Dec 21 2024

A high-level committee of experts, headed by former chairperson of the Indian Space Research Organisation K. Radhakrishnan, has recommended restructuring of the National Testing Agency (NTA).

  • The seven-member panel was appointed in June 2024 following complaints of question paper leak in the Common University Entrance Test-Undergraduate (CUET-UG).
  • It has recommended significant reforms in the functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA) to enhance transparency, efficiency, and coordination in conducting national-level entrance exams. 

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Key Recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Panel

  • Policy Interventions: The panel recommended three policy interventions:
    • Multi-session testing, 
    • Multi-stage testing for NEET-UG
    • Multitude subject streams in CUET admission tests in the report.
  • Digi-Exam System: The Committee has recommended Digi-Exam, on the lines of Digi-Yatra, to make the examination process foolproof.
    • Essentially, authentication will be done at the stages of application, test, admission/induction and study/ work
  • Methodology of the Normalisation Process: The parameters and methodology of the normalisation process that is integral to multi-session testing, should be well-defined, established, documented, and communicated transparently for each test.
  • Empowered Governance: Establish an accountable governing body with three sub-committees to oversee:
    • Test audit, ethics, and transparency.
    • Staff conditions and stakeholder relationships.
    • Nomination and policies.
  • Domain-Specific Expertise:
    • Leadership at NTA to consist of experts with proven experience.
    • Creation of 10 specialized verticals led by Directors for efficient management.
  • Strengthening Security: Guidelines provided for:
    • Secure question paper setting, printing, and transportation.
    • Testing center selection and seat allocation.
    • Prevention of impersonation and secure handling of OMR sheets.
  • Coordination with state Authorities: The Committee recommends that Coordination Committees at State and District levels may be set up with specified roles and responsibilities
    • To address the complaints from the States, the NTA should develop institutional linkage with State/District authorities for providing a secure test administration apparatus.
  • Testing Centre Allocation Policy: The panel envisioned a testing centre allocation policy to ensure that candidates have a choice of testing centres within their district of residence.
  • Transition to CBT: The panel also recommended a gradual transition from Paper-and-Pencil Testing (PPT) to Computer-Based Testing (CBT).
  • Mobile Test Centres (MTCs): It suggested “mobile test centres” or MTCs to help overcome the barriers to accessing the most remote and hard-to-reach locations.
  • Hybrid Process: It further recommended the adoption of a “hybrid process” for computer-based testing (CBT) and paper-and-pencil testing (PPT) methods.

About National Testing Agency (NTA)

  • It is a specialist, autonomous and self-sustained testing organization that conducts entrance examinations for admission/fellowship in higher educational institutions.
  • The NTA was incorporated on May 15, 2018, under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
  • Mandate: The NTA is entrusted to maintain international standards, efficiency, transparency and error free delivery for admissions and recruitment and address issues using best in every field, from test preparation, to test delivery and to test marking.

Major Issues with the Indian Examination System

  • Lack of Credibility: There is a lack of credibility and consistency in examinations conducted by different boards and universities. 
    • Frequent Scandals: There are frequent reports of scandals related to paper leaks, cheating, and fake degrees, which erodes public trust in the examination system. For Example: NEET-UG Paper Leak, UGC Net irregularities etc
  • Secrecy and Lack of Transparency: The entire exam process from setting papers to evaluating answer sheets is highly confidential. This lack of transparency allows mediocre practices to continue and facilitates exam malpractices. 
  • Inadequate Regulations: Regulators promote academic autonomy for colleges but do not enforce enough oversight on them. The decentralized system has led to a lack of standardization in learning assessments across institutions. 
  • Inadequate Penalties and Enforcement: The existing laws which criminalize cheating have not led to convictions which demonstrates lack of effective enforcement and penalties.
  • Lack of Special Investigation Agency: India lacks a dedicated agency to investigate all types of examination offenses and bring culprits to justice quickly.

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Analysis of Radhakrishnan Panel’s Recommendations for Restructuring NTA

  • Improved Access to Quality Education: The recommendations focus on improving access to competitive exams for students from remote and underrepresented areas.
    • Example: In the 2023 NEET exam, around 40% of candidates came from rural areas. However, they often face challenges such as limited exam centers and long travel distances.
  • Enhanced Credibility of NTA: Ensuring a more transparent and robust process will bolster trust in the National Testing Agency (NTA).
  • Integration of Technology: The Radhakrishnan Panel recommends adopting advanced technology for better exam management, such as AI-based proctoring systems and real-time monitoring.
    • Global Example: In China, AI-based systems are already used to monitor test takers in real-time, ensuring strict adherence to rules and preventing cheating.
  • Alignment with NEP 2020 Goals: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions a shift towards digital learning and assessment, with an emphasis on inclusivity and quality.

Way Forward

  • Enhanced Security Measures: To prevent paper leaks and malpractices, there is a need to implement stricter security protocols such as more robust digital encryption and increased surveillance at exam centers.
  • Technological Improvements: To address technical glitches, better infrastructure and backup systems are required to ensure a smooth exam process. 
    • Example: Transition to online exams could be a better solution, as it reduces the risks associated with printing and distribution. 
      • Real-time support and troubleshooting teams can help to mitigate issues during the exam. 
  • Policy and Structural Reforms: To address the allegations that NEET is facing from its formation, there is a need to establish a review committee to regularly assess its process and suggest improvements.
    • External audit of exam boards and publishing performance reports periodically.
    • Continuous assignments and assessments in addition to final exams.
    • Grievance redressal mechanisms for students regarding evaluation.
    • Need to ensure minimum quality standards through stricter monitoring.
    • Grading institutions on exam quality parameters like transparency, reliability, etc.
  • Maintain Transparency and Build Communication: Improved transparency from the NTA regarding the steps taken to ensure exam integrity can help rebuild trust among students. 
    • Also, a clear and timely communication about the examination process and any issues that arise will be critical.
    • Ensuring transparency in the exam process through external oversight.
  • Strict Penalties and its Enforcement: As per the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act, there is a need to impose stringent penalties on persons resorting to unfair means.
  • Public Awareness: Creating awareness among the public, particularly students, about the consequences of engaging in malpractices by engaging with educational institutions, civil society organisations, and the media and fostering a culture of integrity.
  • Strengthening Examination Administration: Addressing corruption within examination administration requires stringent measures to detect and punish offenders, ensuring accountability and transparency in the conduct of examinations is imperative.

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Conclusion

The Radhakrishnan Panel’s recommendations to restructure the NTA represent a critical step towards improving India’s testing and examination system. By focusing on enhanced coordination, technological integration, and a decentralized approach, India can address current challenges, including exam malpractices, infrastructure limitations, and accessibility issues. 

Read More About: Public Examinations Bill 2024

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) has taken steps to support women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to improve their business, use of technology, and access to finances.

About Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)

Self-Help Groups

  • It is the Flagship Program of the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD).
  • Objective: To reduce poverty by empowering the poor, especially women, through self-help groups (SHGs) and access to financial services and livelihoods.
  • Origin: Restructured from Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY) and renamed as DAY-NRLM in 2016.
  • This initiative offers funds to strengthen community institutions and financial management capacity.
    • The goal is to help SHG in building their track record to attract mainstream Bank finance.
  • Financial support provided by DAY-NRLM
    • Revolving Fund: SHGs receive Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000. 
    • Community Investment Fund: SHGs can receive a Community Investment Fund of up to Rs. 2.50 lakh to improve their financial standing. 
    • Interest subvention: To reduce the cost of Bank loans, DAY-NRLM provides interest subvention to women SHGs, making credit more affordable.

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Online Marketing Platform for SHG Products

  • There is an online marketing platform for SHG products  i.e., www.esaras.in.
  • Objective: The aim of this platform is to ensure better access of SHGs to online marketing. 

  • Key Sub-Schemes and Initiatives
    • Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP)
      • A sub-scheme under DAY-NRLM that supports SHG women or their family members to set up small businesses.
      • Key Statistics: 3.13 lakh rural enterprises were supported (as of October 2024).
    • Banking Correspondent Sakhis/Digipay Sakhis
      • SHG women are trained as Banking Correspondent Sakhis to improve access to banking services in rural areas.
      • Current Deployment: 1,35,127 Banking Correspondent Sakhis working under DAY-NRLM.

About Self-Help Groups

Self-Help Groups

  • SHGs are voluntary associations of economically disadvantaged individuals from similar socio-economic backgrounds.
  • An SHG typically includes 5 (minimum)  to 20 (maximum) members.
    • Members collaborate to solve common problems through mutual support and community action.
  • Origin of SHGs in India
    • 1984: Inspired by Prof. Yunus’s Grameen Bank model, SHGs were introduced for social mobilization.
    • NABARD’s Role: NABARD and NGOs initiated the SHG-Bank linkage program.
    • 1990: RBI recognized SHGs as an alternative credit model.   

Advantages of SHGs

  • Low Transaction Costs: Beneficial for both lenders and borrowers.
  • Women Empowerment: Encourages financial and social independence for women.
  • Reduced Informal Borrowing: Decreases reliance on local moneylenders.
  • Support by Corporates: Many companies promote SHGs for community development.

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Examples of Prominent SHGs in India

  • Mahila Arthik Vikas Mahamandal (MAVIM): Empowers women in Maharashtra through training and credit facilities.
  • Kudumbashree: Kerala-based program focused on women’s capacity building and income generation.
  • Bandhan-Konnagar: Provides microfinance services and livelihood support.
  • Bhagini Nivedita Gramin Vigyan Niketan (BNGVN): Promotes sustainable livelihoods through SHGs

  • No Collateral Requirement: Overcomes barriers to formal credit access.
  • Social Support: Platform for discussing and resolving common challenges.

Challenges Faced by SHGs

  • Beneficiary Identification: Difficulty in identifying and including the poorest individuals.
  • Training Gaps: Lack of quality training programs and expert trainers.
  • Financial Literacy Issues: Limited access to formal financial services.
  • Market Linkages: Poor integration with markets affects growth.
  • Community Support: Inadequate business environment and value chain support.

Government Initiatives and Policies Supporting SHGs

  • SHG-Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP): It is an initiative launched by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) in 1992. 
    • Self-Help GroupsIt aims to provide financial inclusion to rural poor, especially women, by linking Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with formal banking institutions. 
  • Mission for Financial Inclusion (MFI): This initiative is a broader initiative to ensure access to financial services, namely, Banking/ Savings & Deposit Accounts, Remittance, Credit, Insurance, Pension in an affordable manner.
  • Lakhpati Didi Initiative:  This initiative was launched in 2023 which  empowers women of self help groups to take multifaceted approaches to economic empowerment.
    • It encourages them to adopt sustainable livelihood practices and have annual household income exceeding Rs. 1,00,000. 

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Way Forward

  • Advanced Technology:  SHG Should use better digital platforms for record-keeping, transactions, and communication 
  • Less reliance on informal lenders: This group, to reduce reliance on informal lenders and promote financial inclusion, should link it with financial institutions. 
  • Inclusive Approach:  SHGs should adopt an inclusive approach to ensure fair participation and benefits of members from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. 
  • Community Resource Person (CRP): There should be a trained CRP to guide SHGs in identifying beneficiaries, managing finances, and scaling activities. 

Recently the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP) released a report titled ‘Policy and Regulatory Interventions to Address Antibiotic Shortages in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

  • The report examines global, national, and subnational measures to address antibiotic shortages, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
  • This study was conducted under the SECURE initiative, which aims to ensure equitable and sustainable access to quality-assured antibiotics. 

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Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP):

  • It is an organisation focused on developing new treatments to combat drug-resistant infections while ensuring their responsible use and sustainable access.

About Antibiotic Shortages

  • WHO defines antibiotic shortages as a scenario in which “the supply of approved and marketed medicines, health products and vaccines identified as essential by the health system is insufficient to meet public health and patient needs”. 
  • Stock-Outs: Complete absence of antibiotics at the point of service delivery.

Factors Contributing to Antibiotic Shortages

  • Global Level:
    • Weak supply chains and limited manufacturers.
  • National Level:
    • High prices, making antibiotics inaccessible for patients and healthcare systems.
    • Lack of predictive demand-monitoring systems for manufacturers.
  • Subnational Level:
    • Stock-outs caused by poor infrastructure, inefficient distribution, and weak transport networks.

Challenges Specific to LMICs

  • In LMICs, most National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) lack mandates to address shortages.
  • Antibiotics are often unavailable due to high marketing costs, low profitability, or regulatory barriers.
  • Circulation of substandard or falsified antibiotics further complicates access.

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Global Disparities in Access

  • New antibiotics are often introduced only in wealthy countries due to commercial interests, leaving LMICs underserved.
  • Stock-outs are becoming more frequent even in richer countries as antibiotics are withdrawn from markets due to lack of profitability.

Implications of Antibiotic Shortages

  • Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR):
    • Delayed or interrupted treatments allow bacteria to adapt and develop resistance.
    • Use of substandard or falsified antibiotics due to shortages promotes treatment failures and resistance.
    • Increased reliance on broad-spectrum antibiotics exacerbates resistance by applying unnecessary selective pressure.

Broader Implications

  • Healthcare Systems: Antibiotic shortages jeopardize the effectiveness of healthcare systems and increase vulnerability to AMR.
  • Global Equity: Strengthening LMIC capacities to anticipate and manage shortages is crucial for achieving equitable access.
  • Urgency: Addressing shortages is essential for safeguarding public health and reducing the economic and social burden of AMR.

Recommendations for Addressing Antibiotic Shortages

The report identifies five key strategies:

  1. Enhance Flexibility for Acute Shortages:
    • Allow temporary imports and safely extend expiry dates during shortages.
  2. Strengthen Sourcing:
    • Encourage multiple suppliers, local production, and maintain buffer stocks to anticipate shortages.
  3. Increase Visibility:
    • Share information about potential and existing shortages and map the movement of antibiotics within a country.
  4. Institutionalize Collaboration:
    • Develop emergency plans and build collaborative frameworks to handle future shortages.
  5. Strengthen Foundational Systems:
    • Improve core regulatory functions such as quality control, enforcement, and approval processes.

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Conclusion

The WHO-GARDP report underscores the critical need for integrated, proactive measures to manage antibiotic shortages. By adopting a combination of the recommended strategies, countries can build resilient healthcare systems capable of combating AMR and ensuring sustainable access to life-saving antibiotics.

Also Read: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Antibiotics Overuse and Antimicrobial Resistance in India

The number of avian species in a major wetland in north-eastern Assam has declined by almost 72% in 27 years, according to a study.

  • The study focused on the Bordoibam-Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary (BBBS), located along the Dhemaji and Lakhimpur districts of Assam.

Wetland of Assam

  • Assam, known for its rich biodiversity, boasts a vast network of wetlands, primarily comprising oxbow lakes and seasonal floodplain lakes called “beels.” 
  • These wetlands play a crucial role in flood mitigation, water regulation, and supporting diverse flora and fauna.
  • Deepor Beel, designated as a Ramsar site, is the  only Ramsar Site of Assam.
  • The state is home to several bird sanctuaries, providing safe havens for a wide array of avian species.

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Key Highlights of the Study on Avian Diversity at BBBS

  • Sharp Decline in Avian Species: In 1997, the bird sanctuary recorded 167 avian species. The most recent study (2022-2024) found only 47 species, indicating a 71.85% decline over 27 years.
  • Of the 47 bird species observed:
    • 3 species are winter migratory: Brown shrike, Citrine wagtail and White wagtail.
    • 1 summer migratory species:  Lesser kestrel
    • The remaining 43 species are resident birds.
  • Causes of Decline : 
    • Anthropogenic Activities such as Overfishing, Excessive harvesting of aquatic plants and Poaching of wild birds and bird egg collection.
    • Disturbances such as use of high-decibel machines for farming near the sanctuary and conversion of the sanctuary into pastureland.
  • Poached Bird Species: Lesser whistling duck, Fulvous whistling duck, White-breasted waterhen, Indian pond heron, Eastern spotted dove and Yellow-footed green pigeon.
  • Environmental Impacts: Wetland degradation may lead to lowering of the water table, disruption of the food chain,decline in migratory bird populations and slowing of the nutrient cycle.
    • These changes pose threats to the ecosystem, environment, and human livelihoods.
  • Call for Conservation: The study stresses the need for intense conservation efforts to restore and protect BBBS’s biodiversity.
  • Biodiversity in Assam: Assam is home to about 950 bird species, including 17 endemic species.
    • The State has 55 Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas that serve as critical habitats for various avian species.

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About Bordoibam-Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary (BBBS)

  • BBBS is a  small wetland located on the boundary of Dhemaji and Lakhimpur districts, Assam.
  • Origin: Formed as a result of the 1950 earthquake.
  • Declared a wildlife sanctuary by the Government of Assam in 1996.
  • Hydrology: Initially part of the Subansiri River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra.
  • The Subansiri River now flows 7 km away from the lake.
  • Climate: The sanctuary experiences a moist tropical climate and receives approximately 2,000 mm of rainfall annually.
  • Vegetation: Features flooded valley grasslands and wetlands.
  • Fauna
    • Hosts large numbers of migratory waterfowl during winter.
    • Home to globally threatened species such as:
      • Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis): Near Threatened
      • Lesser Adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus): Endangered
      • Swamp Francolin (Francolinus gularis): Vulnerable

Two new submarine cable systems, India Asia Xpress (IAX) and India Europe Xpress (IEX), are set to be launched adding additional Internet links between India and Asia, as well as India and Europe.

About IAX and IEX Connections

  • India Asia Xpress (IAX): Connects Chennai and Mumbai with Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia in Asia.
  • India Europe Xpress (IEX): Links India with France, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Djibouti in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

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About Submarine Cables (SMC)

Undersea Cables

  • SMCs are fiber optic cables  laid on the ocean floor and designed to transmit optical signals  resulting in high bandwidth and long-distance transmission capabilities.
  • Submarine cables are the foundation of global communications, enabling connectivity between continents and markets.
  • Outer protective layer: Provides protection against environmental hazards such as:
    • Deep-sea pressure.
    • Corrosion.
    • Marine activity.
  • Core fibre strands: Designed for high-speed data transmission with minimal signal loss.
  • Undersea CablesSubmarine Cable (SMC) Connectivity in India
    • India hosts 17 international subsea cables that connect through 14 landing stations located in cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Tuticorin, and Trivandrum.
    • Mumbai and Chennai have the highest concentration of submarine cable landing stations.

Regulation of Submarine Cable Connectivity

  • The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issues International Long-Distance (ILD) licenses to operators.
  • ILD licensees, with prior approval from DoT, are authorized to:
    • Set up Cable Landing Stations.
    • Lay submarine cables within Indian territory.
  • Internet Service Licensees under the Unified License can also:
    • Install, operate, and commission International Internet Gateways using submarine cables.

Undersea Cables

About Optical Fibre

  • Composition: Made of glass or plastic to transmit information as light pulses.
  • Working Principle: Operates on the principle of Total Internal Reflection, where light travels through the core by continuously bouncing off the cladding.
  • Data Transmission: Enables the transfer of vast amounts of data rapidly with minimal loss of optical power.

International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience (IABSR)

  • IABSR is an independent advisory body established in 2021.
  • It does not have a physical headquarters. It operates as a distributed body with members located in various countries.
  • Objective: Its primary objective is to enhance the resilience and security of the global submarine cable network.

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Challenges in India’s Undersea Cable Network Expansion

  • Physical Damages and Cyberattacks: Submarine cables are prone to physical damages from natural events or accidents. They are also susceptible to cyberattacks by state and non-state actors, raising concerns about digital security.
  • Choke Points: The Malacca Strait, a key route for undersea cables connecting Mumbai and Chennai to Singapore, poses a critical vulnerability.Resilience of Infrastructure: Disruptions in March 2024 affecting three submarine cables connecting India to West Asia and Europe highlighted the need for stronger network resilience.
  • Limited Connectivity Alternatives: Current solutions bypassing vulnerable regions like the Malacca Strait have not yet been developed, leaving the network reliant on these high-risk routes.
  • Regional Geopolitical Dynamics: The Bangladeshi government’s recent decision to halt bandwidth sales to Northeast India adds complexity to connectivity in the region.
    • Incidents like the Red Sea crisis underscore the global interconnectedness of submarine cable networks and the potential impact of disruptions in one region on others.
  • Cost of Redundancy: Telcos and tech companies mitigate risks by purchasing bandwidth on multiple routes, but this increases operational costs, making redundancy an ongoing financial challenge.

Way Forward

  • Network Diversification: Addressing these challenges requires strategic investments in network diversification and development of alternative routes to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
  • International Collaboration: India’s growing role in regional connectivity is being closely monitored, and proactive engagement in forums like the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience (IABSR) is essential.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has urged the Lok Sabha Speaker and the Rajya Sabha Chairman to take action against Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

  • This follows a complaint by BJP MP Phangnon Konyak, alleging that Mr. Gandhi “misbehaved” with her during a protest on Parliament premises.

About National Commission for Women (NCW)

  • The NCW is an autonomous and statutory body established in 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990.
  • National Commission for WomenIt was created to protect and promote women’s rights in India.
  • The idea was recommended by the Committee on the Status of Women in India (1974) and the National Perspective Plan for Women (1988).
  • Nodal Ministry: The NCW operates under the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
  • Composition: The commission consists of a Chairperson and five Members, one of whom must belong to the SC or ST category and  a member-Secretary.
  • Eligibility Criteria
  • Chairperson: Must be committed to the cause of women.
  • Five Members: Must be experts in fields such as law, legislation, women’s employment, social welfare, and health.
  • Member-Secretary: Must either be an expert in management or an officer from the Civil Services.

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  • Functions of NCW:
    • Review Constitutional and Legal Safeguards for women.
    • Recommend remedial legislative measures to address gaps in women’s rights.
    • Facilitate redressal of grievances related to women.
    • Advise the Government on all policy matters affecting women.
    • Inspect jails, remand homes, and women’s institutions to ensure compliance with women’s rights and welfare standards.
  • Tenure: Members, including the Chairperson, serve a term of three years.
  • Grounds for Removal: The Central Government can remove the Chairperson or any Member under the following conditions:
    • If the individual is declared insolvent.
    • If they engage in paid employment outside their official duties during their term.
    • If they refuse to act or become incapable of performing their duties.
    • If they are declared of unsound mind by a competent court.
    • If they have abused their office, making their continuation detrimental to the public interest.
    • If they are convicted and sentenced for an offense involving moral turpitude.

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has established the SAMARTH Udyog Bharat 4.0 initiative to enhance the competitiveness of the Indian capital goods sector

About SAMARTH Udyog Bharat 4.0

  • The Scheme for “Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector” has set up 4 Smart Advanced Manufacturing and Rapid Transformation Hub (SAMARTH) Centres.
  • Key Centres Established Under SAMARTH Udyog Bharat 4.0
    • IITD-AIA Foundation for Smart Manufacturing, Delhi
    • Centre for Industry 4.0 (C4i4) Lab Pune, Maharashtra
    • I-4.0 India @ IISc Bengaluru, Karnataka
    • Smart Manufacturing Demo & Development Cell CMTI, Bengaluru, Karnataka
  • Additionally, 10 Industry 4.0 experience centres are being established across India under the Hub-and-Spoke model by the C4i4 Lab, Pune.
  • The primary goals of the initiative are:
    • Promoting the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies.
    • Creating awareness and providing training for manufacturers, vendors, and customers.
    • Upskilling the workforce in cutting-edge areas such as IoT, data analytics, and smart manufacturing.
    • Supporting MSMEs and startups with incubation, consultancy, and skill development.

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Phases of SAMARTH Udyog Bharat 4.0

  • Initiation Phase: Identifying key stakeholders, including manufacturers and MSMEs.
    • Establishing centres for Industry 4.0 demonstrations and training.
  • Implementation Phase: Organizing awareness seminars, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events.Training industries and workforce in Industry 4.0 technologies.
  • Consultancy and Incubation:
    • Providing support for IoT hardware, software development, and data analytics.
    • Assisting startups and MSMEs with technical expertise.

Significance of the Initiative

  • Enhances India’s manufacturing competitiveness on a global scale.
  • Bridges the skill gap in emerging technologies.
  • Encourages the integration of smart and sustainable production systems.
  • Supports the vision of making India a hub for advanced manufacturing.

The 11th Plenary meeting of the IPBES has approved 2 reports, namely ‘The IPBES Transformative Change Assessment Report’ and the ‘Nexus Report’ to accelerate biodiversity action and achieving the 2050 Vision for Biodiversity.

Highlights of “Nexus Report”

  • Full Name: The Assessment Report on the Interlinkages Among Biodiversity, Water, Food and Health
  • The Report undertakes scientific assessment of the complex interconnections between the 5  major challenges facing the humanity and explores specific response options to maximize co-benefits 
  • Nexus Elements: The 5 global challenges below operates in a nexus and interact, cascade and compound each other in ways that make separate efforts to address them ineffective and counterproductive
    • Examples: Climate change, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, water scarcity, and health risks 

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  • Biodiversity Loss: Biodiversity is declining at a rate of about 2-6 per cent on an average every decade over the last half a century.
    • Drivers of Biodiversity Loss:  
      • Direct Drivers: These include land- and sea-use change, unsustainable exploitation, invasive alien species and pollution
      • Indirect Socioeconomic Drivers: These include, increasing waste, overconsumption and population growth
  • IPBES ReportsEconomic Cost of Neglect: The Report highlighted that, over half of the global GDP, approximately $58 trillion annually, depends on nature and the unaccounted-for costs for neglect of biodiversity in business as usual scenario is estimated to be around at least $10-25 trillion annually.
    • Delayed Action on Biodiversity Goals: Delaying action even by a decade could double the cost of acting now with an additional cost of at least $500 billion per year in additional costs. 
    • Ecological Economy: Immediate action to address the biodiversity crisis however will unlock massive business and innovation opportunities, generating $10 trillion and supporting 395 million jobs worldwide by 2030.
  • Inequality: As per the report, 41% of people live in areas that saw extremely strong declines in biodiversity between 2000 and 2010, 9% in areas that have experienced very high health burdens and 5% in areas with high levels of malnutrition.
  • Synergistic Approach:  The report has identified over 70 response options that produced positive outcomes across all the five elements.
    • Examples: To restore carbon-rich ecosystems such as forests, soils and mangroves, effective management of biodiversity to reduce risks of diseases spreading from animals to humans, promotion of sustainable healthy diets, and reliance on nature-based solutions.

Highlights of The Transformative Change Assessment Report

  • It builds on the 2019 IPBES Global Assessment Report, which found that the only way to achieve global development goals is through transformative change.
  • Definition: Transformative Change is  defined as, 
    • A fundamental system-wide shifts in views ie. ways of thinking, knowing and seeing; structures ie. ways of organizing, regulating and governing; and practices ie. ways of doing, behaving and relating.
  • Principles to guide Transformative Change:
    • Equity and Justice 
    • Pluralism and Inclusion
    • Respectful and Reciprocal Human-Nature Relationships
    • Adaptive Learning and Action.
  • Underlying Causes of Biodiversity Loss:
    • Disconnection of people from nature and domination over nature and other people
    • The inequitable concentration of power and wealth
    • The prioritisation of short-term individual and material gains. 
  • Challenges to Transformative Change: 
    • Relations of domination over nature and people, especially those that emerged and were propagated in colonial eras and that persist over time
    • Economic  and Political Inequalities
    • Inadequate Policies and Unfit Institutions
    • Unsustainable consumption and production patterns including individual habits and practices
    • Limited access to clean technologies and uncoordinated knowledge and innovation systems.
  • Synergistic Strategies for Transformative Change:
    • Conserve, Restore and Regenerate Places of Value that Exemplify Biocultural Diversity:  Adopt a strategy where place- based actions, such as restoration activities, can also support cultural values, sustainable production and biodiversity.
      • Example: The Community Forestry Programme in Nepal integrates decentralized forest policy into local community needs, views and practices to restore and manage degraded forests.
    • Drive Systematic Change:  Mainstreaming biodiversity in the sectors most responsible for nature’s decline like agriculture and livestock, fisheries, forestry, infrastructure and urban development, mining and fossil fuel  by promoting multifunctional and regenerative land use.
    • Transform Economic Systems: Global economic systems need to be transformed drastically by adopting actions like,
      • To internalize environmental costs and using true cost accounting, reforming subsidies in environmentally damaging sectors, establishing sustainability as a core tax principle, and redefining goals, metrics and indicators to acknowledge social, cultural, economic and environmental dimensions.
    • An Inclusive, Accountable and Adaptive Governance System: Integrating biodiversity into sector policies and decision-making with greater participation of actors with accountability are important elements in transforming governance systems
      • Example: Ecosystems-based spatial management of the Galapagos Marine Reserve, which supports sustainable fisheries and tourism – vital for more than 30,000 residents and 300,000 annual visitors.

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The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)

  • IBPES is an independent intergovernmental body established to strengthen the science-policy interface for biodiversity and ecosystem services for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and sustainable development.
  • Established: It was established in Panama City, on 21 April 2012 by 94 Governments. 
  • United Nations Status: It is not a United Nations body.
  • Secretariat: The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) provides secretariat services to IPBES.
  • Plenary: It is the governing body of IPBES and is  made up of the representatives of IPBES member States. It usually meets once per year.
  • Function: IPBES broadly works in these areas,
    • Assessments: On specific themes (“Pollinators, Pollination and Food Production”); methodological issues (“Scenarios and Modelling); and at both the regional and global levels (“Global Assessment of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services”).
    • Policy Support: Identifying policy-relevant tools and methodologies, facilitating their use, and catalyzing their further development.

India’s First Solar Border Village

Context: Masali village in Banaskantha district of Gujarat, has become the country’s first solar border village, emerging as a 100 percent solar powered village in the country.

About Masali Village

  • Masali village is located 40 kilometers from the Pakistan border
  • The Border Solar Project: The Banaskantha district administration  under the Border Development Project, has taken initiative to make 11 border villages in Vav taluka and six in Suigam taluka, as entirely solar powered villages.
  • Implementation: The Project is being implemented under the PM Suryaghar Yojana

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About the PM Suryaghar Yojana

  • PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a government scheme that aims to provide free electricity to households in India by providing a subsidy to install solar panels on their rooftops.
  • Launched: The scheme was launched by the Prime Minister on February 15, 2024.
  • Under the scheme, households will get a subsidy to cover up to 40% of the cost of the solar panels. 

Average Monthly Electricity Consumption (units) Suitable Rooftop Solar Plant Capacity Subsidy Support
0-150 1-2 kW ₹ 30,000/- to ₹ 60,000/-
150-300 2-3 kW ₹ 60,000/- to ₹ 78,000/-
> 300 Above 3 kW ₹ 78,000/-

About Border Area Development Programme (BADP)

  • It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) that aims to develop border areas in India by providing essential infrastructure and sustainable livelihood opportunities to the people living in the border areas.
  • Range: The Programme covers 117 border districts in 16 states and 2 union territories
  • Funding: The Centre’s share of funding varies by state, with a 90:10 ratio for the 8 North Eastern states, a 60:40 ratio for the other 6 states, and 100% for the Union Territory of Ladakh
  • Projects: BADP undertakes projects like, 
    • Construction of schools, hostels, and community centers; Setting up public libraries and reading rooms; Providing vocational and technical education; Skill development training for youth; Construction of boundary walls and barbed wire fencing; Rural sanitation and toilet blocks etc.

 

Never Events: Failures in Patient Safety

Context: This article sheds light on the Never events occurring in the healthcare setting. 

About Never Events

  • ‘Never events’ are serious, preventable incidents in healthcare caused by lapses in safety protocols.
    • Term was introduced by the National Quality Forum (NQF) in 2002 in the United States.
  • Prevalence: Studies reveal that never events persist at a rate of 1 to 2 per 100 incidents, with overall patient safety incidents occurring in 2 to 3 out of every 100 consultations.
  • Widely used in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada to improve patient safety.
    • This term has not been explicitly acknowledged or used in the Indian context.
      • In India, similar incidents are categorised and addressed under the broader legal framework of medical negligence
        • Frameworks:
          • Medical Negligence: Failure to meet expected standards of care (Bolam test).
          • Iatrogenic Events: Harm directly caused by medical intervention (e.g., surgical errors).
          • Medical Maloccurrence: These are Unavoidable outcomes that cannot be prevented despite proper care (e.g., rib fractures during CPR).
  • Characteristics of Never Events
    • Types of Harm:
      • Operating on the wrong body part.
      • Insulin overdoses.
      • Mismatched blood transfusions.
    • Consequences: Disability, death, or significant patient discomfort.
    • Overlap: Similar to terms like ‘sentinel events’ or ‘serious reportable events.’

 

Protected Area Regime

Context: The Central Government has reimposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in the northeastern states of Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland. 

  • This decision arises from increasing security concerns due to an influx of individuals from neighboring countries

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About Protected Area Regime (PAR)

  • It is a security measure under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, which mandates that foreign nationals require special permits to visit certain areas in India, especially in sensitive border regions.
  • States and Union Territories under PAR: Parts of the northeastern states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim.
  • Inner Line Permit (ILP) regions: Some areas overlap with the ILP System.
    • The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is a document required by Indian citizens to enter and travel within certain restricted areas of Northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur (partially).
    • ILP was introduced in India to protect the indigenous tribes from exploitation in the name of tourism and to preserve the rich heritage of their traditions and cultures.
    • The ILP system is not explicitly mentioned in the Indian Constitution. However, it is based on the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873, which was enacted by the British government. 

Provisions for Protected Area Permit (PAP)

  • Duration: The PAP is generally valid for 10 days, with an extension option.
  • Issuing Authorities: Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and State Governments where the protected area is located.
  • Requirements for Obtaining PAP: Foreign nationals must provide necessary documentation, including passports and itineraries.
    • Certain nationalities may face additional restrictions due to security concerns.
  • Exemptions: Citizens of Bhutan are exempted from the PAP requirement.

 

Dinga Dinga

Context: Dinga Dinga disease, is a mysterious ailment causing severe bodily tremors, fever, and weakness in Uganda.

About Dinga Dinga

  • The name “Dinga Dinga” translates to “shaking like dancing,” describing the uncontrollable body movements observed in patients.
  • It primarily affects women and girls, with no fatalities recorded so far.
    • The illness highlights the need for vigilance in identifying and managing emerging diseases.
  • Spread: The cause of Dinga Dinga remains a mystery.
  • The speculation around the disease ranges from viral infections to other environmental elements, but no definite solutions have been discovered yet.
  • Symptoms
    • Uncontrollable shaking: Resembles violent, involuntary dance-like movements.
    • Fever and extreme fatigue: High fever accompanied by overwhelming weakness.
    • Paralysis-like immobility: Some patients struggle with basic movements, including walking.
  • Treatment: Antibiotics have been effective, with most patients recovering within a week.

 

Squirrels are ‘Opportunistic Omnivores’

Context: A study has revealed that squirrels, traditionally considered herbivorous, are opportunistic omnivores

  • Squirrel studied: California Ground Squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi):
  • Conservation Status:
    • IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
    • WPA 1972 Listing: Not explicitly listed in any schedule of the WPA, 1972, as it is common and not considered threatened.

Key Findings of the Study

  • Dietary Habits of Squirrels
    • Traditional Perception: Squirrels are widely believed to be herbivores, primarily consuming nuts, seeds, and fruits.
    • Research Discovery: Squirrels exhibit omnivorous tendencies and opportunistically hunt small animals like birds, reptiles, and insects.
      • Example: Instances of squirrels preying on chicks and stealing eggs were observed.
  • Adaptive Evolution
    • Opportunistic Feeding: Squirrels adapt to their surroundings, consuming protein-rich food when plant-based resources are scarce.
    • Survival Mechanism: This omnivorous behavior supports their survival in diverse ecosystems, particularly during harsh winters or resource shortages.
  • Behavior and Stealth
    • Hunting Traits: The research highlights that squirrels are capable of hunting prey with stealth and precision.
    • Strategic Feeding: Their ability to modify dietary habits reflects advanced problem-solving and adaptive strategies.

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Relevant Terms in the article

1. Opportunistic Omnivore

  • An organism that primarily consumes plant-based food but adapts to eating animal matter based on availability and necessity.
    • Example: Squirrels eating eggs or insects during food shortages.

2. Behavioral Plasticity

  • The ability of an organism to alter its behavior in response to environmental changes.
    • Example: Squirrels hunting prey in ecosystems with limited vegetation.

3. Keystone Species

  • A species that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure and health of an ecosystem.
    • Squirrels as Keystone Species: Their role in seed dispersal supports forest regeneration.

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