Context:

• In a year marked by El Niño conditions, the southwest monsoon in India remained subdued, resulting in “below-average” cumulative rainfall, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD) estimates.

Spatial Distribution of Rainfall:

• Northwest India recorded 593 mm of rainfall compared to a long-period average of 587.6 mm. 
• Central India, where agriculture predominantly relies on monsoon rains, recorded 981.7 mm against a normal of 978 mm. 
• The South Peninsula experienced an eight percent deficit.
• Rainfall across the country as a whole stood at 91 percent of LPA in June, 113 percent in July, 64 percent in August, and 113 percent in September.
• The IMD reported that east and northeast India recorded 1,115 mm of rainfall against a normal of 1,367.3 mm, which translates to an 18 percent deficit.

Meteorological Subdivisions:

• Out of the 36 meteorological subdivisions, three (constituting 9 percent of the total area) received excess rainfall, 26 received normal rainfall (covering 73 percent of the total area), and seven received deficient rainfall. 
• The seven subdivisions with deficient rainfall are:
  • Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, East UP, South Interior Karnataka, and Kerala.

Normal Rainfall:

• Rainfall activity ranging between 96 percent and 104 percent of the LPA is defined as normal.
• The 2023 monsoon season concluded with 94.4 percent cumulative rainfall, which is “near normal”.
• Normal rainfall is critical for India’s agricultural landscape, with 52 percent of the net cultivated area relying on it. 
• According to the weather department, some “positive factors” mitigated some of the deficiency caused by El Niño conditions this year, which ended up providing “near normal” precipitation. 
  • These factors included the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)

News Source: Livemint

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Context:

• The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) recently came into effect in Delhi to deal with pollution.

About Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):

• GRAP is a set of emergency measures implemented in the Delhi-NCR region to prevent further deterioration of air quality once it reaches specific threshold levels. 
• GRAP was approved by the Supreme Court in 2016 and officially notified in 2017. 

Key features of GRAP:

• Incremental Nature: GRAP is designed to be incremental, meaning as air quality worsens, measures from successive stages are triggered.
• Stage 1 (Poor AQI – 201 to 300)
• Stage 2 (Very Poor AQI – 301 to 400)
• Stage 3 (Severe AQI – 401 to 450)
• Stage 4 (Severe + AQI – More than 450)

Revised GRAP to come into force from 1st October 2023, it includes:

• ‘Poor’ Air Quality: Enforcement of the National Green Tribunal or Supreme Court’s order on overaged diesel and petrol vehicles as per existing statutes.
• ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality: Intensification of remedial measures for the predominant sectors contributing to adverse air quality in each of the hotspots.
• ‘Severe’ Air Quality: Strict restrictions on plying of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) in Delhi and in the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar will be imposed by the NCR State governments.
• Severe +’ Air Quality:  The NCR State governments might decide to discontinue physical classes for classes sixth to ninth and class 11th, and conduct lessons in an online mode.

News Source: Live Mint

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Context:

• Delegates at a United Nations (UN) Conference in Bonn adopted a new Global Framework on Chemical to reduce environmental risks from chemicals and waste.

More about the news: Global Framework on Chemical a new initiative 

• Countries committed to phase out the most harmful chemicals at the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management or ICCM5.
• The ICCM5 was organized by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and hosted by the government of Germany at the World Conference Center Bonn (WCCB).

Global Framework on Chemicals:

• Aim of Global Framework on Chemical: It aims to phase out lethal agricultural pesticides by 2035.
• Concrete Targets of Global Framework on Chemical: The Framework sets targets and guidelines across the lifecycle of chemicals.
  • It is based around 28 targets, designed to improve responsible management of chemicals and waste. 
• Commitment by National governments: It was committed to formulate policies and regulations in order to reduce chemical pollution by 2030 as well as promoting safer alternatives. 
• Pledge by Industries: To manage chemicals in order to reduce pollution and its adverse impacts.
• Bonn Declaration & Global Framework on Chemical: The declaration was adopted at the summit.
  • The Declaration aims to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals, and phase out the most harmful ones and enhance the safe management of such chemicals.
  • The approach aims to not only safeguard health and the environment but also reduce waste and enhance recycling efforts.
• Dedicated trust fund: It will be set up and managed by the United Nations Environment Programme. 
  • Into this fund, governments, the private sector, non-governmental organizations and foundations can add to an initial EUR 20 million pledged by Germany.

News Source: DTE

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Context:

• The sanitary pads, with their plastic content, don’t biodegrade naturally, resulting in a staggering 1,13,000 tons of Menstrual Waste annually.

More about the news: 

• Availability: Primary issue contributing to this Menstrual Waste problem is the limited availability of incinerators.
• Maintenance of Menstrual Waste: Even when incinerators are present, they lack proper maintenance and fail to efficiently handle the plastic in the pads, leading to health concerns due to emitted fumes.
• Faulty Disposal:  In rural India, improper disposal methods, such as discarding in local water bodies, burning, or flushing, persist despite their adverse environmental and health effects.

What is menstrual waste?

• Menstrual waste refers to blood, bodily tissues, and used menstrual absorbents, including cloth, disposable sanitary napkins and other materials used to capture or absorb blood during menstruation.

Addressing Menstrual Waste:

• Use of Technology to reduce Menstrual Waste: Experts recommend investments in technology to develop biodegradable products and establish effective waste management systems. 
  • Startups like PadCare Labs have creatively found ways to recycle used sanitary pads into plastic and wood pulp for various applications. 
  • Manufacturers are encouraged to support waste management systems.
• Draft Policy to tackel Menstrual Waste: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare needs to propose a draft policy emphasizing biodegradable products and the implementation of solid waste management rules. 
• Segregation: On an individual level, proper segregation of sanitary waste is crucial. 
  • Initiatives like Pune’s Red Dot campaign highlight the importance of collective action and awareness among waste pickers. 
• Eco-friendly and reusable alternatives : Cloth pads, menstrual cups, and period panties are available, though their adoption faces challenges.

News Source: Economic Times

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Context: 

• This article is based on a news “What House panel report on ASI says about ‘rationalizing’ protected monuments, and rules governing them” which was published in Indian Express. A parliamentary committee, led by Rajya Sabha MP V Vijaisai Reddy, has raised concerns about the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and its management of centrally protected monuments (CPMs).

More on News: Committee Recommendations for Archaeological Survey of India’s Cultural Heritage Enhancement

• The committee consists of MPs from various political parties.Recommendations have been made by the committee regarding the Archaeological Survey of India’s administration, security, restoration efforts, and overall maintenance of heritage sites.
• These recommendations are aimed at addressing the issues surrounding the functioning of Archaeological Survey of India in relation to CPMs in India.

Challenges and Concerns in Preserving India’s Heritage Monuments by Archaeological Survey of India

• Inclusion of Minor Monuments: The list of centrally protected monuments (CPMs) comprises a significant number of minor monuments lacking national significance, with an estimated 25% of the current 3,691 monuments categorized as such.
  • This includes the protection of 75 graves of colonial-era soldiers or officials that lack notable historical importance.
  • Some monuments, like a small brick wall enclosure in Kumta, Karnataka, containing two graves, receive the same level of protection despite their lack of architectural value and historical significance.
• Restrictions around Monuments: The 100-meter prohibited area and 300-meter regulated area around Archaeological Survey of India-protected monuments lead to public inconvenience and hostility in affected areas.
  • This provision was introduced in 2010 through an amendment in the AMASR Act, 1958, and prohibits and regulates all activities like mining and construction.
• Loss of Monuments: The CAG declared 92 centrally protected monuments (CPMs) as “missing,” with only 42 of them located by the Archaeological Survey of India.
  • Once lost, these monuments cannot be recovered, which poses a significant threat to India’s historical heritage.
• Shortage of Resources and Fund Crunch:
  • The Archaeological Survey of India faces a shortage of human resources, particularly in conservation work.
  • The panel said India spends “a little amount” on the protection and upkeep of monuments. “It amounts to Rs 11 lakh per monument of national importance (Rs 428 crore for 3693 monuments in 2019-20).
• Restoration Activities:
  • Restoration work is often undertaken without considering the original design and beauty of the monument, resulting in incongruities with the original structure.
  • Indigenous systems and traditional practices are not given the attention they deserve in restoration efforts.
• Ineffective Monument Mitras Engagement: Out of 24 agreements signed with Monument Mitras under the Adopt a Heritage scheme, only four have witnessed effective engagement.
  • Concerns are raised about the lack of prior experience among private firms involved in restoration and conservation projects.
• Monument Encroachments: Approximately 14.4% of Archaeological Survey of India’s total centrally protected monuments (CPMs) have been encroached upon.
  • Only encroachments from nine monuments have been removed since 2015.
• Other Challenges with Monuments: 
• • Lack of Master Plan: Non-world heritage sites lack proper master plans.
    • Haphazard growth around sites diminishes their appeal.
  • Pollution: Environmental pollution damages heritage properties.
    • Taj Mahal affected by Sulphur dioxide from oil refinery and local furnaces.Restrictions around Monuments: The 100-meter prohibited area and 300-meter regulated area around Archaeological Survey of India-protected monuments lead to public inconvenience and hostility in affected areas.
      • This provision was introduced in 2010 through an amendment in the AMASR Act, 1958, and prohibits and regulates all activities like mining and construction.
    • Loss of Monuments: The CAG declared 92 centrally protected monuments (CPMs) as “missing,” with only 42 of them located by the Archaeological Survey of India.
      • Once lost, these monuments cannot be recovered, which poses a significant threat to India’s historical heritage.

Also read: Parliamentary Panel Report on ASI

Recommendations: Enhancing the Role of Archaeological Survey of India

• Pruning the List of Protected Monuments:
  • Rationalization and Categorization: The committee Suggests rationalizing and categorizing the list of Archaeological Survey of India-protected monuments based on national significance, unique architectural value, and specific heritage content.
  • Consideration of Removal: Recommends considering the removal of certain monuments, such as kosminars (Mughal milestones), that obstruct road-widening efforts.
  • Emphasis on Indian Ethos: Recommends including monuments that “reflect Indian ethos” in the protected list, emphasizing indigenous heritage and cultural significance.
• Reassess Restricted Zones: Reevaluate and potentially revise the restricted zones, taking into account monument significance, to reduce public inconvenience and mitigate hostility while maintaining monument preservation.
• Enhancing Archaeological Survey of India’s Core Mandate: The committee highlights the importance of preservation as a core mandate of the Archaeological Survey of India.
  • The Archaeological Survey of India should develop preservation plans for all its work, especially before excavations. 
  • These plans should include strategies for documenting findings, conserving artifacts, and restoring structures with minimal impact on the site’s integrity.
  • Emphasizes the use of advanced technologies like LiDAR, ground-penetrating radar, and 3D scanning to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of excavations.
• Recommendations for Bifurcation:
  • Core Mandate for Archaeological Survey of India: Archaeological Survey of India should focus on core mandates, including exploration, excavation, and conservation aspects.
  • Revenue Management by IHDC: The India Heritage Development Corporation (IHDC) can handle revenue-related activities, such as ticket collection, auctions, licensing, cafeteria operations, souvenir sales, and sound and light systems, to enhance Archaeological Survey of India’s efficiency.
• Addressing Missing Monuments:
  • Conduct a survey of all remaining monuments to ensure their physical existence and safety.
  • Implement regular physical surveys for all CPMs to monitor their condition and security.
  • Maintain digital log books containing textual and photographic/video records of the monument’s physical state and location coordinates. 
• Sustainability and Environmental Impact: 
  • There is a need to integrate sustainable practices in conservation and restoration projects, including the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient techniques, while considering long-term environmental impacts.
• Experienced Monument Mitras: The committee recommends hiring only experienced Monument Mitras to ensure the quality of restoration and conservation work.

Conclusion 

• The Parliamentary Panel’s report on the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) highlights several challenges in preserving India’s heritage monuments. It recommends rationalizing the list of protected monuments, addressing resource shortages, enhancing conservation efforts, and improving the management of monument encroachments. The report emphasizes the need for a more strategic and sustainable approach to heritage preservation.

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Context:

• This article is based on a news “Nobel Prize in Medicine 2023: Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman for enabling development of mRNA vaccines” which was published in the Mint. The 2023 Nobel Prize in Medicine 2023 has been awarded to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman for their discoveries concerning nucleoside base modifications.

Nobel Prize in Medicine 2023

• The discoveries by the two Nobel Laureates were critical for developing effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 during the pandemic that began in early 2020. 

mRNA vaccines: A promising idea

• In our cells, genetic information encoded in DNA is transferred to messenger RNA (mRNA), which is used as a template for protein production. 
• RNA contains four bases, abbreviated A, U, G, and C, corresponding to A, T, G, and C in DNA, the letters of the genetic code(Refer image).
• During the 1980s, efficient methods for producing mRNA without cell culture ( in a lab ) were introduced, called in vitro transcription. 

• In vitro transcribed mRNA was considered unstable and challenging to deliver, requiring developing sophisticated carrier lipid systems to encapsulate the mRNA. Moreover, in vitro-produced mRNA gave rise to inflammatory reactions. 
• The duo showed that converting the RNA base uridine to pseudouridine in mRNA produced in vitro could reduce the inflammatory response.
• In subsequent years, mRNA vaccines were developed against Zika virus and MERS-CoV, but the technology was fully exploited only in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic.
• The mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines, with their nucleoside bases modified, were developed at record speed. 

Nucleoside base Modification:

• A nucleoside-modified messenger RNA (modRNA) is a synthetic messenger RNA (mRNA) in which some nucleosides are replaced by other naturally modified nucleosides or synthetic nucleosides (For Example uridine to pseudouridine). 
• modRNA (Modified RNA) is used to induce the production of a desired protein in certain cells. An important application is the development of mRNA vaccines, of which the first authorized were COVID-19 vaccines.
• Using modified nucleosides is a critical approach to mitigate the intrinsic immuno-response of exogenous mRNA and increase its translation for mRNA therapeutic applications. However, for vaccine applications, the intrinsic immunostimulatory nature of unmodified mRNA could help induce productive immunity. 
• Additionally, the ionizable lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) used to deliver mRNA vaccines can possess immunostimulatory properties that may influence the impact of nucleoside modification.

What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines?

mRNA and Other Vaccines

• All vaccines aim to induce an immune response by introducing the pathogen in advance. The critical difference is that most vaccine platforms inject either the virus (killed or inactivated) or a part of it. (Refer Image).
• In contrast, an mRNA vaccine delivers only the instructions, enabling the body to create the protein.
• Once the protein is synthesized, the immune system responds against it. The objective is for the body to recognize the virus’s protein if it infects the person in the future, and neutralize it. 

• In COVID-19 vaccines, the synthesized protein is Sars-CoV-2’s spike, responsible for latching on to and infecting a cell.
• DNA vaccines: which are often referred to as  third-generation vaccines, use engineered DNA to induce an immunologic response in the host against bacteria, parasites, viruses, and potentially cancer.
• The basic working principle behind any DNA vaccine involves using a DNA plasmid that encodes for a protein originating from the pathogen in which the vaccine will be targeted.

Also read: ICMR Study On Covid

Advantages and disadvantages of mRNA vaccines

Conclusion

Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman, who together identified a chemical tweak to messenger RNA, thus both were awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine for the year 2023. The advantages of the mRNA vaccine approach are numerous and, in addition to being used as a vaccine, mRNA can also be used as a protein supplement or replacement therapy to treat other diseases, driving the necessary research to overcome the current obstacles and limitations with the ultimate goal of developing an ideal form of medicine.

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