03-January-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

SAFE DISPOSAL OF BHOPAL’S TOXIC WASTE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Madhya Pradesh government has assured that incineration of 337 tonnes of toxic waste from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal will not harm the environment. The waste, transported to Pithampur, will be disposed of scientifically, despite local opposition.

Background of the Issue

• The waste originates from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal, the site of the 1984 gas tragedy.
• It includes 337 tonnes of chemical residue, transported to Pithampur, 35 km from Indore, for disposal.
• Residents and activists have expressed concerns about potential contamination of local soil and water.

Government’s Response

• Madhya Pradesh CM stated that scientific methods will ensure safe disposal without environmental harm.
• The waste comprises 60% soil and 40% chemicals like naphthalene, which scientists claim lose their impact after 25 years.
• Courts, including the High Court and Supreme Court, have reviewed disposal methods and deemed them safe.

Disposal Process

• Trucks carrying the waste in spill-proof containers left Bhopal under heavy security and reached Pithampur safely.
• The incineration is being carried out as per court orders, based on prior successful trials conducted in 2015.
• Reports from scientists confirm no harmful environmental impact during trial incinerations.

Public Engagement and Assurance

• Dhar district officials will engage with local representatives to address concerns.
• The government plans to address any remaining toxic waste at the Bhopal factory site.

INCINERATION

Incineration is the process of burning waste at very high temperatures to reduce it to ash, gases, and heat.

Purpose:
It is used to safely dispose of hazardous and non-biodegradable waste, minimizing its impact on the environment.

Benefits:

• Reduces waste volume significantly.
• Destroys harmful substances like toxic chemicals.
• Prevents pollution by safely handling hazardous materials.

Conclusion:
The Madhya Pradesh government asserts that scientific methods and court-approved processes will ensure the safe disposal of Bhopal’s toxic waste, addressing environmental and public concerns effectively.

Practice Question

1. Which of the following scientific methods are commonly used for waste disposal?

1. Landfilling
2. Incineration
3. Composting
4. Pyrolysis
5. Ocean Dumping

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1, 2, 3, and 4 only
2. 1, 3, 4, and 5 only
3. 2, 3, and 5 only
4. 1, 2, 4, and 5 only

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Landfilling: A common method where waste is buried in designated areas.
• Incineration: High temperature burning of waste to reduce its volume and destroy hazardous materials.
• Composting: Biological decomposition of organic waste into nutrient-rich compost.
• Pyrolysis: Thermal decomposition of waste in the absence of oxygen to produce energy or fuel.
• Ocean Dumping: Not considered a scientific or sustainable method due to its environmental harm and international regulations against it.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST IN GM CROP PANELS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has revised the rules for selecting experts in the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC). These changes aim to enhance transparency and ensure unbiased decision-making in regulating genetically modified (GM) crops.

Key Amendments to GEAC Rules

Disclosure of Interests:

• Experts must disclose any personal or professional connections that may conflict with their roles.
• Steps must be taken to prevent these interests from influencing decisions.

Conflict Resolution:

• Members linked to topics under discussion should declare their involvement.
• Such members are expected to step back from deliberations unless the committee explicitly requests their input.
• Experts must submit a record of their professional affiliations for the last decade before joining.

About Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)

Legal Framework: Operates under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Functions:

• Evaluates research and industrial activities involving GM organisms.

• Reviews applications for GM product releases, including field trials.
• Conducts environmental and risk impact assessments.

Composition: Chaired by senior officials from MoEF&CC, with representatives from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), scientists, and policymakers.

Supreme Court’s Role in GM Crops

• In July 2023, the Supreme Court urged the government to create a national GM crop policy.
• The court emphasized resolving conflict of interest concerns and issued guidelines for the regulation of GM crops.

Conflict of Interest and Implications

• Bias in Decisions: Conflicts may lead to recommendations favouring specific entities, compromising fairness.
• Erosion of Public Trust: Undisclosed conflicts can undermine confidence in regulatory authorities.
• Weakened Regulations: Biased decisions may prioritize private gains over public health and environmental safety.
• Legal and Ethical Challenges: Unaddressed conflicts could result in legal disputes and ethical concerns, harming the credibility of the system.
• Economic Consequences: Favouritism could promote unsafe products, negatively impacting the environment and public welfare.

Conclusion

The revised GEAC rules address longstanding concerns about transparency and fairness in GM crop regulation. Ensuring proper implementation of these rules is vital to build trust and safeguard public and environmental interests.

Practice Question:

1. With reference to Genetically Modified (GM) crops in India, consider the following statements:

1. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) operates under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
2. GM mustard is the only GM crop approved for environmental release in India.
3. The Supreme Court of India has mandated the creation of a national policy on GM crops.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: C

Explanation:

• The GEAC operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, not the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• Bt cotton is the only GM crop currently approved for commercial cultivation in India, not GM mustard. GM mustard received conditional approval, but its environmental release is still under deliberation.
• The Supreme Court has directed the government to formulate a national policy on GM crops.

DAP (DI-AMMONIUM PHOSPHATE) BEYOND NBS SUBSIDY

TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE: THE HINDU

The Indian government has extended the ₹3,500 per tonne subsidy on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertiliser to manage rising costs and maintain affordable prices for farmers. This move comes as a response to growing economic challenges and aims to support agricultural productivity.

Fertilizer Subsidy in India

• The government provides financial assistance to make fertilizers affordable for farmers, especially small and marginal farmers.
• Fertilizers like DAP are crucial for improving crop yield and agricultural productivity, but their high costs make them inaccessible without subsidies.
• In the 2024 Union Budget, ₹164,000 crore has been allocated for the fertilizer subsidy.

Extension of DAP Subsidy

• The government has decided to extend the ₹3,500 per tonne subsidy on DAP for another year starting January 1, 2025.
• Initially set to expire on December 31, 2024, this extension aims to prevent hikes in farmgate prices, which could burden farmers.
• The move is crucial in light of the rupee’s depreciation against the US dollar, which increases the cost of imports.

Impact of Price Control

• Despite decontrol of non-urea fertilizers, the government has kept Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs) fixed for DAP and other fertilizers to shield farmers.
• The MRP for DAP remains at ₹1,350 per 50-kg bag, while similar caps are maintained for fertilizers like 20:20:0:13 and muriate of potash.

Economic Pressures on Fertilizer Companies

• The current cost of imported DAP is ₹54,160 per tonne, up from ₹52,960 three months ago.
• When additional costs such as customs duties and handling charges are factored in, the total cost exceeds ₹65,000 per tonne.
• The government’s subsidy and fixed MRP contribute to a significant financial gap, making imports unsustainable without further government support.

Government Compensation

• To ease the financial burden on fertilizer companies, the government has agreed to fully compensate for DAP imports priced above $559.71 per tonne, valid from September 2024 to March 2025.
• However, the depreciating rupee undermines the effectiveness of the subsidy scheme, as it raises the cost of imports.

Challenges in Fertilizer Availability

• By mid-December, stock levels of DAP and complex fertilizers were lower than last year, raising concerns about future availability.
• The government must ensure sufficient imports of both finished products and raw materials to avoid shortages during the next kharif season.
• A shortage could negatively impact agricultural productivity and food security.

Conclusion

While the subsidy extension on DAP provides short-term relief, challenges like exchange rate volatility, import costs, and maintaining adequate stock levels remain critical for ensuring the long-term stability of the fertilizer sector and supporting agricultural growth.

Practice Question:  

1. Which of the following statements about fertilizer subsidies in India is/are correct?

1. The government provides subsidies to make fertilizers affordable for farmers, especially small and marginal ones.
2. The subsidy on urea is capped at ₹1,000 per tonne for all types of fertilizers.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation:

The government provides subsidies on fertilizers to ensure that they remain affordable for farmers, especially small and marginal ones. Fertilizer subsidies are essential for boosting agricultural productivity, and they are a major part of India’s agricultural policy.

The subsidy on urea is not capped at ₹1,000 per tonne for all fertilizers. The subsidy on urea is substantial but differs from other fertilizers. The subsidy amounts for different fertilizers like di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), complex fertilizers, and others vary, and the government manages these subsidies based on the prevailing market conditions.

INJECTABLE HYDROGEL FOR TARGETED CANCER TREATMENT:

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Researchers from IIT-Guwahati and the Bose Institute, Kolkata, have developed an innovative injectable hydrogel for precise cancer treatment. This hydrogel aims to minimize side effects by delivering drugs directly to tumors.

Key Highlights

About the Hydrogel

• Developed as a stable reservoir for anti-cancer drugs, ensuring controlled drug release.
• Specifically designed to protect healthy cells while targeting tumor sites.
• Composed of ultra-short peptides, the hydrogel remains insoluble in biological fluids for localised action.

Unique Features

• Mimics living tissues due to its water-based polymer network, making it suitable for biomedical use.
• Responds to high levels of glutathione (GSH), a molecule prevalent in tumor cells, to activate drug release.
• Promises revolutionary advancements, particularly for breast cancer therapy.

Challenges Addressed

• Overcomes the limitations of chemotherapy, which often harms healthy cells alongside cancerous ones.
• Offers a localised approach to reduce systemic side effects associated with conventional cancer treatments.

Potential Impact

• Marks a significant step forward in cancer treatment by integrating scientific innovation and targeted therapy.
• Provides a safer and more effective alternative to traditional chemotherapy methods.

Conclusion:
The injectable hydrogel developed by Indian researchers could transform cancer treatment, reducing side effects and enhancing precision in drug delivery, paving the way for advanced localized therapies.

GAPS IN SCHOOL INFRASTRUCTURE IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) polity: THE HINDU

A government report based on UDISE+ data highlights major infrastructure deficiencies in Indian schools, including issues with electricity, drinking water, toilets, and disabled-friendly facilities. These shortcomings significantly impact the quality of education and inclusivity.

Key Findings

Electricity in Schools

• Total schools: 14.71 lakh.
• Schools with functional electricity: 13.19 lakh.
• Schools without electricity: 1.52 lakh.

Drinking Water Availability

• Total schools: 14.71 lakh.
• Schools with drinking water: 14.11 lakh.
• Schools without drinking water: 67,000.

Toilet Facilities

• Total schools: 14.71 lakh.
• Schools with functional toilets: 14.04 lakh.
• Schools lacking toilets: 67,000.

Disabled-Friendly Facilities

• Only 3.37 lakh government schools have toilets designed for differently-abled students.
• Many schools fall short of creating an inclusive environment for disabled students.

way forward

• Improved Basic Facilities: Ensure reliable access to electricity, clean drinking water, and functional toilets in all government schools.
• Upgrade sanitation facilities and ensure all schools are disabled-friendly by providing ramps and specialized toilets.
• Increased Funding and Budget Allocation: Increase the allocation of funds for infrastructure development in the Union and State budgets, targeting urgent needs such as building classrooms

Concerns

• Insufficient infrastructure impacts student health, attendance, and learning outcomes.
• Lack of disabled-friendly facilities poses significant barriers to education for differently-abled children.

Conclusion

The report underscores the urgent need to address gaps in basic facilities, especially in government schools, to ensure equitable and quality education for all. Improvements in infrastructure can foster inclusivity and better learning environments.

SHOULD VOTER ID BE LINKED WITH AADHAAR?

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The debate over linking Aadhaar with voter ID aims to address voter fraud and enhance transparency in the electoral process. While Aadhaar can help eliminate duplicate entries, concerns about privacy and other limitations persist.

Purpose of Linking Aadhaar with Voter ID

• Aadhaar assigns a unique identity to individuals, preventing multiple voter registrations.
• It can aid in real-time authentication, reducing issues like proxy voting.
• Linking can ensure one voter ID per person, helping to clean up electoral rolls.

Advantages of Linking Aadhaar with Voter ID

• Elimination of Duplicate Entries: Helps identify and remove duplicate voter registrations caused by domestic migration or clerical errors.
• Streamlining Electoral Rolls: Ensures an updated and accurate voter list.
• Enhanced Security: Aadhaar’s secure biometric database can verify voter identities, minimizing impersonation risks.

Challenges and Concerns

• Citizenship Verification: Aadhaar is not proof of citizenship, so linking it with voter ID cannot confirm eligibility. The Election Commission must independently verify citizenship.
• Data Privacy Issues: Aadhaar contains sensitive personal information like biometrics and optional mobile numbers. Concerns arise over potential misuse, such as unsolicited communications from political or commercial entities.
• Technical Limitations: Linking Aadhaar may not solve human errors or administrative malpractice in the deletion of voter names. Booth capturing or other forms of election manipulation remain possible.

Existing Vulnerabilities

• Errors in voter roll management can lead to disenfranchisement due to human mistakes or intentional removal of names.
• Transparency and accountability in the electoral process need to be strengthened beyond technology.

IMPORTANT JUDGMENTS RELATED TO AADHAAR

K.S. Puttaswamy vs Union of India (2018):

• The Supreme Court ruled that Aadhaar is legal but set limits on its use.
• It cannot be made compulsory for things like mobile connections and bank accounts, except for government welfare programs.
• It also stressed that Aadhaar should be protected from misuse and privacy violations.

Binoy Viswam vs Union of India (2017):

• The Court said that linking Aadhaar with PAN cards cannot be made mandatory without proper legal support.
• It also raised concerns about privacy and ruled that the government should ensure this process is done following the law.

Jindal Stainless Ltd. vs Union of India (2017):

• The Court decided that Aadhaar cannot be made mandatory for opening bank accounts or filing taxes unless required by law.
• This reinforced the idea that Aadhaar should not be used for non-welfare purposes without specific legal approval.

Conclusion

While linking Aadhaar with voter ID can address duplication and streamline voter rolls, it cannot resolve issues rooted in human integrity or administrative bias. Comprehensive reforms and vigilance are essential for ensuring free and fair elections.

CASH TRANSFERS – A QUICK-FIX OR SUSTAINABLE WELFARE SOLUTION?

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: INDIAN EXPRESS

Cash transfers are often promoted as solutions for socio-economic challenges, ranging from poverty to unemployment. However, their growing use as a political tool raises concerns about their effectiveness as long-term welfare measures.

Cash Transfers:

• Definition: Cash transfers involve direct financial payments to individuals or households, often aimed at improving access to health, education, or basic necessities.

• Historical Example in India: The National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) provides pensions to vulnerable groups like the elderly, widows, and the disabled.

Political Appeal of Cash Transfers

• Ease of Implementation: With widespread access to banking, cash transfers are simple to deliver and are seen as tangible benefits by voters.
• Political Gains: Many schemes are timed before elections, boosting the popularity of incumbent governments.
• Direct Benefit to Beneficiaries: They bypass bureaucratic hurdles and are highly valued for their flexibility and lack of conditions.

Concerns About Over-Reliance on Cash Transfers

• Lack of Evidence: Studies show mixed results for objectives like women empowerment and farmers’ income stability.
• Short-Term Focus: Cash transfers address symptoms rather than underlying problems, avoiding complex policy reforms.
• Fiscal Strain: Competitive populism increases financial stress on governments, diverting funds from essential services like health and education.

Way Forward

• Supplement, Not Substitute: Cash transfers should enhance, not replace, investments in health, education, and nutrition.
• Balanced Approach: Governments must prioritize sustainable policies and infrastructure development over quick fixes.

EXAMPLES OF DIRECT BENEFIT TRANSFERS (DBT)

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Provides ₹6,000 annually to farmers in three equal installments to support agricultural needs.
• National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP): Offers pensions to elderly, widows, and disabled individuals for social security.
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA): Wages are directly transferred to workers’ bank accounts under this employment guarantee scheme.
• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): Facilitates DBT through financial inclusion by linking beneficiaries’ bank accounts to government schemes.
• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): Provides cash incentives to pregnant women and lactating mothers for their first child’s health and nutrition.
• LPG Subsidy (PAHAL Scheme): Transfers cooking gas subsidies directly to consumers’ bank accounts, reducing leakages.

Conclusion

While useful in certain contexts, cash transfers should complement broader reforms and not act as standalone solutions for complex socio-economic challenges.

OBESITY: A KEY DRIVER OF NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES (NCDS)

TOPIC: (GS3) HEALTH: THE HINDU

Obesity is a growing global concern, contributing significantly to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. It also impacts the overall quality of life, leading to various health complications and premature mortality.

Obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

• Obesity is a chronic condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation, which increases the risk of several NCDs.
• It is closely linked to diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancers.
• Obesity negatively affects mental health, sleep, and mobility, impacting an individual’s overall well-being.

Global Trends

• According to the WHO, one in eight people worldwide suffer from obesity, and one-third are overweight.
• The rate of obesity has doubled in adults since 1990, while adolescent obesity has quadrupled.
• Approximately 37 million children under five years are overweight, with 390 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 years overweight, and 160 million obese.

Childhood Obesity in India

• India ranks second globally in terms of childhood obesity, driven by factors such as reduced physical activity, high-calorie foods, and sugary drinks.
• Rising childhood obesity poses long-term health risks, including the early onset of NCDs.

Obesity in India

• Around 13% of India’s population is affected by obesity, a rate higher than many middle-income countries. Issues like “normal weight obesity” and “sarcopenic obesity” (high fat, low muscle mass) are emerging.
• A significant concern in India is increased waist circumference even in individuals with normal BMI. It is estimated that 65% of men and women have an unhealthy waist circumference. A healthy waist should be less than 90 cm for men and 80 cm for women.

Impact of Obesity

• Global and Economic Impact: Obesity causes 3.4 million deaths annually, with India ranking third after China and the USA in obesity-related deaths.

• The economic burden includes medical costs, productivity losses, absenteeism, and early mortality.
• Obesity also leads to psychological issues, including poor self-esteem and mood disorders.

Addressing Obesity

• Even modest weight loss can reduce the risk of NCDs, improving blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes management.
• Treatment includes lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity and healthy eating. Medications and bariatric surgery are options, though costly and with side effects.
• Recommendations include walking 6,000-8,000 steps daily, avoiding lifts, and limiting screen time. Employers can encourage physical activity by setting walking targets.

Conclusion

Combating obesity requires a holistic approach, combining awareness, lifestyle changes, and medical interventions. Regular physical activity and balanced diets play crucial roles in preventing and managing obesity and related NCDs.