Civilsdaily

Subject: Indian Society

  • Making public education inclusive

    Practising inclusive education in India: Taking the agenda forward – Cambridge Network for Disability and Education Research (CaNDER). © All Rights Reserved.

    Central idea

    Odisha revolutionizes public education with initiatives like Odisha Adarsha Vidyalayas, ‘Mo School’ Abhiyan, and 5T-High School Transformation, aiming to surpass private schools in quality. This results in a substantial shift, with 81% of students currently enrolled in government schools. The state’s commitment to inclusivity, alumni engagement, and technology integration drives equality and excellence in education.

    Key Highlights:

    • Revolutionary Reforms: Odisha’s education sector undergoes revolutionary changes through initiatives like Odisha Adarsha Vidyalayas, ‘Mo School’ Abhiyan, and 5T-High School Transformation Programme.
    • Recognition and Ranking: OAVs receive accolades, with one ranked the fifth-best in government-run day schools, emphasizing qualitative English-medium education for rural and semi-urban areas.
    • Inclusive Enrollment: OAVs ensure representation of marginalized groups, leading to a higher enrollment of female students. They also rescue and prepare vulnerable children for OAV entrance exams.
    • Alumni Engagement: Mo School Abhiyan connects schools with alumni, promoting mentorship, collaboration, and financial contributions, creating a significant impact on infrastructure and engagement.

    Key Phrases:

    • Quality Education: Odisha’s focus on continuous teacher education, technology integration, and maintaining a favorable teacher-pupil ratio highlights its commitment to providing quality education.
    • Alumni Community: Mo School Abhiyan leverages the alumni community to contribute to school development, creating a unique model of collaborative efforts for educational improvement.
    • 5T-High School Transformation: The 5T concept drives the High School Transformation Programme, emphasizing transparency, technology, teamwork, and timeliness for comprehensive educational changes.

    UNFPA India | Empowering Adolescents in Odisha through Life Skills Education

    Analysis:

    Odisha’s proactive approach to education, combining infrastructure development, alumni engagement, and technology integration, has led to a significant shift in enrollment patterns, with a majority of students now choosing government schools.

    Key Data:

    • Enrollment Shift: In 2019-20, private schools had 16,05,000 students; in 2021-22, this number reduced to 14,62,000, indicating a shift towards government schools.
    • Financial Contributions: More than 5.5 lakh contributors, including ministers, MPs, and professionals, have contributed over ₹797 crore in 40,855 schools under the School Adoption Programme.

    Key Terms:

    • Odisha Adarsha Vidyalayas (OAV): A model aiming to bridge the rural-urban education gap by providing qualitative and affordable English-medium education.
    • Mo School Abhiyan: An initiative connecting schools with alumni, promoting collaboration, contributions, and celebrating successes to improve government schools.
    • 5T-High School Transformation Programme: Rooted in transparency, technology, teamwork, and timeliness, focusing on technological advancements and holistic development in high schools.

    Challenges:

    • Parental Trust: Historical perceptions of poor education quality in government schools challenge rebuilding parental trust.
    • Affordability Concerns: Despite reforms, concerns persist regarding the economic accessibility of quality education in government schools.
    • Perceived Quality Gap: Overcoming the perception gap regarding the quality of education in government schools compared to private counterparts.
    • Economic Accessibility: Addressing financial barriers for families, ensuring that quality education remains economically accessible.

    Way Forward:

    • Continuous Alumni Engagement: Strengthen collaborations between schools and alumni to maintain a sustained focus on improvement. Explore mentorship programs and alumni-led initiatives for ongoing school development.
    • Enhancing Perceived Value: Implement awareness campaigns highlighting the positive changes in government schools. Showcase success stories and academic achievements to alter perceptions.
    • Financial Inclusivity: Introduce scholarship programs or financial aid to address economic barriers. Collaborate with governmental and non-governmental organizations to provide educational subsidies.
    • Technology Integration: Expand technological resources in schools for interactive and enhanced learning experiences. Introduce digital literacy programs to prepare students for a technology-driven future.

  • Why the tribal factor may hurt the BJP in Madhya Pradesh

    Election 2023: मध्य प्रदेश में 15 आदिवासी सीटों पर अधिक मतदान भाजपा ने माना संजीवनी - Election 2023 More voting in 15 tribal seats in Madhya Pradesh BJP considered it a lifeline

    Central idea

    The article explores the significant role of tribal votes in the 2023 Madhya Pradesh assembly election, focusing on the competition between Congress and BJP for tribal support. It traces the historical evolution of tribal politics in the region, highlighting key factors influencing tribal voting patterns. The central theme revolves around the ongoing battle for tribal empowerment, with promises and challenges shaping the political landscape in Madhya Pradesh.

    Key Highlights:

    • Tribal Electoral Battleground: The 2023 Madhya Pradesh assembly election is marked by a fierce struggle between Congress and BJP for the pivotal tribal vote, constituting 21% of the state’s population.
    • Political Activism: Over decades, tribal communities have become politically active, influencing electoral outcomes and reshaping the state’s political dynamics.
    • Historical Contestation: The political contest for tribal support intensified in the 1990s, with Congress historically dominant but facing challenges as the BJP strategically entered tribal areas.
    • Fluid Voting Patterns: Tribal voting, historically with Congress, has witnessed shifts, creating a dynamic landscape for both major parties.

    Challenges:

    • Shifting Political Alliances: Historical Congress dominance faces challenges, with BJP making strategic inroads, making the tribal vote a pivotal factor.
    • Unresolved Policy Demands: Tribals express concerns about autonomy, job creation, forest conservation, and access to government welfare schemes, posing challenges for effective electoral strategies.
    • Dynamic Tribal Voting: The fluid nature of tribal voting patterns adds complexity to electoral strategies, requiring adaptable and responsive political approaches.
    • Competing Electoral Narratives: The battle for tribal votes involves competing promises and narratives, with Congress emphasizing empowerment through policies like the Sixth Schedule and PESA, while BJP highlights welfare initiatives and cultural ties.

    Key Phrases:

    • Empowerment Pledges: Congress commits to implementing the Sixth Schedule, enacting PESA, and raising tendu patta rates. BJP emphasizes welfare initiatives and cultural connections.
    • Political Mobilization: Grassroots efforts by Vanvasi Kalyan Parishad and RSS play a pivotal role in BJP’s success in tribal areas.
    • Party Dynamics: The rise and decline of smaller parties like GGP and the emergence of JAYS signify the evolving political landscape in tribal-dominated regions.
    • Historical Turnovers: Post-Independence, Congress dominance in tribal areas faced challenges, with a bi-polar contest emerging in the 2003 elections and subsequent turnovers.

    Analysis:

    • Political Dynamics: The historical shift from Congress to BJP dominance in tribal areas reflects evolving political strategies and grassroots mobilization.
    • Voter Behavior: Grievances against the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led BJP government and demands for autonomy, job creation, and forest rights significantly influenced tribal voting patterns in the 2018 elections.
    • Historical Voting Trends: The 2003 elections marked the beginning of a bi-polar contest, with Congress gaining ground in 2008 and 2018, showcasing the dynamic nature of tribal votes.
    • Influence of Grassroots Movements: The sustained efforts of organizations like Vanvasi Kalyan Parishad and RSS contributed to BJP’s success in entering tribal areas.

    Key Data:

    • Tribal Population Impact: Constitutes 21% of Madhya Pradesh, with 48 out of 230 assembly seats reserved for tribal communities.
    • Voter Turnout Surge: Tribal voter turnout rises significantly, reaching 76.39% in the 2018 assembly elections, indicating increased political consciousness.
    • Party Strength: Congress relies on tribal leaders like Umang Singhar, Bala Bachchan, and Kantilal Bhuria for securing seats in tribal-dominated areas.
    • BJP Initiatives: BJP highlights the appointment of Droupadi Murmu as the first tribal woman president and announces a Rs 24,000 crore welfare program for tribal communities.

    Key Facts:

    • Prominent Figures: Congress relies on tribal leaders like Umang Singhar, Bala Bachchan, and Kantilal Bhuria to secure seats in tribal-dominated areas.
    • BJP Initiatives: BJP highlights the appointment of Droupadi Murmu as the first tribal woman president and announces a Rs 24,000 crore welfare program for tribal communities.
    • Shift in Voting Patterns: The 2018 elections witnessed a reversal, with Congress obtaining 32 seats and BJP 16, reflecting changing voter sentiments.
    • Role of Grassroots Movements: Organizations like Vanvasi Kalyan Parishad and RSS played a crucial role in BJP’s success in entering tribal areas.

    Way Forward:

    • Inclusive Policies: Future success hinges on inclusive policies addressing tribal demands for autonomy, job opportunities, and access to welfare schemes.
    • Collaborative Governance: A collaborative approach between mainstream parties and tribal communities is crucial to ensure effective representation and address long-standing grievances.
    • Responsive Electoral Strategies: Adaptable and responsive political approaches are essential to navigate the dynamic nature of tribal voting patterns.
    • Effective Policy Implementation: Resolving policy demands related to autonomy, job creation, forest conservation, and welfare schemes becomes pivotal in securing tribal votes.

  • What can a domestic violence survivor do when the justice system lets her down?

    What Is Domestic Abuse? | United Nations

    Central idea

    The article talks about how women facing domestic violence in India struggle to get justice due to biases in the legal system. It mentions challenges like police not taking complaints seriously and judges making unfair comments. To make things better, it suggests that judges should be fair, and the media should report responsibly to help women get the justice they deserve.

    Key Highlights:

    • Systemic Flaws in Legal Process: The study of 4 lakh FIRs in Haryana exposes inherent biases against women, revealing flaws from the filing of complaints to the conviction process.
    • NGO’s Testimony on Domestic Violence: Majlis, an NGO in Mumbai, provides a firsthand account of the grave domestic violence faced by women, spanning physical, economic, verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse.
    • Alarming Crime Rates: India witnesses rising crimes against women, with 21 daily dowry-related deaths and 4 lakh cases under Section 498A of the IPC in 2019, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change.

    Challenges:

    • Reluctance to File FIRs: Police reluctance persists despite legal provisions, steering victims towards counseling instead of criminal complaints, hindering justice for domestic violence victims.
    • Patriarchal Mindset Impact: The police’s apathy is rooted in a patriarchal mindset, exacerbated by demeaning comments from the judiciary, contributing to the perception that women misuse legal provisions.
    • Impact on Victim Hope: Women turned away by police often lose hope, leading to dire consequences, such as suicide or murder, highlighting the severity of the challenges in obtaining justice.

    Analysis:

    • Stereotype Reinforcement: Demeaning comments, accusing women of misusing Section 498A, perpetuate stereotypes and contribute to the reluctance of police in handling domestic violence cases.
    • Judiciary’s Role in Victim Perception: Judicial comments play a significant role in shaping public perception, impacting the willingness of women to seek justice for domestic violence.
    • Need for Judicial Sensitivity: Recognizing the need for sensitivity in judicial language and approach to avoid further victimization of women seeking legal recourse.

    Key Data for mains value addition:

    • Dowry-Related Deaths: NCRB reports highlight disturbing statistics, indicating 21 daily dowry-related deaths and 4 lakh cases under Section 498A in 2019, underscoring the urgency for intervention.
    • Prevalence of Domestic Violence: National Family Health Survey 5 (2019-20) data reveals that 30% of women (over 20 crore) experience physical violence, emphasizing the widespread nature of the issue.
    • Need for Data-Driven Interventions: Utilizing crime statistics to inform targeted interventions and policy measures is crucial for addressing the increasing rates of crimes against women.

    Way Forward:

    • Sensitization Programs: Implementing sensitization programs to eliminate the patriarchal mindset within the police force, fostering a more empathetic and proactive approach.
    • Legal Procedure Adherence: Ensuring strict adherence to legal procedures in handling domestic violence cases to prevent police reluctance and promote efficient and unbiased investigations.
    • Continuous Training: Continuous training programs for law enforcement officers to enhance their understanding of the complexities surrounding domestic violence cases.
    • Unbiased Judgment Enforcement: Establishing mechanisms to hold the judiciary accountable for unbiased judgments, discouraging sweeping generalizations and ensuring fair treatment of domestic violence cases.
    • Judicial Education Initiatives: Advocating for ongoing judicial education on domestic violence issues to keep judges informed and sensitive to the unique challenges faced by victims.

    Conclusion:

    The multifaceted challenges women face in obtaining justice for domestic violence necessitate a holistic approach involving legal reforms, sensitization programs for law enforcement, and responsible media reporting. Addressing systemic biases, legal loopholes, and societal perceptions is essential for meaningful change and ensuring justice for victims of domestic violence.

  • Branded, generic and the missing ingredient of quality

     

    What are Generic Medicines and why are they affordable?

    What is the news?

    Following the Indian Medical Association’s protest, the NMC has withdrawn the order on ‘generic prescribing’ since August 23, 2023

    Central idea

    The article highlights challenges in India’s healthcare system, emphasizing the struggle between generic and brand prescriptions. It discusses the alleged nexus between pharmaceutical companies and doctors, quality assurance concerns, and the need for comprehensive measures to ensure affordable and reliable access to medicines. The withdrawal of the generic prescribing order reflects ongoing complexities in achieving universal healthcare goals.

     

    Key Highlights:

    • Over-the-Counter Medical Sales in India: Patients often seek second opinions from non-qualified individuals in medical shops, with queries ranging from medicine strength to potential side effects.
    • Generic vs. Brand Names: The National Medical Council (NMC) directed doctors to prescribe generic names over brand names, emphasizing the cost factor and the affordability of generic names. The Hathi Committee in 1975 supported the gradual phasing out of brand names.
    • Alleged Nexus and Ethical Commitment: An alleged nexus between pharmaceutical companies and doctors exists, but medical associations stress their ethical commitment to improving access to affordable medicines.
    • Quality Assurance Concerns: Concerns about the quality of medicines persist, with a prevalence rate of 4.5% for spurious and 3.4% for “not standard quality” medicines. The need for 100% quality-tested drugs is crucial for patient safety.
    • Government’s Role: The government is urged to ensure quality through Universal Health Coverage and private healthcare networks, with calls for periodic sampling, banning batches that fail quality tests, and taking punitive actions against manufacturers.

    Challenges:

    • Quality Assurance Implementation: Existing mechanisms for quality assurance are not earnestly implemented, raising concerns about the reliability of the system.
    • Enforcement of Generic Prescription: The moral dilemma in enforcing generic prescription without concrete evidence of standard quality poses a challenge in the healthcare system.
    • Availability of Essential Medicines: The low availability rate of essential medicines, especially pediatric medicines, hampers the effective treatment of patients.
    • Unscientific Combinations: The presence of unscientific combinations of medicines in the retail market adds complexity to the pharmaceutical landscape.

    Analysis:

    • Role of the Chemist: Concerns revolve around the chemist or less knowledgeable salesperson determining the brand, potentially based on profit motives, impacting the choice of medicines.
    • Withdrawal of Generic Prescription Order: The withdrawal of the NMC order on generic prescribing, following the Indian Medical Association’s protest, reflects the ongoing challenges in healthcare policy.
    Case study to improve answer quality

    The Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation Limited’s practice, where all supplied medicines are kept under quarantine stock till double blinded samples are cleared in quality testing by government and private sector laboratories, is worth replicating.

    Key Data:

    • Prevalence of Spurious and NSQ Medicines: National drug surveys in the last 10 years indicate prevalence rates of 4.5% for spurious and 3.4% for “not standard quality” medicines, highlighting the need for stricter quality control.
    • Availability of Essential Pediatric Medicines: A study in Chhattisgarh in 2010 found only a 17% availability rate of essential pediatric medicines, indicating a significant gap in accessibility.

    Way Forward:

    • Government Assurance and Evidence: The government should provide concrete evidence of the standard quality of medicines before enforcing generic prescriptions, ensuring patient safety.
    • Comprehensive Measures: Implementing comprehensive measures, such as limiting profit margins for wholesale and retail agents, is crucial for creating a transparent and fair pharmaceutical ecosystem.
    • Janaushadhi Kendras Expansion: Expanding the network of Janaushadhi kendras is essential to improve accessibility to affordable medicines and promote their widespread availability.
    • Monitoring Implementation: Ensuring proper implementation and monitoring of policies for free medicines and diagnostics under Universal Health Care is vital for the success of healthcare initiatives.
    • Addressing Profit Motives: Addressing profit motives influencing the choice of medicines by chemists and salespersons is essential for a patient-centric healthcare system.

    Conclusion:

     

    The withdrawal of the generic prescribing order is seen as a step back in achieving universal access to affordable generic medicines. Addressing quality concerns, ensuring availability, and monitoring implementation are crucial for a successful healthcare system.

  • Debate over Appropriate Age of Admission to Class 1

    age

    Central Idea

    • The age at which children should begin formal education has been a topic of debate and discussion, with variations in policies and practices among different states and countries.
    • Understanding the rationale behind these age criteria is crucial for shaping educational policies that align with the needs and development of young learners.

    NEP 2020 and Minimum Age for Class 1

    • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: NEP 2020 introduces a “5+3+3+4” structure for formal schooling, emphasizing early childhood education for ages 3 to 5 years.
    • Minimum Age for Class 1: According to NEP 2020, a child should be 6 years old to enroll in Class 1, following three years of early childhood education.

    Recent News and Policy Implementation

    • Union Education Ministry’s Efforts: The Union Education Ministry has urged states to align their Class 1 admission age with NEP 2020’s recommendation.
    • Kendriya Vidyalayas Case: Last year, Kendriya Vidyalayas increased the admission age to align with NEP 2020, leading to a legal challenge that was ultimately dismissed.
    • Delhi Government’s Decision: This year, the Delhi government decided to maintain its existing guidelines, permitting Class 1 admission below the age of 6.

    Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009

    • RTE Act’s Age Provision: RTE Act guarantees education from ages 6 to 14, implying that elementary education (Class 1) should begin at age 6.
    • Historical Perspective: The age of 6 was chosen based on global practices and historical references, including Mahatma Gandhi’s basic education principles.

    Research on Entry Age for Formal Education

    • David Whitebread’s Research: Studies comparing early literacy lessons starting at ages 5 and 7 in New Zealand showed no significant advantage for early introduction to formal learning.
    • Reading Achievement Study: A study across 55 countries found no significant association between reading achievement and school entry age.

    Global Practices in Starting Formal Education

    • Standard Age of 6: Many East Asian and European countries start formal education at age 6, with younger children often attending preschool.
    • Scandinavian Approach: Scandinavian countries typically begin formal education at age 7, supported by universal child care for younger children.
    • US and UK Variation: The USA and UK stand out as countries where children generally start school at age 5, with varying childcare provisions.

    Conclusion

    • The debate over the appropriate age for starting formal education encompasses a range of factors, including developmental readiness, educational goals, and cultural norms.
    • Understanding the diverse approaches and research findings can inform policymakers as they strive to create educational systems that best serve the needs of young learners.

  • Reviving Adultery as a Criminal Offense

    Adultery

    Central Idea

    • The Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs has proposed the reintroduction of adultery as a criminal offense in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, a law designed to replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860.
    • The committee’s recommendations have sparked a debate on the legal position of adultery and its implications on constitutional rights and gender equality.

    Adultery De-Criminalization in India

    • Adultery in IPC (1860): Until 2018, Section 497 of the IPC defined adultery as a criminal offense, penalizing only men for engaging in adulterous relationships.
    • Supreme Court’s Verdict (Joseph Shine vs. Union of India, 2018): The Supreme Court unanimously struck down Section 497, citing discrimination and violations of fundamental rights.

    Parliamentary Committee’s Recommendations

    • Gender-Neutral Adultery: The Committee suggests reinstating adultery as a criminal offense but making it gender-neutral, applicable to both men and women.
    • Safeguarding Marriage Sanctity: The Committee argues that safeguarding the sanctity of marriage is crucial and justifies criminalizing adultery.

    Legal and Constitutional Implications

    • Discrimination and Violation of Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court’s verdict in Joseph Shine case highlighted the discriminatory nature of Section 497 and its violation of Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Constitution.
    • Autonomy of Women: The judgment emphasized women’s autonomy and dignity, asserting that husbands do not possess legal sovereignty over their wives.
    • Privacy and Matrimonial Sphere: Adultery as a criminal offense intrudes into the privacy of the matrimonial sphere, which is better left as a ground for divorce.
    • Relic of Victorian Morality: The Court deemed Section 497 as a relic of Victorian morality that treats women as chattels and property of their husbands.

    Can the Supreme Court’s Decision Be Overturned?

    • Parliament’s Authority: While Parliament cannot directly overturn a Supreme Court ruling, it can pass legislation that addresses the basis of the court’s judgment.
    • Validating Legislation: Parliament can enact validating legislation that changes the circumstances under which the court’s judgment was rendered, effectively altering the legal landscape.

    Conclusion

    • The debate surrounding the reintroduction of adultery as a criminal offence is fraught with legal, constitutional, and societal implications.
    • It calls for a nuanced examination of individual rights, gender equality, and the sanctity of marriage within the framework of Indian law and society.

  • A former Police Commissioner writes: How the criminal justice system can serve women better

    Dr. Meeran Chadha Borwankar: IPS, Lawyer | India | Official Site

    Central idea

    The article highlights gender-based challenges in India’s criminal justice system, citing delays and discrimination against women complainants. Despite increased representation and specialized stations, the study in Haryana indicates persistent issues. The central idea emphasizes the need for reforms, gender sensitivity, and equal treatment within the justice system.

    Key Highlights:

    • Justice System Accessibility: Citizens face challenges accessing the criminal justice system in India due to police station unapproachability, court delays, and outdated forensic equipment.
    • Gender Disparities: The study reveals “multi-dimensional discrimination” against women in the justice system, with differential treatment at all stages and levels.
    • All-Women Police Stations: Despite efforts, the study, focused on Haryana, suggests that women face delays, dismissals, and lower conviction rates in cases where they are complainants.
    • Limited Representation: While more women are joining the justice system, the study emphasizes the need for increased sensitivity and recruitment drives for female officers.

    Challenges:

    • Police Station Atmosphere: Unfriendly police stations, especially for women, contribute to delays and hinder justice delivery.
    • Legal System Inefficiencies: Overworked prosecutors, court delays, and overcrowded prisons impact the overall efficiency of the justice system.
    • Gender Bias: Discrimination against women at various stages, including delayed investigations and dismissals, poses a significant challenge.
    • Recruitment Delays: Achieving the 33% reservation target for women in police stations may take another decade, delaying the improvement of gender sensitivity.

    India's Criminal Justice System is Failing Victims of Sexual Violence — Global Issues

    Key Phrases:

    • Multi-dimensional Discrimination: The study identifies pervasive gender-based discrimination throughout the justice system.
    • All-Women Police Stations: Initially created to address women’s concerns, the study questions the effectiveness of this approach.
    • Delayed Investigations: Cases with women complainants experience longer waiting times and fewer registrations.
    • Lower Conviction Rates: Women complainants have a lower chance of seeing the accused being sent to prison.

    Analysis:

    • Insufficient Gender Sensitivity: Despite efforts to increase women’s representation, the study suggests that sensitivity and fair treatment are lacking in investigations and trials.
    • Systemic Inequalities: The research highlights systemic issues leading to dismissals, delays, and lower conviction rates for cases with women complainants.
    • Need for Effective Monitoring: Effective monitoring systems are essential to ensure equal treatment for all genders throughout the justice process.
    • Research Limitations: While the study raises crucial issues, the lack of validation from police or judicial officers in Haryana raises questions about the data’s accuracy.

    Key Data for answer enrichment:

    • Representation: Women constitute only around 12% of the police force, emphasizing the need for increased recruitment.
    • Conviction Rate: India struggles with less than a 60% conviction rate, reflecting inefficiencies in the justice system.
    • Reservation Target: Achieving the 33% reservation target for women in police stations may take another decade.
    • Haryana Sample: The study focuses on Haryana, providing insights into the state-specific challenges faced by women in the justice system.

    Way Forward:

    • Increased Recruitment: Urgent recruitment drives are needed to enhance gender diversity in police stations and improve sensitivity.
    • Efficient Justice System: Addressing inefficiencies, overhauling procedures, and providing adequate resources are essential for an accessible and fair justice system.
    • Effective Monitoring: Implementing robust monitoring systems ensures consistent and unbiased treatment for all genders.
    • Research Validation: Future research should involve direct interactions with police and judicial officers for accurate data validation and a comprehensive understanding of the issues.

  • The Bihar caste survey and the social justice agenda

    Bihar Caste Census Report:जातीय जनगणना की रिपोर्ट जारी, राज्य में 63% ओबीसी, कई चौंकाने वाले आंकड़े सामने आए - Bihar Caste Census: Nitish Kumar Bihar Government Declared Bihar Caste Survey ...

    Central idea

    Bihar’s caste census is a significant step, yet modernizing caste politics faces hurdles with global economic changes, an authoritative government, and assertive Hindutva ideology. To lead in this complexity, Bihar can pioneer a nuanced, coalition-based approach, reshaping caste politics for the 21st century.

    Key Highlights:

    • Historic Steps: Bihar takes significant strides in social justice by conducting a caste census and revealing socio-economic data associated with different castes.
    • Leadership Challenge: The RJD-JD(U) coalition faces a critical juncture in utilizing caste survey data for an effective social justice agenda, beyond mere reservation expansions.
    • Global Economic Situation: Neoliberal policies demand innovative approaches for mass employment (decent work).
    • Authoritarian Regime: India experiences an authoritarian shift impacting constitutional norms and federal structures.
    • Upper-Caste Hegemony: A visible rise of aggressive north-Indian Hindu upper-caste dominance through Hindutva ideology.
    • Internal Differentiations: Complex internal variations within major caste groups challenge traditional one-dimensional caste politics.

    Key Data for enhancing answer quality:

    • “Formal Sector Jobs”: Despite market-friendly policies, the formal sector of the Indian economy offers less than 8% of all jobs.
    • “Reservation Expansion”: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s announcement of expanding reservations to 65%.
    • “Resistance Against Hindutva”: Bihar’s historical role in resisting Hindutva politics, along with other states like Karnataka, Kerala, and Rajasthan.
    • “Erosion of Indian Federalism”: The resistance against the erosion of Indian federalism, with Bihar contributing to the assertion of State rights.

    Key Terms for value addition:

    • Caste Census,
    • Neoliberal Policies,
    • Authoritarian Regime,
    • Hindutva Ideology,
    • Internal Caste Differentiations, 
    • Portrait vs. Proxy Model,
    • Evolution of Caste Politics, 
    • State Rights Assertion, 

    Challenges:

    • Neoliberal Constraints: Limited formal sector jobs despite market-friendly policies pose a challenge for reducing caste inequalities.
    • Authoritarian Shift: Constitutional norms, checks and balances eroded by an authoritarian regime, altering the Indian state’s shape.
    • Hindutva Ideology: Overt and aggressive upper-caste dominance through Hindutva challenges secularism, creating a one-dimensional Hindu identity.
    • Internal Caste Differentiations: Diverse class interests within castes require a coalitional approach, potentially leading to unpredictable consequences.

    Analysis:

    • Changing Caste Politics: The article highlights the need for evolving caste politics beyond automatic association with social justice, considering the complexities of the present context.
    • Role of Lower Castes: Lower caste politics can counter Hindutva, even when focused on community interests, offering resistance to the dominance of upper-caste neo-elites.
    • State Rights Assertion: Bihar’s resistance against Hindutva and the act of conducting a caste census assert State rights, contributing to the fight against the erosion of Indian federalism.
    • Portrait vs. Proxy Model: The caste survey raises questions about representation—whether elected representatives should resemble the population (portrait model) or act on their behalf (proxy model).

    The Way Forward:

    • Innovative Social Justice: Bihar has the opportunity to pioneer a new form of caste politics, adapting to the present context, breaking from past habits while upholding the core of the social justice agenda.
    • Political Representation: The article questions the idea that sharing the same identity is sufficient for representation, emphasizing the need for effective action on behalf of the represented.
    • Balancing Identities: Despite the census favoring larger numbers, Bihar can demonstrate that shared identity is a necessary but not sufficient condition for political representation.
    • Championing Federalism: Bihar, along with other states, can lead the resistance against the erosion of Indian federalism, emphasizing the importance of locally-relevant policies.

     

  • Remission of diabetes, desirable, but not essential

    Preventing Diabetes Complications & Health Problems

    Central idea

    The article highlights the importance of using precise terms like “remission” rather than “reversal” in discussing diabetes. It introduces the ABCDE criteria for potential remission, emphasizing factors like A1c, BMI, and duration. The author advocates a disciplined approach (ABCD: A1c, Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Discipline) for a healthy life, addressing India’s substantial diabetes challenges.

    Key Highlights:

    • Redefining ‘Reversal’: Dr. V. Mohan demystifies the trend of claiming ‘diabetes reversal,’ emphasizing the more accurate term ‘remission.’
      • Remission: Temporary relief or improvement from diabetes without a permanent cure.
    • ABCDE Criteria for Remission: Identification of crucial factors—A1c, BMI, C-Peptide, Duration, and Enthusiasm—that influence the likelihood of remission in type 2 diabetes.
      • A1c: Glycated hemoglobin, a measure of average blood sugar levels over the past three months.
      • BMI: Body Mass Index, a measure indicating body fat based on weight and height.
      • C-Peptide: A marker for insulin secretion, indicating the body’s ability to produce insulin.
      • Duration: Period of time since the onset of diabetes.
      • Enthusiasm: Eagerness and commitment towards achieving remission.
    • Legacy Effect: Recognizing the enduring benefits of achieving even short-term remission in diabetes and its role in preventing complications.
      • Legacy Effect: Long-lasting positive impact resulting from past actions or conditions.
    • Lifestyle Discipline: Advocating a disciplined lifestyle, with A1c below 7%, controlled blood pressure, and cholesterol as key components for a healthy life with diabetes.

    Challenges:

    • Deceptive Claims: Cautioning against misleading claims by commercial entities promoting diabetes reversal.
    • Individual Variations: Highlighting the diverse likelihoods of achieving remission among individuals with type 2 diabetes.
    • Post-Remission Severity: Noting the common occurrence of increased diabetes severity upon its recurrence post-remission.
      • Post-Remission Severity: Worsening of diabetes conditions after a period of temporary relief.
    • Long-term Remission Challenges: Acknowledging the difficulty for a majority in achieving and sustaining long-term remission.

    Key Phrases:

    • ABCDE Benchmark: Proposing the ABCDE criteria as a pivotal benchmark for assessing the potential for remission in type 2 diabetes.
    • Short-Term Remission Benefits: Underlining the lasting benefits, both physical and preventive, derived from short-term diabetes remission.
    • Disciplined Lifestyle Advocacy: Advocating for a disciplined lifestyle encompassing A1c control, blood pressure regulation, and cholesterol management.
    • Remission Duration Impact: Recognizing that even temporary remission contributes significantly to safeguarding against diabetes-related complications.

    Analysis:

    • Holistic Diabetes Management: Dr. Mohan stresses the importance of holistic diabetes management that extends beyond the pursuit of remission.
      • Holistic Management: Comprehensive and integrated approach addressing various aspects of diabetes care.
    • Remission Realities: Acknowledging the challenge for many individuals to achieve and sustain long-term remission in type 2 diabetes.
    • Guidelines Adherence: Reinforcing the significance of adhering to ABCD guidelines for a healthy life despite diabetes.
    • Balancing Expectations: Encouraging a balanced perspective on diabetes management, considering the varied responses to remission efforts.

    Key Data:

    • Diabetes Landscape: A snapshot of diabetes prevalence in India, with 101 million people diagnosed and 136 million in the prediabetes stage.
      • Diabetes Prevalence: The proportion of the population affected by diabetes.
    • Prediabetes Management: Recognizing the potential for delaying the onset of diabetes through lifestyle modifications in individuals with prediabetes.
      • Prediabetes: A condition preceding diabetes, indicating higher-than-normal blood sugar levels.

    Key Facts:

    • Complications Risk: Highlighting the risks of sub-optimal diabetes control, contributing to severe complications.
    • Expert Insight Impact: Dr. Mohan’s insights, drawn from extensive experience, underscore the potential for a healthy life despite diabetes.
    • National Health Objective: Reinforcing the national health objective of achieving a ‘diabetes complications-free India.

    Way Forward:

    • World Diabetes Day Pledge: Urging a renewed commitment on World Diabetes Day to prevent diabetes complications and promote overall well-being.
    • Dream of Complications-Free India: Aspiring toward realizing a ‘diabetes complications-free India’ by navigating existing challenges with determination and awareness.

  • This Diwali season, let’s focus on tradition, family — not smartphones

    Diwali Celebration in India 2019 - How Diwali is Celebrated in India?

    Central idea

    Diwali celebrates relationships with traditions, but modern challenges like too much focus on oneself and lack of understanding hurt connections. To improve, we need to balance our personal space, be genuine, spend quality time, and fix how we communicate. Diwali reminds us to make our relationships brighter by fixing these things.

    Key Highlights:

    • Diwali as Celebration of Relationships: Diwali is a celebration of relationships, encompassing various bonds such as family, friends, and societal connections.
    • Rituals Reflecting Values: Traditional Diwali rituals symbolize prosperity, good health, and artistic talents, emphasizing the importance of these aspects in our lives.
    • Relationship Cultivation Discourse: The academic discourse on relationship cultivation has primarily been within corporate contexts, like public relations and industrial relations.

    Challenges:

    • Individualism vs. Collective Spirit: The modern emphasis on personal space and individual choice sometimes overlooks the importance of the collective spirit, leading to potential fragmentation of relationships and societies.
    • Understanding Relationship Prerequisites: A lack of understanding about the key elements essential for strong relationships, such as mutual needs and genuine intentions.
    • Time Investment: In the era of the “attention economy,” there’s a growing trend of seeking maximum returns with minimal time investment, impacting the depth and quality of relationships.
    • Communication Challenges: Poor language skills, influenced by smartphone habits, contribute to challenges in dialogues and conversations. The rise of “phubbing” (snubbing in favor of phones) can negatively impact relationships.

    Analysis:

    • Impact of Individualism: Extreme individualist thinking can contribute to the breakdown of collective values, leading to the fragmentation of families and societies.
    • Relationship Sustainability: Genuine intentions and mutual needs are identified as foundational elements for sustainable relationships.
    • Time as a Critical Investment: Adequate investment of time, especially quality time, is crucial for the evolution and maintenance of relationships.

    Key Data:

    • 2017 Study on Phubbing: Meredith E David and James Roberts conducted a study indicating that phubbing can lead to a decline in crucial adult relationships, particularly with life partners.

    Key Terms for mains value addition:

    • Phubbing: The practice of snubbing others in favor of mobile phones, identified as a detrimental factor in relationships.

    Way Forward:

    • Balancing Individualism and Collectivism: Finding a balance between personal space and the collective spirit to strengthen relationships.
    • Promoting Genuine Intentions: Emphasizing the importance of authentic emotions and intentions in building and sustaining relationships.
    • Conscious Time Investment: Encouraging stakeholders to invest adequate and quality time in various relationships, acknowledging its importance in relationship dynamics.
    • Addressing Communication Challenges: Recognizing the impact of smartphones on interpersonal communication and striving for more authentic and meaningful conversations.

  • Best case scenario for BJP in state polls — it will only win Rajasthan

    Central idea

    The article scrutinizes various Union government welfare schemes, citing issues in health insurance, education, water mission, nutrition, financial inclusion, and minority scholarships. It urges corrective measures to rectify identified challenges, emphasizing the reassessment of budget allocations for improved transparency and program efficacy.

    Key Highlights:

    • Critique of BJP’s welfare schemes, questioning their effectiveness and highlighting discrepancies.
    • Examination of schemes like Ayushman Bharat, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Jal Jeevan Mission, PM POSHAN, Jan Dhan Yojana, and Minority Scholarships.
    • Mention of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report exposing issues in Ayushman Bharat, including fraudulent practices.
    • Emphasis on the allocation and utilization of funds in schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and PM POSHAN.
    • Challenges in the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission, particularly the slow progress in providing functional tap connections.
    • Criticism of the decrease in allocation for PM POSHAN despite the persisting issue of child malnutrition.
    • Statistics revealing issues in Jan Dhan Yojana, including a high percentage of zero-balance accounts and decreased claim settlements.

    Key Phrases for mains marks enhancement:

    • “Hype than substance” in describing BJP’s welfare schemes.
    • “Glaring discrepancies” in the Ayushman Bharat scheme, as highlighted by CAG.
    • “Measly budget allocation” for Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and structural barriers to girls’ education.
    • “Certified” villages under Jal Jeevan Mission and the slow progress in providing tap connections.
    • “Decrease in allocation” for PM POSHAN despite the prevalence of child malnutrition.
    • “Zero balance accounts” and “dormant or inoperative” Jan Dhan accounts.
    • “Discontinuation” and “reduction of funding” for Minority Scholarships, impacting educational opportunities.

    Analysis:

    The article critically examines several welfare schemes launched by the BJP government, questioning their impact and effectiveness. It highlights discrepancies in implementation, allocation, and utilization of funds in schemes related to healthcare, education, water supply, nutrition, and financial inclusion. The analysis draws attention to issues such as fraudulent practices, slow progress in achieving objectives, and reductions in budget allocations despite persistent challenges.

    Key Data:

    • 5 lakh beneficiaries linked with a single cell phone number in Ayushman Bharat.
    • 80% of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao funds spent on media campaigns.
    • Only 35% of villages under Jal Jeevan Mission certified for providing drinking water.
    • Rs 11,600 crore allocation for PM POSHAN in 2023, a 9% decrease from the previous year.
    • Over 8% of Jan Dhan accounts as zero balance, and 18% either dormant or inoperative.
    • Discontinuation of the Maulana Azad Fellowship scheme and reduction of funds for Minority Scholarships.

    Ayushman Bharat:

    • Challenges: Glaring discrepancies highlighted by the CAG, including fraudulent practices and data manipulation.
    • Analysis: The scheme faces credibility issues due to these discrepancies, raising questions about its transparency and effectiveness.
    • Way Forward: Implement corrective measures based on the CAG report findings to ensure transparency and accountability.

    Beti Bachao Beti Padhao:

    • Challenges: Heavy spending on media campaigns (80%), structural barriers hindering girls’ education.
    • Analysis: Allocation concerns and structural barriers indicate shortcomings in achieving the scheme’s objectives.
    • Way Forward: Reevaluate budget allocations, focusing on direct implementation and addressing barriers to girls’ education.

    Jal Jeevan Mission:

    • Challenges: Slow progress in providing functional tap connections, only 35% of villages certified.
    • Analysis: Concerns about achieving objectives by the 2024 deadline due to slow progress and incomplete certifications.
    • Way Forward: Intensify efforts to expedite tap connections and ensure the certification of remaining villages.

    PM POSHAN:

    • Challenges: Decreased budget allocation (9% reduction), persisting child malnutrition issues.
    • Analysis: Despite the prevalence of child malnutrition, reduced funding raises concerns about the scheme’s impact.
    • Way Forward: Reconsider budget decisions to align with the magnitude of challenges and enhance the effectiveness of nutritional interventions.

    Jan Dhan Yojana:

    • Challenges: High percentage of zero-balance accounts (8%) and decreased claim settlements.
    • Analysis: Issues with inactive accounts and declining claim settlements indicate challenges in the scheme’s implementation.
    • Way Forward: Enhance outreach and awareness programs to ensure the effective utilization of financial inclusion schemes.

    Minority Scholarships:

    • Challenges: Discontinuation of Maulana Azad Fellowship, reduction of funds for educational opportunities.
    • Analysis: Discontinuation and reduced funding impact educational opportunities for minorities.
    • Way Forward: Reconsider decisions to discontinue or reduce funding, supporting educational opportunities for minorities.

  • Hypertension Care: Insights from India’s Healthcare Landscape

    hypertension

    Central Idea

    • An analysis of recent National Family Health Survey data, as published in the journal JAMA, has revealed substantial disparities in the prevalence, diagnosis, treatment, and control of hypertension within Indian states and districts.
    • These disparities underscore the need for targeted and decentralized solutions to address the complexities of hypertension care across the nation.

    What is Hypertension?

    • Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high.
    • Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and is expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure.
    • The systolic pressure represents the force when the heart contracts, while the diastolic pressure represents the force when the heart is at rest between beats.
    • Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure consistently measures at or above 130/80 mm Hg.
    • However, different organizations may have slightly different guidelines for defining hypertension.

    Key Findings of the Study

    • National-Level Observations: The national-level data reveals a common trend – a significant proportion of individuals with hypertension remain undiagnosed, and even among those diagnosed, many do not initiate treatment. Moreover, among those who commence treatment, few achieve adequate blood pressure control.
    • Inter-State Variation: The study notes that while the prevalence of hypertension is comparable in southern states, it is notably higher than the national average, with 29.9% of the population in these states affected compared to 26.8% nationally.
    • District-Level Disparities: The study highlights substantial variations within states. For instance, in Meghalaya, the prevalence of hypertension differs significantly across Garo Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Khasi Hills districts, affecting the diagnosis rates. A similar scenario is observed in Karnataka’s Chikmagalur, Shimoga, Udupi, and Chitradurga districts.

    Impact of Demographics and Education

    • Gender and Age: Despite hypertension being more prevalent in men, the data surprisingly reveals that women are more likely to be diagnosed, receive treatment, and achieve blood pressure control.
    • Socio-Economic Status: Individuals in the wealthiest quintile demonstrate higher rates of prevalence, diagnosis, treatment initiation, and control.
    • Education Level: Completion of schooling correlates with better rates of diagnosis, treatment, and control compared to those with no schooling or up to Class 11.

    Significance of Inter-State and Inter-District Variability

    • Resource Allocation: District-level data can guide state governments in allocating resources efficiently. It helps identify districts with a high prevalence of hypertension that may require increased screening and diagnostic facilities or better accessibility to medicines.
    • Continuum of Care: Managing chronic conditions like hypertension requires a distinct healthcare approach. Ensuring regular availability of medicines, digitization of records for follow-ups, and the establishment of accessible treatment centers are critical components of an effective continuum of care.

    Controlling Hypertension in India

    • WHO’s Call to Action: The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the potential to avert nearly 4.6 million deaths in India by 2040 if half of hypertensive individuals can control their blood pressure.
    • Government Initiative: India launched a comprehensive initiative in 2023 to treat 75 million people with hypertension or diabetes by 2025. This endeavor extends beyond infrastructure expansion to active screening, treatment initiation, medication accessibility, and follow-up mechanisms.

    Conclusion

    • India’s quest to bridge the gaps in hypertension care demands a multifaceted approach.
    • The district-level insights offered by this study can guide policymakers in crafting targeted solutions, ultimately enhancing the continuum of care for hypertension and contributing to better public health outcomes.

  • Only 3% of Kota’s students have visited a mental health professional

    Mental Health

    Central idea

    The article sheds light on the alarming rates of student suicides in Kota, primarily attributed to academic pressure. It explores the various pressures students face, their coping mechanisms, and the significant impact on mental health, emphasizing the urgent need for institutionalized counseling and holistic well-being programs.

    Key Highlights:

    • Student Suicides in Kota: According to NCRB data in 2021, student suicides in India accounted for 8% of total suicides. Kota, a prominent coaching hub, witnessed 25 suicides this year, raising concerns about academic pressure.
    • Impact of NEET and JEE Exams: Students believe clearing these exams is crucial for a better life, leading to heightened stress. Almost 20% often suffer from thoughts related to under-performing, impacting mental health.
    • Contributing Factors: Parental pressure, financial stress, and peer pressure contribute to students’ anxieties. Loneliness is prevalent, with 53% experiencing it occasionally.

    Different Kinds of Pressures:

    • NEET and JEE Significance: Students perceive success in NEET and JEE exams as vital for a better future, intensifying academic pressure.
    • Fear of Under-Performance: Nearly 20% constantly grapple with thoughts of potential consequences if they under-perform, leading to heightened stress levels.
    • Immediate Family Influence: Students with family members who studied in Kota before them often face additional academic pressure.
    • Parental Expectations: Almost 10% experience frequent parental pressure, while a quarter encounters it occasionally, affecting mental well-being.
    • Gender Disparity: Girls tend to face slightly higher parental pressure compared to boys, highlighting gender-specific challenges.
    • Financial Pressure: 6% of students frequently feel financial stress, and 25% experience it occasionally, adding to the array of pressures.

    Impact on Mental Health:

    • Post-Coaching Mental Health: Close to 30% report a decline in mental health after joining coaching classes, indicating the adverse impact of the academic environment.
    • Body Pain and Emotional Changes: A significant portion experiences heightened nervousness, mood swings, and physical discomfort, adversely affecting mental health.
    • Loneliness Prevalence: More than half (53%) experience loneliness occasionally, reflecting the emotional toll of the academic journey in Kota.
    • Psychological Strain: Emotional challenges such as increased nervousness, mood swings, and loneliness affect approximately three in every ten students.
    • Anger and Frustration: Nearly 30% feel a rise in anger, and over a quarter report increased frustration and fear, showcasing the multifaceted impact on emotional well-being.

    Challenges and concerns:

    • Deteriorating Mental Health: Close to 30% feel their mental health worsened after joining coaching classes. Over 40% feel more fatigued, and many report increased nervousness, loneliness, and mood swings.
    • Limited Professional Help: Despite poor mental health indicators, only 3% seek assistance from mental health professionals, emphasizing a lack of awareness and proactive initiatives.
    • Need for Proactive Measures: Almost half (48%) don’t feel the need for mental health visits, underlining the necessity for more proactive efforts in promoting mental well-being.
    • Advocacy for Mental Health: The data highlights the urgency of institutionalized counseling mechanisms and increased awareness to encourage young individuals to prioritize mental health.

    Way Forward:

    • Implementing Comprehensive Counseling: Establishing structured counseling services within coaching centers and Kota to address students’ mental health needs.
    • Promoting Awareness: Conducting awareness campaigns to emphasize the importance of seeking professional mental health support.
    • Integrating Holistic Approaches: Incorporating holistic well-being programs that address not only academic stress but also overall physical and mental health.
    • Educational Initiatives: Launching educational initiatives to equip students with coping skills and stress management techniques.
    • Scholarship Programs: Expanding scholarship programs to ease financial burdens and create a more inclusive educational environment.

  • Meta lawsuits: Big Tech will always be bad for mental health

    mental health

    Central idea

    The article delves into the social media crisis, pointing fingers at Meta for exacerbating youth mental health issues through Instagram’s addictive features. Legal actions highlight the platforms’ intentional exploitation of young users’ vulnerabilities. To address this, a suggested solution is contemplating a shift from the current profit-driven business model to a subscription-based one.

    Key Highlights:

    • Social Media Crisis: Social media platforms, especially Meta (formerly Facebook), are facing a crisis due to concerns about their impact on mental health, particularly among youth.
    • Legal Action Against Meta: Forty-two US Attorney Generals have filed lawsuits against Meta, alleging that Instagram, a Meta-owned platform, actively contributes to a youth mental health crisis through addictive features.
    • Allegations Against Meta: The lawsuit claims that Meta knowingly designs algorithms to exploit young users’ dopamine responses, creating an addictive cycle of engagement for profit.
    • Dopamine and Addiction: Dopamine, associated with happiness, is triggered by likes on platforms like Facebook, leading to heightened activity in children’s brains, making them more susceptible to addictive behaviors.
    Prelims focus – Dopamine

    • Neurotransmitter: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger in the brain.
    • Feelings of Pleasure: It is associated with feelings of pleasure, reward, and satisfaction.
    • Reward System: Dopamine plays a crucial role in the brain’s reward system, reinforcing certain behaviors.
    • Motivation: It is linked to motivation, focus, and regulating mood.
    • Addiction and Habits: Dopamine is involved in the development of addictive behaviors and habits.
    • Social Media Impact: Activities on social media, like receiving likes or positive feedback, can lead to a release of dopamine.

    Key examples for mains value addition 

    • The Social Dilemma (2020): A Netflix show that revealed how social media, led by Meta, messes with our minds and influences our behavior, especially impacting the mental health of youngsters.
    • Frances Haugen’s Revelations: A whistleblower exposed internal Meta documents showing that Instagram worsened body image issues for teen girls, making social media’s impact on mental health a serious concern.
    • US Surgeon General’s Advisory: The government’s health expert issued a warning about the negative effects of social media on young minds, emphasizing its importance in President Biden’s State of the Union address.

    Challenges:

    • Addictive Business Model: The core issue with social media is its business model, focusing on user engagement and data monetization, potentially at the expense of user well-being.
    • Transformation from Networks to Media: Social networks, initially built for human connection, have transformed into media properties where users are treated as data for advertisers, impacting their habits and behaviors.
    • Global Regulatory Scrutiny: Meta faces regulatory challenges beyond the US, with UK, EU, and India considering legislative measures. India, having the largest Instagram user base, emphasizes accountability for content hosted on platforms.

    Analysis:

    • Business Model Critique: The article argues that the problem with social media lies in its business model, which prioritizes user engagement for data collection and monetization.
    • Regulatory Consequences: If the lawsuit succeeds, Meta could face significant penalties, potentially adding up to billions of dollars, and signaling a major setback for the company.
    • Global Impact: Regulatory scrutiny extends beyond the US, indicating a need for platforms to be more accountable and responsible for their content and user interactions on a global scale.

    Key Data:

    • Potential Penalties: Meta could face penalties of up to $5000 for each violation if the lawsuit succeeds, posing a significant financial threat considering Instagram’s large user base.
    • Regulatory Pressure in India: India, with 229 million Instagram users, emphasizes the end of a free pass for platforms, signaling a global shift towards increased accountability.

    Way Forward:

    • Shift to Subscription Model: The article suggests that social networks might consider adopting a subscription model, akin to OpenAI’s approach, to prioritize user well-being over advertising revenue.
    • Listen to Regulatory Signals: Platforms are urged to heed regulatory signals and work collaboratively to address issues rather than adopting a confrontational stance.
    • Long-term Survival: To ensure long-term survival, social media networks may need to reevaluate their business models, aligning them with user well-being rather than prioritizing engagement and data monetization.

    In essence, the article highlights the crisis in social media, legal challenges against Meta, the critique of the business model, global regulatory scrutiny, and suggests potential shifts in the industry’s approach for long-term survival.

  • Mother, child and the Poshan Tracker

    What is poshan tracker?

    Poshan Tracker is a centralized ICT-enabled platform developed by the Government of India, serving as the largest mobile nutrition monitoring system globally. Embraced by 1.3 million Anganwadi workers, it collects real-time data on the height and weight of 72 million children under five, aiming to address malnutrition challenges through transparency, accountability, and targeted interventions in the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) sector.

    Key Facts:

    • Poshan Tracker is the largest mobile nutrition monitoring system globally, adopted by 1.3 million Anganwadi workers in India within two years.
    • It collects height and weight data for 72 million children under five, representing over 50% of the population, with 94% Aadhar verification.
    • The system includes modules for beneficiary registration, growth monitoring, migration facility, dashboard for underperforming districts, and a portal for reporting community engagements.
    • Poshan Tracker serves as a real-time feedback loop for frontline workers, aiding in early identification of malnutrition and monitoring service delivery.
    • The data captured includes information on Anganwadi infrastructure, beneficiaries receiving rations and meals, and nutritional outcomes at national, state, and district levels.

    Key Terms:

    • Poshan Tracker: The centralized ICT-enabled platform developed by the Government of India for nutrition monitoring, promoting transparency and accountability in service delivery.
    • Anganwadi Workers (AWCs): Frontline workers in India responsible for implementing Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) at the community level.
    • Aadhar Verification: The process of confirming the identity of beneficiaries using the Aadhar system, ensuring accuracy in data.
    • Feedback Loop: A continuous cycle of collecting, analyzing, and applying feedback to improve the user-friendliness and effectiveness of the monitoring system.
    • Granularity: The level of detail in data, addressing variability in malnutrition rates and providing localized, observed information.

    Key Data:

    • 72 Million Children: Height and weight data collected for this number, representing over 50% of children under five in India.
    • 94% Aadhar Verified: High percentage of beneficiaries whose identities are verified through Aadhar, ensuring data accuracy.
    • 1.3 Million Anganwadi Workers: Universal adoption of Poshan Tracker among these frontline workers.
    • Underperforming Districts: A dashboard monitors key performance indicators in selected underperforming districts.
    • 80% Accuracy Improvement: Similar mobile apps in Indonesia improved accuracy of growth monitoring, particularly for underweight children, by 80% on average.

    Key Highlights:

    • Unprecedented Scale: Poshan Tracker is the largest mobile nutrition monitoring system globally, with universal adoption by 1.3 million Anganwadi workers in India within two years.
    • Real-Time Monitoring: It collects height and weight data for 72 million children under five, representing over 50% of the population, providing real-time monitoring and 94% Aadhar verification.
    • Comprehensive Dashboard: Captures data on Anganwadi infrastructure, beneficiaries receiving rations and meals, and nutritional outcomes at national, state, and district levels.
    • Feedback Loop: Acts as a feedback loop for frontline workers, aiding in early identification of malnutrition, targeting at-risk beneficiaries, and monitoring service delivery.
    • Modules: Various modules include beneficiary registration, growth monitoring, migration facility, dashboard for underperforming districts, and a portal for reporting community engagements on nutrition.

    Challenges and Concerns:

    • Data Quality Doubts: Global experience raises concerns about the quality of monitoring data; the accuracy of Poshan Tracker data is a critical consideration.
    • Timeliness: Paper-based reporting is time-consuming, and while Poshan Tracker enables real-time transmission, the challenge lies in maintaining this speed and efficiency.
    • User Overburden: Anganwadi workers are overburdened; ensuring Poshan Tracker’s user-friendliness through feedback and ongoing training is crucial for sustainability.

    Analysis:

    • Accuracy Improvement: Studies show mobile apps improve accuracy; Poshan Tracker’s automatic calculations can reduce errors and provide more reliable data than manual methods.
    • Granularity: Poshan Tracker’s granularity addresses the variability in malnutrition rates, providing decision-makers with on-the-ground, observed data for timely action.
    • Timely Intervention: Real-time data transmission enables faster government response and quicker retrieval of information at the Anganwadi level, saving time for nutritional promotion activities.

    Way Forward:

    • Continuous Feedback: Regular updates based on Anganwadi workers’ feedback are essential to ensure the system’s user-friendliness.
    • Skill-Building: Ongoing skill-building and technical assistance are crucial for the sustainability of the monitoring system.
    • Actionable Outcomes: Recognizing data as a tool, investments should focus on delivering essential services promptly when malnutrition is detected.

  • The world is getting older. Can India cope?

     

    Central idea

    India is becoming the most populous country soon, but it’s also aging rapidly. This brings challenges like fewer workers and a changed global role. To tackle this, we need plans for more kids, strategies for the elderly, and preparations for India’s new place in the world.

    Key Highlights:

    • India is set to become the most populous country by 2027, surpassing China.
    • The global trend is “greying,” with aging populations becoming more prevalent.
    • India’s elderly population is expected to double by 2050, constituting 20% of the total population.
    • Fertility rates are declining in both developed and developing countries, affecting the old age dependency ratio.
    • The world is witnessing a geopolitical shift, with India, Nigeria, China, and the US projected as dominant powers by 2100.

    Challenges and Concerns:

    • Aging populations mean fewer workers and taxpayers, impacting a country’s ability to generate wealth.
    • Declining fertility rates pose economic challenges, especially in developing countries like India.
    • The elderly population’s growth presents significant implications for health, economy, and society.
    • Developed countries had a higher per capita income when their populations aged, unlike developing countries like India.
    • A potential decline in India’s population by the turn of the century could impact its geopolitical standing.

    Analysis:

    • The article underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the challenges posed by aging populations and declining fertility rates.
    • It emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to handle the economic and societal impacts of these demographic shifts.
    • The geopolitical reorganization highlighted suggests a shift in power dynamics, with factors like immigration and reproductive rights playing crucial roles.

    Key Data and Facts:

    • India’s elderly population is expected to grow by 41% between 2021 and 2031.
    • The share of older persons in India will double to 20.8% by 2050, with 347 million elderly individuals.
    • Fertility rates in urban India are comparable to developed countries, with a rate of 1.6.
    • By 2100, China’s population is projected to decline significantly, impacting its geopolitical influence.
    • Japan and South Korea are the world’s fastest-aging countries, with South Korea holding the world’s lowest fertility rate.

    Way Forward:

    • Address declining fertility rates through policies that support work-life balance, childcare, and reproductive choice.
    • Develop strategies to manage the economic and healthcare challenges associated with an aging population.
    • Consider the geopolitical implications of demographic shifts and plan for a future where India plays a crucial role.
    • Emphasize the importance of immigration and reproductive rights for women in shaping the global power structure.
    • Encourage a holistic approach to demographics, taking into account societal, economic, and geopolitical factors.

  • The IITs are overcommitted, in crisis

    iit

    Central idea 

    The article focuses on challenges facing IITs, such as quality concerns, faculty shortages, and questionable overseas expansions. The central idea emphasizes prioritizing quality, addressing faculty shortages, evaluating international ventures carefully, and promoting collaboration with industries for sustained excellence in Indian higher education.

    Key Highlights:

    • IITs as Crown Jewels: IITs are globally renowned, known as India’s premier higher education institutions, producing leaders in high-tech fields.
    • Global Ventures: IIT-Madras opens a branch in Zanzibar, raising questions about international expansion and its purpose.
    • Domestic Expansion: IIT system expanded post-2015, facing challenges in maintaining high standards and faculty shortages.

    Challenges:

    • Quality Concerns: New IITs struggle to match the standards of traditional institutes, with varying levels of prestige.
    • Faculty Shortage: Severe shortage of academics in the IIT system, hindering quality education.
    • Overseas Campus Questions: Questions arise about the motivation and preparedness for IITs’ international expansion, such as the Zanzibar venture.
    • Standard Disparity: Unequal standards among IITs, with new institutions struggling to meet the excellence of traditional ones.

    Analysis:

    • Quality Building Challenge: Ensuring quality in new IITs becomes a significant challenge, affecting the prestige of the entire system.
    • Faculty Shortage Impact: Severe academic shortages affect the overall functioning and reputation of the IIT system.
    • Domestic Expansion Questioned: The wisdom of expanding the IIT system domestically is questioned, considering the challenges faced.

    Key Data:

    • IIT Enrollment: Enrolment in all 23 IITs exceeds 1,20,000, indicating increased access and opportunity.
    • Vacant Seats: In 2021-22, 361 undergraduate, 3,083 postgraduate, and 1,852 PhD seats remained empty in new IITs.
    • Faculty Vacancies: Out of 10,881 sanctioned posts in 2021, 4,370 were vacant, signaling a severe shortage

    Background:

    • Established in 1950, the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) emerged as premier higher education institutions. Initially rooted in partnerships with foreign technological universities, they aimed to contribute to national development by producing leaders in high-tech fields.
    • The early IITs, such as Kharagpur, built a reputation for excellence through collaborations with institutions in the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

    Objectives:

    • Excellence in Technology: The primary objective was to excel in technological education and research, aligning with global standards.
    • National Development: IITs aimed to contribute significantly to India’s development by producing skilled professionals in engineering and technology.
    • Global Recognition: Striving for global recognition, IITs sought to establish themselves as hubs of cutting-edge research and innovation.
    • Industry Interface: Bridging the gap between academia and industry, fostering collaborations to address real-world challenges.

    The vision behind IITs

    • Nurture Talent: Fosters and nurtures exceptional talent in the field of science, engineering, and technology.
    • Drive Innovation: Serves as a catalyst for innovation, pushing the boundaries of research and technological advancements.
    • Contribute Globally: Produces graduates and research outputs that make substantial contributions at both the national and global levels.
    • Maintain Quality: Upholds a commitment to maintaining high academic standards and a reputation for excellence.

    Way Forward:

    • Quality Over Quantity: Prioritize quality in new IITs over rapid expansion.
    • Address Faculty Shortage: Attract and retain top talent through competitive salaries.
    • Evaluate Overseas Ventures: Assess the purpose and viability of overseas campuses, ensuring high standards.
    • Standardization Efforts: Implement measures to standardize the quality and prestige across all IITs.
    • Industry Collaboration: Foster collaboration with industries to bridge the gap between academia and emerging sectors.

  • Impacting a woman’s freedom to reproductive choices

     

    women

    Central idea

    The recent Supreme Court decision in X vs Union of India has sparked a debate on the delicate balance between a woman’s right to choose and the viability of the fetus. Grounded in the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, the judgment has faced criticism for not explicitly addressing the moral and legal status of the fetus, potentially overshadowing a woman’s rights to privacy and dignity.

    Key Highlights:

    • Denial of Termination at 26 Weeks: The Supreme Court, in its decision, denied permission for the termination of a 26-week pregnancy, citing limitations within the MTP Act. The judgment centers on the viability of the fetus, limiting a woman’s right to choose when the fetus becomes capable of surviving outside the uterus.
    • Omission of Crucial Questions: Despite the ruling’s focus on viability, the Court did not address vital questions surrounding the autonomous moral status, legal standing, and constitutional rights of the fetus.
    • Petitioner’s Plight: The petitioner, a 27-year-old woman battling post-partum depression, emphasized her inability to care for a third child, underscoring the complex interplay of mental health and reproductive choices.

    Challenges

    • Ambiguity in MTP Act: The judgment fails to assess whether the MTP Act serves merely as an enabling legislation or if it confers fundamental rights, leading to uncertainties in interpreting the law.
    • Overlooking Fetal Rights: The absence of consideration for the rights and status of the fetus within the constitutional framework raises concerns about inadvertently favoring fetal rights over a woman’s autonomy.
    • Hierarchical Rights: The Court’s decision may unintentionally establish a hierarchy of rights, potentially elevating the fetus above a woman’s right to make autonomous reproductive choices.
    Prelims focus

     

    MTP Act of 1971: The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act of 1971 was the foundational legislation that regulated abortion in India. It permitted abortions up to 20 weeks of gestation under specific conditions, such as the risk to the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant woman.

     

    Amendment in 2021: In 2021, the MTP Act underwent significant amendments to modernize and liberalize India’s abortion laws.

     

    The key changes included:

    Extending the permissible gestational limit from 20 to 24 weeks.

    Expanding access to abortion services by allowing a broader range of healthcare providers to perform abortions, including mid-level providers.

     

     

    Concerns

    • Establishing Fetal Constitutional Rights: The ruling’s potential implications on establishing constitutional rights for fetuses contradict existing jurisprudence, stirring concerns about the broader legal landscape.
    • Impact on Reproductive Autonomy: The judgment’s impact on a woman’s freedom to make reproductive choices without undue interference becomes a focal point of concern.
    • Enabling Legislation vs. Fundamental Rights: Potential conflicts between enabling legislation like the MTP Act and fundamental rights necessitate a reexamination of legal frameworks.

    Analysis

    • Gap in Addressing Evolving Dynamics: The Court’s decision reveals a gap in addressing the evolving dynamics of reproductive rights, especially in the context of mental health and socioeconomic factors.
    • Contradiction in Privacy and Dignity: Contradictions emerge when comparing this judgment with the Court’s recent stance on privacy and dignity, as seen in X vs The Govt. of Delhi, where autonomy over reproductive choices was emphasized.

    Way Forward

    • Reevaluate MTP Act: A comprehensive reevaluation of the MTP Act is imperative to address evolving societal and medical considerations in the realm of reproductive rights.
    • Dialogue on Fetal Constitutional Status: Initiating a broad dialogue on the constitutional status of the fetus is crucial, considering the potential ramifications on reproductive rights.
    • Amendments and Supplementary Regulations: Considering amendments or supplementary regulations becomes essential to bridge gaps in existing legislation and ensure a more nuanced approach to reproductive choices.

    This structured approach aims to simplify complex legal and ethical discussions while highlighting the key elements of the Supreme Court’s decision and its broader implications.

  • Maratha reservation: Why everyone wants a ‘sarkari naukri’ in New India

    Central idea 

    The article explores the paradox of a “New India” emphasizing private enterprise while various communities express a strong desire for state involvement. It delves into caste-based demands, the significance of the state as a safe haven, and the challenges arising from unchecked markets and weakened labour laws.

    Key Highlights:

    • Caste-based Demands: Yadav men in Gurugram seek the creation of an “Ahir regiment,” while Marathas in Maharashtra demand reservations.
    • Skill Development: Skill development programs aim to prepare youth for private sector jobs, but a Dalit youth in Ranchi desires government jobs for the respect they offer.
    • State’s Significance: Despite the emphasis on private enterprise in “New India,” many still seek social and economic mobility facilitated by the state.
    • Arbitrary State Action: The perception of an overweening state, especially in curbing perceived enemies, leads people to consider the state as a safe haven.
    • Regulation and Market: Expansion of private enterprise is accompanied by the state’s neglect of regulating the market, exposing vulnerabilities of the less privileged.
    • Labour Laws: Weakening labour laws favors private sector employers, making state jobs more appealing due to higher respectability and security.

    Challenges and Concerns:

    • Arbitrary State Actions: Fear of arbitrary state actions undermines the idea of a free and open society.
    • Market Unchecked: Lack of market regulation exposes vulnerable individuals to the excesses of the private sector.
    • Weakened Labour Laws: Dilution of labour laws jeopardizes decent working conditions and job security.

    Analysis:

    • Desire for State Involvement: Despite the push for a market-led society, people prefer the state for security and protection against arbitrary actions.
    • State’s Responsibility: The state’s retreat from regulating the market has shifted the balance, making state jobs more attractive.
    • Contradictions in New India: The narrative of private enterprise coexists with a strong desire for state involvement, indicating contradictions in the idea of “New India.”

    Key Data:

    • Skill India Programme: Launched in 2015 with the aim to train 402 million people by 2022.
    • 2015 Budget Allocation: Rs 5,040 crore allocated for skill development.
    • 11th Five Year Plan: (2007-2012) Witnessed the formulation of programs for skill development.

    Key Terms:

    • Ahir Regiment: Demands for a caste-specific army regiment by the Yadav community in Gurugram.
    • Skill Development Centres (SDCs): Private-run centers providing training in various domains.
    • Maratha Reservations: Ongoing demand for reservations by the Maratha community in Maharashtra.
    • New India: Characterized by the emphasis on private enterprise and entrepreneurial spirit.

    Way Forward:

    • Balanced State Involvement: Find a balance where the state ensures security without impinging on individual freedoms.
    • Market Regulation: Reinstate appropriate regulations to protect vulnerable individuals from market excesses.
    • Labour Laws: Reevaluate and strengthen labour laws to ensure decent working conditions and job security.
    • Public Awareness: Educate the public about the importance of a balanced relationship between the state and private enterprise.
    • Inclusive Policies: Implement inclusive policies that address the concerns of different communities and promote social and economic mobility.

  • India has ignored infertility for too long

    Central idea 

    The article discusses the overlooked issue of infertility in India’s population policies, emphasizing its social and cultural implications, particularly for women. It argues that addressing infertility as a public health concern is crucial for achieving a balanced approach to fertility control and reproductive autonomy.

    Key Highlights:

    • Infertility Stigma: Vimlesh faced societal pressure and anxiety due to her perceived infertility, particularly in producing a male child.
    • Reproductive Governance: Indian population policies historically focus on contraception, overlooking the prevalence of infertility and related reproductive rights.
    • Social Impact: Infertility in patriarchal societies like Rajasthan leads to women’s marginalization, impacting their value in households and access to resources.
    • Health-Seeking Behavior: Women seek healers for fertility, challenging epidemiological notions and emphasizing the social and economic dimensions of reproductive well-being.
    • Global Perspective: A World Health Organization report indicates that 1 in 6 people worldwide faces infertility issues, contributing to global demographic challenges.

    Challenges and Concerns:

    • Marginalization: Infertile women in India face marginalization, avoidance, and reduced access to resources, impacting their overall well-being.
    • Narrow Focus: Reproductive health policies predominantly focus on contraception, neglecting the broader issues of infertility and reproductive autonomy.
    • Lack of Data: The absence of significant quantitative data in the region compromises the reproductive health rights of women, especially in poorer communities.
    • Inaccessible Treatment: Expensive fertility treatments remain out of reach for many, denying poorer individuals their rights to become parents.

    Analysis:

    • Cultural Dimensions: The social and cultural meanings attached to infertility have profound consequences on women’s health, challenging narrow epidemiological perspectives.
    • Reorienting Policies: The need to shift the focus of population policies to address infertility, considering it as a crucial aspect of public health services.
    • Reproductive Autonomy: Balancing fertility control with reproductive autonomy is essential for a participatory, consensual, and rights-based approach.
    • Impact on Marginalized: Infertility exacerbates existing inequalities, especially in patriarchal societies, where decisions about women’s bodies are influenced by power dynamics.

    Key Data:

    • Total Fertility Rate (TFR): Current estimates indicate a TFR of 2.1 in rural areas and 1.6 in urban areas in India.
    • Worldwide Infertility: A recent WHO report reveals that 1 in 6 people globally experiences infertility issues.
    • National Population Policy: Historically focused on contraceptives as reproductive ‘choice,’ neglecting the prevalence of widespread infertility.

    Key Terms for value addition:

    • Reproductive Governance: Policies and practices influencing reproductive choices and outcomes.
    • Infertility Stigma: Societal discrimination and marginalization of individuals facing infertility.
    • Total Fertility Rate (TFR): The average number of children a woman is expected to have during her reproductive years.

    Way Forward:

    • Inclusive Policies: Population policies should address infertility as a critical aspect of public health, ensuring inclusivity and reproductive autonomy.
    • Data Collection: Conduct comprehensive studies combining qualitative and quantitative data to form a robust evidence base for effective policy decisions.
    • Accessible Healthcare: Ensure access to adequate and appropriate healthcare, addressing the fear of infertility and mitigating social consequences.
    • Education and Awareness: Promote awareness about infertility to destigmatize the condition and encourage a more supportive societal attitude.
    • Affordable Treatments: Work towards making fertility treatments more affordable and accessible, particularly for poorer communities.