THE CONTEXT: The challenges and tensions in India’s fiscal federalism, highlighting the asymmetry in the distribution of fiscal responsibilities and resources between the central and state governments is a pivotal issue. Outlining recent legal disputes involving Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, which have sought judicial remedies for what they perceive as the Union government’s overreach or neglect in financial matters. The political dynamics that influence fiscal federal relations and the potential economic consequences of these disputes are a cause of concern.

ISSUES:

• Asymmetry in Fiscal Federalism: The inherent asymmetry in India’s fiscal federalism, where the vertical imbalance between the Union and the states has led to disproportionate allocations of revenue sources and responsibilities. This asymmetry has recently shown signs of stress, affecting the fiscal capacity of state governments to fulfill their constitutionally mandated duties.
• Judicial Interventions in Fiscal Matters: There are instances where states such as Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have sought judicial remedies through the Supreme Court for what they perceive as overreach or neglect by the Union government. These cases often revolve around the Union government’s control over borrowing limits and the timely disbursement of funds for disaster relief, which the states argue are crucial for managing local fiscal crises and fulfilling public service obligations.
• Political-Economic Tensions: The disputes between the Union and state governments are not merely fiscal but have deep political undertones. The Union government may use its fiscal controls for political expediency, particularly in dealings with opposition-ruled states. This politicization of fiscal federalism can undermine cooperative federalism and lead to contentious relations.
• Challenges in Managing Public Finance: Fiscal transfers from the Union government to the states do not always succeed in achieving revenue equalization or enhancing the states’ fiscal autonomy. States that rely too heavily on central transfers and borrowing may also potentially engage in fiscally irresponsible behavior.
• Need for Adherence to Fiscal Federalism Principles: There is a need for a return to fiscal federalism principles, such as fiscal discipline and reciprocity, to ensure that both levels of government work towards common objectives like supporting merit goods and managing public resources efficiently. This approach is deemed necessary to prevent fiscal distress and ensure macroeconomic stability.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Revising Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Guidelines: Article 293(3) allows the Union government to place conditions on state borrowing. Amend the FRBM Act to provide more flexibility to states during emergencies or crises while maintaining overall macroeconomic stability. This could involve setting cyclically adjusted borrowing limits for economic downturns or natural disasters.
• Enhancing Transparency and Predictability in Fiscal Transfers: Article 280 mandates the Finance Commission to make recommendations on the distribution of tax revenues between the Union and the states. Implement a more transparent and formula-based system for fiscal transfers that reduces the central government’s discretionary power and provides predictable financial resources to states. This system should consider factors like population, income levels, and special needs due to natural disasters or economic downturns.
• Establishing an Independent Fiscal Council: Introduce a new constitutional amendment to establish an Independent Fiscal Council. This body could function similarly to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), as outlined in Articles 148-151, providing oversight and audits of fiscal policies and practices.4. Improving Disaster Management Funding.
• Standardize and expedite the process for disaster management funding. Establish clear criteria and timelines for releasing funds under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to ensure timely support for states facing natural disasters. Article 275 could be amended to specifically include provisions for disaster management funding, providing timely and adequate financial support to states during emergencies.
• Strengthening Cooperative Federalism: Foster a cooperative federalism framework by organizing regular consultations and negotiations between the Union and state governments. This would help in preemptively addressing potential conflicts and aligning national economic goals with state-specific needs.

THE CONCLUSION:

A recommitment to the principles of fiscal federalism, emphasizing the need for budgetary discipline, reciprocity, and a focus on merit goods, is a desirable solution. Resolving fiscal disputes should be grounded in sound economics rather than political maneuvering. It underscores the importance of cooperative federalism and the role of states in human development and social goods provision, advocating for a more equitable and efficient fiscal federal structure in India.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTION:

Q.1 How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position? 2014

Q.2 Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism? 2023

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Critically analyze the recent challenges faced by India’s fiscal federalism and the impact of these challenges on the principles of cooperative federalism and macroeconomic stability. Discuss the judiciary’s role in resolving disputes between the Union and state governments in the context of fiscal autonomy and responsibilities.

SOURCE:

https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/adhere-to-principles-of-fiscal-federalism-2984668

THE CONTEXT: There has been a significant shift in India’s foreign policy concerning the South China Sea disputes. Historically, India maintained a neutral stance, but recent developments indicate a more assertive approach. This change is attributed to India’s broader strategic and economic goals, including the need to secure energy resources and uphold international maritime law.

ISSUES:

• Policy Shift from Economic to Strategic Engagement: Initially, India’s involvement in the South China Sea was primarily economic, driven by the Look East Policy. This has transformed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration’s Act East Policy, which emphasizes not only economic integration but also strategic partnerships and security cooperation with Indo-Pacific nations.
• Increased Geopolitical Tensions with China: There have been escalating geopolitical tensions between India and China, particularly following the Galwan Valley incident 2020. This tension is reflected in India’s more assertive stance in the South China Sea, including military deployments and naval exercises to counter China’s aggressive territorial claims.
• Support for International Maritime Law: India’s stance in the South China Sea increasingly supports adherence to international maritime law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This reflects a commitment to a rules-based global order and challenges China’s unilateral actions in the region.
• Strategic Engagements and ASEAN Centrality: India’s strategic engagements, such as regular naval exercises and military cooperation with Southeast Asian nations, underscore its commitment to regional security. These engagements also emphasize the importance of ASEAN centrality in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy despite the challenges posed by differences within the regional grouping.
• Implications for Regional and Global Maritime Order: India’s policy in the South China Sea is portrayed as having a significant impact on regional security and the global maritime order, particularly regarding freedom of navigation and overflight. This is critical not only for India’s trade and energy transportation routes but also for global naval traffic.
• India’s Role as a Responsible Stakeholder: India is positioning itself as a responsible stakeholder committed to regional stability and security. This role is part of a broader strategy to safeguard its interests while contributing to collective efforts to maintain peace and respect international law in the Indo-Pacific region.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Diplomatic Engagement: India should continue to engage diplomatically with China and ASEAN countries to encourage peaceful resolution of disputes and adherence to international law.
• Strengthening Partnerships: India should further strengthen its strategic and defense partnerships with countries in the Indo-Pacific region, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines.
• Multilateral Forums: India should actively participate in multilateral forums to advocate for the freedom of navigation, overflight, and a rules-based maritime order.
• Economic Cooperation: India should pursue economic cooperation with Southeast Asian countries to enhance regional integration and mutual dependency, which can serve as a stabilizing factor.
• Naval Presence and Exercises: India should maintain a regular naval presence in the Indo-Pacific and conduct joint exercises with regional navies to demonstrate its commitment to regional security.
• Legal and Technical Support: India could offer legal and technical support to countries involved in the South China Sea disputes to help them navigate the complexities of international maritime law.
• Public Diplomacy: India should engage in public diplomacy to articulate its stance on the South China Sea and build international consensus on the importance of a rules-based order.

THE CONCLUSION:

By advocating for a rules-based maritime order and emphasizing the importance of UNCLOS, India is positioning itself as a responsible stakeholder in regional security. This nuanced approach aims to balance India’s interests with its commitment to collective peace and stability while also serving as a counterbalance to China’s assertive policies. India’s recalibrated strategy underscores the importance of ASEAN centrality in its Indo-Pacific vision and the need to support the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, which is crucial for global trade and energy transportation.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affirm the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and over flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China. 2014

Q.2 The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS aims to counter China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing alliances in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. 2021

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Evaluate the implications of India’s evolving policy in the South China Sea on its relations with ASEAN countries and China. Discuss how India’s stance on the South China Sea reflects its broader strategic objectives in the Indo-Pacific region.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/indias-nuanced-approach-in-the-south-china-sea/article68080577.ece

THE CONTEXT: India has been facing criticism and declining rankings on various global democracy indices recently. The Indian government has responded by dismissing these rankings and even considering creating its democracy index.

ISSUES:

• India’s democratic decline: According to the V-Dem Institute’s Democracy Report 2024, India is “one of the worst autocrats” and has been downgraded to an “electoral autocracy” since 2018. This indicates a significant deterioration of democratic freedoms in the country.
• The weaponization of central agencies: The selective and politically-motivated use of central agencies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax department to target opposition leaders undermines the independence of these institutions.
• Bias in the criminal justice system: There are concerns about the diminution of the criminal justice system, with the perception that corrupt politicians who join the ruling BJP party escape prosecution.
• Undermining of the judiciary: There are allegations that the ruling government has undermined the Supreme Court by overturning its judgments through fresh ordinances or legislation.
• Rising income inequality: The study by the World Inequality Lab found India’s income inequality is now among the highest in the world, even more potent than under British colonial rule. This inequality is seen as a manifestation of undemocratic governance.
• Crackdown on dissent and civil liberties: There are serious concerns about the erosion of rights and civil liberties, including attacks on Muslims, the use of sedition laws against critics and dissenters, and the government’s heavy-handed response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Defensive and dismissive responses to international assessments: The Indian government’s tendency to either lap up praise or dismiss criticism from international organizations and think tanks as biased rather than engaging substantively with the concerns raised.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Strengthening democratic institutions: The independence and integrity of institutions like the judiciary, investigative agencies, and election commission must be safeguarded. Measures to curb the politicization and misuse of these bodies are crucial.
• Protecting civil liberties and minority rights: The government must protect fundamental rights like freedom of expression, assembly, and religion. Crackdowns on dissent and attacks on minority communities undermine democratic principles.
• Ensuring fair and transparent elections: The electoral process must be free, fair, and inclusive, with robust mechanisms to prevent misuse of state machinery and resources. Reforms to campaign finance and media regulations could help level the playing field.
• Promoting accountability and transparency: Strong anti-corruption measures, protection for whistleblowers, and independent oversight of government actions are needed to curb the misuse of power. Opacity in political funding and the selective targeting of opposition figures erodes public trust.
• Fostering a pluralistic public discourse: The government should encourage a diversity of views and perspectives in the media and public sphere rather than stifling critical voices. Safeguarding press freedom and the space for civil society is essential for a healthy democracy.
• Engaging with international institutions: While maintaining national sovereignty, the government should constructively engage with global democratic watchdogs and address their concerns rather than dismissing them outright. Openness to external scrutiny can strengthen domestic accountability.

THE CONCLUSION:

India has lost the perception battle of its democracy despite the government’s efforts to project itself as the “mother of democracy.” It emphasizes that true democracy requires preventing those in power from permanently appropriating it for their ends and that a democrat must never try to subvert democratic processes

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. 2016

Q.2 The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting a probe within a particular State is being questioned by various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with specific reference to the federal character of India. 2021

Q.3 While the national political parties in India favor centralization, the regional parties favor State autonomy. Comment. 2022

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Critically analyze the state of Indian democracy based on the country’s performance on global democracy indices in recent years. What are the key challenges highlighted, and what reforms may be needed to strengthen democratic institutions and norms?

SOURCE:

https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/democracy-interrupted-2981382

THE CONTEXT: Hydrocarbons, the organic compounds of carbon and hydrogen, are located in underground rock formations such as natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum reservoirs. These reservoirs are typically found where a more resistant rock type overlays a less resistant one, creating a natural containment system that prevents the hydrocarbons from dissipating. The primary source of these hydrocarbons is kerogen, a kind of organic matter that can yield different oils and gases depending on its origin—lacustrine, marine, or terrestrial.

ISSUES:

• Location and Formation of Hydrocarbons: Hydrocarbons are found in underground reservoirs, where a more resistant rock type overlays a less resistant one, creating a natural containment system. The primary source of hydrocarbons is kerogen, which is organic matter that can originate from lacustrine, marine, or terrestrial ecosystems. Different types of kerogen yield different hydrocarbon products: waxy oils from lacustrine sources, oil and gas from marine sources, and light oils, gas, and coal from terrestrial sources.
• Extraction Techniques: Petroleum geologists use various methods to assess the porosity and permeability of rock formations to determine their potential for hydrocarbon extraction. Drilling and reservoir engineers are tasked with creating production wells and extracting hydrocarbons in a manner that is profitable and minimally damaging to the reservoir.
• Drilling Process: The drilling process involves creating a hole with a drill bit, using steel casings and cement slurry to stabilize the well, and employing drilling fluid to cool the bit and remove rock cuttings. Blowout preventers are crucial safety devices that prevent uncontrolled eruptions of hydrocarbons during drilling.
• Hydrocarbon Extraction: The completion stage prepares the well for hydrocarbon drainage, often relying on the natural pressure differential to drive the flow of hydrocarbons to the surface. In cases where natural pressure is insufficient, mechanical methods like pump jacks are used to extract hydrocarbons.
• Environmental and Safety Concerns: The extraction and burning of hydrocarbons have led to significant environmental pollution and are a major contributor to global warming. The drilling and extraction processes pose safety risks, including the potential for blowouts and the handling of flammable substances.
• Economic and Energy Dependence: The Industrial Revolutions were fueled by the ability to extract and utilize hydrocarbons, highlighting the historical dependence on these resources for energy and economic development.
• Technological Advancements: Modern drilling rigs are sophisticated and can operate onshore and offshore. They use additional technologies to enhance stability and efficiency in hydrocarbon extraction.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Transition to Renewable Energy: Investing in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can reduce dependence on hydrocarbons and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
• Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in industries, buildings, and transportation can reduce the overall hydrocarbon demand.
• Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Developing and implementing CCS technologies can capture carbon dioxide emissions from using hydrocarbons and store them underground, preventing them from entering the atmosphere.
• Regulatory Measures: Governments can implement policies and regulations to limit emissions, promote clean energy, and encourage sustainable practices.
• Research and Development: Investing in research to develop cleaner and more efficient extraction and usage methods for hydrocarbons can minimize environmental impact.
• International Cooperation: Global challenges like climate change require international collaboration to set and achieve emissions reduction targets and share sustainable technologies.

THE CONCLUSION:

The extraction of hydrocarbons is a critical yet intricate process that has fueled industrial revolutions and modern economies. Despite its historical significance, the extraction and use of hydrocarbons have also led to environmental concerns, including air and water pollution and global warming. As society grapples with these issues, the search for sustainable and less polluting energy sources becomes more pressing.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 It is said that India has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, which can feed the needs of the country for a quarter century. However, tapping the resources doesn’t appear to be high on the agenda. Discuss critically the availability and issues involved. 2013

Q.2 What are the economic significances of the discovery of oil in the Arctic Sea and its possible environmental consequences? 2015

Q.3 Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas. 2023

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Discuss the geological processes involved in forming hydrocarbons, explain the modern techniques used for their extraction, and evaluate the environmental impacts of these extraction processes.

SOURCE:

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/hydrocarbon-extraction-drilling/article68067808.ece

THE CONTEXT: The implications of the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023, which mandates the recording of parents’ religion in the birth registration process in India, imprints many dilemmas. It critiques this requirement as a potential infringement on individual rights and a step towards communalism and majoritarianism. Assigning a religion at birth can limit personal growth and freedom, impacting a child’s ability to develop their beliefs and moral framework.

ISSUES:

• Violation of Human Rights: The practice of labeling a child’s religion at birth is criticized as a violation of human rights. It imposes predefined religious identities on children, potentially restricting their freedom and personal growth. This is a retrogressive measure that could harm the child’s development and autonomy.
• Threat to Democratic Values: By enforcing religious labels from birth, the law is perceived as undermining democratic principles and promoting divisive ideologies like communalism, patriarchy, and majoritarianism. This could lead to societal divisions and discrimination based on religious identities.
• Impact on Child Development: A significant portion of a child’s brain development occurs in the early years, and the environment, including imposed religious beliefs, can profoundly shape their lifelong attitudes and beliefs. This early imposition of religion could stifle a child’s ability to develop a personal moral and ethical framework.
• Potential for Abuse: The requirement to register a child’s religion could be misused for political or social control, reinforcing negative stereotypes and social divisions. It could also lead to increased surveillance and profiling based on religious identities.
• Historical and Philosophical Concerns: Historical figures like Gautama Buddha and Galileo argue that imposing a rigid religious identity from birth could prevent individuals from achieving their full potential and contributing to societal progress. Personal spiritual and intellectual growth should be free from institutionalized religious constraints.
• Legal and Privacy Issues: There are concerns about the legal implications of linking religious identity with official documents from birth, which could infringe on privacy rights and lead to discrimination.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Judicial Review: If the amendment is not feasible politically, affected individuals or human rights organizations could challenge the constitutionality of the Act in court. The judiciary could play a crucial role in examining whether the Act infringes on fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
• Protection of Privacy: Strengthening data protection laws to ensure that any data collected, including religious affiliation, is strictly used for administrative purposes and not for profiling or discrimination.
• Promoting Scientific Temperament: Educational curricula should emphasize critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and the questioning of orthodoxies. This approach would help cultivate a generation that values evidence-based reasoning over blind adherence to tradition.
• Interfaith Dialogues: Promoting dialogues between religious and cultural groups can enhance mutual understanding and reduce prejudices. Respected community leaders, scholars, and activists can facilitate these dialogues.
• Ethical Training Programs: Implement training programs for all stakeholders involved in the data collection and processing under the new Act. Training should focus on ethical handling of sensitive information, respecting individual privacy, and understanding the implications of data misuse, as highlighted in.
• Right to Opt-Out and Correct Information: Provide individuals with the legal right to opt out of having their religious information recorded or to correct it if necessary. This would respect individual autonomy and align with the ethical principles of consent and personal freedom.

THE CONCLUSION:

Emphasizing the profound influence of early childhood environments on developing personal beliefs and societal norms, the piece warns against the dangers of institutionalizing divisive ideologies through laws that may seem benign but have more profound implications for communal harmony and individual freedom. The piece advocates for a more open and flexible approach to religious identity, allowing individuals like Gautama Buddha to explore and define their beliefs without legal or societal constraints.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 Humans should always be treated as ‘ends’ and never merely `means.’ Explain the meaning and significance of this statement, giving its implications in the modern techno-economic society. 2014

Q.2 The actual rule in determining whether to embrace or reject anything is not whether it has any evil in it but whether it has more evil than good. There are few things wholly evil or wholly good. Almost everything, especially governmental policy, is an inseparable compound of the two, so our best judgment of the preponderance between them is continually demanded. ” Abraham Lincoln. 2018

Q.3 Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that it is better for us all” – Erik Erikson 2021

Q.4 What teachings of Buddha are most relevant today and why? Discuss. 2018

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Discuss the implications of the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023, which mandates the recording of parents’ religion in the birth registration process. Critically evaluate the potential impacts of this amendment on communal harmony and individual freedom in India. Use relevant examples to substantiate your arguments.

SOURCE:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/naseeruddin-shah-and-ashok-lal-write-why-religion-must-only-be-for-adults-9272296/

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The United States exercised its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a resolution supporting full United Nations membership for Palestine.

EXPLANATION:

• This move highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the United States’ stance on the issue.
• The resolution received significant support from the 15-member Security Council, with 12 members voting in favor, while the United States opposed it.
• Two members abstained from the vote, reflecting a broad international consensus in favor of Palestine’s U.N. membership.
• Had the resolution passed, it would have recommended Palestine’s admission as the 194th member of the United Nations to the General Assembly.
• With approximately 140 countries already recognizing the state of Palestine, approval from the General Assembly was highly anticipated.

U.S. Opposition:

• The United States opposed the resolution, arguing that premature actions in New York, even with good intentions, would not lead to statehood for the Palestinian people.
• This stance reflects the U.S. government’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its approach to achieving a resolution.

Context of the Conflict:

• The veto comes amid heightened tensions in the region, particularly due to the recent war in Gaza, which has once again brought the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict to the forefront of international attention.
• The conflict, which has persisted for over 75 years, remains a complex and contentious issue in global politics.

International Response and Significance:

• The U.S. veto has elicited various reactions from the international community, with some expressing disappointment at the outcome.
• The resolution’s failure underscores the challenges and complexities of resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through diplomatic means and highlights the entrenched positions of key stakeholders.

Impact on Palestinian Statehood Efforts:

• This marks the second attempt by Palestine to seek full U.N. membership, reflecting ongoing efforts to achieve recognition and statehood on the international stage.
• Despite the setback, the Palestinian leadership is likely to continue pursuing diplomatic avenues to advance its aspirations for statehood.

United Nations Security Council (UNSC):

• The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the principal organs of the United Nations (UN), established to maintain international peace and security. It plays a critical role in addressing global conflicts, crises, and threats to international peace.
• Composition:The UNSC is composed of 15 member states, with five permanent members (P5) and ten non-permanent members. The P5, (United States, Russia, China, France & UK) also known as the “Great Powers,” have veto power, which allows them to block any substantive resolution, making their decisions particularly influential.
• Membership Rotation:Non-permanent members are elected for two-year terms, with five seats opening up each year. This rotation ensures that different regions of the world are represented over time.

Criteria for Membership: To become a member of the UNSC, a country must meet the following criteria:

• UN Membership:A nation must first be a member of the United Nations to be eligible for UNSC membership.
• Election:Non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly through a two-thirds majority vote. The geographical distribution of seats is a key consideration, ensuring fair representation across regions.
• Rotation:Members serve two-year terms and can be re-elected, but there is a limit on consecutive terms. This rotation helps maintain diversity and a balance of interests.

Mandate and Functions: The UNSC’s mandate and functions are outlined in Chapter VI and Chapter VII of the UN Charter:

• Maintenance of International Peace and Security:The primary mandate of the UNSC is to address threats to international peace and security. It does so through various means, including conflict resolution, peacekeeping, and the authorization of the use of force when necessary.
• Conflict Resolution:The UNSC actively seeks to resolve international conflicts through diplomatic means, negotiation, and the promotion of peaceful settlements.
• Peacekeeping:It authorizes and oversees UN peacekeeping missions, which involve the deployment of military and civilian personnel to regions experiencing conflict to help maintain or restore peace.
• Imposition of Sanctions:The UNSC can impose economic and diplomatic sanctions against states that threaten international peace and security. These measures are intended to pressure nations into compliance with international norms.
• Authorization of Use of Force:In cases of imminent threats to international peace, the UNSC can authorize the use of force, which may include military intervention, to restore or maintain peace. This is a controversial but necessary function to respond to some crises.
• Supervision of Armistices and Agreements:The UNSC monitors and supervises armistices and agreements to ensure compliance by the parties involved.
• Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Action:The UNSC plays a role in protecting civilians in conflict zones and promoting humanitarian assistance.
• Recommendations on General Principles of Cooperation:The UNSC can make recommendations on principles of cooperation and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-vetoes-resolution-backing-full-un-membership-for-palestine/article68081442.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Eritrea emerges as the country with the poorest plastic waste management practices globally, with a staggering 97% of plastic waste being mismanaged.

EXPLANATION:

• This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for comprehensive waste management strategies in the country.
• The Plastic Overshoot Day (POD) Report sheds light on the global plastic pollution crisis.
• The report revealed that 81 countries, including 44 African nations and India, contribute significantly to plastic pollution due to poor waste management practices.
• The consequences of mismanaged plastic waste are profound, with environmental pollution and adverse effects on ecosystems and human health being major concerns.
• The report underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges to mitigate the impact on the planet.
• The report provides insights into the capacity of various countries to manage plastic waste, highlighting projections for plastic waste generation and mismanagement trends.
• Despite slight improvements in some areas, the overall volume of plastic waste continues to increase globally.

India’s Progress and Challenges:

• India’s rank in the Mismanaged Waste Index (MWI) has improved since 2023, indicating progress in waste management efforts.
• However, with 68.62% of plastic waste still being mismanaged, there is room for further improvement.
• The report emphasizes the need for continued investment in waste management infrastructure and programs like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

Higher MWI indicates poor management of plastics waste generated. For example, In Rwanda, 93.4 percent of generated plastics waste is being mismanaged; 68.62 per cent of generated plastics waste is being mismanaged in India

Global Plastic Waste Generation:

• The report projects a significant increase in global plastic waste generation between 2021 and 2024, highlighting the magnitude of the challenge.
• It warns of the potential environmental and health impacts of this growing trend, urging policymakers to take proactive measures to address the plastic waste crisis.

Recommendations for Action:

• The report advocates for a systemic overhaul of waste management practices, emphasizing the importance of ratifying and implementing the United Nations Plastic Treaty.
• It outlines 15 global rules for policymakers to consider, including the need for significant investments in waste management infrastructure and programs.

Role of International Negotiations:

• With the fourth round of negotiations for the United Nations Plastic Treaty approaching, the report stresses the importance of translating words into action.
• It calls for a concerted effort from global leaders to address the plastic waste crisis and implement effective solutions.

Steps taken by the govt.:

• Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2022: It prohibits the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of several single-use plastic items as of July 1, 2022. It has also mandated Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) that incorporates circularity by making manufacturers of products responsible for collecting and processing their products upon the end of the products’ lifetime.
• Project REPLAN: Project REPLAN which stands for REducing PLastic in Nature has been launched by Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) aims to reduce consumption of plastic bags by providing a more sustainable alternative.
• Ban on single-use plastics: India has banned the production, use, and sale of single-use plastics such as bags, cups, plates, cutlery, and straws in many states.
• National Dashboard on Elimination of Single Use Plastic and Plastic Waste Management: India launched a nationwide awareness campaign on Single Use Plastics on World Environment Day in June 2022. A mobile app for Single Use Plastics Grievance Redressal was also launched to empower citizens to check sale/usage/manufacturing of SUP in their area and tackle the plastic menace.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/eritrea-fares-worst-in-the-world-in-plastic-waste-management-shows-plastic-overshoot-day-report-95651

TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

THE CONTEXT: The National Framework of Early Childhood Stimulation 2024, titled ‘Navchetana’, emphasizes the critical importance of early childhood learning, beginning from birth to the age of three.

EXPLANATION:

• This framework aims to guide parents, anganwadi staff, and ASHA workers in conducting age-appropriate activities to stimulate children’s development across various domains.
• The framework document has been developed by an internal committee comprising representatives from key ministries and organizations, including the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of Education, and civil society organizations.
• Titled ‘Navchetana’, the curriculum aligns with the principles of the National Education Policy 2020, emphasizing a continuum of learning.
• To facilitate the successful implementation of the curriculum, staff in 14 lakh anganwadis will undergo training on the activities outlined in the framework.
• This training aims to equip caregivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage children effectively in stimulating activities that promote holistic development.
• The activity-based curriculum emphasizes various forms of engagement, including talking, playing, moving, listening to music, and sensory stimulation.
• These activities are designed to target developmental milestones across different domains, such as early language, emergent literacy, and numeracy.
• The framework underscores the critical period of the first three years of a child’s life, during which 75% of brain development occurs.
• It provides detailed information on the importance of early brain development and offers step-by-step instructions for caregivers and frontline workers on conducting stimulating activities.

Implementation Strategies:

• Caregivers are encouraged to actively engage with children by capturing their attention, communicating effectively, and responding to their cues.
• The curriculum advocates for introducing age-appropriate play activities, following the child’s lead, and providing positive reinforcement to encourage learning and exploration.

Age-Specific Activities:

• The curriculum comprises 36 sets of activities tailored to children from birth to 36 months.
• These activities evolve over time to align with the child’s developmental stage and include simple tasks such as reaching for objects, imitating sounds, and more complex activities like sorting objects and identifying colors.

Identification of Developmental Delays:

• One of the key objectives of the framework is to enable early detection of developmental delays.
• Caregivers are trained to recognize signs of delay and adapt activities accordingly, ensuring that children receive appropriate support and intervention as needed.

Anganwadi:

• Anganwadi is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented by the States / UTs which serves as a rural child and maternal care centre in India.
• It was started by the Government of India In 1975 as part of the Integrated Child Development Services program to combat child hunger and malnutrition.
• Anganwadi centres provide a package of six services: supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, immunisation, health check-up, nutrition and health education, and referral services.
• The beneficiaries under the Anganwadi Services Scheme are identified on the basis of Aadhaar.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/activity-based-curriculum-drawn-up-for-anganwadis/article68076518.ece#:~:text=The%20curriculum%20involves%20talking%2C%20playing,and%20emergent%20literacy%20and%20numeracy%E2%80%9D

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The ongoing bird flu outbreak, which began in 2020, has sparked significant concern due to its spread to various species, including humans.

EXPLANATION:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the extraordinarily high mortality rate associated with human infections.
• The outbreak has resulted in the deaths of tens of millions of poultry worldwide, with wild birds, as well as land and marine mammals, also being affected.
• The spread of the H5N1 strain to new species, including humans, raises serious alarm within the global health community.

Concerns Raised by WHO:

• The A(H5N1) strain of bird flu has become a global zoonotic pandemic, infecting not only ducks and chickens but also various mammals.
• Of particular concern is the potential for the virus to evolve and gain the ability to infect humans, leading to human-to-human transmission.
• While human-to-human transmission has not been observed, individuals who have been infected through contact with animals face an extraordinarily high mortality rate.
• WHO reports a case fatality rate of 52% from 2003 to April 1, 2024, across 23 countries.
• The recent infection of cows and goats by the H5N1 virus is a surprising development, as these animals were not previously thought to be susceptible to this type of influenza.
• This expansion of the host range brings the virus closer to humans, increasing the risk of spillover.
• A person in Texas recently tested positive for bird flu after exposure to dairy cattle, marking only the second case of human infection in the United States.
• This incident highlights the potential for transmission from infected mammals to humans, posing a significant public health threat.

Need for Vigilance and Preparedness:

• WHO emphasizes the importance of enhancing monitoring efforts to track human infections and detect any signs of adaptation in the virus.
• Rapid diagnosis and response capabilities at regional and national levels are crucial for containing potential outbreaks and preventing human-to-human transmission.

Research and Development Efforts:

• Efforts are underway to develop vaccines and therapeutics specifically targeting the H5N1 virus.
• Ensuring equitable access to these medical interventions is essential for effective response and containment measures globally.

Bird flu and H5N1:

• Bird flu, also known as avian flu, refers to an infectious viral illness that mainly infects and spreads among poultry and some wild birds.
• There are different strains of bird flu virus, which have been circulating for a very long time among at least 100 bird species, including wild waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, without much harming them.
• From time to time, a form of the flu virus jumps from wild birds to poultry farms, and replicates in cramped warehouses of farmed birds.
• It then quickly evolves into a highly pathogenic flu virus that causes a larger wave of illness and death than usual among birds.
• The currently circulating type of H5N1 is one such highly pathogenic flu virus.
• It has “descended from a virus that caused an outbreak on a goose farm in Guangdong, China, in 1996.
• That virus — one of a type of virus known as H5N1 — was highly pathogenic and killed more than 40 per cent of the farm birds it infected.
• The new version of H5N1 first emerged in Europe in 2020 and then rapidly reached Europe, Africa, and Asia.
• By late 2021, it had spread to North America and in the fall of 2022, it appeared in South America.
• In February 2024, the virus stormed through mainland Antarctica.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/human-cases-of-bird-flu-an-enormous-concern-who/article68080029.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Reports of whooping cough outbreaks have surfaced in various countries across the globe, including China, the Philippines, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, the United States, Australia, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

EXPLANATION:

• China, in particular, has seen a dramatic increase in cases, with a more than 20-fold rise reported in January and February compared to the previous year.

Pertussis:

• Whooping cough, scientifically known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.
• It primarily affects the respiratory system and is characterized by severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a “whooping” sound when trying to inhale.
• Whooping cough poses a significant threat, especially to young children and infants, with potential fatal outcomes.
• Chinese authorities have confirmed 32,380 cases and 13 deaths, emphasizing its impact on infant and child mortality globally.
• However, it’s crucial to note that whooping cough can affect individuals of all ages, particularly when immunity wanes over time.

Factors Contributing to Outbreaks:

• Weakening of Vaccine Long-Term Effects:
  • Researchers point to the weakening of the DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) vaccine’s long-term efficacy as a major contributing factor to the resurgence of whooping cough.
  • This phenomenon is particularly evident in China, where the vaccine’s effectiveness appears to diminish over time, leaving individuals susceptible to infection.
• Impact of Outdoor Air Pollution:
  • Another significant factor implicated in the resurgence of whooping cough is the influence of outdoor air pollution, particularly in countries like China.
  • Researchers suggest that exposure to pollutants may exacerbate respiratory illnesses and compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to bacterial infections like pertussis.
• Bacterial Mutation:
  • Recent observations indicate that the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, responsible for causing whooping cough, has undergone mutations, particularly notable in Australia.
  • These mutations could potentially render existing vaccines less effective against certain strains of the bacteria, contributing to increased infection rates.

Cyclical Nature of Outbreaks:

• While whooping cough outbreaks typically exhibit cyclical patterns, occurring every three to five years, the current trend suggests a sustained increase in incidences over the past two decades.
• This indicates a more complex interplay of factors beyond natural cyclical fluctuations.

Regional Outbreaks:

• Several countries have reported significant spikes in whooping cough cases, reflecting a global resurgence of the disease.
• Spain experienced a substantial outbreak with over 8,200 cases by March 2024, while the Czech Republic recorded its highest number of cases in over 70 years, surpassing 6,300 cases this year.

Vaccination Efforts:

• Vaccination remains the primary strategy for preventing whooping cough. The DTP vaccine, recommended for children, and Tdap vaccines for adults play a crucial role in reducing the incidence and severity of the disease.
• However, the global challenge of vaccine hesitancy and missed doses poses significant obstacles to achieving optimal immunization coverage.

DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) Vaccine:                       

• The DTaP vaccine is administered to children from 6 weeks to 6 years of age to provide immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
• This activity outlines the DTaP vaccine’s indications, actions, and potential adverse effects as a valuable agent against these diseases.
• This activity will highlight the mechanism of action, administration, adverse effects, contraindications, and monitoring pertinent for healthcare team members in managing vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Its objectives are:
  • Review the pathophysiologies of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
  • Identify the components of the DTaP vaccine, dosing, and site of injection.
  • Summarize the recommendations of when to administer the DTaP vaccine.
  • Outline the interprofessional team strategies for improving care coordination and communication to advance immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis and improve outcomes.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/video/health/whooping-cough-outbreak-reported-around-the-world-95628