03 January 2025 : The Hindu Analysis (Daily Current Affairs)

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1. Experts on GM crop panels to declare conflict of interest

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Topic: GS2 – Governance, GS3 – Agriculture

Context

• The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has amended rules governing the selection of experts for the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), which regulates genetically modified (GM) seeds in India.

Amendment to GEAC Rules

• The updated regulations mandate that expert members must disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may interfere with their duties. Furthermore, these experts are required to implement measures that ensure that conflicts of interest do not affect the committee’s decision-making process.

Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)

GEAC (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee) is a statutory body under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

• The GEAC operates as a statutory authority under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986. Its responsibilities include evaluating activities related to hazardous microorganisms and recombinant organisms in both research and industrial contexts. The committee examines proposals for the release of genetically engineered organisms and products, including experimental field trials. Its functions encompass the approval or rejection of proposals, the conduct of risk and environmental impact assessments, and the oversight of biotechnology applications.
• The GEAC is chaired by a senior official from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) and co-chaired by a representative from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), comprising scientists, environmentalists, and policymakers to ensure a comprehensive range of expertise in addressing GMOs and associated technologies.

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Conflict of Interest Provisions

• Members of the committee with any direct or indirect connections to topics being discussed during meetings are obligated to disclose these associations beforehand. Unless explicitly requested by the committee, such members are expected to recuse themselves from those discussions. Additionally, appointed members must submit a declaration outlining their professional affiliations over the past decade prior to their induction into the committee.

Supreme Court’s Order on GM Crops

• In July 2023, the Supreme Court instructed the Centre to establish a national policy regarding GM crops. The court issued a divided ruling concerning the Centre's 2022 conditional approval for the environmental release of GM mustard, emphasizing the necessity for a structured approach to managing conflict of interest situations.

Amendment to GEAC Rules

• The newly implemented regulations require expert members of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) to disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may affect their responsibilities. It is incumbent upon these experts to take proactive steps to mitigate any influence that such conflicts might have on the committee's decision-making processes. Established under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986, the GEAC is a statutory authority responsible for evaluating activities that involve hazardous microorganisms and recombinant DNA in both research and industrial settings. The committee is tasked with reviewing proposals for the release of genetically engineered organisms and products, including experimental field trials.

Allegations of Conflict of Interest

• Concerns regarding conflicts of interest in the regulation of GM crops emerged in 2013 when the activist organization Coalition for GM-Free India raised allegations against a member of the Technical Expert Committee appointed by the court, citing that this individual had ties to an organization funded by Monsanto, a major player in the biotechnology sector.

Conflict of interest and its potential implications:

• Bias in Decision-Making: Experts harboring conflicts of interest may skew their recommendations in favor of certain companies or technologies, thereby jeopardizing the impartiality of the decision-making process.
• Compromised Public Trust: The failure to disclose conflicts of interest can lead to a breakdown of public confidence in regulatory bodies and their decisions, particularly in sensitive areas concerning GMOs.
• Regulatory Weakness: When conflicts remain undisclosed, this can result in inadequate regulations, prioritizing private interests over the well-being of public health and environmental safety.
• Legal and Ethical Concerns: Conflicts of interest can lead to significant legal challenges or ethical breaches, which in turn can undermine the integrity of the regulatory framework.
• Economic Impacts: Decisions influenced by bias may favor certain stakeholders, resulting in the promotion of products that could jeopardize public health or environmental safety.

Practice Question: Explore the potential repercussions of conflicts of interest in the decision-making processes of regulatory bodies such as the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), particularly concerning the governance of genetically modified organisms in India. (250 Words / 15 marks)

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2. Govt. report reveals stark infrastructure gap in Indian schools

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Education

Context

• Recent data from the UDISE+ initiative reveals substantial deficiencies in critical infrastructure such as electricity, drinking water, toilets, and facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities in Indian schools.

Disabled-Friendly Facilities

• A mere 3.37 lakh government schools are equipped with accessible toilets for disabled students, underscoring the insufficient accommodations for differently-abled individuals. The state of these facilities is notably inadequate in many schools throughout the country.

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Conclusion

This information underscores the pressing infrastructure challenges faced by government-run schools, which significantly impact both the quality of education and the overall well-being of students.

Practice Question: Examine the current status of fundamental infrastructure facilities such as electricity, drinking water, and toilets in schools across India, using the latest UDISE+ data as a reference. Discuss the implications for education and outline the measures required to address these infrastructure gaps. (250 Words / 15 Marks)

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3. Obesity: soft core of an epidemic of non-communicable diseases

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

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health

Context

• This article highlights the critical role of obesity as a major factor in the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which significantly heightens the risk of developing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and specific cancers. Furthermore, obesity adversely affects overall quality of life.

Obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

• Obesity is recognized as a chronic condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation, which poses serious health risks. Its presence is linked to an increased likelihood of various NCDs, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. Beyond medical implications, obesity also detrimentally influences quality of life, affecting sleep patterns, mobility, and mental health. Hence, obesity is increasingly regarded as a central component of the NCD epidemic, compounding existing health issues and contributing to premature mortality.

Global and Childhood Obesity

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one in eight individuals globally are classified as obese, while one in three are considered overweight. Since 1990, the prevalence of adult obesity has doubled, and the rates among adolescents have quadrupled. Currently, 37 million children under the age of five are overweight, alongside 390 million children and adolescents aged 5 to 19, of which 160 million are obese. In the context of India, childhood obesity is an escalating concern, placing the nation second in the world for the highest number of obese children. Contributing factors include reduced physical activity, consumption of high-calorie food and sugary beverages, alongside genetic predispositions.

The Indian Scenario

• In India, approximately 13% of the population is affected by obesity, a figure that surpasses many other middle-income nations. Issues such as "normal weight obesity" and "sarcopenic obesity," characterized by a high fat-to-low muscle mass ratio, are increasingly prevalent. Notably, many individuals with a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) are experiencing increased waist circumference, affecting 65% of both men and women. The recommended waist circumference for optimal health is less than 90 cm for men and 80 cm for women.

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Obesity and Its Impact

• Globally, obesity accounts for 3.4 million deaths each year, with India positioned as the third highest nation in obesity-related mortality after China and the United States. In addition to the medical costs associated with obesity, economic consequences include decreased productivity, increased absenteeism in the workplace, and premature death. The psychological ramifications are equally severe, often resulting in diminished self-esteem, mood disorders, and negative body image.

Addressing Obesity

• Weight loss plays a crucial role in preventing and managing obesity-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Even a modest reduction in weight can lead to significant health benefits, including lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and a decreased risk of diabetes.
• Current treatments for obesity encompass newer medications and bariatric surgery; however, these options often come with substantial costs and potential side effects. Prevention and treatment strategies also emphasize lifestyle modifications, such as engaging in regular physical activity and steering clear of unhealthy dietary choices.
• Health recommendations suggest aiming for 6,000 to 8,000 steps daily, opting for stairs instead of elevators, walking instead of driving for short trips, and minimizing screen time. Employers can facilitate weight management by establishing walking targets for their employees, while individuals should regularly track their weight and waist circumference.

Conclusion

Tackling obesity necessitates a comprehensive approach, involving awareness, advocacy, medical interventions, and lifestyle changes. Simple strategies like consistent exercise, balanced nutrition, and reducing sedentary activities can significantly aid in managing obesity and its associated NCDs.

Practice Question: Discuss the role of obesity in the rise of non-communicable diseases. How can India address the growing obesity epidemic to improve public health? (150 Words /10 marks)

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4. DAP (di-ammonium phosphate) BEYOND NBS SUBSIDY

Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy

Context

• This article examines the Indian government’s recent decision to extend a subsidy of ₹3,500 per tonne on di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser. This initiative aims to manage increasing costs and ensure that prices remain viable for farmers.

Analysis of the news:

About Fertilizer subsidy in India

• The fertilizer subsidy serves as a crucial financial aid from the government, designed to make fertilizers more affordable for farmers, particularly those who are small and marginal. Fertilizers play a vital role in boosting agricultural productivity; however, their high cost can be prohibitive. To alleviate this financial strain, the Union Budget for 2024 has allocated ₹164,000 crore towards the fertilizer subsidy.

Extension of Subsidy on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP)

• The Centre has announced an extension of the special subsidy of ₹3,500 per tonne on DAP for an additional year, effective from January 1, 2025. Initially meant to conclude on December 31, 2024, this extension seeks to prevent increases in farmgate prices for one of India’s most widely used fertilisers. This decision is particularly notable in light of the rupee's depreciation against the US dollar, which has aggravated cost pressures.

Impact of Fixed Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs)

• While DAP and other non-urea fertilisers may officially be decontrolled, the government has established informal caps on MRPs to protect farmers from unexpected price surges. Currently, the MRP for a 50-kg bag of DAP is fixed at ₹1,350, similar price caps apply to other fertilisers such as 20:20:0:13 and muriate of potash. However, the sharp decline in the rupee's value, combined with escalating import costs, presents challenges for fertiliser companies in maintaining these price caps.

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Economic Pressures on Fertiliser Companies

• At present, the landed cost of imported DAP has risen to ₹54,160 per tonne, markedly higher than the ₹52,960 per tonne recorded three months earlier. Considering additional expenses such as customs duties, port handling, and dealer margins, the overall cost surpasses ₹65,000 per tonne. Meanwhile, the combination of government subsidies and the capped MRP yields only ₹52,411 per tonne, creating a significant financial gap that renders imports impractical without further assistance from the government.

Government Compensation and Fiscal Cost

• To address potential industry losses, the government has sanctioned full compensation for DAP imports priced above $559.71 per tonne for the period from September 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of the subsidy scheme is compromised by the rupee’s depreciation to ₹85.7 against the dollar. By extending the ₹3,500 per tonne subsidy, the government aims to minimize the potential fiscal burden, estimated at ₹6,475 crore, and reduce the necessity for an MRP increase by fertiliser companies.

Challenges in Fertiliser Availability

• As of mid-December, stock levels of DAP and complex fertilisers are reported to be below those of the previous year. It is imperative for the government to ensure a steady supply of both finished products and raw materials to avert potential shortages during the upcoming kharif season. Inadequate supplies could significantly hinder agricultural productivity.

conclusion:

• while the extension of the subsidy provides some immediate relief, there are significant long-term challenges that must be addressed, including exchange rate volatility, the viability of imports, and the need for stock replenishment to stabilize the fertilizer sector.
• Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) is among the most widely utilized fertilizers worldwide, supplying vital nutrients—nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)—essential for plant development. It ranks as the second most commonly used fertilizer in India, following urea. DAP is particularly rich in phosphorus, which is crucial for root establishment and development. Without adequate phosphorus, plants may struggle to reach their optimal growth or could experience delayed maturation.
• Highly soluble, DAP quickly dissolves in soil, making phosphate and ammonium readily available to plants. Beyond its primary role in agriculture, DAP serves several additional functions: it acts as a fire retardant when mixed with other materials, is utilized in various industrial processes such as metal finishing, supports yeast fermentation in winemaking, aids in cheese culture production from milk, and functions as a flux for soldering metals like tin, copper, brass, and zinc.

Practice Question: How can the government ensure the fertilizer subsidy program remains environmentally sustainable while supporting the economic needs of farmers? (150 words/10 marks)

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Prelims Facts

1. RTO official’s Mongolia trip to click Pallas’s cat find its way into textbook

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)

Context

• The wildlife photography expedition undertaken by Shefiq Basheer Ahammed in 2017, which showcased unique species such as the Pallas’s cat, has led to the creation of a chapter for a Class 7 CBSE textbook.

Species in news:

Pallas’s Cat

• This small wildcat, indigenous to Central Asia, is notable for its dense silvery-grey fur, flat face, and rounded ears.
• It inhabits rocky steppes and arid deserts, thriving at altitudes reaching up to 5,000 meters.
• Generally solitary and elusive, this species exhibits nocturnal behavior, primarily being active during the night.
• Its diet consists of small mammals, birds, and insects.
• Feeds on small mammals, birds, and insects.
• Conservation status: Near Threatened (IUCN Red List), primarily due to habitat destruction and hunting pressures.

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Bactrian Camel

• These double-humped camels are remarkably adapted to endure the frigid conditions of Central Asia’s deserts.
• Bactrian camels demonstrate resilience to extreme temperatures, surviving ranges from -40°C to 40°C.
• Recognized for their thick fur, they store fat in their humps to provide energy.
• Domesticated varieties are utilized for transport, milk, and wool production, while wild Bactrian camels are classified as critically endangered.

Przewalski’s Horse

• This endangered wild horse, indigenous to the steppes of Central Asia, is characterized by its stocky build, a short mane, and absence of a forelock.
• Representing the last truly wild horse species, it has undergone reintroduction efforts after nearly facing extinction.
• Przewalski’s horse typically inhabits grasslands and the peripheries of deserts, foraging primarily on grasses.
• Conservation initiatives emphasize captive breeding and rewilding programs.

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2. Indian researchers develop injectable hydrogel for targeted cancer treatment

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Context

• A collaborative team from IIT-Guwahati and Bose Institute, Kolkata, has pioneered an innovative injectable hydrogel aimed at localized cancer treatment.

Analysis of the news:

• This hydrogel is engineered to deliver anti-cancer medications directly to tumor sites, effectively minimizing the systemic side effects often linked to conventional chemotherapy. Comprising ultra-short peptides that are insoluble in biological fluids, the hydrogel maintains its localized presence at the injection site.

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• Importantly, the hydrogel is responsive to elevated levels of glutathione (GSH), a molecule prevalent in tumors. It facilitates the controlled release of drugs, specifically targeting the tumor while protecting healthy cells from potentially harmful effects.
• This groundbreaking development is poised to transform breast cancer therapy by providing a more precise treatment approach. The research findings are detailed in the journal *Materials Horizons*, published by the Royal Society of Chemistry.

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3. Why has Trump called the Panama treaty ‘foolish’?

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

Context

• President-elect Trump has expressed criticism regarding the significant transit fees imposed on U.S. vessels by Panama. He has even suggested the possibility of reclaiming control over the Panama Canal, a territory that was transferred to Panama following the 1999 Torrijos-Carter Treaties.

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Panama Canal Treaty (Torrijos-Carter Treaties, 1977):

• Signed: September 7, 1977, between the United States and Panama.
• Main Provisions:
• Transfer of Control: The United States committed to transferring full control of the Panama Canal to Panama by December 31, 1999.
• Canal Zone: The United States relinquished its control over the Panama Canal Zone, which had been under U.S. sovereignty since 1903.
• U.S. Rights: The United States retained the right to intervene militarily to ensure the neutrality of the canal, as established by the Permanent Neutrality Treaty.
• Operation and Management: The treaty designated the Panama Canal as neutral, guaranteeing access for vessels from all nations without bias.
• Neutrality Clause: The Panama Canal was declared neutral, ensuring access for ships of all nations without discrimination.
• Completion: The transition of control was finalized on December 31, 1999.

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4. Uttarakhand Launches Winter Char Dham Circuit: Boosting Tourism Amid Environmental Concerns

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 16)

Context

• The government of Uttarakhand has initiated the Winter Char Dham circuit with the intention of promoting off-season tourism. However, this move has sparked discussions regarding its potential environmental impact and the need for effective infrastructure management.

Analysis of the news:

Introduction to Winter Char Dham

• Uttarakhand’s Winter Char Dham circuit is designed to draw pilgrims and tourists during the off-peak months. This initiative centers around the winter locations of four revered Hindu shrines—Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—which are temporarily relocated to lower-altitude temples in response to heavy snowfall. Preliminary statistics indicate a moderate uptake, with 15,314 pilgrims visiting these winter sites by late December.

Economic Significance of Winter Tourism

• The Char Dham pilgrimage plays a crucial role in sustaining Uttarakhand’s economy, generating over ₹200 crore daily in peak season. The state government aims to extend these economic gains into the winter months by promoting lesser-known tourist spots near the winter shrines and leveraging the allure of “sun tourism” during the typically hazy winters of North India.

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Environmental and Management Concerns

Despite its economic promises, the initiative presents significant challenges that environmentalists and activists are keen to address:

• Overcrowding and Degradation: A surge in visitors could compromise the fragile mountain ecosystems, leading to infrastructure deterioration and a loss of the sacred character of these sites.
• Wildlife Disturbance: Increased winter tourism poses risks to vulnerable species, such as snow leopards and mountain sheep, which descend to lower altitudes in search of food.
• Safety and Sustainability: The difficult terrain and severe weather conditions call for the implementation of thorough safety protocols and sustainable management strategies.

Way Forward

To ensure the success and sustainability of the Winter Char Dham initiative, it is imperative for the government to tackle environmental challenges through the following measures:

1. Conducting a detailed carrying capacity study.
2. Enforcing stringent regulations to mitigate ecological damage.
3. Advancing eco-friendly infrastructure and responsible tourism practices.

By taking a balanced approach, Uttarakhand can enhance its winter tourism sector while safeguarding its ecological and cultural integrity.

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5. Air India Introduces In-Flight Wi-Fi: A First for Domestic Airlines in India

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 16)

Context

• Air India has made a significant advancement by introducing Wi-Fi connectivity on select domestic and international flights, marking it as the first Indian airline to provide such a service.

Analysis of the news:

Technologies Behind In-Flight Connectivity

In-flight Internet relies on two main technologies:

• Air-to-Ground (ATG): This system utilizes cellular towers positioned on the ground to transmit signals. While effective over land, it has limitations over large bodies of water or in remote areas.
• Satellite-Based: This technology transmits signals via satellites, offering extensive coverage and reliability, particularly over oceans and isolated regions. Both systems necessitate specialized antennas and equipment, with satellite-based connectivity typically preferred for global reach.

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• Cost Implications: The installation of Wi-Fi equipment represents a considerable cost for airlines, particularly when retrofitting older aircraft. Although Air India is currently providing complimentary Wi-Fi, this approach may evolve, as airlines worldwide often implement charges for such services or offer them as incentives for premium passengers. For Air India, this service could potentially develop into an auxiliary revenue stream.
• Future Prospects: With a growing demand for in-flight connectivity, Air India’s initiative signifies an important move towards modernizing its fleet and enhancing passenger experience. Nevertheless, various challenges, including high implementation costs, slower connectivity speeds relative to terrestrial networks, and the management of pricing strategies, are critical factors that need careful consideration for sustainable long-term execution.

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