Definition of Learning Poverty

Learning Poverty refers to the inability of children to read and comprehend a simple text by the age of 10, combining indicators of schooling and learning. This concept highlights the crucial role of reading proficiency in overall educational development, akin to how the absence of child stunting signifies healthy physical growth.

Importance of Eliminating Learning Poverty

• Poverty Reduction: Addressing learning poverty is vital for eradicating poverty and fostering shared prosperity within communities.
• Improving Learning Outcomes: Without significant intervention, it is projected that 43% of 10-year-olds may be unable to read by 2030. Poor learning outcomes raise concerns about the integrity of educational processes, as many students may pass without truly grasping content. Instilling critical thinking is essential for their future success and the nation’s progress, contributing positively to the economy.
• Achieving SDG Goals: Eliminating learning poverty is necessary for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
• Increasing Productivity: The learning crisis adversely affects future workforces and economic competitiveness, ultimately leading to decreased global productivity.

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Reasons for Increased Learning Poverty

• School Closures: The pandemic-induced school closures and the transition to online learning have exacerbated learning poverty, causing significant setbacks for students.
• Poor School Systems: Inadequate educational systems fail to support comprehensive learning due to merged classes, and insufficient study materials. The absence of adequately trained teachers and the use of ineffective teaching methodologies also adversely impact learning outcomes.
• Dropouts: Many children worldwide lack proficient reading skills, largely due to high dropout rates from schools.
• Economic Decline: Economic downturns often push students from private to government schools, widening the quality gap in education.
• Poor Study Material: Ineffective textbooks and learning resources hinder students’ educational potential.
• Malnutrition: Poor nutrition and unhealthy living environments significantly contribute to learning poverty.

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In July 2024, during the presentation of the Union Budget for FY 2024-25, the Government of India announced significant initiatives aimed at expanding the country’s nuclear energy sector. This included proposals for partnerships with the private sector to research and develop Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) and Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR), with a production capacity ranging from 30 to 300 MW, as well as advancements in newer nuclear energy technologies. This strategic move is presumably intended to fulfil India’s commitments made during the COP26 Summit in Glasgow in 2021, where the nation pledged to enhance its clean energy capabilities and reduce carbon emissions.

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Existing Framework Governing the Nuclear Sector

• The Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (AEA): The AEA, amended by the Atomic Energy (Amendment) Act, 1987 (No. 29 of 1987), is the primary governing statute overseeing the development and operation of the nuclear energy sector in India. Importantly, Section 3(a) of the AEA empowers only the central government to “produce, develop, use, and dispose of atomic energy,” establishing a monopoly for the central government over nuclear activities until now.
• Sandeep T.S. vs. Union of India & Ors. Case: In this case, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a petition challenging the provisions of the AEA that restrict the involvement of private entities in the licensing of nuclear power. The Court emphasised that nuclear power is inherently dangerous, thus asserting that only Parliament should regulate it. The Parliamentary regime is designed to ensure a calibrated exploitation of atomic power, subject to stringent safeguards, considering the potential consequences of misuse or accidents.
• Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA): This act imposes liability on the company operating a nuclear power plant in the event of a nuclear accident, requiring them to provide compensation regardless of fault. Currently, there is a pending challenge to the constitutionality of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA) in the Supreme Court. 
  • Critics argue that this provision poses a significant obstacle to attracting investment in the nuclear energy sector, as potential investors are deterred by the compliance requirement to accept liability even if they are not at fault.

NITI Aayog Report- The Role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the Energy Transition

The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and NITI Aayog released a report titled “The Role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the Energy Transition,” which highlights the potential of SMRs in India’s energy landscape. The report emphasises two critical requirements for fostering private sector participation in the development and deployment of SMRs.

• Firstly, it calls for a conducive SMR regulatory framework that is led by national regulators, outlining clear guidelines on production standards and compliance measures. This framework would ensure that private entities understand the regulatory landscape and can operate within it effectively.
• Secondly, the report stresses the need for an unambiguous civil nuclear liability framework and a supporting legal structure. This framework should assure private sector entrants that liabilities and punishments would only apply in cases of negligence or wrongdoing, thereby encouraging sustainable and continuous engagement from private players in the nuclear energy sector.

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Current Involvement of the Private Sector

• The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has engaged the private sector primarily in areas such as engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC), as well as in the supply of materials for nuclear projects.
  • For instance, companies like Megha Engineering & Infrastructures and Reliance have been involved in developing infrastructure for nuclear reactors. 
• However, it is important to note that these private entities are not participating in core nuclear energy operations, which remain under the purview of NPCIL.

Way Ahead

• Joint Venture Approach: One potential way forward is to establish public-private partnerships in the form of joint ventures. In this structure, NPCIL or a similar government authority could retain 51% ownership of nuclear plants, in alignment with existing laws. This approach would invite private capital investment while ensuring that responsibility, ownership, and accountability remain with the government.
• Transparency and Accountability: Furthermore, entities with a majority government stake would fall under Section 2(h) of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, which mandates transparency. 
  • These entities would be required to make disclosures as outlined in Section 4 and respond to reasonable public inquiries under Section 6 of the RTI Act, thus ensuring public accountability.

This collaborative model presents a win-win situation for both the government and private sector, fostering investment while maintaining oversight and responsibility in the nuclear energy sector.

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Conclusion

Thus, incorporating private participation in India’s nuclear energy sector can significantly enhance investment, innovation, and efficiency while ensuring stringent regulatory oversight. This collaborative approach not only supports India’s energy transition but also aligns with its commitments to sustainable development and reduced carbon emissions.

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The term silver dividend refers to the potential economic opportunities arising from an increasing ageing population, much like the demographic dividend that benefits from a large working-age population. The concept highlights how countries can leverage the growing elderly population for economic gain, similar to how countries(example: China)  capitalised on its youthful workforce(demographic dividend) to boost economic growth.

The ageing population is a global trend, but the impact is more pronounced in countries like India and China due to their large populations. As these nations experience a demographic shift, where a significant portion of the population is ageing, they face both challenges and opportunities.

Also Read: International Day Of Older Persons 2024

Challenges of Elderly Population

• Elderly Care:
  • As the population ages, the demand for healthcare services and long-term care increases. The elderly often require more medical attention, specialised care, and assistance with daily activities, placing a strain on healthcare systems and caregiving resources.
• Mental Health Issues:
  • Around one-third of the elderly population suffers from depression and low life satisfaction, often feeling unmotivated and disconnected from work or society.
  • These mental health challenges further complicate caregiving and healthcare needs.

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Emerging Opportunities

• New Business Opportunities:
  • The rising demand for elder care has created new markets for healthcare services, retirement communities, mobility aids, and other elder-focused products.
  • This is beneficial for the economy, creating jobs in healthcare, home care, assistive technology, and senior living industries.
• Economic Growth:
  • The increased healthcare consumption among the elderly, presently estimated at $7 billion, represents a growing market that could stimulate economic growth, especially in health services and related industries.

Current State of the Aging Population

The healthcare consumption of the elderly population in India is currently estimated at $7 billion, and this number is steadily rising. This is a significant figure, driven by the growing healthcare needs of this demographic.

• Chronic Illnesses: Three-quarters of the elderly in India suffer from at least one chronic ailment, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory conditions.
• Limitations in Daily Living: Approximately 25% of elderly individuals experience difficulties with daily activities due to decreased mobility and age-related issues.
• Mental Health Concerns: A third of the elderly population displays symptoms of depression and low life satisfaction, often feeling unmotivated and disconnected from productive activities.
• Economic Insecurities: Many elderly individuals in India face economic insecurities as they rely on their children for financial support, leading to feelings of dependency and burden within families. The lack of financial independence exacerbates their mental and emotional challenges.

Addressing the concerns to improve well being of Elderly

To improve the well-being of the elderly population, there is an urgent need for senior care reform. This requires a multi-sectoral approach, involving healthcare, social welfare, financial planning, and mental health services. 

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Health Empowerment and Inclusion

• Health Literacy: Improving health awareness among the elderly and their caregivers is vital. Enhancing health literacy helps the elderly understand preventive care and manage chronic conditions better.
• Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM): The Ayushman Arogya Mandir initiative is a key step toward improving healthcare access for the elderly, delivering comprehensive primary healthcare at 1,50,000 centres across India. These centres aim to provide universal and free healthcare services to all.
  • Expanded Healthcare Services: Under this initiative, primary healthcare centres, which previously focused on basic medical services and maternity care, now aim to cover broader health services, benefiting the elderly in particular.This involves a preventive, promotive, curative and rehabilitative component under the multiple systems of ayurveda, yoga, naturopathy, unani, siddha and homoeopathy (AYUSH).

This comprehensive model will ensure easier access to screenings for common non-communicable diseases, which will be highly beneficial for the elderly.

Additional Measures Needed

• More Hospitals, Doctors, and Clinics: Increase the number of healthcare facilities and professionals to meet rising demands.
• Teleconsultation Services: Make telemedicine accessible to the elderly, allowing for remote healthcare consultations.
• Training and Sensitization: Ensure healthcare workers are trained to handle the specific needs of the elderly and provide compassionate care.
• Focus on Mental Health: Address mental health issues, including depression and social isolation, which are common among the elderly.
• Nutrition: Monitor and ensure the elderly are consuming proper nutrition, as malnutrition can worsen health outcomes in old age.

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Social Dimension

• Social Inclusion: People around the elderly, including family members and caregivers, need to be sensitised to the emotional and psychological needs of seniors. This includes understanding what makes them happy, what upsets them, and how to engage with them in a respectful and empathetic manner.
• Support Groups: Accessible support groups should be established where the elderly can openly discuss common concerns, share experiences, and find emotional support. While a few such groups exist, they need to be expanded and made more available to ensure seniors have spaces for connection and expression.
• Legal Awareness:Elderly individuals must be informed of their legal rights, including inheritance and protection laws. Unfortunately, cases where children take control of property and then abandon their parents are not uncommon. Awareness of laws such as the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, which can protect them in such situations, is crucial.
• Workshops for Legal Rights: Regular workshops should be conducted where lawyers can educate elderly individuals about their rights, including inheritance, property, and protection laws, empowering them to take appropriate legal steps if necessary.

Economic Dimension

• Innovative Financial Schemes: Economic and financial insecurities among the elderly need to be tackled by introducing targeted financial schemes and insurance products designed specifically for their needs. These could include higher interest rates on savings or investment plans that encourage long-term savings, which can help reduce the financial burden in their later years.
• Health Coverage Expansion:The recent expansion of PM Jan Arogya Yojana under Ayushman Bharat to provide ₹5 lakh health coverage for every individual above 70 years is a positive step in securing healthcare for seniors. More such initiatives that combine health and financial security are needed to reduce the economic stress on the elderly population.
• Reskilling for Economic Independence:Encouraging the reskilling of the ageing population (those around 55 years old) could help them remain economically independent. For example, if individuals like Priya aunty at 55 are trained in digital skills, they could engage in freelance work or other flexible opportunities even after formal retirement, extending their productive working life.
• Digital Literacy and Access:Organising digital literacy classes and creating user-friendly applications tailored to elderly users can ensure they are not left behind in the digital economy. Apps like a Senior Connect platform should be simple and easy for older individuals to navigate, helping them access financial services, healthcare, and even work opportunities.

Silver Economy

• The idea of transforming the ageing population challenge into an opportunity lies in embracing the silver economy—a market for goods and services catered to the elderly. This could include everything from healthcare products, assisted living services, and digital tools, to leisure and lifestyle activities, opening new business avenues and boosting economic growth.
  • For example, this economy includes the development of easy-to-use smartphones, specialised furniture, and other products tailored to the needs of older adults
• As this demographic grows, it is becoming an increasingly significant market segment. In India, the current value of the silver economy is estimated at ₹73,082 crore and is projected to grow substantially in the coming years.
•  With the 60-plus population projected to reach 13.2% by 2031 and 19% by mid-century, the elderly will represent a major consumer group. This age group, especially professionals aged 45-64, is often considered the wealthiest, leading to the saying: “They become rich before they grow old.”
• A significant portion of this demographic’s spending—about a third—is on healthcare. This presents a tremendous opportunity for businesses focused on health, wellness, and senior care. As the demand for elder-specific products and services rises, the silver economy is expected to grow rapidly in both India and globally. 

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Conclusion

The growing elderly population presents both challenges and opportunities, with the silver economy poised to play a vital role in shaping future economic growth. By addressing the unique needs of the elderly through targeted innovations in healthcare, products, and services, India can harness this demographic shift to fuel economic development and enhance the quality of life for its ageing citizens.

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In July 2023, NASA announced the cancellation of its Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) mission to the Moon, which was designed to explore lunar polar regions for water ice and other volatiles.The cancellation of VIPER is particularly concerning as it reflects missed opportunities for commercial benefits and geopolitical influence in the increasingly competitive landscape of lunar exploration.

General Details

• VIPER was scheduled to launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket and land using Astrobotic’s ‘Griffin’ lander, both managed through NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program.
• The mission aimed to enhance scientific understanding of the Moon and contribute to future human exploration initiatives. 
• Through CLPS, NASA collaborates closely with private companies to foster innovation and efficiency in lunar exploration.

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Purpose of the VIPER Mission

The primary purpose of NASA’s Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) mission was to detect water ice on the Moon. This crucial endeavour aimed to identify and analyse the presence of water ice in the lunar polar regions, which could provide valuable insights into the Moon’s geology and its potential for supporting future human missions.

Reason for Cancellation

NASA’s decision to cancel the VIPER mission stemmed from significant cost overruns and delays, raising concerns within the scientific community. Many scientists expressed disappointment, especially since the assembly of the rover was nearly complete. Additionally, the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology was caught off guard by the cancellation, particularly given the ongoing competition with China in lunar exploration. The cancellation of such an important project during this critical period is being seen as a concern worldwide.

Historical Context

Since the 1960s, a competitive race has existed between the USSR and the U.S. regarding lunar exploration, with both nations reaping substantial commercial and geopolitical benefits from their efforts. Reaching the Moon first carries significant advantages, including:

• Commercial Gains: The potential for space tourism, which could become a lucrative industry, as well as access to critical lunar minerals, such as helium-3, which has been identified as a promising energy resource.
• Geopolitical Advantages: The nation that successfully establishes a sustainable presence on the Moon would likely enhance its soft power and influence globally. This presence could facilitate cooperation with other states and establish the nation as a leader in international space exploration initiatives

The Artemis Accords

The Artemis Accords are a set of international agreements established by NASA in 2020 to promote cooperation in the exploration and utilisation of outer space, particularly focusing on the Moon and Mars. Named after NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and eventually send astronauts to Mars, the Accords provide a framework for space exploration grounded in shared principles and norms.

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Key Principles

• Peaceful Exploration: The Accords emphasise that space exploration should be conducted for peaceful purposes. Signatory nations are encouraged to work together collaboratively and to respect the rights of others in their space endeavours.
• Transparency: Countries that sign the Accords commit to sharing information about their space activities, fostering transparency and trust among participants.
• Emergency Assistance: The Accords encourage signatories to assist each other during emergencies, ensuring the safety of astronauts and equipment during missions.

While the Artemis Accords promote collaboration, there is a perception that they function as a U.S.-led coalition against the China and Russia axis. This perception is particularly relevant in light of the increasing competition in space exploration, as both China and Russia have their own lunar ambitions. The VIPER mission was considered a critical component of the U.S.-led lunar axis defined by the Artemis Accords, further strengthening alliances among participating nations, including India.

Implications for India

• India missed a significant opportunity when, on September 18, the Union Cabinet approved a proposal by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to begin the second phase of the country’s lunar program with Chandrayaan-4. This mission aims to go to the Moon, collect samples, and return them to Earth.
• One possibility could have been for Chandrayaan-4 to incorporate the objectives of the cancelled VIPER mission, allowing India to showcase its capabilities in lunar exploration. By taking on tasks such as prospecting for large water-ice deposits, ISRO would have positioned itself as a key player in lunar research and demonstrated its technological prowess on an international stage.

Other Lunar Missions by India

• In addition to Chandrayaan-4, India is planning the Lunar Polar Explorer Mission (Lupex) in collaboration with Japan. This mission aims to land a rover on the Moon to perform crucial tasks, such as exploring polar regions and conducting scientific research.
• ISRO could have sought the Cabinet’s approval to undertake many of the critical tasks that the VIPER mission was expected to perform, particularly the prospecting for large water-ice deposits. Unfortunately, this opportunity was not pursued, which could have strengthened India’s position in the competitive landscape of lunar exploration and enhanced its reputation as a leader in space technology.

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Challenges Faced by ISRO

In recent years, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has made significant strides and established a strong reputation in space exploration. However, one pertinent challenge is ISRO’s inability to execute multiple flagship missions simultaneously. The organisation typically follows a “one major mission at a time” approach, which, while maximising resource efficiency, limits its ability to respond quickly to new opportunities. In contrast, countries like the United States and other major space-faring nations can undertake parallel missions to the Moon, Mars, the Sun, and beyond.

Recommendations for Improvement

To enhance ISRO’s capabilities and enable it to manage multiple projects concurrently, several steps can be taken:

• Increased Funding: The government should provide ISRO with more substantial funding to support its ambitious goals. This funding would facilitate the development of multiple missions at once and ensure the agency can stay competitive on the global stage.
• Expansion of Human Resources: ISRO needs to recruit more scientists and engineers. Increasing the workforce would help distribute the workload across various projects and allow for more specialised teams to tackle different challenges simultaneously.
• Infrastructure Development: Enhancing existing facilities and building new infrastructure is crucial for supporting parallel projects. Investments in laboratories, testing facilities, and launch capabilities will enable ISRO to scale its operations effectively.
• Collaborations with Other Nations: Engaging in more international collaborations can provide access to advanced technologies and expertise. By partnering with other countries, ISRO can leverage shared knowledge and resources to accelerate its projects.
• Capacity Building: If India aspires to become a world leader in space technology, it must focus on capacity building within ISRO. This involves not only expanding the workforce but also investing in training and development programs to cultivate a skilled and adaptable workforce capable of managing multiple missions.

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Conclusion

To position itself as a dominant player in the global space arena, ISRO must adapt its operational strategy to allow for the simultaneous execution of various projects. By increasing funding, expanding its workforce, enhancing infrastructure, fostering international collaborations, and focusing on capacity building, India can strengthen its space exploration initiatives and achieve its ambitions in this critical field.

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