1. Caste Enumeration in India’s Census: Objectives, Implications & Challenges – Polity
Why in News?
- The Union Cabinet has approved the inclusion of caste-related questions in the upcoming national Census—for the first time since 1931, beyond Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
- The move is politically and socially significant, especially amidst rising demands for data on Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
Historical Background
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1881 | First modern Census of India; included caste data |
| 1931 | Last Census to publish caste data for all categories |
| 1941 | Caste data collected but not published (World War II) |
| Post-1947 | Only SC/ST enumeration continued as per constitutional mandate |
| 2011 | Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) conducted but caste data was not released officially due to quality concerns |
Objectives of Including Caste in Census
| Objective | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Evidence-Based Policy Making | Updated caste data enables targeted welfare schemes |
| Reservation Reassessment | Empirical basis to revise or expand reservation quotas for OBCs |
| Social Justice and Equity | Identify intra-group disparities and neglected communities |
| Academic Research | Reliable data for sociological and economic studies |
| Political Representation | Supports demand for proportionate political participation of OBCs and sub-castes |
Legal and Constitutional Context
- Article 340: Empowers the President to appoint commissions for investigating the conditions of backward classes.
- Mandated SC/ST Enumeration: Census Act supports data collection only for SCs/STs, while OBC data collection lacks a specific statutory framework.
- Past attempts like the SECC 2011 faced scrutiny over data integrity and duplication.
Political and Electoral Significance
- State-level caste surveys in Bihar, Odisha, Karnataka have influenced local reservation policies.
- Political parties use caste data to demand quota increases (e.g., caste census as a basis for 50%+ reservation).
- Timing overlaps with upcoming Bihar elections, indicating strategic political calculus.
Challenges in Implementation
| Challenge | Details |
|---|---|
| Caste Classification | India has over 5,000 castes, many with regional overlaps |
| Overlap & Redundancy | States have different OBC lists (Central vs State) → inconsistency |
| Verification Issues | Self-declared caste data may lead to misreporting or inflation |
| Political Sensitivity | Exclusion or underreporting may trigger protests and litigation |
| Delayed Census Schedule | Already postponed due to COVID-19, causing administrative backlog |
Potential Implications
Positive Outcomes
- Improves inclusivity in policy planning.
- May lead to more granular welfare targeting.
- Empowers socially marginalized subgroups with data-based representation.
Risks
- Risk of social fragmentation or caste-based polarization.
- Could intensify identity politics and political competition over quotas.
- Possible misuse or politicization of data.
Key Concepts and Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Census | A decennial exercise under the Census Act, 1948 for population enumeration |
| SECC | Socio-Economic and Caste Census, conducted in 2011 but caste data unreleased |
| OBC (Other Backward Classes) | Socially and educationally backward groups entitled to reservation |
| Caste Enumeration | Collection of data about caste affiliation beyond just SCs/STs |
Summary
- For the first time since 1931, the Union Government will include caste enumeration in the next Census, covering data beyond just SCs/STs.
- The objective is to ensure data-driven governance, enable revised reservation frameworks, and promote social justice.
- However, challenges like complex classification, data disputes, and political sensitivities may complicate implementation.
- While the move promises inclusive policymaking, it demands careful execution to prevent social and political fallout.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Consider the following statements:
- The Census of India is conducted under the Census Act, 1948.
- Caste enumeration beyond SCs and STs has been regularly carried out in every Census since Independence.
- The Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) was officially released by the Union Government in 2011.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a. 1 only
b. 1 and 2 only
c. 1 and 3 only
d. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: a. 1 only
Statement 2 is incorrect — caste enumeration beyond SC/ST was discontinued after 1931.
Statement 3 is incorrect — caste data from SECC was not released officially due to data quality concerns.
Mains :
1. The inclusion of caste in the national Census has the potential to reshape India’s social and political landscape.
“Critically evaluate the rationale, opportunities, and challenges associated with caste-based data collection.“
(GS2 – Polity / Social Justice)
2. Discuss how updated caste data can help address the concerns of underrepresentation and inequity in India’s affirmative action policies.
“Also, highlight the need for safeguards to prevent data misuse.“
3. Do you think a national caste census strengthens or undermines social cohesion in a diverse country like India? Give arguments with examples.
(GS2 – Polity / Governance / Ethics in Public Administration)
2. ICAR Develops Genome-Edited Rice Varieties – Science and Technology
Why in News?
- The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed two genome-edited rice varieties:
- DRR Dhan 100 Kamala
- A second variety based on MTU 1010
- These breakthroughs aim to increase yield, accelerate harvest cycles, and enhance food security in India.
What is Genome Editing?
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Genome Editing | A precise method to modify specific DNA sequences in the genome of an organism |
| Tools Used | Techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, ZFN, TALENs |
| Difference from GMOs | Unlike GMOs, genome editing does not necessarily involve foreign DNA; changes can be made using the organism’s existing genetic code |
| Regulatory Status in India | Category 1 genome-edited crops (with no foreign genes) are exempted from GMO regulations (per 2022 guidelines by DBT) |
New Varieties Developed by ICAR
| Variety | Key Features |
|---|---|
| DRR Dhan 100 Kamala | Based on Samba Mahsuri; matures 15–20 days earlier; yields up to 8 tonnes/ha (25% higher yield) |
| MTU 1010-based Variant | Enhanced productivity, stress tolerance, and shorter growing cycle (details awaited) |
Impact:
- Improved cropping intensity
- Reduced resource use (water, fertilizer)
- Greater resilience to climate variability
Role of ICAR in Agricultural Innovation
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | July 16, 1929 (as Imperial Council of Agricultural Research) |
| Affiliation | Autonomous under Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture |
| Headquarters | New Delhi |
| Network | 113 research institutes + 74 agricultural universities |
| Contribution | Food grain production rose by 6.21× and fruits/vegetables by 11.53× since 1950s |
Significance of ICAR’s Genome-Edited Rice
| Area | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Food Security | Higher yield = increased national grain stock |
| Climate Adaptation | Faster harvest cycles reduce climate exposure risk |
| Farmer Welfare | Shorter cycles → lower input cost and more income |
| Scientific Leadership | Positions India as a leader in precision agriculture and biotech |
Challenges Ahead
| Challenge | Concern |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Clarity | Although exempted, many states still lack implementation guidelines |
| Public Perception | Misconceptions equating genome editing with GMOs |
| Seed Accessibility | Ensuring affordable access to genome-edited seeds for small farmers |
| Biodiversity | Need to assess long-term ecological impacts |
Key Concepts Explained
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Genome Editing | Direct, targeted modification of DNA within an organism’s genome |
| CRISPR-Cas9 | Gene-editing tool that allows for precise changes to DNA |
| Samba Mahsuri | Popular rice variety known for fine grain quality and disease resistance |
| Category 1 Genome-Edited Plants | Edits made without inserting foreign DNA; considered low-risk under Indian rules |
Summary
- ICAR has developed two genome-edited rice varieties, including DRR Dhan 100 Kamala, offering early harvest and 25% higher yield.
- These are part of a broader effort to boost food security, reduce environmental stress, and promote climate-resilient agriculture.
- Genome editing is distinct from GMOs, with recent Indian regulations supporting its safe and faster adoption.
- ICAR’s research reinforces India’s role in agricultural innovation, aligning with SDGs and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals in food systems.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. With reference to genome editing, consider the following statements:
- It always involves inserting foreign DNA into the organism’s genome.
- CRISPR-Cas9 is one of the most widely used genome-editing techniques.
- Genome-edited crops are currently regulated under the same rules as GMOs in India.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
a. 1 only
b. 2 only
c. 2 and 3 only
d. 1 and 3 only
Answer: b. 2 only
Statement 1 is incorrect — genome editing may not involve foreign DNA.
Statement 3 is incorrect — Category 1 genome-edited crops are exempt from GMO regulations (as per 2022 policy).
2. DRR Dhan 100 Kamala, recently developed by ICAR, is significant because:
a. It is India’s first hybrid rice variety.
b. It is resistant to all forms of bacterial blight.
c. It is a genome-edited rice variety with early maturation and high yield.
d. It is a GM variety designed to withstand floods.
Answer: c. It is a genome-edited rice variety with early maturation and high yield.
Mains :
1. Discuss the role of genome editing in ensuring food and nutritional security in India. Highlight the recent achievements of ICAR in this field.
(GS3 – Science & Technology / Food Security)
2. Compare genome-edited crops with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in terms of scientific process, regulatory frameworks, and societal acceptance in India.
(GS3 – Agriculture / Biotechnology)
3. Evaluate the potential of agricultural biotechnology in achieving sustainable agriculture. What are the key regulatory and ethical considerations?
(GS3 – Science and Technology / Ethics in Innovation)
3. Evaluation of Innovation in Public-Funded R&D Organisations in India – Economy
Why in News?
- A report titled “Evaluation of Innovation Excellence Indicators of Public Funded R&D Organisations” was released by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, in collaboration with CII and the Centre for Technology, Innovation, and Economic Research (CTIER).
- The report evaluates the innovation capacity and contributions of 244 public-funded R&D institutions across India.
Objectives of the Study
| Objective | Details |
|---|---|
| Assess innovation performance | Evaluate the real-world impact of publicly funded research |
| Align R&D with national missions | Ensure focus on critical technologies, SDGs, and Viksit Bharat 2047 |
| Bridge academia-industry gap | Understand if R&D is more theoretical or application-driven |
| Improve institutional accountability | Develop measurable indicators of innovation excellence |
Scope and Methodology
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Institutions Covered | 244 public-funded R&D labs from various ministries (excluding sensitive fields like defence and atomic energy) |
| Exclusions | Academic universities and strategic institutions |
| Methodology | Online survey with 62 parameters, including self-declared focus (e.g., science-driven or application-driven research) |
| Indicators | Included patents, industry engagement, startup incubation, manpower trends, and sustainability alignment |
Key Findings of the Report
| Finding | Implication |
|---|---|
| Low Industry Linkages | Only 25% of labs supported startups; limited collaboration with the private sector |
| Manpower Constraints | Decline in permanent staff, limiting institutional memory and continuity |
| Innovation Disconnect | R&D outputs often not aligned with national priorities or market needs |
| Lack of IP Commercialization | Low success in licensing patents or monetizing innovations |
Recommendations of the Report
| Area | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Policy Reorientation | Align R&D mandates with “Viksit Bharat 2047”, national missions (Digital India, Make in India) |
| Startup Ecosystem | Strengthen incubation, funding, and mentorship for deep-tech startups |
| Human Capital | Recruit and retain skilled permanent researchers; promote interdisciplinary teams |
| Monitoring & Accountability | Develop innovation KPIs for all labs |
| Industry-Academia Linkage | Create platforms for joint R&D with industry, especially in critical tech like AI, biotech, clean energy |
Significance for India’s Development
| Dimension | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Self-Reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) | Indigenous innovation in critical areas like defence, healthcare, agriculture |
| Sustainable Development | Alignment with SDGs, including clean energy, education, and climate action |
| Economic Growth | Enhancing technology transfer, MSME support, and startup incubation |
| Scientific Leadership | Elevating India’s position in global innovation indices |
Key Concepts Explained
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Viksit Bharat 2047 | Government vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047 |
| Incubation Support | Facilities and mentorship provided to startups to scale innovation |
| Technology Transfer | Commercialization of research from labs to industry or public applications |
| Public-Funded R&D | Research institutions primarily supported by government grants and funds |
Summary
- A new evaluation report assesses the innovation performance of 244 public-funded R&D organisations, excluding defence and atomic energy.
- Findings highlight low industry engagement, weak startup support, and declining manpower.
- The report recommends aligning research mandates with Viksit Bharat 2047, critical technologies, and SDG targets.
- Calls for reform in funding, monitoring, and industry partnerships to drive scientific impact and economic outcomes.
- Strengthening public R&D is essential to achieving self-reliance, inclusive growth, and global scientific leadership.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Consider the following statements about Public-Funded R&D in India:
- All public-funded R&D institutions fall under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
- The Centre for Technology, Innovation, and Economic Research (CTIER) is involved in evaluating innovation performance.
- The report on innovation in public-funded R&D organisations was released by NITI Aayog.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
a. 2 only
b. 1 and 3 only
c. 2 and 3 only
d. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: a. 2 only
Statement 1 is incorrect – R&D institutions fall under multiple ministries (e.g., Agriculture, Health, Atomic Energy).
Statement 3 is incorrect – The report was released by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, not NITI Aayog.
Mains :
1. Evaluate the challenges faced by public-funded R&D institutions in India. How can these institutions be reoriented to support India’s goals of innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development?
(GS3 – Economy / Science and Technology)
2. Public R&D institutions in India often underperform in technology transfer and commercialization.
“Discuss the causes and suggest measures to enhance their impact in industry and national development”.
3. “Public investment in research must translate into public benefit.”
“In light of this, critically assess the role of innovation indicators in measuring R&D performance in India”.
4.Insider Trading in India – Economy
Why in News?
- The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has alleged insider trading by a director of multiple group companies.
- The director is accused of sharing price-sensitive information, violating SEBI’s 2015 Insider Trading Regulations.
Definition of Insider Trading
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Insider Trading | The act of buying or selling securities based on unpublished, material information not available to the general public |
| Material Information | Any non-public data likely to influence an investor’s decision (e.g., earnings, mergers, acquisitions, dividend announcements) |
| Insider | As per SEBI, any person who: |
| – is a connected person (e.g., directors, employees) | |
| – has access to Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI) |
Legal and Regulatory Framework in India
| Regulation | Key Provisions |
|---|---|
| SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015 |
- Defines insider, UPSI, connected persons
- Prohibits trading on UPSI
- Mandates disclosures and trading windows |
| Companies Act, 2013 (Section 195) | Prohibited insider trading but was later repealed to consolidate powers under SEBI |
| SEBI’s Powers | Can:
– Impose penalties
– Restrict capital market access
– Order disgorgement of profits
– Initiate criminal proceedings in serious cases |
Examples of Material Information (UPSI)
- Quarterly financial results
- Major acquisitions or mergers
- Change in key managerial personnel
- Buyback or issue of securities
- Litigation outcomes affecting the company
Recent Developments and SEBI’s Role
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| SEBI’s Allegation | Director allegedly shared UPSI with external individuals for potential trading gains |
| SEBI’s Broader Role | |
| – Regulates India’s capital markets | |
| – Protects investor interests | |
| – Prevents fraudulent trading practices | |
| – Monitors corporate disclosures and transparency |
Why Preventing Insider Trading Matters
| Stakeholder | Impact |
|---|---|
| Investors | Ensures level playing field in stock markets |
| Companies | Builds corporate credibility and transparency |
| Markets | Maintains market integrity and investor confidence |
| Economy | Encourages capital formation and equitable access to financial instruments |
Penalties for Insider Trading
Under SEBI Act, 1992:
- Monetary penalties up to ₹25 crore or 3 times the profits, whichever is higher
- Criminal liability may include imprisonment up to 10 years
Challenges in Curbing Insider Trading
| Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Tracking Information Leaks | UPSI can be shared informally or verbally |
| Complex Networks | Insiders often use relatives or indirect associates |
| Data Privacy vs Surveillance | Need to balance monitoring vs individual rights |
| Proof Burden | Requires strong evidence of intentional misuse of information |
Key Concepts Explained
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| UPSI | Unpublished Price Sensitive Information – confidential financial or strategic data that can affect share prices |
| Connected Person | Anyone with a professional or contractual relationship granting access to UPSI (directors, employees, auditors) |
| Trading Window | Specific time period when insiders can legally trade, usually closed before major announcements |
Summary
- Insider trading is the illegal use of non-public, material information to gain an unfair advantage in the stock market.
- SEBI regulates it through the 2015 Insider Trading Regulations, defining insiders, UPSI, and penalties.
- Recent allegations against a corporate director underscore the importance of compliance, market integrity, and transparency.
- Preventing insider trading builds investor confidence and strengthens India’s financial system.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Consider the following statements regarding Insider Trading in India:
- SEBI is the primary regulator for insider trading laws in India.
- Insider trading is allowed during the trading window periods only if material information is disclosed.
- The term “Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI)” includes publicly available data.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a. 1 only
b. 1 and 2 only
c. 1 and 3 only
d. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: b. 1 and 2 only
Statement 3 is incorrect – UPSI refers specifically to non-public information.
2. Under which of the following acts does SEBI have the authority to penalize insider trading?
a. Companies Act, 2013
b. SEBI Act, 1992
c. RBI Act, 1934
d. Indian Penal Code
Answer: b. SEBI Act, 1992
Mains :
1. Insider trading undermines investor confidence and transparency in the financial markets.
Discuss the effectiveness of SEBI’s regulatory mechanisms in preventing insider trading in India.
2. What constitutes Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI)? How can SEBI enhance surveillance and enforcement to tackle insider trading more effectively?
3. Evaluate the challenges in proving insider trading cases in India. Suggest reforms to strengthen accountability in corporate governance.
5. India–Angola Diplomatic Relations – InternationaI Relations
Why in News?
- President of Angola, João Lourenço, was welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhavan during his first State visit to India, marking the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Angola.
- The visit reflects India’s growing focus on strengthening bilateral relations with African nations, especially in areas of energy, trade, and sustainable development.
Background: India–Angola Relations
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | Diplomatic relations since 1985 |
| Angola’s Significance | Major oil exporter and member of OPEC |
| India’s Role | Key development partner; major importer of crude oil from Angola |
Geographical and Strategic Profile of Angola
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Southwestern Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean |
| Capital | Luanda — economic and maritime hub |
| Neighbours | Namibia, Zambia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo |
| Key Rivers | Cuango River, Cuanza River — important for hydropower and transport |
| Highest Peak | Mount Moco, located in Huambo Province |
Key Areas of Bilateral Cooperation
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Energy | India imports crude oil from Angola; opportunities in renewable energy collaboration |
| Capacity Building | Angola benefits from ITEC training programs and Pan-Africa e-Network |
| Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare | Indian pharma exports are critical for Angola’s healthcare system |
| Infrastructure and Education | Indian companies active in telecom, power, and education projects |
| Multilateral Engagement | Cooperation through India–Africa Forum Summit, G77, and Non-Aligned Movement |
Strategic Importance of Angola to India
- Energy Security: Angola is one of India’s top oil suppliers from Africa.
- Maritime Connectivity: Luanda’s Atlantic access aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.
- Geopolitical Presence in Africa: Strengthening ties with Angola supports India’s Africa outreach policy.
- Diversification of Trade: Angola offers opportunities for Indian businesses in agriculture, mining, and infrastructure.
Challenges in the Relationship
| Challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| Political Stability | Angola has faced past civil unrest and political transitions. |
| Language Barrier | Portuguese is the official language; creates communication gaps in bilateral engagements. |
| Logistical and Connectivity Gaps | Lack of direct air or shipping links hampers trade volume. |
| Limited Awareness | Angola receives less policy and media attention in India compared to other African nations. |
Way Forward
| Recommendation | Justification |
|---|---|
| High-Level Exchanges | Encourage regular diplomatic visits and joint commissions |
| Digital and Health Diplomacy | Expand telemedicine, digital education, and vaccine cooperation |
| Strategic Investments | Focus on infrastructure, green energy, and agribusiness |
| People-to-People Ties | Scholarships, diaspora support, and cultural exchanges to boost goodwill |
Summary
- India and Angola are celebrating 40 years of diplomatic relations, with renewed focus on strategic and economic cooperation.
- Angola is a crucial partner in Africa, rich in oil resources and holding a strategic coastline along the Atlantic.
- India has been a trusted development partner, supporting Angola in energy, health, education, and capacity building.
- The State visit underscores India’s broader Africa policy and vision of South–South cooperation.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following countries shares a land border with Angola?
- Namibia
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Zambia
- Mozambique
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a. 1 and 4 only
b. 1, 2 and 3 only
c. 2, 3 and 4 only
d. All four
Answer: b. 1, 2 and 3 only
2. Mount Moco, the highest peak of which African country, was recently in the news during a diplomatic visit to India?
a. Kenya
b. Angola
c. Nigeria
d. Ethiopia
Answer: b. Angola
Mains :
1. India’s engagement with African nations has gained momentum in recent years. Discuss the significance of Angola in India’s Africa policy, particularly in the context of energy security and development cooperation.
(GS2 – International Relations)
2. Evaluate the challenges and opportunities in strengthening bilateral ties between India and Angola. What steps can be taken to diversify this partnership beyond energy trade?
3. India’s outreach to Africa reflects its aspirations for South–South cooperation. In this context, assess the role of high-level diplomatic visits in shaping India–Africa relations.
6. Rise in Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs) – Health
Why in News?
- Diseases preventable through vaccination — including measles, meningitis, yellow fever — are witnessing a global resurgence.
- This is due to missed immunizations, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
- As per WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi, 14.5 million children missed routine vaccines in 2023, up from previous years.
Key Global Findings
| Indicator | Status |
|---|---|
| Countries Affected | 108 low- and lower-middle-income countries reviewed |
| Disruption Level | ~50% reported moderate to severe disruption in immunization programs |
| Surveillance Gaps | Over 50% reported issues in disease monitoring and response |
| Funding Shortfalls | Post-COVID, global donor fatigue and economic strain affected vaccination investments |
Causes of the Resurgence
| Cause | Impact |
|---|---|
| Missed Routine Immunizations | Millions of children have incomplete protection against VPDs |
| Misinformation | Vaccine hesitancy due to social media-driven false narratives |
| Population Growth | Stretched health infrastructure, especially in urban slums and rural regions |
| Humanitarian Crises | Conflict zones and displacement hinder vaccine access |
| Pandemic Disruptions | COVID-19 diverted resources and halted many child immunization drives |
Common Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs)
| Disease | Vaccine Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Measles | MMR | Elimination goal reversed in many countries |
| Meningitis | Meningococcal vaccine | Risk rising in Africa’s “meningitis belt” |
| Yellow Fever | Yellow fever vaccine | A major threat in tropical Africa and Latin America |
| Polio | OPV/IPV | India declared polio-free in 2014 |
| Tetanus | TT (Tetanus Toxoid) | India eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus by 2015 |
Progress and Challenges in India
Achievements:
- Polio eradication (2014)
- Maternal and neonatal tetanus eliminated (2015)
- Programs like:
- Mission Indradhanush
- Intensified Mission Indradhanush
- Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)
Challenges:
- 23.9% of children in India still miss full immunization (NFHS-5)
- Urban-rural and gender disparities
- Cold-chain infrastructure gaps
- Vaccine hesitancy in remote and tribal areas
Global Initiatives and Economic Impact
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Immunisation Agenda 2030 (IA2030) | WHO-led global strategy to ensure everyone, everywhere receives vaccines |
| ‘The Big Catch-Up’ | Emergency campaign to cover children missed during COVID-19 |
| Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance | A public-private partnership for vaccine equity in LMICs |
| Economic Return | WHO estimates $54 return for every $1 spent on immunization |
Way Forward: Recommendations
| Area | Action |
|---|---|
| Funding | Increase domestic and international contributions for immunization programs |
| Outreach | Target marginalized communities through ASHA workers and mobile clinics |
| Digital Tools | Expand electronic immunization registries and real-time tracking |
| Combat Hesitancy | Use community leaders, education campaigns, and influencers |
| Global Collaboration | Strengthen partnerships through WHO, UNICEF, Gavi for supply chains and R&D |
Summary
- VPDs like measles and meningitis are resurging globally due to missed vaccinations, worsened by COVID-19, misinformation, and humanitarian challenges.
- Despite India’s strong vaccination record (e.g., polio-free status, Mission Indradhanush), 23.9% of Indian children remain partially immunized.
- The Immunisation Agenda 2030 and campaigns like The Big Catch-Up are essential to restore progress.
- Vaccination remains one of the most cost-effective public health interventions, with a return of $54 per $1 invested.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following diseases are covered under India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)?
- Measles
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- COVID-19
a. 1 and 3 only
b. 1, 2 and 3 only
c. 1, 2, 3 and 4
d. 2 and 4 only
Answer: b. 1, 2 and 3 only
COVID-19 vaccines are not yet officially part of the UIP.
2. What is the estimated economic return on every $1 spent on vaccination, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)?
a. $12
b. $22
c. $54
d. $100
Answer: c. $54
Mains :
1. Vaccine-preventable diseases are on the rise globally. Analyze the causes behind this resurgence and suggest policy measures to strengthen immunization coverage in India.
(GS3 – Health / Public Health Policy)
2. Discuss the role of international organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi in ensuring vaccine equity and public health security globally.
3. Evaluate the success of India’s immunization programs in light of rising vaccine hesitancy and uneven vaccine access.
7. Turbidity Currents in Submarine Canyons – Environment
Why in News?
- A recent study in ACS Environmental Science & Technology has provided first-hand evidence of turbidity currents transporting microplastics into deep-sea zones via submarine canyons, even in regions not influenced by rivers, such as the Whittard Canyon near Ireland.
What are Turbidity Currents?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Fast-moving, gravity-driven flows of dense, sediment-laden water down continental slopes |
| Triggers | Earthquakes, landslides, storms, sediment buildup, or sudden slope collapse |
| Behavior | Act like underwater avalanches, eroding and depositing sediments in graded layers |
| Role in Pollution | Newly found to transport microplastics from surface waters to deep ocean beds |
What are Submarine Canyons?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Steep-sided valleys carved into continental shelves and slopes, often extending to the deep ocean floor |
| Global Presence | ~9,477 known canyons, covering ~11% of continental slope areas |
| Formation | Shaped mainly by erosional forces — notably turbidity currents |
| Types |
- Bank formations: Elevated seabed features (e.g., Dogger Bank in the North Sea)
- Shoal formations: Shallow marine landforms created by deposition |
Microplastics and Turbidity Currents
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Microplastics Source | Breakdown of larger plastics from urban, industrial, and marine waste |
| Transport Mechanism | Carried by turbidity currents into deep-sea canyons, far from land |
| Concern | Leads to deep-sea ecosystem contamination, potentially entering marine food chains |
| Case Study | Whittard Canyon, Ireland: microplastics found in layers deposited by past turbidity flows |
Environmental and Geological Importance
Turbidity Currents:
- Erode the seafloor, shaping canyons and valleys
- Transport nutrients, organic matter, and now pollutants
- Can affect submarine communication cables
Submarine Canyons:
- Act as conduits between shallow and deep marine ecosystems
- Host diverse marine life, often forming biodiversity hotspots
- Provide insight into paleoceanographic and tectonic processes
Biodiversity in Canyon Ecosystems
| Feature | Role |
|---|---|
| Coral Reefs | Found along canyon walls; support complex food chains |
| Sediment Deposits | Create varied habitats for benthic (bottom-dwelling) organisms |
| Ecological Sensitivity | Vulnerable to plastic pollution, deep-sea mining, and climate-induced changes |
Concerns and Challenges
| Concern | Description |
|---|---|
| Plastic Pollution | Turbidity currents enable long-distance movement of microplastics |
| Ecological Impact | Affects deep-sea biodiversity, reproduction, and food chains |
| Knowledge Gaps | Many submarine canyons remain unexplored and unmonitored |
| Policy Gap | Lack of international regulation on microplastic deposition in oceans |
Key Concepts Explained
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Turbidity Current | Rapid, sediment-laden underwater flow triggered by geological disturbances |
| Submarine Canyon | Deep, narrow valleys on the ocean floor, often shaped by turbidity flows |
| Microplastics | Plastic particles <5 mm, generated from the breakdown of larger plastic items |
| Graded Bedding | Sediment layering where coarser particles settle first, followed by finer ones |
| Dogger Bank | A shallow, flat-topped elevation in the North Sea known for fishing grounds |
Summary
- Turbidity currents are high-speed underwater flows that transport sediments—and now, microplastics—into the deep ocean, including through submarine canyons like Whittard Canyon.
- These currents can be triggered by earthquakes, landslides, and storms, and they play a major role in shaping the seafloor.
- Submarine canyons are biodiversity hotspots but are now facing the threat of deep-sea microplastic pollution.
- The study raises awareness about the invisible pathways of ocean pollution and calls for greater research and regulation.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following statements regarding turbidity currents is/are correct?
- They occur only near river mouths.
- They transport sediment and organic matter down continental slopes.
- They can be triggered by underwater earthquakes and landslides.
Select the correct answer:
a. 2 and 3 only
b. 1 and 2 only
c. 1 and 3 only
d. All of the above
Answer: a. 2 and 3 only
Statement 1 is incorrect — turbidity currents can occur even in regions without river inputs, like Whittard Canyon.
2. The Dogger Bank, mentioned in the context of submarine formations, is:
a. A coral reef system in the Pacific
b. A flat-topped elevation in the North Sea
c. A tectonic trench in the Atlantic
d. A submarine volcano near Iceland
Answer: b. A flat-topped elevation in the North Sea
Mains :
1. Discuss the role of turbidity currents in shaping submarine landscapes. How are they contributing to emerging concerns such as microplastic pollution in the deep sea?
(GS3 – Environment / Oceanography)
2. Submarine canyons are both ecological hotspots and vulnerable zones. Evaluate their significance in marine biodiversity conservation and the threats they face.
3. Microplastic pollution is no longer confined to surface waters. Analyze the pathways and long-term implications of deep-sea plastic contamination.