Jul 13 2024

Squalus hima (Dogfish Shark)

Squalus hima

  • Recently, scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) uncovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, near a fishing harbour in Kerala along the Arabian Sea.

Squalus hima:

  • About: Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks belonging to the family Squalidae. Commonly known as spurdogs, they are distinguished by their smooth dorsal fin spines.
  • Features: They are recognized by their angular, short snout, small mouth nearly as wide as the snout, the origin of the first dorsal fin situated behind the pectoral fins, and body devoid of spots.
    • They are exploited for their liver oil, which is known for its high squalene content (or squalane after processing for products).
  • Usage: It is highly desired in the pharmaceutical industry, especially for making top-quality cosmetics and anti-cancer treatments.
  • Discovery: Two species of Squalus are found along the southwest coast of India, including the newly identified species Squalus hima n.sp., which shares similarities with Squalus lalannei but has notable differences.
  • Differentiation: Squalus hima, recently identified, distinguishes itself from other species through differences in the number of precaudal vertebrae, total vertebrae, teeth count, trunk and head heights, fin structure, and fin colouration.

AgriSure

AgriSure

  • The Government of India plans to introduce the ‘Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises’ (AgriSURE).

Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises’ (AgriSURE)

  • Fund: The fund will be established with an initial corpus of less than 750 crores, including 250 crores each from NABARD and the Ministry of Agriculture and another 250 crores from other institutions.
  • Objectives of the Fund: 
    • Promotion of Agricultural Innovation, 
    • Improving the value chain of farm produce, 
    • Rural Agri-infrastructure development
    • Employment Generation
    • Provide aid to Farmer’s Producer Organizations (FPOs). 
    • It will also promote IT-based solutions and machinery rental services for farmers.
  • Fund management: NAB VENTURES, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NABARD, will manage the AgriSURE Fund. The fund is structured to operate initially for 10 years, with the possibility of extension by two or more years.

AgriSURE Greenathon 2024:

  • Aim: Affordable Smart Agriculture”: Tackling cost challenges for small farmers in adopting advanced technologies.
    • Turning Agri-Waste into Profit”: Converting agricultural waste into profitable ventures.
    • Tech Solutions for Regenerative Agriculture”: Enhancing economic feasibility of regenerative practices through technology.

Exercise Pitch Black 2024

Exercise Pitch Black 2024

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  • An Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent is participating in Exercise Pitch Black 2024, scheduled from July 12 to August 2, 2024, in Australia.

Exercise Pitch Black 2024:

  • About: Pitch Black is a biennial multinational exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). 
    • The name ‘Pitch Black’ originates from its focus on nighttime flying operations over expansive, uninhabited regions.
  • Focus of the Exercise: The exercise will emphasize Large Force Employment warfare to enhance international cooperation and provide experience for IAF Su-30 MKI pilots alongside F-35, F-22, F-18, F-15, Gripen, and Typhoon fighter aircraft pilots.
  • Contingent: The IAF contingent comprises more than 150 skilled Air Warriors, including pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers, and other experts. They will operate the versatile Su-30 MKI multirole fighters, supported by the C-17 Globemaster and IL-78 Air-to-Air Refueling aircraft in combat support roles.
  • Significance: The exercise offers a valuable opportunity to enhance the participating nations’ capabilities in long-distance deployments, support integrated operations in the Indo-Pacific region, and foster robust aviation partnerships in demanding scenarios.
  • India’s previous involvement: The IAF took part in this exercise’s 2018 and 2022 editions.

NASA’s CHAPEA project

NASA’s CHAPEA project

  • Four volunteer crew members of NASA’s Mars simulation mission recently emerged after a year of living in a habitat replicating the Red Planet.

CHAPEA project:

  • About: A part of NASA’s Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog (CHAPEA) project, it was the first of three planned simulations to understand Mars’s challenges for space explorers. 
  • Aim of the Mission: NASA aimed to collect data for insight into “the potential impacts of long-duration missions to Mars on crew health and performance” and “understand and counter the physical and mental challenges astronauts will face

Habitat of Mars

  • Temperature and Surface: The temperature on Mars ranges between 20 degrees Celsius and -153 degrees Celsius. The planet has a rocky surface with canyons, volcanoes, dry lake beds, and craters, all covered in red dust.
  • Atmosphere: Winds can create dust storms, with tiny ones resembling tornadoes and large ones occasionally enveloping the entire planet. They are visible from Earth using telescopes.
    • It has about one-third the gravity of Earth and the atmosphere is much thinner than Earth’s, containing more than 95% carbon dioxide and less than 1% oxygen.
  • Time measurement: The planet turns on its axis more slowly than Earth, and being farther from the Sun, it takes longer to revolve around the Sun. A day on Mars is 24.6 hours, and a year is 687 Earth days long.

Spacesuit that can turn Urine into Drinking Water

Spacesuit that can turn Urine into Drinking Water

  • Scientists have designed a spacesuit to recycle urine into drinking water to help astronauts execute lengthy spacewalks. 

Spacesuits:

  • Current Spacesuits: The current spacesuits comprise bags that can handle only up to one litre of water. This limits astronauts from going on longer-lasting lunar spacewalks, which can last 10 hours and even up to 24 hours in an emergency.
  • Working: To prevent leaks, the prototype features gender-specific silicone collection cups within a multi-layered fabric undergarment. A vacuum pump activates automatically during urination. Collected urine is then recycled into water with 87% efficiency through a filtration system.
    • Urine filtration involves a two-step process: reverse osmosis separates water from urine using a semi-permeable membrane, and then a pump removes salt from the purified water. 
    • Electrolytes are added to enrich the water before it is pumped into the in-suit drink bag for consumption.

 

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Researchers have found an eco-friendly approach that can eliminate the use of toxic chemicals in silk processing. 

About New Research: This new research, published in Chemistry Select by Wiley Publishers, has the potential to be used in sericin extraction from both mulberry (Bombyx mori) and non-mulberry silks, such as Muga (Antheraea assamensis) and Eri (Philosamia ricini), indigenous to Northeast India.

  • Traditional Silk Protein Extraction: Traditionally, toxic chemicals like sodium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, and lithium bromide have been used to extract silk proteins, fibroin and sericin from various types of raw silk fibres, an important step in the process of making silk from cocoons. 
  • Sericin Removal from Silk: Researchers studied six different ILs and found that 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (BMIM.Cl), 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIM.BF4), and Tetraethylammonium bromide (TEAB) were particularly effective in removing sericin from silk fibres, with TEAB showing exceptional ability to destabilise sericin proteins.
  • Significance: The research holds great significance for the silk industry. 
    • It offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical methods. It paves the way for efficient sericin extraction from non-mulberry silks, potentially leading to new applications for these unique fibres.

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Silk Processing

Silk Production in India

  • India is the second-largest producer of silk in the world. Its total silk production during 2021-2022 was 34,903 MT. 
  • Karnataka contributed around 32% of the total silk production in the country during 2021-22. This was followed by Andhra Pradesh which had a share of 25% in the overall silk production during 2021-22.

The country produces four types of natural silks

  1. Mulberry: The purest form of silk extracted from Silkworms, usually produced in yellow, white, or greenish-yellow colour.
  2. Tasar: It is a type of wild silk made from silkworms that feed on plants like Asan and Arjun. People from different parts of India call it tusaar, tusser, tushar, tusa, tassore, and tasar etc.
  3. Eri: Also known as Errandi and Endi in most parts of India, Eri Silk is one of the purest forms of silk from the East, with a dull yellow, gold-like sheen.
  4. Muga: Produced only in Assam, Muga silk yarns are totally yellow in colour. They are considered India’s strongest natural fibre and prerogative.

Government  Initiatives for the Promotion of Sericulture

For the development and growth of the silk industry in India, the government has implemented several research & development, training, transfer of technology and IT initiatives:

a) Silk Samagra:

  • Silk Samagra is an Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry (ISDSI) which the Government of India introduced through Central Silk Board (CSB).
Central Silk Board (CSB):

  • It is a Statutory body established in 1948 by an Act of Parliament.
  • It is working under the administrative control of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
  • It aimed at the complete development of the silk industry in India. 
  • This scheme will improve the quality and productivity of silk production and aid in scaling up production.

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b) Sericulture Development in the North-Eastern States (NERTPS)

  • The Government of India has launched the sericulture development scheme within an umbrella scheme, namely the “North-East Region Textile Promotion Scheme”. 
  • This scheme’s objective is to revive, expand, and diversify sericulture in the state, with a special focus on Eri and Muga silks.
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Recently, the Supreme Court granted interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal in the case brought by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the alleged Delhi excise policy scam.

What is Section 19 of the PMLA?

  • Section 19 of the PMLA deals with the power to arrest
  • Section 19(1): It states that if the ED Director “has on the basis of material in his possession, reason to believe (that reason for such belief to be recorded in writing) that any person has been guilty of an offence punishable under this Act, he may arrest such person and shall, as soon as may be, inform him of the grounds for such arrest.”

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Concern with Section 19 (1) of Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002

  • In the above case, the ED has buttressed the words “reason to believe” in Section 19, arguing that the Director may not go into the materials but has reason to believe, which is subjective and varies during the investigation.
  • PMLA vs. Ordinary Law: PMLA departs from ordinary criminal law. The threshold is lower in ordinary law, and obtaining bail is easier.
    • Under Section 41 of the CrPC, police can arrest without a warrant based on “reasonable suspicion” of committing a cognizable offence.
  • Condition for Bail Under PMLA: The bar for bail under PMLA, which imposes a reverse burden of proof — which means that instead of the prosecution having to prove their accusation, it is the accused who must prove their innocence — too, is different from ordinary criminal law
  • Supreme Court’s Stand: Section 19(1) of the PML Act requires the designated officer to form an opinion of guilt based on admissible evidence, not merely possessing evidence. This opinion must be supported by material that would stand in court, emphasising the need for admissible evidence to establish guilt.

Legal Position on Bail Provision of the PMLA

  • Constitutional Challenge: In Nikesh Tarachand Shah vs. Union of India (2018), the bail provision of the PMLA Act was deemed unconstitutional because it violated Articles 14 and 21.
  • Parliamentary Restoration: Subsequently, Parliament restored the bail provision through amendments.
  • Judicial Upholding: The SC, in the landmark Vijay Madanlal Chaudhary ruling in 2022, upheld the constitutional validity of the Section 19  ruling, which was reasonable and aligned with the objectives of the PMLA Act.
    • Although it did not specifically address the necessity of arrest and the standard of evidence (proportionality aspects) required to arrest, the SC ruled that the vast power to arrest itself is not unconstitutional.
    • One of the grounds on which the SC upheld the stringent bail provisions was that the power to arrest is also narrow compared to ordinary law.
  • Legislative Discretion: The Court affirmed that including specific offences in the schedule falls within the purview of legislative policy.

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Provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002

  • Section 3: It defines the offence of money laundering, contingent upon the existence of a predicate offence.
  • Investigation Authority: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or State Police investigates and prosecutes the predicate offence.
  • Section 4 specifies the penalties for offences under the PMLA.
  • Section 50: It Provides ED authorities with civil court powers to summon suspects for money laundering and record their statements.
  • Prescribed Obligations: The PMLA mandates banking companies, financial institutions, and intermediaries to verify and maintain records of client identities and transactions. 
    • They must also report such transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) in a prescribed format.
  • Section 45: Section 45 of the PMLA deals with bail. It first states that no court can grant bail for offences under this law and then mentions a few exceptions. 
  • Twin Conditions of Bail: The provision requires the public prosecutor to be heard in all bail applications, and when the prosecutor opposes bail, the court must apply a twin test.
    • These two conditions are:  That there are “reasonable grounds for believing that [the accused] is not guilty of such offence”; and that “he is not likely to commit any offence while on bail”.
  • Similar Provisions in Other Laws: There are similar provisions in several other laws that deal with serious offences, for example, Section 36AC of The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, Section 37 of The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, and Section 43D(5) of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, 1967.
  • Adjudicating Authority:  The PMLA establishes an adjudicating authority with jurisdiction, power, and authority conferred by the Act.
  • Appellate Tribunal: Additionally, an Appellate Tribunal is envisaged to hear appeals against orders of the Adjudicating Authority and authorities such as the Director of FIU-IND.
  • Special Courts: Special Courts are designated under the PMLA to try offences punishable under the Act and offences that can be charged under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, in the same trial.
  • International Agreements: The PMLA empowers the central government to enter into agreements with foreign governments to enforce the provisions of the Act, exchange information, or investigate cases related to offences under the PMLA.

 

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A group of scientists has released a white paper on glacial geoengineering to assess possible technological interventions that could help address catastrophic sea-level rise scenarios.

  • The white paper results from two recent geoengineering conferences at the University of Chicago and Stanford University, catalyzed by the newly formed Climate Systems Engineering initiative at UChicago.
  • Aim: The paper seeks to understand the benefits, risks, and governance of technologies that might reduce the impacts of accumulated greenhouse gases.
  • Major Areas of Research: The report identifies major areas of research for the future, including determining what natural processes might limit ice sheet deterioration and what human interventions could enhance those processes. 

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Glacier Geoengineering Intervention Proposed

  • Fibre-based Curtains: These consist of berms or fibre-based “curtains” attached to the seabed around the feet of ice shelves, which reduce the ice shelves’ exposure to warm ocean water circulating under them.
    • Modelling studies suggest that modest curtains could slow sea level rise from the melting of these glaciers by a factor of 10, as they would delay the collapse of Antarctica’s Thwaites and Pine Island glaciers.
    • For Example, The Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica might require as little as 50 miles of seabed nets and curtains to make a difference.
  • Drilling Holes through the Glacier Bed: This potential intervention involves drilling holes through the glacier bed (to either drain water from below the ice before it affects the glacier or to try to freeze the glacier bed artificially)  to slow the flow of streams that carry meltwater off the ice sheet into the sea.
    • Hypothesis: Reducing the amount of meltwater would cause the ice stream to freeze up and halt melting. 

Need for Geoengineering Interventions

  • Tipping Point: There have been documented changes in every major glacier system worldwide, and as climate change continues, these massive ice sheets will melt, leading to rising global sea levels 
    • The sixth assessment report (AR6)  by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimated that the global sea level could rise between 0.43 m and 0.84 m by 2100 relative to 1986–2005.
  • Avoid Hasty Decisions: Geoengineering technologies are one of the mitigation strategies employed to survive the effects of climate change. Early actions, such as funding research and developing technologies, are necessary so as not to make panicked decisions when adversity is finally at the doorstep.

Drawbacks

  • Changing local Ecology: Installing curtains could deflect warm water to nearby ice shelves, potentially reducing their stability while changing local ecology in uncertain ways. 
  • Disruption of Indigenous lives: The installation would disrupt local sea life and the lives of people who live and depend on the ecosystem, including many Indigenous peoples.
  • Distraction from Climate Action: Geoengineering technologies are labelled as a ‘dangerous distraction’ from urgent climate action as they can divert attention from necessary immediate actions to a future date. The technologies also cannot be fairly governed globally and come with risks.
  • Heavy Technology Intensive: Although the drilling approach might be less harmful to ecosystems, but it might not be very effective as it would require a lot of engineering under harsh conditions.
  • Ensuring Effective collaboration: Any such interventions would need to be conducted with input from nations worldwide, calling for robust participation amongst all stakeholders, especially the Island states.
  • Effectiveness of the Potential Outcome: Most of the ice that would affect global sea levels is concentrated in a few areas in the Arctic and Antarctic, thus casting doubts about the possibility and effectiveness of such interventions.
  • There is limited scientific and economic understanding of glacial interventions, particularly regarding large-scale ice-sheet deterioration (most notably that caused by marine ice-sheet instability) associated with ice streams and glaciers in Antarctica and Greenland.

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During Its  27th meeting of the Plants Committee, CITES issued guidelines for its members involved in the sustainable harvest and trade of rosewood specimens 

CITES

  • The Report on the conservation and trade of CITES-listed rosewood tree species [Leguminosae (Fabaceae)] was published by CITES
    • The report included locations of existing rosewood NDFs to aid range states in effective data collection and management plans.
  • CITES recognised Rosewood Species: CITES regulates trade in rosewood species, including those in the genera Dalbergia, Afzelia, Khaya, and Pterocarpus. They are listed in Appendix II, indicating they are not immediately threatened with extinction but could be at risk if their trade is not regulated.

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Key Highlights of the Meeting

  • Most Threatened Rosewood Species: Pterocarpus erinaceus (African rosewood), native to West Africa, is regarded as among the most threatened rosewood species due to rampant over-exploitation and illegal trade. 
    • Trade Suspension: CITES in a press release, noted that the Range States of African Rosewood are undergoing trade suspension recommendations due to concerns about the sustainability and legality of the trade.
  • Capacity Building Efforts: The CITES secretariat was instructed to focus on capacity-building efforts for CITES-listed rosewood species, targeting 13 high-priority and 14 medium-priority species identified
  • Module on Non-Detriment Findings (NDF):  Connections need to be strengthened with the Module on Non-Detriment Findings (NDF) for tree species under the CITES-NDF Guidance.
    • Evidence-based NDFs are a fundamental element of CITES. They allow the sustainable trade in species, support livelihoods in their countries of origin and industries in production and destination countries, and protect them from future extinction.
  • Identifies various Rosewood Species: The Report identifies the country of origin and species vulnerability according to the IUCN and conservation priority and also outlines the species’ characteristics, their ecological roles, regeneration rates, and global trade levels, both legal and illegal.
  • Assessment to Determine NDFs: The detailed species information is vital for CITES Scientific Authorities to prepare informed NDFs and assess the volume of timber of CITES-listed Rosewood species to determine export quotas while ensuring their long-term survival in the wild 

About Rosewood 

  • Family: Rosewood is a commercial/trade term for timber from a range of tropical hardwoods in the Leguminosae (Fabaceae) family.
  • Distribution: Rosewood is a hardwood native to Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, Brazil, Africa, and Indonesia.

Indian Rosewood:

  • Dalbergia latifolia (East Indian rosewood, reddish-brown rosewood): Also called beetle and sisal, it is a premier timber species native to low-elevation tropical monsoon forests of southeast India.
  • Dalbergia sissoo (North Indian rosewood or Shisham): This fast-growing, hardy, deciduous crooked rosewood tree is native to the foothills of the Himalayas, ranging from Afghanistan in the west to Bihar, India, in the east. It has long, leathery leaves and whitish or pink flowers.
    • The tree can grow up to a height of 15-25 meters and has a dense, spreading crown.
  • Rosewood is a deep, ruddy brown to purplish-brown colour, richly streaked and grained with black resinous layers.
  • Usage: They are harvested and traded primarily for the manufacture of traditional furniture in Asia but other uses of the wood include turnery, panelling, guitar-making, and knife handles.
  • Overexploitation: The overexploitation of rosewood tree species in Asia has led to a shift in the trade to species with similar characteristics from countries in Latin America and Africa.
  • Protection Status: CITES APPENDIX II, Many of these species are now listed in CITES Appendix II due to concerns about the impact of trade on their survival
    • The most recent listings include all Dalbergia species at CoP17 in 2017 and all African populations of Afzelia, Khaya and Pterocarpus species at CoP19 in 2022.

 

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CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora)

  • It is an international agreement between governments that aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the species’ survival.
  • Adoption: CITES was drafted as a result of a resolution adopted in 1963 at a meeting of IUCN members, and it entered into force on 1 July 1975.
  • Membership: 184 Parties including India
  • Legally Binding: CITES is legally binding on the Parties but does not replace national laws. Each Party must adopt its own domestic legislation to ensure that CITES is implemented at the national level.
  • Appendix: The species covered by CITES are listed in three Appendices according to the degree of protection they need
    • Appendix I includes species threatened with extinction. Trade in specimens of these species is permitted only in exceptional circumstances.
    • Appendix II: It includes species not necessarily threatened with extinction but for which trade must be controlled to avoid utilization incompatible with their survival.
    • Appendix III: It contains species protected in at least one country that has asked other CITES Parties for assistance in controlling the trade.

 

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The 132nd session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) was recently held in London.

  • It addressed various critical issues and proposals for the future of global maritime operations.

Crucial Insights on the Focus Areas for India at the IMO Session

India is an elected member of the IMO Council in the category of countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade. India remains deeply committed to addressing the issue of seafarer abandonment and ensuring the safety and welfare of the maritime workforce. 

International Maritime Organization

 

  • Emphasis on the Urgent Issue of Seafarer Abandonment: India emphasised the ongoing crisis of seafarer abandonment, with 44 active cases involving 292 Indian seafarers. 
    • Achievement: India’s strong stance on the need for effective measures and oversight to resolve such issues was well received.
      • In recognition of its continued commitment to addressing seafarers’ issues, India secured its position as one of the eight governments representing IMO in the Joint Tripartite Working Group. 
    • Other Proposed Members: Philippines, Thailand, Liberia, Panama, Greece, the US, and France
    • Role of the Joint Tripartite Working Group: This group is dedicated to identifying and tackling seafarers’ issues and the human element in maritime operations. 
  • Maritime Cooperation and Innovation: India’s participation in the IMO Council session underscores dedication to international maritime cooperation and innovation. 
    • The establishment of the South Asian Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport is a testament to India’s leadership in promoting environmentally sustainable and technologically advanced maritime practices. 
      • India looks forward to collaborating with global partners to drive positive change in the maritime sector.
  • Commitment to Maritime Safety and Security: The Indian delegation also addressed concerns over disruptions in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and adjoining areas, which have been impacting shipping and trade logistics. 
    • Successful Missions: The Indian Navy’s successful missions were highlighted. These included rescuing a Marshall Island-flagged crude oil carrier, MV Marlyn Luanda, and the interception of the vessel MV Ruen off the coast of Somalia, ensuring the safety of crew members and handling piracy threats effectively.
  • South Asian Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (SACE-SMarT): India reiterated its proposal for the SACE-SMarT. 
    • Aim: To transform the maritime sector in India and South Asia into a technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable, and digitally proficient industry. 
    • Role: It will focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering technical cooperation, capacity-building, and digital transition. 
    • Significance: India’s leadership in evolving the SACE-SMarT in collaboration with the IMO’s global Maritime Technology Cooperation Centres (MTCCs) was highlighted as a significant step towards sustainable maritime development.

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About the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)

It is the United Nations specialised agency responsible for the safety and security of shipping and preventing marine and atmospheric pollution by ships.

  • History: In 1948, an international conference in Geneva adopted a convention formally establishing IMO (the original name was the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization, or IMCO, but the name was changed in 1982 to IMO).
    • The  IMO Convention entered into force in 1958 and the new Organization met for the first time the following year.
  • Members: IMO currently has 176 Member States and three Associate Members (Faroes, Hong Kong, China, and Macao, China.
    • India has been one of the earliest members of the IMO, having ratified its Convention and joined it as a member state in 1959.
  • Composition: Consists of an Assembly, a Council, five main Committees, and a number of Sub-Committees that support the work of the main technical committees.
  • Role of IMO: To promote safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient, and sustainable shipping through cooperation.
  • Key Conventions:
    • International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, as amended.
    • International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 and the Protocol of 1997 (MARPOL).
    • International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) as amended, including the 1995 and 2010 Manila Amendments.

 

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A study by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) shows that central India’s changing land use and infrastructure development are harming genetic connectivity among gaur and sambar populations.

National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS)

  • About: The National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) in Bangalore, Karnataka is a research institution specializing in fundamental biological research.
  • Operated by: It is affiliated with the Department of Atomic Energy of the Government of India and operates under the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR).
  • Role: NCBS is dedicated to conducting basic and interdisciplinary research in cutting-edge areas of biology. 
    • The faculty’s research interests span diverse fields, including Biochemistry, Biophysics, Bioinformatics, Neurobiology, Cellular Organization and Signaling, Genetics and Development, Theory and Modeling of Biological Systems, Ecology, and Evolution.

Key Findings and Implications

  • Role of Herbivores:
    • Vital Contribution: Herbivores such as gaur and sambar are crucial for ecosystem maintenance through vegetation management, seed dispersal, and as prey for carnivores.
    • Genetic Connectivity: Compared to carnivores, genetic connectivity among herbivores has been understudied, creating uncertainty about the impacts of habitat changes on their populations.
    • Implications: Disrupted genetic connectivity may result in inbreeding, diminished genetic diversity, and reduced resilience to diseases and environmental shifts.

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  • Threats to Connectivity:
    • Infrastructure Impact: Highways, railways, and other linear infrastructures act as barriers that fragment habitats and isolate animal populations.
    • Agricultural Expansion: Expansion of agricultural land, urbanization, and mining activities contribute to increased habitat fragmentation.
    • Genetic Exchange Challenges: Fragmented populations encounter obstacles in mating and genetic exchange, heightening the risk of local extinctions.
  • Research Methodology:
    • Collection Process: Fecal samples from gaur and sambar were gathered across multiple reserves and corridors in central India.
    • Technique Used: Next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods were utilized to analyze genetic material and identify population fragmentation.
    • Population Structure: Herbivore populations are fragmented into distinct genetic clusters, highlighting significant movement and gene flow barriers.
  • Ecosystem Health:
    • Genetic Connectivity: Essential for maintaining robust, adaptable populations capable of responding to environmental changes.
    • Impact on Vegetation: As primary consumers, herbivores shape vegetation structure and composition, influencing the entire food web.
    • Cascading Effects: Disruption in herbivore populations can cascade through ecosystem functions and biodiversity, affecting overall ecological health
  • Conservation Efforts:
    • Wildlife Connectivity: Implementing wildlife corridors, overpasses, and underpasses to aid animal movement across fragmented landscapes.

Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary 

  • About: Umed Paoni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary is connected to Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve via forest along the Wainganga River, a tributary of the Godavari.
  • Fauna:  The sanctuary is habitat to resident breeding tigers, herds of gaur, wild dogs, as well as rare species including flying squirrels, pangolins, and honey badgers.
    • Sanctuary Management: Enhancing the management and protection of small sanctuaries such as Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary is vital.
    • Integrating Conservation: Conservation policies should integrate genetic connectivity considerations alongside economic development plans.

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The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Kolkata bench directed the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) to investigate groundwater contamination in Sukinda Valley, Jajpur district, Odisha.

Chromium

 

  • It is a Shiny, hard metal with a silver-grey color.
  • Melting Point: High.
  • Source: Obtained from chromite ore.
  • Symbol and Atomic Number: Cr, 24.
  • Hardness: Third hardest element after carbon (diamond) and boron.
  • Forms of Chromium About Chromium
    • Trivalent Chromium (Cr(III)): Safe for humans.
    • Hexavalent Chromium (Cr(VI)): Toxic.
  • Trivalent Chromium (Cr(III)): Uses and Benefits
    • Trivalent Chromium Sources: Found in foods and supplements.
    • Blood Sugar Regulation: May help maintain normal blood sugar levels by improving insulin use.
    • Potential Benefits: Claimed to help with diabetes, high cholesterol, athletic performance, and bipolar disorder, though most claims lack strong scientific evidence.
  • Hexavalent Chromium (Cr(VI))
    • Toxicity: Highly toxic, harmful to human health, environment, and biodiversity.
    • Source: Mainly produced by human activities.

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What is Chromium Pollution? 

The Contamination of soil, water, and air with excessive levels of chromium compounds.

  • Main Concerns:
    • Soil: Disrupts soil quality and affects plant growth.
    • Water: Pollutes water sources, making them unsafe for consumption and harming aquatic life.
    • Air: Can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues when inhaled.
  • Sources of Chromium Pollution

    • Industrial Activities: Chrome plating, leather tanning, and stainless steel production release Cr(VI) into the environment.
    • Mining and Smelting: Chromite mining and ferrochrome production contribute to chromium pollution.
    • Waste Disposal: Improper disposal of chromium-containing waste leads to environmental contamination.

Chromium

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Sukinda Valley Area

  • Sukinda Valley in Odisha contains 97% of India’s chromite ore deposits.
  • It is also known as the land of “black diamond”. 
  • Water Contamination:
    • Approximately 70% of surface water and 60% of drinking water contain hexavalent chromium at levels more than double national and international standards.
    • The Brahmani River, the main water source for residents, is heavily contaminated.

 

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SDG India Index 2023-24, the fourth edition, was released by NITI Aayog.

About SDG India Index

  • It was first Launched in 2018 to drive SDG localization efforts.
  • It provides a comparative analysis of state and UT progress on SDGs and fosters collaboration by highlighting achievements and encouraging mutual learning among states and UTs.
  • SDG India IndexIt is developed through consultations with stakeholders, including states, UTs, MoSPI, ministries, and UN agencies.
  • It reflects the comprehensive nature of the Global Goals while considering national priorities.
  • SDG India Index 2023-24

    • The SDG India Index 2023-24 tracks the progress of all States and Union Territories (UTs) in India using 113 indicators aligned with the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation’s National Indicator Framework (NIF).
    • It calculates scores for each State and UT across the 16 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting their performance on individual goals.
    • Composite Scores, ranging from 0 to 100, are derived from these goal-wise scores to assess the overall performance of each sub-national unit.
    • A score of 100 indicates that a State/UT has achieved all targets for the SDGs, with higher scores indicating greater progress towards these goals.

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Importance of SDG India Index 2023-24

  • Reflects India’s Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

    • Demonstrates India’s alignment with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
    • Highlights national efforts to achieve global sustainability targets through measurable indicators.
  • Promotes Competitive Federalism Among States

    • Encourages states to compete and learn from each other’s best practices in achieving SDGs.
    • Fosters a spirit of collaboration and mutual learning to accelerate progress nationwide.
  • Integrates SDGs into National and Sub-national Development Plans

    • Provides a structured framework for integrating SDGs into both national and sub-national development strategies.
    • Enhances coordination and alignment of development efforts across different levels of governance, promoting holistic and sustainable development practices.

NITI Aayog’s Role

  • Leads national SDG adoption and monitoring efforts.
  • Promotes “competitive and cooperative federalism” among states and UTs.
  • Works with states and UTs to:
    • Institutionalize SDGs – integrate them into national and subnational development plans.
    • Develop capacity and encourage collaboration among stakeholders.
    • Take a “whole-of-society” approach for comprehensive SDG implementation.

Key highlights of the SDG India Index 2023-24

SDG India Index

  • Composite Score Improvement
    • India’s composite score improved significantly from 57 in 2018 to 71 in 2023-24.
    • This progression reflects enhanced national efforts towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Noteworthy Goal Achievements
    • Front Runner Goals: Goals 1 (No Poverty), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 13 (Climate Action) have entered the ‘Front Runner’ category (scores between 65-99).
      • Goal 13 (Climate Action): This goal saw the most substantial improvement, rising from 54 to 67, indicating enhanced focus on climate-related initiatives.
      • Goal 1 (No Poverty): Goal 1 also showed significant progress, increasing from 60 to 72, highlighting effective poverty alleviation measures.

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    • Sector-specific Progress

      • Significant strides in Goals 1, 3, 6, 7, 9, and 11 were noted, underscoring advancements in areas like health, sanitation, renewable energy, and infrastructure.
      • Government initiatives such as PM Awas Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, Jal Jeevan Mission, and others have contributed to these improvements.

SDG India Index

  • State and UT Performance
    • SDG India IndexPerformance Range: State scores range from 57 to 79, while UTs score between 65 and 77.
    • Increase in Front Runners: The number of States/UTs achieving Front Runner status increased to 32, up from 22 in the previous edition.
    • Notable Performers: There are 10 new States and UTs in the Front Runner category. 
      • These include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

Goal-wise progress of states based on the SDG India Index 2023-24

Goal Improvement Key Points
No Poverty 12 points (Front Runner)
  • Multidimensional poverty reduced  significantly.
  • Increased employment under MGNREGA.
  • Improved housing and health insurance coverage.
Zero Hunger Moved from Aspirant to Performer category in SDG
  • Increased coverage under the National Food Security Act.
  • Improved agricultural productivity (rice and wheat ) and GVA.
Good Health and Well-being Substantial increase ( 52 in 2018 to 77 in 2023-24)
  • Reduced maternal and child mortality rates.
  • Improved immunization coverage and institutional deliveries.
Quality Education Increased enrolment and improved infrastructure (from 87.26% in 2018-19 to  96.5% for 2021-22)
  • Achieved target pupil teacher ratio. 
  • Increased access to electricity and drinking water in schools. 
  • Maintenance of 100% parity between females and males in higher education
Gender Equality A significant increase (36 in 2018 to 49 in 2023-24.)
  • Improved sex ratio at birth (929 females per 1,000 males)
  • Increased female labor force participation and economic equality.
  • Progress in family planning access.
  • Access to mobile phones by women. 
Clean Water and Sanitation Increased  from 63 in 2018 to 89 in 2023-24
  • Universal household toilet coverage and ODF verification (94.7%)
  • Improved drinking water sources in rural areas (99.29%)
  • Reduced water resource overexploitation (from 17.24% in 2017 to 11.23% in 2022.)
Affordable and Clean Energy Highest score improvement (from 51 in 2018 to 96 in 2023-24)
  • 100% household electricity access.
  • Increased clean cooking fuel usage ((LPG + PNG) connections from 92.02% (2020) to 96.35% (2024))
Decent Work and Economic Growth Strong economic growth (5.88% of annual growth rate )
  • Reduced unemployment rate and increased labor force participation.
  • Improved financial inclusion (55.63% of accounts in Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY))
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Increased from 41 in 2018 to 61 in 2023-24
  • Improved rural connectivity with all weather roads.
  • Access to one mobile phone in each household  and internet penetration in villages.
Reduced Inequalities Increased representation (Panchayati Raj Institutions by women and SC/ST persons)
  • More women in Panchayati Raj institutions (45.61% seats)
  • Increased representation of SC/ST communities in legislatures.
Sustainable Cities and Communities Significant increase (from 39 in 2018 to 83 in 2023-24) 
  • Improved sewage treatment and waste management in urban areas.
  • High coverage of door-to-door waste collection  (97%) and source segregation (90%). 
Responsible Consumption and Production Improved waste management
  • Increased treatment of biomedical waste (91.5%) and recycling of hazardous waste (from 44.89% in 2018-19 to 54.99% in 2022-23). 
Climate Action Drastic improvement (from 54 (Performer category) to 67 (Front Runner category). 
  • Increased use of renewable energy and industry compliance with environmental standards.
Life on Land  Increased score (from 66 in Index 3 (2020-21) to 75 in Index 4 (2023-24).) 
  • Increased forest and tree cover along with improved carbon stock (1.11% increase) 
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions Increased legal identity and crime reporting
  • High Aadhaar coverage (95.5% of the population)  and birth registration rates (89% of births) 
  • Improved charge sheeting rate for IPC crimes (71.3% charge)  

 

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Key interventions facilitating SDG achievements include

  • PM Awas Yojana (PMAY): Over 4 crore houses built under this scheme.
  • Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM): 11 crore Toilets & 2.23 lakh Community Sanitary Complexes in rural areas.
  • PM Ujjwala Yojana: 10 crore LPG connections distributed under this scheme.
  • Jal Jeevan Mission:  over 14.9 crore households provide tap water connections.
  • Ayushman Bharat -Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana: Over 30 crore beneficiaries covered under this scheme.
  • National Food Security Act (NFSA): Provides subsidised food to over 80 crore beneficiaries.
  • PM-Jan Dhan Accounts:  Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of ₹34 lakh crore made through.
  • ThSkill India Mission: over 1.4 crore youth are being trained and upskilled, and has reskilled 54 lakh youth.
  • PM Mudra Yojana:  43 crore loans aggregating ₹22.5 lakh crore were sanctioned for the entrepreneurial aspirations of the youth, in addition to Funds of Funds.
  • The Saubhagya scheme for access to electricity.

 

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As World Population Day is observed on July 11th, there is much to look at in India’s demographic journey over the decades.

  • This annual event voices against global population growth and proposes creating a sustainable world for future generations. 

About World Population Day

The Day is celebrated annually to emphasise the urgency and importance of population issues. 

  • Establishment: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was established in 1989, the day after Dr. K.C. Zachariah, a renowned demographer, proposed the concept of a ‘World Population Day’. 
  • Origin: To the “Day of Five Billion” (July 11th, 1987), when the world population had touched five billion (in 1987) and challenges such as poverty, health and gender inequality were plaguing the world, developing countries in particular.
  • Theme of World Population Day 2024: “Leave no one behind, count everyone” 
    • The theme highlights the importance of investing in data collection to understand issues, tailor solutions, and drive progress. 
    • The theme changes annually and is decided by the UNDP in coordination with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
  • We need to Celebrate World Population Day. This day focuses on population issues and spreads awareness regarding the negative impact of overpopulation. 
    • The rise in population causes many public health challenges, results in environmental degradation, and strains resources. Raising awareness about the crucial issues that foster discussion and finding solutions is important.

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A few Important Facts About the Population

The world’s population is more than three times larger than it was in the mid-twentieth century. 

  • World Population Prospects Report: The global population is projected to grow from 8.2 billion in 2024 before peaking at around 10.3 billion in the mid-2080s.
    • The world’s population is expected to reach 2 billion in the next 30 years and 9.7 billion in 2050.
  • Most Populous Countries: The two most populous countries are India and China; both have over 1 billion people, representing nearly 18% of the world’s population. 

Analysis of India’s Population Dynamics

Three components, namely fertility, mortality, and migration, play a pivotal role in shaping India’s demographic landscape. 

  • United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Report: In April 2023, India overtook China to become the world’s most populous country, with more than 1.4 billion citizens.
    • As much as 68% of India’s population belongs to the 15-64 years category, and 26% in the 10-24 years group, making India one of the youngest countries in the world.
    • The percentage of the elderly population has been increasing from 6.8% in 1991 to 9.2% in 2016.

World Population Day

  • Factors for Slow Rate of Population Growth: Increased use of contraceptive methods, spacing of pregnancies, access to health care and the impetus to family planning, besides increasing wealth and education
  • World Population DayDecline in Fertility Rate: According to the Sample Registration System survey conducted yearly by the Indian government, the birth rate declined steadily from 2011 to 2020.
    • According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5, India’s total fertility rate (TFR) decreased from 3.4 to 2 between 1992 and 2021, dropping below the replacement level of 2.1.
      • It means below the replacement level of fertility, or the rate at which a generation replaces itself.
    • However, the number of people in the country is still expected to continue to rise for the next few decades, hitting its peak of 1.7 billion by 2064.
  • Decline in Mortality Rates: There has been a significant drop in the mortality rate as well. 
    • The average life expectancy of Indians has also increased over time. With this, India is experiencing a demographic shift, towards an ageing population. 
    • Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR): It decreased from 384.4 in 2000 to 102.7 in 2020 
    • Mortality Rate for Children under Five: It reduced significantly post 2000s. 
    • Infant Mortality Rate: It also reduced from 66.7 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 25.5 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2021 
    • According to the 2011 Census, individuals aged 60 years and above constituted 8.6% of the total population. The figure is projected to rise to 19.5% by 2050. 
  • Migration and Urbanisation: The rural to urban migration of the Working age population has led to increased labour force in the Urban areas.
  • Other Components: In addition to fertility, mortality, and migration, following factors also play a significant role:
    • Public Policy: Such as Family policy, immigration policy, health policy, education policy, etc. have a significant impact on demography of India.
    • Environmental Factors: Environmental factors and demography influence each other.

What do these Changing Dynamics Signify?

India’s population dynamics is intertwined with its ‘development’ scenario. 

  • Reduction in Fertility Rate: It signifies a transition toward smaller family norms. 
    • This can reduce the proportion of the dependent population and India can harness the potential of its young workforce by creating employment. 
  • Decline in Mortality Rate and Increase in Life Expectancy: These are reflections of a robust health-care system and increased living standards. 
    • The issue of population ageing, however, requires a long-term plan — focusing on geriatric care and providing social security benefits. 
  • Rapid Rural to Urban Migration: It is posing a threat to the existing urban infrastructure. 
  • Others: Gender equality also finds an important place. Women labour force participation, which is straggling, are the silent issues which can sabotage India’s path to 2030.

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Opportunities with Demographic Dividend in India

Demographic dividend refers to the growth in an economy that is the result of a change in the age structure of a country’s population. This typically happens due to declining birth rates and mortality rates, leading to a larger proportion of the population being in the working age group (15-64 years old) compared to the dependent groups (children and elderly).

  • Increased Labour Participation: The rapidly rising young population results in the increased labour supply, as more people reach working age.
  • More Economic Growth: Demographic dividend has historically contributed up to 15 % of the overall growth in advanced economies.
  • High Capital Formation: The pattern of saving increases with the decrease in the number of dependents, which increases national savings rates, increases the stock of capital in developing countries and provides an opportunity for enhanced capital formation through investment.
  • Rise in Infrastructure Development: Potential demographic dividend enables the government to divert resources from spending on children to investing in physical and human infrastructure.
  • Increase in Female Labour Participation: Decrease in fertility rates result in healthier women and fewer economic pressures, and provides an opportunity to engage more women in the workforce and enhance human capital.
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship: A young population can lead to increased innovation and entrepreneurship, with more startups and unicorns emerging in various sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and financial services.
  • Favourable Climate Action and Sustainability: A young and educated population can drive sustainable development by prioritising climate action and adopting environmentally friendly practices.
  • More Global influence: India’s rising population, along with its position as the world’s largest democracy and one of the major economies, can help it become a global manufacturing hub, startup capital, and exporter of skilled manpower.

Concerns Related to High Population

The following challenges associated with high populations need to be considered and tackled.

  • Adverse Economic Consequence: Rampant poverty, rising inequality and widespread unemployment and underemployment.
    • Prevalence of Inequality: According to Oxfam, the top 10% of India’s population holds 77% of the national wealth. If development does not percolate to the poorest of the poor, then ‘sustainable development’ can never be achieved in its truest sense.
    • Jobless Growth: As per the NSSO Periodic Labour Force Survey 2017-18, India’s labour force participation rate for the age-group 15-59 years is around 53%. 
      • This means that around half of the working age population is jobless. 
    • Rise in Informal Economy: The workers in the Informal economy are underpaid and devoid of social security benefits.
  • Negative Social Consequences
    • Low Women Participation in the Labour Force: World Bank data shows that female labour participation in India plunged from 32% in 2005 to 19% in 2021.
      • Periodic Labour Force Survey (2022-23): Female participation is only around 37.0%. 
    • Low Usage of Contraceptive: About half of all Indians still don’t use modern methods of contraception. The burden of contraceptive usage falls disproportionately on women, while condom usage remains unacceptably low at less than 10%.
  • Health Danger: Malnutrition and several illnesses are caused by a low standard of living.
    • Global Hunger Index (2023): India’s rank was 111 out of 125 countries. 
    • In terms of nutrition, stunting, wasting and underweight among children below five years and anaemia among women pose serious challenges. 
    • India’s epidemiological trajectory shows that the country has a double burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCD). 
    • India contributes a third of the global burden of malnutrition. 
      • Though the Indian government launched the Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nourishment (POSHAN) Abhiyaan in 2018, it will still require a miracle to fulfil the target of ‘Zero Hunger’ by 2030.
  • Formation of Poor Human Capital and Development: It is reflected in low employability among India’s graduates and postgraduates. 
    • According to ASSOCHAM, only 20-30 % of engineers find a job suited to their skills.
    • In UNDP’s Human Development Index, India ranks 134 out of 189 countries. 
  • Loss of Identity: Fear of loss of identity of ethnic minorities and migrants may also arise from overpopulation. 
    • It might fuel communalism and cause rifts in the social fabric based on religion and place of origin.
  • Governance and Environmental Challenge: Due to an increase in life expectancy and the resultant rise in the elderly population, healthcare and social security costs have increased.
    • Due to overpopulation and resultant environmental damage, infectious diseases evolve and spread easily. Eg: Covid-19.
  • Regional Variations in Fertility: Population heavy states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar continue to have very high fertility rates of 2.4 and 3 respectively.

Government Schemes for Potential Demographic Dividend

The government is committed to overcoming barriers related to access, misconceptions about contraceptive methods, lack of awareness, geographical and economic challenges, and restrictive social and cultural norms.

  • Mission Parivar Vikas: It aims to increase access to contraceptives and family planning services in certain high fertility districts.
  • National Family Planning Indemnity Scheme: It insures its clients in case of death, complication and failure following sterilisation. Additionally, family-planning services are being extended to the last mile through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
    • In 2012, the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A) approach was introduced alongside the emphasis on family planning through Family Planning 2020 and now Family Planning 2030.
  • The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA): It came into effect in 2006 and played a critical role in addressing rural poverty. 
  • The Janani Suraksha Yojana of 2005: It provides cash benefits to pregnant women — not only accentuated institutional deliveries but also saved poor families from hefty health expenditures.
  • National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC): It has been with the overall target of skilling/ up-skilling 500 million people in India by 2022.
  • Others: The Government has provided various successful schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Integrated Child Development (ICDS) programmes.
    • As endorsed in the United Nations International Conference on Population Development (ICPD), India has not only provided leadership to the ICPD agenda but has also demonstrated progress through improved family-planning services and improving health outcomes, especially maternal health and child health.

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Way Forward

India needs to address income inequality, harness its demographic dividend by creating job opportunities for the youth of India and address changing health needs. For India to achieve the SDGs, the changing population dynamics has to be acknowledged while forming policies. 

  • Empowerment of Women: More gender equal societies have lower fertility rates and improved demographic indicators.
    • NFHS 5 points out that girls who study longer have fewer children and also take up employment.
    • As women become more empowered, they are also better valued as members of the society, thus reducing the felt need for a male child. The success of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign in Haryana is a case in point.
  • Capacity Development: Two-thirds of India’s total population is between the ages of 15 and 64. 
    • Education, skill development and creating opportunities, especially for the youth of disadvantaged sections and women, will hold the key to the country using the demographic dividend to its advantage in the next 20 years.
  • Building Human Capital: There is a need to invest in healthcare, quality education, jobs and skills to build human capital, which can in turn support economic growth, end extreme poverty, and create a more inclusive society.
  • Improvement of Health and Nutrition: Improvement in healthcare infrastructure would ensure a higher number of productive days for the young labour-force, which increases the productivity of the economy. 
    • NCDs, which incur high out-of-pocket expenditures, are catastrophic for some families. India needs a stronger safety net to save these families from slipping into utter poverty. 
    • The nutrition scenario should be set right by strengthening programmes. This will require an increase in budgetary allocation for the health and nutrition sectors. 
  • More Job Creation: The nation needs to create ten million jobs per year to absorb the addition of young people into the workforce. 
    • There is a need to promote businesses’ interests and entrepreneurship would help in job creation to provide employment to the large labour-force.
  • Emulating the Success of Southern States: Fertility reduction was successful in five southern states defies conventional wisdom that literacy, education, and development are required for population stabilisation.
    • Southern governments actively encouraged families to have only two children, followed by sterilisation.
    • Male vasectomy, which is far safer than female sterilisation, should be promoted by national and state policies.
  • Increase Family Planning Expenditure: India’s per-capita gross domestic product can rise an additional 13% by 2031 if family planning policies are actively prioritised.
    • This can prevent 2.9 million infant deaths and 1.2 million maternal deaths and save households Rs 77,600 crore (20%) of out-of-pocket health expenditure on childbirth and child hospitalisation.
  • Focus on Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): With 2030, the target year, drawing closer, India’s progress in the SDGs should be understood particularly in light of its population dynamics.
    • ‘Development’ in the simplest way means ensuring the basic requirements of food, shelter and health for all. ‘No Poverty, Zero Hunger and Good Health’ are the three most important SDGs which form the core of ‘development’. 
  • Others: The proportion of the population living below the poverty line reduced from 48% to 10% between 1990 and 2019. 

Conclusion

India’s demographic dividend must navigate the complexities of sustainable development, urbanisation, and migration. Integrating these factors into the policies ensures that demographic growth translates into a sustainable future and inclusive prosperity. Successful interventions must go hand-in-hand with niche strategies.

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The Maharashtra government has tabled a bill, the Maharashtra Special Public Security Act, 2024, which empowers the state to label any group as illegal by notification in the official Gazette.

Urban Naxalism

About: The term “urban naxals” is loosely applied to individuals in urban areas who support and promote Naxalite ideology through activism and advocacy, while active naxals engage in combat in the jungles and extensive Maoist-controlled regions.

Origin of Naxalism in India

  • Term: The term ‘Naxalism’ derives its name from the village Naxalbari of West Bengal.
  • Development in India: Naxalism in India emerged as a breakaway faction from the Communist Party of India (Marxist), where a small group of party members separated to launch an armed struggle against large landowners and the establishment.
    • The rebellion, initiated in 1967 under the leadership of Charu Majumdar, Kanu Sanyal and Jagan Santhal, aimed to redistribute land to working peasants. 
  • Spread of the Naxalite Movement: Originating in West Bengal, the movement has since spread across Eastern India, particularly in less developed regions of states like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
  • Origin: The term ‘Urban Naxals’, which has gained currency since 2018, was first used to describe anti-establishment protesters and other dissenters in the wake of the crackdown on left-wingers and other liberals embroiled in the Elgaar Parishad case in Maharashtra. 
    • It is one of the two ongoing investigations related to the Bhima Koregaon violence of January 1, 2018.
  • Controversy regarding the term: Some view it as a derogatory label used to stifle dissent, while others consider it a valid description of those who support Naxalite ideology in urban settings
  • Manifestation of Naxalite Ideology in Urban Settings: Some of the forms of manifestation include publishing articles and books and organising seminars to propagate their ideology and criticise state policies, radicalising students, establishing a network of sympathisers,acts of sabotage, targeted violence, or symbolic attacks to disrupt state functioning, etc.
  • Naxalism’s Urban Spread: A Growing Concern: Naxalism extends beyond remote areas into urban centres through Naxal frontal organisations.
    • These frontal organisations/groups provide logistical support and safe havens for armed cadres.
    • Urban areas face mounting challenges from the expanding influence of Naxal fronts.

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Ideological Background

  • Ideology rooted in: The Naxalite/Maoist ideology is rooted in Marxism, Leninism, and Maoism, advocating for a revolutionary overthrow of the existing state structure through armed struggle. 
    • It is considered that Naxals support Maoist political sentiments and ideology.
  • Maoism: Maoism is a form of communism developed by Mao Tse Tung. It is a doctrine of capturing State power through a combination of armed insurgency, mass mobilisation, and strategic alliances.
  • Key tenets include:
    • Class Struggle: Emphasis on the conflict between the proletariat (working class) and the bourgeoisie (capitalist class). The ultimate goal is to establish a classless society.
    • Anti-State Sentiment: The state is viewed as an instrument of bourgeois oppression. Therefore, dismantling the current state structure is essential for achieving true democracy and social justice.
    • Self-Reliance and Guerrilla Warfare: Promotes self-sufficient, decentralised communes and the use of guerrilla tactics to combat state forces, primarily operating from rural and forested regions.

Maharashtra Special Public Security Act, 2024

  • Objectives: Aim to address the growing menace of Naxalism in urban areas.
  • Some Key Provisions of the  Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill
    • Definition of Organisation: According to the draft bill, ‘organisation’ is defined as any group of individuals, whether identified by a specific name or not, and regardless of whether they operate under a formal written constitution or not.
    • Definition of Unlawful Activity: The bill broadly defines “unlawful activity” to include actions that threaten public order, peace, and tranquillity or interfere with the administration of law and established institutions. 
      • It encompasses indulging in or promoting violence, vandalism, or acts causing public fear and apprehension
      • Additionally, it covers activities that encourage disobedience to established laws and authorities, aiming to maintain societal harmony and prevent disturbances to public order.
    • Seizure of Assets: The draft bill allows the state to seize movable property, including money, securities, and other assets within premises. 
      • This law allows police to check premises for literature related to “urban Naxalism.” If found, such literature can be seized.
      • Confiscated assets can be forfeited to the government if the District Magistrate or Commissioner of Police believes they could support unlawful organisation activities.
  • Non-bailable offences: All offences under this law will be cognizable and non-bailable and will be investigated by a police officer, not below the rank of a Sub-Inspector.

Enactment of similar Acts in Other States

  • Public Security Acts: Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha have implemented Public Security Acts to prevent unlawful activities by organisations.
  • Banning of Frontal Organisations: These states have collectively banned 48 frontal organisations associated with these activities.

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Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) Recommendations

  • Urges Maoist-affected states to enact legislation to curb unlawful activities and provides guidelines for security-related expenditure.

Criticism against the Maharashtra Special Public Security Act, 2024

  • Broad Definitions: Critics argue that “organisation” and “unlawful activity” are overly broad and vague, potentially allowing for arbitrary or politically motivated targeting of individuals and groups.
  • Impact on Dissent: There are fears that the act could stifle dissent and legitimate forms of protest by categorising them as unlawful activities.
    • The vague drafting suggests it intends to instil fear among human rights activists and restrict their activities, potentially targeting any citizen advocating for systemic change.
  • Curtailment of freedom of Rights: The Bill is criticised for suppressing freedom of speech and expression and hindering non-violent protests against oppression. 
  • Overlapping Provisions: Critics argue that its provisions largely overlap with existing laws like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, National Security Act, and Public Safety Acts. 
  • Legal and Human Rights Concerns: There are concerns about potential violations of due process rights, including the right to a fair trial and protection against arbitrary detention.

Elgar Parishad Event and Battle of Koregaon Bhima

Elgar Parishad Event:

  • Event: The Elgar Parishad was organised at the Shaniwarwada Fort in Pune to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Koregaon Bhima.
    • It symbolised Dalit assertiveness, as it took place at the historical seat of authority of the Peshwas (de facto rulers of the Maratha Empire).
    • Police claim that speeches made at Elgaar Parishad were at least partly responsible for instigating violence the next day.
  • Several individuals, including activists and leaders, were prosecuted under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
  • In the courts, the Pune police have claimed that the arrested activists had active links to the CPI(Maoist), which was engaged in destabilising the country and working against national security.
  • The chargesheet alleges that the accused organised the Elgar Parishad through the Kabir Kala Manch (KKM) “frontal” organisation to incite communal disharmony. They reportedly performed provocative songs, short plays, and dances, distributed books, and circulated Naxal literature to exploit caste sentiments among Dalits and other groups across Maharashtra. 

Battle of Koregaon Bhima:

  • Context: The battle occurred during the Third Anglo-Maratha War.
  • Opposing Forces:
    • British Army: Comprised mainly of Dalit soldiers.
    • Peshwa Army: Dominated by the upper caste.
  • Outcome: The British troops emerged victorious, defeating the Peshwa forces.
  • Significance: The defeat of the Peshwa army was seen as a triumph against caste-based discrimination and oppression.
  • Legacy: Babasaheb Ambedkar’s visit to the site on January 1, 1927, revitalised the memory of the battle for the Dalit community, making it a rallying point and an assertion of pride.

Conclusion

The Maharashtra Urban Naxal Bill 2024 represents a contentious step towards addressing perceived threats of Naxalism in urban areas. 

  • Critics argue it risks infringing on civil liberties and stifling dissent, while proponents view it as necessary for maintaining public order and security in the state. 
  • Its implementation and impact will likely continue to spark debate over the balance between security measures and fundamental rights.

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