16-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

REALISING THE RURAL-URBAN CONTINUUM

TOPIC: (GS2) SOCIETY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

India is experiencing significant demographic changes, with urbanization increasingly blending the boundaries between rural and urban areas.

Addressing the needs of both rural and urban populations within this rural-urban continuum is essential for holistic infrastructure development and governance. This shift primarily affects Tier II and Tier III cities, along with the peripheries of major urban centres.

Current Policy Framework

• Over-centralization of finances has led to challenges in local governance.
• Financial decentralization has weakened, limiting the autonomy of local bodies.
• The 13th Finance Commission highlighted the struggle of local bodies due to a lack of funding autonomy.
• The rise in property tax in cities needs to be linked with the increased financial demands on the urban and peri-urban areas.

Issues with Funding

• Tied nature of grants affects urban infrastructure projects.
• Schemes such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) focus on urban infrastructure, but rural and peri-urban areas often get neglected.
• Funding under AMRUT is primarily directed to cities, leaving rural and peri-urban areas struggling with waste management.

The Urban-Rural Divide in Governance

• Governance frameworks under the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments require strengthening to address urban and rural governance jointly.
• District Planning Committees (DPCs), which were meant to streamline governance, have become subordinated to district-level bureaucracy.
• Stronger DPCs and local bodies with more autonomy are necessary for effective governance in the rural-urban continuum.

Proposed Solutions

• Urban and rural planning must be integrated to address waste management in a continuum approach.
• Urban and rural local bodies should collaborate on waste management and infrastructure.
• Reassessing the allocation of finances and grants is critical for addressing both urban and rural needs effectively.

DECENTRALIZATION:

Decentralization refers to the process of distributing or transferring authority and responsibilities from a central government to local or regional levels of government. This system allows for greater autonomy at the grassroots level, enabling local governments to make decisions and implement policies according to the specific needs of their regions. It is aimed at improving governance, enhancing citizen participation, and making the government more responsive to local issues, particularly in reducing disparities between urban and rural areas.

Government Bodies Representing Decentralization

Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)

• Represent the decentralized governance system in rural areas.
• Established through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.
• PRIs are responsible for local development, including health, education, sanitation, and water supply in villages.

Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)

• Represent the decentralized governance system in urban areas.
• Established through the 74th Constitutional Amendment.
• ULBs include Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats, tasked with urban development, infrastructure, and public services like waste management.

District Planning Committees (DPCs)

• Formed under the Article 243ZD of the Constitution.
• Aim to consolidate plans from both rural (Panchayats) and urban (Municipalities) regions of a district.
• Facilitate integrated district-level planning to ensure balanced development and bridge the rural-urban divide.

State Finance Commissions (SFCs)

• Established to recommend the distribution of financial resources between the state and local governments.
• SFCs ensure equitable financial allocation to both urban and rural bodies, promoting balanced regional development.

National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and AMRUT

• Schemes like NREGA (now MGNREGA) provide employment in rural areas, decreasing migration to urban regions.
• AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) focuses on improving urban infrastructure but needs to include peri-urban and rural areas for a holistic approach.

Government Schemes for Integrated Urban and Rural Waste Management

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA):

• Urban and Rural Focus: This flagship program aims to achieve open defecation-free India and clean cities and villages.
• Integrated Approach: SBA emphasizes the importance of integrated waste management practices in both urban and rural areas.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY):

• Waste Management Component: PMAY includes provisions for waste management infrastructure in new housing projects, promoting integrated planning for both housing and waste management.

National Urban Renewal Mission (NURM):

• Waste Management Component: NURM has allocated funds for the development of waste management infrastructure in urban areas, including collection, transportation, and treatment facilities.

National Rural Drinking Water Program (NRDWP):

• Solid Waste Management: NRDWP has incorporated solid waste management components to ensure that drinking water sources are not contaminated by improper waste disposal.

National Rural Health Mission (NRHM):

• Sanitation and Hygiene: NRHM focuses on improving sanitation and hygiene in rural areas, including waste management practices.

Conclusion

As India becomes increasingly urbanized, it is crucial to shift away from the traditional rural-urban divide and adopt a unified governance and infrastructure approach. Strengthening local bodies, integrating planning processes, and ensuring adequate financial decentralization are key to realizing the rural-urban continuum, fostering inclusive development for all regions.

Multiple Choice Question

1. Which of the following statements about the Panchayati Raj system is/are correct?
2. The Panchayati Raj system was constitutionally mandated through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992.
3. The Gram Sabha is the primary body at the village level in the Panchayati Raj system.
4. The State Finance Commission is responsible for recommending financial distribution between the State and Panchayats.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

Answer: D

Explanation:

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 established the Panchayati Raj system.

The Gram Sabha is the fundamental body at the village level, consisting of all adult members.

The State Finance Commission recommends the distribution of financial resources between the State and Panchayats.

INDIA SENDS AID TO TYPHOON-HIT LAOS, MYANMAR, AND VIETNAM

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

India launched Operation Sadbhav to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) to Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam, which were severely affected by Typhoon Yagi. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to international solidarity and disaster support.

Financial Assistance: India committed $1 million in flood relief to Vietnam and $100,000 to Laos.

Key Details of the Aid Operation

Material Assistance:

• The Indian Navy’s INS Satpura departed with 10 tonnes of aid for Myanmar, including dry rations, clothing, and medicines.
• The Indian Air Force (IAF) dispatched 35 tonnes of aid to Vietnam, comprising water purification items, water containers, blankets, kitchen utensils, and solar lanterns.
• For Laos, 10 tonnes of supplies were airlifted, consisting of generators, hygiene kits, mosquito nets, blankets, and sleeping bags.

Logistical Support:

• IAF’s C-17 Globemaster aircraft was deployed to deliver aid swiftly and efficiently to the affected regions.

Tropical Cyclones:

A rotating system of clouds and thunderstorms that forms over tropical or subtropical waters with a closed low-level circulation.

• Energy Source: Warm ocean water and favourable atmospheric conditions like low wind shear and moisture.
• Formation Temperature: Requires sea surface temperatures of at least 26.5°C (79.7°F) for development.

Naming Conventions Based on Location

• Hurricanes: Occur in the North Atlantic, Northeast Pacific east of the dateline, and South Pacific east of 160E.Name derived from ‘Huracán,’ linked to Caribbean indigenous beliefs.
• Typhoons: Occur in the Northwest Pacific west of the dateline. Derived from the Chinese word ‘tai fung,’ meaning “big wind.”
• Cyclones: Occur in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean. Originates from the Greek word ‘kyklon,’ meaning “moving in a circle.”

Characteristics of Tropical Cyclones

• Low Pressure Centre: Tropical cyclones are characterized by a low-pressure center, creating a region of rising air. This low pressure is a key factor in the formation and intensification of these storms.
• Rotating Storm System: Tropical cyclones are rotating storm systems, typically counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. This rotation is due to the Earth’s rotation and the Coriolis effect.
• Strong Winds: Tropical cyclones are associated with strong winds, often reaching hurricane-force speeds (74 mph or 119 km/h) or higher. These winds can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure.
• Heavy Rainfall: Tropical cyclones often bring heavy rainfall, leading to flooding and other water-related hazards. The amount of rainfall can vary greatly depending on the storm’s intensity and track.

The Coriolis Effect

Rotation Direction:

• Northern Hemisphere: Rotates counterclockwise.
• Southern Hemisphere: Rotates clockwise.
• Effect: Caused by Earth’s rotation, crucial for cyclone formation and structure.

Conclusion

India’s timely intervention through Operation Sadbhav demonstrates its commitment to regional solidarity and disaster response. The coordinated efforts of the Indian Navy and Air Force ensure that essential supplies reach typhoon-affected communities in Southeast Asia.

Multiple Choice Question

1. Which of the following statements regarding tropical cyclones is/are correct?
2. Tropical cyclones derive their energy primarily from warm ocean waters.
3. In the Southern Hemisphere, tropical cyclones rotate counterclockwise due to the Coriolis effect.
4. The eye of a tropical cyclone is characterized by calm winds and clear skies.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

Answer: B

Explanation:

Tropical cyclones derive their energy from warm ocean waters.

In the Southern Hemisphere, tropical cyclones rotate clockwise (not counterclockwise).

The eye of a tropical cyclone is characterized by calm winds and clear skies.

A HUMAN TOUCH TO INDIA’S MINERAL ECOSYSTEM

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The article discusses India’s efforts to make mineral wealth more inclusive by ensuring local communities benefit from mining activities. The introduction of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) has played a key role in promoting community-centric development, improving livelihoods in mining districts, and enhancing socio-economic conditions.

Establishment of DMF

• Background: In 2015, the Indian government amended the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, mandating the formation of DMFs.
• Objective: To ensure local communities benefit from mining activities and receive a portion of the royalties paid by leaseholders.
• Corpus: DMFs have accumulated a fund of nearly ₹1 lakh crore through these royalties, enabling decentralised development in affected regions.

Transformation in Mining Districts

• DMFs have brought substantial changes by implementing developmental and welfare projects in mining areas.
• PMKKKY Scheme: Launched under Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana, focusing on community development.
• Scale of Impact: Over 3 lakh projects have been sanctioned across 645 districts in 23 states.
• Projects focus on minimizing mining impacts while promoting long-term sustainable livelihoods.

Innovation in DMF Programs

• Unique Initiatives: Every DMF customizes its strategies to address the specific needs of local communities.
• Inclusivity: Many DMFs include elected Gram Sabha representatives and ensure participatory governance.
• Innovative Practices: Some DMFs create dedicated engineering departments or appoint personnel from the Public Works Department to ensure proper project execution.

Technology and Digitisation

• National DMF Portal: Introduced to improve transparency and efficiency in DMF operations.
• Strategic Focus: DMFs align with the National Critical Minerals Mission to secure India’s position in the global mineral landscape.

Integrating DMF with National Goals

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): DMF funds are being aligned with national priorities and the SDGs.
• Use of Medicinal Herbs: DMFs support initiatives like plantation projects and the cultivation of medicinal plants.

Cooperative Federalism

• Alignment of Governance: DMFs embody cooperative federalism by coordinating between central and state governments.
• Converging Resources: Aligning local needs with national priorities maximizes the impact of DMFs in underdeveloped regions.

PRADHAN MANTRI KHANIJ KSHETRA KALYAN YOJANA (PMKKKY)

Launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Mines, the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) is aimed at the welfare of communities affected by mining operations. It uses the funds generated by District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) for developmental and welfare programs in mining-affected areas.Objectives of PMKKKY

• Developmental Projects: To implement various developmental and welfare programs that complement existing Central and State Government schemes.
• Mitigation of Adverse Impacts: To minimize and mitigate the adverse effects of mining on the environment, health, and socio-economic conditions in mining districts.
• Sustainable Livelihoods: To ensure the long-term sustainability of livelihoods for people affected by mining activities.
• Fund Utilisation under PMKKKY
• 60% of DMF funds are allocated to high-priority sectors.
• 40% of DMF funds are directed toward other priority sectors.
• High Priority Sectors
• Drinking Water Supply: Provision of safe and adequate drinking water in mining-affected areas.
• Healthcare: Strengthening medical services, reducing the health impacts of mining activities.
• Education: Improving educational facilities and resources for local communities.
• Women and Children Welfare: Focus on programs that benefit women and children.
• Sanitation: Promotion of sanitation facilities to enhance hygiene.
• Skill Development: Training programs aimed at increasing employability in local communities.
• Other Priority Sectors
• Physical Infrastructure: Development of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, etc.
• Environment Preservation: Initiatives aimed at reducing pollution and preserving natural resources.
• Energy and Watershed Development: Improving energy access and water resource management.
• Welfare of Disabled and Aged People: Special programs targeting vulnerable groups like the elderly and disabled.
• Irrigation: Enhancing agricultural productivity through better water management.

Identification of Affected Areas and People

• Directly Affected Areas: Regions directly impacted by mining operations, such as excavation, blasting, and waste disposal sites.
• Indirectly Affected Areas: Regions affected due to socio-economic and environmental consequences of mining activities.

Identification of Affected People

Directly Affected Persons:

• Those identified under Section 3(c) and Section 3(k) of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.
• Displaced Families: Families displaced by mining activities.
• Local Communities: People with legal or traditional rights over the mined land.

Conclusion

DMFs are driving inclusive growth in mining regions by empowering local communities and aligning resources with national development goals. They serve as a fine example of converging governance to transform historically neglected areas into hubs of sustainable development.

Multiple Choice Question

1. With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY), consider the following statements:
2. The primary objective of PMKKKY is to implement developmental and welfare projects in mining-affected areas that complement existing government schemes.
3. Under PMKKKY, 40% of the funds must be utilised for high-priority sectors such as drinking water supply, healthcare, and education.
4. Mining-affected people include only those who have legal rights over the land being mined.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

The objective of PMKKKY is to implement developmental projects in mining-affected areas that complement government schemes.

60% of the funds are utilised for high-priority sectors, not 40%.

Mining-affected people also include those with usufruct and traditional rights, not just those with legal rights.

LOW-& HIGH-SKILLED JOBS: GAP RISING AS MANUFACTURING STAGNATION CONTINUES

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Over the last two decades, India’s economic growth has been primarily driven by the services sector, especially in IT, banking, and finance. This shift has caused a decline in traditional manufacturing sectors like apparel and footwear, which typically employ a large number of low-skilled workers.

Manufacturing’s contribution to GDP remains stagnant at 14%, far below the target of 25%, widening the gap between high-skilled and low-skilled jobs.

Decline in Labour-Intensive Jobs:

• India’s focus on high-skill sectors has reduced low-skilled job creation.
• The World Bank highlighted that export-related jobs have decreased, with direct employment linked to exports dropping from 9.5% in 2012 to 6.5% in 2020.
• The dominance of services and high-skill manufacturing in India’s export portfolio has reduced opportunities for low-skilled workers.

India’s Missed Manufacturing Opportunity:

• Despite China’s shift away from low-skill manufacturing, India has not fully capitalized on this opportunity, losing market share to countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
• Government initiatives such as the PM MITRA Textile Parks and Industrial Smart Cities aim to revitalize manufacturing but have yet to yield significant results.

Rise of Global Capability Centres (GCCs):

• As manufacturing has slowed, India has become a key hub for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), particularly in IT and software development.
• India hosts 1,600 GCCs, providing essential services to multinational corporations.
• However, a hiring slowdown in major IT firms like TCS and Infosys indicates reduced job creation, even in the IT sector.

Declining Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs):

• India’s limited participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs) has restricted job creation.
• Despite rapid economic growth, India’s trade in goods and services has declined, limiting its engagement in international trade.
• High tariffs and complicated procedures have reduced India’s competitiveness in global markets.

Challenges:

Decline in Labour-Intensive Jobs:

• Focus on High-Skill Jobs: India’s economic growth has prioritized high-skill sectors, leading to fewer opportunities for low-skilled workers.
• World Bank Report: Export-related jobs decreased, with direct employment tied to exports falling from 9.5% (2012) to 6.5% (2020).
• Skewed Export Portfolio: High-skill manufacturing and services dominate India’s export portfolio, reducing space for low-skilled labour.

Missed Opportunity in Low-Skill Manufacturing:

• China’s Shift: As China moved away from low-skill manufacturing, India missed the opportunity to capture the market, allowing competitors like Bangladesh and Vietnam to take the lead.
• Government Initiatives: Programs like PM MITRA Textile Parks and Industrial Smart Cities are designed to revive low-skill manufacturing but are yet to produce significant outcomes.

Rise of Global Capability Centres (GCCs):

• IT and Software Development Hub: India has emerged as a global hub for GCCs, with 1,600 centres offering critical services to multinational companies.
• Hiring Slowdown: Despite the rise of GCCs, recent slowdowns in hiring by major IT firms like TCS and Infosys signal reduced job creation, even in high-skill sectors.

Declining Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs):

• Low GVC Engagement: India’s limited participation in GVCs restricts job creation, especially in manufacturing.
• Trade Decline: Despite economic growth, India’s trade in goods and services has dropped.
• Barriers to Competitiveness: High tariffs, complex regulations, and procedures undermine India’s global market competitiveness.

Conclusion:

India’s reliance on the services sector has curtailed job creation in low-skill industries. To overcome these challenges, India needs structural reforms aimed at boosting the manufacturing sector, enhancing participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs), and generating employment across all sectors.

INDIA FACES ‘FOOD VS CARS’ DILEMMA OVER PHOSPHORIC ACID

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Phosphoric acid, crucial for fertiliser production (e.g., Di-Ammonium Phosphate or DAP), is being diverted to make Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LFP) batteries for electric vehicles (EVs).

This diversion creates competition between the needs of food production and the fast-growing EV sector.

Analysis of the Issue

Impact on Agriculture and Fertilisers:

• High Import Dependency: India is heavily reliant on imports of DAP and its raw materials, such as phosphoric acid and rock phosphate, primarily from countries like China, Morocco, and Russia.
• Reduced DAP Availability: The increasing demand for LFP batteries, particularly in China, is decreasing the availability of phosphoric acid for fertilisers, potentially impacting India’s agriculture, especially during key planting seasons (rabi and kharif).

Implications of Global Market Dynamics:

• Shift to LFP Batteries: The popularity of LFP batteries, which replace scarce and costly minerals like cobalt with iron phosphate, is growing rapidly, especially in China, and is expected to spread globally. This is diverting phosphoric acid away from fertiliser production.
• Supply Shortages: India’s dependence on foreign sources of phosphoric acid makes it vulnerable to shifts in global markets and disruptions caused by geopolitical factors or changes in production priorities.

The Way Forward for India:

• Fertiliser Diversification: Indian farmers are moving towards complex fertilisers with lower phosphorous content but higher nutrient efficiency to reduce dependence on DAP. Additionally, government subsidies on DAP are straining fertiliser companies.
• Securing Raw Materials: India needs to invest in joint ventures and long-term buy-back agreements with phosphate-rich nations like Morocco to ensure a stable supply of phosphates for both agriculture and industrial use.

Conclusion:

The growing competition for phosphoric acid between agriculture (for fertilisers) and the EV industry (for batteries) presents a significant dilemma for India. India must focus on diversifying fertiliser usage and securing raw material supplies to mitigate the impact of global shifts and ensure food security.

AM, FM, AND SIGNAL MODULATION

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

Amplitude Modulation (AM) and Frequency Modulation (FM) are fundamental methods used to transmit signals, especially in radio communications. Modulation techniques allow efficient transmission of information over long distances while minimizing interference, and digital modulation offers enhanced resistance to noise compared to analog methods.

Everything You Need to Know About:

Amplitude Modulation (AM):

• Definition: In AM, the amplitude of a constant frequency carrier wave is varied to encode information, while the frequency remains constant.
• Process: The amplitude of the wave fluctuates in response to the incoming signal, with larger amplitudes representing louder sounds.
• Application: Commonly used in AM radio broadcasts.
• Drawback: AM is more susceptible to noise and interference, especially due to changes in amplitude caused by environmental factors.

Frequency Modulation (FM):

• Definition: In FM, information is encoded by varying the frequency of the carrier wave while maintaining a constant amplitude.
• Process: The frequency changes according to the amplitude of the input signal. Higher amplitude signals result in larger deviations in frequency.
• Application: FM is used in FM radio broadcasts, providing better sound quality and greater resistance to interference than AM.
• Advantage: FM has superior noise resistance since changes in frequency are less affected by electrical interference compared to amplitude.

Signal Modulation:

• Definition: Modulation is the process of encoding information onto a carrier wave (radio, sound, etc.) for transmission over long distances or through different media.
• Purpose: It enables efficient communication by modifying key characteristics of the carrier wave to suit different environments and transmission needs.

Types of Modulation: The main types include:

• AM (Amplitude Modulation): Varies the amplitude to encode data.
• FM (Frequency Modulation): Varies the frequency.
• PM (Phase Modulation): Varies the phase of the wave.

Detailed Types of Modulation:

Analog vs. Digital Modulation:

• Analog Modulation: AM and FM are analog techniques that continuously vary the carrier signal to represent information (voice, music, etc.).
• Digital Modulation: PM and other digital modulation techniques encode data as discrete values, improving resistance to noise and interference. Examples include Phase Shift Keying (PSK) and Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM).

Advantages of Modulation:

• Efficient Transmission: Modulation allows signals to travel long distances with minimal distortion.
• Reduced Interference: Multiple signals can share the same frequency channel without interference by using different modulation techniques.
• Enhanced Signal Quality: Modulation helps minimize noise, static, and other disturbances, especially in digital communication, leading to clearer, more reliable transmissions.

Conclusion:

AM and FM are foundational modulation techniques for transmitting audio and other signals. FM offers better sound quality and resistance to noise, while AM is simpler but more susceptible to interference. Signal modulation, in general, plays a vital role in modern communication systems, enabling efficient, long-distance transmission of both analog and digital signals.

THE DEATH FROM NIPAH VIRUS HAS BEEN CONFIRMED IN MALAPPURAM

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

A 24-year-old man from Malappuram district, Kerala, has died from Nipah virus, confirmed by the National Institute of Virology, Pune.

He was initially admitted with symptoms of hepatitis but later developed signs of encephalitis. Authorities promptly implemented Nipah containment measures to prevent further spread.

Nipah Virus

Nipah Virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans.

• Family & Genus: It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, Henipavirus genus, and is closely related to the Hendra virus (HeV).
• First Outbreaks: Nipah Virus was first detected in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998-1999.
• Affected Animals: Initially found in domestic pigs, it has also been detected in other animals such as dogs, cats, goats, horses, and sheep.

Transmission of Nipah Virus

• Primary Hosts: The virus is primarily spread through fruit bats (also known as flying foxes) of the Pteropus genus, which act as the natural reservoir.
• Bat Excretions: The virus is present in the bats’ urine, and potentially in their feces, saliva, and birthing fluids.

Human Transmission:

• Direct Contact: Through contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids.
• Contaminated Food: The virus can spread to humans by consuming fruit or food items contaminated by the saliva or urine of infected bats.
• Person-to-Person: It can also spread through direct contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids.

Prevention and Treatment

• No Vaccines Available: There are currently no vaccines for humans or animals to protect against Nipah Virus.
• Treatment: Intensive supportive care is the main treatment approach for those infected.
• Ribavirin, an antiviral, may be used to reduce mortality, although its effectiveness is still under study.

Prevention Measures:

• Avoiding Direct Contact: Minimizing exposure to bats and infected animals.
• Hygiene Practices: Washing fruits thoroughly and avoiding consumption of food items possibly contaminated by bats.
• Protective Equipment: Healthcare workers should use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling suspected or confirmed cases.

DPIIT TO LAUNCH BHASKAR: A REVOLUTIONARY PLATFORM FOR INDIA’S STARTUP ECOSYSTEM

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: PIB

The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR), introduced by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), is set to centralize and enhance collaboration within India’s startup ecosystem.

BHASKAR aims to support India’s ambition to lead globally in innovation and entrepreneurship by providing a comprehensive digital platform for startups, investors, and mentors.

BHASKAR:

• Launched By: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Objective: Centralize and streamline collaboration within India’s startup ecosystem
• Target Stakeholders: Startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and government entities
• Significance: Designed to foster a more connected, efficient, and collaborative startup environment in India

Key Features:

• Networking and Collaboration: Facilitates seamless interaction across different sectors
• Centralized Access: Offers startups immediate access to essential tools and knowledge
• Personalized Identification: Provides unique BHASKAR IDs for each participant
• Enhanced Discoverability: Features powerful search functions to find resources and opportunities
• Impact: Contributes to India’s goal of becoming a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship