20 April 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

Indian Express Editorial Analysis

20-April-2024

1. A BITTER SWEET

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health – This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of knowing facts about the health implications of introducing sugar-containing feeds to infants which underscore the importance of healthcare policies aimed at promoting infant nutrition and preventing chronic diseases.

 

Context:

The analysis delves into the implications of a recent report on the contribution of sugar-containing supplements to obesity and diabetes in infants, particularly focusing on its significance in the Indian context. It addresses the concerning findings and their potential ramifications on public health and healthcare policies.

Significance of Findings:

• The report, which builds upon previous research, highlights the unexpected association between sugar-containing supplements and Type 2 Diabetes in children and young adults.
• It draws attention to the alarming prevalence of high-sugar baby food products, particularly in developing countries like India, and underscores the urgent need for intervention.

Health Implications:

• The introduction of sugar-containing feeds at six months of age poses significant risks to infant health, especially in populations predisposed to diabetes.
• The constant exposure to simple sugars burdens the pancreas, leading to insulin exhaustion and resistance to leptin, thereby contributing to obesity.
• Moreover, the long-term consequences include increased susceptibility to hypertension, kidney damage, and heart disease, necessitating comprehensive long-term studies to assess the full extent of risks.

Ethical Concerns:

• The analysis elucidates the ethical dilemma surrounding the differential treatment of developing countries in infant formula composition.
• While developed nations offer formulas without added sugars, developing countries often lack such options, perpetuating unjust health disparities.
• Furthermore, the lack of transparency in labeling exacerbates the issue, hindering informed consumer choices.

Commercial Exploitation:

• The promotion of sugar-containing infant formulas by prominent brands raises ethical concerns regarding the prioritization of profit over public health.
• The marketing strategies employed, including endorsements by medical professionals and celebrities, propagate unhealthy practices and undermine breastfeeding, despite its established benefits.

Policy Recommendations:

• In light of the findings, the analysis advocates for stringent regulation to address the proliferation of sugar-containing infant formulas.
• It calls for transparent labeling practices, stricter advertising regulations, and concerted efforts to promote breastfeeding and healthier dietary habits.
• Additionally, it underscores the importance of international collaboration to ensure equitable access to nutritious infant feeding options.

Conclusion:

• The analysis concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated action to mitigate the adverse effects of sugar-containing infant formulas on public health.
• By prioritizing ethical considerations and implementing evidence-based policies, stakeholders can work towards safeguarding the well-being of infants and preventing the escalation of obesity and diabetes epidemics in vulnerable populations.

WHO Recommendations

WHO recommends a reduced intake of free sugars throughout the lifecourse.  In both adults and children, WHO recommends reducing the intake of free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake. WHO suggests a further reduction of the intake of free sugars to below 5% of total energy intake.

 

Practice Question:  Discuss the implications of sugar-containing supplements on infant health, with a focus on the Indian context. Analyze the health risks associated with the introduction of such supplements at an early age and evaluate the ethical concerns surrounding their promotion and marketing. (250 words/15 m)

 

2. Story of one citizen one vote

Topic: GS2 – Governance – This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of knowing facts about India’s electoral democracy, the role of the Election Commission, and the principles of universal adult franchise.

 

Context:

India’s General Elections, spanning from April 19 to June 1, mark a significant moment in the world’s largest constitutional democracy. With approximately 970 million eligible voters out of a population of 1.4 billion, the scale of this electoral undertaking is monumental.

Evolution of Elections:

• The concept of elections, derived from the Latin “eligere,” meaning “to pick out,” reflects a relatively contemporary notion of democratic governance.
• Unlike the United States, where suffrage initially excluded women, African Americans, and Native Americans, India’s journey to universal adult franchise was clear and unbroken.
• The Constituent Assembly, tasked with drafting the Constitution, envisioned broad-based democracy without property or literacy qualifications for voting rights.

India’s Path to Universal Adult Franchise:

• India’s ambitious project of universal adult franchise was solidified during the tumultuous years of Partition and nation-building.
• Despite initial concerns, leaders like Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar advocated for inclusive suffrage, emphasizing its role in rooting out corruption and fostering a healthy democracy.
• The fruition of this vision came with the first general elections in 1951-1952, marking a historic moment with over 173 million voters participating.

Role of the Election Commission:

• India’s Constitution entrusted the security of universal franchise to the Election Commission, emphasizing its role in superintendence, direction, and control of elections.
• The Election Commission’s neutrality and impartiality are crucial for the integrity of India’s electoral democracy.

Reflections on India’s Electoral Democracy:

• As India’s elections unfold, it prompts reflection on the vision of the founding fathers and mothers. Are we living up to their aspirations for a vibrant and inclusive electoral democracy?
• The ongoing electoral exercise serves as a testament to India’s commitment to democratic principles and its journey towards realizing the ideals enshrined in its Constitution.

Conclusion:

• India’s General Elections and the broader global electoral landscape of 2024 underscore the enduring significance of democratic processes in shaping the course of nations and the world.

Global Elections in 2024

The year 2024 is not just significant for India but also for countries worldwide, with over half the world’s population participating in elections. From Bangladesh to the United States, nations are engaging in democratic processes that shape global politics and economics. The Institute of International Finance warns of the potential economic implications of this “tsunami” of elections, with concerns about the impact on global debt levels.

 

PYQ: To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2017)

Practice Question:  Discuss the importance of India’s General Elections in 2024 and their impact on the country’s democratic fabric. (150 words/10 m)

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