Oct 30 2024

South Africa amends guidelines to allow genetically modified children.

South Africa Paves the Way for Heritable Genome Editing

  • South Africa has amended its Ethics in Health Research Guidelines (May 2024) to allow research that could result in genetically modified children, positioning it as the first country to explicitly permit heritable human genome editing.
  • In November 2018, the media reported on a Chinese scientist who had created the world’s first gene-edited babies using CRISPR technology.
    • Heritable human genome editing remains a globally contentious issue, especially since then.

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Overview of Human Genome Editing

  • Definition: Genome Editing involves precise modifications of DNA sequences, offering targeted therapy with fewer side effects.
  • Types of Genome Editing: It includes two main types:
    • Somatic Genome Editing: Alters non-reproductive cells, with modifications that are not inheritable.
      • Considered less controversial and is allowed in countries like the U.S., U.K., and China for treating diseases like cancer and genetic disorders.
    • Germline Genome Editing: It is also called Heritable human genome editing.
      • This type of genome editing modifies reproductive cells, producing heritable changes that impact future generations and, theoretically, human evolution itself.
      • Globally prohibited due to ethical and safety concerns, as changes are heritable and could have unknown generational effects.
      • Examples: Nations like Germany, Canada, and Australia have statutory prohibitions on modifying human embryos’ germline cells.

Current Techniques Involved in Heritable Human Genome Editing (HHGE)

  • CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) – Cas9 : This is the most widely used tool for genome editing.
    • CRISPR-Cas9 functions as molecular “scissors” that can cut DNA at specific locations, allowing scientists to add, delete, or replace genes.
  • Prime Editing: Prime editing is a more precise form of CRISPR that reduces off-target effects and allows for more accurate corrections to the genome. 
    • It’s considered safer, particularly in germline editing, because it minimises unintended alterations.
  • Base Editing: Another variant of CRISPR, base editing allows researchers to change single DNA bases without causing double-strand breaks, enhancing precision in germline editing.
  • TALENs (Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nucleases): TALENs are another gene editing technique that can be programmed to target specific DNA sequences.
  • Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs): They are a class of engineered DNA-binding proteins that facilitate targeted genome editing by inducing double-strand breaks at specific locations in the DNA.

Applications of HHGE

  • Disease Prevention: HHGE could be used to prevent heritable genetic diseases like Huntington’s disease, cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs, and certain forms of muscular dystrophy by altering genes in embryos to remove disease-causing mutations.
  • Improving Reproductive Health Outcomes: HHGE might address infertility caused by genetic factors, making it easier for some individuals to conceive without relying on extensive assisted reproductive technologies. 
    • Example: Editing certain genes associated with recurrent miscarriages could help in reducing pregnancy loss.
  • Enhancing Immunity to Diseases: It could introduce genetic modifications that enhance immunity to certain infectious diseases, like HIV or influenza, potentially reducing susceptibility in future generations.
  • Delayed Onset of Age-Related Diseases: HHGE could delay or prevent genetic markers of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, potentially extending both lifespan and healthspan.
  • Adaptation to Environmental Stresses: HHGE could enhance genetic resilience to environmental stresses, such as high altitudes, extreme temperatures, or pollution exposure, enabling populations to thrive in changing or extreme climates.

Conventions Related to  Heritable Human Genome Editing

  • The Oviedo Convention: It is the only international legally binding instrument on the protection of human rights in the biomedical field.  
    • It draws on the principles established by the European Convention on Human Rights, in the field of biology and medicine.
    • It bans heritable human genome editing.
  • Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights: This declaration was adopted by UNESCO in 1997, to emphasise the importance of human dignity and the right to not be subjected to discrimination based on genetic information.
  •  WHO’s Human Genome Editing Framework: Published in 2021, offers guidelines for the ethical and safe use of genome editing technologies, including heritable human genome editing (HHGE).

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Challenges Associated with Heritable Human Genome Editing (HHGE)

  • Ethical and Moral Concerns:

Eugenics is the study or practice of improving the human species by selectively mating people with specific desirable hereditary traits.

  • Designer Babies: It opens the possibility of “designer babies” and raises questions about the essence of humanity and individual identity.
      • A designer baby is a baby genetically engineered in vitro for specially selected traits, which can vary from lowered disease-risk to gender selection.The possibility of selecting or enhancing traits (such as intelligence or physical characteristics) opens ethical debates about parental control, societal pressures, and the potential loss of genetic diversity.
    • Risk of Misuse: The possibility of misuse for creating genetic advantages (e.g., physical or cognitive enhancements) raises the risk of a new form of eugenics or even biological weapons if used with harmful intentions.
    • Intergenerational Consent: As changes are heritable, future generations cannot consent to modifications made to their genetic code, raising questions about autonomy and rights.
    • Equity and Social Justice: Access to HHGE might be limited to wealthy individuals or nations, exacerbating social inequalities and leading to a societal divide between genetically modified and non-modified individuals.
    • Multigenerational Effects: Modifications could have unforeseen consequences that only become apparent in future generations, creating potential health risks that are difficult to trace and address.
  • Technical and Safety Challenges:
    • Incomplete Knowledge of Genetic Interactions: The complexity of the human genome means that altering one gene might inadvertently impact other genes or biological systems in unpredictable ways.
    • Difficulty in Predicting Phenotypic Outcomes: While certain traits are linked to specific genes, the full phenotypic (observable) impact of modifying these genes is not always clear, leading to potential mismatches between the intended and actual results.
      • Example: Unintended edits can introduce new health problems or genetic disorders.
  • Regulatory and Legal Challenges
    • Lack of Global Consensus: Majority of European Union countries have ratified the Oviedo Convention.
    • Enforcement Difficulties: Even in places with clear legal prohibitions, enforcement of HHGE bans is complex, particularly as technologies become more accessible and potential applications expand.
    • Ethics of Scientific Responsibility: Scientific advancements often outpace regulatory frameworks, creating gaps in oversight that may lead to unregulated or unauthorised experiments, as seen in the “CRISPR babies” case.
  • Evolutionary Challenges:
    • Genetic Homogenisation: Reducing genetic diversity through HHGE could increase vulnerability to environmental changes or diseases that exploit genetic uniformity.
    • Disruption of Natural Selection: By intervening in human evolution, HHGE could reduce the adaptive capacity of the human population, potentially impacting long-term survival and evolution.

Case Study: South Africa’s Approach to Heritable Human Genome Editing (HHGE)

  • Amendment of Ethics Guidelines: South Africa has revised its Ethics in Health Research Guidelines to permit research that could lead to the birth of gene-edited babies.
  • Motivations for Embracing HHGE: Many South African ethicists support HHGE research due to recent advancements in treating sickle cell disease using genome editing technology, which shows promise in improving health outcomes for affected children.
  • Concerns About Scientific Tourism: Questions persist about the potential for scientific tourism, where researchers from other countries may relocate to South Africa to take advantage of its more permissive regulatory environment for HHGE research.

Indian Laws on Heritable Human Genome Editing (HHGE)

  • Current Status of HHGE
    • Prohibition of Germline Editing: In India, human germline editing and reproductive cloning are banned by the National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research.
    • Somatic Gene Editing: Permitted under specific conditions; regulated like other biomedical research.
  • Ethical Guidelines
    • ICMR Guidelines: Advocate for ethical practices in genetic research, addressing concerns about the potential misuse of HHGE.
    • National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research: envisages setting up of a National Apex Committee for Stem Cell Research and Therapy (NAC-SCRT) to monitor and oversee activities at national level and Institutional Committee for Stem Cell Research (IC-SCR) at institutional level.
  • Regulatory Framework
    • Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI): Proposed establishment to regulate genetic research, including HHGE.
    • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR): Draft guidelines on stem cell research and genetic interventions emphasise ethical considerations.

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Global Regulatory Landscape for Heritable Human Genome Editing (HHGE)

  • Summit on Human Genome Editing: The International Summit on Human Genome Editing  gathers scientists, ethicists, policymakers, and public representatives to explore the scientific, ethical, and social aspects of genome editing.
    • The committee urged a “responsible translational pathway” for clinical research, independent oversight, compelling medical need, long-term follow-up plans, and consideration of societal effects.
  • Over 70 countries currently prohibit heritable genome editing, often through a combination of guidelines, laws, and treaties. Some of them are: 
    • United States: Somatic Editing Allowed; bans germline editing via the Dickey-Wicker Amendment.
    • United Kingdom: Allows somatic editing research but prohibits germline editing for reproductive purposes.
    • China: Stricter regulations after the 2018 “CRISPR babies” case; bans germline editing for reproduction but allows somatic editing research.
    • Australia: Prohibits HHGE under the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act.
  • Global Initiatives: WHO and UNESCO recommend caution and suggest a moratorium on HHGE for reproduction; calls for an international regulatory body to harmonise standards.

Way Forward

  • Need for International Regulation and Diverse Approaches: A pluralistic, polycentric regulatory approach is necessary due to cultural differences, with stronger international frameworks to harmonise regulations.
  • Prioritise Therapeutic Applications: Focus on using HHGE for serious genetic diseases, with clear criteria for therapeutic versus non-therapeutic uses.
    • Defining “therapeutic” purposes could help ethically guide regulations.
  • Implement Ethical Oversight via establishment of International Gene-Editing Ethics Commission: Create independent ethics committees to review HHGE research proposals and ensure ethical compliance, develop standardised gene editing regulations etc.
  • Promote Global Health Equity: Ensure equitable access to HHGE technologies and share resources internationally, especially in underserved regions.
  • Carefully Regulated Germline Editing: Careful regulation might be preferable to total bans, allowing therapeutic germline editing for serious diseases.
  • Policy and Public Awareness: Policymakers and the public need ongoing dialogue to address the societal, ethical, and legal ramifications as the technology advances.
  • Advancing Safety Measures: Continued research into precision tools (like base and prime editing) is essential for improving HHGE’s safety.

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Conclusion

Heritable human genome editing (HHGE) can prevent genetic disorders but raises ethical issues of safety, consent, and equity. Effective regulation is essential to maximise its benefits while safeguarding human dignity and genetic diversity.

Greenhouse gas levels surged to a new record in 2023, rising by more than 10% in just two decades, according to a new report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)

  • India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are a climate action plan that aims to reduce emissions and adapt to the effects of climate change. 
  • India’s NDC targets include: 
    • Reducing emissions intensity: Reducing the emissions intensity of India’s GDP by 45% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels 
    • Renewable energy: Increasing the share of renewables in electricity generation to 50% by 2030 
    • Carbon sink creation: Creating an additional 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon sink through forests by 2030 
    • Net zero carbon emissions: Achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 
    • Green hydrogen: Producing five million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030 
    • Renewable energy capacity: Installing 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 

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Key Highlights of report

  • Current Reduction Plans:
    • The UN report states that existing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) would only reduce emissions by 2.6% from 2019 levels if fully implemented.
  • Needed Reduction:
    • To limit global warming to 1.5°C, the IPCC recommends a 43% reduction by 2030 and a 60% reduction by 2035.
  • UN Climate Change Statement:
    • Simon Steill, UN Climate Change executive, emphasized the need for stronger action in upcoming NDC updates to meet climate goals.
  • GHG Surge in 2023:
    • WMO reports record-high GHG levels in 2023, with CO2 concentration reaching 420 ppm, an increase of 2.3 ppm from 2022.
  • Historical CO2 Context:
    • Current CO2 levels are similar to those 3-5 million years ago, when temperatures were 2-3°C higher and sea levels were 10-20 meters above current levels.
  • Radiative Forcing Increase (1990-2023):
    • Warming effects from long-lived GHGs increased by 51.5%, with CO2 responsible for 81% of this rise (NOAA data).
  • Climate Feedback Concerns
    • Potential Vicious Cycle:
      • WMO warns that warming could turn natural ecosystems into GHG sources, as wildfires release more carbon and oceans absorb less CO2.
    • Long-term Impact of CO2:
      • CO2’s long atmospheric lifespan means temperature levels will remain elevated for decades, even with emission reductions.
  • Factors Driving Rising GHG Levels
    • Human Activities:
      • High CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and reduced forest carbon absorption are major contributors to rising GHG levels.
    • Natural Causes:
      • El Niño-induced warmer temperatures, dry vegetation, and wildfires have increased GHG emissions.
    • Methane Surge (2020-2022):
      • Methane levels saw their largest three-year rise, primarily due to increased emissions from natural wetlands during La Niña conditions.
  • India’s Climate Commitments
    • Updated NDCs (August 2022):
      • India aims to reduce emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% from 2005 levels and ensure 50% of electricity generation capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
    • Global Standing:
      • Despite a 6.1% rise in emissions in 2023, India’s historical contribution to global emissions remains at 3%.

About Global Warming Potential (GWP) 

  • Measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas (GHG) traps in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide (CO2).
  • GWP is used to compare the effectiveness of different GHGs in causing global warming

Greenhouse gas

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About the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

  • The WMO is an intergovernmental organization with 193 member states and territories. 
  • India is one of the Member States of the WMO.
  • Origin: WMO originated from the International Meteorological Organization, the roots of which were planted at the 1873 Vienna International Meteorological Congress.
  • Establishment: WMO was established by ratifying the WMO Convention on 23rd March 1950.
  • Specialized Agency: It became the specialized agency of the United Nations for Meteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences.
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) recently released its 2024 Review of Maritime Transport.

About Review of Maritime Transport report 2024

  • Objective: Analyzing  the current state and future of the global maritime industry. 
  • It also emphasizes the need for decarbonization, digital transformation, and resilience against geopolitical and climate-related risks.

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What’s a Choke Point?

  • These points are defined as the strategic and narrow passages. 
    • It establishes a connection between two larger areas with each other. 
  • In terms of maritime chokepoints, these are canals or straits (The Panama Canal, Suez Canal, Strait of Malacca) that play a significant role in international trade movement due to their optimal location. 
    • These regions see high volumes of traffic due to strategic location. 
      • The Panama Canal: It connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in Central America. 
      • Suez Canal: This waterway connects  the Mediterranean and Red Seas. 
      • Strait of Malacca: This chokepoint connects  China, India, and Southeast Asia. 
        • It is the shortest way between  China, India, and Southeast Asia. 

Five key insights of the report

  • Vulnerabilities of Key Maritime Chokepoints

    • Insight: Major shipping chokepoints, such as the Suez Canal, Panama Canal, and the Red Sea, are increasingly at risk from climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and regional instability.
    • Implications: With disruptions like climate-induced low water levels in the Panama Canal and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, shipping companies face longer routes, higher costs, and increased emissions.
    • UNCTAD Recommendations: Strengthen international cooperation to secure these routes through enhanced infrastructure, early-warning systems, and regional partnerships to prevent disruptions in global supply chains.
  • Maritime Trade Recovery Faces Ongoing Risks

    • Insight: Global maritime trade grew by 2.4% in 2023 after a decline in 2022, but future growth remains uncertain due to persistent geopolitical and climate risks.
    • Implications: While bulk commodity trade stabilized, container trade grew by just 0.3%. Climate disruptions and geopolitical conflicts, such as in Ukraine, threaten recovery efforts and global supply chains.
    • UNCTAD Recommendations: Invest in resilient infrastructure and diversify trade routes to minimize dependency on vulnerable chokepoints. Promoting regional trade can help balance global supply chains.
  • Rising Freight Costs Impact Inflation and Growth

    • Insight: Chokepoint disruptions and higher operational costs have led to increased freight rates, impacting inflation and economic growth, especially for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
    • Implications: Rising freight rates lead to higher consumer prices and economic strain on vulnerable economies that rely heavily on maritime imports.
    • UNCTAD Recommendations: Strengthen freight market monitoring to address rising costs and support SIDS and LDCs with more resilient supply chains to stabilize their economies and ensure food security.
  • Urgent Need for Low-Carbon Shipping

    • Insight: The shift to low-carbon shipping is slow, with high costs and fuel technology uncertainties hindering fleet renewal.
    • Implications: Shipping accounts for 3% of global emissions, yet only 50% of new ships are equipped for alternative fuels. Older vessels remain active, delaying decarbonization efforts.
    • UNCTAD Recommendations: Boost investment in clean fuel technologies and fleet renewal through incentives and clear regulatory frameworks. Collaboration between governments and industry is crucial to accelerating decarbonization and meeting climate targets.

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  • Improving Port Performance and Trade Facilitation

    • Insight: Enhancing port operations and trade facilitation is critical to the resilience and efficiency of global maritime trade.
    • Implications: Ports are under pressure from climate risks and increasing cargo volumes.
      • Advanced technologies like blockchain and AI can streamline operations, reduce congestion, and support efficient cargo tracking.
    • UNCTAD Recommendations: Prioritize digital innovation and infrastructure upgrades to create “smart ports” capable of handling complex global shipping needs. 
      • Developing climate-proof port infrastructure and fostering public-private partnerships are essential for long-term resilience.

Role of Maritime Transport in Indian Economy

Maritime transport is very significant to India’s economic growth, It contributes significantly to trade, employment, and infrastructure development.

  • Contribution to Trade
    • Trade Volume and Value: Maritime transport handles around 95% of India’s trade by volume and 70% by value.
    • Ports: India has 12 major ports and approximately 200 non-major ports, facilitating both domestic and international trade.
  • Challenges and Opportunities
    • Challenges: Issues like geopolitical tensions, climate change, and supply chain disruptions create challenges for maritime transport.
    • Opportunities: Investments in sustainable infrastructure, decarbonization, and stronger international cooperation could enhance the sector’s resilience and efficiency.

At the invitation of India’s Prime Minister, President  of Spain Mr. Pedro Sanchez, visited India recently.

Key Highlights of the India-Spain Joint Statement

  • Defense Partnership: PM Modi and President Sanchez jointly inaugurated a C-295 aircraft assembly line in Vadodara, Gujarat, promoting India’s “Make in India” initiative.
  • Economic and Commercial Cooperation: Both leaders agreed to strengthen ties through initiatives such as a “Fast Track Mechanism” and the ‘India-Spain CEOs Forum’.
  • India-Spain Year of Culture, Tourism, and AI (2026): The leaders designated 2026 as a special year to promote cultural exchange, tourism, and collaboration in artificial intelligence.
  • Global and Regional Cooperation: The leaders emphasized multilateralism, supporting each other’s UNSC candidatures, and collaborating on climate action and renewable energy. 
  • Commitment to EU-India Relations: India and Spain expressed their support for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Project (IMEEC).

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India-Spain Relations

  • Enhanced Bilateral Relations: President Pedro Sanchez’s visit to India revitalized the India-Spain relationship, strengthening ties in areas such as political, economic, cultural, and security cooperation
  • Diplomatic Ties: India and Spain established diplomatic relations in 1956.
  • Economic Cooperation: 
    • Largest trading partner: Spain is India’s 6th largest trading partner within the European Union.
    • Trade: Total trade in 2023 was US$ 8.25 billion, marking a 4.2% increase from the previous year.
    • Foreign Direct Investment:India ranks among Spain’s top 30 global investors and top 5 from Asia.
    • India-Spain Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation (JCEC): Established in 1972; has met 12 times, with the latest meeting in April 2023 in New Delhi.
    • India-Spain CEOs Forum: Founded in 2015; the first formal meeting took place in May 2017 in Madrid.
  • Strategic Significance
    • Counter-Terrorism: Both countries actively collaborate on counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, recognizing shared concerns over global terrorism.
    • Defense: Spain supports India’s defense modernization, providing aerospace and naval technology expertise.
  • Sustainable Development and Climate Action
    • Commitment  to the Paris Agreement: India and Spain are committed to the Paris Agreement and actively support climate change and sustainable development goals.
    • International Solar Alliance (ISA): Spain’s ISA membership aligns with India’s focus on promoting solar energy and sustainability.
  • Multilateral Cooperation
    • United Nations: Joint efforts on global peace, sustainable development, and humanitarian aid.
    • G20: Both countries address global economic challenges, trade reforms, and climate action.
  • Indian Diaspora in Spain
    • Population: Approximately 55,000 Indians resided in Spain as of 2023. They Contribute actively to sectors like hospitality, retail, IT, and healthcare.

The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) report reveals India’s heavy reliance on imports for critical minerals. 

About IEEFA

  • The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) is a non-profit organization that studies energy markets, trends, and policies. 
  • IEEFA’s mission is to accelerate the transition to a sustainable, profitable, and diverse energy economy

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Key Highlights of the report

  • Import Dependency: India remains highly reliant on imports for critical minerals, especially lithium, cobalt, and nickel, with a full (100%) dependency on foreign supplies for these key resources.
  • Import Strategy & Trade Risks: The report emphasizes that India needs a strategic import plan to mitigate trade risks and maintain international partnerships for essential mineral security.
  • Key Minerals Assessed: IEEFA examined India’s status in importing and securing five critical minerals—cobalt, copper, graphite, lithium, and nickel—highlighting the country’s 100% reliance on imports for several of these, primarily from limited global sources.

Critical Mineral Mission

  • The Union Finance Minister of India, announced the creation of Critical Mineral Mission for sourcing mineral resources beneficial to the nation’s economy.
  • Mission Objectives: Emphasise the development of the new capacities, the recycling of critical minerals and incentivising the acquisition of overseas assets.
  • Legal Framework: The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 was amended in 2023 to remove six minerals from the atomic list and open it for exploration for private sectors.

Recommendations for India

  • Diversification of sources:  The report advocates for identifying new resources globally, expediting domestic production, and forging partnerships with mineral-rich countries like Australia, Chile, Ghana, and South Africa to diversify supply.
  • Graphite Imports: India heavily relies on China for synthetic and natural graphite and could consider partnerships with top-producing nations like Mozambique, Madagascar, Brazil, and Tanzania, particularly under Global South cooperation.
  • Copper and Nickel Sourcing: With India’s imports of copper cathodes and nickel sulfates concentrated from Japan and Belgium, diversifying suppliers, such as considering the U.S. (a major copper producer), may enhance supply stability.
  • Lithium & Nickel Oxides: Current imports are less concentrated but largely sourced from Russia and China, posing potential trade risks.
  • Domestic Refining & Processing: Increasing domestic refining capacity, especially for lithium, could enable India’s integration into the global supply chain. 
    • This includes government-backed initiatives like auctions for critical mineral mining blocks and support for refining technology.

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About Critical Minerals in India

  • Definition of Critical Minerals: These minerals are essential for national security and economic stability and are used across industries like electronics, defense, energy, and healthcare, supporting India’s industrial growth and technological advancements.
  • China’s Dominance: China is the leading global supplier for six of the twelve minerals identified as crucial for India by 2030.

A report by the Soil Association Exchange highlights that farms using a mixed enterprise system with both arable crops and livestock can increase soil organic carbon (SOC) by one-third compared to farms growing crops alone.

Key Research Findings

  • Data was collected from 685 UK farms over a two-year period (2022-2024), covering 238,000 hectares.
  • The study found that while livestock is a notable source of methane emissions, but it can significantly enhance soil carbon storage.
  • Average soil organic matter across surveyed farms: 5.74%
  • Average SOC across surveyed farms: 3.34%
    • Arable-only farms (including potatoes): 2.54% SOC
    • Mixed farms with cows and sheep: 3.47% SOC
    • Farms with only cows and sheep: 4.92% SOC
  • Additional Benefits of Mixed Enterprise Farms: Greater plant diversity and improved biodiversity were found on mixed farms compared to those solely for arable cropping.
  • The Study assessed six key areas:
    • Soil health
    • Carbon storage
    • Biodiversity
    • Animal welfare
    • Water quality
    • Community and societal impact

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About Soil Organic Carbon (SOC)

  • SOC is the measurable component of soil organic matter (SOM) and specifically refers to the carbon content within organic compounds in the soil.
  • Organic matter generally constitutes 2-10% of a soil’s mass, crucially affecting the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological functions.

Difference Between SOC and SOM

  • SOC is strictly the carbon fraction of SOM, making it easier to measure in laboratory settings.
  • SOM includes carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and other elements (like nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur), and it exists in both “living” (roots, fauna, microbes) and “dead” forms (decayed organic material).
  • LivestockSOM consists of:
    • Dissolved Organic Matter
    • Particulate Organic Matter
    • Humus
    • Resistant Organic Matter
  • These fractions vary in size, stability, and how quickly they decompose, affecting their longevity and impact on soil health.

Carbon Sequestration

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere to reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere and limit climate change. 

There are two main types of carbon sequestration:

  • Biological: A natural process that occurs as part of the carbon cycle, where plants absorb CO2 from the air and store it in their biomass. 
  • Humans can enhance this process through land use changes and agricultural practices, such as carbon farming.
  • Geological: An artificial process that involves capturing CO2 from human activities and storing it underground or under the sea bed. 
    • This process is also known as carbon capture and storage.

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Soil Organic Carbon and Carbon Sequestration

  • SOC is viewed as a potential method for climate change mitigation by sequestering carbon and lowering atmospheric CO₂.
  • For lasting impact, SOC must be stored in stable fractions of SOM

Recently the Union Cabinet has decided to extend Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income.

Key Features of the Expanded Coverage

  • Eligibility: All senior citizens aged 70 and above are eligible, benefiting approximately six crore elderly individuals from 4.5 crore families.
    • Coverage includes an insurance amount of ₹5 lakh per family annually for hospitalisation.
  • Distinct Benefits for Existing Beneficiaries: Seniors from families already enrolled in AB PM-JAY will receive an exclusive top-up of ₹5 lakh per year, separate from the family coverage for members under 70.
    • Those already covered by other public health insurance schemes like CGHS, ECHS, or CAPF have the choice to remain with their current plans or switch to AB PM-JAY.
  • Inclusivity: The scheme is inclusive of senior citizens with private insurance or Employees’ State Insurance, allowing them to access AB PM-JAY benefits as well.

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About Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana: Launched in 2018 as the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, it initially targeted vulnerable populations covering 55 crore individuals from 12.34 crore families.

  • The scheme is being implemented in 33 states and Union territories currently except for Delhi, Odisha, and West Bengal.
  • The scheme, thus far, has facilitated 7.37 crore hospital admissions and benefited recipients by more than ₹1 lakh crore.
  • Continuous Expansion: In January 2022, the beneficiary base was increased to 12 crore families due to population growth.
    • ASHA, Anganwadi Workers, and Helpers (AWWs/AWHs) and their families were added to the beneficiary pool, broadening the scheme’s outreach.
  • Implications: This initiative reflects a shift toward universal health coverage for India’s elderly, aiming to address healthcare needs as the population ages.
    • By prioritising senior citizens, the government is addressing a demographic often vulnerable to high medical costs and limited insurance access, with the hope of promoting affordable, quality healthcare for all.

UNRWA: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees

Context: Israel’s parliament recently passed two Bills to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and the Palestinian territories.

About UNRWA

  • Genesis: It was founded in 1949 to provide aid to about 700,000 Palestinians who were forced to leave their homes during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
  • Region of Operation: The UN agency operates in Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank, as well as Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan where the refugees took shelter after their displacement. 
  • Provision of Services: UNRWA plays a pivotal role in supporting the livelihoods of the residents of Gaza who have been forced into a humanitarian crisis following the outbreak of conflict.
    • The agency serves as the primary provider of essential provisions such as food, water, and shelter to the enclave’s civilians. 
  • Funding: UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions by donor states like the US. 
    • It also gets a limited subsidy from the UN, which is used only for administrative costs.

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Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile application

Context: Union Home Minister recently launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile application to “integrate technology with governance”.

About CRS

  • Definition: The Civil Registration System (CRS) is the recording of vital events, specifically births, deaths, and stillbirths.
  • Constitutional Basis: Falls under the Concurrent List of the Constitution of India.
  • Purpose: Generates vital statistics that aid in formulating evidence-based policies across multiple sectors.

Key Features of the CRS Application

  • Allows citizens to register births and deaths anytime and from anywhere in their State’s official language.
  • Aims to significantly reduce registration time.

Legislative Framework

  • Main Legislation: Governed by the Registration of Births and Deaths (RBD) Act, 1969, amended in 2023.
  • Implementation: The Act was enforced in most States/UTs from April 1, 1970, promoting uniformity in birth and death registration.
  • Recent Amendment: The RBD (Amendment) Act, 2023 came into effect on October 1, 2023.

Registration Process

  • Mandatory Registration: Births, stillbirths, and deaths must be registered at the location of the event.
  • Reporting Period: Normal reporting period is 21 days from the occurrence. Late registration is allowed under provisions of Section 13 of the RBD Act.
  • Registration Functionaries: Registrar General of India (RGI):
    • Coordinates registration activities at the national level.
    • Allows State Governments to develop efficient systems of registration.
  • State Authorities:
    • Chief Registrar: Chief executive authority for implementing the Act in the State.
    • District Registrar: Executes RBD Act and Rules at the district level.
    • Registrars: Responsible for registering events and issuing birth and death certificates.

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Passenger Terminal & a Cargo Gate at Petrapole Land Port

Context: Union Home Minister has inaugurated the newly constructed passenger terminal building and a cargo gate named ‘Maitri Dwar’ at the Land Port in Petrapole, on the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal.

About Petrapole Land Port

  • Location: Petrapole, Uttar 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, on the India-Bangladesh border.
  • Largest Land Port in South Asia: Serves as a vital gateway for trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh.
  • Passenger Terminal Features:
    • Aims to facilitate international trade and crossings for citizens of both countries.
    • Capacity to handle 20,000 passengers per day.
    • Houses immigration, customs, and security services under one roof.
  • Maitri Dwar Cargo Gate: 
    • The ‘Maitri Dwar’ cargo gate is a joint facility agreed upon by both India and Bangladesh 

Land Port Authority of India (LPAI)

  • Constitution: Established under the Land Ports Authority Act, 2010.
  • Purpose: Development and management of facilities for cross-border movement of passengers and goods at designated points along international borders.
  • Mandate:
    • Responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing border infrastructure.
    • Manages several Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) across India’s borders.
  • Composition:
    • Chairperson and Members are appointed by the Central Government.
    • Tenure: Five years or until the age of 60, whichever comes first.
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
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Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
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