10-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

MPOX OUTBREAK AND VACCINE DELAYS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the epicentre of the global mpox outbreak, faced significant challenges in accessing vaccines. Despite the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring mpox a global health emergency, the DRC and other African countries experienced delays in receiving much-needed vaccines.

Mpox Outbreak:

• Mpox cases have been reported worldwide, with the DRC as the epicentre.
• Clade Ib variant: A more contagious variant has contributed to the rapid spread.

MPOX

A viral illness related to smallpox.

• Transmission: Primarily spreads through close contact with an infected person’s skin, sores, or bodily fluids.
• Symptoms: Fever, rash, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
• Risk groups: People with multiple sexual partners, men who have sex with men, and healthcare workers are at higher risk.
• Vaccines: There are vaccines available, but they may be in limited supply.
• Prevention: Avoid close contact with infected individuals, practice good hygiene, and get vaccinated if eligible.
• Treatment: Supportive care is often sufficient, but antiviral medications may be prescribed in severe cases.
• Global outbreak: In 2022, a global outbreak of mpox occurred, primarily affecting men who have sex with men.

Vaccine Delays:

• Limited availability: Vaccines have been in short supply in Africa, particularly in the DRC.
• WHO declaration: The WHO’s declaration emphasized the need for urgent action due to the limited vaccine access.

Available Vaccines:

• Multiple options: There are three main vaccines available, each with varying approvals and availability.
• New vaccines in development: Efforts are underway to develop additional vaccines.

Challenges in Vaccine Procurement:

• Cost: Vaccines are expensive, limiting access for low-income countries.
• Approval process: The WHO’s approval process can be time-consuming.
• Vaccine equity: Developed countries may prioritize their own populations, leading to inequity in vaccine distribution.

THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO) DECLARES A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY OF INTERNATIONAL CONCERN (PHEIC) WHEN:

An extraordinary event poses a public health risk to other countries

• Requires a coordinated international response.
• Potentially requires a coordinated international response.
• This declaration is made by the WHO Director-General based on the advice of the Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (IHR).

Factors considered for declaring a PHEIC include:

• The severity of the event.
• The potential for spread to other countries.
• The risk of international travel and trade disruption.
• The availability of effective countermeasures.

Examples of past PHEIC declarations include:

• COVID-19 pandemic (2020)
• Ebola outbreak in West Africa (2014)</>
• Zika virus outbreak (2016)
• Mpox outbreak (2022)

Key Differences Between Viruses and Other Organisms

• Acellular structure: Viruses lack cells, while other organisms are composed of cells.
• Obligate intracellular parasites: Viruses cannot replicate independently and require a host cell to reproduce.
• Non-living characteristics: Viruses lack many of the characteristics associated with life, such as metabolism and growth.
• Genetic material: Viruses can have DNA or RNA as their genetic material, while most other organisms have DNA.
• Ability to evolve: Like other organisms, viruses can adapt to changing environments and develop resistance to antiviral drugs.

Conclusion

The delayed access to vaccines in the DRC and other African countries has contributed to the global spread of mpox. Addressing vaccine inequity and accelerating vaccine development are essential steps in combating the outbreak.

Multiple choice question

1. Which of the following statements is incorrect about viruses?
2. Viruses are acellular organisms.
3. Viruses can replicate independently.
4. Viruses can only reproduce inside a host cell.
5. Viruses are classified based on their genetic material (DNA or RNA).

ANSWER: B

EXPLANATION:

Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only replicate inside a host cell. They lack the machinery necessary for independent replication.

SUPREME COURT STAYS ALLAHABAD HIGH COURT ORDER ON U.P. ASSISTANT TEACHERS’ SELECTION

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court has temporarily halted an order by the Allahabad High Court, which directed the Uttar Pradesh government to revise the selection list of 69,000 assistant teachers. This decision affects the recruitment process initiated in 2020 and 2022, impacting thousands of aspiring candidates.

• Supreme Court Stay: A Bench led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud stayed the High Court’s directive to prepare a new selection list, affecting 6,800 candidates.
• Notices Issued: The Supreme Court issued notices to the U.P. government with the next hearing scheduled for the week.
• High Court’s Initial Order: In August, the Allahabad High Court ordered the preparation of a new selection list for the assistant teachers while disposing of appeals challenging a previous single-judge Bench order from March 2022.

Original Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India

Original jurisdiction refers to the authority of the Supreme Court to hear cases that are brought directly before it, rather than on appeal.The Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction mainly covers disputes between:

• The Government of India and one or more states.
• The Government of India and any state(s) on one side and one or more states on the other.
• Two or more states.

Constitutional Basis:

• Article 131 of the Indian Constitution grants original jurisdiction to the Supreme Court in cases involving disputes between different levels of government.

Types of Disputes Handled:

• Disputes involving the interpretation of the Constitution.
• Matters concerning the enforcement of fundamental rights.
• Interstate water disputes, if specified by law.

Exclusions:

• Disputes related to treaties, agreements, covenants, and contracts entered into before the Constitution came into force are excluded from the Court’s original jurisdiction.

Exclusive Jurisdiction:

• In cases falling under Article 131, no other court, including High Courts, can exercise jurisdiction, making it exclusive to the Supreme Court.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s stay order has put the selection process of 69,000 assistant teachers on hold, with the next steps dependent on future hearings. This case underscores the ongoing challenges in public sector recruitment and the significant impact of judicial decisions on administrative actions.

Multiple choice Question

1. Consider the following statements about the powers of the Supreme Court of India:
2. The Supreme Court has the power to review its own judgments under Article 137.
3. The Supreme Court is empowered to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights under Article 32.
4. The Supreme Court has advisory jurisdiction under Article 143.

Which of the statements given above 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 Supreme Court has the power to review its own judgments under Article 137.

Article 137 of the Indian Constitution grants the Supreme Court the authority to review any judgment or order made by it. This power is essential for correcting errors and ensuring justice.

The Supreme Court is empowered to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights under Article 32.

Article 32 gives the Supreme Court the power to issue writs such as habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari to enforce fundamental rights. This article is often called the “heart and soul” of the Constitution as it ensures the protection of citizens’ rights.

The Supreme Court has advisory jurisdiction under Article 143.

Article 143 allows the President of India to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion on any question of law or matter of public importance. This advisory jurisdiction aids in guiding the executive on complex legal issues.

CHILD DEATHS AND MALNUTRITION IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN SOCIETY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

Child malnutrition remains a significant public health challenge in India, contributing to high mortality rates among children under five.

In 2021, India saw a disproportionately high percentage of child deaths linked to malnutrition, highlighting the urgent need for improved nutritional interventions.

Malnutrition and Child Mortality:

• In 2021, 0.7 million children under five died in India; 0.5 million of these deaths were linked to malnutrition, accounting for over 70% of the total.
• Globally, 4.7 million children under five died in the same year, with 2.4 million deaths (around 50%) attributed to malnutrition, showing India’s higher malnutrition burden.

Key Risk Factors:

• Low Birth Weight: A major risk factor often caused by maternal malnutrition or infectious diseases during pregnancy.
• Wasting and Stunting: Children who are underweight or too short for their age are more susceptible to infections and diseases.

Impact of Socioeconomic Factors:

• Malnutrition deaths are notably higher in low-income countries due to limited access to diverse nutrients and higher prevalence of infectious diseases.
• Death rates are significantly lower in richer countries due to better healthcare and nutrition.

Progress Over Time:

• Since 1990, child deaths related to malnutrition in India have dropped by 80%, from 2.4 million to 0.5 million, due to improvements in nutrition and healthcare.

MALNUTRITION: A PERSISTENT CHALLENGE IN INDIA

What is Malnutrition?Malnutrition is a condition that occurs when a person does not consume enough nutrients or the right balance of nutrients to meet their body’s needs.

• It can be caused by a lack of food, poor-quality food, or underlying health conditions. Malnutrition can lead to a variety of health problems, including stunted growth, weakened immune system, and increased susceptibility to diseases.

Data on Malnutrition in IndiaAccording to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the prevalence of malnutrition in India has declined in recent years, but it remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas. Some key statistics include:

• Stunting: The prevalence of stunting among children under five years of age has decreased from 38.4% in NFHS-4 to 35.7% in NFHS-5.
• Wasting: The prevalence of wasting among children under five has decreased from 6.8% to 6.1%.
• Underweight: The prevalence of underweight among children under five has decreased from 19.6% to 17.3%.

Why Infants Die of Malnutrition

• Infants are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition due to their rapid growth and developing immune systems.

Malnutrition can lead to:

• Weakened immune system: Making infants more susceptible to infections and diseases.
• Stunted growth: Affecting physical and cognitive development.
• Delayed development: Impacting motor skills, language development, and social skills.
• Increased mortality rate: Malnutrition is a major cause of infant mortality, especially in developing countries.

Reasons for Malnutrition in India

• Poverty: Many families in India live below the poverty line, making it difficult to afford nutritious food.
• Lack of awareness: Many people are unaware of the importance of nutrition for infants and young children.
• Limited access to healthcare: Many rural areas in India lack adequate healthcare facilities, making it difficult for children to receive essential nutrition and medical care.
• Food insecurity: Food insecurity, caused by factors such as drought, crop failures, and economic instability, can contribute to malnutrition.

India’s Efforts to Tackle Malnutrition

• National Nutrition Mission (NNM): The NNM is a flagship program aimed at improving nutrition outcomes in India.
• Anganwadi Centres: These centres provide early childhood care and development services, including supplementary nutrition.
• Food fortification: The government has implemented programs to fortify food items like rice, wheat, and edible oil with essential micronutrients.
• Public awareness campaigns: The government and NGOs conduct public awareness campaigns to promote healthy eating habits and the importance of child nutrition.
• Conditional Cash Transfer Schemes: Programs like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provide financial support to families, enabling them to afford nutritious food.

Conclusion:

Addressing child and maternal malnutrition, enhancing disease prevention, and improving healthcare access are crucial steps towards reducing child mortality rates and ensuring healthier futures for children in India.

Multiple choice Question

1. Which of the following correctly describes the terms related to malnutrition?
2. Malnutrition includes undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiencies.
3. Stunting in children refers to low weight for height.
4. Wasting in children is best defined as being overweight for their height.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

ANSWER: A

EXPLANATION:

This statement is correct. Malnutrition encompasses various forms, including undernutrition (which includes stunting and wasting), overnutrition (such as obesity), and deficiencies in essential micronutrients (like vitamins and minerals).

Stunting is characterized by low height for age, not weight for height. It indicates chronic malnutrition affecting growth over time

Wasting refers to low weight for height, not being overweight. It reflects acute malnutrition where a child is significantly underweighting for their height.

TRANSITION TO DYNAMIC AND REGISTER-BASED CENSUS IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU

India’s Census, delayed for years, faces criticism for outdated data impacting policy decisions.

A shift towards a dynamic, register-based Census could revolutionize data collection, enabling real-time updates, improved governance, and significant cost savings.

Need for Updated Census Data:

• India’s last Census was conducted in 2011, and the delayed next Census is expected to conclude around 2026-2027.
• Significant demographic changes, including India surpassing China in population, highlight the need for updated data.
• The traditional decennial Census leads to outdated data, hindering accurate policy-making and resource allocation.

Challenges of the Current Census System:

• The decennial Census is a time-consuming and resource-intensive process, making frequent data updates unfeasible.
• The growing gap between available demographic data and current realities hampers decision-making.

Dynamic and Register-Based Census

• A dynamic Census could provide real-time data updates, enhancing the relevance and accuracy of demographic information.
• Register-based censuses use administrative data from various sources (e.g., tax, employment, health records) and supplement gaps with smaller sample surveys.
• This approach has been adopted by countries like Austria, Denmark, Singapore, and the U.K., leading to substantial cost reductions.

Global Examples:

• Austria’s switch to a register-based Census cut costs drastically, from €72 million in 2001 to €10 million in 2011.
• The U.K. replaced its decennial Census with real-time administrative data collection after 2021, using varied data sources to maintain accuracy.

India’s Potential and Challenges:

• India’s strong Aadhaar-centric database provides a robust foundation for a dynamic Census.
• Integrating various data sets requires careful coordination but is feasible given India’s technical expertise.
• Regular small surveys could supplement gaps in real-time data updates.

Conclusion:

Transitioning to a dynamic Census system could transform India’s approach to data collection, making it more efficient and reflective of current realities. This shift would align India with global best practices and strengthen its governance framework in the digital age.

TWO ANTI-SUBMARINE WARFARE VESSELS FOR THE INDIAN NAVY LAUNCHED AT COCHIN SHIPYARD

TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Indian Navy has launched two anti-submarine warfare vessels, INS Malpe and INS Mulki, at Cochin Shipyard, strengthening its coastal defence capabilities.

These vessels are part of India’s effort to bolster maritime security and self-reliance.

Vessels Launched:

• Names: INS Malpe and INS Mulki
• Location: Launched at Cochin Shipyard
• Series: Part of an eight-ship series designed for anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters.

Specifications:

• Length: 78 metres
• Width:36 metres
• Draught:7 metres
• Maximum Speed: 25 knots
• Endurance: 1,800 nautical miles
• Displacement: 900 tonnes
• Propulsion Power: 12 MW

Design and Features:

• Sonar System: Equipped with indigenously developed sonar for underwater surveillance.
• Weapons: Includes light-weight torpedoes, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) rockets, and mines.
• Defence Systems: Features close-in weapon systems and stabilised remote-control guns.
• Advanced Technology: Integrates modern systems for enhanced coastal operations.

Purpose and Role:

• Primary Role: To replace the older Abhay-class ASW corvettes.
• Operations: Intended for anti-submarine warfare in coastal waters, low-intensity maritime operations, mine-laying, and search and rescue missions.
• Strategic Importance: Enhances India’s maritime security and capability to counter underwater threats in coastal regions.

Conclusion:

The launch of INS Malpe and INS Mulki marks a significant step in strengthening India’s coastal defence and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. These vessels reflect India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production and its strategic focus on safeguarding maritime interests.

ON THE CHALLENGES TO ROAD SAFETY IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The “India Status Report on Road Safety 2024” provides a comprehensive assessment of the country’s road safety situation. The report highlights the urgent need for improved road infrastructure, stricter enforcement of traffic rules, and enhanced public awareness to address the alarming rate of road accidents.

Key Findings

• Rising Fatalities: Road traffic injuries remain a significant public health problem in India, with fatalities increasing substantially in recent years.
• Vulnerable Road Users: Pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeler riders are disproportionately affected by road accidents.
• Truck Accidents: Trucks are responsible for the highest proportion of road accident fatalities.
• State Disparities: Road safety performance varies significantly across different states, with some states experiencing higher fatality rates than others.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Basic traffic safety measures like traffic calming, markings, and signage are often lacking in many areas.
• Low Helmet Usage: Helmet usage among two-wheeler riders remains low, contributing to a high number of fatalities.
• Inadequate Trauma Care: Trauma care facilities are often inadequate, leading to higher mortality rates.

Recommendations

• Improved Infrastructure: Invest in road infrastructure improvements, including safer roads, better lighting, and pedestrian crossings.
• Stricter Enforcement: Enforce traffic rules strictly, especially regarding speeding, drunk driving, and helmet usage.
• Public Awareness: Conduct public awareness campaigns to promote road safety behaviors and educate people about traffic rules.
• Enhanced Trauma Care: Improve trauma care facilities and ensure timely access to medical treatment for accident victims.
• Data-Driven Approach: Use data-driven approaches to identify accident hotspots and tailor interventions accordingly.
• International Collaboration: Learn from best practices in other countries and collaborate with international organizations to improve road safety.

Conclusion

Addressing road safety challenges in India requires a multi-faceted approach involving improved infrastructure, stricter enforcement, public awareness, and enhanced trauma care. By implementing these measures, India can significantly reduce road accident fatalities and improve the safety of its citizens.

INDIA, UAE INK PACT FOR CIVIL NUCLEAR COOPERATION

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU

India and the UAE have signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) for civil nuclear cooperation, marking a significant step in bilateral relations.

This agreement reflects the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, particularly in the field of nuclear energy.

Details of the MoU:

• Signatories: The MoU was signed between Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) and Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC)-led Barakah Nuclear Power Plant Operations and Maintenance.
• Occasion: The signing occurred during the visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to India.
• Historical Context: This is the first agreement of its kind, following the 2015 visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the UAE, where both nations agreed to collaborate in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Trilateral Cooperation:

• Background: The MoU follows discussions involving India, the UAE, and France, aimed at expanding cooperation in nuclear and solar energy.

Additional Agreements:

• LNG Supply MoU: An agreement was signed between Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. for long-term LNG supply.
• Petroleum Reserves: ADNOC also signed an agreement with India Strategic Petroleum Reserve Ltd. (ISPRL) for collaboration on petroleum reserves.
• Production Concession: Urja Bharat and ADNOC signed a Production Concession Agreement for Abu Dhabi Onshore Block 1.
• Food Parks Development: The Government of Gujarat signed an MoU with Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company PJSC (ADQ) for developing food parks in India.

Impact of India-UAE Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement

Enhanced Energy Security:

• The agreement strengthens India’s energy security by diversifying its nuclear energy sources, reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, and supporting the country’s long-term energy needs.

Boost to Nuclear Energy Development:

• Collaboration with the UAE, which has a rapidly developing nuclear sector, will provide India with insights into best practices in nuclear technology, safety standards, and maintenance operations.

Contribution to Clean Energy Goals:

• The agreement aligns with India’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy, contributing to national targets for sustainability and combating climate change.

Strengthening Trilateral Cooperation:

• The MoU complements ongoing trilateral cooperation between India, the UAE, and France in energy sectors, enhancing multi-nation efforts towards energy innovation and infrastructure development.

Job Creation and Skill Development:

• Increased collaboration in the nuclear sector is likely to create new job opportunities and foster skill development in advanced nuclear technologies for Indian professionals.

NUCLEAR ENERGY

Nuclear energy is produced by splitting the nuclei of atoms (nuclear fission) or combining them (nuclear fusion) to release energy in the form of heat.

• Primary Fuel: The most commonly used fuel in nuclear power plants is uranium, specifically uranium-235, which is highly efficient in releasing energy during fission.
• Energy Production: Nuclear reactors use the heat generated from fission to produce steam, which drives turbines connected to generators that produce electricity.
• Low Carbon Emissions: Nuclear energy is considered a clean energy source because it produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, helping to combat climate change.
• High Energy Density: A small amount of nuclear fuel can produce a large amount of energy, making it one of the most efficient sources of power.
• Nuclear Safety: Safety is a top priority in nuclear energy production, with stringent measures in place to prevent accidents, although historical incidents (e.g., Chernobyl, Fukushima) have raised concerns about potential risks.
• Nuclear Waste: Spent nuclear fuel is radioactive and must be carefully stored and managed to prevent environmental contamination.
• Global Usage: Countries like the United States, France, China, and Russia are leading producers of nuclear energy, using it as a significant part of their energy mix.

Conclusion:

This agreement and associated pacts highlight the deepening strategic ties between India and the UAE, enhancing collaboration in energy, food security, and economic investments. It marks a significant step in India’s quest for diversified energy partnerships and strengthens its position in the global nuclear energy landscape.