage individual and community action towards environmental protection and preservation.
- It was inaugurated by the PM Modi at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow in November 2021.
- The program aims to mobilize one billion Indians and individuals worldwide to adopt sustainable lifestyles.
Salient Features of Mission LiFE
- It serves as a platform to showcase sustainable goals and climate actions implemented by countries and individuals globally.
- It aligns with the P3 model, promoting Pro Planet People and fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
- It operates based on the principles of ‘Lifestyle of the planet, for the planet, and by the planet’.
Strategy of Mission LiFE
- Mission LiFE adopts a three-pronged strategy to shift people’s collective approach towards sustainability:
-
- Nudging individuals to practice simple yet effective environment-friendly actions in their daily lives (demand).
- Enabling industries and markets to respond swiftly to the changing demand (supply).
- Influencing government and industrial policy to support both sustainable consumption and production (policy).
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the Mission LiFE, consider the following statements:
- It is a mass movement initiated by India to encourage individual and community action towards environmental protection and preservation.
- It was inaugurated at the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow in November 2021.
Which of the given statements is/are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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