9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – September 28th, 2023

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

The G-20’s screen over ‘mazdoors’, their rights

Source: The post is based on the article “The G-20’s screen over ‘mazdoors’, their rights” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- International relation- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

News: The author expresses concern that during the G-20 Summit, India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, prioritized political and diplomatic victories. However, the author feels that India missed the opportunity to address significant worker rights issues and the exploitation and forced labor conditions faced by millions of Indian workers, both domestically and in the Arab Gulf. This, in the author’s view, resulted in a neglect of discussions on essential workers’ welfare and rights.

Was the G-20 Summit a missed opportunity for worker rights?

Neglected Worker Rights Issues: Major worker rights and welfare concerns, especially pertaining to Indian workers in India and the Arab Gulf, were largely unaddressed.

Politicization of L20: The selection of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) over the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) for leading the L20 meetings resulted in the sidelining of critical worker concerns and a boycott by ITUC.

Forced Labour and Exploitation: There was no discussion on the prevalent forced labour and modern-day slavery affecting millions in India, with the Walk Free Foundation reporting 11 million trapped in such conditions in India alone.

Missed Discussions on Core Worker Issues: The Summit did not focus on essential worker rights and welfare topics like job creation, living wages, and decent working conditions, missing a chance to make impactful changes in workers’ lives.

How serious is the problem of forced labor and exploitation?

Problem in India:

Modern-Day Slavery: India has 11 million people, as reported by the Walk Free Foundation, in conditions resembling modern-day slavery.

Vulnerable Sectors: Workers in industries like textiles, brick kilns, shrimp farming, copper manufacturing, stone cutting, and plantations are particularly susceptible to forced labor and exploitation.

Informal Sector: Out of 530 million workers in India, 430 million are in the informal sector and are prone to different forms of exploitation.

Global Problem:

Exploitation in the Arab Gulf: Approximately nine million Indian workers are facing exploitative working conditions in the Arab Gulf under the kafala system.

Impacted Nations: Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates have been particularly highlighted, hosting millions of Indian workers under severe conditions.

Concern for G-20 Countries: The article emphasizes that such exploitative practices and the neglect of worker rights and welfare are global issues, affecting not just India but all G-20 nations, and hampering the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.

What are forced laborers?

Definition: Forced labor refers to work taken from a person under threat, without their voluntary consent.

Indicators: Situations like withholding wages, confiscating identity documents, or using threats and intimidation indicate forced labor.

Examples in India: Workers in Andhra Pradesh’s shrimp industry faced situations like unpaid overtime under threat, loan-based work obligations, and withholding of identity documents such as Aadhaar cards.

Impact: Such conditions result in workers being trapped, often facing physical, mental, or sexual threats, and working under inhumane conditions.

Nearly 69 lakh cancer deaths among Indian women were preventable: What a study says on gender and the disease

Source– The post is based on the article “Nearly 69 lakh cancer deaths among Indian women were preventable: What a study says on gender and the disease” published in “The Hindu” on 27th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Social Issues – Issues related to development and management of health

Relevance- Cancer among women

News– A new Lancet report highlights the issues of cancer among women.

What are some important revelations about the recent Lancet Commission report on gender disparities in cancer care, titled ‘Women, Power and Cancer,’?

It revealed that approximately 63% of premature cancer-related deaths in Indian women could have been prevented through risk reduction, screening, and early diagnosis. Furthermore, 37% of these deaths could have been avoided with timely and optimal treatment.

The report estimated that out of the 6.9 million cancer deaths among women in India, 4.03 million were preventable, and 2.87 million were treatable.

The report emphasised that despite men being at a higher risk of some cancers, cancer incidence and mortality among women in India remain alarmingly high.

Globally, women account for 48% of new cancer cases and 44% of cancer-related deaths. This disparity persists even for cancers in women, such as breast and cervical cancers, that are highly preventable and treatable.

What are the reasons behind the poorer outcomes for women?

Lancet report– It highlighted that women encounter difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate healthcare due to their limited knowledge, decision-making authority, financial resources, and the availability of services at the primary level near their homes.

women are more prone than men to lack the necessary knowledge and authority to make well-informed healthcare decisions.

Women are underrepresented in leadership roles face gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment and constitute the largest group of unpaid healthcare providers.

According to the report’s estimates, the unpaid caregiving services provided by women in the context of cancer care account for approximately 3.66% of India’s national health expenditure.

Societal issues- Breast and cervical cancer are the most common cancers in women, but many women hesitate to seek help from male doctors or even female doctors for genital examinations.

Logistical issues- The necessity of travelling to district hospitals, state capitals, or larger tertiary hospitals in other states for cancer screening, diagnostic tests, and treatment contributes to treatment delays.

What is the way forward?

Screening- Breast and cervical cancer are highly preventable and manageable. Women often seek medical attention at advanced stages of these diseases, even though both can be identified early through screening.

Monthly self-examinations of the breasts, annual clinical examinations by a physician, and yearly mammograms for women over 40 to monitor for breast cancer are useful.

There is a need for immediate consultation with a doctor if any lumps are detected during self-examination.

Women between the ages of 25 and 65 to undergo regular pap smear tests to detect precancerous changes in the cervix. HPV test, which identifies the human papillomavirus responsible for a majority of cervical cancers, can be conducted every five or ten years.

Awareness- It is necessary among the population, especially women, so they actively participate in cancer screening and seek medical attention.

HPV vaccination program– It will reduce the occurrence of common cancers in women. Vaccines against the human papillomavirus (HPV) are already available in the country, and an indigenous vaccine has also been developed.

Role of PHCs- Government’s screening programs at primary health centres and sub-centers can aid in early diagnosis.

For cervical cancer, treatment can be provided by nursing staff at primary health centres, like the practice in Bangladesh.

ASEAN’s China dilemma

Source– The post is based on the article “ASEAN’s China dilemma” published in “The Indian Express” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- International Relations – Regional and global groupings

News– During the recent ASEAN meeting, Indonesia successfully introduced new perspectives into often contentious ASEAN positions.

What was the approach of Indonesia on the Indo-Pacific during the ASEAN meeting?

Indonesia’s approach at the meeting involved an initiative to embrace the Indo-Pacific region. They organised the inaugural ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF).

In his AIPF address, President Widodo called for expanding the sphere of prosperity within ASEAN, recognizing that global economic growth was now primarily centred in the Indo-Pacific region.

Indonesian representatives made it clear that not only did they completely embrace the Indo-Pacific concept without excessive concern for China’s reaction. But they also adopted a functional approach to the Indo-Pacific.

This approach resembles the Quad’s cooperative stance on the Indo-Pacific, viewing it more as a collaborative endeavour than solely a strategic concept.

What is the approach of Indonesia towards Myanmar?

Indonesia incorporated the Five-Point Consensus (5PC). Indonesia didn’t appoint an individual as a special envoy but established an office for the special envoy, which allowed it to quietly engage with Myanmar.

Indonesia’s perspective on the 5PC has shifted from seeing it as a binding decision to viewing it as a facilitating initiative.

ASEAN collectively decided that Myanmar would not host the 2026 summit. In the past, ASEAN has used the privilege of hosting a summit as a means to address Myanmar’s actions.

How is China a challenge for ASEAN?

China represents the primary challenge for ASEAN, particularly concerning the rivalry between major powers in the region. China’s call for peace and prosperity implies a desire to prevent the US and China from displaying their rivalry within the region.

Progress on the code of conduct for the South China Sea (SCS) has been slow. There are differences over the interpretation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, especially in relation to China’s new standard map.

What are steps taken by ASEAN to counter these challenges?

ASEAN has embraced the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP), aimed at enhancing coordination among coast guards and conducting joint exercises among defence forces.

Under Indonesia’s chairmanship, there is a movement toward coordinated rules on how ASEAN should act when consensus is lacking, potentially leading to decision-making by a coalition of willing members.

Devotion Of Teacher X – Individual and national futures depend on math skills

Source: The post is based on the article “Devotion of Teacher X – Individual and national futures depend on math skills, which depend on good teacher training” published in The Times of India on 28^th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2 – Social Issues – Issues Related with Education

Relevance: concerns with math proficiency in India

News: India should be more worried about poor math skills than the United States because the ASER survey shows that the situation in India is grim.

What are the key highlights of the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER)?

According to ASER survey, only about 20% of Class III students in both government and private schools can do subtraction, and this percentage has remained consistently low for the past decade.

This is because India has not been participating in the Pisa competition, which makes it difficult to compare math skills globally.

In contrast, the US has participated in Pisa and its students score lower than those in 36 other education systems, with China having the highest score.

What can be done to enhance math skills?

India needs to learn from other countries to improve its math skills. For instance, Vietnam’s high Pisa scores are attributed to a strong focus on teacher training, which India should also prioritize.

India, like the United States, have risk of falling behind in terms of individual and national prosperity due to a weak math education system.

This is because the ability to adapt to technological advancements and the AI-driven job market relies heavily on one’s math skills.

Therefore, the quality of math education in both the US and India depends on the competence of teachers, so it is important to address this issue and improve math education at all levels.

GS PAPER - 3

Why are tigers dying in Nilgiris district?

Source: The post is based on the article “Why are tigers dying in Nilgiris district?” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Environment – Ecology and environment

News: This article discusses the concerning deaths of ten tigers, including cubs, in the Nilgiris since August. The reasons include factors like fighting, possible poisoning, and starvation. Officials are intensifying protection efforts, and conservationists express concern about rising tiger populations leading to increased human-animal conflicts. They also emphasize the need to restore degraded habitats.

What are the possible reasons for tiger deaths?

Starvation or Infection: Six cubs, believed to be two weeks old, possibly died due to starvation or umbilical infection.

Injuries from Fights: Several adult tigers were found dead with injury marks, suggesting deaths due to fights with other animals.

Poisoning: One larger male tiger is suspected to have been poisoned after consuming a poisoned carcass of a cow.

High Density of Tigers: The high density of tigers in the Mudumalai-Bandipur-Nagarhole complex is leading to more tigers moving to surrounding habitats, causing increased competition and more deaths.

Why are conservationists worried?

Concern for Missing Tigresses: Conservationists are worried about the inability to locate the mothers of the six dead cubs, raising concerns over their well-being.

Poaching Incidents: The arrest of four poachers from Rajasthan earlier in the year has heightened concerns over the safety of the tigers in the region.

Increased Human-Tiger Conflicts: The rise in tiger population in the Nilgiris Division raises fears of more negative human-animal interactions in the future.

Degraded Habitats: There’s a pressing need to regenerate degraded habitats for the tigers’ prey, as emphasized by conservationists, to ensure the well-being of the animals.

How are officials responding?

Establishing Anti-Poaching Camps: To combat potential poaching, officials are establishing anti-poaching camps in six forest ranges surrounding Mukurthi National Park.

Annual Monitoring: The forest department is initiating annual monitoring of tiger populations in the Nilgiris Forest Division, focusing on various parameters to facilitate better management.

Enhanced Patrolling: Officials have increased patrolling around key tiger habitats in Mukurthi and Mudumalai to safeguard the tigers and address concerns related to their well-being.

What does a drop in household financial savings imply for India?

Source– The post is based on the article “What does a drop in household financial savings imply for India?” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3 – Economy

Relevance- Issues related to savings and investment in the economy

News– The household financial savings data recently published in the latest issue of the RBI bulletin indicated that India’s net household financial savings rate had declined to only 5.1% of GDP in 2022-23, the lowest in decades.

What are the factors behind the decline in financial savings rate?

It can largely be attributed to an increase of around 2% of GDP in financial liabilities in 2022-23 compared to both 2021-22 and 2019-20.

The largest component of these liabilities by a considerable margin is bank loans. Borrowing from NBFCs comes in a distant second, followed by housing finance and insurance.

Between the years 2020-21 and 2022-23, there has been a substantial decrease in the proportion of household borrowing from banks. The share of borrowing for housing finance has also decreased during this period.

However, there has been a significant increase in the share of borrowing from NBFCs. It has surged from 2.4% in 2021-22 to 15.2% in 2022-23.

What can be inferred from decline in the financial savings rate?

The decrease in net household financial savings primarily reflects an increase in the financial obligations of the household sector.

This shift is a consequence of households moving away from borrowing from traditional banks, and seeking loans from non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).

Bank credit has experienced significant growth, a substantial portion of this expanded credit flow has been directed towards NBFCs, real estate, and personal loans rather than industrial purposes.

Furthermore, the non-performing asset ratios of both private and public sector commercial banks have notably improved.

It appears that there has been a substantial surge in the demand for loans from households. However, banks have adhered to strict lending criteria. These borrowers, who may not meet the stringent creditworthiness requirements, have turned to NBFCs.

As a result, banks have managed to clean up their balance sheets while transferring the associated risk to NBFCs.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that the overall risk exposure of the financial sector has not decreased. In fact, it has increased due to the rising indebtedness of the household sector.

Is there a substantial decrease in household savings rate?

The reduction in India’s net household financial savings rate does not signify an abrupt decline in either the household savings rate or the domestic savings rate.

In 2021-22, both rates stood at 19.7% and 30.2% of GDP, respectively. It is slightly higher than in 2019-20.

A savings rate of 30.2% also surpasses that of many other emerging market and developing economies. However, it falls short when compared to the rates achieved during most of the past two decades

Timeless quest- Bennu sample can help human understanding beyond the immediate

Source: The post is based on the article “Timeless quest- Bennu sample can help human understanding beyond the immediate” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Science and technology- Awareness in the fields of Space

News: This article discusses NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission, which collected rock samples from the ancient asteroid Bennu. The mission’s goals include studying the solar system’s history, understanding the origins of life, and learning how to prevent future asteroid collisions with Earth.

Why is Bennu significant?

Ancient Origins: Bennu settled into its present form and composition soon after the solar system’s formation, offering insight into our cosmic history.

Potential Earth Impact: Bennu could collide with Earth between 2178 and 2290, making it vital to study and devise prevention strategies.

Proximity to Earth: Bennu’s orbit brings it relatively close to Earth every six years, making it accessible for study

Carbonaceous Composition: It is a carbon-rich asteroid, offering insights into the solar system’s ingredients.

How does this mission contribute to science and safety?

Life’s Origin Exploration: The mission participates in the timeless quest to find out where life came from, by examining asteroids believed to have delivered life-forming compounds to Earth.

Impact Mitigation Technologies: Studying Bennu is pivotal for developing technologies and strategies to avoid its potential collision with Earth between 2178 and 2290.

Complementary Research: Working alongside Japan’s Hayabusa missions, it enriches global scientific understandings of asteroids, building a comprehensive view of our cosmic neighborhood.

Read more: OSIRIS-REx’s success, and Bennu’s gift of knowledge from the heavens

Drawing the line- Information aids public safety, and is not a trigger for panic

Source: The post is based on the article “Drawing the line- Information aids public safety, and is not a trigger for panic” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- disaster management

News: Article discusses land-subsidence in Joshimath, Uttarakhand due to infrastructure projects, causing safety concerns. Reports reveal non-compliance to building codes and highlight need for sustainable development, public risk information, and informed policymaking.

What do the technical reports say about the sinking of Joshimath?

Non-Compliance to Building Codes: The Central Building Research Institute revealed that 99% of construction in the region isn’t compliant with mandatory building codes, raising safety concerns.

Sensitive Geological Conditions: The reports emphasize the fragile geology of Uttarakhand, making it risky for city-like infrastructure projects.

Need for Monitoring: The National Institute of Hydrology highlighted the importance of monitoring springs, drainage systems, and areas of subsidence to understand their influence on land subsidence.

What are the recommendations for the future?

Adherence to Building Codes: The technical reports stress adherence to mandatory building codes to ensure structural safety in the unstable geology of the region.

Monitoring of Geological Aspects: Monitoring springs, drainage systems, and areas of subsidence is crucial to understand their influence on land subsidence.

Public Awareness and Information Dissemination: Information on risks should be widely disseminated, and the public should be made aware of the risks involved in the region.

Independent Scientific Counsel in Policymaking: The incorporation of advice from independent scientific counsel is essential to form policies that respect the geological limitations of the region.

Read more: Unseal And Pause- NDMA finding that Joshimath has overshot carrying capacity was expected

GDP doesn’t mean much for economy

Source– The post is based on the article “GDP doesn’t mean much for economy” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Indian Economy – Indian economy and growth

News– The article explains the issues of overemphasis on growth for measuring the economic well-being of the population.

What are issues related to overemphasis on GPP for measuring the economic well-being of the population?

Just last month, nearly 20 million families sought minimum wage employment through the MGNREGA.

This high MGNREGA demand reflects the economic hardship faced by Indian households.

Some segments perceive economic prosperity. It’s primarily a small, vocal segment of the population. This view is supported by factors like continuous stock market growth, the emergence of billion-dollar startup unicorns.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that this celebration is not representative of the vast majority of the population.

The concern isn’t just about the GDP data. It’s about the concept of GDP being treated as the ultimate measure of overall economic health.

The economic well-being of millions of Indians cannot be accurately captured by GDP metrics. For instance, a fully automated semiconductor manufacturing plant may boost GDP but won’t create substantial employment opportunities for low-skilled individuals.

Contrary to the conventional belief that high incomes for a few will benefit many, this trickle-down effect doesn’t happen.

What is the way forward?

There’s an urgent need for a fundamental shift in our economic discourse and narrative. This transformation must begin with political parties and their leaders, and it should be a bipartisan effort in the nation’s interest.

The focus should shift from headline GDP figures to labour market information. This should be the primary concern for the political leadership, rather than comparing GDP growth during different tenures.

Let us not resurrect the ghost of retro taxation

Source: The post is based on the article “Let us not resurrect the ghost of retro taxation” published in Live Mint on 28^th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Indian Economy – Growth & Development, Taxation

Relevance: concerns with high GST on online casinos and gaming platforms.

News: The government’s decision to impose 28% GST on online casinos and gaming platforms is having a devastating impact on the industry.

What are the issues involved?

Many companies are facing tax bills that are much higher than their revenue, and some are facing closure. It is also estimated that the industry could eventually owe around ₹1.5 trillion, including penalties.

The Indian government is demanding a huge amount of GST from online gaming companies, claiming that they have underpaid in the past. However, the companies argue that the government is applying the tax retrospectively, which is unfair.

Further, the government and online gaming industry are in a dispute over GST revenue definitions. Companies claim only their service fees are revenue, while the government insists the total customer wagers count as revenue.

Must Read: Online gaming and its regulations in India – Explained

What lies ahead?

Betting companies may have been interpreting tax rules in their favor. Since they were not licensed to hold public money, they should not have treated all inflows as revenues.

Further, their attempt to distance themselves from gambling and talk about gaming skills was also pointless, since their services are not essential.

However, the companies may have a case if the tax they are being asked to pay is found to be based on the new law passed this year. This is because it is not clear what the original law was, and they are being asked to settle past taxes.

Therefore, the government should be cautious in its arguments, as past incidents like the Vodafone case have shown that prioritizing revenue over principles can harm India’s business-friendly image.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

World Coffee Conference in Bengaluru from Sept 25 to 28

Source: The post is based on the article “World Coffee Conference in Bengaluru from Sept 25 to 28” published in “ Business Standard” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

Bengaluru is all set to host the 5th World Coffee Conference(WCC).

What is the World Coffee Conference(WCC)?

Organized by: International Coffee Organisation (ICO) in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Government of Karnataka.

Aim: To discuss, debate, and collaborate on building a sustainable coffee industry.

Theme: “Sustainability through the circular economy and regenerative agriculture” 

What is the International Coffee Organization(ICO)?

International Coffee Organization (ICO) was established in 1963 under the aegis of the United Nations and following the approval of the first International Coffee Agreement in 1962. 

The ICO is the only intergovernmental organization for coffee, bringing together exporting and importing Governments. 

It currently represents 93% of world coffee production and 63% of world consumption.

India is a member of this organization.

What is the Coffee Board of India?

Coffee Board is a statutory organization constituted under Section (4) of the Coffee Act, 1942.

It functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

The Board is headquartered in Bengaluru.

Coffee Production in India:

The most well-known species of coffee grown in India are Robusta and Arabica.Robusta coffee accounts for over 70% of coffee production.

In the year 2021-22, India was the 5th largest exporter of coffee in the world with a share of about 6% of global coffee exports.

Karnataka is the largest coffee producer in India, accounting for 70 per cent of total coffee production.It is followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Note: Globally, Brazil is the largest coffee-producing country in the world.

Social bonds explained as NABARD raises Rs 1,040 crore via its inaugural issue

Source: The post is based on the article “Social bonds explained as NABARD raises Rs 1,040 crore via its inaugural issue” published in “CNBC” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has issued its inaugural social bonds with a total size of Rs 1,040.50 crore.

What are Social Bonds?

A social bond is a type of financial instrument issued by governments, international organizations or corporations to raise funds for projects and initiatives that have a positive social impact on society.

These bonds are designed to finance projects that address various social issues, such as healthcare, education, affordable housing, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability.

First Social Bond: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) in Maharashtra’s Pune and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2020 co-created India’s inaugural Social Impact Bond(SIB).

What is Sustainability Bond Framework?

NABARD recently announced a Sustainability Bond Framework.

The framework seeks to finance and refinance new or existing eligible green and social projects.

Eligible social projects include affordable basic infrastructure, access to essential services, affordable housing, employment generation, food security, socioeconomic advancement, and empowerment.

Projects that promise energy efficiency including green buildings, energy storage, and smart grids, would also be eligible to get funding. 

WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit co-hosted by Ministry of Ayush adopted ecofriendly methods aimed at reducing carbon emissions

Source: The post is based on the article “WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit co-hosted by Ministry of Ayush adopted ecofriendly methods aimed at reducing carbon emissions” published in “PIB” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

The Ministry of Ayush has been adopting and propagating eco-friendly methods to reduce carbon emissions and environmental pollution aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The recently concluded WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat is an example of that.This summit helped in the reduction of approximately 72,960 Kg of CO2 equivalent emission.

What is the WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit?

Click Here to read

What are the eco-friendly methods adopted at the WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit?

Paperless Approach: The event was entirely paperless, reducing the need for printed materials and transportation emissions.

Biodegradable Badges: Delegates and participants wore biodegradable badges that could be planted, containing seeds (marigolds).

Biodegradable Cutlery: Biodegradable cutlery and glass bottles were used throughout the event.

Digital Signages: Signages at the airport were primarily digital, reducing the use of printed materials.

Wooden Exhibitions: 90% of the exhibition space was constructed using wood and featured real plants and reusable materials.

Online Platforms: All event and media documents were made available online, including brochures, flyers, information booklets, and conference updates.

Reduced Travel: The summit emphasized online presence, resulting in 6,046 online streams (live and recorded), significantly reducing the need for physical travel and carbon emissions.

STs trail non-STs in 81 health measures: 2021 study

Source: The post is based on the article “STs trail non-STs in 81 health measures: 2021 study” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

A recent study in ‘The Lancet Regional Health — Southeast Asia’ has analyzed health, nutrition, and population trends among Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India from 2016 to 2021 using data from National Family Health Surveys.

What are the key findings of the study?

Scheduled Tribes(STs) Population: According to the 2011 Census, there are over 104 million STs spread across 705 recognised ethnic groups.They make up 8.6% of India’s population.

Challenges faced by STs over non-STs: In 2021, the non-ST population outperformed the ST population in 81 out of 129 indicators.STs continued to face challenges, particularly concerning women’s status and major public health issues such as child malnutrition, anemia, insufficient vaccination coverage and disparities in fertility and mortality rates.For instance:

– Child Mortality: The child mortality rate for STs was alarmingly high, with 50 out of every 1,000 children not surviving to their fifth birthday.

– Child Malnutrition: Child malnutrition was a significant issue, with over 40% of ST children under five being stunted and underweight.

– High Blood Pressure: Between 2016 and 2021, there was a notable increase in high blood pressure levels among ST men and women aged 15–49, with increases of 7.5% and 8.9%, respectively.

Indicators in which STs outperformed non-STs: STs surpassed non-STs in indicators such as gender balance, gender balance at birth, use of family planning methods, consistent treatment during pregnancy and adherence to recommended breastfeeding practices. 

– Moreover, STs showed a reduced occurrence of diabetes and hypertension compared to non-STs.

 Improvements made by STs between 2016 to 2021: During this period, STs made progress in indicators such as:

– Sanitation Facilities: Access to improved sanitation facilities improved significantly, with a 30.4 percentage point increase from 2015–2016 to 2019–2021.

– Skilled Birth Attendance: More births were attended by skilled health personnel, increasing by 13 percentage points.

– Full Vaccination Coverage: Coverage for full vaccination among children aged 12–23 months increased by 18.6 points.

– Civil Birth Registration: Civil registration of births among STs also rose from 76% in 2016 to 88% in 2021, indicating better documentation and recognition of births within the community,

Green Ammonia Imported through VOC Port, Tamil Nadu for the first time

Source: The post is based on the article “Green Ammonia Imported through VOC Port, Tamil Nadu for the first time” published in “PIB” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

State-run V O Chidambaranar (VOC) Port located in Tamil Nadu has become the first port in India to handle green ammonia with the arrival of 20-inch tank containers loaded with the fuel from the Port of Damietta in Egypt.

What is Green Ammonia?

Ammonia is a pungent gas that is widely used to make agricultural fertilisers.Green ammonia production is where the process of making ammonia is 100% renewable and carbon-free.

Process: One way of making green ammonia is by using hydrogen from water electrolysis and nitrogen separated from the air.These are then fed into the Haber process (also known as Haber-Bosch), all powered by sustainable electricity. 

– In the Haber process, hydrogen and nitrogen are reacted together at high temperatures and pressures to produce ammonia, NH3. 

What are the uses of Green Ammonia?

Energy storage: Ammonia is easily stored in bulk as a liquid at modest pressures (10-15 bar) or refrigerated to -33°C. This makes it an ideal chemical store for renewable energy.

Zero-carbon fuel: Ammonia can be burnt in an engine or used in a fuel cell to produce electricity.When used, ammonia’s only by-products are water and nitrogen.The maritime industry is likely to be an early adopter, replacing the use of fuel oil in marine engines.

Direct usage of Green Ammonia in the fertilizer industry: Green Ammonia can directly replace Grey Ammonia currently used in fertilizer plants without requiring any changes to existing infrastructure.

Indian Navy to unveil ‘Swavlamban 2.0’ next week: Vice-Chief

Source: The post is based on the article “Indian Navy to unveil ‘Swavlamban 2.0’ next week: Vice-Chief” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

The Indian Navy will release its updated indigenisation roadmap called ‘Swavlamban 2.0’.

What is Swavlamban?

Swavlamban is the Naval Innovation & Indigenisation Organisation’s (NIIO) annual seminar.

The seminar aims to engage the Indian industry and academia in achieving ‘Self-reliance in Defence Sector’.

What is Naval Innovation & Indigenisation Organisation(NIIO)?

Click Here to read

What is the SPRINT Initiative?

SPRINT is a collaborative initiative being undertaken by Naval Innovation and Indigenisation (NIIO) in conjunction with the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO).

Full Form: SPRINT stands for Supporting Pole-Vaulting in R&D through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), NIIO and Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC).

Aim: To give a boost to the usage of indigenous technology in the Indian Navy.

As part of this initiative, Indian Navy aims to induct at least 75 new indigenous technologies/products into the Indian Navy. 

INDO-PACIFIC ARMIES CHIEFS CONFERENCE(IPACC)

Source: The post is based on the article “INDO-PACIFIC ARMIES CHIEFS CONFERENCE(IPACC)” published in “PIB” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

The Defence Minister delivered the inaugural address at the 13th Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs’ Conference(IPACC) in New Delhi.

What is the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs’ Conference(IPACC)?

Organized by: Indian Army with the US Army 

Aim: To provide an opportunity for the delegates to exchange ideas and views on security and other contemporary issues of mutual interest, with core efforts directed to promote ‘Peace and Stability’ in the Indo-Pacific region.

Participation: The conference witnessed participation from 30 countries. 18 countries were represented by Chiefs of their respective Armies and 12 countries were represented by Heads of Delegations. 

What are the key highlights from the Defence Minister’s address at the conference?

Importance of Indo Pacific region: The Indo-Pacific is no more a maritime construct, but a full-fledged geo-strategic construct, and the region is facing a complex web of security challenges, including boundary disputes & and piracy.

The Geo-Strategic Importance of the Indo-Pacific can be explained through a theoretical model by American author and speaker Mr Stephen R. Covey, which is based on two circles – ‘Circle of Concern’ and ‘Circle of Influence’.

– The ‘Circle of Concern’ encompasses everything one cares about, including things that can be controlled and things that cannot. It includes a wide range of external factors & issues such as global events, economic conditions, other people’s opinions, weather and many other aspects of life.

– The ‘Circle of Influence’ comprises things over which one has direct control or can exert some degree of influence.It may involve your attitudes, behaviors, decisions, relationships, and actions.

The Defence Minister applied this model to international relations.He highlighted that nations may have overlapping ‘Circles of Concern,’ which could lead to conflicts or cooperation.

– For example, International maritime trade routes passing through high seas beyond the Exclusive Economic Zones of any country is a relevant example.This concern was addressed through the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982.This agreement establishes the legal framework for maritime activities and addresses the issues arising from overlapping ‘circles of concern’ of different nations.

Similarly, states must identify and seek to expand their ‘Circle of Influence’ to promote national interests on the global stage.This may involve building partnerships, participating in regional organizations and employing diplomatic, economic or military tools strategically.

Gujarat turns over new leaf, bans invasive tree species: ‘Adverse impact’

Source: The post is based on the article “Gujarat turns over new leaf, bans invasive tree species: ‘Adverse impact’” published in “Indian Express” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

Gujarat Government has banned the planting of Conocarpus trees in both forest and non-forest areas due to their adverse impact on the environment and human health. 

Earlier, Telangana had also banned the Conocarpus Trees.

What are Conocarpus Trees? 

Conocarpus is an evergreen species with dark-green shiny leaves.They are fast-growing and can be trimmed into various shapes, making them an attractive choice. 

It is native to parts of North and South America, as well as parts of Africa.

These trees have been the popular choice in recent years for beautification of public spaces to residential societies and factories.

They are being grown as trees lining public roads as well as hedges along walkways in gardens and are amenable to be trimmed into various shapes.

However, Conocarpus trees have several adverse impacts.For instance:

Firstly, pollen from the trees have been found to trigger  health issues like cold, cough, asthma, and allergies. 

Secondly, conocarpus trees penetrate deep into the ground and extend horizontally.On several occasions, it has come to the notice of the authorities that their roots damage underground electricity cables, communication lines, drainage lines and drinking water pipes.

Thirdly, the conocarpus tree absorbs more water from soil than other species and is a threat to groundwater.

India ageing, elderly to make up 20% of population by 2050: UNFPA report

Source: The post is based on the article “India ageing, elderly to make up 20% of population by 2050: UNFPA report” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

The India Ageing Report 2023 has been released y by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS).

What is India Ageing Report 2023?

India Ageing Report 2023 represents a thorough review of the living conditions and welfare of older individuals in India. 

The report is based on the latest data available from the Longitudinal Ageing Survey in India (LASI), 2017–18, Census of India, Population Projections by the Government of India (2011–2036) and World Population Prospects 2022 by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

What are the key findings of the report?

Source: The Hindu

Elderly Population Growth: India’s elderly population is growing significantly, with a projected 41% increase in the decadal growth rate. By 2050, the share of elderly individuals in the total population is expected to double, reaching over 20%.

Elderly vs. Children: It is anticipated that by 2046, the elderly population will surpass the population of children (aged up to 15) in India.

Elderly Poverty: More than 40% of the elderly in India are in the poorest wealth quintile, and about 18.7% of them live without an income.This level of poverty may negatively impact their quality of life and healthcare utilization.

Aging Beyond 80: The report predicts a 279% growth in the population aged 80 and above between 2022 and 2050, with a predominance of widowed and highly dependent very old women.

Life expectancy: In India, a man aged 60 years can live another 18.3 years, while women can live 19 years. Apart from this, it also depends on the different life expectancy of the states. In Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, women can have up to 4 years more than men.

Sex Ratio Among the Elderly: The sex ratio among the elderly has been increasing since 1991, indicating more elderly women than men. 

– For instance, in 1991, there were 930 elderly women per 1,000 men.After this, the ratio started to change and will continue to do so.The report estimates that by 2031, there will be 951 men for 1,078 women.

Gendered Poverty: Poverty among the elderly is often gendered, with older women more likely to be widowed, living alone, without income, and dependent on family support.

Regional Variations: There are significant regional variations in the elderly population’s absolute levels and growth. Southern and select northern states have a higher share of the elderly population, while central and northeastern regions have younger populations.

What are the recommendations given by the report?

Special focus should be there on older persons in disaster-preparedness plans that are formulated henceforth.

There is a lack of credible data on various issues related to the elderly in India and more could be done by including questions on relevant and emerging issues related to older persons in the upcoming data collection exercises of the National Sample Survey, the National Family Health Survey, and the Census of India, respectively.

Government must work on increasing awareness about schemes for older persons, bring all Old Age Homes under regulatory purview and focus on facilitating in-situ ageing to the extent possible.

Government should encourage the creation and running of elderly self-help groups.

Government should also encourage in situ (at home) ageing as much as possible by creating short-term care facilities like creches or day-care facilities, citing better care when elderly people live with their respective families.