Bharatmala Pariyojana is a comprehensive road development project initiated by the Government of India to improve connectivity and reduce logistics costs across the country.
The total length covered under the scheme is 34,800 km, with an estimated cost of Rs. 5.35 lakh crore.
About Bharatmala Pariyojana
Details
Launched to improve road connectivity, enhance freight/passenger movement, and reduce logistics costs.
First-phase launched in 2017, covering 34,800 km of roads, with an estimated cost of Rs. 5.35 lakh crore.
Long-term goals to be completed in phases over several years.
Key Components:
Economic Corridors & Efficiency: Focus on developing 26,000 km of roads and improving the Golden Quadrilateral and North-South/East-West Corridors.
Inter-State & Feeder Routes: 8,000 km of interstate corridors and 7,500 km feeder routes.
Border & International Roads: 2,000 km of roads for trade and security.
Coastal & Port Connectivity: 2,000 km of roads for better port connectivity.
Green-Field Expressways: New expressways to reduce congestion.
Aims and Objectives
50 national corridors to be constructed, reducing freight traffic congestion and facilitating movement on national highways.
550 districts to be connected nationwide, up from the current 300 districts linked with national highways.
Logistic Performance Index (LPI) to be introduced, helping identify trade and logistics challenges and opportunities.
Expected to increase employment opportunities for people.
Funding and Implementation
Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRF): Created under the Central Road Fund Act, 2000, this non-lapsable fund is used for building and upgrading national highways and other infrastructure, funded through cess on petrol and diesel.
Monetization of National Highways: The monetization of existing infrastructure assets is used as a source of funding.
Private Sector Investment: Bharatmala invites participation from the private sector for funding and execution of certain projects.
Additional Budgetary Support: Funds from additional budgetary allocations by the central government also support the project.
Do you know?
Sagarmala Programmeapproved in 2015, focuses on port infrastructure development along the 7,516-km coastline through modernisation, mechanisation, and computerisation.
Parvatmala (National Ropeways Development Programme)announced in Union Budget 2022-23 to improve connectivity in hilly areas, under MORTH.
Implemented in PPP mode as an ecologically sustainable alternative to conventional roads in challenging terrains.
Initial regions: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Jammu & Kashmir, and North Eastern states.
PYQ:
[2017] With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
It has a corpus of Rs 4,00,000 crore at present.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
A recent study suggests that the Arctic Ocean may experience its firstice-free day—where sea ice falls below one million square kilometres—by 2030, or even sooner.
Key Highlights of the Study
First Ice-Free Day Prediction: The study predicts that the Arctic Ocean could experience its first ice-free day (less than one million square kilometres of sea ice) by 2030, or even sooner, depending on climatic conditions.
Simulations and Models:
11 different climate models were used to run 366 simulations from 2023 to 2100 to assess the future of Arctic sea ice.
Most simulations predict the ice-free day within 7 to 20 years, with some models suggesting it could happen as early as September 2027.
Conditions for Ice-Free Day: The occurrence of an ice-free day will depend on a combination of unusually warm seasons and stormy weather, which accelerates the melting of the sea ice.
Impact on Sea Ice: Once the first ice-free day occurs, it could be followed by an ice-free period lasting between 11 to 53 days, potentially leading to the first ice-free month.
How does the Arctic Tundra store Carbon?
The Arctic tundra stores carbon primarily through a process where plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere via photosynthesis.
This carbon gets trapped in the soil and organic matter (plants and animals) that accumulate over time.
The cold Arctic climate slows the decomposition of plant and animal remains, meaning that organic materials, including carbon, remain locked in the permafrost.
This permafrost acts as a natural storage system, preventing CO2 from being released back into the atmosphere.
Scientists estimate that the Arctic tundra holds about 1.6 trillion metric tonnes of carbon, which is roughly double the amount of carbon in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Why is the Arctic Tundra emitting more carbon than absorbing it?
Rising temperatures in the Arctic are causing the permafrost to thaw at an accelerated rate.
When permafrost thaws, microbes in the soil become active, breaking down the organic material trapped in the frozen ground, which results in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), two potent greenhouse gases.
The Arctic has been warming at a rate four times faster than the global average.
2024 was the second-warmest year on record for the region, contributing significantly to the thawing of the permafrost.
Wildfires in the Arctic have become more frequent and intense, further accelerating the thawing of permafrost. Wildfire smoke also contributes to the release of greenhouse gases.
Between 2001 and 2020, the combination of rising temperatures and increased wildfires led to the Arctic tundra releasing more carbon than it absorbed, marking a significant shift in its role from a carbon sink to a carbon emitter.
Why does it matter?
Climate Change Acceleration: The loss of sea ice will amplify the Albedo effect, causing the Arctic region to absorb more sunlight and heat, which will accelerate global warming and trigger extreme weather events in mid-latitudes.
Rising Sea Levels: The loss of Arctic ice contributes to sea level rise, with potential long-term impacts on coastal populations and ecosystems, particularly if the Greenland ice sheet melts completely, which could raise sea levels by 6 meters.
Ecosystem and Species Impact: The melting of sea ice will threaten species that rely on the ice for habitat, such as polar bears, walruses, and reindeer, disrupting the Arctic food chain.
Human and Infrastructure Threats: Arctic communities and their infrastructure are at risk as the region warms at four times the global average, threatening the livelihoods of people living in these areas.
Back2Basics: Albedo Effect
It refers to the measure of how much sunlight is reflected by a surface.
It is expressed as a percentage; a surface with a high albedo reflects more sunlight, while a surface with a low albedo absorbs more.
Light-colored surfaces like ice and snow have high albedo, reflecting most of the sunlight, whereas dark surfaces like oceans and forests have low albedo, absorbing more heat.
PYQ:
[2022] Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.
[2012] The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere because it absorbs:
(a) the water vapour of the air and retains its heat
(b) the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation
(c) all the solar radiations
(d) the infrared part of the solar radiation
PYQ Relevance: Q) Do you think that Constitution of India does not accept principle of strict separation of powers rather it is based on the principle of ‘checks and balance’? Explain. (UPSC CSE 2019)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on major issues like Constitutional Principles (2019) and Basic structure (2014 and 2019) of our Constitution.
The 2024 general elections saw a turnout of approximately 65.79%. While India’s Constitution provides for a strong framework of rights and governance, its effectiveness has been compromised by political interference and corruption. The judiciary’s ability to enforce laws impartially is often challenged by political dynamics, leading to perceptions of selective justice.
Today’s editorial highlights critical concerns regarding recent actions that may undermine the foundational principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution. It talks about the significant in the current political climate, as it addresses issues of governance, civil liberties, and the rule of law. This content can be used to reflect the Constitutional governance issues in India.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
In the light of a controversial ruling by the Allahabad High Court, debates around Nationalism, Secularism, and Civil liberties are increasingly polarized, which has led to a resurgence of interest in how constitutional principles are being interpreted and applied in contemporary governance.
What are the debates and key issues highlighted recently?
• Freedom of Speech vs. Responsibility: The Allahabad High Court recently upheld a charge against an individual, Owais Khan, for mocking a Hindu deity on social media. ○ The court emphasized that while freedom of speech is a fundamental right in India, it is not absolute. ○ This means that individuals must exercise this freedom with a sense of responsibility, particularly when it comes to respecting the beliefs and sentiments of others.
•Judicial Activism and Accountability: Certain judicial decisions as given below may reflect a departure from constitutional values. 1. Zakia Jafri Case (2022): The Supreme Court dismissed a plea for further investigation into the 2002 Gujarat riots, stating there was no evidence of a larger conspiracy. This ruling was controversial as it was perceived to undermine accountability for state actions during communal violence, raising concerns about the rule of law and justice for victims. 2. Umar Khalid’s Bail Denial: The Delhi High Court denied bail to activist Umar Khalid, citing a prima facie case against him. Critics argue that this decision reflects an overreach of judicial authority and raises questions about the treatment of dissenters in politically sensitive cases.
•Supreme Court on Places of Worship: The Supreme Court recently barred new suits against places of worship, which has implications for ongoing disputes over religious sites.This decision has been viewed as an attempt to maintain communal harmony but also raises concerns about the judiciary’s involvement in sensitive religious matters.
•Controversial Remarks by Judges: Instances like Justice Srishananda’s remarks referring to a Muslim-majority area as “Pakistan” highlight how judicial comments can perpetuate biases and affect public perception of the judiciary’s impartiality. Such statements have prompted calls for clearer guidelines on judicial conduct
•Secularism and Pluralism: The court’s stance on respecting religious sentiments is framed within the broader context of India’s secular fabric. ○ True secularism requires not only tolerance but also an active promotion of fraternity among diverse communities, which seems to be at risk amid rising tensions surrounding religious identities.
•Public Perception and Constitutional Compact: These actions are perceived as mockery of constitutional principles and can erode public confidence in democracy. ○ It calls for a reaffirmation of commitment to the values of justice, liberty, and equality as outlined in the Preamble to the Constitution.
What are the other contemporary challenges facing the Indian Constitution?
Rise of Hindu Nationalism: The ascent of Hindu nationalism poses a significant threat to the secular and pluralistic fabric of India. Policies such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), have sparked debates about their alignment with constitutional values of equality and secularism.
Erosion of Civil Liberties: There has been rising communal violence, restrictions on freedom of speech, and attacks on media independence, which deviate from the constitutional promise of a democratic society.
Judicial Independence and Institutional Integrity: The independence of the judiciary is under scrutiny as there are fears that political considerations may influence judicial decisions. The weakening of institutional checks and balances threatens the foundational principle of separation of powers, which is crucial for maintaining democratic governance.
Social and Economic Inequalities: The influence of money and muscle power in politics exacerbates persistent social and economic disparities, undermining democratic processes and leading to questions about fair representation. The non-enforceability of Directive Principles of State Policy further complicates efforts to address these disparities effectively.
Federalism and Centralization: Initiatives like “One Nation, One Election” could undermine the autonomy of state governments, affecting local governance and representation. Critics argue that this centralization could dilute regional identities and issues.
What implications do these challenges have for India’s democratic framework?
Erosion of Democratic Norms: As the judiciary grapples with issues like political interference and judicial overreach, there is a risk of eroding democratic norms.
When judicial decisions appear to align with political interests rather than constitutional principles, it undermines the public’s trust in the judiciary as an impartial arbiter of justice.
Threat to Fundamental Rights: Challenges such as restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly can directly impact citizens’ fundamental rights. If the judiciary fails to protect these rights effectively, it may result in a chilling effect on dissent and activism, weakening the democratic fabric that relies on robust public discourse and participation.
Judicial Independence at Risk: The increasing politicization of the judiciary threatens its independence, which is crucial for maintaining checks and balances in governance.
A compromised judiciary may lead to unchecked executive power, resulting in potential abuses and violations of citizens’ rights.
Increased Polarization: The rise of identity politics and communal tensions can exacerbate societal divisions, making it difficult for the judiciary to operate effectively.
When legal interpretations are influenced by political ideologies or communal sentiments, it can lead to verdicts that favor one group over another, undermining the principle of equality before the law.
Impact on Governance and Accountability: Judicial decisions that favor state actions without adequate scrutiny can diminish accountability in governance. This could enable corruption and misuse of power by public officials, further eroding public confidence in democratic institutions.
How has the judiciary responded to perceived threats against constitutional values?
Judicial Review: The Indian judiciary exercises the power of judicial review, allowing it to examine the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions.
This power is enshrined in Articles 13, 32, and 226 of the Constitution, which enable the Supreme Court and High Courts to strike down laws or actions that violate fundamental rights or exceed the authority granted to the legislature or executive.
Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980): This landmark judgment reaffirmed the supremacy of the Constitution over parliamentary authority, emphasizing that laws infringing on fundamental rights could be invalidated.
Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): The Supreme Court established the “basic structure” doctrine, asserting that certain fundamental features of the Constitution cannot be altered or destroyed by amendments.
Protection of Fundamental Rights: The judiciary has consistently defended individual rights against state encroachments. The courts have expanded the interpretation of fundamental rights, ensuring they encompass a broader range of protections for citizens.
In cases like Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978), the Supreme Court broadened the scope of Article 21 (right to life and personal liberty), ruling that due process must be followed in any deprivation of life or liberty.
The judiciary has also intervened in cases involving social justice, such as ensuring rights for marginalized communities and addressing issues like sexual harassment through interpretations aligned with international human rights standards.
Upholding Judicial Independence: Judicial independence is seen as crucial for maintaining constitutional integrity. The judiciary has asserted its role as a guardian of the Constitution, often resisting pressures from other branches of government.
Justice Kurian Joseph emphasized that as long as an independent judiciary exists, there is no threat to the Constitution, highlighting the judiciary’s role in safeguarding democratic values and individual rights.
Way Forward:
National Judicial Commission (NJC): Forming an NJC to oversee the appointment of judges can ensure transparency and accountability in judicial appointments, reducing political influence.
Expansion of the e-Courts Project: Enhancing digital infrastructure for courts, including online case filing and AI-assisted case management, can significantly reduce delays and improve access to justice.
Implementing systems like FASTER (Fast and Secured Transmission of Electronic Records) for quick communication of court orders will also expedite processes.
Promoting Legal Literacy: Increasing public awareness about legal rights and judicial processes through educational campaigns can empower citizens to engage more effectively with the legal system.
Amid intense debates between the government and the opposition, the Lok Sabha passed the Railways (Amendment) Bill, in 2024.
What were the significant key features of the bill?
Repeal of the Indian Railway Board Act, 1905: The Bill repeals the 1905 Act, which governed the establishment and powers of the Railway Board. Provisions from the 1905 Act are now incorporated into the Railways Act, of 1989, for a unified legal framework.
It combines the provisions of the 1905 Act and the 1989 Act, reducing legislative redundancy and simplifying governance.
Constitution of the Railway Board: It empowers the central government to determine:
The number of Railway Board members.
Qualifications, experience, and terms of service for the Chairman and members.
Method of appointment for these positions.
Streamlining Legal Provisions: It consolidates provisions for easier administration and reduces the need for cross-referencing between multiple laws.
It enables the central government to prescribe updated qualifications and service terms for Railway Board members, potentially improving leadership quality.
Administrative Integration: It maintains the Railway Board’s central authority while aiming for operational efficiency and uniformity in governance.
It aligns with recommendations for a modernized railway structure, paving the way for potential decentralization and private sector participation.
Development Goals: The Bill is in line with India’s broader infrastructure and economic development objectives, which depend heavily on an efficient railway system.
Why did the Government Bring the Bill?
The government aims to repeal the Indian Railway Board Act of 1905 and integrate its provisions into the Railways Act of 1989, simplifying the legal framework governing Indian Railways and reducing reliance on multiple laws.
The government argues that this integration will enhance the efficiency and development of railways, allowing for better governance and decision-making within the Railway Board.
Since its inception, the Railway Board has operated under the 1905 Act. The new Bill seeks to modernize this structure by aligning it with contemporary governance practices.
What did MPs Say About the Bill?
Support from Government MPs: The ruling party MPs praised the Bill as a significant step towards modernizing and strengthening Indian Railways, asserting that it would enhance the functions and independence of the Railway Board.
Concerns from Opposition MPs: Opposition members argued for an independent Railway Board free from government control and highlighted that the Bill does not address critical issues like:
Concerns About Privatization: The Opposition party is worried that the new Bill could lead to the privatization of Indian Railways, making it less accessible to poorer people.
Loss of Independence: Many Members of Parliament (MPs) are concerned that more government control over appointments to the Railway Board could reduce the independence of Indian Railways.
Restoration of Discounts: Several MPs are calling for the return of fare discounts for senior citizens, journalists, and economically weaker groups, which were stopped during the pandemic.
Calls for Inclusivity: Some MPs raised concerns about representation within the Railway Board, questioning whether marginalized groups would be adequately represented in appointments.
Way forward:
Strengthen Railway Board Autonomy: Establish an independent regulatory framework to ensure the Railway Board operates with greater autonomy, focusing on safety, operational efficiency, and decentralization at zonal and divisional levels.
Inclusive Representation and Expertise: Mandate merit-based appointments to the Railway Board, ensuring adequate representation of marginalized groups (SCs, STs, OBCs, and women) while emphasizing domain expertise for effective governance.
Mains PYQ:
Q The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators. (UPSC IAS/2014)
The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria significantly challenges Iran’s regional influence, disrupting Tehran’s efforts to sustain its “Shiite crescent” strategy across the Middle East.
The “Shiite crescent” strategy refers to Iran’s geopolitical ambition to establish a contiguous sphere of influence among Shia-majority regions, extending from Iran through Iraq and Syria to Lebanon, thereby enhancing its regional power.
What are the Bilateral Ties between Iran and Syria?
Strategic Partnership: Since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979, Syria has been Iran’s key ally, facilitating Iranian influence throughout the Levant. This partnership allowed Iran to support Hezbollah in Lebanon and maintain a foothold against Sunni Arab states.
Corridor for Influence: Syria served as a vital corridor for Iranian resources and military support to its proxies, reinforcing Tehran’s “Shiite crescent” strategy aimed at linking Iran with its allies across the region.
Historical Context: The relationship strengthened under Bashar al-Assad, despite being challenged by regional Sunni powers. The Assad regime’s reliance on Iranian support became more pronounced during the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011.
What are the challenges for Tehran?
Loss of Influence: The fall of Assad represents a major setback for Iran, as it loses a critical ally needed to sustain its influence in the region. This diminishes Tehran’s ability to project power through its network of proxies and disrupts its strategic depth in the Levant.
Operational Setbacks: Iran’s military presence in Syria had already been compromised by Israeli operations targeting Hezbollah leaders and other Iranian-affiliated groups. The loss of Assad exacerbates these challenges, leaving Tehran to reassess its military and diplomatic strategies.
Increased Regional Competition: With Assad gone, regional powers like Turkey and Gulf states are likely to vie for influence in Syria, further complicating Iran’s position and diminishing its regional leverage.
What are the Geopolitical implications for the countries in the region?
Power Vacuum: The collapse of Assad creates a power vacuum in which regional players such as Turkey, Iran, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states will compete to fill, recalibrating their strategies to safeguard national interests.
Increased Tensions: Sunni Arab states may heighten efforts to counter Iranian influence, potentially leading to escalated sectarian tensions and a resurgence of militant groups like ISIS seeking to exploit the instability.
Israel’s Strategic Posture: Israel is expected to adopt a more aggressive stance against Iranian-affiliated groups in Syria and Lebanon, aiming to prevent any reconstitution of Iranian influence along its borders.
Western Involvement: The U.S. and European nations may intensify their involvement through diplomatic channels and interventions to curb Iranian expansion while preventing militant organizations from re-emerging in the region.
What are the steps taken by Indian government?
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC): Launched during India’s G20 presidency, this corridor aims to enhance connectivity and trade between India, the Middle East, and Europe. It seeks to integrate various countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and European nations, facilitating faster movement of goods and improving maritime security.
Joint Action Plan with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): India and the GCC have adopted a Joint Action Plan for 2024-2028, which encompasses cooperation in various sectors such as health, trade, energy, agriculture, and transportation.
Way forward:
Strengthen Diplomatic Ties: Engage with key regional actors like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey to promote stability in Syria and counterbalance Iranian influence while safeguarding India’s energy and trade interests in the Middle East.
Counter-Terrorism Collaboration: Enhance intelligence-sharing and counter-terrorism cooperation with allies to mitigate the risks of militant groups like ISIS exploiting the instability in Syria.
Support Reconstruction Efforts: Participate in Syria’s post-conflict reconstruction through investments in infrastructure, showcasing India’s soft power and gaining strategic goodwill in the region.
Mains PYQ:
Q In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to its situation? (UPSC IAS/2018)
The National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at addressing the growing mental health challenges in the country.
About National Mental Health Programme (NMHP):
Details
Initiated in 1982 and restructured in 2003, the NMHP aims to modernize mental health facilities and upgrade psychiatric wings in medical institutions.
Features and Signficance
The program has 3 components:
1. Treatment of mentally ill
2. Rehabilitation
3. Prevention and promotion of positive mental health.
Aims and Objectives
Prevention and treatment of mental and neurological disorders and their associated disabilities.
Use of mental health technology to improve general health services.
Application of mental health principles in total national development to improve quality of life.
Structural Mandate
The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), based on the Bellary Model, focuses on community mental health services at the primary healthcare level, spanning 716 districts.
DMHP provides outpatient services, counselling, psycho-social interventions, and support for severe mental disorders.
Priority given to mental morbidity and treatment.
Primary healthcare services at village and sub-center levels.
Services at the Primary Health Center (PHC) and District Hospital levels.
Facilities at Mental Hospitals and Teaching Psychiatric Units.
Back2Basics: The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017
It replaced the Mental Healthcare Act, 1987, which was criticized for failing to recognize the rights of mentally ill individuals.
It ensures the Right to Access to Healthcare and aims to ensure the rights and dignity of those with mental illness.
It decriminalized suicide, stating that attempts are presumed to be under severe stress and shall not be punished.
Indian and Nicaragua has signed an umbrella agreement on Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).
The agreement aims at socio-economic development by implementing QIPs in Nicaragua, which will directly benefit local communities.
About Nicaragua: Quick Facts
Nicaragua is located in Central America, bordered by Honduras to the north, Costa Rica to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
The capital of Nicaragua is Managua; official language spoken in Nicaragua is Spanish; currency is the Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO).
Nicaragua operates as a unitary presidential republic.
The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, including coffee, bananas, and sugar, along with manufacturing and mining.
Geographical Features:
Nicaragua’s topography is predominantly mountainous in the interior, with lowland plains along its Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
The country is home to over 20 volcanoes, with active ones such as Masaya and San Cristóbal.
The largest lake in Nicaragua is Lake Cocibolca, also known as Lake Nicaragua, which is one of the largest lakes in Latin America.
Nicaragua is also known for its significant rivers, including the San Juan River, which flows into the Caribbean Sea, and the Río Coco, the longest river in Central America.
India- Nicaragua Relations:
Diplomatic relations were established in March 1983, and the Indian Embassy in Panama is concurrently accredited to Nicaragua.
Nicaragua’s embassy in India was closed in 1990, and currently, Nicaragua is represented in India through its Embassy in Tokyo.
What are Quick Impact Projects (QIPs)?
QIPs are initiatives designed to deliver rapid and visible benefits to local communities, especially in areas with critical infrastructure and social development needs.
These projects are often implemented in a short time frame.
They are focused on addressing urgent and immediate issues that can have a significant positive impact on the community.
The term is commonly used by organizations like the UNHCR to describe such initiatives in crisis or displacement situations.
Examples of QIPs may include:
Building roads in remote areas to improve connectivity.
Establishing community centers that serve as hubs for local services.
Improving healthcare facilities with basic medical equipment and services.
Upgrading educational infrastructure by building schools or providing learning materials.
In February 2018, the Centre had launched the initiative to establish 1,50,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), formerly known as Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs), by December 2022.
As of 31st July 2024, 1,73,881 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been set up and are fully operational, exceeding the original target.
About theAyushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs):
Details
Launched to provide comprehensive health services covering preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care for all age groups.
First AAM was launched in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh on April 18th, 2018.
In FY 2018-19, over 17,000 AAMs were operationalized, surpassing the target of 15,000.
Currently, there are 1.6 lakh such centres across India.
National Health Policy of 2017 envisioned AAMs as the cornerstone of India’s health system.
In 2023, the Union Health Ministry renamed AB-HWCs as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs with the tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
Aims and Objectives
To provide universal, free-of-cost, and accessible primary healthcare services to both rural and urban populations.
Features and Significance
Services provided include preventive, promotive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative care.
AAMs offer a comprehensive 12-package set of services.
Sub-Health Centres (SHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) are being transformed to offer broader healthcare services.
Structural Mandate
Implemented via 2 Components:
Comprehensive Primary Health Care: The mission plans to establish 1,50,000 AAMs in rural and urban areas to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): The scheme provides a health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh per year to more than 10 crore vulnerable families for secondary and tertiary care.
PYQ:
[2022] With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:
Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
It has seamless portability across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
The Ministry of Steel unveiled the world’s first Taxonomy of Green Steel, setting a benchmark for decarbonizing the steel industry.
About theGreen Steel Taxonomy:
What is it?
A formal framework introduced by India to define and promote the production of steel with reduced carbon emissions.
It sets clear standards for what constitutes green steel, aiming to help the Indian steel sector transition to low-carbon production methods.
The taxonomy defines greenness percentages based on the steel plant’s carbon emission intensity.
Seeks to ensure that production aligns with India’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2070.
Key Features
Emissions Threshold: Green Steel is defined based on emissions intensity, with steel plants needing to keep emissions below 2.2 tCO2 per tonne of finished steel (tfs) to be classified as green.
Star Rating System:
Five-star: Emission intensity lower than 1.6 t-CO2e/tfs.
Four-star: Emission intensity between 1.6 and 2.0 t-CO2e/tfs.
Three-star: Emission intensity between 2.0 and 2.2 t-CO2e/tfs.
Steel exceeding 2.2 t-CO2e/tfs does not qualify as green steel.
Emissions Scope: Includes Scope 1, Scope 2, and limited Scope 3 emissions, covering production, agglomeration, beneficiation, and emissions from raw materials and intermediates.
Certification: NISST will oversee Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV), issuing greenness certificates and star ratings annually.
Review Period: The thresholds for green ratings will be reviewed every 3 years.
Significance
Environmental Sustainability: Aims to reduce carbon footprint in line with national climate goals.
Market Creation: Promotes innovation in low-carbon steel products.
Global Competitiveness: Ensures Indian steel meets international sustainability standards.
Guidance for Industry: Encourages adoption of greener practices.
Other Key Initiatives
National Mission on Green Steel (NMGS): Policy support, funding, and incentives for low-carbon technologies.
Electrification of Steelmaking: Use of electric arc furnaces (EAF) to reduce reliance on coal.
Hydrogen-based Steelmaking: Exploring hydrogen as a clean fuel.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Technologies to capture CO2 emissions.
Public Procurement Policies: Promotes green steel use in public infrastructure.
Research and Development: Investments in low-carbon technologies and materials.
PYQ:
[2020] Steel slag can be the material for which of the following
1. Construction of base road
2. Improvement of agricultural soil
3. Production of cement
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q) Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in the UNSC. (UPSC CSE 2015)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously ‘India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in the UNSC’ (in 2015).
Pakistan will join the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as a non-permanent member for a two-year term, starting January 1, 2025. This is Pakistan’s eighth term. Half of the 10 elected members for 2025-26 will be from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Pakistan, Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia will replace Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland.
Today’s editorial underscores the implication of Pakistan as a non-permanent member of the UNSC.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
On January 1, 2025, Pakistan will begin its eighth term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for two years.
Significance of Pakistan’s Election as a Non-Permanent Member of the UNSC
Pakistan’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2025-2026 term is significant for several reasons:
Representation of OIC: With Pakistan’s entry, half of the elected UNSC members will be from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), highlighting the bloc’s influence within the Council and potentially shaping discussions on issues pertinent to member states, particularly those related to Islamic nations.
Diplomatic Leverage: Pakistan aims to use its position to strengthen ties with the Taliban in Afghanistan, leveraging support from allies like Russia and China for diplomatic rehabilitation efforts. This could reshape regional dynamics and influence international responses to Afghanistan.
Focus on Key Issues: Pakistan intends to prioritize peacekeeping and humanitarian issues, particularly in conflict zones like Gaza and Kashmir, framing its agenda around combating terrorism while attempting to shift scrutiny away from its own challenges related to terrorism.
Pakistan’s Approach to Its Responsibilities in the UNSC
Pakistan is expected to approach its responsibilities in the UNSC with a clear agenda:
Anti-India Initiatives: Historically, Pakistan has utilized its UNSC membership to advocate against India, particularly regarding Kashmir. It is likely to continue this trend by pushing for discussions on Kashmir and presenting claims against India’s actions in the region.
Islamophobia Narrative: Pakistan has previously attempted to introduce Islamophobia into discussions on terrorism, seeking to frame it as a justification for violence. This narrative may resurface during its term, especially with support from OIC countries.
Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Efforts: As a major contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, Pakistan will likely emphasize its role in peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance, attempting to position itself as a responsible global actor despite its contentious regional relationships.
Expectations for India
India should prepare for several outcomes as Pakistan assumes its role in the UNSC:
Increased Anti-India Rhetoric: India can expect Pakistan to leverage its UNSC platform for anti-India initiatives, including attempts to highlight alleged human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir and presenting dossiers against India concerning terrorism.
Limited Multilateral Cooperation: Despite any bilateral engagements that may occur outside the Council, enhanced multilateral cooperation is unlikely. Historical patterns suggest that countries aligned with Pakistan may support anti-India drafts within the UNSC.
Focus on Counter-Terrorism Issues: India should remain vigilant as Pakistan seeks to frame itself as a victim of terrorism while attempting to label India similarly. This could manifest in proposals aimed at listing Indian nationals or organizations under UN sanctions.
Way forward:
Strengthen Diplomatic Engagements: India should enhance its diplomatic outreach to UNSC members, particularly the P5 countries, to counter any anti-India initiatives by Pakistan. Building stronger alliances with like-minded countries can help mitigate any biased resolutions or discussions on Kashmir and terrorism.
Focus on Counter-Narratives and Humanitarian Diplomacy: India should actively engage in countering Pakistan’s use of Islamophobia and terrorism-related narratives. By promoting peacekeeping contributions, humanitarian assistance, and multilateral cooperation
