14th September Current Affairs

1. Global Stocktake Report
2. Fraternity
3. 75th anniversary of Operation Polo
4. Enhancing Mosquito Control through Genetic Engineering
5. Special Session of Parliament
6. Humans has breached six of nine planetary boundaries
7. Ayushman Bhav Campaign

GLOBAL STOCKTAKE REPORT

Context

During the G-20 summit in New Delhi, the UN climate secretariat unveiled a ‘synthesis report’ summarizing global progress toward the objectives of the 2015 Paris Agreement.

This report, known as the ‘global stocktake,’ plays a crucial role in evaluating efforts to combat climate change every five years.

 

Understanding the ‘Global Stocktake’

(1) Origins and Purpose:

The ‘global stocktake’ is an integral part of the Paris Agreement, which commits nations to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius, with a target of striving for 1.5 degrees. Its primary purpose is to periodically assess and review individual countries’ actions in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

 

(2) Influence on Climate Talks:

The inaugural report, released recently, holds significant importance as it shapes discussions at the 28th UN Climate Conference of Parties (COP) in Dubai scheduled for November.

While countries have submitted their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for climate action, the stocktake encourages them to enhance their ambitions before the next round of NDC submissions in 2025.

Key Insights from the Report

(1) Overall Assessment:

The 45-page synthesis report highlights 17 key findings that collectively indicate that the world is not on track to meet the targets set by the Paris Agreement. Nevertheless, it underscores a narrowing opportunity for countries to align their efforts.

 

(2) Echoing Previous Concerns:

This report echoes concerns expressed in the 2022 UN synthesis report, which analyzed the NDCs of 166 countries and found them insufficient to achieve the Paris Agreement’s objectives.

It reiterates the findings of the United Nations Emissions Gap Report, emphasizing the significant gap in reducing CO2 emissions compared to the Paris Agreement targets.

 

Crucial ‘Key Findings’

(1) Galvanized Global Response:

The Paris Agreement has motivated countries to establish climate goals and acknowledge the urgency of addressing the climate crisis. Governments must provide support for a fair and inclusive transition away from fossil fuels.

 

(2) Ambitious Goals:

To reach the global greenhouse gas emission reduction targets of 43% by 2030 and 60% by 2035, ultimately leading to net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, much greater ambition is required.

 

(3) Renewable Energy Transition:

Scaling up the use of renewable energy is imperative, while the phase-out of unabated fossil fuels must happen rapidly.

 

(4) Environmental Conservation:

Efforts to halt deforestation, reverse land degradation, and promote emission-reducing agricultural practices should be actively promoted.

 

(5) Adaptation and Loss Management:

Comprehensive risk management and support for affected communities are essential for averting, minimizing, and addressing loss and damage caused by climate change.

(6) Financial Commitment:

Transparent adaptation reporting and the swift scaling up of financial support are necessary to align global financial flows with climate-resilient development.

 

Influence on Global Climate Discussion

  • The global stocktake report serves as a foundational document for the upcoming UN Climate Conference of Parties (COP).

 

  • Notably, it influenced the G20 Leaders Declaration, which officially recognized the substantial financial requirements for transitioning to a renewable energy-based economy.

 

This acknowledgment sets the stage for intensified efforts, emphasizing the need for trillions of dollars to support climate action, renewable technologies, and the path to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Fraternity

Context:

  • The concept of fraternity, which has evolved since ancient times, stands as a significant pillar in liberal political philosophy alongside liberty and equality.

 

  • Fraternity, in the realm of politics, signifies a unique bond and connection among members of a community. This bond compels them to coexist as equals and offer mutual support in times of need.

 

  • Fraternity represents a sense of unity and camaraderie among individuals and communities that transcends mere material resource-sharing. It is indispensable for the survival and effective operation of a societal framework.

 

 

Historical Background:

Ancient Greece:

  • The origins of the notion of fraternity can be traced back to ancient Greece, where philosophers like Plato and Aristotle explored its early facets.

 

  • Plato’s “Lysis” dialogue underscored the importance of philia, or love, as a profound desire for the pursuit of wisdom.

 

 

  • In this context, the sharing of knowledge and forming meaningful connections with others were seen as integral components of fraternity.

 

  • Aristotle introduced the concept of the polis, emphasizing the significance of political community and friendship among citizens, laying the groundwork for the idea of political fraternity.

 

Medieval Europe:

  • In the Middle Ages, fraternity took on religious connotations within the Christian society of Europe.

 

  • Religious communities and monastic orders fostered a sense of brotherhood among their members, stressing shared values and spirituality.

 

  • During this period, fraternity often intertwined with religious morality and communal living.

 

 

 

French Revolution:

  • The concept of fraternity gained political prominence during the French Revolution of 1789, where it became one of the three core principles of the revolution, alongside liberty and equality.

 

  • The motto “liberté, égalité, fraternité” embodied the revolutionary ideals of unity and solidarity among citizens in the face of oppressive monarchy.

 

Fraternity in India:

  • In the Indian context, the notion of fraternity gained prominence during the country’s struggle for independence and the subsequent establishment of constitutional democracy.

 

  • Leaders such as B.R. Ambedkar emphasized the inseparability of liberty, equality, and fraternity as essential principles for a diverse and socially stratified society.

 

  • The framers of the Indian Constitution recognized the significance of fraternity, particularly in addressing hierarchical social inequalities.

 

Constitutional and Legal Provisions Promoting Fraternity:

 

  • The Constitution of India, while mentioning fraternity in its preamble, also includes numerous provisions that promote fraternity:

 

  • Constitutional Restrictions on Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19):
  • Article 19(2) of the Indian Constitution places restrictions on the fundamental right to Freedom of Speech and Expression. These restrictions, including considerations of decency, morality, defamation, and incitement of offenses, aim to maintain social harmony and protect individual dignity.

 

Protection of Distinct Language, Script, and Culture (Article 29):

  • Article 29(1) of the Constitution acknowledges the right of any section of citizens with a distinct language, script, or culture to preserve the same.

 

  • This provision promotes fraternity by safeguarding the cultural diversity and identity of various communities within the nation.

 

Section 295A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC):

  • This section addresses deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage the religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs.

 

  • It reflects the importance of respecting religious sentiments and upholding fraternity by discouraging actions that could incite religious tensions or hatred.

 

Protection of Human Rights:

  • Various legislations and the establishment of institutions like the National Human Rights Commission and State Human Rights Commissions underscore the importance of safeguarding the human rights of all individuals.

 

  • These measures aim to ensure the dignity and well-being of every citizen, promoting fraternity by protecting their rights.

 

Welfare of Senior Citizens (Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2017):

  • This legislation addresses the welfare of senior citizens, emphasizing the need to care for and protect the elderly in society. It reflects the values of respect and responsibility within families and communities, contributing to a sense of fraternity.

 

Protection of Women’s Rights (Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005):

  • Legislation aimed at protecting women from domestic violence acknowledges the need to safeguard the rights and dignity of women. This aligns with the principle of fraternity by promoting gender equality and ensuring the well-being of all citizens.

 

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016):

  • This law focuses on the rights and welfare of disabled persons, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and equal treatment. It reflects the spirit of fraternity by advocating for the inclusion and protection of vulnerable individuals.

 

Juvenile Justice and Child Protection (Juvenile Justice Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015):

  • This legislation addresses the rehabilitation and reformation of juveniles in conflict with the law. It recognizes the importance of offering guidance and support to young offenders, promoting a sense of responsibility and care within society.

 

 

 

 

Role of the Judiciary in Promoting Fraternity:

 

The judiciary plays a pivotal role in safeguarding individual rights and upholding constitutional values that promote fraternity.

 

Judicial Interpretation:

In various cases, the judiciary has acknowledged the importance of fraternity as reflected in the Preamble of the Constitution. It has emphasized that achieving justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity requires the commitment and loyalty of the State’s organs to these constitutional values.

 

Reservation and Fraternity:

In cases like ‘Aruna Roy v. Union of India’ and ‘Indra Sawhney v. Union of India,’ the Supreme Court has discussed the idea of fraternity in relation to reservation policies. It recognizes fraternity as essential for achieving national unity and dignity and as a justification for affirmative action aimed at addressing historical inequalities.

 

Cultural and Religious Awareness:

Encouraging education about different religions and cultures, as advocated by the Chavan Committee (1999), can promote social cohesion and harmony. Such knowledge can help build mutual trust, understanding, and respect, reinforcing the value of fraternity in a diverse society.

 

Secularism and Fraternity:

The Supreme Court has emphasized that secularism is an essential feature of the Indian Constitution and sees the principle of fraternity as a precursor to achieving secularism. Secularism is considered a bastion for building fraternity, emphasizing the need for a society where all religious beliefs are respected.

 

Protection of Dignity and Human Rights:

The judiciary has taken a stand against arbitrary or misguided state policies that could undermine the idea of fraternity and human dignity. It underscores the importance of policies and actions being in line with constitutional values and morality.

 

Privileges and Fraternity:

The Court, in cases like ‘Shri Raghunathrao Ganpatrao v. Union of India,’ has held that certain privileges, such as those enjoyed by the princely class, may threaten common brotherhood and fraternity. This reflects the principle that privileges that create divisions can be incompatible with fraternity.

 

Importance of Fraternity in India:

 

  1. Promoting Constitutional Values:

Fraternity is seen as a tool to protect and promote other constitutional values, such as liberty, equality, and justice. It is particularly vital in a diverse country like India, where unity is essential for social and political progress.

 

  1. Rule of Law:

Faith in the idea of fraternity can help establish the rule of law as a reality. It implies that fraternity is a foundational principle for a just and law-abiding society.

 

 

 

 

  1. Role of Fraternity in Governance:

Fraternity imposes duties on the State to foster social cohesion and solidarity. It necessitates ensuring the well-being of marginalized individuals and promoting social inclusivity.

 

  1. Universal Rules of Morality:

Fraternity can be viewed as a set of universal rules of morality that transcend individual, group, or caste interests. These rules ensure the protection of individual rights and prevent conflicts within society.

 

  1. Religious Cohesion:

Different religions have varying degrees of fraternity. While some, like Buddhism, emphasize a sense of brotherhood extending to all humans, others may limit it to specific communities or castes.

 

  1. Fraternity and Dignity:

The Preamble emphasizes that the nation’s unity can only be achieved when the dignity of the individual is secured. This underscores the importance of respecting the rights and dignity of every citizen.

 

  1. Countering Divisive Forces:

Fraternity plays a crucial role in countering regionalism, linguistics, communalism, and secessionist activities. It fosters a spirit of brotherhood that helps bridge the gaps created by societal diversity.

 

  1. Duties of the People:

The constitution not only outlines the ideals and aspirations of the Indian people but also highlights their duty to achieving justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all citizens. Article 51A(e) imposes a duty to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood among all the people of India.

 

  1. Complementary to Equality:

Fraternity complements equality, as it operates as a safeguard against inequality. The Constitution explicitly prohibits all forms of inequality and untouchability, reinforcing the need for fraternity in society.

 

  • Civil Liberties and Self-Regulation:

In a civil society, where individual desires need to be controlled and reconciled, fraternity promotes self-control and self-regulation, prerequisites for a just and fair society.

 

  • Freedom of Speech and Tolerance:

Fraternity encourages respectful communication and tolerance among citizens.

 

  • Freedom of Religion and Neutrality:

Fraternity helps reduce misunderstandings by establishing a sense of common brotherhood among different religious groups.

 

  • Cultural Rights and Duties:

The Constitution safeguards cultural rights, and it also imposes duties on citizens to promote harmony, common brotherhood, and the preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage.

Challenges to Fraternity in India:

Fraternity vs. Caste System:

The caste system in India posed a significant challenge to the idea of fraternity. The mixing of caste and politics has led to the politicization of caste identities, which can be detrimental to social cohesion and fraternity. Fraternal ties have often been limited to caste communities, hindering the forging of broader political unity.

 

Attacks on Minorities:

Incidents of violence and attacks against minority communities undermine the sense of fraternity among different religious and ethnic groups. Such actions create divisions and disrupt social harmony.

 

Violence Against Women:

Violence against women, even by their relatives, is a serious concern. It reflects a lack of respect for the dignity and well-being of individuals, which is a core aspect of fraternity.

 

Exploitation of Weaker Sections:

The exploitation of weaker sections of society, including child labor and child sexual abuse, is a clear violation of the principles of equality and fraternity. It highlights the need for greater social justice and protection of vulnerable groups.

 

Gender Inequality:

Gender inequality remains a challenge, reflecting a lack of fraternity in the treatment of women and their rights.

 

 

Communalism and Religious Fundamentalism:

Communalism and religious fundamentalism disrupt social harmony and create divisions among religious communities.

 

Political Violence:

The use of violence for political purposes is dangerous and erodes trust and unity among citizens. It undermines the principles of democracy and fraternity.

 

Regionalism:

Regionalism, driven by regional disparities and imbalances in development, can create divisions within the nation and hampers fraternity.

 

Lack of Promotion of Harmony:

Efforts to promote harmony and a spirit of common brotherhood among people of different sections and religions have been insufficient. True fraternity requires respecting, understanding, and accommodating diverse beliefs.

 

Way Forward:

 

Preamble and Beyond:

While fraternity is explicitly mentioned in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, its significance goes beyond just being a preamble statement. It should permeate all aspects of society to establish a peaceful, just, and fair social order.

 

 

 

Caste System:

Dr. Ambedkar believed that eliminating the caste system is essential for achieving true fraternity and building a united nation.

 

Link to Other Constitutional Values:

Fraternity is seen as a foundational step toward achieving other constitutional values such as equality, liberty, and the dignity of individuals. It is posited that by nurturing fraternity, India’s unity and integrity will naturally flourish.

 

Role of Judiciary:

The concept of fraternity is suggested to have ample scope for interpretation within the Constitution. It can be a valuable tool for promoting social solidarity and addressing various challenges and inequalities.

 

Responsibility of All Organs of Government:

All three branches of government (executive, legislature, and judiciary) should have a responsibility for promoting and fostering the idea of fraternity and brotherhood. This implies that the government should work towards ensuring that policies and actions promote unity and respect among citizens.

 

Educating About Fraternity:

Education about the concept of fraternity is deemed essential. Raising awareness and understanding of fraternity among citizens can contribute to a more cohesive and harmonious society.

 

 

 

Protective Laws:

Numerous protective laws have been enacted by Parliament to safeguard the rights of underprivileged sections of society. However, if fraternal bonds had been appropriately developed and maintained, such laws might not be necessary.

 

To achieve political fraternity, certain preconditions are necessary. It should not overlook social inequalities or promote social solidarity based on hatred or discrimination.

It must resist the rhetoric of belligerent nationalism and religious intolerance, as these factors can undermine true fraternity. The relationship between caste and political fraternity in India remains a complex and evolving issue.

The task of Indian politics in the future is to determine whether fraternity or caste will prevail, as they appear incompatible in the current social milieu.

Question:

Examine the role of fraternity in India’s political philosophy, its historical evolution, and contemporary significance. Discuss key constitutional provisions, judicial interpretations, and government responsibilities in promoting fraternity. Assess the challenges to fraternity and propose strategies to strengthen it in the Indian polity. Support your analysis with relevant examples.

75TH ANNIVERSARY OF OPERATION POLO

Context:

  • On September 13, 2023, we commemorate the 75th anniversary of Operation Polo, a significant military endeavor carried out by the Indian Army in 1948 to integrate the princely state of Hyderabad.

 

  • Often referred to as the “Police Action,” this operation resulted in the surrender of the Nizam of Hyderabad’s forces to the Indian Army by September 18, 1948.

 

  • To fully grasp its historical significance, it is essential to delve into the background and events leading up to Operation Polo.

 

Context of Operation Polo:

  1. The Nizam’s Position:
  • Following India’s independence in 1947, the Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Shah, hesitated to align with either India or Pakistan.
  • He took advantage of the focus on the Kashmir conflict, entering into a standstill agreement with India in November 1947, which maintained the existing status quo in Hyderabad.

 

  1. Escalating Tensions:
  • Hyderabad, a prosperous Deccan state, had a predominantly Hindu population but was governed by Muslim rulers.

 

  • Despite having no shared border with Pakistan, the Nizam sought friendly relations with Pakistan.

 

  • The Nizam’s forces, particularly the Razakars, contributed to rising tensions through actions such as cross-border raids and outreach to Pakistan.

 

The Military Campaign: Operation Polo:

  1. Hyderabad’s Military and Situation:

 

Hyderabad’s military consisted of approximately 25,000 troops, but their training and readiness were limited. The Razakars, although numerous, posed only a minor military challenge.

 

  1. Leadership of the Indian Army:

The Indian forces were led by Major General Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri, who served as the General Officer Commanding of 1 Armoured Division.

 

  1. Multi-Directional Offensive:

The primary assault originated from the west, led by 1 Armoured Division and supported by forces from the north, south, and east.

Key components of this offensive included the Smash Force, Kill Force, and Vir Force in the western thrust.

Simultaneously, additional thrusts were launched from Aurangabad, Jabalpur, and the eastern front, with a southern thrust originating from Vijayawada.

 

Conclusion: Surrender and Significance:

  1. Ceasefire and Surrender:
  • A ceasefire was declared by the Nizam on September 17, 1948.

 

  • On September 18, Major General Chaudhuri entered Hyderabad, where Major General El Edroos surrendered to him.

 

  • Major General Chaudhuri was subsequently appointed as the Military Governor of Hyderabad.

 

  1. Honoring a Hero:
  • Havildar Bachhitar Singh of 2 Sikh was posthumously awarded the first Ashoka Chakra of Independent India for his role in Operation Polo.

He made the ultimate sacrifice on September 13, 1948, while advancing towards Naldurg, a part of the Hyderabad state.

ENHANCING MOSQUITO CONTROL THROUGH GENETIC ENGINEERING

What’s New in the World of Mosquito Control?

 

  • The global trend towards urbanization, particularly evident in economically developing nations like India, has led to annual spikes in mosquito-borne illnesses.

 

  • An innovative response to this challenge involves genetic engineering, a method that seeks to modify mosquito traits or behaviors.

 

Why the Demand for Innovative Mosquito Control Strategies?

 

Background:

  • Mosquitoes, those small buzzing insects belonging to the Culicidae family, are infamous for transmitting diseases to both humans and animals.
  • These diseases, including Malaria, Dengue, Zika, and Yellow Fever, afflict millions annually.

 

Shifting Dynamics of Mosquito-Borne Illnesses:

  1. Urbanization and Climate Alterations: The rapid urbanization of the global population, particularly in nations like India, has amplified mosquito-borne diseases like dengue.

Furthermore, climate change has extended the regions where these diseases are prevalent, exemplified by indigenous dengue cases in France.

 

  1. Current Control Measures: In the ongoing battle against mosquitoes, a variety of tools have been utilized, including mosquito nets, insecticides, and the use of symbionts such as Wolbachia (Prelims 2023).

 

Despite having a first-generation malaria vaccine available, the emergence of insecticide-resistant mosquitoes poses a growing concern, necessitating exploration of novel control strategies.

 

Harnessing Genetic Engineering for Mosquito Control:

 

  • Genomic Sequencing: Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing techniques have enabled researchers to obtain complete genome sequences for various mosquito species.

 

  • Notably, institutions like the University of California and research centers in Bengaluru, India, have contributed high-quality reference genomes for Anopheles stephensi, a prominent malaria vector.

 

  • The accessibility of mosquito genome sequences, along with our ability to genetically manipulate them, presents unprecedented opportunities for mosquito control.

 

  • Gene Drive Technology: Austin Burt, a professor at Imperial College London, developed gene-drive technology in 2003 to manage mosquito populations by altering the inheritance of specific genes, deviating from Mendel’s traditional genetic principles.

 

  • This technology employs specialized proteins to edit mosquito DNA. When these proteins incise the mosquito’s DNA, the cell corrects it by incorporating a precise genetic sequence.

 

  • This alteration affects the mosquito’s reproductive capacity and impedes the multiplication of the malaria parasite within them, rendering the mosquitoes incapable of disease transmission.

 

  • Researchers at Imperial College London have enhanced a mosquito gene to secrete antimicrobial substances, disrupting the development of the Plasmodium parasite and reducing mosquito lifespan.

 

Benefits and Risks of Genetic Engineering for Mosquito Control:

 

  • Precise Mosquito Management: Genetic engineering permits the precise modification of mosquito populations, with a focus on disease-carrying species. This targeted approach reduces the reliance on broad-spectrum insecticides, minimizing harm to non-target species.

 

  • Lower Environmental Impact: Compared to conventional insecticides, genetic engineering may have a reduced environmental footprint as it avoids chemical pollution of ecosystems, safeguarding other beneficial insects and aquatic life.

 

  • Sustainability: Genetically modified mosquitoes, once released, can perpetuate their modified genes, offering a sustainable and self-sustaining approach to mosquito control, eliminating the need for frequent reapplication.

 

  • Public Health: Genetic engineering’s reduction of mosquito-borne diseases can have a profound positive impact on public health, potentially saving countless lives and diminishing healthcare costs associated with disease treatment.

 

Risks and Concerns of Genetic Engineering for Mosquito Control:

 

  • Unintended Outcomes: Genetic modifications can lead to unforeseen consequences in ecosystems. Changes in mosquito populations might disrupt food chains or create ecological imbalances, affecting other species inadvertently.

 

  • Ethical Considerations: Critics raise ethical objections to manipulating the genes of organisms, particularly when it involves altering the genetics of wild populations. Questions of ecological responsibility arise.

 

  • Invasion Risk: Genetically modified mosquitoes may unintentionally acquire traits that enhance their ability to invade new habitats, potentially causing unforeseen ecological disruptions in regions beyond their natural range.

 

Conclusion:

Genetic engineering offers the potential to transform mosquito control for disease prevention. However, it is essential to continue addressing the associated environmental risks and ethical concerns through rigorous research and adaptable regulation.

SPECIAL SESSION OF PARLIAMENT

Context

  • The government of India has announced a special session of Parliament to take place in the newly constructed parliamentary building. This session holds significant importance as it marks the inaugural use of this new facility.

 

Overview of Special Parliament Sessions:

  • A special session of Parliament denotes a distinct meeting convened outside of the regular parliamentary sessions.

 

  • The term “special session” is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution of India; instead, its convening is guided by Article 85(1) of the Constitution.

 

Summoning Procedures for Such Sessions:

  • Article 85(1) of the Indian Constitution outlines the process for convening Parliament.

 

  • This constitutional provision empowers the President to summon Parliament into session, including special sessions, when deemed necessary.

 

  • It states: “The President shall, from time to time, summon each House of Parliament to meet at such time and place as they consider appropriate, ensuring that no more than six months elapse between the last sitting of one session and the first sitting of the next session.”

 

Historical Background of Special Sessions:

Special sessions of Parliament have encompassed various themes and formats over the years:

[A] Special Sessions Involving Debates:

  • In 2015, a special session paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his 125th birth anniversary.
  • In 1997, Parliament convened to commemorate India’s 50th anniversary of independence.
  • In 1962, the agenda included a discussion on the India-China war situation.

 

[B] Midnight Special Sessions (Without Debates):

  • In 1972, a session was held to celebrate 25 years of India’s independence.
  • In 1992, a special session marked the 50th anniversary of the Quit India Movement.

In 2017, a session was convened to celebrate the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

HUMANS HAS BREACHED SIX OF NINE PLANETARY BOUNDARIES

Context:

  • A recent study has highlighted a concerning reality: humanity has exceeded six out of nine critical planetary boundaries crucial for the stability and resilience of Earth’s ecosystems.

 

  • This situation highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive reevaluation of our environmental impact and emphasizes the necessity of global collaboration to address these pressing challenges.

 

 

Exploring the Nine Planetary Boundaries:

  • These nine planetary boundaries encompass climate change, biosphere integrity, land system change, freshwater change, biogeochemical flows, and novel entities.

 

Understanding these boundaries is essential for comprehending the state of our planet.

Understanding Planetary Boundaries:

  1. Establishing Safe Limits:
  • Planetary boundaries can be likened to vital health parameters in humans, such as blood pressure.

 

  • Just as high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, surpassing planetary boundaries escalates the risk of triggering irreversible environmental changes.

 

  1. An Evolving Framework:
  • The planetary boundaries framework was introduced in 2009 to define the safe environmental limits within which humanity should operate.
  • To remain relevant, the framework must adapt as our understanding of Earth’s complex systems and human impacts evolves.

 

 

The Third Iteration: Assessing Environmental Risks:

  1. Identifying Critical Processes:

Researchers studied processes within Earth’s ecosystem that have sustained favorable conditions for humans over the past 12,000 years, known for stable and temperate planetary conditions.

 

  1. Evaluating Human Impact:

The study assessed the extent of human activities modifying these crucial processes. Computer simulations were used to pinpoint when human activities could trigger irreversible changes in Earth’s systems.

 

  1. Alarming Revelations:

The study revealed that human activities breached safe boundaries for climate change and land system change as early as 1988, putting us on a path toward significant systemic disruption.

 

Boundaries Crossed and Their Consequences:

 

  1. Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Concentration:

The safe limit was set at 350 ppm; it currently stands at 417 ppm, leading to significant climate change.

 

  1. Land System Change:

The safe limit aimed to maintain 75% of the original forest cover; the current estimate is at 60%, with profound consequences for land systems.

 

 

 

  1. Biosphere Integrity:

The safe limit was fewer than 10 extinctions per million species-years, but the actual rate has exceeded 100, severely threatening numerous plant and animal species.

 

  1. Freshwater Change:

Boundaries have been exceeded for both blue and green water resources, negatively impacting ecosystems.

 

  1. Biogeochemical Flows:

Safe boundaries have been surpassed for phosphorus and nitrogen flows, with alarming implications for biodiversity and water quality.

 

  1. Novel Entities:

The planetary boundary for novel entities was set at zero, but it has been transgressed, risking stratospheric ozone depletion, aerosol loading, and ocean acidification.

 

Way Forward: Urgent Global Collaboration:

  1. Lessons from the Ozone Layer:

Successful global negotiations, like the Montreal Protocol, managed to restore the ozone layer to safe levels after transgression, emphasizing the importance of adhering to limits on environmental waste.

 

  1. Embracing a Circular Economy:

A circular economy, mirroring nature’s system, is essential. Transitioning toward it represents a crucial step in addressing these planetary challenges.

 

Conclusion:

The study’s findings serve as a stark reminder of humanity’s responsibility to safeguard Earth’s delicate equilibrium.

Breaching planetary boundaries not only poses immediate risks but also endangers the long-term sustainability of our planet.

Urgent global cooperation and a commitment to respecting environmental limits are essential to prevent a potentially catastrophic future.

AYUSHMAN BHAV CAMPAIGN

Context:

  • In a virtual ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan in Gandhinagar, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the Ayushman Bhav campaign and the Ayushman Bhava Portal on Wednesday.

 

  • This event is of great historical significance as it represents a major stride towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and ensuring healthcare accessibility for all.

 

  • The Ayushman Bhav campaign’s primary objective is to make healthcare services accessible and affordable, with a special focus on underserved populations.

 

  • It is deeply rooted in the principle of “antyodaya,” which strives to ensure good health for every individual, leaving no one behind.

 

  • To effectively deliver healthcare services to even the remotest corners of India, the campaign adopts a multi-ministerial approach, which is deemed crucial for achieving its objectives.

 

  • Local governance bodies, including Gram Panchayats, play an active role and are acknowledged for their contributions, with successful Gram Panchayats earning the title of Ayushman Gram Panchayats.

 

  • An initiative known as Seva Pakwada, scheduled from September 17th to October 2nd, 2023, aims to saturate essential health services, underscoring the government’s commitment to achieving sustainable development goals.

 

Key components of the campaign include

  1. Ayushman – Apke Dwar 3.0, Ayushman Melas at Health and Wellness Centres (HWC), Community Health Clinics (CHC), and Ayushman Sabhas in every village and panchayat.
  2. These components are designed to expedite healthcare access at the grassroots level.

 

  1. Recognizing India’s strides in digital inclusion, the campaign leverages digital technology to expand the reach of healthcare facilities.

 

  1. Health Melas and Medical Camps are integral to Ayushman Bhav, with weekly setups planned at all HWCs and CHCs. These initiatives aim to provide healthcare services and raise awareness among the populace.

 

  1. Additionally, the campaign intends to organize campaigns promoting organ and blood donation, emphasizing the noble importance of these initiatives.

 

  1. It also acknowledges the progress made in eradicating tuberculosis (TB) with the support of Ni-kshay mitras caring for TB patients.

 

Over the past nine years, India’s healthcare landscape has seen a significant transformation, with the establishment of over 1.6 lakh functional AB-HWCs (Health and Wellness Centres) offering free primary care facilities, diagnostics, and medicines.

 

The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) serves as a digital ecosystem to support Universal Health Coverage efficiently, inclusively, and securely.

Managed by the National Health Authority (NHA) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

 

 

ABDM boasts several noteworthy features:

 

  1. ABHA Number: This unique health account number enables individuals to authenticate and access their health records.

 

  1. Healthcare Professionals Registry (HPR): A comprehensive database that includes information about all healthcare professionals.

 

  1. Health Facility Registry (HFR): A database encompassing various health facilities, including hospitals and clinics.

 

  1. ABHA Mobile App: This app grants users access to their health records, insurance plans, and public health initiatives.

 

  1. Unified Health Interface (UHI): Facilitates digital health services such as teleconsultation and appointment booking.

 

6. ABDM Sandbox: Provides support for technology and product testing for organizations joining the digital health ecosystem.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments