2023 07 25

Table of Contents:

GS Paper 3:

Managing microplastic pollution in India
Manual for Disaster Management Plan (DMP)

GS Paper 4:

BBC Presenter Scandal: A case study

Content for Mains Enrichment

Barbie: Impact on Society

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Initiatives launched under PMFBY
Sixth Person (Geneva patient) cured of HIV
WHO new guidelines for HIV
Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS)
Unifying Quantum theory and General Relativity
Ludwigia peruviana

Mapping

Godda (Jharkhand)
Vietnam

Managing microplastic pollution in India

GS Paper 3

Syllabus: Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation

Source: DTE

Context: Microplastic pollution – a significant environmental problem, has not attracted much attention in India.

Microplastics:

These are tiny plastic particles (less than 5 mm long) that result from both commercial product development (microbeads in personal care products, synthetic fibres from clothing, etc) and the breakdown of larger plastics.
They are found everywhere, from terrestrial ecosystems to freshwater rivers, lakes, ponds, estuaries, seas and oceans, even in Antarctica.

Threats posed by microplastics:

Microplastics are not only toxic for the ecosystems but also act as vectors to transport other toxic chemicals in the aquatic ecosystems.
As a pollutant, microplastics are a significant environmental problem and pose risks to marine life, terrestrial organisms and human health.
As a result, many scientists are using a new historical epoch – Plasticene, due to the global distribution and abundance of microplastics.

Factors contributing to microplastic pollution in India:

Rapid industrialisation, urbanisation and population growth have led to increased plastic consumption and waste generation.
Inadequate waste management systems, including limited recycling infrastructure and improper disposal practices. For example,
- Municipal areas in India generate 133,760 metric tonnes per day (TPD) of municipal solid waste (MSW).
- Of which only 91,152 TPD waste is collected and 25,884 TPD treated.
- Of which only 9,250 TPD plastic waste is recycled.
The vast coastline and numerous rivers make it susceptible to the transport of microplastics from inland areas to the marine environment.

Challenges India is facing:

Most populous country in the world with a population of 1.42 billion → Demand for water is rising.
Access to water plays a critical role in all 17 SDGs either directly or indirectly.
Misuse, poor management and contamination of freshwater systems have amplified the water stress.
Thus, achieving SDGs by 2030 is a mammoth task amid microplastic pollution.

Some SDGs that have direct and intricate relations with water:

SDG 2: Zero hunger
SDG 3: Good health and well-being
SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation
SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy
SDG 14: Life below water
SDG 15: Life on land

Steps taken in India:

The Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules 2021 prohibited single-use plastic items by the end of 2022.
The permissible thickness of plastic carry bags was increased from 50 to 75 microns and then 120 microns from December 31, 2022.
Several nonprofits and civil society organisations (Bengaluru-based Saahas) are actively working to tackle the issue through research, advocacy and community engagement.

Way ahead:

Focus on the key targets of SDG 6:
- Achieving universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
- Improve water quality by reducing pollution and increasing water treatment.
- Increase water-use efficiency in all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater.
- Implement integrated water resources management to support the sustainable use of water resources.
- Protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes.
India should focus on improving waste management infrastructure, promoting recycling and responsible consumption and raising awareness among the public and industries.
It is essential to implement stricter regulations, enhance monitoring and research on microplastics and promote sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.

Conclusion: It is important to note that managing microplastics is a complex task that requires a comprehensive approach involving government agencies, industries, communities and individuals working together to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment.

Insta Links:

Microplastic Pollution

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, 25 July CA, GS 3, Microplastic Pollution, SDGs, The Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules 2021, Today's Article, Today’s article

Manual for Disaster Management Plan (DMP)

GS Paper 3

Syllabus: Disaster Management

Source: PIB

Context: The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti has released the Manual for Disaster Management Plan (DMP).

About the Manual for DMP:

Developed by: The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, based on the Advisory issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), under the Disaster Management Act 2005.
Objective:
- To ensure safety, uninterrupted supply and minimum loss of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) assets and services involving stakeholders at the national, state, district, and village levels.
- Enhance WASH resilience to reduce disaster vulnerability.
- Establish a robust environment, fund and coordination mechanism to achieve the desired goals.
- Develop a plan which caters to disaster preparedness, response, recovery, reconstruction, and mitigation.
The plan includes Gender-based vulnerabilities, and issues concerning SC/ST, elderly, children and people with disabilities.
The Plan aligns with The two-flagship programmes on WASH implemented by the Department namely the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G).

In case of disaster, 3 kinds of assessment need to be conducted:

Before the disaster: A Hazard-Vulnerability-Capacity mapping to guide the preparedness activities most needed,
During Response: A Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA) which can be completed in a day and point out the immediate needs of the affected population,
During Recovery and Reconstruction: A detailed Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) which –
- Highlights the long-term needs of the community and
- Helps the administration “build back better” and “update” to mitigate against future disasters.

Other Indian efforts towards reducing the risk of disasters:

G20 Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Working Group: India has established the first G20 Working Group on DRR to elevate DRR as a priority for G20 through its presidency.
Expanding disaster early warning: During Cyclone Biparjoy, effective systems for end-to-end early warning and action helped achieve zero deaths from the event in India.
UN Secretary General’s Early Warnings for All Initiative: India is working to realise the goal of the initiative, which seeks to create universal coverage for everyone by the end of 2027.
Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CRDI): India launched CRDI with the UN in 2019, to spur policy development and capacity support for disaster resilient infrastructure, especially in developing countries.

Best practices – Disaster response in Odisha:

Sneha Abhiyaan: Under this, self-help groups (SHGs) in the village are entrusted with managing cyclone shelters, including the distribution of cooked food.
Mamta Gruhas: These safe spaces provide comprehensive care for women, children and other vulnerable sections of society.
Training and capacity building of frontline workers (ASHAs, SHGs): SDRF provides training in first aid, shelter management, rescue operations, government regulations concerning trafficking and compensation norms.

Way ahead:

To build resilience within affected communities, it is essential to focus on long-term rehabilitation.
The leadership of women collectives plays a vital role in this process.

Conclusion: As the world is at the midpoint of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, a renewed sense of urgency and a people-centred approach can significantly reduce disaster losses by 2030.

Insta Links:

India can guide G20’s disaster management initiatives

Mains Links:

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) involves proactively identifying and addressing the underlying risks and vulnerabilities that can lead to disasters. Analyse in the context of India’s adoption of the National Disaster Management Plan.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, 25 July CA, G20 Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Working Group, GS 3, Manual for Disaster Management Plan (DMP), Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, Today's Article, Today’s article, WASH

BBC Presenter Scandal: A case study

GS Paper 4

Syllabus: Ethics in public and private life, Media ethics

Source: TH

The BBC is currently embroiled in a scandal involving its star news presenter, Huw Edwards, who is accused of paying a teenager for sexually explicit photos since 2020.

The BBC suspended Edwards after the allegations emerged and has been investigating the matter. The London Metropolitan Police concluded their assessment and found no indication of a criminal offence

The scandal has sparked scrutiny of the BBC’s handling of complaints and has led to calls for accountability from the top management.

Ethical issues involved in the case are:

Consent and Exploitation: The alleged exchange of sexually explicit photos with a teenager raises serious ethical concerns regarding consent.
Privacy and Confidentiality: The scandal involves the breach of privacy of individuals, including the accused presenter and the teenager.
Handling of Complaints: The BBC’s handling of the initial complaint against the presenter in May raises ethical concerns.
Abuse of Influence: As a high-profile news presenter, the accused presenter holds a position of influence and power. Any abuse of that power, especially for personal gain, raises ethical questions about the responsibility that comes with such a position.
Transparency and Accountability: Ethical concerns arise regarding the transparency of the BBC’s investigation process and its accountability in addressing the allegations promptly and effectively.
Impact on Reputation: The scandal could have significant repercussions on the reputation of the accused presenter, the BBC, and other individuals mentioned in the media coverage.
Protection of Minors: The involvement of a teenager in the alleged exchange of explicit photos raises concerns about the protection of minors and the potential harm they may face from such incidents.

Addressing these ethical issues requires several steps:

Thorough Investigation: The BBC must continue its investigation into the allegations, considering all available evidence, and cooperating with relevant authorities.
Support for Victims: The teenager involved should be provided with necessary support and counselling to cope with the potential harm caused by the incident.
Accountability and Transparency: The BBC should demonstrate transparency in its investigative process and be accountable for any mistakes in handling complaints.
Ethical Training: Regular ethics training for all employees, especially those in positions of influence, can help prevent similar incidents and promote responsible behaviour.
Restorative Justice: If the allegations are proven, restorative justice measures may be considered to address the harm caused to the victim and foster a sense of accountability.
Rebuilding Trust: The BBC must take steps to rebuild trust with its audience by demonstrating a commitment to ethical standards and values.
Strengthening Policies: Reviewing and improving internal policies related to handling complaints, privacy protection, and the responsible use of influence can help prevent similar scandals in the future.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023

Barbie: Impact on Society

Content for Mains Enrichment

Source: IE

Barbie, the iconic doll introduced in 1959, has faced various controversies since its inception.


Issue	Examples	Implications
Sexualization	Early Barbie’s appearance and clothing	Perceived reinforcement of unrealistic beauty standards and objectification of women.
“Barbie Baby-Sits” with weight loss advice	Potentially promoting unhealthy body image and harmful dieting habits in young children.
Feminist Backlash	Criticisms of super-thin figure	Impacting young girls’ perception of body image and self-esteem, perpetuating unrealistic standards.
“Teen Talk Barbie” phrases like	Reinforcement of gender stereotypes and negative attitudes towards math and academic achievement.
“Math class is tough!”
Cultural Concerns	“Oreo Fun Barbie” recall	Offending and perpetuating stereotypes about racial and ethnic communities esp. Black African race
Barbie banned in Iran and Saudi Arabia	Clash of cultural values and resistance to Western influence.
Materialism	Extensive range of fashion accessories	Fostering consumerism and materialistic values among young children.

Inclusivity	Lack of diversity in early Barbie models	Limited representation and exclusion of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
“Share a Smile Becky” wheelchair issues	Insensitivity and lack of accessibility for people with disabilities.

Despite controversies, Barbie has remained a popular and influential figure in popular culture, inspiring fashion shows, songs, and art dedicated to her persona. Also, the parent company has tried to rectify and diversify the product range to address the above issues.

Use: The examples can be used in Society/Sociology and ethics papers.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, Today's Article

Initiatives launched under PMFBY

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB%20dedicated%20to%20the%20farmers.)

Context: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare launched Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) portal, AIDE mobile app, and Yield Estimation System (YES-TECH) Manual with the aim to provide crucial weather-related information to farmers.

This has been launched under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)

Initiatives launched:


Initiative	Description
WINDS (Weather Information Network Data Systems) portal	· WINDS will hosts, manages, and process hyper-local weather data collected by Automatic Weather Stations and Rain Gauges/Rain watch towers at Taluk/Block and Gram Panchayat levels. · It will provide crucial weather-related information and data to farmers. · It will enhance risk assessment and decision-making in crop insurance, agriculture advisories, and disaster mitigation.
AIDE (App for Intermediary Enrolment) mobile app	· A mobile application was introduced to facilitate farmers’ access to various government schemes and benefits. Through the app, farmers can easily enrol and avail themselves of the different agricultural schemes. · It will ensure a seamless and transparent process, making crop insurance more accessible and convenient for farmers
YES-TECH (Technology-based Yield Estimation System) Manual	A manual aimed at implementing a technology-based system for yield estimation in agriculture. The initiative leverages technology to accurately estimate crop yields, helping farmers make informed decisions and plan effectively.

Other such initiatives available:


Project/Initiative	Description
Forecasting Agricultural output using Space, Agro-meteorology and Land based observations (FASAL) project	· FASAL project utilizes space technology, agro-meteorology, and land-based observations for accurate agricultural output forecasting. · It helps farmers make informed decisions based on reliable crop yield predictions.
National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGPA)	It enables farmers to access vital agricultural data and services through digital platforms.
National Agricultural Drought Assessment and Monitoring System (NADAMS)	It helps in identifying regions facing drought conditions and facilitates appropriate drought management strategies to support farmers.
ISRO’s Geo-platform, Bhuvan	It offers data on plantation, pest surveillance, and weather conditions. It also promotes the use of Kisan Drones for crop assessment and facilitates the digitization of land records to improve agricultural practices.

Significance:

These initiatives aim to bridge the gap in weather information availability and empower farmers with accurate and timely data for effective planning and decision-making in the agriculture sector.

About PMFBY:

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a crop insurance scheme launched in 2016 to provide financial support and risk coverage to farmers against crop losses due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, AIDE, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), Today's Article, Winds, YES-TECH

Sixth Person (Geneva patient) cured of HIV

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE

Context: A sixth person, known as the Geneva patient, has likely been cured of HIV after receiving a stem cell transplant for leukaemia. His virus level remained undetectable 20 months after discontinuing antiretroviral therapy.

However, his cells are still susceptible to HIV, leaving the possibility of the virus returning.

What is a stem cell transplant?

A stem cell transplant (SCT) is a medical procedure in which healthy stem cells are infused into a patient to replace damaged or diseased stem cells. Stem cells are special human cells that can replicate and differentiate into various types of cells in the body. The transplant aims to restore the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, boost the immune system, and treat certain diseases like leukaemia and lymphoma.

Can SCT be used for treating all HIV patients?

Stem cell transplant is unlikely to become a routine treatment for HIV due to challenges in finding matching donors and the mutation being mainly found in Caucasians. Stem cell transplantation also comes with risks, such as the risk of patient rejection and the virus finding other ways to infect cells.

Why Caucasians are able to recover while other races are not?

The recovery of HIV through stem cell transplantation has been more commonly observed in Caucasians because a specific gene mutation known as CCR5 delta 32 is more prevalent in this racial group. People who inherit two copies of this mutation (one from each parent) are naturally resistant to certain strains of HIV due to the lack of receptors on their immune cells that the virus uses to enter and infect the cells.

Effective antiretroviral therapy remains the primary treatment for HIV, suppressing the virus and allowing CD4 immune cell count to bounce back. Although it doesn’t remove the virus completely, it reduces viral particles to undetectable levels and prevents transmission to others.

Other patients who have achieved HIV remission through stem cell transplantation include the Berlin patient, the London patient, and the New York patient. Stem cell therapy using umbilical cord and adult stem cells may make transplants possible in people from other races as well.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, Sixth Person (Geneva patient) cured of HIV, Stem Cell Transplant, Today's Article

WHO new guidelines for HIV

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: DTE

Context: The World Health Organization (WHO) released new guidance for HIV at the International AIDS Society Conference on HIV Science.

Key points of the guideline:

It emphasizes the critical role of HIV viral suppression and undetectable virus levels in enhancing individual health and preventing transmission of the virus.
Countries integrate Mpox (monkeypox) detection, prevention and care with existing and innovative HIV and sexually transmitted infection prevention and control programmes.
People living with HIV who achieve an undetectable level of the virus through consistent use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) do not transmit HIV to their sexual partner(s) and are at low risk of vertically transmitting HIV to their children.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, Today's Article, WHO new guidelines for HIV

Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS)

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: India is taking its first step towards introducing Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS), a research model used in other countries for vaccine and treatment development.

What is CHIS?

It is a research model used to intentionally expose healthy volunteers to pathogens in a controlled environment to study diseases and develop vaccines and treatments for diseases like malaria, typhoid, and dengue. The goal is to gain insights into disease pathogenesis and find efficient and cost-effective ways to prevent and treat infectious diseases.

The issues with CHIS (Controlled Human Infection Studies) include:

Ethical Sensitivity: CHIS involves intentionally exposing healthy volunteers to pathogens, raising concerns about deliberate harm and protecting participants’ rights.
Disproportionate Payment: Concerns about inducements and potential financial incentives for volunteers to participate in risky studies.
Third-Party Risk: The risk of transmission of the pathogen to individuals outside the study, leading to potential community spread.
Research with Vulnerable Participants: Ensuring that vulnerable individuals, such as pregnant women or children, are not exposed to undue risks during CHIS.
Technical and Clinical Challenges: Ensuring proper scientific procedures and safety protocols are followed in the controlled environment.
Legal Contentions: Addressing potential legal issues related to participant consent and liability.
Socio-Cultural Context: Considering unique socio-cultural factors that may impact the acceptability and feasibility of CHIS in different communities.

The Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) Bioethics Unit has introduced a consensus policy statement, open for public comment, to address the ethical concerns associated with CHIS. The aim is to conduct research in India while protecting human participants and ensuring ethical principles are upheld.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, CHIS, Controlled Human Infection Studies, ICMR, Today's Article

Unifying Quantum theory and General Relativity

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB

How are scientists trying to unify the two theories?

Scientists are researching how atoms falling into a black hole emit radiation and its quantum behaviour, resembling Hawking radiation. Their calculations on this radiation, known as “horizon brightened acceleration radiation entropy,” reveal insights into the Einstein principle of equivalence.

This work aims to unify quantum theory and general relativity into a single theory called “quantum gravity,” enhancing our understanding of the universe from tiny particles to immense galaxies.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, general relativity, quantum theory, Today's Article

Ludwigia peruviana

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: The invasive weed Ludwigia peruviana is threatening elephant habitats and foraging areas in Valparai, Tamil Nadu.

About Ludwigia Peruviana:

The Ludwigia peruviana, an aquatic plant with pale yellowish flowers, is causing significant challenges in various swampy areas worldwide. Originally introduced as an ornamental plant for its tiny yellow flowers in Tamil Nadu, it now grows rapidly, particularly in wetlands, due to the pre-monsoon temperature and monsoon rains. This fast growth is disrupting the balance of perennial foraging grounds, hindering the growth of grass and native plants that elephants and other animals such as Gaur, rely on for food.

Origin: It is popularly called primrose willow, it is a native of Central and South America.
It is among the 22 priority invasive plants in Tamil Nadu.
It has infested the majority of the hill station’s swamps, locally known as vayals .

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, Ludwigia peruviana, Today's Article

Godda (Jharkhand)

Mapping

Source: IE

Bangladesh will get power supply from the 1600 MW Ultra Super-Critical Thermal Power Plant (USCTPP) at Godda, Jharkhand. This project is India’s first commissioned transnational power project, where 100% of the generated power is supplied to another nation.

The plant’s operations include 100% flue gas desulphurization, selective catalytic reconverter, and zero water discharge for minimizing emissions and ensuring environment-friendly operations.

Godda is mostly famous for the Rajmahal coalfield in Lalmatia. It is known for its hills and small forests. The mine present here is an integral part of ECL coalfields and is among the biggest in the whole of Asia.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, bangladesh, Godda, Jharkhand, Today's Article

Vietnam

Mapping

Source: IE

India has handed over its indigenously-built missile corvette, INS Kirpan, to Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) in a gesture of growing defence ties and strategic partnership between India and Vietnam. This move symbolizes India’s position as the “Preferred Security Partner” in the Indian Ocean Region.

Vietnam is involved in a maritime dispute with China. There has been rising Chinese influence in the South China Sea and territorial disputes with Vietnam, making Vietnam an important ally for India in the region.

Vietnam is located on the eastern margin of the Indochinese peninsula. It borders the Gulf of Tonkin, the Gulf of Thailand, and the Pacific Ocean, along with China, Laos, and Cambodia.

July 25, 2023 /25 July 2023, Today's Article