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PM GatiShakti Southern Zone District Level Capacity Building Workshop held in Thiruvananthapuram.

PM GatiShakti

• About: PM GatiShakti (PMGS) or National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity was launched on October 13, 2021, to facilitate integrated multimodal connectivity using indigenous technology. 
• Framework: Its framework includes an inter-ministerial mechanism at both the Centre and State levels, along with a GIS-based decision support system, enhancing infrastructure planning and development across the country.
• Objective:
  • Provides multimodal connectivity infrastructure to various economic zones.
  • Aims to drive economic growth and sustainable development.
• Seven Engines of PM GatiShakti: Railways, Roads, Ports, Waterways, Airports, Mass Transport and Logistics Infrastructure
• Supportive Components:
  • Complementary roles of Energy Transmission, IT Communication, Bulk Water & Sewerage, and Social Infrastructure.
  • Powered by Clean Energy and collaborative efforts of the Central Government, state governments, and the private sector.
• Alignment and Synergy:
  • Projects in the “National Infrastructure Pipeline” aligned with the PM GatiShakti framework.
  • Emphasis on modern infrastructure and logistics synergy among different modes of movement and project locations.
  • Aims to enhance productivity and accelerate economic growth.

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• Gati Shakti Digital Platform: It involves the creation of a common umbrella platform through which infrastructure projects can be planned and implemented in an efficacious manner by way of coordination between various ministries/departments on a real-time basis.
• Digital Master Planning Tool: 
  • The Digital Master Planning tool is the hub where all the ministries will update their data periodically for planning, review, and monitoring.
  • Developed by BISAG-N (Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geoinformatics).
  • Uses a dynamic Geographic Information System (GIS) platform.
  • Integrates data from various Ministries and Departments within a comprehensive database.
  • Features real-time mapping and satellite imagery from ISRO, hosted on MEGHRAJ (Government cloud).

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Scientists have found that melting polar ice caps are causing the Earth to spin slower, resulting in tiny changes in day length. 

Earth Rotation and Length of the Day on Earth

• Rotation of the Earth: 
  • The rotation of earth is the continuous spinning of our planet on its axis, which is an imaginary line passing through the North and South Poles. 
  • Day and Night: The rotation of earth is responsible for the cycle of day and night. 
    • As one side of the Earth faces the Sun, it experiences daylight, while the opposite side is in darkness, creating nighttime.
    • The boundary between these regions is called the terminator.
  • Duration: It takes approximately 24 hours for Earth to complete one full rotation, resulting in a wide range of fascinating natural phenomena and impacts on our daily lives.
• Length of the Day on Earth: 
  • The length of a day on Earth can be described in two ways:
  • Sidereal Day: This is the time it takes for Earth to complete one full rotation relative to the distant stars. A sidereal day lasts approximately 23 hours and 56 minutes
  • Solar Day: This is the time it takes for the Sun to return to the same position in the sky.
    • A solar day, which we commonly refer to as a “day,” is approximately 24 hours. 
    • However, due to Earth’s variable rotation speed, solar days can be slightly longer or shorter than 24 hours.

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• Some of the Factors Affecting the Length of the Day:
  • Lunar Tidal Friction: Slows Earth’s rotation over time due to the Moon’s gravitational pull.
  • Mass Distribution: Melting polar ice redistributes Earth’s mass from the poles toward the equator, which can alter the planet’s rotation speed.
  • Earthquakes and Volcanic Activity: Large geological events can shift Earth’s mass, leading to minor changes in rotation speed.
  • Crustal Rebound: After the last ice age, melting ice caused the Earth’s crust to rebound, which affected rotation.
  • Ocean Currents: Large-scale changes in ocean currents can also influence rotational speed.
  • Anthropogenic Activities: Large-Scale Engineering Projects or changes in land use can contribute to slight variations in Earth’s rotation.

Recent Findings

• Slowing of Earth Rotation: Over the past 20 years, melting ice has slowed Earth’s rotation by about 1.3 milliseconds per century. If high emission rates continue, this could increase to 2.6 milliseconds per century.
• Climate Change and Earth’s Rotation: Scientists have discovered that melting polar ice caps are causing Earth to spin more slowly. This change, though minute, affects how we measure time, which is crucial for technology like GPS and space travel.
• Impact of Melting Polar Ice
  • Pole-to-Equator Mass Flux: Melting ice from polar regions moves towards the equator.
  • Increased Oblateness: As ice melts, Earth’s shape becomes more elongated around the equator.
• Effect on Earth’s Rotation
  • Slower Rotation: The redistribution of mass towards the equator causes Earth to spin more slowly. 
  • Longer Days: As a result, the time required for Earth to complete one rotation increases, lengthening the duration of a day.
• Impact on Technology: Although the changes are tiny, they are significant for precise timekeeping systems. 
  • Even small discrepancies can affect GPS, stock trading, and space missions.
• Current and Historical Trends: The Earth’s rotation is already affected by processes like lunar tidal friction, which slows it down by about 2 milliseconds per century. 
  • The addition of leap seconds helps keep atomic clocks in sync with Earth’s rotation.
• Effects of Ice Melt and Earth’s Core: Melting ice from the poles has caused the Earth’s crust to rebound, potentially speeding up the Earth’s rotation.
• Potential for  a Negative Leap Second: This phenomenon could lead to debates about whether a negative leap second is needed to adjust for the faster rotation caused by the melting ice and other factors.
• Shifts in Earth’s Axis
  • Earth’s Axis refers to the imaginary line that Earth rotates around, running vertically through the North and South Poles.
  • Climate change and melting polar ice are affecting the axis of rotation.
  • Research shows that melting ice drives the Earth’s polar motion, causing slight shifts in the axis of rotation.
• Consequences for Coastal Areas
  • Rising sea levels from melting ice have more severe impacts on low-lying coastal areas than changes in rotational speed or axis wobble.
  • These effects highlight the broader implications of climate change and the urgent need to reduce emissions.

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Antibiotics are often hailed as miracle drugs, capable of curing once-deadly infections and saving countless lives. However, its overuse and misuse in humans, animals, and agriculture have severe and often overlooked consequences. 

• While the world is acutely aware that such practices drive antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the most concerning is the significant disturbance antibiotics induce to the human microbiome— a disruption that spreads to almost every organ system in the human body. 

About Microbes

The human body is home to a vast, intricate community of microorganisms collectively known as the microbiome. 

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• Comprises: This includes bacteria, fungi and viruses. Human bodies host approximately 38 trillion microbial cells, outnumbering our own cells, which total around 30 trillion. 
• Importance: The diversity and balance of human microbial communities are vital. The gut microbiome, in particular, plays a crucial role in maintaining health. 
  • Gut Microbes: They also play a crucial role in regulating metabolism.
    • It helps in digestion, supports the immune system, produces essential nutrients like vitamin K and certain B vitamins, and protects against pathogens (an infectious microorganism or agent, such as a virus, bacterium, protozoan, prion, viroid, or fungus). 
    • The gut microbiome interacts with various organs through complex networks known as gut-organ axes, which influence the overall health and functioning of the body. 
  • Skin Microbiomes: They protect against harmful microorganisms and support skin health. 
  • Respiratory Tract Microbiomes: They help defend against respiratory infections and maintain respiratory health. 

About Antibiotics

An antibiotic is a type of antimicrobial substance active against bacteria. 

• Refers: It is the most important type of antibacterial agent for fighting bacterial infections, and antibiotic medications are widely used in the treatment and prevention of such infections. They may either kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria.
• Concern: 
  • Evolving for Resistant: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when pathogens evolve, become resistant to drugs, and stop responding to antimicrobial drugs. 
    • While it is the nature of pathogens to evolve, this ever-increasing crisis is exacerbated by unsound medical, and animal husbandry practices. 
  • Colonisation Resistance: One particularly concerning aspect of antibiotic use is its impact on colonisation resistance. This is the ability of the native gut microbiome to protect against colonisation by pathogenic microorganisms. 
    • Beneficial bacteria consume available nutrients, limiting resources for pathogens. Antibiotic use can reduce colonisation resistance, allowing harmful bacteria to take hold and proliferate, increasing the risk of infections.
  • Data by the World Health Organization (WHO): As per WHO, the bacterial AMR was directly responsible for 1.27 million global deaths in 2019 and contributed to 4.95 million deaths. 
    • AMR makes infections harder to treat, renders other medical procedures and treatments such as surgery, cesarean sections and cancer chemotherapy much more risky. 
    • Infectious diseases specialists and critical-care experts have warned over AMR, calling for rational prescription of antibiotics, and curbs on the use of drugs to promote growth in animals and plants. 
• About Antibiotic Resistance: It refers to the ability of bacteria or other microbes to withstand the effects of antibiotics, rendering them ineffective in treating infections. 
  • For example, extensively drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa is highly resistant to multiple antibiotics. 
• Measures to Address Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in India:
  • National Programme on AMR Containment (2012): This program strengthens the AMR surveillance network by establishing labs in State Medical Colleges to monitor and address antimicrobial resistance.
  • National Action Plan on AMR (2017): This plan takes a One Health approach, involving various ministries and departments to tackle antimicrobial resistance collectively.
  • AMR Surveillance and Research Network (AMRSN) (2013): This network collects data to identify trends and patterns of drug-resistant infections in India, aiding in evidence-based decision-making.
  • Antibiotic Stewardship Program (AMSP): Implemented as a pilot project across India, this program aims to control the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in hospital wards and intensive care units.
  • Ban on Inappropriate Fixed Dose Combinations (FDCs): The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has prohibited 40 fixed-dose combinations that were found to be inappropriate, promoting the responsible use of medications.

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Arising Concern of Dysbiosis

While antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial infections, their irrational use can wreak havoc on the microbiome. 

• About Dysbiosis: Antibiotics do not discriminate between harmful pathogens and beneficial bacteria and wipe out a large portion of the gut bacteria (especially the broad-spectrum antibiotics). This disruption is known as dysbiosis. 
• Various Concerns:  It can have severe and long-lasting effects. Even a single course of antibiotics can produce dysbiosis that lasts for months or even years.
  • • Dysbiosis can cause more severe conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. 
    • Dysbiosis can impair immune function, making the body more susceptible to infections and autoimmune diseases. 
  • Impact on Gut-organ Axes: 
    • The gut-brain axis links the gut microbiome with the brain, where dysbiosis can alter neurotransmitter levels and brain chemistry, affecting mood, cognition, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. 
    • The gut-liver axis involves the transport of bacterial metabolites and toxins from the gut to the liver. Dysbiosis can increase gut permeability (‘leaky gut’), allowing more toxins to reach the liver and exacerbating liver conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. 
    • The gut-skin axis involves the influence of the gut microbiome on skin health, where dysbiosis can exacerbate conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis by altering systemic immune responses and skin barrier function. 
    • The gut microbiome influences metabolic processes, including energy harvesting from food and the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. Dysbiosis can disrupt these processes, contributing to conditions like obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
  • Impact on Other Organs: Antibiotic use can potentially lead to respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The genitourinary microbiome, which includes the vaginal and urinary microbiomes, protects against infections and maintains urinary and reproductive health. Dysbiosis in these areas can result in conditions like bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections.
• Need To Do: It is crucial to use antibiotics judiciously. Implementing alternative practices, such as better hygiene, vaccination, and the use of bacteriophages, can reduce the reliance on antibiotics.
  • Bacteriophages: These are also known as phages and are viruses that infect and replicate only in bacterial cells. They are ubiquitous (found everywhere) in the environment and recognized as the earth’s most abundant biological agent.

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Conclusion

Antibiotics have revolutionised medicine, but their misuse poses serious threats. Antibiotics are a prime example of the medicine-poison paradox. Preserving the balance of the human microbiome is essential for maintaining health. We must carefully consider the use of antibiotics before taking them.

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The First-ever Phase 3 clinical trial for a dengue vaccine in India has been announced by the The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Panacea Biotec.

• Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials of the Indian vaccine formulation were completed in 2018-19, yielding promising results.

About DengiAll

• DengiAll is developed by Panacea Biotec is India’s indigenous tetravalent dengue vaccine
  • The tetravalent dengue vaccine strain (TV003/TV005) was originally developed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA
  • Process Patent: Panacea Biotec is one of three Indian companies to receive the strain, has developed a full-fledged vaccine formulation and holds a process patent for this work.
• The Trail: Panacea Biotec will conduct the Phase 3 clinical trial across 19 sites in 18 States and Union Territories of India in collaboration with ICMR
  • The Phase 3 trial primarily funded by ICMR will involve more than 10,335 healthy adult participants for 2 years 
• Vaccine status for Dengue in India: At present India does not have any antiviral treatment or licensed vaccine against dengue.
  • An effective vaccine for Dengue is complex as it is needed to achieve good efficacy for all four serotypes. In India, all four serotypes of Dengue virus are known to circulate or co-circulate in many regions.

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About Dengue

• Vector: Dengue viruses are spread through the bite of an infected Aedes species (Ae. aegypti or Ae. albopictus) mosquito.
  • These mosquitoes also spread chikungunya and Zika viruses.
• Hotspots: The mosquitoes that spread dengue are found in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including many parts of the United States.
• Serotype:The dengue virus has four serotypes, 1-4, with low cross-protection against each other, meaning individuals can experience repeated infections.
• Incidence: India ranks among the top 30 countries with the highest incidence of the disease. 
  • As per the World Health Organization (WHO),The global incidence of dengue has been steadily increasing over the past two decades, with more than 129 countries reporting dengue viral disease by the end of 2023
• Risk: Approximately 75-80% of infections are asymptomatic but these individuals can still transmit the infection through the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. 
  • Symptomatic: Children are at a greater risk amongst the 20-25% symptomatic cases with hospitalisation and mortality.
  • Adults can experience severe conditions like dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. 
• Dengue Burden In India: 
  • India officially recorded nearly 2.33 lakh cases with 303 deaths in  2022
  • Region Specific: A national-level survey conducted in India in 2017 reported the lowest prevalence of Dengue infections in the Northeastern region (1.6%) and the highest in the northern region (47%)
  • Endemic States: West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Gujarat, Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are the high dengue burden states as per the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC).
• Prevention and control: It depends on vector control. There is no specific treatment for dengue/severe dengue, and early detection and access to proper medical care greatly lower fatality rates of severe dengue.

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The introduction of the Brazilian insect ‘Cyrtobagous salviniae’ provided an effective and cost-efficient solution to the invasive aquatic weed ‘Salvinia molesta’ in Madhya Pradesh.

Background

• Infestation by Salvinia molesta: A Village in Betul district, Madhya Pradesh, faced severe livelihood challenges due to the infestation of the aquatic weed Salvinia molesta, locally known as “Chinese Jhalar.”
• Timeline of Infestation
  • The infestation of Salvinia molesta began in 2018.
  • By 2022, the reservoir was overwhelmed, leading to significant issues.

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Salvinia molesta

• About: It is a dense invasive free-floating plant that does not attach to the soil, but instead remains buoyant on the surface of a body of water. 
  • It has become a significant problem in various regions due to its rapid growth and ability to form dense mats on water surfaces.
• Origin and Spread
  • Salvinia molesta is originally from Brazil and Argentina.
  • It has spread worldwide through the aquarium and horticulture industries, reaching Australia, Africa, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and New Zealand.

• Introduction to India
  • In India, the weed was first observed in Veli Lake, Thiruvananthapuram, in 1955.
  • By 1964, it was classified as a ‘pest’ in India.
• Ecological Impact
  • Salvinia molesta has a significant ability to choke rivers, canals, lagoons, and other water sources, causing severe ecological disruptions.
  • It outgrows and replaces native aquatic plants, affecting food sources and habitats for animals and waterfowl.
• IUCN List: The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has added Giant Salvinia to its list of the world’s worst invasive alien species.Impact of the Invasion of Salvinia Molesta
• Ecological and Economic Damage
  • The weed’s dense coverage made water extraction impossible.
  • Fish populations died, and lotus plants rotted due to the infestation.
• Impact on Local Livelihoods
  • The severe weed growth disrupted local fishermen’s livelihoods.
  • Many fishermen were forced to migrate for work due to the economic hardship caused by the infestation.

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Introduction of Cyrtobagous Salviniae as a Solution

• About Cyrtobagous salviniae: It is used as an agent of biological pest control against the noxious aquatic plant giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta).
  • ‘Cyrtobagous salviniae’ was introduced to India from Australia in 1982, with successful trials in Bangalore and Kerala before reaching Central India.
• Proposed Solution
  • A team from Jabalpur proposed using the Brazilian insect ‘Cyrtobagous salviniae’, which targets and feeds on Salvinia molesta to control its spread.
  • These insects are bred at the Weed Research Directorate in Jabalpur, where research is also conducted to study their effects.
• Implementation
  • The insect was introduced to the affected ponds in September 2022.
  • Regular releases of the insect continued until March 2023.
• Results
  • The program achieved significant success, with the weed completely decomposing within 18 months, ahead of the expected time frame.
  • The effectiveness of the program led to crystal-clear water in previously affected lakes.
• Sustaining Cyrtobagous salviniae with Host Plants
• • As the presence of Salvinia molesta diminishes, additional green weed is introduced to sustain the insect population.
  • These insects rely on the weed as their host, and if the weed is not present, the insects cannot survive. 
  • The green weed is cultivated in tankers, where it is grown and later introduced into the pond

Advantages of the Organic Solution

• Cost Effective: The use of ‘Cyrtobagous salviniae’ was significantly more cost-effective compared to manual removal methods, which were estimated to cost 15-20 crores and take 5-6 years.
• Minimised risks: The organic method not only solved the problem efficiently but also minimised risks associated with manual removal of weeds.

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The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD) has requested ₹160 crore from Kamarajar Port in Ennore, Tamil Nadu to remove invasive mussels from the coast near the port.

Reason for Proliferation: The WRD has accused Kamarajar Port of contributing to the spread of the invasive charru mussel (Mytella strigata) by not properly regulating ballast water discharge from ships.

Invasive Species in India

• Spread in India: Nearly 30 invasive species have been identified in India due to ballast water from ships. One of the most damaging is the charru mussel.
• Charru Mussel’s Impact: The charru mussel has overtaken most other species in Pulicat Lake, Tamil Nadu, and Ashtamudi Lake, Kerala. 
  • The species has a high survival rate and produces many eggs, allowing it to thrive even in freshwater environments.
• Invasive Species Problem
  • Effect on Fishermen: The growth of these mussels is blocking fishing boats, which is hurting the livelihoods of fishermen.

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About Ballast Water

• Ballast water is water that ships use to stay balanced and steady while travelling. 
• Ships take in this water when they don’t have enough cargo or need extra stability in rough seas. 
• It also helps the ship sink lower in the water to pass under bridges or other obstacles.

Process of Ballast Water Management

• Taking on Ballast Water: When a ship delivers cargo to a port and departs with less or no cargo, ballast water is pumped into the tanks for stability.
• Transport and Release: This water is then transported to the ship’s next port-of-call, where it is released as the ship takes on more cargo. 

Challenges of Ballast Water

• Invasive Species Spread: Ballast water can transport non-native species to new areas. Once released, these species can invade and disrupt local ecosystems, outcompeting native species.
• Environmental Harm: The introduction of invasive species through ballast water can damage marine habitats, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt the natural food chain.
• Economic Consequences: Invasive species can harm local fisheries, tourism, and other industries that depend on healthy marine environments, leading to financial losses.
• Health Risks: Ballast water can also carry harmful bacteria and pathogens, potentially spreading diseases and posing health risks to new regions.
• Regulatory Challenges: Shipping companies face difficulties in meeting international regulations like the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, which require expensive equipment and strict procedures.
• Technical Difficulties: Installing and maintaining effective ballast water treatment systems on ships is often complex and costly, especially for older vessels that may need upgrades.

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India’s Position on Ballast Water Regulations

• Current Status: 97 countries have adopted the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, but India is not among them.
• Lack of Obligation: Since India has not signed the BWM Convention, ships entering Indian ports are not required to follow its regulations regarding ballast water.
  • Existing Regulations: While there are regulations for other issues, such as oil discharge, there are no specific checks or regulations for ballast water discharged in Indian ports.
• Legal Perspective: Indian ports are not liable for ballast water issues, as they only facilitate ship traffic.

Way Forward

• Sign the BWM Convention: India should formally adopt the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention.
  • This will obligate ships to follow international standards for managing ballast water, helping prevent the introduction of invasive species.
• Implement National Regulations: Develop and enforce national regulations for ballast water management at Indian ports.
  • This will ensure that all ships, regardless of their origin, comply with rules to manage and treat ballast water before discharge.
• Upgrade Port Infrastructure: Invest in facilities and technology for monitoring and treating ballast water at Indian ports.
  • Enhanced infrastructure will support effective implementation and enforcement of ballast water regulations.

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The Bombay High Court in a recent judgement ordered that a donor of eggs or sperm does not have legal entitlement as the biological parent over the child.  

Details About the Case

• Judgment: The Bench was hearing the plea challenging a Trial Court order that refused to give the petitioner visitation rights and access to the twin daughters born through surrogacy. 
  • The judgment noted that the lower Court Order denying visitation rights to the petitioner was without proper application of mind. 
  • The Bench granted visitation rights and access to the twin daughters to the petitioner.   
• The Judgement referred to the National Guidelines for Accreditation, Supervision, and Regulation of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) clinics in India, enacted in 2005 in its order.
• Argument: The woman (petitioner’s sister) argued that she had a legitimate right over the twins as their biological parent.
  • The women volunteered to donate her oocyte (eggs) for her sister and brother-in-law who couldn’t conceive naturally and said the sister

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Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs)

• ART technologies include all fertility treatments in which either eggs or embryos are handled. 
• Procedure: The ART procedures involve surgically removing eggs from a woman’s ovaries, combining them with sperm in the laboratory, and returning them to the woman’s body or donating them to another woman through surrogacy.
• Exclusion: ART technologies does not include treatments where only sperms are handled i.e., intrauterine or artificial insemination or procedures in which a woman takes medicine only to stimulate egg production without the intention of having eggs retrieved. 
• The First ART Treatment: The first successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment was carried out on humans in 1978 in England
  • ART in India: India’s first IVF baby, Kanupriya alias Durga, was born in Calcutta on October 3, 1978, is also the world’s second IVF baby born only two months after the world’s first IVF baby, Louise Brown.
• Use: In Vitro Fertilisation is employed for infertility related conditions like,
  • Infertility: male factor infertility, diminished ovarian reserve, ovarian failure (with donor eggs), ovulatory dysfunction, and unexplained infertility, tubal factor infertility, uterine factor infertility etc
  • IVF can be used in patients desiring preimplantation genetic testing before conception (such as those known to be carriers of certain genetic disorders), fertility preservation, gonadotoxic therapy, or freezing of eggs or embryos.

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Recently, Hindenburg Research, the US-based short seller, alleged in a report that Madhabi Puri Buch, the chairperson of stock market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), and her husband had a stake in offshore entities connected to the Adani group. 

• In such a scenario, SEBI board is supposed to address conflicts of interest. 

The market regulator SEBI said that it had “duly investigated” Hindenburg’s allegations against the Adani Group.

• The SEBI also said that its chairperson had made the required disclosures in “terms of holdings of securities and their transfers”, and that she had recused herself in matters involving “potential conflicts of interest”.

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About SEBI’s Code on Conflict of Interest

SEBI’s ‘Code on Conflict of Interest’ seeks to ensure that the board ‘conducts in a manner that does not compromise its ability to accomplish its mandate or undermine the public confidence’ in the body.

• About Conflict of Interest: According to the Code, it refers to “any personal interest or association of a board member, which is likely to influence the decision of the Board in a matter, as viewed by an independent third party”. 
  • It can constitute a number of different things, which are either barred altogether or need to be disclosed by the concerned board member.
• Comprises:
  • Certain Transactions in Shares: The Code says that a member must disclose their, and their family’s (spouse, dependent children below 18 years of age) holdings within 15 days of the assumption of Office, and annually update this disclosure within 15 days of the close of the financial year. 
    • Moreover, substantial transactions (greater than 5,000 shares or of monetary value of 1 lakh) need to be disclosed within 15 days of such a transaction. 
    • Also, members are not allowed to deal in shares based on “unpublished price sensitive information which he may have got access to”.
  • Outside Private Activities: SEBI board members are not allowed to hold any other office of profit, i.e. a position that brings or has the potential to bring to the person holding it some financial gain, advantage, or benefit. 
    • They are also not allowed to engage in any other professional activity, “which entails receipt of salary or professional fees”.
  • Acceptance of Gifts: Board members are not allowed to accept “any gift by whatever name called, to the extent possible, from a regulated entity”. 
    • If they do receive such a gift whose value exceeds Rs 1,000, they have to hand it over to the General Services Department of the SEBI, and are not allowed to keep it.
  • Miscellaneous Situations: Members are bound to disclose “any post, other employment or fiduciary position” which they hold or have held in the past five years, in connection with any regulated entity. 
    • It includes being a board member of a company, or being employed as a consultant by a company. 
    • They must disclose “any other significant relationship, including a professional, personal, financial or family relationship held in connection with a regulated entity” and “any honorary position, by whatever name called, in any organisation”.
• Procedure to Manage Conflict of Interest: SEBI board members are to “take all steps necessary to ensure that any conflict of interest does not affect any decision of the Board” and not to “exploit to his personal advantage, any personal or professional relationship with regulated entities or any employee of such entities”.
• Disclosures and Recusals: Disclosures have to be made “at the earliest possible opportunity”. If any member is unsure whether there is a conflict of interest or not, they “shall seek determination from the Chairman”. 
  • If the chairman is in doubt regarding their own conflict of interest, she has to “seek determination from the [entire] Board”.
• No Exception: If the chairman or the board determines that there is indeed a conflict of interest, the concerned member “shall refrain from dealing with the particular matter”. No Member shall hear or decide any matter where he/she has a conflict of interest and there is no scope for an exception.
• Confidentiality: As per the Code, the information as disclosed under this Code shall be kept confidential save in the following circumstances. These circumstances include:
  • Where there is a requirement for disclosure for the purposes of managing potential or actual conflicts;
  • Where there is a requirement for disclosure following the change of responsibilities of a Member;
  • Where there is a requirement for the purposes of disciplinary proceedings; or
  • Where there is any legal or regulatory obligation to disclose the information.
• Maintained by: The custody of all documents/records pertaining to board members’ disclosures is maintained by the secretary to the board. 
  • Members of the public can bring material evidence to this secretary in case they believe that “a Member has an interest in a particular matter”. The secretary is obligated to place the details of such a matter to the board.

About Conflict of Interest

Conflict of Interest is a situation where an individual’s personal interests or financial interests may influence their ability to make impartial decisions in their professional capacity.

• Refers: Conflict of Interest means “any interest which could significantly prejudice an individual’s objectivity in the decision making process, thereby creating an unfair competitive advantage for the individual or to the organisation which he/she represents”. 
  • It also encompasses situations where an individual, in contravention to the accepted norms and ethics, could exploit his/her obligatory duties for personal benefits.
• Actual Conflict of Interest: An actual conflict of interest arises when an individual’s personal interests directly conflict with their professional duties.
  • Examples:
    • A government official who holds shares in a company that is bidding for a government contract.
    • A doctor who receives a commission from a pharmaceutical company for prescribing their drugs.
    • A judge who owns shares in a company that is involved in a case before them.
    • A police officer who receives gifts or favors from a suspect they are investigating.
    • An auditor who is hired by a company to audit their financial statements, but also provides consulting services to the same company.
• Potential Conflict of Interest: A potential conflict of interest arises when an individual’s personal interests could potentially influence their professional duties.
  • Examples:
    • A financial advisor who receives a commission for recommending certain investment products to clients.
    • A journalist who owns shares in a company they are reporting on.
    • A lawyer who represents a client whose interests conflict with their own personal beliefs.
    • An academic researcher who receives funding from a company that produces a product they are researching.
    • A public official who has close personal or financial ties to a company that is seeking a government contract.

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Types of Conflict of Interest

Various types of Conflict of Interests are mentioned below:

• Financial Conflicts of Interest: It occurs when an individual or organisation stands to benefit financially from decisions or actions taken in their professional capacity. 
  • This conflict can arise when a financial advisor receives kickbacks from institutions for recommending or selling certain financial products.
• Relational Conflicts of Interest: It arises when personal relationships influence professional decisions. These can include familial ties, friendships, etc. 
  • Example: A manager might favour a friend or relative for a promotion, or a board member might advocate for a contract with a company owned by a family member.
• Professional Conflicts of Interest: It occurs when competing professional duties or allegiances interfere with impartiality. 
  • Example: A lawyer representing two clients with opposing interests faces a professional conflict. 
• Ideological Conflicts of Interest: It arises when personal beliefs or values clash with professional responsibilities. 
  • Example: A researcher with strong environmental views might struggle to remain objective while conducting a study funded by an oil and gas corporation.
• Time-Based Conflicts of Interest: It occurs when an individual’s commitments to multiple roles or projects lead to divided attention and compromised effectiveness. 
  • Example: An employee working for two companies simultaneously might not be able to fully dedicate themselves to either role.
• Organisational Conflicts of Interest: It occurs when an entity’s interests conflict with those of its stakeholders or the public. 
  • Example: A non-profit organisation that receives funding from a corporation might face pressure to align its activities with the interests of the donor, even if it conflicts with its mission.

Positive Aspects of Conflicts of Interest

In general, conflicts of interest are bad. However, there are reasons they arise, and these reasons may actually give a company good reason to have the conflict arise. 

• Bring Betterment: In some cases, individuals with conflicts of interest may bring valuable expertise and knowledge to a situation. 
  • Example: A board member with financial ties to a relevant industry might offer insights that enhance decision-making processes. If this expert is heavily tied to the community or industry, they are bound to have conflicts that come along with their expertise.
• Strengthen Collaborations: Conflicts of interest often arise from existing relationships and networks. Leveraging these connections can lead to beneficial collaborations and partnerships. 
  • Example: A business executive with personal relationships in the industry might facilitate strategic alliances that enhance organisational growth. For this reason, a company may pursue someone who intentionally would have conflicts of interest because of their large network or relationships.
• Innovation: Financial conflicts of interest, when managed correctly, can actually stimulate innovation and investment. 
  • Example: A researcher with financial interests in a startup may be more motivated to push the boundaries of innovation because they have more of a personal stake in the success of the company. Hence, financial ties can create a positive incentive (that also comes with some risk).

Challenges Associated with Conflicts of Interest

Following are the concerning challenges associated with the Conflict of Interest:

• Biased Decision-Making: Conflicts of Interest may prioritise personal interests or the interests of a particular thing over others when faced with a conflict of interest. 
  • This can lead to decisions that benefit themselves or their associates rather than the broader cause.
• Loss of Objectivity: Conflicts of interest can affect judgement and undermine objectivity which may find it challenging to make impartial decisions when personal interests are at stake.
• Favouritism: Persons with conflicts of interest may show favouritism towards individuals or organisations with whom they have a personal relationship or financial interest, leading to unfair treatment of others.
• Compromised Integrity: Engaging in decision-making while having a conflict of interest can compromise the integrity and erode trust.

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Management of Conflict of Interest

Effectively managing conflicts of interest is crucial to maintain trust and integrity. There is a need to follow six R’s, which are Recognize, Record, Reveal, Recuse or Restrict involvement in decision-making processes related to the conflict, and Review regularly. 

• Spotting Conflicts: First off, there is a need to identify any conflicts of interest. With disclosure, one can quickly assess and address any conflicts before they escalate.
• Grasping the Impact: Understanding the consequences of conflicts of interest is vital. They can lead to legal troubles, financial losses, and erosion of trust. .
• Maintaining Transparency: Transparency needs to be involved in all scenarios to counter the  abuse of power.  
• Focus on Objectivity: This skill helps to take impartial decisions and help establish integrity.  
• Behavioural Integrity: Ensuring high standards of behavioural integrity is must.  
• Need for Legislation: There is a need to provide clear guidance to address the conflict, ensuring fairness and transparency throughout.
  • There is a need for legislation to make non-disclosure of conflict of interest punishable. 
• Monitoring and Review: Regular review and assessment can help identify any new conflicts or changes that require attention.  Continuously monitor the situation to ensure that the conflict of interest is effectively managed. 
• Creating Awareness: There is a need to create awareness about conflict of interest and its potential impact, and the importance of avoiding such situations. 
• Training is Valuable: There is no substitute for education. In training sessions, there has an opportunity to become familiar with the terms, learn how to deal with conflicts and run through some scenarios.

Conclusion

In any situation, the individual’s personal interests could potentially influence their professional duties, creating a conflict of interest. It is important for professionals to be aware of these potential conflicts and take steps to manage them, such as recusing themselves from decision-making processes, disclosing potential conflicts to relevant parties, or seeking guidance from an ethics committee.

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