9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 1 March, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

Issue of Cheating in Exams in India: Challanges & Solutions

Source-This post on Cheating scandals in India Challanges & Solutions has been created based on the article “Leaked papers and cheating scandals: How to fix India’s exams” published in “The Indian Express” on 1 March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus–GS Paper 2- Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education.

News – The article discusses the employment of unfair means in examination process in India and how can it be minimized. Issue of Cheating in Exams in India

Background – UP government has ordered the cancellation of the UP Police Constable Recruitment Examination-2023 after allegations of paper leak.

What are the provisions of The Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act?

The act imposes severe penalties on persons resorting to unfair means.They will be imprisoned for not less than 3 years whereas the service providers (who conduct the exam on behalf of the government) are liable for fines upto Rs 1 crore, apart from prison sentences.

A detailed article on Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill 2024 can be read here.

What is the limitation of statutory measures taken by government?

1) Low conviction rate-Many states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, UP, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, AP and Odisha have legislation that criminalizes cheating.However,there have been no convictions so far under these Acts.

What are the challenges in conducting exams in India?

1) Off-line examination: –

a) Logistical Issue-There are loopholes in setting question papers and their printing and transport to examination canters.

b) Lack of auditing-These processes are not audited by any knowledgeable agency.

2) Online examination: –

a) Lack of effective evaluation-The authorities have started outsourcing the conduct of online exams to service providers. The technology provided by them is not adequately tested.

b) Vulnerability to cyber-attack-There is inadequate knowledge or expertise in the government machinery to test the robustness of the IT systems being deployed. This leaves the system vulnerable to hackers and organized cyber criminals.

 

Read More UPSC Topics-

Electronic evidence rules – E-evidence, new criminal law, its implementation

GAGANYAAN- Indian Human Spaceflight Programme.

 

What is the way forward?

1) Diminish the importance of exams– There are high premiums like social recognition and rewards attached with qualification of exams, so there is a need to reduce the importance of the examination itself. This will discourage cheating in examinations. For ex-admissions into the best foreign universities take the qualifying exam scores as just one of the inputs to decide the candidature of students.

2) Dedicated investigating body– There is a need to create a special investigation agency that has the power to investigate all types of examination offences and quickly bring culprits to justice.

Question for practice

Discuss the challenges and implications of the current examination system for students in India?

Issue of patent and proprietary medicine in India – Lure of a magic cure

 

Source-This post on Issue of patent and proprietary medicine in India has been created based on the article “Patanjali controversy and the lure of a magic cure: Safety standards dangerously fail consumers” published in “Indian Express” on 1 March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus – GS Paper 2 – Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education.

News – The article highlights the lack of safety standards for Ayurvedic medicines and the issue of misleading advertisements. Issue of patent and proprietary medicine in India – Lure of a magic cure

Background – The Supreme court has criticized Patanjali Ayurveda, for making misleading claims in advertisements about its products curing diseases.

What is the difference between classical and patent and proprietary medicine?

The difference between classical medicine and patent and proprietary medicine is explained in Drugs and Cosmetics (D&C) Act.

1) Classical ASU medicine-It refers to drugs that are manufactured strictly in accordance with the authoritative ancient texts (granthas or samhitas) listed under the D&C Act.

2) Patent and Proprietary (P&P) medicine-It refers to manufacture of ASU drugs by modifying the classical recipe and introducing new combinations. Patanjali and several other companies have been proactively promoting their Patent and Proprietary (P&P) drugs.

Read more- Perils of misleading advertisements

What are the regulations regarding Patent Proprietary (P&P) drugs?

1) Advertising drugs intended to treat or cure certain diseases is prohibited under Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act 1954, which applies to all systems of medicine.

2) Drug manufactures have to follow the Good Clinical Practice Guidelines issued by the Ministry of Ayush. This is done to document evidence of safe and effective use.

3) To obtain a manufacturing license, citing scientific sources is essential and if unavailable, pre-clinical or clinical trials are required to be produced.

4) The Ayush Ministry had mandated the registration of all medical research projects with the Indian Council of Medical Research’s CTRI — Clinical Trials Registry of India database without distinction between allopathic or ASU (Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani) research.

What are the issues associated with the regulation of Patent and Proprietary (P&P) drugs?

1) Limitation of Drugs and Magic Remedies Act– It does not have the power to check the license of products, to check if the products are evidence based or not.

2) Misconception in minds of consumers– The consumer assumes that all ASU products are natural and consequently safe. Attracted by advertisements, consumer purchases P&P medicine over the counter without consulting any Vaidya or medical practitioner.

3) No requirement of license-Unlike allopathic drugs, selling ASU medicine requires no sale license and all pharmacists, and even general stores and groceries, can sell these drugs without any knowledge of the drug use and dosage.

4) Lax implementation by state drug controllers– The two Drug Acts are not administered properly by state drug controllers due to vacancies or mishandling by non-qualified persons.

 

Read More UPSC Topics-

Perils of misleading advertisements

Threats posed by Artificial intelligence

 

What should be the way forward?

The country needs a unified structure and system for regulating and administering the licensing, manufacture, sale, and drug advertising of ASU drugs.

Question for practice

Highlight the issues in regulation of Ayurvedic drugs? What steps can be taken to address the issue?

Misleading Medical Advertising-Strong medicine

Source: The post misleading medical advertising has been created, based on the article “Strong medicine: Patanjali ad ban is the right remedy” published in “ Business Standard” on 1st March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-governance- Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.

News: The Supreme Court of India has stopped Patanjali Ayurved from advertising its products due to misleading claims. The company’s leaders, Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, received contempt notices for ignoring previous warnings. Misleading Medical Advertising

What is the impact of misleading medical advertising?

Public Misinformation: Misleading medical ads, like Patanjali’s claims against allopathic medicine, spread misinformation. This can lead to public mistrust in scientifically proven treatments.

Risk to Health: People believing in untested herbal remedies, as promoted by Patanjali, might ignore effective medical treatments. This poses a significant health risk.

Economic Impact: Vulnerable populations, especially those struggling with medical expenses, might opt for cheaper, unproven alternatives, potentially wasting money and risking health.

Regulatory Challenges: The case highlights gaps in regulation. For instance, ayurvedic products don’t need pre-approval for advertising, unlike allopathic medicines, allowing such misleading claims to be made.

What are the legal provisions to counter misleading medical advertising?

Drugs and Other Magical Remedies Act (DOMA), 1954: This act prohibits misleading ads in medicine. Violations can lead to six months in jail or a fine, with harsher penalties for repeat offenses.

Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Under this act, misleading ads can result in up to two years in prison and a fine of up to 10 lakh rupees. Repeat offenses attract up to five years’ imprisonment and a higher fine.

For more information on Consumer Protection Act, 2019 read here

What should be done?

Stricter Regulation: Implement tougher rules for advertising both ayurvedic and over-the-counter allopathic drugs to prevent misleading claims.

Closing Legal Loopholes: Address gaps in current laws, like DOMA not recognizing a list of OTC drugs, to reduce the risk of misleading ads.

Government Oversight: Increase government intervention in monitoring and regulating medical advertisements, as exemplified by the Supreme Court criticizing the government’s inaction in the Patanjali case.

Public Awareness: Enhance public education about scientifically proven treatments to combat the influence of misleading advertisements.

Question for practice

Discuss the impact of misleading medical advertising and the legal provisions to counter it, as well as suggested measures to address the issue.

Common challenges in the Ukraine and Middle East conflicts- There’s a lesson for India in the wars going on overseas

Source: The post common challenges in the Ukraine and Middle East conflicts has been created, based on the article “There’s a lesson for India in the wars going on overseas” published in “Live mints” on 1st March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-International relation-Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests,

News: The article discusses how Europe struggles to respond to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. It highlights the challenges and the lack of clear strategy in both conflicts. Ukraine and Middle East Conflict

What is the Western countries’ response to the Russia-Ukrainian war?

Russia’s gains in the war increase pressure on the West to support Ukraine.

Western countries, including the US, UK, and Germany, are against sending troops to Ukraine. They prefer providing military aid, such as weapons and ammunition, to support Ukrainian forces.

Germany and other European countries are also not in favor of sending troops to Ukraine.

Internal disagreements in the West, like Hungary blocking a support statement, show a lack of consensus.

How is the war unfolding in the Middle East?

Nature of the conflict and military actions: The conflict began with Israel’s military action in Gaza after Hamas’s attacks, killing about 1,200 in southern Israel. This led to major destruction and a humanitarian crisis. Israel’s efforts have not significantly weakened Hamas.Moreover, Israel is currently under pressure to not attack Rafah, a key Hamas area (1.5 million Palestinians taking shelter).

Political and international pressure: Amidst the ongoing conflict, there is a notable absence of a coherent Israeli strategy for the governance and reconstruction of Gaza. This situation is further complicated by the multiple threats Israel faces, including those from Hezbollah and Iranian proxies in the region. Adding to the complexity, the Biden administration in the United States is exerting political pressure on Israel, urging restraint in its military actions to avoid further escalation of the conflict and the humanitarian crisis.

What are the common challenges in the Ukraine and Middle East conflicts?

Dependence on External Support: Both Ukraine and Israel heavily rely on external aid. Ukraine receives military aid from the West, while Israel’s strategy also depends on support from allies.

Strategic Alignment Difficulties: Aligning military goals with available resources and strategies is a challenge. For instance, the US and Europe struggle to form a consensus on aiding Ukraine, and Israel lacks a clear plan for Gaza’s future.

Information as a War Tool: In both conflicts, information is crucial for influencing public opinion and political decisions.

Aversion to Casualties in the West: Western societies’ reluctance to endure casualties affects their support and strategies in these conflicts. This is evident in the reluctance of Western countries to send troops to Ukraine.

Pressure for Sustainable Outcomes: Both Ukraine and Israel face challenges in achieving long-term, stable political and military outcomes. This includes the internal and external pressures to resolve conflicts while minimizing further escalation and harm.

 

Read More UPSC Topics-

Genome India Project

Capital expenditure in India- THE PUBLIC SECTOR GAP In Centre’s CAPEX Spree

 

Way forward

The way forward involves building a coherent strategy for conflict resolution. This includes the West forming a unified stance on supporting Ukraine and Israel devising a clear plan for Gaza. Additionally, leveraging diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions and promote sustainable peace solutions is crucial.

Question for practice:

Examine the common challenges faced by Western countries in responding to the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Electronic evidence rules – E-evidence, new criminal law, its implementation

Source: The post electronic evidence rules has been created, based on the article “E-evidence, new criminal law, its implementation” published in “The Hindu” on 1st March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- governance-Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

News: The article discusses changes in India’s criminal laws, focusing on new rules for electronic records and evidence. It explains the updated definitions, admissibility, and requirements for electronic evidence under the new laws, and mentions the challenges these changes pose for law enforcement and legal processes.

What are the new criminal laws in India?

India is introducing three new criminal laws: the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (replacing the Indian Penal Code), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (replacing the Code of Criminal Procedure), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (replacing the Indian Evidence Act). These laws will be effective from July 1, 2024.

For information on new criminal laws in India read Article1, Article2

What changes have been made in electronic evidence rules?

Definition of Electronic Records: Electronic records now include a wide range of digital data such as emails, server logs, documents on electronic devices, messages, websites, and digital voice mails.

Primary Evidence Rule: All copies of a video recording stored and transmitted electronically are considered primary evidence. This helps in proving cyber-crimes even if the original record is destroyed.

Admissibility of Electronic Records: Following the Supreme Court’s guidelines, a special certificate is required for electronic records to be admitted in court (Under the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam,). This certificate must be signed by two individuals: the person managing the device and an expert.

What are the judicial views on electronic evidence rules?

Mandatory Certificate: The Supreme Court judgment in Arjun Panditrao Khotkar vs Kailash Kushanrao Gorantyal & Ors. (2020) requires a certificate under Section 65-B (4) of the Indian Evidence Act (now Section 63(4) in the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam) for the admissibility of electronic records.

Curable Defect: Non-submission of the certificate in time is considered a curable defect. Courts may allow its later submission without prejudicing the trial.

Impossibility Principle: The Court’s view that if it is impossible to produce the required certificate, the court may excuse this requirement, recognizing the practical difficulties in obtaining the certificate.

What are the challenges in enforcing electronic evidence rules?

Insufficient Manpower and Resources: Many cyber labs may not have enough staff or are not notified under the IT Act to provide expert opinions on electronic records.

Complexity in Handling Vast Data: With the ubiquity of smartphones in crimes, the volume of data needing certification is enormous, posing logistical challenges.

Timing of Expert Certification: The article suggests that requiring expert certification for every case could be excessive, proposing its necessity only when the integrity of the electronic record is disputed.

Way forward

To effectively implement the new electronic evidence rules, a dual approach is needed: firstly, enhancing the capacity and resources of cyber laboratories, and secondly, initiating widespread training and awareness programs about encryption and electronic record handling, especially for private entities using electronic security systems. This will ensure smoother enforcement and compliance with the updated legal framework.

Question for practice:

Examine the significance of the mandatory certificate requirement for electronic records admissibility under India’s new criminal laws, considering judicial views and the challenges encountered in enforcing this rule.

GS PAPER - 3

Informal waste picker: Indispensable but invisible part of workforce

Source-This post on Informal waste picker: Indispensable but invisible part of workforce has been created based on the article “Understanding the world of the informal waste picker” published in “The Hindu” on 28 February 2024.

UPSC Syllabus–GS Paper 3– Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment. GS paper 1- Poverty and Developmental issues, Urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

News-The article highlights the exclusion and marginalization of informal waste pickers.

What is the definition of Informal Waste Management Sector?

As per The International Labour Organization, they are individuals or small and micro-enterprises that intervene in waste management without being registered. They are not formally charged for providing waste management services.

What is the percentage of informal waste pickers in India’s workforce?

There are no reliable estimates of informal waste pickers in India. However, as per the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2017-18, India has nearly 1.5 million waste pickers in its urban workforce. The workforce usually consists of women, children and the elderly, who are often disabled, are the poorest of the urban poor, and face violence and sexual harassment.

Globally, this sector employs about 0.5%–2% of the urban population.

A detailed article on “Waste Management in India: Status, Challenges and Solutions” can be read here.

What are the challenges faced by informal waste pickers in India?

1) Lack of data-There is no reliable data on exact participation of informal waste pickers in India’s workforce. This prevents their integration into the formal economy.

2) Lack of recognition-They are not recognized and acknowledged by society for their work. Although, they play an important role in sustainable urban waste management.

3) Neglect of health-They live near dumpsites and work under unhygienic and unhealthy conditions. This leads to dermatological and respiratory health issues apart from regular injuries.

4) Social Discrimination-They are treated as dirty and unwanted elements of society, and they have to deal with exploitative social behaviour.

5) Loss of employment due to Private sector participation- As per Alliance of Indian Waste Pickers (AIW) 2023 report, private actors use expensive machinery and offers competitive rates to waste generators such as households and businesses.
This deprives the informal pickers of their employment and forces them into hazardous waste picking.

6) Extended Producer Responsibility– According to report of Women in Informal Employment: Globalizing and Organizing (WIEGO), it redirects waste away from the informal sector. This leads to large-scale unemployment of informal waste pickers.

What should be the way forward?

1) Plastic treaty– This is a UN endorsed resolution to end plastic pollution.However,it must ensure that employment of informal waste pickers is not endangered.

2) Reforms in EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility)-EPR guidelines should prioritize the welfare of informal waste pickers. This will be a win-win situation as waste pickers possess traditional knowledge around handling waste and this knowledge can be utilized to strengthen EPR.

Question for practice

Highlight the challenges faced by informal waste pickers in India. What steps can be taken to ensure their welfare?

Roles AI play in protecting democracy- There’s also a positive side of Al that can strengthen democracy

Source: The post roles AI play in protecting democracy has been created, based on the article “There’s also a positive side of Al that can strengthen democracy” published in “Live mints” on 1st March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-Science and technology- Artificial intelligent

News: The article discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) can both harm and help democracy, especially during elections. Roles AI Play in Protecting Democracy

How has AI impacted elections?

Negative Impact of AI on Elections

Deepfakes have been used to spread misinformation, affecting public opinion and outcomes. Examples include a fake video in Bangladesh showing a leader opposing Palestinian support, and a fake audio in the US of President Biden discouraging voting.

Positive Impact of AI on Elections

AI can improve election transparency and efficiency by detecting fraud and enhancing voting security. In Pakistan, AI-generated videos of Imran Khan led to high voter turnout and success for his party, despite his imprisonment.

What positive roles can AI play in protecting democracy?

Monitoring for Election Fraud: AI can scrutinize election-related data in real time, detecting any signs of fraudulent activities. It’s capable of identifying unusual patterns in voter registrations and ballot submissions, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of elections.

Cost-Effective Campaigning for Less-Wealthy Candidates: Generative AI (GenAI) has the capability to create campaign materials at a significantly lower cost and with greater efficiency. This aspect of AI can level the playing field in elections by empowering candidates with fewer financial resources, allowing them to reach a wider audience without the need for a large campaign budget.

Enhancing Voter Education: AI can tailor educational content about candidates and local issues to individual voters, using their local dialects. This personalization can increase political awareness and promote more informed voting decisions, benefiting particularly marginalized communities.

Assisting Voters with Disabilities: AI technologies, like voice recognition systems, can aid voters with disabilities, such as those who are visually impaired, making the voting process more accessible and inclusive.

Streamlining Election Logistics: AI can optimize the logistics of elections, making processes like voter registration and verification more efficient. This is especially beneficial in large countries, where managing large-scale elections can be logistically challenging.

 

Read More UPSC Topics-

Indian recruitment in conflict zones- Lives and livelihoods

Early childhood education- The economic case for investing in India’s children

 

 

Way forward

To safeguard democracy, it’s vital to balance AI’s potential for disruption with its ability to enhance elections. Implementing measures to counteract deepfakes and misinformation, while harnessing AI for voter education, fraud detection, and increased accessibility, can strengthen democratic processes as evidenced in Pakistan’s recent elections.

Question for practice:

Discuss how AI can both harm and help democracy, particularly in the context of elections, and provide examples of its negative and positive impacts.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Cross-voting in Rajya Sabha elections

Source-This post on Cross-voting in Rajya Sabha elections is based on the article “On cross-voting in Rajya Sabha elections | Explained” published in “The Hindu” on 29th February 2024.

Why in the News?

The recent Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Karnataka saw MLAs from various parties engaging in cross-voting. This has sparked concerns regarding the integrity of the election process. Cross-voting in Rajya Sabha elections

How are Rajya Sabha elections held?

1. Constitutional Provision: According to Article 80 of the Constitution, Rajya Sabha representatives from each State are indirectly elected by the elected members of their Legislative Assembly.

2. Historical background– Before 1998, the outcome of Rajya Sabha elections were usually a foregone conclusion, as the candidates were nominated by various parties in accordance to their strength in the Assembly. Hence, they used to be elected unopposed. However, the June 1998 elections in Maharashtra saw cross-voting, breaking this tradition.

Legal provisions and precedent for curbing cross voting

1. Open Ballot system:
a. To prevent MLAs from cross-voting, an amendment to Section 59 of Representation of the People Act, 1951 was made in 2003. This amendment introduced open ballot voting in Rajya Sabha elections.
b. MLAs from political parties must display their ballot papers to their party’s authorized agent. Failure to do so or showing it to anyone else will invalidate the vote. Independent MLAs cannot show their ballots to anyone.

2. Tenth Schedule:
a. It introduced in 1985.
b. This schedule states that if a member of a Parliament or State legislature voluntarily leaves their political party or votes against their party’s instructions, they can be disqualified from the House. However it does not apply to Rajya Sabha elections

Read more– Tenth Schedule

3. SC Court Rulings:
a. The Supreme Court in Kuldip Nayar versus Union of India (2006), upheld the system of open ballot for Rajya Sabha elections.
b. In the same case, the court also decided that a political party’s elected MLA would not be disqualified under the Tenth Schedule for voting against their party candidate. They might face disciplinary action from their party at most.

UPSC Syllabus- Polity and Nation (Bills and Acts)

Melanochlamys droupadi: Sea slug named after President Murmu

Source-This post on Melanochlamys droupadi: Sea slug named after President Murmu is based on the article “ZSI names a newly discovered head-shield sea slug after President Droupadi Murmu” published in “The Hindu” on 1st March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has announced the discovery of a new marine species of head-shield sea slug. It has been named as Melanochlamys droupadi after the President of India, Droupadi Murmu.

About Melanochlamys droupadi

1. Place of Discovery– It was discovered from Digha of West Bengal coast and Udaipur of Odisha coast.

2. Distinct Feature– It is characterized by a short, blunt and cylindrical body and a smooth dorsal surface with two dorsal equal or unequal shield.

3. Physical attributes:
a. It’s a tiny brownish-black invertebrate, measuring up to 7 mm long, with a ruby red spot at its rear.
b. It has a shell inside its body, and is a hermaphrodite (organisms possesses both male and female reproductive organs).

4. Reproduction– They reproduce between November and January.

5. Habitat– These species are typically found along the intertidal zone, leaving crawl marks on sandy beaches.

6. Distribution– Species of the genus Melanochlamys are primarily found in temperate regions of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, but three species are truly tropical: Melanochlamys papillata from the Gulf of Thailand, Melanochlamys bengalensis from West Bengal and Odisha coasts, and the current species (Melanochlamys droupadi).

What is Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)?

1. About:
a. It is a subordinate organization of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Govt. of India.
b. It is a national center for surveying and exploring fauna to advance knowledge about the country’s diverse wildlife.

2. Established– It was established in 1916 as a national centre for faunistic survey and exploration of the resources.

3. Headquarters– Kolkata.

UPSC Syllabus- Environment (Species in news)

Lancet study on Global Obesity rates

Source-This post on Lancet study on Global Obesity rates is based on the article “Obesity rates going up across the world: Lancet study” published in “The Hindu” on 29th February 2024.

Why in the News?

According to Lancet study on Global Obesity rates, the obesity rates among children and adolescents worldwide have increased four times from 1990 to 2022. Meanwhile, obesity rates among adults have more than doubled.

What are the key findings of the Study?

Study conducted by– NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).

Note– NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC) is a global network of health scientists offering thorough and prompt data on risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs)

Worldwide Figures– More than one billion people worldwide are living with obesity. Specifically, in 2022, there were 159 million children and adolescents, as well as 879 million adults, who were obese.

India’s findings

1. Children and adolescents– The obesity rate for girls rose from 0.1% in 1990 to 3.1% in 2022, while for boys, it increased from 0.1% to 3.9%.

Note– In terms of obesity rates among girls and boys, India ranked 174th globally in 2022.

2. Adults– Among women, the obesity rate surged from 1.2% in 1990 to 9.8% in 2022, while among men, it rose from 0.5% to 5.4%.

Methodology used:
a. More than 1,500 researchers from 190+ countries analyzed weight and height data from over 220 million individuals aged five and older.
b. They used body mass index (BMI) to study global changes in obesity and underweight from 1990 to 2022.

Significance of the study:
a. This discovery is important given India’s existing high rates of non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, strokes, and diabetes.
b. Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing these diseases, including Type 2 diabetes in teenagers, at an early age.

Note– Obesity, as per the World Health Organization (WHO), refers to an excessive accumulation of fat that can be harmful to health. A body mass index (BMI) over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is classified as obese.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices/Science & Technology

India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell ferry

Source-This post on India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell ferry is based on the article “PM Modi launches hydrogen-powered ferry: features, significance” published in “The Indian Express” on 1st March 2024.

Why in the News?

Prime Minster recently launched India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell ferry. It was manufactured by the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) under the Harit Nauka initiative.

What are its key features?

1. Design– It is a 24-meter catamaran which can accommodate 50 people in its air-conditioned passenger area. The accommodation is made of high-quality fiberglass reinforced plastic, resembling metro train coaches.

2. Propulsion– This boat uses a 50-kilowatt PEM (proton-exchange membrane) fuel cell along with Lithium-Ion Phosphate batteries. PEM fuel cells have the advantage of quickly adjusting their output to match power demands.

3. Energy Source– This boat has five hydrogen cylinders that hold 40kg of hydrogen, providing support for eight hours of operations. Additionally, the vessel is equipped with a 3-kilowatt solar panel.

Note– A hydrogen fuel cell creates electricity using the chemical energy in hydrogen and only emits pure water, without releasing pollutants.

4. Indigenous components– CSL developed the vessel automation system and power management system. The hydrogen fuel cell system was developed by KPIT Technologies, Pune, in collaboration with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Labs.

5. Significance:
a. Environment Friendly– It produces zero emissions or noise, and it is energy-efficient. It will also make urban mobility smooth and easy.
b. Low maintenance cost– Since it has no moving parts, the ferry needs less maintenance than combustion vessels.

Harit Nauka Initiative: 1. In January 2024, the shipping ministry unveiled the Harit Nauka guidelines for inland vessels. 2. According to the guidelines, all states must aim to use green fuels for 50% of inland waterways passenger fleets within the next decade and 100% by 2045. 3. This aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions according to the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology

Report on Status of Leopard in India

Source-This post on Report on Status of Leopard in India is based on the article “Leopard numbers show 8% rise from 2018 to 2022” published in “The Hindu” on 29th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, the Environment Ministry, in collaboration with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), unveiled the fifth cycle of leopard population estimation in India.

Key findings of the Fifth cycle of leopard population estimation in India

1. Population Estimate:
a. India’s leopard population is estimated at 13,874, showing stability compared to the previous count. The numbers rose by 8% from 12,852 in 2018 to 13,874 in 2022.
b. However, this only covers 70% of leopard habitat, with the Himalayas and semi-arid regions not included in the survey.

2. Region-wise Trends– In Central India, the leopard population remains stable or shows slight growth, whereas in the Shivalik hills and Gangetic plains, there is a decline in population.

3. State-wise distribution:
a. The highest number of leopards were reported in Madhya Pradesh (3,907), followed by Maharashtra (1,985), Karnataka (1,879) and Tamil Nadu (1,070).
b. The tiger reserves or locations with the highest leopard populations include Nagarajunasagar Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh, followed by Panna and Satpura in Madhya Pradesh.

4. Survey Methodology– The study targeted forested habitats across 18 states with tiger populations, employing foot surveys and camera traps. It captured over 4,70,81,881 photographs, resulting in 85,488 images of leopards.

About Leopard

Habitat: In India, the leopard is found in all forest types, from tropical rainforests to temperate deciduous and alpine coniferous forests. It is also found in dry scrubs and grasslands, the only exception being deserts and the mangroves of Sundarbans.

UPSC Syllabus- Environment (Species in news)/Reports & Indices

Ecocide- Belgium recognizes ‘ecocide’ as both national and international crime

Source-This post on Ecocide- Belgium recognizes ‘ecocide’ as both national and international crime is based on the article “Cockpit of Europe: Belgium leads continent in becoming first to recognise ‘ecocide’ as crime” published in “DownToEarth” on 27th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Belgium, known as Europe’s cockpit, has become the first in the European Continent to recognise ‘ecocide’ as both a national and international crime.

What is Ecocide?

1. About– Ecocide means significant harm or destruction to ecosystems, often caused by humans.

2. Commonly cited examples- Deforestation during the Vietnam War, the destruction of the environment during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, deforestation in Indonesia and the Amazon rainforest, oil pollution in the Niger Delta and the Chernobyl disaster.

3. Legal restriction– There is currently no international law prohibiting ecocide during peacetime; however, the Rome Statute criminalizes it.

4. The term ‘ecocide’ was popularized by Olof Palme when he accused the United States of ecocide at the 1972 UN Conference on the Human Environment.

Read more– Global push for recognising environmental destruction a crime

About Belgium

1. Location– It is a nation located in Northwestern Europe.

2. Borders– Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France, and the North Sea.

3. Regions– Belgium is renowned for its complex institutional structure, which is divided into three autonomous regions.
a. Flanders
b. Wallonia
c. Brussels-Capital Region

4. Population diversity– Belgium has two primary linguistic groups:
a. The Flemish Community, accounting for roughly 60 percent of the population
b. The French Community, comprising around 40 percent.
Note– There’s also a small German-speaking Community, making up about one percent of the population in the East Cantons.

5. International Affiliation:
a. It is a founding member of the European Union, Eurozone, NATO, OECD, and WTO.
b. It capital Brussels serves as the de facto capital of the European Union and and host the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) headquarters.

UPSC Syllabus- Geography and Places in news/Environment

Haemophilia A

Source-This post on Haemophilia A is based on the article “India conducted 1st human clinical trials for ‘haemophilia A’ gene therapy: Science and Technology minister” published in “The Indian Express” on 28th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, India has conducted the first human clinical trial of gene therapy for ‘haemophilia A’ at Christian Medical College – Vellore.

What is Haemophilia A?

1. About– It is a genetic bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in clotting factor VIII (blood-clotting protein), which is necessary for blood clotting.

2. Sex-linked:
a. It is a sex-linked disorder determined by the X and Y chromosomes. The gene for hemophilia is found on the X chromosome.
b. Hemophilia is much more common in males than in females.

3. Symptoms– Prolonged bleeding after injuries, surgeries, or spontaneous bleeding into muscles and joints.

4. Treatment: 
a. It includes replacement therapy, where clotting factor concentrates are infused into the bloodstream to assist blood clotting.
b. Other treatments may involve medications to encourage clotting or surgery to mend bleeding-related damage.

Most common types of Hemophilia : 1. Hemophilia A (Classic Hemophilia)– This type is caused by a lack or decrease of clotting factor VIII. 2. Hemophilia B (Christmas Disease)– This type is caused by a lack or decrease of clotting factor IX.

What is a Gene therapy?

1. Gene therapy is the introduction, removal or change in genetic material (typically means DNA and RNA) in the cells of a patient to treat an inherited or developed disease.

2. Gene therapy replaces a faulty gene or adds a new gene in an attempt to cure disease or improve human body’s ability to fight disease.

Read more– Gene therapy

UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology

Roen olmi mushroom

Source-This post on Roen olmi mushroom is based on the article “Turning mushrooms into gold? Goa researchers claim breakthrough in producing nanoparticles” published in “The Indian Express” on 28th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Researchers in Goa have claimed to have synthesized gold nanoparticles from the Roen olmi mushroom. It is a wild mushroom species that is widely consumed as a delicacy in the coastal state.

What is Roen olmi mushroom?

1. About:
a. It is a mushroom of the Termitomyces species.
b. It grows on termite hills and is called ‘roen olmi‘ in Goa.
c. It is a wild mushroom loved by Goans and eaten during the monsoons.

2. Association with Termites– These mushrooms rely solely on their association with termites for growth and cannot exist independently.
a. Termites provide mushrooms the organic material they need to grow.
b. Termites eat them to obtain enzymes and nitrogen.

3. Habitat– It is found only in the Western Ghats, where the dense forests and high humidity create perfect breeding conditions

4. Significance– It is crucial as a strong decomposing fungus in forests and grasslands, turning 50% of dead plant material into nutrient-rich soil.

5. Concern– It’s over exploitation can cause outbreak of new forest diseases such as Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)

Termitomyces species

1. All Termitomyces species are edible and valued for their texture, flavour, nutrients, and health benefits.

2. They have a variety of beneficial antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Other types of Mushrooms in Goa

Local Name	Name derived from their characteristics
Khut olmi	Shape- Long stem
Fugo olmi	Balloon-shaped
Tamdi olmi	Red colour
Shith olmi	Fruiting season- winter

UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology/Environment (Species in news)