PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU

23-August -2023

Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,The PIB ( Press Information Bureau )

1. One Day National Seminar on Rice Fortification.

Topic: GS3 – Food security

Context:

The Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution organized a one-day National Seminar on Rice Fortification.
The seminar aimed to address and discuss various aspects of rice fortification.

Importance of food fortification:

Nutrient Enhancement: Fortification adds essential nutrients to foods, improving their nutritional content.
Addressing Deficiencies: It combats nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to various health problems.
Wide Reach: Fortified foods can reach large populations, including vulnerable groups.
Cost-Effective: It’s a cost-effective way to improve public health compared to individual supplementation.
No Behavior Change: Fortification doesn’t require changes in eating habits or behavior.
Sustainability: It offers a sustainable solution to enhance diets and overall health.
Public Health Impact: Fortification can reduce the prevalence of deficiency-related diseases.
Customization: Nutrients and levels can be tailored to specific population needs.
Enhanced Product Value: Fortification can enhance the market value of food products.

Challenges of food fortification:

Taste and Acceptance: Fortified foods might have altered taste, texture, or appearance, which could impact consumer acceptance.
Uniform Distribution: Ensuring uniform distribution of added nutrients throughout the product can be technically challenging.
Nutrient Stability: Some added nutrients can degrade during processing, storage, or cooking, reducing their effectiveness.
Over-Fortification: Excessive fortification can lead to nutrient imbalances or toxicity, posing health risks.
Monitoring and Regulation: Effective oversight is needed to ensure accurate fortification levels and prevent unauthorized practices.
Equity and Accessibility: Fortified foods might not reach marginalized or remote populations, exacerbating health disparities.
Consumer Awareness: Lack of awareness about the benefits of fortified foods could hinder adoption.
Technical Expertise: Developing and implementing fortification technologies requires specialized knowledge and skills.
Industry Resistance: Some food producers may resist fortification due to cost, technical challenges, or market perception.

Model question: Discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with the implementation of food fortification programs in ensuring nutritional security in India. How can these challenges be effectively addressed to maximize the benefits of such programs?

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1951171

2. MoU signed between Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region and UNDP.

Topic: GS3 – Development and infrastructure

Context:

On August 22, 2023, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) entered into an MoU.

More Information about the news:

The MoU aimed to provide technical support to MDoNER for various purposes, including advancing progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), monitoring and evaluation, capacity building, supporting Aspirational districts and blocks, and deploying emerging technologies in governance.
The Ministry of DoNER has made significant strides in various sectors, including infrastructure, connectivity, health, education, climate change, and economic growth, with UNDP being a key partner in promoting data-driven decision-making.
The NER District SDG Index played a role in the creation of the PM-DevINE scheme, which funds infrastructure and social development to enhance livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and youth.
Ulrika Modéer from UNDP praised India’s efforts in expediting the development of the North Eastern Region and expressed commitment to supporting national and subnational progress on SDGs through technical assistance in localization, implementation, and monitoring of programs.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1951146

3. Development of infrastructure facilities for District and subordinate judiciary

Topic: GS2 – Indian polity and governance

Context:

A Judicial Court Complex has been constructed in Resubelpara, North Garo Hills, Meghalaya.

More about the news:

The construction is part of the efforts to develop infrastructure for District and Subordinate judiciary.
The project falls under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for Judicial Infrastructure of District & Subordinate Courts.
The initiative is led by the Department of Justice.
This infrastructure development aligns with broader efforts to improve the functioning of the judiciary system.

Importance of modernisation of district and subordinate judiciary in India:

Efficiency: Modernization streamlines processes, reducing case backlog and expediting legal proceedings.
Access to Justice: Upgraded facilities and technology enhance accessibility for both lawyers and litigants.
Transparency: Modern tools enable better case tracking and management, promoting transparency.
Technology Integration: Digitalization aids evidence presentation, case management, and communication.
Reduced Costs: Modernization can lead to cost savings in terms of time and resources.
Legal Empowerment: Upgraded facilities empower judges to deliver justice more effectively.
Rule of Law: A well-equipped judiciary strengthens the foundation of the rule of law.
Professional Development: Modernization supports ongoing training and skill development for judicial personnel.

Model question: Discuss the significance of modernizing the district and subordinate judiciary in India for ensuring effective delivery of justice. Highlight the key benefits that modernization brings to the judiciary system, and elaborate on the challenges that need to be addressed for successful implementation.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1951032