02-October-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

NITI AAYOG REPORT PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of India has recognized the need for a robust framework to effectively handle future public health emergencies.

The NITI Aayog, through its expert group, has put forward several recommendations aimed at strengthening India’s preparedness for future pandemics.

The report, titled Future Pandemic Preparedness and Emergency Response: A Framework for Action, was published in September 2024 and outlines key measures to manage pandemics more efficiently.

Key Recommendations of the NITI Aayog Report

Enactment of Public Health Emergency Management Act (PHEMA)

• A central recommendation is the creation of a new law, the Public Health Emergency Management Act (PHEMA), to empower the government to take swift actions during health emergencies.
• The report highlights those existing laws, such as the Epidemic Diseases Act (EDA) 1897, do not adequately cover the scale of actions needed during pandemics.
• The proposed PHEMA would grant the government greater authority to enforce measures like quarantines, movement restrictions, and mass vaccinations during outbreaks.

Strengthening Disease Surveillance Systems

• The report emphasizes the need for a stronger disease surveillance network to monitor emerging health threats.
• It proposes regular monitoring of potential pandemic-causing diseases, leveraging advanced data analytics and predictive modeling.
• This system would enable early detection and rapid response to outbreaks, preventing them from escalating into global health crises.

Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS)

• The report suggests creating an Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS), led by the Cabinet Secretary, to guide and monitor pandemic preparedness during non-crisis periods.
• This group would coordinate government efforts across various sectors like finance, research and development, and international collaboration to ensure a comprehensive response during health emergencies.
• EGoS would also develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for pandemics to ensure a quick and coordinated response.

Establishment of a National Biosecurity and Biosafety Network

• A National Biosecurity and Biosafety Network is recommended, including centers of excellence focused on researching high-risk pathogens.
• The network would also include laboratories for virus containment, ensuring rapid identification of pathogens, and sequencing of genetic material during outbreaks.
• By strengthening this network, India can improve its ability to respond to zoonotic diseases, such as those transmitted from animals to humans, which pose significant pandemic risks.

Independent Drug Regulation and Vaccine Production

• The report calls for the establishment of an independent drug regulator capable of approving new vaccines and treatments during pandemics more efficiently.
• It mentions the need for a Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) that is autonomous, independent from other ministries, and focused on ensuring the rapid availability of essential medicines and vaccines during emergencies.
• The report stresses the importance of India’s domestic production capabilities in vaccines and therapeutics, making it more self-reliant during global health crises.

Early Warning Systems and Modeling Tools

• A crucial element of the recommendations is the creation of an early warning system for pandemics. This would involve epidemiological tools that model disease spread and predict outbreak patterns.
• Such tools would enhance India’s ability to anticipate health emergencies and take preemptive action before outbreaks turn into full-blown pandemics.

Conclusion

The NITI Aayog report provides a comprehensive roadmap for India’s future pandemic preparedness. The recommendations focus on strengthening legal frameworks, improving surveillance systems, creating empowered government bodies, and establishing an independent drug regulatory framework. With these steps, India aims to be better equipped to manage health crises, ensuring faster and more effective responses to future pandemics.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding NITI Aayog?

1. NITI Aayog was established by an executive resolution of the Government of India.
2. It replaced the Planning Commission, which was set up by a constitutional provision.
3. NITI Aayog is responsible for formulating India’s Five-Year Plans.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A

Explanation:

NITI Aayog was established by an executive resolution of the Government of India in 2015.

The Planning Commission, which NITI Aayog replaced, was set up by a resolution of the Government of India, not by a constitutional provision.

NITI Aayog does not formulate Five-Year Plans; it focuses on long-term strategic planning and policy advocacy.

INDIA-KAZAKHSTAN JOINT MILITARY EXERCISE KAZIND-2024

TOPIC: (GS3) SEQURITY: PIB

The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise, KAZIND-2024, commenced in Auli, Uttarakhand.

This exercise focuses on enhancing cooperation in counterterrorism, particularly in semi-urban and mountainous terrains. It underscores the growing defense collaboration between India and Kazakhstan.

Context

• Location: Auli, Uttarakhand, India.
• Purpose: To improve interoperability and joint tactics in counterterrorism operations.
• History: KAZIND has been conducted annually since 2016, with the last exercise held in Otar, Kazakhstan, in 2023.

Key Details of KAZIND-2024

Participation:

• India: A contingent of 120 personnel from the Kumaon Regiment and the Indian Air Force.
• Kazakhstan: Forces include land forces and airborne assault troops.

Objectives:

• To bolster joint capabilities for counterterrorism operations.
• To enhance camaraderie and defense cooperation between the two nations.

Drills Conducted:

• Joint Response Operations: Exercises focusing on coordinated actions between the two forces.
• Intelligence Setup: Strategies for sharing and analyzing intelligence.
• Heliborne Operations: Training on deploying troops and equipment via helicopters.
• Cordon and Search: Tactics for isolating an area to search for suspects or materials.
• Drone Operations: Use of drones for surveillance and reconnaissance, along with counter-drone tactics.

Significance of KAZIND-2024

• Enhancing Defense Ties: This exercise reflects the strengthening of defense relations between India and Kazakhstan.
• Regional Security: The focus on counterterrorism highlights the shared commitment to regional security and stability.
• Operational Readiness: Training in varied terrains prepares the armed forces for real-world challenges.

Conclusion

KAZIND-2024 serves as a platform for both India and Kazakhstan to improve their military capabilities and cooperation in addressing common security challenges.

Through joint exercises, both nations aim to enhance their operational readiness and foster deeper defense partnerships. This exercise signifies a crucial step in building stronger ties and ensuring peace in the region.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following pairs of military exercises and participating countries are correctly matched?

1. Yudh Abhyas – India and the United States
2. Varuna – India and France
3. Shakti – India and Nepal
4. Indra – India and Japan

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 1, 2, and 3 only
3. 2 and 4 only
4. 1, 2, and 4 only

Answer: A

Explanation:

Yudh Abhyas is a joint military exercise between India and the United States.

Varuna is a naval exercise between India and France.

Shakti is a joint military exercise between India and France, not Nepal.

Indra is a military exercise between India and Russia, not Japan.

INDIA’S IMPRESSIVE LEAP IN THE GLOBAL INNOVATION INDEX 2024

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: PIB

India has secured the 39th position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024, marking significant progress in the country’s innovation capabilities.

Government programs like Start-Up India and Digital India have played a crucial role in making India a global leader in innovation.

Key Points:

• India’s Ranking: India ranked 39th among 133 economies in the Global Innovation Index 2024, a major leap from its 81st position in 2015.
• Driving Factors: Initiatives such as increased R&D investment, public-private partnerships, and policies promoting innovation have bolstered India’s innovation ecosystem.

Global Innovation Index (GII) Overview

• What is GII?
  The GII is an annual ranking that assesses the innovation capabilities and performance of nations. Published by WIPO, Cornell University, and INSEAD, it evaluates several indicators such as human capital, institutions, market sophistication, and infrastructure.
• Purpose of GII:
  GII serves as a tool to track innovation trends globally, offering insights to policymakers, business leaders, and researchers. It helps in identifying strengths and areas of improvement, supporting innovation-driven growth.

India’s Ranking in Various Categories:

Category	Ranking
Global Innovation Index 2024	39th out of 133 economies
Among Economies in Central and Southern Asia	1st
Among Lower-Middle-Income Economies	1st
Science & Technology Cluster (WIPO)	4th globally
Cities in World’s Top 100 S&T Clusters	Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai
Ranking in Intangible Asset Intensity	7th globally
Innovation Outputs	33rd globally

Key Initiatives Driving Innovation in India:

Start-Up India (2016):

• Launched to transform India into a nation of job creators.
• Over 1,49,414 startups are officially recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

Digital India Programme:

• Focuses on digital empowerment, governance, and enhancing infrastructure.
• Aims to bring digital transformation across industries.

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM):

• Established 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools.
• Supports over 3,500 startups, fostering an innovation culture in the education sector and beyond.

Public-Private Collaboration:

• India’s emphasis on collaboration between the private sector and public institutions has been a key factor in driving innovation.
• Strengthened Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) laws and innovation infrastructure have further enhanced India’s competitiveness globally.

Conclusion:
India’s remarkable rise in the Global Innovation Index 2024 reflects the success of its innovation policies and the government’s sustained effort to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem. With continued focus on innovation outputs, R&D, and strategic initiatives, India is positioned as a significant player in global innovation, leading in various sectors such as science, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. With reference to the Global Innovation Index (GII), consider the following statements:

1. The Global Innovation Index is published by the World Economic Forum.
2. The GII evaluates countries based on factors such as human capital, institutions, and market sophistication.
3. In the Global Innovation Index 2024, India ranked 1st among lower-middle-income economies.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 2 only

Answer: B

Explanation:

The Global Innovation Index is published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Cornell University, and INSEAD, not the World Economic Forum.

GII assesses countries based on various factors like human capital, institutions, infrastructure, market sophistication, etc.

In 2024, India ranked 1st among lower-middle-income economies.

GANDHI JAYANTI 2024: CELEBRATING MAHATMA GANDHI’S LEGACY

TOPIC: (GS1) HISTORY: PIB

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated every year on October 2nd to honour the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who is fondly known as Mahatma Gandhi or the Father of the Nation.

In 2024, India will observe his 155th birth anniversary, a day of significance not only in India but globally.

The values Gandhi stood for—non-violence, truth, and social justice—are deeply relevant in today’s world. Gandhi Jayanti is also recognized as the International Day of Non-Violence, promoting peace and harmony worldwide.

Significance of Gandhi Jayanti

• Birth Anniversary: Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. This day celebrates his enduring legacy and influence on India’s freedom struggle.
• Global Day of Non-Violence: October 2nd is also observed globally as the International Day of Non-Violence, highlighting Gandhi’s commitment to peace and conflict resolution.
• Cultural and National Celebrations: Events include prayer meetings at Raj Ghat, the place of Gandhi’s cremation, and discussions about his ideas of non-violence and truth.

Key Facts About Mahatma Gandhi

• Full Name: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
• Birth: October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat
• Family:
  • Father: Karamchand Gandhi, a Diwan (chief minister) in Porbandar
  • Mother: Putlibai, a deeply religious woman
• Spouse: Kasturba (Kasturba Gandhi)
• Education: Studied law in London, University College London
• Major Movements: Champaran Satyagraha, Salt March, Quit India Movement
• Death: January 30, 1948, by assassination
• Epitaph: “Hey Ram” were reportedly his last words
• Posthumous Recognition: Globally honored; his birth anniversary is observed as the International Day of Non-Violence.

Early Life and Education of Mahatma Gandhi

• Early Years: Born into a Hindu Modh Baniya family, Gandhi’s upbringing was deeply influenced by his mother’s religious devotion and values of honesty and simplicity.
• Education: He left for London in 1888 to pursue legal studies. Gandhi adapted to Western life while studying law and exploring intellectual ideas, which profoundly influenced his later work.
• Influences: Philosophers like Leo Tolstoy and John Ruskin, especially Ruskin’s Unto This Last, greatly shaped his vision of a just society, leading him to develop the principles of Sarvodaya (the welfare of all).

Gandhi’s South African Struggle

• Fight Against Racism: Gandhi’s time in South Africa, starting in 1893, was critical in shaping his political and ethical philosophy. Facing racial discrimination, notably being thrown off a train in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, for refusing to leave a whites-only compartment, led him to fight for the rights of Indian immigrants.
• Non-Violent Resistance: Gandhi began his first campaigns of nonviolent protest in South Africa, founding the Natal Indian Congress in 1894 and leading civil resistance against discriminatory laws. These experiences laid the foundation for his future leadership in India.

Return to India and Leading the Freedom Struggle

Return to India: Gandhi returned to India in 1915, bringing with him the methods of non-violent resistance that he had pioneered in South Africa. He soon emerged as a leader in India’s struggle for independence.

Major Movements:

• Champaran Satyagraha (1917): Gandhi’s first successful act of non-violent resistance in India, where he fought for the rights of indigo farmers.
• Kheda Satyagraha (1918): A movement to support farmers affected by crop failure, leading to tax relief.
• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22): A nationwide campaign that mobilized millions in opposition to British rule.
• Salt March (1930): Gandhi’s march to Dandi to protest British salt laws, a pivotal moment in the freedom struggle.
• Quit India Movement (1942): Gandhi’s call for immediate independence during World War II, which led to widespread protests across India.

The Quit India Movement and Final Struggle for Independence

• Do or Die: Gandhi’s powerful slogan during the Quit India Movement galvanized the Indian population against British rule. Though the movement was brutally suppressed, it marked the final push for independence.
• Partition and Gandhi’s Advocacy for Peace: As independence approached, communal tensions between Hindus and Muslims escalated. Gandhi worked tirelessly to promote peace and communal harmony, even in the face of violence during the partition of India in 1947.

Assassination and Legacy

• Assassination: On January 30, 1948, Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a tragic event that sent shockwaves through India and the world. His death was seen as a loss for humanity, but his principles of non-violence continue to inspire global movements.
• Influence on Global Leaders: Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela drew upon Gandhi’s teachings in their own struggles for civil rights and social justice.

Relevance of Gandhian Ideas Today

• Non-Violence: In a world plagued by conflict and violence, Gandhi’s philosophy of resolving disputes without violence is more relevant than ever.
• Truth and Integrity: Gandhi’s commitment to truth holds vital importance today, especially in combating misinformation and fake news.
• Self-Reliance (Swadeshi): The call for self-reliance, reflected in Gandhi’s Swadeshi movement, resonates with modern economic policies like Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
• Sustainable Living: Amidst growing concerns over environmental degradation, Gandhi’s advocacy for simple and sustainable living offers practical solutions for today’s challenges.

Conclusion

Gandhi Jayanti 2024 is a powerful reminder of Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring legacy, his non-violent approach to justice, and his relevance in today’s world. His life continues to inspire movements for peace, equality, and sustainability.

JAL HI AMRIT PROGRAM

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: PIB

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched the “Jal Hi AMRIT” program under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation 2.0 (AMRUT 2.0).

This initiative aims to enhance the quality of treated water in urban areas by improving sewage management and promoting water recycling. The program focuses on efficient treatment of wastewater to ensure sustainable use of water resources.

Key Features of Jal Hi AMRIT Program

Primary Objective:

• To incentivize state governments and urban local bodies to improve the management and treatment of used water (sewage) in sewage treatment plants (STPs).
• The goal is to ensure high-quality treated water that can be recycled and reused effectively.

Core Elements of the Program:

Clean Water Credit System:

• This system is designed to encourage competition among cities for better wastewater management.
• Cities will be evaluated based on their ability to treat wastewater, and credits will be awarded based on the quality of the treated water.
• STPs will receive certificates with a star rating (ranging from 3 stars to 5 stars), based on their performance in water treatment.
• The awarded credits will be valid for a period of six months.

Performance-Based Incentives:

• Financial or other rewards will be provided to STPs based on their star rating and the quantity of clean water credits they earn.
• This incentive structure promotes continual improvement in the quality of wastewater treatment.

Promotion of Water Circularity:

• The program encourages the concept of water circularity, where treated wastewater is reused, thus reducing the dependency on freshwater sources.
• This approach contributes to sustainable water management and conservation.

AMRUT 2.0 Overview

• Ministry: The program falls under the purview of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
• Duration: AMRUT 2.0 was launched in 2021 with a duration of five years, aiming to address urban water management challenges.

Purpose of AMRUT 2.0:

• Universal Water Coverage: AMRUT 2.0 seeks to provide functional water taps to all households in statutory towns, ensuring universal access to clean drinking water.
• Septage Management: The program also includes initiatives to manage septage in cities covered under the first phase of AMRUT. The objective is to ensure efficient wastewater management in at least 500 cities.

AMRUT 1.0:

• Launched in 2015, AMRUT 1.0 focused on providing essential urban infrastructure, such as water supply, sewage systems, stormwater drainage, and sanitation facilities in selected cities.
• The current AMRUT 2.0 builds on the foundation laid by AMRUT 1.0, with a stronger emphasis on improving water supply and managing used water resources.

Conclusion:

The Jal Hi AMRIT Program under AMRUT 2.0 is a crucial step towards sustainable water management in urban areas. By focusing on improving the treatment of wastewater and promoting its reuse, the program seeks to ensure that cities can effectively manage their water resources. The combination of performance-based incentives and the clean water credit system motivates cities to continually enhance their sewage treatment processes

CONSTITUTIONAL FLEXIBILITY: ENSURING RELEVANCE AND JUSTICE

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: PIB

The Chief Justice of India (CJI), D.Y. Chandrachud, has emphasized the evolving nature of the Indian Constitution, asserting that no generation has a monopoly over its interpretation.

This assertion highlights the Constitution’s capacity to adapt to the dynamic social, legal, and economic landscapes of the country, contrasting it with the U.S. doctrine of originalism.

The Constitution as a Living Document

• CJI Chandrachud advocates for the concept of a “living Constitution,” suggesting that the interpretation must evolve with societal changes.
• This perspective allows constitutional courts to address new challenges and issues that arise over time, keeping the Constitution relevant and effective.

Contextual Reading:

• The Constitution is read differently by each generation based on its unique social, legal, and economic context.
• As society progresses, contemporary issues, such as the legalization of adultery, require fresh interpretations to align with current realities.

Comparison with Originalism:

• The CJI contrasted India’s flexible approach with the U.S. doctrine of originalism, as illustrated by the 2022 ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which denied abortion rights based on the Constitution’s text.
• The rigid application of originalism can limit citizens’ rights, whereas India’s approach encourages adaptability.

Addressing Inflexibility:

• Strict adherence to the framers’ original intent can render the Constitution inflexible and unable to address modern challenges.
• CJI Chandrachud emphasized the need for broad interpretations to ensure the Constitution remains applicable in contemporary settings.

Importance of Constitutional Flexibility in Governance

Support for Progressive Change: An adaptable Constitution facilitates reforms that meet current societal needs, including advancements in technology and evolving human rights standards.

• Encouraging Legal Innovation: A living Constitution allows for creative legal interpretations that can tackle new challenges, such as privacy issues in the digital era.
• Protection of Rights: Flexible interpretations help safeguard citizens’ rights against conservative readings that could restrict freedoms and liberties.
• Adaptability: A dynamic constitutional framework ensures that institutions remain relevant in a rapidly changing world, particularly in a knowledge-driven economy.
• Incorporating New Realities: The doctrine of a living Constitution allows courts to include new social, economic, and legal realities in their interpretations, ensuring that rights evolve alongside society.

Nature of the Indian Constitution

• Hybrid Structure: The Indian Constitution combines features of both rigid and flexible constitutions, allowing for adaptability while ensuring stability in its fundamental structure.
• Protecting Fundamental Values: The rigid aspects ensure that fundamental rights and core principles remain protected from arbitrary changes.
• Preserving Federalism: While the federal framework is clearly defined, necessary amendments can adapt to new realities without compromising its essence.
• Balancing Welfare: The interplay between rigid rights and flexible Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) aids in balancing individual freedoms with collective welfare.
• Ensuring Stability: The rigid aspects require consensus for significant amendments, preventing rash changes that could destabilize governance.
• Fostering Democracy: Flexibility in legislative processes allows elected representatives to address public needs while adhering to constitutional limits.

Constitutional Amendment Procedures

Article 368: Article 368 outlines the processes for amending the Constitution, which includes two primary methods:

• Special Majority of Parliament: Certain provisions, such as amending Fundamental Rights, require a two-thirds majority in both Houses present and voting, ensuring significant parliamentary support.
• State Ratification: Other provisions, like the election of the President, require both a special majority in Parliament and ratification by at least half of the states, reinforcing the federal structure.

Simple Majority Amendments:

• Some provisions, like the creation of new states, can be amended with a simple majority, following the ordinary legislative process. This indicates that not all aspects of the Constitution require rigorous amendment processes.

Judicial Precedents on Flexibility

Golak Nath vs. State of Punjab (1967):

• The Supreme Court ruled that Article 368 only outlines the amendment procedure, emphasizing that Parliament cannot curtail fundamental rights and that all amendments are subject to judicial review.

Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973):

• The Supreme Court upheld Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution but asserted that it cannot alter its basic structure, highlighting a balance between flexibility and fundamental principles.

Conclusion

The balance between rigidity and flexibility in the Constitution is vital for maintaining a dynamic legal framework that addresses contemporary challenges. Embracing constitutional flexibility is essential for promoting justice, equality, and democratic governance in an evolving society. The Indian Constitution’s adaptability enables it to remain relevant, ensuring that it serves the needs of the people while upholding their fundamental rights.

NATIONAL MISSION FOR CLEAN GANGA: KEY UPDATES AND INSIGHTS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The recent 57th Executive Committee (EC) meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) focused on vital initiatives for the conservation of the Ganga River. The committee approved several projects aimed at enhancing the cleanliness of the river and conducting Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities for the upcoming Mahakumbh 2025.

National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)

• About NMCG: NMCG is essential for the rejuvenation and protection of the Ganga River and was registered as a society on August 12, 2011, under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
• Legal Framework: It acts as the implementing body of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA), constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. After the NGRBA was dissolved in 2016, NMCG continued under the National Ganga Council (NGC).

Management Structure

NMCG operates with a two-tier management structure:

• Governing Council: Oversees policies and directions.
• Executive Committee: Authorized to approve projects with financial outlays of up to ₹1,000 crore.

Five-Tier Structure for Ganga Rejuvenation

• National Ganga Council (NGC): Chaired by the Prime Minister of India, oversees all initiatives.
• Empowered Task Force (ETF): Focuses on river rejuvenation, chaired by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti.
• National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG): Implements various projects aimed at Ganga cleaning and rejuvenation.
• State Ganga Committees: Operate at the state level to execute specific measures.
• District Ganga Committees: Work at the grassroots level in districts adjacent to the Ganga River.

The Namami Gange Programme

Overview: An integrated conservation mission to address pollution and promote the conservation of the National River Ganga, approved as a flagship program in June 2014 with a budget of ₹20,000 crore.

Key Pillars of the Programme

• Sewage Treatment Infrastructure: To manage wastewater efficiently.
• River-Surface Cleaning: Removing solid waste from the river.
• Afforestation: Restoring green cover along riverbanks.
• Industrial Effluent Monitoring: Protecting the river from harmful discharges.
• River-Front Development: Creating public spaces to enhance community engagement and tourism.
• Biodiversity Enhancement: Supporting diverse biological communities in the river ecosystem.
• Public Awareness Initiatives: Educating citizens about the importance of river conservation.

Integrated Mission Approach

• Emphasizes the connection between economic development and ecological improvement, prioritizing areas like clean energy, biodiversity conservation, and wetland development.

Case Study: Recovery of the River Thames

• Background: The River Thames faced severe pollution in the 1950s, characterized as “biologically dead.” Urban pollution and inadequate sewage systems significantly reduced oxygen levels.
• The Great Stink of 1858: This crisis led to public health concerns, prompting the construction of an extensive sewage network designed by Sir Joseph Bazelgette.
• Restoration Efforts: By the 1970s, all sewage was treated, and regulations improved water quality. The establishment of the National Rivers Authority in 1989 was pivotal in maintaining water quality, with innovations like oxygenators enhancing aquatic health.

National Ganga Council (NGC)

• Constitution: Established in 2016 under the Environment (Protection) Act, following the dissolution of the NGRBA.
• Objectives: Ensure the rejuvenation, protection, and management of the Ganga River through coordinated policies and strategies.
• Functions: Formulates policies and monitors initiatives related to pollution abatement and ecological restoration, chaired by the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers of Ganga-flowing states.

Challenges in the Namami Gange Programme

• Data and Monitoring Gaps: Many projects remain unmonitored, leading to uncertainty about STP functionality.
• Tributary Neglect: Smaller rivers often receive less attention, hampering overall cleanup efforts.
• Industrial Pollution: Non-compliance with treatment regulations, particularly in industrial sectors, continues to impact water quality.
• Financial Management Issues: Reports indicate poor utilization of allocated funds, with significant amounts unspent during initial years.
• Environmental Threats: Activities like illegal sand mining further disrupt the river’s ecosystem.

Way Forward

• Improve Financial Management: Ensure transparent utilization of funds and implement rigorous auditing practices.
• Strengthen Regulatory Frameworks: Encourage industries to adopt sustainable practices through incentives.
• Revitalize Tributary Restoration Efforts: Focus on improving the health of tributaries and smaller rivers.
• Enhance Monitoring and Data Systems: Create a centralized database for better tracking and project management.

The sustainable rejuvenation of the Ganga River requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, balancing ecological health with community needs and expectations.