21 August 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

1. On the ethanol blending programme

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Topic: GS3 – Environment – Clean Energy

Context

India is progressing towards its 20% ethanol blending target by 2025-26, marked by increased production and capacity. However, concerns about food security arise due to rising maize imports and water usage for sugarcane. Balancing ethanol production with these challenges remains a key issue in policy discussions.

Overview of Ethanol Blending Targets

• India aims to blend 20% ethanol with petrol by 2025-26, with progress marked by milestones in blending percentages and increased ethanol production capacity.
• The target involves producing approximately 1,000 crore litres of ethanol. Current blending rates are between 13% to 15%, a significant increase from around 8% in 2021.
• Ethanol production capacity has expanded considerably, reaching 1,380 crore litres as of December 2023, with 875 crore litres from sugarcane and 505 crore litres from foodgrains.

Food vs. Fuel Debate

• The food versus fuel equation remains a concern, as increased ethanol production has led to a rise in maize imports due to its use in ethanol production, exacerbated by restrictions on using sugarcane products.
• The industry argues that India has sufficient food grains and sugar surpluses, but concerns about potential wastage and spoilage due to large food stocks are noted.
• To address food security and sustainability issues, there is a call to diversify from first-generation (1G) ethanol to second-generation (2G) and third-generation (3G) ethanol, which are less impactful on food resources.

Ethanol Production Capacity and Investments

• To meet the 20% blending target, significant investments have been made in ethanol production.
• The sugar industry alone has invested approximately ₹40,000 crore in expanding capacity, with 92 crore litres of new capacity added in two years.
• The current ethanol production capacity has nearly reached the target, but with a higher proportion of sugarcane-based ethanol.

Government Policies and Production Dynamics

• Interest subvention programs have supported the expansion of ethanol production capacity.
• There is industry demand for extending these programs and securing long-term contracts with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to maintain momentum and create surplus capacity.
• The diversion of sugarcane products to ethanol production has led to restrictions on the use of B-heavy molasses and sugarcane juice, which could affect sugar stocks.
• These restrictions may be lifted as fears of depleting sugar surpluses are deemed unfounded.

Water Usage and Sustainability Concerns

• Expanding sugarcane production to meet ethanol blending targets requires significant additional water.
• To sustain 50% of the 1,000 crore litres from sugarcane, an extra 400 billion litres of water would be needed, potentially impacting agricultural sustainability by diverting irrigation from essential food crops.
• To compensate for restrictions on molasses, grain-based distilleries, primarily using maize, have been operating at full capacity.

Economic and Agricultural Impact

• India, a major maize producer, faces increased maize imports and potential price hikes due to the diversion of maize for ethanol production.
• This could negatively affect the poultry sector and other major uses of maize.
• The Commerce Ministry reported a significant increase in maize imports from $39 million in 2023-24 to $103 million in the April-June period of this year.
• To meet the 20% blending target, substantial additional maize cultivation is required, impacting the typical cultivation area.

Vehicle Performance and State-Level Impacts

• Ethanol blending is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save foreign exchange, while also boosting the rural economy.
• However, higher ethanol content may affect the performance of existing vehicles, which may require engine re-tuning or changes to E20-supported materials.
• Different states view the ethanol policy differently. In some states, fuel ethanol pricing and its impact on liquor production determine the attractiveness of ethanol production. For instance, some states focus on maximising ethanol output from sugarcane, while others consider alternatives like maize.

Conclusion

• The expansion of ethanol production in India involves a complex interplay of food security, water usage, economic impacts, and state-level policies.
• While progress towards blending targets is notable, balancing ethanol production with food security and sustainability concerns remains crucial.

Practice Question:  Discuss the challenges and implications of India’s ethanol blending target on food security and agricultural sustainability. How can the government address these issues effectively? (250 Words /15 marks)

2. Laws are not enough when safety norms in hospitals are low: SC

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

Context

The Supreme Court highlighted that stringent laws protecting medical professionals exist, but they fall short without improved hospital safety standards. In the case of a trainee doctor’s rape and murder in Kolkata, the Court emphasized that enhanced punishment alone cannot address the systemic issues, including inadequate facilities and security in hospitals.

Doctors face several critical issues in their work environments, as observed by the Supreme Court:

• Inadequate Resting Facilities: Many hospitals lack proper resting areas for medical professionals, forcing them to rest in patient rooms or public spaces.
• Insufficient Duty Rooms: A shortage of separate duty rooms for male and female doctors is common.
• Lack of Basic Amenities: Interns, residents, and senior residents often do not have access to essential sanitation, nutrition, and hygiene facilities.
• Fear of Retribution: Concerns about retaliation discourage healthcare professionals from addressing deficiencies in their work environment.
• Security Deficiencies: Hospitals often have inadequate security measures, leaving staff vulnerable to aggression from patients and their attendants.
• Unrestricted Access: Patients and their families often have unrestricted access to sensitive areas, such as Intensive Care Units and doctors’ rest areas, increasing the risk of confrontation.

To address the issues faced by doctors and improve their working conditions, the following measures can be considered:

• Enhance Safety Standards: Implement comprehensive safety protocols in hospitals, including secure access to sensitive areas and increased security personnel to protect medical staff from violence.
• Upgrade Facilities: Invest in adequate resting rooms and duty facilities for medical professionals, ensuring separate areas for male and female staff and access to essential amenities like sanitation and nutrition.
• Improve Legislation: Strengthen existing laws to not only provide harsher penalties for violence but also address systemic issues, such as hospital infrastructure and staff well-being.
• Promote Reporting and Support Systems: Establish confidential channels for healthcare professionals to report safety concerns or workplace issues without fear of retaliation.
• Increase Awareness and Training: Educate hospital staff and patients about the importance of a safe working environment and the rights of medical professionals.
• Regular Audits and Assessments: Conduct frequent evaluations of hospital safety and facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards and identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

• Addressing the systemic issues faced by medical professionals requires a multifaceted approach.
• Enhancing safety standards, upgrading facilities, and improving legislation are crucial steps.
• By implementing these measures, we can ensure a safer and more supportive environment for medical professionals, ultimately improving healthcare delivery and reducing workplace violence.

Practice Question:  Discuss the systemic issues faced by medical professionals in hospitals and suggest measures to improve their working conditions and safety. (150 Words /10 marks)

 

3. How blood-based tests for cancer screening could save lives

Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 11)

Context

Blood-based cancer tests, including multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, offer a promising non-invasive method for early cancer detection. They can identify multiple cancer types from a single blood sample, potentially improving survival rates and reducing treatment costs. However, challenges such as false positives and overdiagnosis necessitate comprehensive patient support and accurate follow-up.

Blood-Based Tests for Cancer:

• Blood-based tests analyse circulating tumour DNA or cells in the blood to detect cancer at early stages.
• These tests can identify signals from up to 50 cancer types, including those lacking reliable early-screening methods.
• They offer a non-invasive, potentially cost-effective alternative to traditional screening, helping to detect cancers like ovarian and pancreatic cancer early, which can be crucial for effective treatment.
• However, they also face challenges, such as false positives and overdiagnosis, making robust post-test support and comprehensive patient guidance essential.

Importance of Blood-Based Tests:

• Blood-based cancer tests are important due to their ability to detect multiple cancers early, potentially improving survival rates and reducing treatment costs.
• They are less invasive compared to traditional methods, which can encourage higher participation in screening programs.
• By identifying cancer early, these tests can facilitate timely treatment and reduce the psychological and financial burden associated with late-stage diagnoses.
• Despite their promise, careful management of false positives and thorough patient support are essential to maximise their benefits.

4. India and Malaysia Elevate Ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Focus on Trade, Defense, and Regional Security

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Govt & Politics; Page: 06)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations

Context:

India and Malaysia have elevated their bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This marks Ibrahim’s first visit to India as Prime Minister..

Analysis of News:  

About Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA):

• It is a type of free trade pact that covers negotiation on the trade in services and investment, and other areas of economic partnership.
• CEPA also looks into the regulatory aspect of trade and encompasses an agreement covering the regulatory issues.

Economic and Defense Cooperation

• The leaders emphasized the potential for expanded economic cooperation, focusing on trade, investment, fintech, and semiconductors. They also discussed new possibilities in the defense sector and reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism and extremism.

Regional Security and International Law

• Modi underscored the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, advocating for peaceful dispute resolution in line with international laws.

Commitment to Counterterrorism

• Both leaders condemned terrorism, urging states to reject it in all forms, and agreed to work together to bring terrorists to justice.
• They also discussed the connection between terrorism and transnational organized crime.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

• The visit reflects a strengthening of ties between India and Malaysia, particularly in the context of ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific region.
• Despite past tensions, such as those arising from Malaysia’s stance on Kashmir in 2019, the two nations are committed to reinvigorating their relationship across various fields.

Challenges and Prospects in India-Malaysia Economic Ties

The business relationship between India and Malaysia faces challenges that could slow down economic growth, such as geopolitical tensions, global demand stagnation, and higher import tariffs. However, the strong trade ties between the two countries are expected to persist. Despite these challenges, India and Malaysia have formed a strong strategic partnership, with both countries being members of important global forums like the Commonwealth of Nations, NAM, G-15, and G-77, which support their cooperation. There are many opportunities to strengthen bilateral relations further. Efforts like avoiding double taxation, mutual customs assistance, improving air connectivity, and collaborations among airlines can boost trade and tourism. Additionally, factors such as a vibrant diaspora, steady GDP growth, a younger population compared to China, expected increases in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and rapid digitization are promising for future trade. The recent revival of the India-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting after 12 years shows renewed commitment to cooperation. The upcoming amendment to the Malaysia-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (MICECA), which will include new economic sectors, is aimed at reaching a trade volume of US$25 billion within the next three years. By exploring new sectors, diversifying trade, and fostering beneficial collaborations, both countries can support India’s goal of becoming the world’s third-largest economy by 2027 and strengthen ties with ASEAN.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of India and Malaysia elevating their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. How does this development impact India’s strategic interests in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific region? (250 words/15 m)

5. Joint Statement on India – Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2047076 )

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations

Context

On August 20, 2024, Malaysia’s Prime Minister visited India, marking the first meeting with India’s Prime Minister. The visit highlighted the deepening strategic partnership, focusing on trade, defence, digital tech, and cultural exchanges. Both leaders committed to enhancing cooperation across various sectors and strengthening bilateral relations.

Multipronged India – Malaysia relations:

1. Diplomatic and Political Relations

• Enhanced Strategic Partnership established in 2015, evolving into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
• Regular high-level visits and dialogues to strengthen bilateral ties.
• Agreement on frequent exchanges and joint meetings to address mutual interests and concerns.

2. Economic and Trade Cooperation

• Record-high bilateral trade of USD 19.5 billion; emphasis on sustainable trade practices.
• Collaboration on investments across multiple sectors, including digital technologies and finance.
• Support for reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to enhance trade facilitation.

3. Defence and Security

• Strong bilateral defence cooperation with ongoing dialogues, exercises, and capacity building.
• Expansion of defence industry collaboration and research and development initiatives.
• Joint stance against terrorism and transnational organised crime, with a focus on information sharing.

4. Digital and Technological Cooperation

• Signing of MoUs on Digital Technologies, including cybersecurity, 5G, and quantum computing.
• Establishment of the Malaysia-India Digital Council to guide digital collaboration.
• Promotion of local currency settlement in bilateral trade.

5. Cultural and Educational Exchanges

• Initiatives to enhance people-to-people interactions and youth exchanges.
• Cooperation in higher education with special allocations for capacity building in cybersecurity and AI.
• Establishment of academic chairs and agreements on pharmacopoeia cooperation.

6. Sustainable Development and Climate Action

• Collaboration in promoting sustainable energy and addressing climate change.
• Support for the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
• Participation in the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) for conservation efforts.

7. Tourism and Connectivity

• Initiatives to boost tourism and streamline visa regimes.
• Enhancement of air connectivity and promotion of tourism exchanges.
• Recognition of mutual contributions and efforts to increase tourism flows.

8. Multilateral and UN Cooperation

• Strengthening cooperation at UN forums, including support for a reformed UN Security Council.
• Commitment to a rules-based international system and enhanced multilateralism.

Practice Question:  Discuss the recent developments in India-Malaysia relations, highlighting key areas of cooperation and the strategic significance of their enhanced partnership. (150 Words /10 marks)

6. Last Date for declaring Exotic animals listed under Schedule IV of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 is 28 August 2024

Topic: GS3 – Environnement

(Source –https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2047102 )

Context

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has mandated that all living specimens of exotic animal species listed in Schedule IV of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 be reported and registered through the PARIVESH 2.0 portal by 28th August 2024. This is part of the Living Animal Species (Reporting and Registration) Rules, 2024.

Schedule IV of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972:

• Schedule IV of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, lists animal species that are protected but not as strictly as those in Schedules I and II.
• It includes various exotic and native species, primarily those whose trade and possession are regulated to prevent overexploitation and ensure their conservation.

What are exotic species?

Exotic species are plants or animals introduced to a new habitat outside their native range, often through human activity. They may become invasive if they outcompete local species and disrupt ecosystems. Exotic species can impact biodiversity, agriculture, and ecosystems in various ways.

• Examples of animals included in Schedule IV are hares, vultures, falcons, kingfishers, porcupines, and certain bird species.
• While hunting and trade of these animals are restricted, the penalties for violating these restrictions are less severe than for those listed in the higher schedules.
• This Schedule helps in balancing conservation efforts with the legitimate use of these species by individuals and institutions.

PARIVESH Portal

The PARIVESH (Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive, Virtuous, and Environmental Single-window Hub) portal is an online platform developed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change in India. It facilitates the submission, monitoring, and processing of proposals related to environmental clearances, forest clearances, and wildlife approvals. PARIVESH enables stakeholders to track proposals in real-time, promoting transparency and ease in environmental governance.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the various Schedules under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 in ensuring wildlife conservation in India.(150 Words /10 marks)

7. President of India confers National Geoscience Awards- 2023

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2047017 )

Topic: GS2 – Governance

Context

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the National Geoscience Awards 2023, honouring 21 geoscientists for their exceptional contributions. Prof. Dhiraj Mohan Banerjee received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his pioneering research in phosphorites and isotope geology, recognizing his decades of impactful work in the geoscience field.

National Geoscience Awards:

• The National Geoscience Awards (NGA) are prestigious honours conferred by the Ministry of Mines, to recognize outstanding contributions in the field of geosciences.
• Established in 1966, the awards aim to acknowledge the achievements of geoscientists, researchers, and professionals across various disciplines like mineral exploration, mining, environmental geology, and geo-informatics.
• The awards are presented in multiple categories, including the National Geoscience Award for Lifetime Achievement, National Geoscience Award, and National Young Geoscientist Award.

PRELIMS FACTS

1. USFDA Approves Neffy: First Nasal Spray for Anaphylaxis, Offering a New Option for Allergy Treatment

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 15)

Context:

The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) recently approved Neffy, the first-ever nasal spray for treating anaphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. Developed by ARS Pharmaceuticals, this nasal spray provides a more convenient and less intimidating alternative to traditional epinephrine injections.

Analysis of News:     

Mechanism and Significance

• Epinephrine, released by the adrenal glands, relaxes airway muscles and constricts blood vessels, countering the effects of anaphylaxis. Until now, epinephrine was only available as an injection.
• Neffy’s approval is significant as it offers a new, non-invasive option that delivers similar levels of epinephrine and effectively raises blood pressure and heart rate, crucial in treating anaphylaxis.

Impact on Low- and Middle-Income Countries

• Neffy could be transformative in countries like India, where auto-injectors are not approved, and patients must manually administer adrenaline.
• A nasal spray simplifies this process, particularly for children who fear injections and might struggle with precise dosing. Experts believe that Neffy could improve the management of severe allergic reactions in such regions.

Relevance to India

• In India, anaphylaxis is underreported, with common triggers including food, medications, and insect venom.
• The increasing prevalence of food-induced anaphylaxis, possibly due to globalization, highlights the need for accessible treatments like Neffy. The nasal spray’s ease of use positions it as a promising tool for future allergy care in India.

2. Scientists Discover First Evidence of Liquid Water Reservoir on Mars

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 15)

Context:

Scientists have discovered a reservoir of liquid water in the rocky outer crust of Mars. This is the first discovery of liquid water on the planet, though water ice has been known to exist at the Martian poles.

Analysis of News:     

• Study Details: The study titled “Liquid water in the Martian mid-crust” was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). It was conducted by researchers from the University of California San Diego using data from NASA’s Mars Insight Lander.

• Methodology: The team analyzed seismic data from the Insight Lander, which detected over 1,300 seismic waves. Using a geophysical model, they concluded that a layer of fractured igneous rock filled with liquid water lies 10-20 km deep in the Martian crust.

• Implications: The findings could enhance understanding of Mars’ water cycle and its climate evolution. Although the presence of liquid water does not confirm life, it suggests the possibility of a habitable environment, similar to life-hosting deep mines and ocean bottoms on Earth.

1. Polio case in Meghalaya is vaccine-derived, says official

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 1)

Context

A suspected case of vaccine-derived polio in a two-year-old child from Tikrikilla, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya, has prompted heightened alert. The child, diagnosed with acute flaccid paralysis, is undergoing tests. This is not wild polio but a circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) infection, which occurs in rare instances due to genetic changes in the vaccine-virus.

What is vaccine-derived polio?

• Vaccine-derived polio (VDPV) occurs when the weakened poliovirus in the oral polio vaccine (OPV) genetically mutates over time, potentially regaining the ability to cause paralysis.
• While OPV activates immunity by mimicking a natural infection, the weakened virus is shed through faeces.
• In areas with low immunisation coverage and poor sanitation, the virus can continue circulating, undergoing genetic changes.
• In rare cases, these changes result in a form capable of causing disease, known as circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV).
• VDPV is not as common as wild poliovirus but poses a risk in populations with low immunity levels.

What are the concerns regarding vaccine-derived polio?

The main concerns regarding vaccine-derived polio (VDPV) include its potential to cause outbreaks in areas with low immunisation coverage. VDPV can mutate from the weakened virus in oral polio vaccines, regaining the ability to cause paralysis.Poor sanitation and limited vaccination efforts exacerbate the risk, as the virus can circulate and evolve. These rare cases threaten polio eradication efforts, highlighting the need for robust immunisation and monitoring systems.

3. Jupiter probe to stage first lunar-earth double fly-by manoeuvre

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Context

The European Space Agency’s JUICE probe, launched in April 2023, is performing a pioneering double slingshot manoeuvre using the Moon and Earth’s gravity to adjust its trajectory towards Jupiter. This manoeuvre is crucial for conserving propellant and setting a precise path for the probe, which will study Jupiter and its moons. Successful execution will significantly enhance JUICE’s mission efficiency and its journey to the gas giant.

Significance of the Maneuver:

• The double slingshot manoeuvre involving the Moon and Earth is pivotal for the JUICE mission, as it optimises the spacecraft’s trajectory to Jupiter while conserving propellant.
• By using the Moon’s gravity to alter its course and Earth’s gravity to slow down, JUICE can follow a more efficient path to its destination.
• This innovative approach reduces the need for a larger rocket and extends the probe’s operational life.
• Successful execution of this manoeuvre is essential for setting JUICE on course to achieve its scientific goals of studying Jupiter’s atmosphere and its moons, which is crucial for understanding their potential for habitability.

JUICE (Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer):

JUICE is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission designed to study Jupiter and its three largest moons—Callisto, Europa, and Ganymede. Launched in April 2023, the probe aims to understand Jupiter’s atmosphere and the potential habitability of its moons. Equipped with advanced instruments, JUICE will perform flybys and orbit Ganymede, analysing its ice-covered ocean and magnetic field.

3. Poland and Hungary become key new drivers of Europe’s solar growth

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13)

Context

Poland and Hungary are leading Central/Eastern Europe in solar power expansion, with significant increases in solar electricity generation. By mid-2024, Poland’s output grew by 33.3% and Hungary’s by 47.7%, showcasing a shift from coal and aggressive clean energy targets. This trend exceeds the broader European solar growth rates.

Poland and Hungary Lead Solar Power Surge In Europe:

• Poland and Hungary are driving the rapid expansion of solar power in Central/Eastern Europe.
• Their growth rate is more than double that of the broader European average and surpasses the progress in Western and Southern Europe.
• Both countries are capitalising on affordable solar technology and strong government support for clean energy.
• Poland and Hungary’s aggressive push towards expanding their solar capacities aligns with their goals of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by mid-century.
• Noteworthy projects, like the 60 MW Tapolca solar farm in Hungary and a new 40 MW project in Poland, highlight their commitment to sustainable energy.

4. Moonlit midnight in France

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 15)

Context

A supermoon, also called a blue moon or ‘Sturgeon Moon,’ illuminated Europe on Monday.

What is a supermoon?

• A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth, known as perigee.
• This proximity makes the moon appear larger and brighter than usual in the night sky.

• Supermoons are often more visually striking because the moon can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter compared to a typical full moon.
• The term “supermoon” is a popular designation, though astronomically it is referred to as a perigee full moon.