PM IAS NOV 29 UPSC CURRENT EVENTS

Biomedical Waste Management

Source: The Hindu – Stigma of HIV and birth of biomedical waste regulations

Syllabus context: GS III Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation.

Context

The HIV epidemic and incidents such as the “Syringe Tide” served as significant wake-up calls, highlighting the dangers associated with improper biomedical waste disposal. These events led to both global and national reforms aimed at safeguarding public health and the environment.

Historical Background

1. HIV Epidemic (1983): The identification of HIV by Luc Montagnier and Robert Gallo caused global panic, underscoring the health risks posed by contaminated medical waste.
2. Syringe Tide (1987): Medical waste, including syringes, washed up on U.S. beaches, leading to public outrage and calls for stricter regulations on medical waste disposal.
3. India’s Situation: The first case of HIV in India was reported in 1986, and the lack of biomedical waste management laws exposed significant gaps in the system, affecting public health.

Global and National Responses

1. United States:
   • Medical Waste Tracking Act (1988): This act categorized hospital waste as hazardous and introduced systematic protocols for its handling and disposal, providing a regulatory framework for other nations to follow.
2. India:
   • Judicial Intervention: In the case of Dr. B.L. Wadehra vs. Union of India (1996), the Supreme Court condemned the mismanagement of waste in Delhi, prompting nationwide reforms.
   • Biomedical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules (1998): The first comprehensive legislation in India recognizing biomedical waste as hazardous and empowering pollution control boards to regulate its disposal.
   • Amendments and Updates: The rules were strengthened in 2016 and again in 2020 to incorporate technological advancements.

Key Features of India’s Biomedical Waste Management

1. Waste Segregation and Color-Coding:
   
   • Mandatory segregation at the source, with distinct categories of waste.
   • Use of color-coded containers (yellow, red, blue, white) for easy identification and proper disposal.
2. Treatment and Disposal Technologies:
   
   • Incineration: For infectious and pathological waste.
   • Autoclaving and Microwaving: For disinfecting sharps and other types of waste.
   • Chemical Disinfection: For liquid waste like blood and bodily fluids.
   • Deep Burial: In rural and resource-limited areas where incineration is not feasible.
3. Occupational Safety:
   
   • Personal protective equipment (PPE) for waste handlers.
   • Regular safety training programs for healthcare workers.
   • Immunization against diseases like Hepatitis B for those handling infectious waste.
4. Monitoring and Compliance:
   
   • Central and State Pollution Control Boards are tasked with monitoring waste generation and disposal practices.
   • Healthcare facilities must obtain authorization, submit annual reports, and undergo surprise inspections to ensure adherence to rules.
5. Mandatory Reporting and Record-Keeping:
   
   • Healthcare facilities are required to maintain records of waste generated and treated, with barcode tracking systems employed in some regions to improve accountability.
6. Common Biomedical Waste Treatment Facilities (CBWTFs):
   
   • Shared treatment facilities that help smaller healthcare units manage waste effectively, reducing operational costs.

Limitations in Biomedical Waste Management in India

1. Inadequate Infrastructure:
   
   • Limited treatment facilities, especially in rural and remote areas, leading to improper disposal practices.
2. Weak Enforcement and Compliance:
   
   • Poor adherence to waste segregation and disposal protocols, with lax enforcement by authorities.
3. Occupational Hazards:
   
   • Insufficient training and lack of proper PPE expose healthcare workers to health risks.
4. Low Public Awareness:
   
   • Limited knowledge among the general public and informal waste handlers about the risks of biomedical waste and safe disposal practices.
5. Inefficiency in Common Treatment Facilities:
   
   • Overburdened CBWTFs and uneven distribution hinder effective waste management in some regions.

Way Forward

1. Strengthen Infrastructure in Rural Areas:
   
   • Expand the establishment of CBWTFs in underserved areas to improve waste management.
   • Example: Tamil Nadu’s model of CBWTFs catering to multiple smaller healthcare units can be replicated across India.
2. Enhance Monitoring and Accountability:
   
   • Implement real-time tracking systems, using barcodes and GPS, to ensure compliance.
   • Example: Kerala’s Integrated Biomedical Waste Management Monitoring System (IBWMMS) effectively tracks waste from generation to disposal.
3. Improve Capacity Building and Occupational Safety:
   
   • Regular training for healthcare workers, mandatory PPE usage, and immunization programs for waste handlers to reduce health risks.
   • Example: Mumbai’s municipal hospitals have incorporated safety training and PPE provision into their waste management protocols.
4. Promote Technological Innovations:
   
   • Encourage the adoption of eco-friendly technologies like plasma pyrolysis and waste-to-energy plants for non-recyclable waste.
   • Example: AIIMS, New Delhi, employs advanced disinfection and autoclaving methods to reduce environmental impact.
5. Raise Public Awareness and Community Participation:
   
   • Conduct public campaigns to educate the community and informal waste handlers on biomedical waste management and its risks.
   • Example: Extend the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to include biomedical waste awareness and disposal practices.

Conclusion

The global and national response to the HIV epidemic and events like the Syringe Tide has underscored the critical importance of effective biomedical waste management. India’s legislative reforms since the 1990s reflect the country’s commitment to addressing this challenge. Despite persistent gaps, continued reforms and a concerted effort to strengthen infrastructure, awareness, and enforcement can lead to a significant improvement in biomedical waste management. As the experience shows, crises often act as catalysts for transformative reforms.

India-Bangladesh Relations

Source: Indian Express – Monk arrest: India flags safety of Hindus, Dhaka says it is deeply ‘hurt’

Syllabus context: GS II International Relations 

Context

India has expressed deep concern over the arrest of a Hindu monk on sedition charges in Bangladesh and urged authorities to ensure the safety and security of minorities, including Hindus, in the neighboring country.

Historical Context

1. Pre-Partition Bonds: India and Bangladesh share deep cultural and linguistic ties that were disrupted by the Partition of 1947, resulting in large-scale migration and family separations.
2. 1971 Liberation War: India played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan, providing military and moral support. This laid the foundation for strong bilateral relations.
3. Post-Independence Cooperation: India was the first country to recognize Bangladesh, fostering deep people-to-people connections.
4. Shared Sacrifices: Both nations commemorate shared historical events, such as Vijay Diwas, symbolizing mutual respect and historical solidarity.

Areas of Cooperation

1. Economic Partnership: Bangladesh is India’s largest trade partner in South Asia, with bilateral trade reaching $18.2 billion in 2021-22.
2. Connectivity: Restoration of rail links and inland waterways, including the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWTT) and the Agartala-Akhaura rail link, enhance cross-border integration.
3. Development Assistance: India has extended $8 billion in Lines of Credit (LoCs) to Bangladesh, primarily for infrastructure development.
4. Cultural Exchange: Institutions such as the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) promote shared cultural heritage and people-to-people ties.
5. Defence Collaboration: Joint military exercises like CORPAT and the Bangosagar naval drills have strengthened security cooperation.

Challenges in Bilateral Relations

1. Water Sharing: Disputes over rivers such as the Teesta and Brahmaputra remain unresolved, affecting livelihoods and trust.
2. Illegal Immigration: Cross-border migration creates socio-economic and political challenges for bordering Indian states.
3. China’s Influence: Bangladesh’s growing engagement with China, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), poses strategic concerns for India.
4. Terrorism and Insurgency: Cross-border movements of insurgent groups and the alleged presence of extremist elements impact regional security.
5. Trade Barriers: Non-tariff barriers, such as lengthy customs procedures and regulatory hurdles, hinder the full potential of trade.

Way Forward

1. Resolve Water Disputes: Prioritize agreements on rivers like Teesta through sustained dialogue and time-bound solutions.
2. Enhance Connectivity: Expand road, rail, and coastal networks to boost economic and cultural integration.
3. Energy Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships in clean energy and expedite initiatives like the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.
4. Counter China’s Influence: Increase technological, financial, and strategic assistance to Bangladesh to balance regional dynamics.
5. Address Refugee Issues: Work on a regional framework through SAARC for managing refugee crises collaboratively.

Conclusion

India and Bangladesh share a deep-rooted relationship grounded in history, culture, and mutual interests. By addressing existing challenges and fostering enhanced cooperation, both nations can further strengthen their partnership, contributing to regional stability and prosperity.

Wildfire Pollution: A Global Challenge

Source: Indian Express – New study: more than 1.5 million die each year from wild/bush fire pollution

Syllabus context: GS III Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation. Disaster and management 

Context

Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that spread rapidly in natural or cultural landscapes, including forests, grasslands, or agricultural areas. They pose significant environmental, economic, and public health challenges due to their ability to release large quantities of pollutants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), impacting air quality over vast regions.

Causes of Wildfires:

1. Natural Causes:
   
   • Lightning Strikes: Often a major natural trigger for wildfires.
   • Volcanic Eruptions: Spewing hot materials that ignite surrounding vegetation.
   • Prolonged Droughts: Create flammable conditions in vegetation.
2. Human-Induced Causes:
   
   • Agricultural Practices: Unregulated stubble burning.
   • Negligence: Discarded cigarettes, unattended campfires, and accidental ignitions.
   • Arson: Deliberate setting of fires.
   • Poor Forest Management: Inefficient firebreak systems or unchecked undergrowth.
3. Role of Climate Change:
   
   • Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns exacerbate fire risks by creating drier, more combustible conditions.

Types of Wildfires

1. Ground Fires:
   
   • Burn organic matter below the surface (e.g., peat or decayed vegetation).
   • Example: Peat fires in Indonesia.
   • Characteristics: Slow-burning, produce significant carbon emissions, challenging to detect and extinguish.
2. Surface Fires:
   
   • Burn vegetation like grass, shrubs, and leaves.
   • Example: Fires in savannas or grasslands.
   • Characteristics: Spread quickly, relatively easier to control, and can vary in intensity.
3. Crown Fires:
   
   • Burn tree canopies, often spreading through dense forests.
   • Example: Wildfires in coniferous forests of Canada or the U.S.
   • Characteristics: Extremely intense, fast-spreading, and difficult to control.
4. Ladder Fires:
   
   • Surface fires climbing vegetation to reach canopies, transitioning into crown fires.
   • Example: Fires in mixed forests with dense undergrowth.
   • Characteristics: Serve as a “ladder” for fire escalation, intensifying destruction.
5. Spot Fires:
   
   • Embers transported by wind ignite new fires far from the main blaze.
   • Example: Fires driven by windy conditions near large wildfires.
   • Characteristics: Cause unpredictable and rapid fire spread over large areas.

Global and Local Impacts of Wildfire Pollution

Key Findings from Studies:

• Global Mortality: Wildfire pollution contributes to over 1.53 million deaths annually due to cardiovascular (450,000 deaths) and respiratory diseases (220,000 deaths).
• India’s Scenario: Around 1.2 lakh deaths annually are linked to wildfire pollution (2000–2019), amounting to 25.54 lakh deaths over two decades.

Geographic and Socio-Economic Disparities:

1. Low-Income Countries: Respiratory illness-related deaths from wildfires are four times higher in low-income nations than in high-income countries.
2. Most Affected Nations: China, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Indonesia, and Nigeria.

Role of PM2.5 and Climate Change:

1. Airborne Risks: Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone travel hundreds of kilometers, impacting large populations.
2. Climate Feedback Loop: Wildfires worsen global warming by releasing carbon emissions, creating a vicious cycle of increasing wildfire frequency and intensity.

Preventive Measures and Observations in India

1. Forest Fires in Maharashtra:
   
   • Fires often start from agricultural burns and spread to forests.
   • Preventive Measures: Fire awareness campaigns and deployment of fire watchers.
2. Impact of Local Emissions:
   
   • Large-scale fires release black carbon and fine particles, harming health, air quality, and climate stability.

Outlook and Recommendations

1. Address Increasing Risk:
   
   • With climate change intensifying wildfire risks, comprehensive strategies are required to mitigate impacts on public health, ecosystems, and the climate.
2. Policy Recommendations:
   
   • Preventive Measures:
     • Encourage controlled agricultural burns and stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations.
     • Expand fire awareness programs to educate communities in fire-prone areas.
   • Improve Forest Management:
     • Strengthen firebreaks, early warning systems, and community participation in forest monitoring.
   • Air Quality Management:
     • Install more air quality monitoring stations and improve public health advisory systems.
   • Address Climate Change:
     • Transition to clean energy systems and promote afforestation to reduce the carbon footprint.
   • International Collaboration:
     • Share best practices, satellite data, and resources for fire monitoring and management.

Conclusion

Wildfires are a growing global threat, with devastating impacts on public health, ecosystems, and the climate. The 1.53 million annual deaths attributed to wildfire pollution underline the urgent need for action. India, facing significant wildfire-related health risks, must adopt a holistic approach, integrating preventive measures, effective forest management, and climate adaptation strategies. By addressing these challenges, the country can mitigate the adverse effects of wildfires and ensure sustainable development.

Japanese Encephalitis (JE): A Public Health Concern

Source: NDTV – Delhi Reports ‘Isolated’ Case Of Japanese Encephalitis

Syllabus context: GS III Science and Technology 

Context

An isolated case of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) was recently reported in the national capital, highlighting the need for awareness and vigilance against this zoonotic disease.

About Japanese Encephalitis

Definition:
Japanese Encephalitis is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV), a member of the Flavivirus genus. It is a leading cause of viral encephalitis in Asia.

Epidemiology:

• Common in rural and peri-urban areas of Asia, particularly during monsoon seasons when mosquito breeding is at its peak.
• The disease is endemic in several South and Southeast Asian countries, including India, Nepal, and China.

Transmission

• Vectors: Transmitted primarily by Culex mosquitoes, particularly those of the Vishnui group.
• Reservoir Hosts:
  • Amplifying Hosts: Pigs and birds of the Ardeidae family (e.g., cattle egrets, pond herons).
  • These animals serve as the natural reservoirs of the virus.
• Human Infection: Humans are dead-end hosts, and there is no human-to-human transmission.

Clinical Features

1. Asymptomatic Cases: Most infections (approximately 99%) are mild or asymptomatic.
2. Symptomatic Cases: Severe cases manifest as acute encephalitis syndrome (AES), affecting the brain.
   • Early Symptoms:
     • Fever
     • Headache
     • Vomiting
   • Neurological Symptoms:
     • Confusion
     • Seizures
     • Paralysis
     • Coma in severe cases
   • Complications:
     • Permanent brain damage
     • High fatality rate in untreated cases

Prevention and Control

1. Vaccination:
   • The most effective preventive measure, especially in endemic regions.
   • India introduced two doses of the JE vaccine under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) in 2013.
2. Vector Control:
   • Mosquito control measures, including:
     • Elimination of breeding sites.
     • Use of insecticide-treated nets and repellents.
   • Public awareness campaigns during monsoon seasons.
3. Personal Protection:
   • Wearing protective clothing.
   • Avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity.
4. Environmental Measures:
   • Managing agricultural practices to reduce stagnant water.
   • Use of larvicides in water bodies.

Treatment

• Supportive Care:
  • Early diagnosis and symptomatic management are critical.
  • Includes intensive care to manage seizures, hydration, and neurological complications.
• No Specific Antiviral Therapy: There is currently no antiviral treatment available for JE.

Public Health Impact

1. Burden in India:
   • India reports a significant number of JE and AES cases, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Assam.
   • Children are disproportionately affected due to lower immunity.
2. Economic and Social Costs:
   • JE imposes a heavy economic burden on affected families and the healthcare system.
   • Survivors often face long-term disabilities, impacting their quality of life.

Way Forward

1. Strengthen Immunisation Programs:
   • Increase vaccine coverage in endemic regions, especially among children.
2. Enhanced Surveillance:
   • Strengthen real-time monitoring systems for early detection and containment.
3. Community Engagement:
   • Awareness campaigns to educate communities on preventive measures and early symptom recognition.
4. Integrated Vector Management (IVM):
   • A holistic approach involving multiple sectors, including health, agriculture, and local governance, to combat mosquito-borne diseases.

Japanese Encephalitis underscores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, emphasizing the need for a “One Health” approach to effectively tackle zoonotic diseases.

National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF): A Sustainable Agricultural Initiative

Source: Indian Express – All about the central government scheme to promote natural farming

Syllabus context: GS III Issues related to Direct and Indirect Farm Subsidies and Minimum Support Prices

Context

The Union Cabinet recently approved the launch of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. This mission aims to promote natural farming practices across the country in a structured, mission-mode approach.

Understanding Natural Farming

Definition:
Natural farming is a chemical-free farming system relying on inputs derived from livestock and plant resources. It applies ecological principles to agricultural practices, promoting biodiversity and sustainability while reducing external inputs.

Natural Farming in India:

• Zero-Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF): Popularized by Subhash Palekar, ZBNF is one of the most well-known models of natural farming in India.
• Global Models: Natural farming practices exist worldwide but are customized to local ecosystems and resources.

Overview of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

Background:

• Builds on the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP), launched under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY).
• Initially promoted under the Namami Gange scheme, with efforts to establish natural farming along the Ganga River.
• Announced in the 2024-25 Budget, targeting one crore farmers for natural farming adoption.

Objectives:

1. Promote sustainable, chemical-free agriculture.
2. Build infrastructure for training, certification, and branding of natural produce.
3. Ensure large-scale adoption of natural farming practices.

Current Status:

• Coverage: 22 lakh hectares of farmland under natural farming with 34 lakh farmers engaged.
• Targets:
  • Expand to an additional 7.5 lakh hectares.
  • Establish 15,000 clusters in willing Gram Panchayats.
  • Train and support 1 crore farmers by 2026.

Implementation Framework

1. Infrastructure Development:
   
   • Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs):
     • Establish 10,000 BRCs to provide natural farming inputs.
     • Priority for areas practicing natural farming through initiatives like Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives.
2. Model Demonstration Farms:
   
   • Develop 2,000 farms at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), agricultural universities, and farmers’ fields.
3. Training and Capacity Building:
   
   • Train 18.75 lakh farmers in preparing natural inputs such as Jeevamrit and Beejamrit.
   • Deploy 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/Community Resource Persons (CRPs) for mobilization and guidance.
4. Certification and Branding:
   
   • Simplify certification processes for chemical-free produce.
   • Establish a single national brand for natural products to enhance market access.

Budgetary and Operational Distinctions

• Higher Allocations: Total outlay of ₹2,481 crore (Central share: ₹1,584 crore; State share: ₹897 crore) until FY 2025-26.
• Broader Coverage: Aims to benefit over one crore farmers with dedicated clusters and infrastructure.
• Scientific Support: Develops standards for natural farming practices, ensuring credibility and adoption.

Need for the NMNF

1. Economic Justification:
   
   • Reduces input costs by eliminating dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
   • Enhances profitability through lower investments and better market prospects for organic produce.
2. Environmental Benefits:
   
   • Improves soil health, increases fertility, and enhances biodiversity.
   • Reduces climate vulnerabilities like droughts and floods by building soil resilience.
   • Lowers carbon emissions and promotes eco-friendly agricultural practices.
3. Health and Nutritional Impact:
   
   • Provides chemical-free, nutritious food.
   • Reduces health risks associated with pesticide exposure for both farmers and consumers.
4. Intergenerational Equity:
   
   • Protects natural resources for future generations by promoting sustainable practices.
5. Addressing Fertilizer Overuse:
   
   • Targets 228 districts with fertilizer usage above the national average (138 kg/hectare), including areas with over 200 kg/hectare application rates.

Key Features and Innovations

1. Cluster-Based Approach:
   
   • Formation of 15,000 clusters for focused implementation.
2. Bio-Input Resource Centers:
   
   • Provides ready-to-use natural inputs, ensuring uniform adoption of practices.
3. Integration with Existing Schemes:
   
   • Supports goals of Namami Gange, PM-Kisan, and other sustainable initiatives.
4. Farmer Empowerment:
   
   • Comprehensive training and capacity-building programs for sustained adoption.

Conclusion

The National Mission on Natural Farming represents a paradigm shift toward sustainable agriculture in India. By reducing chemical dependency, improving soil health, and ensuring economic and environmental benefits, the NMNF addresses critical challenges in Indian agriculture. With its ambitious targets and robust framework, the mission has the potential to transform the agricultural landscape while ensuring sustainability for future generations.