20-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

HARAPPAN CIVILISATION: ENIGMA REMAINS EVEN AFTER 100 YEARS OF EXPLORATION

TOPIC: (GS1) ANCIENT HISTORY: THE HINDU

The Harappan civilisation, also known as the Indus Valley civilisation, was first announced by John Marshall in 1924 after the excavation of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro.

A Bronze Age civilisation, it existed from 3200 BC to 1500 BC, flourishing in what is now India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Despite a century of research, many aspects of the civilisation remain enigmatic.

Key Discoveries and Timeline

• Excavation of Harappa (1921-22): Led by Daya Ram Sahni, discovered seals, pottery, and beads.
• Excavation of Mohenjo-daro (1922): Led by Rakhal Das Banerji, unearthed similar artefacts, leading to the conclusion of a unified civilisation.

Technological and Cultural Achievements

• Urban Planning: Well-planned cities with drainage systems, reservoirs, granaries, and fortification walls.
• Craftsmanship: Use of bronze, copper, and terracotta to create artefacts, seals, pottery, and beads.
• Metallurgy: Fabrication of copper and bronze tools, indicating technological prowess.
• Script and Seals: The Harappans developed a script (yet undeciphered) and seals with intricate carvings of animals and symbols.
• Weights and Measures: Standardised systems using cubic weights made of chert.

Geographic Spread and Major Sites

• Geographical Reach: The civilisation extended across 1.5 million sq.km, with major sites in India (Rakhigarhi, Dholavira) and Pakistan (Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Ganweriwala).
• Southern Extent: The village of Daimabad in Maharashtra marks its southernmost reach.
• Key Rivers: The civilisation thrived along the Indus and the now-dried Saraswati rivers.

International Connections and Trade

• Maritime Trade: Established contacts with Mesopotamia and West Asia from 3000 BC through maritime trade.

Scholars’ Views on Significance

• Historical Gap: The discovery pushed back the history of settled life in South Asia by 3,000 years.
• Cultural Roots: Scholars like R.S. Bisht traced Harappan roots to Mehrgarh, dating back to 7000 BC.
• Indus Script: Despite attempts by scholars like Iravatham Mahadevan, the script remains undeciphered.

Features of the Indus Valley Civilization Society

Urban Nature: IVC society was highly urbanized and divided into three sections:

• Elite Class: Lived in the citadel area (western part of town).
• Middle-Class: Composed of merchants and traders.
• Lower-Class: Laborers residing in the lower towns.

Division of Labor: Society was diversified and stratified, with distinct roles:

• Scholars, artisans, traders, warriors, businessmen.

Matriarchal Society:

• Considered matriarchal due to the worship of the Mother Goddess, evidenced by the discovery of terracotta female figurines.

Dressing Styles:

• Men: Wore garments wrapped around the lower body, with one end over the left shoulder and under the right arm.
• Garments: Made from cotton, silk, wool.
• Presence of woven cloth at Mohenjodaro indicates knowledge of spinning and weaving.

        

Techno-Cultural Aspects of the Civilization

Metal Usage:

• Inhabitants used copper and bronze but were unaware of iron.
• Copper was sourced from the Khetri copper mines in Rajasthan.
• Tin likely came from Afghanistan.

Peaceful Nature: Harappans were peace-loving, with limited arms and weapons.

Textile Industry:

• Objects with textile impressions found.
• Spinning and weaving were advanced crafts.

Brick-Laying:

• Existence of brick structures suggests a class of skilled masons.

Crafts:

• Boat-making, bead-making, and seal-making were common crafts.
• Bead-making shops found at Chanhudaro and Lothal.

Seals:

• Made primarily from steatite (soft stone), and sometimes gold, ivory, chert, agate.
• Used for trade purposes.

Pottery:

• Redware pottery with black designs was characteristic.
• Items like jars, plates, bowls, pots of different sizes were made.

• Cultural Artifacts:
  • Bronze Dancing Girl and Steatite Bearded Man from Mohenjodaro represent IVC’s cultural finesse.
  • Steatite Bearded Man wore an embroidered cloak and had a meditative posture.

NOTE : REFER INTRODUCTION TO INDIAN ART NCERT FOR MORE INFORMATION

Conclusion

The Harappan civilisation, a significant technological and cultural powerhouse, continues to intrigue scholars a century after its discovery. Despite substantial research, questions about its decline, social structure, and Society still remains

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding the citadel and seals of the Harappan Civilization:

1. The citadel was located on an elevated platform, generally to the west of the city.
2. Harappan seals were made primarily of steatite and typically depicted animals with inscriptions.
3. The Harappan script has not yet been deciphered and is believed to be written from right to left.

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 citadel was indeed elevated and housed important structures. Harappan seals were made of steatite, and the script is still undeciphered, with evidence suggesting it was written from right to left.

HOW KERALA REDUCED MORTALITY FROM AMOEBIC MENINGOENCEPHALITIS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare, often fatal infection of the brain caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly called the “brain-eating amoeba.” In 2023, Kerala faced an outbreak of this infection, but the state’s prompt action significantly reduced the mortality rate.

Outbreak and Initial Response

• PAM primarily affects healthy individuals, especially children and young adults, due to exposure to freshwater bodies.
• Kerala reported 19 cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis, with the majority being children aged 5–15.
• Despite the high global fatality rate (97%), Kerala managed to save 14 out of 19 patients, reducing the mortality rate to 26%.

Medical Strategy and Treatment

• Early Identification: Timely diagnosis and immediate treatment were critical.
• Use of U.S. CDC Protocol: Kerala adopted a treatment protocol based on the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.
• Introduction of Miltefosine: Along with traditional drugs like Amphotericin B, the state introduced Miltefosine, an anti-parasitic drug, into treatment, improving outcomes.
• Case Clustering: A notable case cluster was found in Thiruvananthapuram, where risky behaviours, like inhaling water mixed with substances, led to multiple cases.

Preventive Measures and Public Awareness

• Avoidance of Head-first Diving: People were advised not to dive into water bodies.
• Nasal Precautions: Nasal plugs were recommended for swimmers, and those with past head injuries were urged to avoid stagnant water.
• Water Hygiene: Households were encouraged to maintain clean overhead water tanks to prevent contamination.

• Public Health Monitoring: Clinicians were advised to closely monitor cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for the presence of amoeba in suspected cases.

Naegleria fowleri

Naegleria fowleri, or “brain-eating amoeba,” is a single-celled organism found in warm freshwater environments like lakes, hot springs, and poorly maintained pools. It was first discovered in Australia in 1965. Only this species of Naegleria infects humans.

• Infection Process: The amoeba enters through the nose when swimming or diving in contaminated water, then travels to the brain, causing Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM). It cannot spread via water vapours or aerosols.
• Non-Communicable: The infection does not spread from person to person and mainly occurs in warm freshwater during hot months.

Symptoms of PAM

• Symptoms appear 1–12 days after infection and include headaches, nausea, fever, stiff neck, seizures, hallucinations, and coma, resembling meningitis.

Survival Chances

• The fatality rate is 97%, with rapid brain tissue destruction. Early diagnosis and treatment offer limited survival chances.

Treatment Options

• Treatment typically includes a combination of drugs such as amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone.

Prevention

• Avoid warm freshwater bodies, use nose protection while swimming, maintain hygiene, and ensure clean water for nasal cleaning.

Conclusion

Kerala’s response to the amoebic meningoencephalitis outbreak demonstrated how early detection, medical intervention, and public awareness can significantly reduce fatalities in rare but dangerous infections. The state’s experience offers valuable insights for global public health efforts against PAM.

Multiple Choice Question

1. With reference to Amoeba, consider the following statements:

1. Amoeba is a multicellular organism found primarily in marine environments.
2. It reproduces through a process known as binary fission.
3. Amoeba lacks a defined shape and changes its form constantly due to the presence of pseudopodia.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: B

Explanation:

Amoeba is a unicellular organism and is found in a variety of environments, including freshwater, soil, and sometimes marine environments.

Amoeba reproduces by binary fission, where the cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Amoeba does not have a fixed shape due to its ability to form pseudopodia (temporary extensions of its cell membrane) which help in movement and feeding.

MONSOON WITHDRAWAL

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from parts of northwest India starting September 23.

Monsoon Withdrawal refers to the process where the southwest monsoon winds begin to retreat from the Indian subcontinent. This withdrawal starts in northwest India in early September and moves progressively southward.

Geographical Impact: Withdrawal from regions in northwest India, including parts of Uttarakhand, Delhi, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh.

Climatic Conditions:

• Reduced moisture.
• Decrease in cloud cover and rainfall.
• Establishment of anti-cyclonic circulation over the region.

Indian Monsoon

• The monsoon refers to the seasonal reversal of wind direction that brings the majority of rainfall to India. It is critical for agriculture and water resources in the region. Here’s an easy-to-understand breakdown of the phenomenon:

Mechanism of Indian Monsoon

• Summer Heating: During summer, intense heating over the Thar Desert and adjacent northern parts of India leads to the formation of a low-pressure zone. This happens mainly between April and May.
• Formation of Low-Pressure Area: The heat causes a low-pressure system over the Indian subcontinent. The surrounding seas remain cooler, creating a temperature gradient.
• Moist Air from Oceans: Winds from the high-pressure Indian Ocean move towards the low-pressure area over land, bringing moisture-laden air. The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) shifts northward, helping monsoon rains reach India by late May or early June.
• Two Branches of the Monsoon: Arabian Sea Branch: Hits the western coast of India (Kerala) around the first week of June.
• Bay of Bengal Branch: Reaches the northeastern states, bringing rains to Assam and the Ganga plains.

Factors Affecting the Indian Monsoon

• Differential Heating: Land heats faster than the sea, creating a temperature difference.
• Coriolis Force: Earth’s rotation deflects winds, making them blow from southwest to northeast.
• Mascarene High: A high-pressure system in the southern Indian Ocean drives monsoon winds towards India.
• Indian Summer: High temperatures over the subcontinent create a low-pressure system, pulling in moist winds from the surrounding seas.
• Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD): Positive IOD leads to warmer seas near the western Indian Ocean, which can strengthen monsoon rains.

Retreating Monsoon (Northeast Monsoon or Post-Monsoon Season)

The retreating monsoon occurs when the southwest monsoon winds begin to withdraw from the Indian subcontinent, typically starting in early October. As the southwest monsoon retreats, the northeast monsoon winds begin to blow toward the landmass, lasting through the winter months of October to November.

Key Features of the Retreating Monsoon:

• Subside of Monsoon Rains: Monsoon rains gradually decrease, and winds start to shift direction. This season is marked by clear skies and lower humidity levels.
• Rainfall in Southern India: The retreating monsoon is crucial for rainfall in the southern peninsula, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and coastal Andhra Pradesh, where it serves as the primary source of rain.
• Cyclones and Depressions: Cyclonic activity and depressions forming in the Bay of Bengal during this season can cause heavy rainfall, often leading to flooding and landslides in affected areas.
• Onset of Winter: The retreat of the monsoon signals the start of winter in India, with a gradual drop in temperatures across the country.
• Impact on Agriculture: This season is critical for harvesting crops and preparing for the winter season. Agriculture depends heavily on the retreating monsoon for post-monsoon rains.

Annual Rainfall During Retreating and Southwest Monsoons

• Uneven Rainfall Distribution: The retreating monsoon brings uneven rainfall across India. Some regions experience substantial rainfall, while others receive minimal amounts.
• Southwest Monsoon’s Contribution: The southwest monsoon is responsible for 70% of India’s annual rainfall. Its withdrawal can result in extreme weather conditions, including floods, drought-like situations, and lightning.

Areas of Rainfall:

• High Rainfall Areas: Regions in southern India, especially Tamil Nadu, experience significant rainfall during the retreating monsoon.
• Low Rainfall Areas: Some northern and central parts of India may receive little to no rainfall during this season, leading to drought-like conditions.

Conclusion:

The IMD’s forecast signals the end of the monsoon season in northwest India, with implications for agriculture, water availability, and weather patterns in the coming weeks.

Multiple Choice Question

1. With reference to the factors influencing the Indian Monsoon, consider the following statements:
2. The differential heating and cooling of land and water is a primary cause of the monsoon in India.
3. The presence of the Himalayas plays a significant role in the monsoon mechanism by preventing cold winds from Central Asia from reaching India.
4. The position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) does not influence the onset of the monsoon.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

• The differential heating and cooling of land and water creates pressure differences, which drive the monsoon winds.
• The Himalayas act as a barrier, blocking the cold winds from Central Asia, which helps in the development of warm low-pressure areas in northern India.
• The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a critical factor influencing the onset of the monsoon, as its northward movement helps in attracting moist southwest monsoon winds toward the Indian subcontinent.

ESCALATING TENSIONS IN WEST ASIA: HEZBOLLAH BLAMES ISRAEL FOR ATTACKS AMID FEARS OF WIDER CONFLICT

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNAIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Recent explosions in Lebanon and Syria killed 37 and injured over 3,500. Hezbollah blames Israel for the attacks, which Israel has neither confirmed nor denied.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah calls the attacks a “declaration of war” against Lebanon.

Background of the Gaza Conflict:

• Tensions follow the Gaza conflict that began after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7.
• Israeli retaliation has been massive, causing displacement on both sides along the northern border.

Signals of Escalation from Israel:

• Israeli Defense Minister indicated possible military action to protect displaced Israelis.
• Israel has diverted military resources north and targeted Hezbollah’s leadership and communication networks.

Hezbollah and Iran’s Possible Response:

• Hezbollah is expected to retaliate, but the timing remains uncertain.
• Iran may respond as Hezbollah’s primary backer, possibly involving allies like Hamas and the Houthis, but with a cautious approach.

Impact on India

• Energy Security: Two-thirds of India’s crude oil comes from West Asia, making disruptions critical.
• Safety of Indian Nationals: Approximately 9 million Indians in the region could be at risk during escalations.
• Diplomatic Balancing: India maintains a balanced stance between Israel and Palestinians; larger conflicts could complicate this. Calls for de-escalation may need reinforcement.

How Escalation Can Be Avoided on the Global Stage

Diplomatic Engagement:

• Continued efforts by the U.S. and other actors to de-escalate tensions are crucial.
• Facilitate dialogue between Israel and Hezbollah and address Gaza conflict issues.
• A ceasefire in Gaza could help reduce hostilities in Lebanon.

Regional Agreements:

• Establish agreements to address territorial disputes and security concerns to mitigate conflict risk.

Monitoring and Mediation:

• Increase monitoring by international bodies like the UN.
• Mediate discussions to prevent misunderstandings and military escalations.

Conclusion

The possibility of a wider war looms, posing serious geopolitical implications for West Asia and India’s interests.

THE TRUE COST OF HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED INFECTIONS

TOPIC: (GS3) SOCIETY: THE HINDU

The rise of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) in India raises concerns about patient safety and healthcare quality. Recent incidents highlight ethical dilemmas for patients and families, particularly regarding financial burdens and accountability.

There is an urgent need for improved infection control and transparent reporting practices.

Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs):

• HAIs are infections acquired by patients during their stay in healthcare facilities, typically occurring 48 hours or more after admission.
• Sources of HAIs include surgical procedures, medical devices, and the hospital environment.

Concerns with HAIs:

• Increased Morbidity and Mortality: HAIs lead to significant complications, longer hospital stays, and increased mortality rates.
• Financial Burden: Patients incur substantial medical expenses for prolonged treatment and rehabilitation, leading to economic strain.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Issues arise regarding hospital accountability for infection prevention and the ethics of billing patients for HAIs.
• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): HAIs often involve drug-resistant organisms, complicating treatment and raising public health concerns.

Comparison: Developed Countries vs. India:

• In developed countries, stringent regulations and accountability measures significantly reduce HAIs, with mandatory reporting and non-reimbursement policies incentivizing prevention.
• India faces varied healthcare standards and inadequate HAI reporting, resulting in higher infection rates and financial burdens, emphasizing the need for improved infection control measures.

Way Forward

• Mandatory Disclosure: Require the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) and accredited hospitals to publicly disclose HAI rates to foster transparency and accountability.
• Benchmarking Standards: Establish Indian benchmarks for HAIs based on local data to help hospitals improve infection control practices.
• Insurance Collaboration: Encourage insurance companies to allocate funds towards enhancing hospital infection control rather than just covering the costs of HAIs.
• Patient Education: Raise awareness among patients and families about HAIs, promoting an understanding of the complexities involved in hospital care.
• No Charge Policy: Implement policies in accredited hospitals to not charge patients for the treatment of HAIs, ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

Conclusion:

The rising incidence of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) in India poses significant challenges to patient safety, healthcare quality, and ethical practices within the medical system.

The financial burden on patients and the potential for increased morbidity and mortality necessitate urgent action.

By implementing mandatory disclosure of HAI rates, establishing benchmarks, fostering insurance collaboration, and enhancing patient education, India can move towards a more transparent and accountable healthcare system.

FATF LAUDS INDIA’S EFFORTS TO TACKLE ILLICIT FINANCE

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNAIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

India has been placed in the highest rating category, “regular follow-up,” by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), recognizing its strong efforts in combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

This acknowledgment underscores India’s robust compliance with international financial security standards.

Observations by FATF

• AML/CFT Framework: India has established a comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CFT) framework that effectively aligns with FATF Recommendations.
• Financial Intelligence Usage: Indian authorities efficiently utilize financial intelligence, both domestically and internationally, to combat illicit financial flows.
• Financial Inclusion: Significant progress in financial inclusion has more than doubled the number of bank account holders, promoting financial transparency and enhancing AML/CFT efforts.
• International Cooperation: India has achieved positive results in international cooperation, particularly in asset recovery and the application of targeted financial sanctions for proliferation financing.
• Risk Understanding: There is a thorough understanding of money laundering, terrorism, and proliferation financing risks among Indian authorities, particularly within the financial sector, although further coordination across stakeholders is necessary.
• Complex Financial Investigations: India has demonstrated proficiency in conducting intricate financial investigations related to terrorist financing but needs to focus on concluding prosecutions and sanctioning terrorist financiers.
• Outreach to Non-Profit Sector: Strengthening outreach to non-profit organizations is essential to mitigate the risk of terrorist financing in accordance with a risk-based approach.
• Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs): Financial institutions have improved measures to monitor PEPs; however, the coverage of domestic PEPs and supervision of the non-financial sector require enhancements.
• Sector-Specific Improvements: India is encouraged to impose stricter restrictions on cash transactions in the precious metals and stones sector due to its significance.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF)

• Established: 1989, by G7 countries to combat money laundering, later expanded to include terrorist financing and other illicit financial activities.
• Headquarters: Paris, France.
• Objective: To set global standards for Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CFT) and to monitor compliance.
• Members: 40 members, including countries and regional organizations like the EU.
• FATF Recommendations: Comprises 40 recommendations that provide a framework for countries to enhance financial systems against money laundering and terror financing.
• Black & Grey Lists: FATF issues blacklists and grey lists for countries with insufficient AML/CFT measures.

MANIPUR ENFORCES BAN ON HUNTING AS AMUR FALCONS ARRIVE FOR MIGRATION

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

Tamenglong district in Manipur is preparing for the arrival of Amur falcons, a migratory bird species that roost in the area from October to November. These birds migrate from breeding grounds in Northern China, Eastern Mongolia, and Russia to their wintering grounds in South Africa.

About Amur Falcon:

• The Amur falcon is a small raptor belonging to the falcon family.
• Locally referred to as Akhuipuina, the bird primarily arrives in Manipur and Nagaland.
• Breeding occurs in southeastern Siberia and Northern China, with the birds migrating long distances in large flocks to winter in Southern and East Africa.
• The one-way journey through India covers approximately 20,000 km, completed twice a year.

Conservation Efforts:

• The Amur falcon is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, listed in Schedule IV.
• Hunting or possessing the birds or their meat is punishable by up to three years of imprisonment or a fine of up to ₹25,000.
• In 2018, the forest department initiated a conservation program by radio-tagging the birds to study their migratory routes.
• According to the IUCN, the Amur falcon is listed as Least Concern.
• Threats include illegal trapping, killing during migration, and habitat loss due to agricultural practices and land reclamation.

Ban on Hunting and Poaching

• The district administration has imposed an immediate ban on hunting, capturing, killing, and selling Amur falcons, locally known as Kahuaipuina.
• This ban aligns with the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 (sections 50 and 51), making violations punishable offenses.

Conservation Efforts in Tamenglong

• Conservation initiatives in Tamenglong have been ongoing since 2016, including the tagging of two falcons with radio transmitters to track their migration.
• The district hosts an annual “Amur Falcon Festival” and plans to tag two more birds to enhance studies on migration.

Conclusion:

The enforcement of a hunting ban on Amur falcons in Tamenglong district is a significant step toward protecting this migratory species during its critical stopover period. By aligning local conservation efforts with national legislation, the district demonstrates a commitment to wildlife protection and ecological sustainability.

AMIT SHAH LAUNCHES ‘WHITE REVOLUTION 2.0’ TO BOOST DAIRY SECTOR AND EMPOWER WOMEN FARMERS

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

Union Home recently launched ‘White Revolution 2.0’, a transformative initiative aimed at revitalizing the dairy sector in India.

This program focuses on enhancing milk production, improving dairy infrastructure, and strengthening cooperative networks.

The plan includes the formation of two lakh new Multipurpose Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies (MPACS), alongside dairy and fishery cooperatives, and establishes a standard operating procedure for promoting collaboration among cooperatives.

Objectives of White Revolution 2.0 include:

• Empowering Women Farmers: The initiative aims to enhance the role of women in the dairy sector, promoting self-reliance and enabling them to become active contributors to the economy.
• Enhancing Local Milk Production: The program seeks to increase the volume of milk produced locally, ensuring food security and reducing dependency on imports.
• Strengthening Dairy Infrastructure: Investments will be made in infrastructure development, including milk processing plants and cold storage facilities to improve supply chain efficiency.
• Boosting Dairy Exports: By improving quality and quantity, the initiative aims to enhance India’s position in the global dairy market, potentially increasing export revenues.

Women Empowerment and Malnutrition Fight

• program not only focuses on economic empowerment but also addresses malnutrition.
• Increased dairy output is expected to provide affordable and nutritious food, significantly benefiting rural communities, particularly children and women.

Budgetary Support Assured

• To alleviate concerns regarding financial backing, the government would provide full budgetary support for White Revolution 2.0. This initiative is deemed a high-priority area, particularly for the Department of Animal Husbandry.

Additional Dimensions

• Current Dairy Statistics: India is the world’s largest milk producer, contributing approximately 22% of global milk production. In the fiscal year 2020-21, India’s milk production reached around 209 million metric tons.
• Cooperative Model Success: The success of the dairy cooperative model, exemplified by the Amul model, has already shown how cooperative societies can uplift farmers’ livelihoods, with Amul reporting annual revenues exceeding ₹52,000 crores.
• Job Creation Potential: The dairy sector holds the potential to create additional jobs in rural areas, particularly for women, who represent a significant portion of the workforce in dairy farming.
• Nutritional Impact: With rising malnutrition rates, especially in rural areas, increasing dairy production can provide essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and vitamins, necessary for healthy growth and development.

Operation Flood: White Revolution 1.0

The success of the Green Revolution enabled India to launch Operation Flood.

Launch Details

• Year: Launched in 1970.
• Implementing Body: Introduced by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to create a national milk grid.

Aim

• To increase milk productivity and ensure competitive market prices for milk.

Objectives

• Increase Milk Production: Aim for “a flood of milk” in the country.
• Improve Rural Income: Enhance the livelihoods of rural farmers.
• Provide Affordable Milk: Ensure that consumers have access to affordable milk.

Key Figure

• Dr. Verghese Kurian: Known as the Father of the White Revolution, he played a pivotal role in the success of Operation Flood and founded Amul, India’s largest milk producer.

Phases of Operation FloodPhase I (1970–1980):

• Financed by the European Economic Community (EEC) through the World Food Program (WFP)
• Focused on setting up milk cooperatives across the country.

Phase II (1981–1985):· Targeted dairy development in states like Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

Phase III (1985–1996):· Emphasized veterinary care and better breeding practices to enhance milk quality and productivity.

Outcomes

• Global Leader: Transformed India from a dairy-deficient nation to the world’s largest milk producer.
• Role of Women: Women dairy farmers played a crucial role in this transformation, significantly contributing to the dairy sector.
• Recognition: A World Bank report stated that Operation Flood can be viewed as a 20-year experiment confirming the vision of rural development.

Multipurpose Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies (MPACS)

MPACS are cooperative societies formed at the grassroots level to serve multiple agricultural needs of farmers. To empower farmers through collective action, improving their access to resources, credit, and markets.

Key Features

• Member Ownership: Each member has a stake in the cooperative, promoting democratic decision-making.
• Growth Statistics: As of recent reports, India has over 100,000 MPACS registered, serving millions of farmers across the country.
• Focus on Rural Development: Aims to enhance the livelihoods of rural farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Achievements

• Economic Upliftment: MPACS have significantly improved the economic conditions of small and marginal farmers by ensuring fair prices for their produce.
• Credit Access: Enhanced access to credit has enabled farmers to invest in modern agricultural practices, increasing productivity.
• Employment Generation: MPACS contribute to rural employment through various cooperative activities, creating jobs for local communities.
• Women’s Participation: Many MPACS focus on empowering women farmers, promoting their participation in agriculture and decision-making processes.

Conclusion

The launch of ‘White Revolution 2.0’ represents a significant step towards bolstering India’s dairy sector while empowering women and addressing malnutrition. By focusing on cooperative structures, enhancing local production, and ensuring robust budgetary support, the initiative aims to create a sustainable and self-reliant dairy ecosystem.