Civilsdaily

Subject: Indian Society

  • Delhi HC upholds Ban on Sapinda Marriages: Legal Insights

    Introduction

    • The Delhi High Court recently dismissed a challenge to the constitutionality of Section 5(v) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (HMA), which prohibits sapinda marriages among Hindus unless custom permits.
    • The court’s decision affirms the legal restrictions on such marriages and emphasizes the importance of regulating marital choices.

    For Aspirants with Sociology Optional, this article is of immense importance under: “Systems of Kinship- Family, household, marriage” in both Paper I and Paper II.

    Understanding Sapinda Marriages

    • Definition: Sapinda marriages involve individuals closely related within specified degrees, as per Section 3(f)(ii) of the HMA.
    • Prohibition: The HMA prohibits sapinda marriages within a certain range of lineal ascent, ensuring that marriages do not occur between individuals with a common lineal ascendant within the defined limits.

    Legal Framework

    • Void Marriages: Sapinda marriages that violate Section 5(v) and lack an established custom permitting them are declared void, meaning they are considered invalid from the outset.
    • Customary Exception: The sole exception to this prohibition arises when both parties’ customs permit sapinda marriages, as defined in Section 3(a) of the HMA.
    • Custom Criteria: To qualify as a custom, it must be continuously observed, uniform, reasonable, and not opposed to public policy, gaining legitimacy among Hindus in a particular area or community.

    Grounds for Challenging the Law

    • Constitutional Challenge: The petitioner contended that Section 5(v) violated the right to equality under Article 14 of the Constitution by requiring proof of custom for sapinda marriages.
    • Lack of Proof: The woman argued that sapinda marriages exist even without documented custom, and the consent of both families validated the marriage.

    High Court’s Decision

    • No Established Custom: The Delhi HC found no stringent proof of an established custom supporting sapinda marriages, which is crucial under the law.
    • Regulation of Marriages: The court upheld the idea that the choice of a marriage partner can be subject to regulation.
    • No Violation of Equality: The petitioner failed to provide compelling legal grounds to challenge the prohibition against sapinda marriages on grounds of violating the right to equality.

    International Perspectives

    • European Laws: In several European countries, laws related to incestuous relationships are less stringent compared to India, allowing marriages between consenting adults.
    • Examples: France, Belgium, Portugal, and Italy have different laws regarding incestuous relationships and marriages.
    • US Laws: In the United States, incestuous marriages are banned in all 50 states, but some states allow incestuous relationships between consenting adults.

    Conclusion

    • The Delhi HC decision reaffirms the legal framework regulating sapinda marriages in India and emphasizes the importance of established customs in permitting such unions.
    • It also highlights the differing legal approaches to incestuous relationships and marriages in various countries.

  • Health Ministry announces new treatment regimen for Leprosy

    Leprosy

    Introduction

    • The Central government of India has given its approval for a new treatment regimen aimed at hastening the eradication of leprosy in the country.
    • The move, based on the latest global scientific research and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), seeks to transition from a two-drug regimen to a three-drug regimen for Pauci-Bacillary (PB) leprosy cases.

    New Leprosy Treatment Regimen

    • Objective: The primary goal is to halt the transmission of leprosy at the sub-national level by 2027, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, three years ahead of schedule.
    • Transition from Two to Three Drugs: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has approved a shift from the existing two-drug regimen for six months to a three-drug regimen for Pauci-Bacillary (PB) cases.
    • Scientific Basis: This decision is grounded in the latest globally accepted scientific research studies and evidence-based practices.
    • WHO Endorsement: The World Health Organization (WHO) has committed to supply the revised drug regimen starting April 1, 2025, signifying international recognition and support for this approach.

    Key Implementation Steps

    • Three-Drug Regimen: The WHO-recommended treatment regimen includes dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine, collectively referred to as MDT. MDT is highly effective in killing the pathogen and curing the patient.
    • Advance Requisitions: All States and Union Territories are instructed to submit their requisitions for anti-leprosy drugs a full year in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
    • Unified Implementation Date: The revised classification of leprosy and the treatment regimen for both Pauci-Bacillary (PB) and multi-bacillary (MB) cases in India will come into effect simultaneously on April 1, 2025.

    Understanding Leprosy

    • Leprosy Overview: Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the Mycobacterium leprae bacteria, primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves.
    • Transmission: It spreads through droplets from the nose and mouth during close contact with untreated cases.
    • Curability: Leprosy is curable with multi-drug therapy (MDT).

    Distinction between PB and MB Cases

    • PB Cases: These individuals have fewer visible bacteria and show no signs of advanced disease in biopsies.
    • MB Cases: They have visible bacteria and may exhibit more advanced disease in biopsies.

    Significance of the New Regimen

    • Eradication Target: The adoption of this new treatment regimen is expected to accelerate India’s progress towards leprosy eradication by 2027, reinforcing the country’s commitment to combat this disease.
    • Previous Funding: The WHO has been providing free MDT, initially funded by the Nippon Foundation and later through an agreement with Novartis. This regimen is known as ‘Uniform MDT,’ simplifying administration and manufacturing processes.

  • Why India’s runaway Coaching Centres need Regulating?

    coaching

    Introduction

    • The recent government guidelines on regulating the coaching industry have stirred debate and raised questions about the state of education in India.
    • This article delves into the reasons behind the need for these guidelines and the potential impact on various stakeholders.

    Coaching Chaos: What’s the Issue?

    • Early Enrolment Scrapped: The government’s guidelines stipulate that students below 16 years of age should not be enrolled in coaching centers, restricting enrolment to post-secondary school (standard 10) examination.
    • A Shift in Education: This rule has caused concern as coaching centers have evolved into an alternative education pathway. Students as young as 10-12 years old are prepared for highly competitive exams, such as engineering, medical, and civil service, with low success rates.
    • Proliferation of Coaching Centers: Coaching centers are especially popular in states like Bihar, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh.

    The Need for Regulation: Why?

    • Rising Student Suicides: The alarming increase in student suicides, with 26 reported cases in Kota alone in 2023, underscores the immense pressure on schoolchildren.
    • Government’s Concerns: The Department of Higher Education, under the Ministry of Education, expressed the need for regulations in light of issues like student suicides, fire incidents, inadequate facilities, and teaching methodologies.
    • Emergence of ‘Dummy Schools’: The rise of ‘dummy schools’ linked to coaching centers, where physical attendance is not mandatory, has raised concerns. Parents often uproot their families and take loans to relocate to coaching hubs in pursuit of quality education.

    Wider Implications: Who Else Will Be Affected?

    • Ecosystem Impact: Coaching hubs like Kota have an entire ecosystem supporting institutes, students, and families, including middlemen, hostels, and hotels. All of these entities stand to lose out.
    • Real Estate Implications: Families relocating to coaching hubs contribute to local real estate income. Regulation may impact this aspect.
    • Impact on ‘Dummy Schools’: Dummy schools will face closure due to the new regulations.

    Perspectives from the Coaching Centers

    • Coaching Federation of India’s Response: The Coaching Federation of India (CFI), representing over 25,000 coaching institutes, may legally contest the minimum age requirement, seeking a reduction from 16 years to 12 years.
    • Competitive Stress Concerns: Large coaching institutes express concerns that the regulations may intensify competitive stress among students, offering them less time for preparation.
    • Regulatory Effectiveness: There is apprehension that the regulations may not effectively oversee smaller private coaching centers, making it challenging to monitor mom-and-pop establishments.

    Education’s Dependent Dynamic

    • Coaching Dependency: The guidelines shed light on the prevailing reliance on coaching institutes. They supplement students’ regular schooling and often require additional hours of study outside the classroom.
    • Misleading Promises: The guidelines also highlight how institutes sometimes make misleading promises or guarantee high scores, emphasizing that ranks and marks have eclipsed holistic student development.

    Conclusion

    • The government’s new guidelines have ignited a critical discussion about the coaching industry and its role in the Indian education landscape.
    • The regulations aim to address pressing concerns while acknowledging the evolving dynamics of education in the country.

  • Science Ministry announces first recipients of VAIBHAV Fellowship

    Introduction

    • In a significant move to bolster India’s scientific research ecosystem, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) recently unveiled the first batch of ‘Vaibhav’ fellows.

    About Vaibhav Fellowship Scheme

    • The Vaibhav Fellowship, initiated in June 2023, is designed to attract Indian-origin scientists residing abroad for short-term collaborations with Indian institutions.
    • These collaborations aim to foster research excellence and innovation by tapping into the expertise of Indian scientists from around the world.

    Benefits for Vaibhav Fellows

    • Collaboration: Fellows commit to spending a month or two annually in India for a maximum of three years, collaborating with host Indian institutions.
    • Financial Support: Each selected Vaibhav fellow receives a stipend of ₹4 lakh per month, along with accommodation during their stay in India.
    • Renowned Host Institutions: Host institutions encompass esteemed names like the IISc, IIT, and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, among others.
    • Research Grant: The host institutions are provided with a research grant to support collaborative projects and technology start-ups initiated by the fellows.
    • Long-term Research Connections: Fellows are encouraged to build enduring research connections with host institutions, collaborate with faculty, and bring fresh ideas to the field, contributing to Indian university and research settings.

    Vaibhav vs. Vajra: Distinct Objectives

    • Vaibhav Fellowship Scheme: Primarily targets the Indian diaspora for collaborations, with a focus on translational outcomes in critical areas of scientific research.
    • Vajra Scheme: Open to all foreign scientists, it promotes short-term visits by foreign faculty to Indian institutions, offering a broader platform for international collaboration.

  • Gender Equity in Education: A Focus on Early Childhood

    Gender Equity

    Introduction

    • Education is a cornerstone of societal development, and addressing gender-related issues within it is crucial for progress
    • While ASER 2023 data on learning outcomes may suggest gender equity, a closer look reveals persistent gender discrimination.

    Gender Equity: Learning Outcomes Parity

    • Gender Equity in Learning: Analysis of learning outcomes, such as test scores, shows parity between boys and girls in elementary and secondary classes across India.
    • Example: In Classes 3 and 5, girls and boys score equally in mathematics, both at 63 and 53, respectively.
    • Subject Scores: Gender differences in subject scores rarely exceed one percentage point.

    Widening Gender Gap

    • Increased Education: Girls in India are receiving more education than ever before, with the mean years of schooling nearly tripling from 1.7 years in 1990 to 4.7 years in 2018.
    • Boys’ Progress: Boys have also seen educational improvements, with the average attainment increasing from 4.1 to 8.2 years.
    • Growing Gender Gap: Despite girls making significant strides in education, the gender gap, measured as the difference in attainment between males and females, has grown over time, from 2.4 years to 3.5 years.
    • Global Trends: India’s divergence from global trends is notable, as many countries have seen equal improvements in education for both genders.

    Barriers to Education

    • Progressive Gender Gap: As education levels rise, barriers for girls become more significant, influenced by social norms, stereotypes, and adolescent-related factors.
    • Class 1 to Class 8: Dropout rates shift dramatically, with nearly twice as many girls dropping out by Class 8 compared to boys.

    Early Childhood Education (ECE)

    • Gender Bias in ECE: Gender discrimination begins at the earliest stages of education, as revealed by the Annual Status of Education Report “Early Years.”
    • Private vs. Government Schools: More boys are enrolled in private institutions, while girls are often sent to free government schools, reflecting societal biases.
    • Age Correlation: A five percentage point gender difference in enrollment exists at the age of four, growing to eight percentage points by age eight.
    • Impact of Gender Norms: Societies valuing male children’s education tend to withdraw more girls from school.

    Focus on ECE

    • Policy Shift Needed: Addressing the gender gap in education requires a shift towards Early Childhood Education (ECE) to tackle the roots of gender norms.
    • Age of Influence: Children between three and seven are highly impressionable, forming biases about gender roles during this period.
    • Challenges: Insufficient funding, poor quality, and the absence of legislation for universal ECE access pose challenges in India.
    • Investment Returns: Longitudinal studies indicate that every dollar invested in ECE yields substantial returns, proving its cost-effectiveness.
    • Government Initiatives: Programs like “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” and the Draft National Education Policy emphasize the importance of ECE.

    Conclusion

    • The gender gap in education, particularly in the early years, requires immediate attention and intervention. Establishing a regulatory framework, adequate funding, and quality standards for ECE is essential.
    • By eliminating gender stereotypes in preschools, we can work towards erasing the gender gap in education.
    • The benefits of investing in girls’ education are vast, ranging from reduced poverty and crime to improved economic development.
    • It is time to prioritize early childhood education to create a brighter and more equal future for all.

  • Re-evaluating the Use of Mosquitofish in India

    Mosquitofish

    Introduction

    • In recent months, several regions in India, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Punjab, have resorted to releasing mosquitofish into local water bodies as a means to combat mosquito-borne diseases.
    • While this approach aims to address a pressing public health concern, it brings to light ecological challenges associated with the introduction of mosquitofish.

    Understanding Mosquitofish

    • Biological Control of Mosquitoes: Mosquitofish, particularly Gambusia affinis and Gambusia holbrooki, were introduced in freshwater ecosystems in the 1960s as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for mosquito control.
    • Widespread Distribution: Originally native to the U.S., these fish have become global inhabitants due to their adaptability and tolerance to environmental fluctuations.
    • Unintended Consequences: Despite good intentions, the proliferation of mosquitofish has led to detrimental ecological and environmental effects.

    Historical Use in India

    • Early Introduction: Gambusia was first introduced in India in 1928 during British rule as a measure to combat malaria.
    • Government and Non-Governmental Involvement: Various governmental organizations, such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Malaria Research (NIMR), as well as local municipal corporations and health departments, were entrusted with introducing mosquitofish.
    • Widespread Distribution: Gambusia species are now established in multiple habitats across India.

    Ecological Impact

    • Invasive Alien Species: Mosquitofish are among the hundred most detrimental invasive alien species worldwide, leading to the displacement and extinction of native fauna.
    • Threat to Biodiversity: They exhibit voracious feeding habits and aggressive behavior, posing a threat to native fish, amphibians, and freshwater communities.
    • Global Examples: Studies in Australia, New Zealand, and India have shown the harmful consequences of Gambusia presence, including the decline of endemic species and predation on native fish and frogs.

    Sustainable Alternatives

    • WHO Recommendations: The World Health Organization stopped recommending Gambusia as a mosquito control agent in 1982.
    • Government Recognition: In 2018, the National Biodiversity Authority of the Government of India designated G. affinis and G. holbrooki as invasive alien species.
    • Local Solutions: Collaborative efforts between mosquito biologists, entomologists, invasion ecologists, and fish taxonomists can identify native fish species capable of mosquito control.
    • River Basin Approach: Authorities can compile lists of native fish species in each river basin that are effective in controlling mosquito larvae, offering an eco-friendly alternative to invasive species.

    Conclusion

    • The introduction of mosquitofish in India, once intended to combat mosquito-borne diseases, has led to ecological challenges and the disruption of native ecosystems.
    • To mitigate the adverse effects and protect indigenous aquatic biodiversity, it is essential to discontinue the use of Gambusia and instead explore sustainable alternatives rooted in local solutions.
    • By adopting a river basin approach and collaborating across disciplines, India can strike a balance between mosquito control and environmental preservation.

  • Highlights of the ASER 2023 Survey

    ASER

    Introduction

    • The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023, titled ‘Beyond Basics,’ offers a comprehensive snapshot of the educational landscape for 14-to-18-year-olds in rural India.

    About ASER

    • The ASER report, managed by the Pratham Education Foundation since 2005, is crucial for policymakers.
    • It helps them understand the status of schooling and basic learning in different areas.
    • The report is published every two years and is important for shaping education policies.
    • ASER 2023 covered 28 districts in 26 states and involved 34,745 youths aged 14-18.
    • The survey looked at their reading, math, and English skills, how they use these skills in daily life, their ability to understand written instructions, and their proficiency in these subjects.

    Positive outcomes identified

    • Increased Secondary Education Transition: Contrary to concerns about economic distress due to the pandemic, ASER 2023 notes a positive trend of more children in India having more years of schooling than ever before. Many are successfully transitioning to secondary education.
    • High Overall Enrolment Rate: The report highlights an encouraging 86.8% enrolment rate for 14-18-year-olds in educational institutions. This demonstrates a strong commitment to education in rural areas, fostering hope for the unlocking of India’s demographic dividend.

    Challenges and Failings

    • Foundational Skill Gaps: About 25% of the surveyed youths struggle to read Grade 2 text, and over 50% face difficulties with arithmetic skills expected by Grade 5. This underscores a significant deficit in foundational learning, impacting the quality of the country’s labor force.
    • Underutilization of Digital Technology: Despite the high availability of smartphones in rural households (95%), their use for educational purposes remains limited. This raises concerns about the untapped potential of technology in enhancing learning outcomes.
    • Gender Disparities: The report reveals disparities in reading, arithmetic, and digital skills between males and females. From performance in tasks to enrolment in STEM streams, gender gaps persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

    Reasons behind Low Foundational Skill Gaps

    • Inadequate Teacher-Student Ratio and Training: Nearly 8% of India’s schools have only one teacher, impacting the quality of education. Teachers often lack training in modern pedagogical methods, hindering students’ understanding of basic concepts.
    • Insufficient Learning Resources: Limited access to textbooks and learning materials outside the classroom affects students’ ability to practice and reinforce foundational skills.
    • Socioeconomic Disparities: Students from lower-income families face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of educational support at home, and limited access to extracurricular activities.

    Various Government Initiatives

    Several government initiatives aim to address these challenges:

    • Sarva Siksha Abhiyan (SSA): Strives for Universal Elementary Education (UEE).
    • NIPUN Bharat: Aims for universal foundational literacy and numeracy by 2025.
    • PM-POSHAN Scheme/Mid-Day Meal Scheme: Addresses nutritional needs of school-age children.
    • SWAYAM Programme: Focuses on access, equity, and quality in education.
    • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Abhiyan: Promotes girls’ education and transition at different levels.

    Key Recommendations by ASER 2023

    • Devolution of Grants: Disaggregate central and state grants to local bodies for direct transfer to schools.
    • Community Management of Schools: Encourage community-managed schools, with the private sector adopting schools for improvement.
    • Regular School-Parent Interactions: Build relationships with households to enhance parental involvement and improve learning outcomes.
    • Smartphone Use for Learning: Leverage smartphones to deliver online modules and interactive tests to supplement classroom teaching.
    • Innovative Learning Methods: Incorporate indoor and outdoor sports, cultural activities, play-way learning, video films, and sound boxes.
    • Development of Public Libraries: Strengthen public libraries to address the scarcity of learning resources.

    Conclusion

    • The positive trends in enrolment coupled with the identified shortcomings underscore the need for targeted interventions, innovative approaches, and community involvement.
    • As India aspires to harness its demographic dividend, addressing foundational skill gaps becomes imperative for fostering skilled and empowered youth capable of steering the nation towards progress and prosperity.

  • Better use of technology needs free access

    ASER 2023: Examining Education Beyond Basics

     

    Central Idea:

    The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023 highlights the widespread access to smartphones among 14-18 year olds in India, emphasizing the ownership gap between boys and girls. While most youth can use smartphones for basic tasks, ownership significantly impacts the depth of access to information and services. The study suggests that motivation, often fueled by entertainment during the COVID-19 pandemic, drives learning technology skills. Gender disparities in smartphone ownership contribute to variations in online participation, especially in certain services. Access to devices without constraints promotes self-learning, as evidenced by an earlier Pratham experiment.

     

    Key Highlights:

    • Widespread Smartphone Access: ASER 2023 reveals that 92% of surveyed 14-18 year olds in India know how to use a smartphone.
    • Ownership Disparities: Nearly half of boys own smartphones, while only 20% of girls possess one.
    • Impact on Skills: Ownership influences skills like using social media safety features, indicating deeper access and understanding.
    • Motivation and Learning: Motivation, driven by entertainment and the COVID-19 pandemic, plays a crucial role in acquiring smartphone skills.
    • Gender Disparities: Girls may show less participation in certain online activities, potentially due to social obstacles rather than technological barriers.
    • Educational Use: Regardless of ownership and gender, around 70% of youth report using phones for studies, but the impact on academic learning is unclear.

     

    Key Challenges:

    • Gender Disparities in Ownership: The significant gap in smartphone ownership between boys and girls may limit girls’ access to certain online services and skills.
    • Social Obstacles: Girls may face social barriers that affect their participation in online activities and use of certain features.
    • Impact on Learning: The ASER 2023 report does not conclusively determine the impact of smartphone use on academic learning and performance.
    • Inequality in Skills: Ownership disparities contribute to differences in skill levels, particularly in tasks requiring ownership, such as sharing videos.

     

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Smartphone Skills: Refers to the ability to effectively use and navigate smartphones, encompassing various tasks and applications.
    • Gender Disparities: Differences between boys and girls in terms of smartphone ownership, access, and skills.
    • Social Obstacles: Challenges related to societal norms and expectations that may hinder certain groups’ access to and use of technology.

     

    Key Quotes:

    • “Access to a common smartphone can be described as basic, but owning a smart device is necessary for deeper access to information and services.”
    • “Motivation to use and learn new technology came during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
    • “Girls seem to show less participation than boys in certain online services, which may have more to do with social obstacles than technological barriers.”

     

    Key Examples and References:

    • ASER 2023 Report: Provides comprehensive data on smartphone access, ownership, and skills among 14-18 year olds in India.
    • Pratham Experiment (2017): Demonstrates how children, given unfettered access to technology, can learn and adopt digital skills on their own.

     

    Key Facts and Data:

    • 92% of surveyed 14-18 year olds in India know how to use a smartphone.
    • Nearly half of boys and 20% of girls own smartphones.
    • Nearly 70% of youth, both boys and girls, report using phones for studies.

     

    Critical Analysis:

    • Ownership Impact: Ownership of smartphones significantly influences the depth of access to information and services.
    • Motivation and Learning: Motivation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, plays a pivotal role in driving self-learning of technology skills.
    • Gender Disparities: While access is widespread, gender disparities in ownership contribute to variations in online participation.

     

    Way Forward:

    • Addressing Gender Disparities: Initiatives to bridge the gender gap in smartphone ownership and access.
    • Promoting Digital Literacy: Educational programs emphasizing digital literacy, especially for girls, to overcome social obstacles.
    • Integration into Education: Exploring ways to integrate smartphones into education to enhance learning opportunities.
    • Understanding Impact: Further research to understand the impact of smartphone use on academic learning and performance.

     

    In summary, the ASER 2023 report underscores the importance of smartphone ownership in shaping deeper access and skills, with a focus on gender disparities. Motivation and overcoming social obstacles are crucial in promoting self-learning, and initiatives to address ownership gaps can contribute to a more inclusive digital landscape

  • ICMR to revisit current National Essential Diagnostics List (NEDL)

    Introduction

    • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has initiated the revision of the National Essential Diagnostics List (NEDL), acknowledging the evolving healthcare landscape since its first release in 2019.
    • This move aims to optimize the availability of essential diagnostic tests across all tiers of healthcare facilities in India.

    What is NEDL?

    • Inception: The NEDL extends and builds upon initiatives like the Free Diagnostics Service Initiative (FDI) under which was launched in July 2015 under National Health Mission (NHM).
    • Comprehensive List: The NEDL is designed to cater to all levels of healthcare, including village-level healthcare, primary care, secondary care, and tertiary care facilities.
    • Scope of Tests: The NEDL focuses on diagnostic tests essential for diseases with significant burdens, such as vector-borne diseases (Malaria, Dengue, Filariasis, Chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis), as well as Leptospirosis, Brucellosis, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis (A, B, C, and E), HIV, and Syphilis. Specific tests are marked as desirable, recommended for regions or states with high disease prevalence.
    • In Vitro Diagnostics (IVD): Alongside diagnostic tests, the NEDL recommends corresponding In Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) products, which are tests conducted on samples like blood or tissue taken from the human body.
    • Regulatory Guidance: The NEDL includes a comprehensive guidance document on the “Regulatory framework for diagnostics: National and International.”
    • Human Resources: It also recommends the allocation of human resources, such as ASHA workers, lab technicians, and pathologists, tailored to the proposed list of diagnostics for different healthcare levels.

    Significance of NEDL

    • Quality Assurance: The availability of quality-assured diagnostics enhances the optimal utilization of the Essential Medicine List (EML).
    • SDG Achievement: Implementation of the NEDL contributes to the realization of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.8, aiming for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
    • Enhanced Healthcare: The NEDL facilitates evidence-based healthcare, improving patient outcomes, reducing out-of-pocket expenses, and ensuring the effective use of public health facilities. It aids in disease burden assessment, trend analysis, surveillance, outbreak identification, and addressing antimicrobial resistance.
    • Standardization and R&D: The NEDL encourages the standardization of technology and diagnostic services, fostering research and development (R&D) for innovative diagnostics, ultimately leading to cost reduction.

    Revisiting the List: Careful Consideration Process

    • Disease Burden Analysis: The inclusion of diagnostic tests in the NEDL is based on rigorous assessments of disease burden data across India’s diverse states.
    • Alignment with National Programs: Tests align with national health programs to address specific health needs.
    • Adherence to Standards: The NEDL adheres to Indian public health standards and considers the necessary resources, infrastructure, and personnel required at each healthcare facility.

    Factors to Consider

    • Essential Test Criteria: Stakeholders are encouraged to propose tests that meet specific criteria:
      1. Priority for healthcare needs
      2. Alignment with disease prevalence and public health significance
      3. Demonstrated efficacy, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness
    • Impact on Disease Management: Tests should focus on conditions with high disease burdens and substantial public health relevance. The introduction of these tests should significantly enhance disease diagnosis and management.
    • Appropriate Utilization: Any proposed addition to the NEDL must align with the availability of equipment, infrastructure, and qualified personnel, by the Indian Public Health Standards of 2022.

    Conclusion

    • The revision of India’s National Essential Diagnostics List is a crucial step towards ensuring that essential diagnostic tests are accessible at all healthcare levels.
    • By aligning with disease burden data and adhering to stringent criteria, India aims to enhance its public health infrastructure, making diagnostics an integral part of healthcare delivery.
    • The involvement of stakeholders ensures a comprehensive and effective approach to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the nation.

  • Global Surgery: Why access to essential Surgery is important?

    Global Surgery

    Introduction

    • Global surgery, despite its critical importance, often remains in the shadows of global health initiatives.
    • This is particularly evident in South Asia, where the world’s largest population lacking access to essential surgery resides.

    Why discuss this?

    • Global surgery aims to address this disparity by focusing on equitable access to emergency and essential surgical care, encompassing a range of procedures.
    • While 2015 marked a turning point in recognizing the significance of global surgery, this field’s history goes back several decades.

    What is Global Surgery?

    • Equitable Access: Global surgery prioritizes providing equitable access to emergency and essential surgical care, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), but also in under-served populations within high-income countries (HICs).
    • Scope of Surgery: It encompasses essential and emergency surgeries, including surgery, obstetrics, trauma, and anaesthesia (SOTA).

    Emergence of Global Surgery

    • Annus Mirabilis of 2015: This year marked a pivotal moment in recognizing the global significance of surgical care.
    • Influential Reports: The Disease Control Priorities Network (DCPN) report sponsored by the World Bank and The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery (LCoGS) played key roles.
    • WHO Resolution 68.15: The World Health Organization Declaration on Safe Surgery highlighted the essential role of surgical systems in achieving universal health coverage.

    Magnitude of the Problem

    • Access Disparities: Over 70% of the global population, around five billion people, lack timely access to safe and affordable surgical care.
    • Regional Disparities: Access gaps are most severe in low- and lower-middle-income countries (LLMICs), with 99% and 96% of people facing disparities, compared to 24% in HICs.
    • South Asia’s Challenge: Over 1.6 billion people, over 98% of South Asia’s population, lack access to safe and affordable SOTA care.
    • Disease Burden: In 2010, surgically treatable conditions caused around 17 million deaths, surpassing the combined mortality burden of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.
    • Economic Impact: The cumulative projected loss to global GDP due to insufficient surgical care could reach $20.7 trillion by 2030.

    Current Efforts and Neglect

    • Neglect in Policies: Surgical care often receives little attention in international and national policies.
    • Limited Research Focus: Research in global surgery is underrepresented compared to global health.
    • Funding Neglect: Funding for surgery is significantly lower than for other health sectors.
    • Research Funding Disparity: Research funding for surgery-related projects is scarce compared to other health fields.

    Way Forward

    • Cost-Effectiveness: Global surgery has demonstrated that emergency and essential surgical care is cost-effective and cost-beneficial.
    • Policy Commitment: Many countries have initiated National Surgical, Obstetrics, and Anaesthesia Plans (NSOAPs), demonstrating political and policy commitment.
    • Positive Initiatives: Several South Asian countries have launched initiatives to expand surgical access.
    • Research and Innovation: Prioritizing research, policy support, and sustainable financing are key to addressing global surgery challenges.

  • Kerala’s Operation AMRITH to combat Antimicrobial Resistance

    Introduction

    • The Kerala Drug Control Department launched Operation Amrith (Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health), a significant initiative to curb the overuse of antibiotics in the state.

    Operation AMRITH

    • Objective: The initiative aims to optimize antibiotic use by preventing over-the-counter (OTC) sales and ensuring compliance with prescription requirements.
    • Pharmacy Regulations: Pharmacies are required to maintain accurate records of antibiotic sales and display notices stating that antibiotics will not be sold without a doctor’s prescription.
    • Public Participation: The initiative encourages public involvement by allowing individuals to report pharmacies that sell antibiotics without a prescription.

    Enforcement and Compliance

    • Surprise Raids: The program includes conducting surprise checks in retail medical shops to detect OTC sales of antibiotics.
    • Toll-Free Complaint Number: A toll-free number (18004253182) is provided for the public to lodge complaints against medical shops violating the rules.
    • Immediate Action: Complaints are swiftly transferred to relevant zonal offices for verification, followed by immediate departmental action upon confirmation of violations.

    Background and Context

    • Kerala’s AMR Strategy: Kerala was the first state in India to develop a state action plan on AMR, the Kerala Anti-Microbial Resistance Strategic Action Plan (KARSAP), in 2018.
    • Multi-Sectoral Approach: The plan, aligned with India’s National Action Plan on AMR, addresses human, animal, and environmental aspects of AMR containment.
    • Support and Collaboration: The plan was developed with contributions from the Centre for Science and Environment and involves various state departments in its implementation.
    • Surveillance Networks: The Kerala Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (KARS-NET) monitors AMR in humans, while an integrated plan covers non-human sector surveillance.
    • AMR Laboratory: The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) inaugurated an AMR laboratory for environmental surveillance in August 2023.
    • PROUD Initiative: The Programme on Removal of Unused Drugs (PROUD) is a drug take-back program piloted in Thiruvananthapuram for the proper disposal of unused antibiotics.

  • Are antibiotics over-prescribed in India?

    Current accounts of antimicrobial resistance: stabilisation, individualisation and antibiotics as infrastructure | Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

    Central Idea:

    The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) conducted a study revealing that over half of the surveyed hospital patients in India were given antibiotics preventively rather than for treatment. This overuse of antibiotics poses a significant risk as India already faces a high burden of drug-resistant pathogens, contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Experts Sumit Ray and Abdul Ghafur discuss the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to this issue, emphasizing the need for judicious antibiotic use and addressing systemic challenges.

    Key Highlights:

    • Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): AMR refers to microorganisms becoming resistant to antibiotics. India is grappling with high levels of drug-resistant bacteria, impacting patient outcomes negatively.
    • Factors Leading to AMR: Inappropriate antibiotic use, lack of rapid diagnostics, insufficient training, inadequate monitoring, and pharmaceutical industry incentives contribute to the rise of AMR.
    • NCDC Survey Findings: The survey showed that 55% of patients received antibiotics as a preventive measure, indicating a potential over-prescription issue.
    • Root Causes of Over-Prescription: Overcrowded hospitals, limited access to rapid diagnostics, and economic factors drive doctors to opt for antibiotics as a quicker and cheaper alternative.
    • Immediate Threat: The immediate danger is evident in the survey’s findings, with a significant percentage of patients exhibiting resistance to various generations of antibiotics, leading to poor health outcomes.
    • AMR as a Complex Challenge: AMR is not solely a medical issue but a complex challenge involving socio-economic, political, and infrastructural factors.

    Key Challenges:

    • Over-Prescription: Doctors tend to prescribe antibiotics unnecessarily due to factors like overcrowded hospitals, limited time for examinations, and inadequate diagnostic facilities.
    • Lack of Rapid Diagnostics: The absence of quick and affordable diagnostic tools contributes to the inappropriate use of antibiotics.
    • Systemic Issues: Weak governance, inadequate sanitation, poverty, and limited access to clean water are interconnected factors contributing to AMR.
    • Implementation Gap: Existing guidelines for antibiotic use exist, but there is a gap in their implementation, leading to over-prescription.
    • Incentivization in Pharma Industry: The pharmaceutical industry’s encouragement of certain prescribing practices exacerbates the problem.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Microorganisms becoming resistant to antibiotics.
    • Over-the-Counter Antibiotics: Antibiotics available without a prescription.
    • H1 Rule: Regulation prohibiting certain antibiotics without a prescription.
    • Colistin: A potent antibiotic, banned for growth promotion in poultry farming.
    • Third/Fourth-Generation Antibiotics: Antibiotics of advanced generations, facing resistance in bacterial strains.

    Key Quotes:

    • “I treat infections in cancer patients, who are the most immuno-compromised patients you can come across. Patients are losing their lives because of AMR.” – Abdul Ghafur
    • “What is essential is the linking of labs to all levels of clinical setups and the fast transmission of infection-related data between the lab and the clinician.” – Sumit Ray

    Key Examples and References:

    • National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) survey on antibiotic use in Indian hospitals.
    • Indian government’s 2019 ban on colistin use in poultry farming.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Overcrowded hospitals and limited diagnostic access drive over-prescription.
    • Addressing AMR requires a holistic approach, considering socio-economic factors.

    Way Forward:

    • Restrict access to reserve antibiotics to reduce resistance.
    • Improve public health systems, delivery, and sanitation to curb AMR.
    • Enforce existing laws, such as the ban on over-the-counter antibiotic sales.

    In conclusion, addressing the overuse of antibiotics in India requires a multifaceted approach, involving improvements in healthcare infrastructure, diagnostic capabilities, and enforcement of regulations. The goal is to mitigate the immediate threat of AMR and ensure the judicious use of antibiotics for effective treatment.

  • Why is Child Marriage still high in West Bengal?

    child marriage

    Introduction

    • Recent Study Insights: A Lancet study highlights the ongoing challenge of child marriage in India, with significant prevalence in states like West Bengal.
    • Focus on Four States: Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are noted for their high rates of child marriages, particularly among girls.

    Key Findings of the Lancet Study

    • Widespread Prevalence: The study reveals that one in five girls in India is married below the legal age, with notable disparities across states.
    • Rising Numbers in West Bengal: West Bengal has seen a significant increase in child marriages, with over 500,000 more girls married as children.

    Impact of Child Marriage

    • Human Rights Violation: Child marriage is recognized as a form of sexual and gender-based violence and a violation of human rights.
    • Health Consequences: The practice has detrimental effects on maternal and child health, as evidenced by incidents like infant deaths in Murshidabad.

    Policy Interventions in West Bengal

    • Kanyashree Prakalpa Scheme: A conditional cash transfer scheme aimed at encouraging education and discouraging child marriage among teenage girls.
    • Rupashree Prakalpa: A cash incentive scheme for the marriage of girls, which sometimes counteracts the objectives of Kanyashree.

    Challenges in Combating Child Marriage

    • Educational Strides vs. Child Marriage: Increased school enrollment of girls in West Bengal has not translated into a reduction in child marriage rates.
    • Literacy and Child Marriage Correlation: High literacy rates in certain districts have not led to a decrease in child marriage, indicating complex underlying factors.
    • Migration and Social Norms: Migration patterns and social norms contribute to the persistence of child marriage, with families marrying off daughters before migrating for work.

    Implementation of Laws and Regulations

    • Inadequate Law Enforcement: Despite existing laws like The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006, enforcement remains weak in West Bengal compared to other states.
    • Proposed Amendments: Efforts to raise the legal age of marriage for women to 21 years are underway, with the bill referred to a Parliamentary Standing Committee.

    Looking Ahead: Strategies for Change

    • Need for Comprehensive Approach: Addressing child marriage requires a multi-faceted approach involving panchayats, schools, local communities, and political will.
    • District Action Plans: The West Bengal government’s call for district action plans is a step forward, but effective implementation and social campaigns are crucial.
    • Enforcing Laws and Raising Awareness: Strengthening law enforcement and raising public awareness are key to reducing child marriage rates in West Bengal and across India.

    Conclusion

    • Persistent Challenge: Despite policy efforts, child marriage remains a significant issue in India, particularly in states like West Bengal.
    • Balancing Incentives and Enforcement: While schemes like Kanyashree and Rupashree aim to address the issue, balancing incentives with strict law enforcement is essential.
    • Collaborative Efforts for Change: A collaborative effort involving all stakeholders, along with a strong political commitment, is necessary to effectively combat child marriage and protect the rights of young girls.

  • Structured negotiation as a boost for disability rights

    Civil and Disability Rights in the USA | Rocky Mountain ADA

    Central Idea:

    Structured negotiation is an effective and collaborative approach for resolving disputes, particularly in disability rights cases. It emphasizes a win-win situation where defaulting service providers avoid the drawbacks of litigation, and complainants achieve barrier-free access to services.

    Key Highlights:

    • Success in addressing issues like inaccessible ATMs, point of sale devices, and websites.
    • Convincing major companies like Walmart, CVS, and Caremark to create accessible prescription bottles.
    • Driving institutional reform for more accessible voting machines and websites.
    • Win-win situation: Service providers avoid litigation costs, complainants gain accessible services.
    • Relies on a strong body of disabled-friendly legal precedents for success.

    Key Challenges:

    • Red tape and bureaucracy in Indian civil courts dissuading traditional dispute resolution methods.
    • PayTM incident highlights the challenge of real-time accessibility and constant vigilance.
    • Success depends on the willingness of service providers to prioritize the needs of persons with disabilities.

    Key Terms:

    • Structured negotiation
    • Disability rights, Litigation
    • Accessibility
    • Compliance
    • Win-win situation
    • PayTM
    • Alternative dispute resolution

    Key Phrases:

    • “Win-win situation”
    • “Barrier-free participation in the marketplace”
    • “Constant vigilance and user inputs”
    • “Level of priority from service providers”
    • “Enormous buying capacity of persons with disabilities”

    Key Quotes:

    • “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.” – Helen Keller

    Key Statements:

    • Structured negotiation offers a pathway for businesses to ensure accessibility without litigation.
    • Red tape in Indian civil courts poses a challenge to traditional dispute resolution.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Walmart, CVS, and Caremark creating accessible prescription bottles.
    • CCPD directing PayTM to make its mobile applications accessible.

    Key Facts:

    • Success in addressing issues related to ATMs, point of sale devices, and websites.
    • PayTM incident revealing challenges in real-time accessibility.

    Critical Analysis:

    Structured negotiation’s success relies on creating a strong foundation of disabled-friendly legal precedents. The challenges of bureaucracy and the need for constant vigilance in real-time accessibility highlight the potential limitations. The willingness of service providers to prioritize persons with disabilities is crucial for the model’s effectiveness.

    Way Forward:

    Businesses in India should prioritize the needs of disabled users and consider structured negotiation as a powerful step. The enormous buying capacity of persons with disabilities should be recognized, urging businesses to embrace accessibility for both legal compliance and economic benefits.

  • Kannada Signboard Controversy and Vandalism in Bengaluru

    kannada

    Introduction

    • Activists protested against non-Kannada signboards in Bengaluru, leading to vandalism across the city.

    Kannada Signboards Issue

    • Demand for Kannada Signboards: The issue dates back to the early 2000s when Bengaluru emerged as a global IT hub. The then Chief Minister S.M. Krishna issued a circular in 2002 for Kannada signboards, which lacked legal backing.
    • Legal Challenges: Attempts to mandate Kannada signboards faced legal hurdles, with the High Court staying and striking down related rules in 2009 and 2014.

    Recent Developments: Legislation and Protests

    • Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, 2022: The Act, passed by the State Legislature in 2022, mandates that 60% of signboards be in Kannada.
    • KRV’s Campaign: KRV campaigned for the implementation of this norm, leading to the protest and subsequent vandalism.
    • State Government’s Ordinance: The government plans to promulgate an ordinance to clarify the 60:40 rule for signboards and set a compliance deadline of February 28.

    Impact on Commercial Establishments

    • Anxiety among Businesses: The new rule has caused concern among retailers, with fears of increased vigilante actions and financial burdens due to signboard changes.
    • Opposition from Retailers: The Retailers Association of India and other business groups have opposed the mandate, citing its impact on Bengaluru’s cosmopolitan nature and brand image.

    Political Dynamics

    • Election Context: The issue has gained political significance ahead of the parliamentary polls, with both the Congress and BJP staking positions on the language issue.
    • Kannada as a Political Plank: Despite political consensus on promoting Kannada, the language has not been a successful political issue in the state.

    Concerns over Bengaluru’s Image

    • Brand Bengaluru at Risk: The vandalism and language controversy could potentially harm Bengaluru’s reputation as a global investment destination.
    • Calls for Government Action: Industry leaders and civic activists have urged the government to take measures to restore confidence and preserve the city’s inclusive culture.

    Conclusion

    • Need for Sensible Policy: The government faces the challenge of promoting Kannada while maintaining Bengaluru’s cosmopolitan and investor-friendly image.
    • Addressing Vandalism: Strong action against vandalism and a balanced approach to language policy are essential to prevent further damage to Bengaluru’s brand and social harmony.

  • Secularism and Multiculturalism in India and Europe

    Secularism and Multiculturalism

    Introduction

    • Prof. Akeel Bilgrami, a distinguished professor from Columbia University, delivered a lecture at Madras Christian College in Tambaram.
    • His talk, titled ‘Gandhi in his time and ours: Reflections on Secularism and Multiculturalism’, explored the nuances of secularism in India and Europe.

    Prof Bilgrami on Secularism

    He emphasized on three commitments primarily on which Secularism is based:

    1. Freedom of Religion: The first commitment emphasizes the freedom of religious belief and practice.
    2. Constitutional Principles: The second commitment involves principles unrelated to religion, such as equality and freedom of speech, enshrined in the constitution.
    3. Meta-Commitment: The third commitment dictates that in case of a clash between the first two, the constitutional principles must take precedence.

    Gandhi’s Perspective on Secularism

    • European Context: Gandhi viewed secularism as a doctrine to address the damage caused by religious majoritarianism in Europe.
    • Irrelevance to India: He believed that the issues secularism aimed to address in Europe were not present in India, making it irrelevant in the Indian context.
    • Nationalism and Anti-Imperialism: For Gandhi, nationalism was synonymous with anti-imperialism and inherently inclusive, contrasting with European forms of nationalism.

    Distinguishing Secularisation from Secularism

    • Secularisation: Prof. Bilgrami described secularisation as a social process involving the loss of religious belief and changes in religious practices.
    • Secularism: In contrast, secularism is a political doctrine advocating for the separation of religion from politics.

    Rejecting the Notion of ‘Indian’ Secularism

    • Misconception: Prof. Bilgrami dismissed the popular notion that ‘Indian’ secularism is about the acceptance of all religions.
    • Pluralism vs. Secularism: He clarified that the acceptance of all religions is more accurately described as pluralism, not secularism.

    Conclusion

    • Deeper Understanding: Prof. Bilgrami’s lecture provided a deeper understanding of secularism and its application in different contexts.
    • Relevance to Contemporary India: His insights are particularly relevant in contemporary India, where secularism and multiculturalism continue to be subjects of intense debate and discussion.
    • Future Discourse: The lecture sets the stage for further discourse on how secularism should be interpreted and implemented in India’s diverse and multi-religious society.

  • The need to examine the examination system

    The key reforms under India's new education policy | Mint

    Central Idea:

    The article discusses the challenges and inadequacies in the current examination systems of educational institutions in India. It emphasizes the need for transparency, oversight, and credibility in assessments to ensure that degrees and certificates truly reflect students’ learning achievements.

    Key Highlights:

    • Credibility of the examination system is crucial for maintaining educational standards.
    • Decentralized systems in India with numerous universities and boards face challenges in maintaining transparency and standardization.
    • The article criticizes the focus on memory-based testing, inflation of marks, and a lack of emphasis on higher-order thinking skills.
    • Employers often rely on their own assessments rather than institutional certifications.
    • The article suggests the use of technology, external audits, and adherence to minimum standards to improve assessment processes.

    Key Challenges:

    • Lack of transparency and oversight in examination processes.
    • Inconsistency and inadequacies in syllabi and teaching methods.
    • Confidentiality leading to malpractices and scandals in examinations.
    • The need for balancing autonomy with proper oversight in educational institutions.
    • Negligence, fraud, and quality issues in assessment processes.

    Key Terms:

    • Decentralized system
    • Transparency
    • Oversight
    • Standardization
    • Higher-order thinking
    • Autonomy
    • External audit
    • Credibility
    • Minimum standards
    • Technology in assessment

    Key Phrases:

    • “Credibility of assessment and standard of education can be ensured only through transparency in teaching and assessment.”
    • “Inconsistency of the examination system is cause for concern.”
    • “Confidentiality is also a cause for scandals in examinations.”
    • “Transparency and proper oversight take lead roles in the examination systems.”

    Key Quotes:

    • “A credible examination system is one of the key ways to improve the standard of education.”
    • “The employability of a graduate depends on higher order learning, while examination boards do not certify students on those skills.”
    • “The higher education regulator truly believes in decentralization through autonomous institutions without oversight.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Instances of question papers with language errors, conceptualization issues, and irrelevant questions.
    • Employers disregarding institutional certifications in favor of their own assessments.
    • The coaching market for competitive examinations and skilling due to a lack of faith in institutional certifications.

    Key Facts:

    • India has over 1,100 universities, 50,000 affiliated colleges, and 60 school boards.
    • Total enrollment in higher education is 40.15 million students.
    • Employers conduct rigorous assessments of candidates’ academic achievements and suitability for employment.

    Critical Analysis:

    The article provides a critical examination of the challenges in the current education system, emphasizing the need for transparency, oversight, and credibility. It highlights the disconnect between institutional certifications and actual learning outcomes, calling for a shift towards higher-order thinking skills.

    Way Forward:

    • Emphasize transparency in teaching and assessment processes.
    • Implement external audits of assessment systems to ensure reliability and consistency.
    • Balance autonomy with proper oversight in educational institutions.
    • Use technology to standardize question paper setting and evaluation processes.
    • Codify and address issues of negligence, fraud, and academic inadequacies in assessments.
    • Release audit reports regularly to assess examination boards in terms of transparency, reliability, and consistency.

  • Civil society under siege, in India

    COMMUNALISM IN INDIA (KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER) - Achievers IAS Classes

    Central Idea:

    • The article discusses the threats faced by India’s civic space, particularly organizations fighting against communalism. Emphasizes the importance of protecting constitutional freedoms.

    Key Highlights:

    • Constitutional freedoms are under siege in India’s diverse and vibrant civil society.
    • Organizations actively fighting communalism are facing severe attacks, affecting their funding and leadership.
    • The state employs various instruments, including legal charges, amendments to laws, and tax-related measures, to curb civic space.
    • Impact is significant on organizations supporting minority, Dalit, Adivasi rights, and equity promotion.

    Key Challenges:

    • High-intensity attacks leading to financial constraints and imprisonment for leaders of certain NGOs.
    • Shrinking civic space even for neutral or non-communal organizations.
    • Utilization of legal instruments like money laundering charges and investigations to intimidate NGOs.
    • Amendments to laws, such as the FCRA, restricting access to foreign funds for NGOs.
    • Intimidation of domestic donors through tax-related provisions.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Civic space
    • Constitutional freedoms
    • Anti-communal
    • NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations)
    • FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act)
    • Money laundering charges
    • Civic mobilization
    • Secularism
    • Adivasi rights
    • Human rights causes

    Key Quotes/Statements:

    • “The last bastion and ray of hope for India’s democracy is its civic space.”
    • “The scale of attack on organizations actively fighting against communalism is alarming.”
    • “The state employs a range of instruments to limit the civic space of various organizations.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Amnesty International, Centre for Equity Studies, Citizens for Justice and Peace, among others, facing severe attacks.
    • Greenpeace transitioning from high-intensity attacks to a lower level.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Amendments to the FCRA in 2010 and 2020 impacted around 18,000 NGOs between 2015 and 2022.
    • The 2020 amendments to the Income-Tax Act make renewals of NGO certificates mandatory every five years.
    • The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is empowered to investigate NGOs under the FCRA.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article presents a critical analysis of the state’s tactics to limit civic space, affecting organizations fighting against communalism.
    • It highlights the severity of attacks and the broader impact on democratic values.

    Way Forward:

    • Strengthening opposition and regional leaders who take a clear secular position.
    • Mobilizing anti-communal and progressive civic space to safeguard democracy.
    • Advocating for the protection of constitutional freedoms and reviewing stringent laws impacting NGOs.
    • Raising awareness about the importance of civic space in preserving India’s democracy.

  • Why is Upskilling necessary for the Rural Youth?

    upskill

    Introduction

    • Trend of Urbanization: Despite the UN’s projection that nearly 50% of India’s population will reside in urban areas by 2047, many rural youths express a preference to stay in their villages.
    • Life Skills Collaborative Discussion: A group discussion revealed that rural youth aspire to remain in their villages, highlighting the need to focus on those who choose not to migrate to urban areas.

    Rural Income Sources and Occupational Shifts

    • Primary Livelihood: Farming is the predominant source of income in rural areas, often supplemented by children working on family farms.
    • Agrarian Crisis Indicators: A significant shift from agriculture to non-farming jobs is occurring, with National Sample Survey Office data showing 34 million farmers moving to other sectors between 2004-05 and 2011-12.

    Strategies to Control Migration

    • Vocational Training: Providing vocational training in rural areas is key to controlling migration. This training should focus on skills relevant to rural life, allowing youth to secure livelihoods within their communities.
    • Educational Aspirations: Most rural students’ aspirations are limited to opportunities within their village vicinity. Upskilling initiatives like Delhi’s ‘Skills On Wheel’ should be made accessible in rural areas.

    Current State of Vocational Education in Rural India

    • Industrial Training Institutes: While these institutes aim to upskill rural populations, they often lack placement opportunities.
    • Lack of Skill Development Focus: Rural education currently does not emphasize skill development, which is crucial for the majority of youth who depend on schools for life skills.
    • LSC Voices 2023 Survey Findings: The survey revealed that two-thirds of youth aged 19-22 had never taken any vocational training, with only 5% enrolled in such courses.

    Improving Rural Education

    • Tailored Education: Rural education should integrate technical and life skills, making them accessible through formal education.
    • International Examples: Mexico’s tele-schools and Bhutan’s well-being-infused curriculum offer valuable models. Tele-schools provide value-based education, improving attitudes and aspirations, which can benefit the local economy.
    • Indian Initiatives: Organizations like NIIT Foundation and Pratham Institute are providing upskilling opportunities in rural areas. Hybrid life skilling programs are offered, focusing on industry-specific skills and life skills.

    Conclusion

    • Empowering Rural Youth: By offering skills in areas like agricultural mechanisation, pollution monitoring, nursing, and digital technologies, rural India can enhance employability in both traditional and non-traditional trades.
    • Creating a Dynamic Economy: Effective vocational training and education reforms can lead to a vibrant rural economy, where the aspirations of staying in villages are supported by sustainable livelihood opportunities.

  • The blood management system needs a fresh infusion

    In defence of Syed Ahmad Afzal's 'Laal Rang' – Cafe Dissensus Everyday

    Central Idea:

    The article emphasizes the importance of addressing global disparities in blood collection and management for a resilient health system. It highlights the need for public-private partnerships, dispelling myths around blood donation, and implementing innovative models like the hub and spoke system to ensure equitable access to safe blood and its products.

     

    Key Highlights:

    • Global disparities in blood collection pose a challenge to healthcare systems worldwide.
    • Shortages in blood units impact critical healthcare services, risking lives and affecting surgeries and transplants.
    • The hub and spoke model, involving high-volume blood banks and smaller centers, can optimize blood distribution and reduce wastage.

    Seeing red: Randeep Hooda is out for blood in Laal Rang

    Case study to fetch good marks 

    “Lal Rang,” starring Randeep Hooda, unfolds the life-threatening impact of blood shortages in a small town, where individuals resort to illegal blood trade out of desperation. The movie underscores the urgent need for systemic improvements, showcasing the potential role of public-private partnerships and awareness campaigns.

    Key Challenges:

    • Global inequities in blood collection, with low-income countries receiving a disproportionately small share.
    • Persistent shortage of blood units in countries like India, affecting healthcare services and putting lives at risk.
    • Misconceptions around voluntary blood donation hinder efforts to address shortages.

    Key Terms:

    • Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
    • Hub and Spoke Model
    • Blood Management Ecosystem
    • Voluntary Blood Donation
    • Global Disparities

     

    Key Phrases:

    • “Innovative models for blood collection and distribution.”
    • “Optimizing utilization through the hub and spoke model.”
    • “Dispelling myths around voluntary blood donation.”

     

    Key Quotes:

    • “The hub and spoke model is one such innovative method where high-volume blood banks act as a hub for smaller blood centers.”
    • “Over the course of three years, a surplus of 30 lakh blood units and related products were discarded due to expiration, degradation, and infections.”

     

    Key Examples and References:

    • The World Health Organization’s report on global disparities in blood collection.
    • Data points in Parliament revealing the discard of blood units over three years.
    • The study by Savitribai Phule Pune University highlighting the impact of blood shortages on accident victims.

     

    Key Statements:

    • “As we leave the COVID-19 pandemic behind us, the health paradigm must be prepared accordingly, with a focus on blood management.”
    • “Proactive engagement from the industry and active citizen participation are pivotal aspects of this concerted effort.”

     

    Key Facts:

    • India faced a shortage of over six lakh blood units in 2019-20 despite improvements in the blood management ecosystem.
    • The hub and spoke model can address critical gaps in blood availability, especially in resource-constrained settings.
    • A surplus of 30 lakh blood units and related products were discarded over three years due to various reasons.

     

    Critical Analysis:

    The article critically examines the global disparities in blood collection and the impact of shortages on healthcare services. It emphasizes the need for innovative solutions like the hub and spoke model while addressing misconceptions around voluntary blood donation.

     

    Way Forward:

    • Strengthen public-private partnerships to improve blood collection and distribution.
    • Implement the hub and spoke model to optimize blood utilization and reduce wastage.
    • Conduct targeted awareness campaigns to dispel myths and encourage voluntary blood donation.