08-October-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

CASTE-BASED DISCRIMINATION IN PRISON MANUALS AND ITS UNCONSTITUTIONALITY

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Supreme Court of India recently delivered a landmark judgment on October 3, 2024, declaring the caste-based division of labour in prisons as unconstitutional.

The ruling addresses several discriminatory provisions in prison manuals across various Indian states, which perpetuate caste-based labour assignments.

These practices, rooted in colonial laws and stereotypes, violate fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution, particularly Articles 14, 15, and 17, which guarantee equality and prohibit discrimination.

Key Issues Addressed by the Court

Caste-Based Labor Assignments in Prisons:

• Several state prison manuals assigned labour based on caste. For instance, lower-caste prisoners were often tasked with menial work like cleaning, while higher-caste prisoners were given more privileged roles such as cooking. This segregation reinforces caste hierarchies even within the prison system.
• Example: The Rajasthan Prison Rules, 1951, assigned latrine duties to individuals from the “Mehtar” caste, a Scheduled Caste (SC) community, while higher-caste prisoners, including Brahmins, were tasked with cooking.

Colonial-Era Practices:

• These provisions trace back to colonial-era stereotypes, especially those found in the now-repealed Criminal Tribes Act of 1871. This act classified certain communities as “born criminals” based on their caste or tribe, leading to a continued stigma even after independence.
• Despite the Act’s repeal, prison manuals continued to label some marginalized communities as “habitual offenders,” reinforcing discrimination.

Violation of Constitutional Rights:

• The Supreme Court held that the caste-based division of labour in prisons violates Article 14 (Right to Equality), which prohibits arbitrary discrimination, and Article 15, which specifically prohibits discrimination on the basis of caste.
• Furthermore, the segregation and assignment of duties based on caste violate Article 17, which outlaws untouchability in any form.
• The court noted that prisoners from marginalized communities were assigned menial tasks based on their caste, depriving them of dignity and reform opportunities, violating their right to life and dignity under Article 21.

The Supreme Court’s Observations

Discrimination in Labor Assignments:

• The court criticized the division of labour within prisons that assigned lower-caste prisoners to menial work while assigning privileged tasks to higher-caste prisoners. Such practices perpetuate caste-based discrimination, which should not exist in modern India.
• The practice of allocating cleaning and sweeping work to marginalized castes was highlighted as a blatant violation of equality and non-discrimination principles.

Reinforcement of Caste Stereotypes:

• The court highlighted that many state prison manuals continued to refer to marginalized communities, such as denotified tribes, as “habitual offenders” or individuals with a “natural tendency” to escape. These assumptions stemmed from colonial-era laws and stereotypes, further perpetuating discrimination against these communities.

Violation of Article 14:

• The court ruled that caste-based classifications could only be valid if they were designed to benefit those who have historically faced discrimination. However, in the case of prison manuals, the caste-based labour assignments reinforced discrimination rather than promoting equality.
• The differentiation of prisoners based on caste, habit, or supposed tendencies violated the principle of substantive equality under Article 14.

Indirect and Direct Discrimination:

• The prison manuals were found guilty of both direct and indirect discrimination. Direct discrimination occurred when certain tasks were reserved for specific castes, while indirect discrimination was present in the assumption that individuals from marginalized communities were only capable of menial tasks.

Directions Issued by the Court

Amendment of Prison Manuals:

• The Supreme Court directed all states and union territories to amend their prison manuals and rules within three months to abolish any discriminatory provisions based on caste.
• The court emphasized the need to eliminate caste-based labor divisions and ensure that prisoners are treated equally, regardless of their caste background.

Reform of the Model Prison Manual, 2016:

• The Union government’s Model Prison Manual of 2016 was also criticized for its vague definition of “habitual offenders,” which allowed states to label denotified tribes as offenders without conviction.
• The court directed that the 2016 Model Prison Manual, as well as the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act of 2023, be revised to remove discriminatory provisions.
• To ensure that the court’s directions are implemented effectively, district legal services authorities and boards of visitors were tasked with conducting regular inspections of prisons to ensure that discriminatory practices are abolished.

Immediate Reforms:

• States and union territories are required to revise their prison manuals within the stipulated three-month period, ensuring that caste-based labor divisions are eliminated.

Monitoring and Accountability:

• Regular inspections and monitoring will be carried out by legal services authorities to ensure that reforms are properly implemented and that caste-based discrimination is eradicated in prisons.

Long-Term Impact:

• This ruling sets a precedent for addressing caste-based discrimination in other institutions as well. The judgment reinforces the idea that caste-based practices, even in systems like prisons, are unacceptable in modern India and must be dismantled to ensure equality for all citizens.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s decision marks a crucial step towards eradicating caste-based discrimination within India’s prison system. By striking down discriminatory provisions in prison manuals, the court has upheld the fundamental rights of prisoners and reaffirmed the constitutional values of equality, dignity, and justice for all.

ULTRA-PROCESSED FOOD AND ITS LINK TO DIABETES IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

India has become one of the largest hubs for diabetes worldwide. A recent clinical trial published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition has identified a diet rich in advanced glycation end products (AGEs), commonly found in ultra-processed and fast food, as a major contributing factor to the rising diabetes rates in the country.

This study, funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, emphasizes the detrimental role of these harmful compounds in promoting inflammation, which leads to diabetes.

Key Findings of the Study

• Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are harmful compounds formed when sugars react with fats or proteins during high-temperature cooking methods like frying or roasting.
• These compounds are linked to inflammation, which is a significant factor in the development of diabetes.

Impact of High-AGE Diets:

• The study found that diets high in AGEs increase the risk of inflammation in the body, leading to insulin resistance.
• Insulin resistance is one of the key mechanisms that leads to the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Low-AGE Diets Show Improvement:

• Participants on a low-AGE diet exhibited increased insulin sensitivity and lower levels of inflammation compared to those on high-AGE diets.
• This suggests that adopting a low-AGE diet could help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Increasing Diabetes Prevalence in India

Rising Numbers:

• India has over 101 million individuals with diabetes, a number that continues to grow.
• Along with diabetes, pre-diabetes and obesity rates are also increasing globally, particularly among Asian populations, including Indians.

Ultra-Processed Foods as a Major Contributor:

• Processed foods high in sugar, fat, salt, and AGEs have been identified as key contributors to the rise in chronic diseases such as diabetes. The Western diet, which heavily features these foods, has already been linked to increased disease risk.
• The study confirms that a similar pattern is emerging in India, where the consumption of processed, fast foods is leading to an uptick in diabetes cases.

The Role of Glycation in Inflammation

Glycation Process:

• Glycation is a chemical reaction where a sugar molecule binds to a protein or fat molecule, resulting in harmful by-products in the body.
• This non-enzymatic process triggers inflammation and other negative reactions in the body, contributing to conditions like diabetes.

Oxidative Stress:

• A high-AGE diet increases oxidative stress, where an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants causes cell damage and inflammation.
• In contrast, a diet low in AGEs can help reduce this stress, lowering the chances of diabetes.

Recommendations from the Study

Adopt Low-AGE Diets:

• The researchers recommend shifting towards a low-AGE diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
• Such a diet can significantly reduce the body’s inflammation and improve overall health.

Healthier Cooking Practices:

• Boiled or steamed foods should replace fried or roasted options.
• Avoiding bakery items and sugary foods can also reduce AGE intake and thus lower the risk of diabetes.

Traditional Diets Are Beneficial:

• The study emphasizes the need to return to traditional Indian diets, which primarily consisted of fresh, minimally processed foods. These diets, rich in vegetables and low in AGEs, can play a crucial role in diabetes prevention.

INSULIN

Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and is important for understanding diabetes, a chronic disease that occurs when the body doesn’t process blood sugar properly:

• Insulin

A chemical messenger that helps cells absorb glucose, a sugar, from the blood. The pancreas produces insulin in response to blood glucose levels, with higher levels triggering more insulin production.

• Diabetes

A disease that occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use insulin effectively. This results in high blood sugar levels, which can lead to serious health complications.

There are different types of diabetes, including:

• Type 1 diabetes

An autoimmune reaction that prevents the body from producing insulin. It’s usually diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults.

• Type 2 diabetes

The body’s cells become resistant to insulin, and the body may also produce less insulin. It develops over many years and is usually diagnosed in adults, but it’s also increasingly being diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults.

Conclusion:

The study underscores the growing link between ultra-processed, AGE-rich foods and the increasing diabetes rates in India. By shifting to healthier, traditional diets and reducing the consumption of processed and fast foods, individuals can significantly lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This research reinforces the importance of dietary choices in managing and preventing lifestyle diseases like diabetes.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding Insulin and Diabetes:

1. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels by promoting the absorption of glucose into cells.
2. Type 1 Diabetes occurs due to the body’s inability to produce insulin.
3. Type 2 Diabetes is primarily caused by the body’s immune system attacking insulin-producing cells.

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. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A

Explanation:

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, thus reducing blood sugar levels.

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production.

Type 2 Diabetes is primarily caused by the body’s resistance to insulin or the pancreas’s inability to produce enough insulin, not by the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells.

GROWTH IN INDIAN WILD ASS POPULATION IN GUJARAT

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Indian wild ass, an endangered species mainly found in the Little Rann of Kutch and the Greater Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, has seen a significant population increase over the last few years.

The 10th Wild Ass Population Estimation (WAPE) conducted in 2024 by the Gujarat government reported a 26.14% rise in the species’ population. This is a positive sign for conservation efforts aimed at protecting the endangered species.

Key Findings from the Wild Ass Population Estimation 2024

Population Growth:

• The population of Indian wild asses in Gujarat has increased from 6,082 in 2020 to 7,672 in 2024, marking a 26.14% rise in the last four years.
• The species is currently classified as endangered, with its primary habitat limited to the Rann of Kutch region.

Protected Status:

• Indian wild asses are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, providing them the highest level of protection.
• They are also included in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List since 2008, which categorizes them as endangered due to their limited population.

Breakdown of Population Distribution:

• The latest estimation shows significant population growth in districts like Patan, Kutch, and Surendranagar.
• Patan witnessed the largest increase with 962 new individuals, followed by Kutch (749) and Surendranagar (671). The population in these districts reflects a growing trend compared to previous years.
• On the other hand, districts like Morbi, Banaskantha, Ahmedabad, and others saw a decrease in numbers, with declines ranging from 12 to 530 individuals.

Habitat Classification:

• The government report categorized the habitat of wild asses into forest and non-forest areas. The forest and sanctuary areas recorded a population of 2,569 individuals, while revenue areas showed 558 wild asses.
• In addition to the population estimates, the report highlighted the presence of 584 foals, a positive sign for the future growth of the species.

Government Initiatives and Wildlife Conservation:

• Minister of State for Forest and Environment Mukesh Patel emphasized the significance of the increase in population during Wildlife Week (October 2-8).
• The WAPE 2024 was conducted using the Direct Count Method across 15,150 square kilometres, adopting modern monitoring techniques such as drones, camera traps, and satellite-based data.

Conservation Efforts

Modern Techniques for Monitoring:

• The WAPE 2024 survey utilized modern wildlife monitoring tools, including drones, camera traps, and advanced software, to ensure accurate and efficient data collection.

Positive Trends in Wildlife Protection:

• Gujarat’s wildlife, particularly the Indian wild ass, has been showing upward trends in population growth since 1976, when there were only 720 wild asses.
• Additionally, the survey recorded other important wildlife species such as Asiatic lions, gazelles, blackbucks, and jackals.

Sustainable Management of Wildlife:

• The Gujarat government has taken significant steps toward wildlife conservation, with special programs organized for the protection of endangered species.
• Wildlife Week provided a platform to highlight ongoing conservation efforts and to continue supporting endangered species through focused strategies.

WILD ASS SANCTUARY

Location:

• The Wild Ass Sanctuary is located in the Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, India.
• It is the sole habitat of the Indian wild ass, locally known as Khacchar.
• The sanctuary also hosts populations of Rabari and Bharwad tribes.

Topology:

• The sanctuary is an ecotone, acting as a transitional zone between marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
• It features a dry landscape covered with dark silt and salt deposits.
• There are around 74 raised landforms, locally referred to as ‘bets’.
• During the monsoon season, large sections of the area are submerged, with water levels reaching up to 2 meters in depth.

Flora:

• The sanctuary is predominantly covered in dry, thorny vegetation, with the exception of some larger trees found on the fringes and bets.
• Common plant species include Morad, Unt morad, Theg, Dolari, Khijdo, Kerdo, Mithi jar, Kheri pilu, and Akado.

Fauna:

• Apart from the Indian wild ass, other mammals in the sanctuary include:
  • Blackbuck
  • Nilgai
  • Bluebull
  • Hare

Conclusion

The increase in the Indian wild ass population is a clear indicator of the success of Gujarat’s conservation efforts. Through the use of modern techniques and focused policies, the state has managed to protect and sustain this endangered species, ensuring its survival in the future.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements about the Wild Ass Sanctuary:

1. The Wild Ass Sanctuary is the only habitat of the Indian wild ass, locally known as Khacchar.
2. The sanctuary is characterized by elevated landforms known as ‘bets’ that get submerged during the monsoon season.
3. Blackbuck and Nilgai are among the animals found in this sanctuary.

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. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: D

Explanation:

The Wild Ass Sanctuary is the only place in the world where the Indian wild ass (Equus hemionus khur), locally known as Khacchar, is found. It is located in the Little Rann of Kutch in Gujarat.

The sanctuary is dotted with elevated plateaus or islands called ‘bets’. These areas remain dry during certain seasons but get flooded during the monsoon, with water levels reaching up to 2 meters.

Besides the Indian wild ass, other mammals like Blackbuck and Nilgai are found in this sanctuary, along with a variety of other fauna.

AGRI SECTOR REPORT CARD

TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE: THE HINDU

India’s agricultural sector has witnessed significant growth in recent years, especially during the tenure of the Narendra Modi government.

According to a report from NITI Aayog, the growth is largely driven by livestock, fisheries, and horticulture, with comparatively slower growth in crop production.

Key Insights from the Report

Overall Agricultural Growth:

• The average annual growth rate in the value of agricultural output (Gross Value Added – GVA) between 2014-15 to 2022-23 stood at 3.94%.
• Livestock (5.76%), fisheries (9.08%), and horticulture (3.94%) registered higher growth, whereas crop production showed slower growth.
• The paper highlights how non-crop sectors like livestock and aquaculture have driven much of the agricultural growth over the past decade.

Comparison with Previous Governments:

• The growth in agriculture during the Modi government’s tenure (2014-2023) is compared with the previous two decades. Between 1984-1993, agricultural GVA growth averaged 2.9%, and during 1994-2005, it was 3%.
• The annual growth in agriculture picked up post-2014, thanks to several policy initiatives and an increasing focus on livestock, fisheries, and horticulture.

Shifts in Agricultural Focus:

• The NITI Aayog report points to a shift in India’s agricultural economy, away from traditional crop farming toward livestock, poultry, fisheries, and horticulture.
• It notes that crop production, which traditionally dominated India’s agricultural output, has slowed down. Non-crop sectors, particularly animal husbandry and aquaculture, have become major contributors to agricultural growth.

Regional Variation in Growth:

• Table 2 of the report highlights that states like Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu have shown strong growth in the agricultural sector.
• Andhra Pradesh showed remarkable progress across sectors like crops, livestock, and fisheries.
• Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan also emerged as top-performing states in agricultural GVA growth during the period.

Horticulture and Livestock Drive Growth:

• Horticultural crops, including fruits, vegetables, and spices, saw an annual growth rate of 3.94%.
• Livestock, including milk, poultry, and eggs, registered robust growth. Poultry meat saw the highest growth at 9.22%, followed by milk (5.65%) and eggs (7.57%).
• Fishing and aquaculture topped the chart with a staggering 9.08% annual growth.

Policy Takeaways from the Report

Technological Advancements:

• One of the key reasons for the rise in productivity has been the introduction of new technologies and hybrid seeds. These advancements have facilitated the diversification of agricultural production, especially in horticulture and livestock.
• New techniques in dairy and fisheries have also improved yields and created employment opportunities in rural areas.

Diversification of Agriculture:

• The increased focus on sectors like animal husbandry and fisheries has reduced the reliance on traditional crop farming, which is more susceptible to climatic variations.
• This shift is supported by the growing consumer demand for milk, meat, eggs, and fish, which has spurred significant investment and innovation in these areas.

Agricultural Income and Employment:

• A survey conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO) for 2019-20 revealed that only 44.2% of agricultural households primarily earned their income from traditional crop farming.
• The remaining households derived their earnings from livestock and other non-crop activities, indicating a major transformation in rural employment patterns.

Need for Continued Focus on Crops:

• While non-crop sectors have thrived, crop production remains essential for ensuring food security. The slow growth of certain crops, such as cereals and pulses, calls for continued attention and investment to sustain production levels.
• The government is encouraged to balance its focus on crop and non-crop sectors to ensure overall agricultural growth.

Conclusion

India’s agricultural sector has grown significantly in the last decade, primarily driven by the expansion of non-crop sectors like livestock, fisheries, and horticulture. While traditional crop farming has slowed, the diversification of agricultural activities has ensured sustained rural growth. The NITI Aayog report highlights the need for policymakers to continue supporting innovation in agriculture, particularly in non-crop sectors, while ensuring food security through strategic investments in crop production.

INDIA-MALDIVES CURRENCY SWAP AGREEMENT

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

India and Maldives have recently signed a $750 million currency swap deal, aiming to support the Maldives during its ongoing foreign exchange crisis. This agreement is part of India’s broader strategy to strengthen bilateral relations with its neighbours, particularly in times of economic distress.

What is a Currency Swap Agreement?

• A currency swap agreement allows two countries to exchange their currencies to maintain foreign exchange reserves and manage liquidity.
• In this case, India has provided the Maldives with access to its currency reserves, helping the Maldives stabilize its economic situation.

Key Features of the Agreement

• Total Value: The agreement is valued at $750 million, with $400 million provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and ₹3,000 crore under the SAARC Currency Swap Framework.
• Duration: The agreement will be in place until 2027, offering long-term support.
• Purpose: It aims to help the Maldives manage its foreign currency crisis and provide much-needed liquidity for its international financial obligations.

Importance of the Currency Swap for the Maldives

• Stabilizing Foreign Exchange Reserves: The Maldives has been facing a severe shortage of foreign currency. This swap deal will help stabilize its reserves, ensuring liquidity for international trade and payments.
• Supporting Economic Recovery: With enhanced access to foreign currency, the Maldives will be better equipped to meet its debt repayments. This will aid in long-term economic recovery and financial stability.
• Boosting Tourism: Tourism is the primary revenue source for the Maldives, and this agreement signals confidence in its economic future. It could encourage more Indian tourists and investors, boosting the sector.
• Infrastructure Development: India is also involved in several infrastructure projects in the Maldives, such as home constructions and airport runway expansion. The currency swap will ensure financial backing for these initiatives, promoting job creation and development.
• Strengthening Bilateral Relations: This deal highlights India’s role as a reliable partner for the Maldives. It strengthens cooperation not only in economic matters but also in security and trade, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations.

Conclusion

The $750 million currency swap agreement between India and the Maldives underscores India’s commitment to helping its neighbours during times of economic difficulty. The deal offers crucial support for the Maldives’ economic recovery, foreign exchange stability, and bilateral relations between the two countries.

GENOME EDITING AND ITS ROLE IN STUDYING HEREDITARY CANCERS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Genome editing, particularly using advanced techniques like CRISPR, is revolutionizing cancer research and treatment. By allowing precise alterations in the DNA of living cells, scientists are gaining deeper insights into hereditary cancers.

This cutting-edge technology holds great promise in correcting genetic mutations, overcoming drug resistance, and offering personalized cancer therapies.

What is Genome Editing?

• Definition: Genome editing is a scientific process that modifies the DNA of living organisms to alter or correct specific genes. It allows scientists to make precise changes at desired locations within the genome.
• Techniques: The most popular genome editing technique is CRISPR-Cas9, which acts like molecular scissors to cut DNA at specific points. After cutting, the DNA can be repaired or modified, allowing scientists to add, remove, or change genetic material.
• Applications: Genome editing has vast applications in research, medicine, and agriculture. In medicine, it holds the potential to treat genetic disorders, including cancer, by correcting defective genes.

The Role of Genome Editing in Cancer

• Genome editing provides significant advantages in cancer research and treatment by focusing on the genetic roots of the disease. This technology allows scientists to explore how specific genes drive cancer and develop better strategies for treatment and prevention.

Correcting Genetic Mutations

• Mutations in certain genes can cause cells to grow uncontrollably, leading to cancer. Genome editing can target these specific mutations and correct them, restoring the normal function of the gene. This approach has the potential to directly cure hereditary cancers by addressing the root cause.

Identifying Drug Targets

• Genome editing helps researchers understand the role of genes in cancer progression. By studying how different genetic changes influence tumor growth, scientists can identify new drug targets, which may lead to the development of more effective treatments.

Personalized Cancer Therapies

• Cancer treatment often varies based on a patient’s unique genetic makeup. Genome editing can be used to design personalized therapies that target the specific genetic mutations present in an individual’s tumour. This makes treatments more effective and reduces the risk of side effects compared to traditional one-size-fits-all approaches.

Overcoming Drug Resistance

• Many cancers develop resistance to standard treatments like chemotherapy. Genome editing allows researchers to study cancer cells’ response to treatments and identify ways to bypass this resistance. By altering specific genes, new treatment strategies can be developed to make cancer cells more sensitive to therapies.

Early Detection and Prevention

• Genome editing tools can be used to detect early genetic changes that may predispose individuals to cancer. Identifying these changes before cancer develops can enable preventive measures, such as increased screening or preventive surgeries. In hereditary cancers, genome editing could play a vital role in early diagnosis.

Future Prospects and Ethical Considerations

• Promising Tool for Cancer Therapy: Genome editing is seen as one of the most promising tools for future cancer treatments. The ability to directly modify genetic material gives scientists unprecedented control over how cells behave, offering hope for more effective therapies with fewer side effects.
• Ethical Concerns: However, there are ethical challenges surrounding genome editing. Questions about its use in humans, especially regarding heritable genetic modifications, need to be addressed with caution. Strict guidelines and ethical oversight are essential to ensure that genome editing is used responsibly.

Conclusion

Genome editing is opening new avenues in the study and treatment of hereditary cancers. Techniques like CRISPR are allowing scientists to correct harmful mutations, develop personalized therapies, and overcome drug resistance. As this technology continues to advance, it holds the potential to transform cancer care and lead to more effective, targeted treatments. However, the ethical implications must be carefully managed to ensure responsible use of this powerful tool.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDINGS: A STEP TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

As India’s cities grow and urban populations increase, the need for sustainable infrastructure becomes more pressing. High-Performance Buildings (HPBs) are an essential solution to tackle these challenges.

These buildings not only reduce energy consumption but also enhance the well-being of their occupants. They are crucial for India’s journey toward meeting climate goals and creating sustainable urban environments.

Importance of Sustainability in the Building Sector

• Environmental Impact: Buildings are major contributors to global emissions, accounting for about 40% of total energy consumption and around 28% of energy-related carbon emissions.
• India’s Building Sector: In India, buildings consume more than 30% of the nation’s energy and contribute 20% of carbon emissions. With rapid urbanization, adopting sustainable practices is vital for reducing this impact.
• Urgency of Climate Action: As urban areas expand, sustainable construction becomes more critical to address climate challenges and meet energy efficiency targets.

What are High-Performance Buildings (HPBs)?

• Definition:
  HPBs are designed to exceed standard regulatory requirements for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. They optimize energy, water, and material use while enhancing occupant comfort.
• Key Technologies:
  HPBs use advanced technologies such as:

• Energy-efficient HVAC systems
• Smart lighting solutions
• Greywater recycling systems
• Real-time performance monitoring

Benefits of High-Performance Buildings

• Energy and Cost Savings:
  HPBs reduce environmental impact by using less energy and water, leading to significant cost savings over time.
• Long-term Efficiency:
  These buildings are equipped with smart systems that ensure optimal resource use and extend the lifespan of building components.
• Enhanced Occupant Comfort:
  With better air filtration, natural light, and temperature control, HPBs provide a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment.
• Higher Property Value:
  Due to their efficiency and lower operational costs, HPBs tend to have higher property values and are attractive long-term investments.

HPBs and Urban Development in India

• Resource Efficiency:
  HPBs help cities manage resource scarcity by promoting energy and water efficiency, reducing the strain on public infrastructure.
• Supporting a Low-Carbon Economy:
  By adopting HPBs, India can reduce its carbon emissions and move towards a low-carbon economy while addressing urban development challenges.

Conclusion

High-Performance Buildings are essential for sustainable urban development in India. They provide long-term environmental, economic, and social benefits, making them a critical part of the country’s efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable growth.

The decline in India’s academic freedom over the last decade is concerning, with political control and restrictions on expression within universities being key issues. As India continues to face these challenges, balancing autonomy in higher education with governance remains critical to preserving academic freedom.

AMAZON RIVER FACES HISTORIC LOW WATER LEVELS DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Amazon River, the largest river in the world, is currently experiencing an unprecedented decline in water levels due to climate change-induced droughts.

This situation is causing severe disruptions in transportation, commerce, and the ecosystem, highlighting the increasing impact of global climate change on vital natural systems.

Impact on Transportation and Commerce

• Essential Route Blocked: The Amazon River is a crucial transportation route for remote regions in South America, particularly in the Brazilian state of Amazonas. The river’s shrinking water levels have made it difficult for boats to navigate, resulting in a gridlock.
• Community Struggles: Communities relying on the river for transportation are severely affected. Children face difficulties reaching schools, patients struggle to access hospitals, and vital supplies, such as medicine and drinking water, cannot be delivered effectively.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: In the city of Manaus, a major industrial hub, shallow waters are preventing cargo ships from docking, severely disrupting supply chains and commerce.

What is Dredging?

• Dredging Explained: Dredging involves removing sediments and debris from the bottom of water bodies like lakes, rivers, and harbours. It is a routine process used to maintain the depth of navigable waterways by clearing out naturally occurring sand and silt deposits.

Dredging as a Solution

• Continuous Dredging Plan:
  In response to the river’s critical condition, Brazil has resorted to continuous dredging of the Amazon River. Initially considered an emergency measure, this dredging operation will now be ongoing for the next five years to ensure that boats can continue to navigate the river.
• Adapting to Extreme Weather:
  This measure reflects the broader shift towards employing drastic methods to cope with extreme climate conditions, acknowledging the reality that climate change is already reshaping daily life in affected regions.

Broader Impact of Climate Change on the Amazon

• Amazon Rainforest at Risk:
  The Amazon River’s low water levels are indicative of wider climate threats to the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest tropical forest and a critical absorber of greenhouse gases. The ongoing droughts are disrupting the ecosystem and contributing to the global climate crisis.
• Global Significance:
  As the Amazon River Basin plays a critical role in global climate regulation, these changes underscore the need for long-term solutions to protect this vital region and address the broader challenges posed by climate change.

Conclusion

The ongoing droughts in the Amazon River highlight the urgency of addressing climate change, not just for the region but for the entire world. Sustainable measures are needed to ensure the protection of both the Amazon River and the rainforest for future generations.