09 Jan 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related SOCIAL JUSTICE 1. How surgical care in India is a neglected part of public health C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials GOVERNANCE 1. An ambitious push for values, ethics in higher education ECONOMY 1. Understanding the EU’s carbon border tax 2. Exploring India’s diverse cultural heritage through GI tags F. Prelims Facts 1. South Korea superconductivity claim revived with new data 2. DGCA revises duty norms for pilots; allows more rest G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
1. How surgical care in India is a neglected part of public health
Syllabus: Issues related to the development and management of the social sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
Mains: Issues related to Health
Introduction:
In the vast expanse of India’s public health system, the realm of surgical care remains overshadowed and largely neglected. This is a critical yet overlooked aspect. The article explores the challenges, disparities, and the urgent need for a comprehensive action plan.
Surgical Care in Public Health – Issues:
- Insufficient Classification: India’s Health Management Information System categorises surgeries not requiring general or spinal anaesthesia as ‘minor.’ A closer look reveals that, in the fiscal year 2019-2020, over 14 million minor surgeries were recorded, constituting just a fraction of the actual need. The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery (LCoGS) emphasizes the importance of accurate data collection to bridge this gap.
- Disparities in Surgical Access – A Population-wide Challenge: With a population of 1.4 billion, India’s surgical rate per 100,000 people varies significantly, underscoring disparities in access. Over 90% of rural Indians face challenges in accessing timely surgery due to a lack of facilities, poor transportation, and a scarcity of healthcare professionals. The shortage of surgical, anaesthesia, and obstetrics (SOA) workforce in rural areas further impedes the capacity to perform surgeries.
- Quality and Affordability Challenge in Surgical Care: The challenges extend beyond access, encompassing the quality of surgical care. Disparities based on geographical location, affordability, and the ability to pay are prevalent. Rural areas grapple with delivering major surgeries, impacting overall health outcomes. The absence of universal healthcare coverage exacerbates the financial burden on individuals seeking care in private hospitals.
Addressing the issue:
- While commendable initiatives by rural surgeons and organizations exist, systemic gaps persist in India’s surgical care landscape.
- Civilian initiatives and subnational programs play a crucial role in plugging these gaps.
- The fundamental neglect of surgical care in mainstream public health policymaking calls for urgent attention. India lacks a National Surgical Obstetric Anaesthesia Plan (NSOAP), emphasizing the need for dedicated policies.
- Prioritizing investments in data collection, integrating surgical care into existing healthcare systems, and developing NSOAP are crucial components of an action plan to address the neglected landscape of surgical care in India.
Way forward:
Policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders must recognize the urgency, prioritize investments, and embark on a comprehensive action plan. Only through concerted efforts can India ensure equitable access and quality surgical care for all its citizens.
Nut Graf: In India’s public health system, surgical care faces critical challenges, including insufficient classification, disparities in access, and quality and affordability issues. The absence of a National Surgical Obstetric Anaesthesia Plan underscores the need for dedicated policies to address these neglected aspects. A comprehensive action plan, prioritizing investments, data collection, and systemic integration, is crucial to ensure equitable access and quality surgical care for all citizens.
C. GS 3 Related
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D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
1. An ambitious push for values, ethics in higher education
Syllabus: Important Aspects of Governance, Transparency and Accountability
Mains: Ethics in Higher Education
Introduction:
- The University Grants Commission (UGC) issues guidelines at a rapid pace, with some key ones often escaping the attention of the higher education community.
- Mulya Pravah 2.0, a modified version of the 2019 notification, aims to instil human values and professional ethics in higher education institutions.
- The initiative is a response to unethical practices identified in a survey of human resource managers, including favouritism, sexual harassment, and gender discrimination.
Emphasis on Transparency:
- Mulya Pravah 2.0 underscores the necessity for transparency in administration, advocating decision-making based solely on institutional and public interest.
- Aims to eliminate discriminatory privileges, urging punitive measures against corruption and emphasizing the importance of encouraging free advice at all levels.
- Expects institutions to uphold values such as integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, sustainability, and global citizenship.
Issue of Confidentiality:
- Emphasis on maintaining confidentiality raises concerns about conflicting with the right to information for accountability.
- It is suggested to mandate voluntary disclosure of critical information, meeting agendas, proceedings, annual reports, and audited accounts for public scrutiny.
- Transparency is required to deter malpractices and restore public confidence in institutional workings.
Unions and Support:
- Mulya Pravah 2.0 expects staff and student unions to support the administration in development activities and raise issues in a dignified manner.
- It raises concerns about unions acting as a secondary team for the administration, potentially discouraging them from addressing member concerns.
- It is important to recognise unions as pressure groups, exerting collective influence to protect the rights and interests of their members.
Challenges and Concerns:
- Lack of clarity on what constitutes a “dignified manner” for raising issues may lead to potential misuse and stifling of collective voices.
- Concerns about the banning and suspension of unions and associations, with accusations of violating codes of conduct and acting against institutional interests.
- Advocates for the importance of discordant voices in strengthening institutions by improving the quality and sustainability of decisions.
Nut Graf: Mulya Pravah 2.0 by the University Grants Commission aims to instil ethics in higher education. Despite promoting transparency and accountability, concerns arise over confidentiality, union autonomy, and potential stifling of dissent, highlighting challenges for implementation.
Category: ECONOMY
1. Understanding the EU’s carbon border tax
Syllabus: Development and Employment
Mains: EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and Impact on India
Context: EU’s policy taxing carbon-intensive imports starting from 2026, aims to reduce emissions by 55% by 2030.
About Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM):
- Objective: To prevent carbon leakage, where EU industries move to countries with lax environmental regulations, by imposing import duties on carbon-intensive products.
- Mechanism: Similar to the EU’s Emission Trading System (ETS), tracking and taxing embedded GHG emissions in imports.
- Phases: Transitional phase (Oct 2023-Dec 2025) for reporting emissions without financial obligations. The definitive phase (from Jan 2026) requires importers to surrender CBAM certificates corresponding to emissions.
India’s Step to Tackle Carbon:
- CCTS Introduction: India amended the Energy Conservation Act in 2022, introducing the Carbon Credit Trading System (CCTS) to incentivize emission reduction and boost clean energy investments.
- Green Credit Programme: A voluntary market-based mechanism to encourage actions exceeding carbon reduction mandates, notified by the Ministry of Environment in 2023.
India’s Options:
- Challenges Faced: Potential adverse impact on key sectors like steel, with 27% of exports to the EU in 2022.
- Possible Actions:
- Challenge CBAM’s violation of differentiated responsibilities under the Paris Agreement.
- Suggest the EU reinvest collected tax funds into green technologies in affected countries.
- Actively negotiate with the EU, already initiating a challenge before the World Trade Organization under special treatment provisions.
- Considerations: EU’s oversight of other factors affecting production shift, like labour availability and production expansion in other regions.
- U.K.’s Influence: The U.K.’s plan to enforce its own CBAM by 2027 poses a significant challenge to India’s exports, urging swift formulation of India’s carbon taxation measures aligning with the Paris Agreement principles.
Nut Graf: The European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) aims to tax carbon-intensive imports by 2026, impacting India’s key sectors. India introduced the Carbon Credit Trading System (CCTS) and faces challenges while exploring options to align with global environmental standards.
2. Exploring India’s diverse cultural heritage through GI tags
Syllabus: Inclusive Growth and issues arising from it; Growth, Development and Employment
Mains: GI tags and their importance in Economic Development
Introduction:
- Over 500 products across all States have received Geographical Indications (GI) tags.
- GI tags signify specific geographical origins and unique qualities or reputations.
What is a GI tag?
- A sign used on products with a specific geographical origin and distinctive qualities.
- Examples include Tirupati laddus and Nagpur oranges, both having GI tags.
- Tirumala Tirupati Devsthanam emphasised the highest quality raw materials for laddu production.
- Nagpur orange farmers benefited from branding under the GI tag.
Application Process:
- Any trader’s body, association, or organization can apply for a GI tag.
- Applicants must prove the uniqueness of the item with historical records and detailed production processes.
- GI tags are not limited to popular products; there are numerous tags across various States.
Diversity in GI Tags:
- Raw materials for products do not necessarily come from the region unless it’s an agricultural tag.
- Examples include Banarasi paan leaves from Bihar, West Bengal, or Odisha, and Kancheepuram saree silk from Karnataka.
- Over 500 GI tags cover 34 classes of products, ranging from chemicals to handicrafts.
Categories and Dominance:
- GI registry classifies products into five major categories.
- Handicrafts dominate with over half the GI tags, showcasing skilled artisans’ craftsmanship.
- Classes include chemicals, foodstuff, handicrafts, musical instruments, firearms, and locomotives.
GI Tags Across States:
- Every Indian state has at least one GI tag, representing unique cultural items.
- GI tags are not indicative of cultural richness; more registrations might be due to a higher number of items.
State-wise Breakdown:
- Tamil Nadu excels with 61 GI tags, covering diverse products.
- Uttar Pradesh follows with 56 GI tags, including Agra’s leather footwear, Kanpur’s saddles, and Lucknow’s Chikankari.
- Karnataka ranks third with 48 GI tags, Kerala fourth with 39, and Maharashtra fifth with 35.
Source: The Hindu
Unique Cultural Centres:
- Banaras offers 11 unique crafts and agricultural items, including the famous Banarasi paan.
- Mysuru, historically ruled by the Wodeyars, presents 10 unique items, including Mysore mallige (jasmine) and sandalwood soap.
- Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu boasts five GI tags, featuring paintings and iconic bobblehead dolls.
Nut Graf: India’s rich cultural tapestry is unveiled through over 500 Geographical Indication (GI) tags, recognizing unique products across states. From iconic handicrafts to agricultural gems, the tags spotlight diverse traditions, showcasing the nation’s heritage.
F. Prelims Facts
1. South Korea superconductivity claim revived with new data
Context: A recent preprint paper by Chinese and Japanese scientists has reignited discussions on superconductivity, introducing a potential breakthrough in a controversial domain. The researchers claim to have observed the Meissner effect, a key indicator of superconductivity, in a material previously associated with conflicting claims.
About The Meissner Effect and Superconductivity:
The Meissner effect is a phenomenon observed in materials that can conduct electric currents without resistance, becoming superconductors. The researchers focused on copper-substituted lead apatite, suggesting its potential as a room-temperature and pressure (RTP) superconductor. This distinction is crucial for widespread applications, from efficient electricity transmission to advanced medical diagnostics.
Controversies and caution over New claims:
The field of superconductivity has faced controversies, with researchers seeking fame and lucrative opportunities often rushing their findings.
Instances from 2023, such as the retraction of studies on lutetium hydride and manganese sulphide, emphasize the need for cautious evaluation of new claims.
New Study and Potential RTP Superconductor: The recent preprint paper claims to have observed the Meissner effect in copper-substituted lead apatite, suggesting the material could be an RTP superconductor. The study, while promising, acknowledges challenges, including small superconducting portions and interference from cuprous sulphide.
Significance:
If proven, an RTP superconductor could revolutionize various industries, offering applications in electricity transmission, medical diagnostics, computing, and more.
The pursuit of superconductivity at room temperature and pressure continues to captivate scientists worldwide. While the recent study introduces intriguing possibilities, the scientific community remains cautious, emphasizing the importance of thorough scrutiny and validation to avoid repeating past controversies.
2. DGCA revises duty norms for pilots; allows more rest
Context: In response to increasing concerns raised by pilots regarding mounting fatigue, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has undertaken significant revisions to the norms regulating pilot duty hours. These changes aim to enhance safety, mitigate fatigue-related risks, and align with international best practices.
About the revised duty norms:
- Reduced Night Time Flying: The DGCA has placed restrictions on the number of landings during the critical “night duty” window between midnight and 6 a.m. Pilots are now limited to a maximum of two landings during this period, a significant departure from the previous allowance of six.
- Consecutive Night Duties: No pilot can be rostered for more than two consecutive night duties.
- Extended Definition of Night Duty: The DGCA has expanded the definition of night duty, extending it from midnight to 5 a.m., with the upper ceiling raised to 6 a.m.
- Weekly Rest Period Enhancement: Pilots will now enjoy a “continuous 48-hour” rest period, up from the previous 36 hours.
- Compliance Deadline for Airlines: Airlines are mandated to comply with the updated Civil Aviation Requirement on Flight Duty Time Limitations by June 1.
Significance:
The DGCA’s proactive approach in revising norms related to pilot duty hours reflects a commitment to aviation safety and the well-being of flight crews. By addressing concerns over fatigue, these changes contribute to creating a safer and more conducive working environment for pilots, ultimately enhancing the overall safety and efficiency of air travel. It also brings India’s aviation regulations in line with international best practices, fostering consistency and adherence to global safety standards.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements:
- K-shaped recovery implies a divergent rate of recovery with one section recovering positively and another section declining.
- The Gini Coefficient is a commonly used measure of income inequality.
- A higher Gini Coefficient indicates greater income inequality.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is Correct: A K-shaped recovery signifies a divergent rate of recovery, with one segment experiencing positive growth while another faces a decline. This pattern is often observed in economic rebound scenarios.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The Gini coefficient is a commonly used measure of income inequality, providing a numerical representation of the distribution of income within a population.
- Statement 3 is Correct: A higher Gini coefficient indicates greater income inequality, with values closer to 1 representing a more unequal distribution of income across the population.
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the European Free Trade Association (EFTA):
- EFTA countries are not part of the European Union.
- It excludes Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: EFTA countries are indeed not part of the European Union (EU). EFTA is a separate trade organization consisting of countries that are not EU members but seek to participate in the European single market.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are actually part of the EFTA. These nations, while not EU members, participate in EFTA agreements, contributing to the organization’s role in facilitating free trade among its member states.
- Therefore, the correct answer is “1 only.”
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding Hypersonic Missile:
- Both ballistic and hypersonic missiles follow a ballistic trajectory and can be manoeuvred to the intended target.
- Conventional hypersonic weapons use only potential energy.
- It flies at the speed of Mach 10.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: Ballistic missiles and hypersonic missiles follow different trajectories. Ballistic missiles follow a predictable parabolic trajectory, while hypersonic missiles use sustained aerodynamic lift, allowing for more unpredictable and manoeuvrable flight paths.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: Conventional hypersonic weapons typically use a combination of aerodynamic lift and propulsion, harnessing kinetic energy rather than relying solely on potential energy.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The speed of hypersonic missiles is generally much higher than Mach 10, often reaching speeds above Mach 20. These missiles travel at extremely high velocities, making them faster than conventional ballistic missiles.
- Therefore, none of the statements is correct.
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the Rule of Law:
- It means the exclusion of the existence of arbitrariness on the part of the government.
- It acts as a check to the executive’s lawlessness, by ensuring that no official or administrator can arrest or detain a person without legislative sanction.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: c
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The Rule of Law does entail the exclusion of arbitrariness on the part of the government. It implies that governmental actions should be based on established laws and principles, rather than being arbitrary or discretionary.
- Statement 2 is correct: The Rule of Law serves as a check on the executive’s lawlessness by ensuring that no official or administrator can arrest or detain a person without legislative sanction. This principle emphasizes that legal procedures and due process must be followed in any deprivation of individual liberty.
Q5. Consider the following pairs:
| Site of Ashoka’s major rock edicts | Location in the state of |
| Dhauli | Odisha |
| Erragudi | Andhra Pradesh |
| Jaugada | Madhya Pradesh |
| Kalsi | Karnataka |
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
- Only one pair
- Only two pairs
- Only three pairs
- All four pairs
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
- Dhauli is a vital early historic urban centre in Odisha, with archaeological findings dating back to the 3rd century BCE, particularly during Ashoka’s era.
- In 2013, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) took steps to protect the Ashoka rock edict site near Erragudi on the Gooty-Pathikonda road in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh.
- Jaugada is notable for being the second location in Odisha with a significant Ashokan rock edict, commonly known as the Kalinga edict.
- The Ashoka edict at Kalsi eloquently depicts Ashoka’s humane approach post his embrace of Buddhism after the war. Situated in the buffer zone between Uttaranchal and Himachal Pradesh, Kalsi hosts this impactful historical inscription.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- “Analyse the implications of EU’s Carbon Border Tax on India, and discuss the strategic responses that India can undertake to address these challenges.” (250 words, 15 marks) (General Studies – III, Economy)
- Access to timely surgeries has always been the Achilles heel of the Indian healthcare system. Comment. (250 words, 15 marks) (General Studies – II, Social Justice )
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