CARE 24th October 2024 Current Affairs

 Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (24-10-2024)

News at a Glance
Science and Technology: World’s first vaccine for winter vomiting bug norovirus to be trialled in UK
McDonald’s-linked outbreak in United States: what is E. coli?
Polity and governance: PM Young Achievers’ Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM YASASVI)
Disaster Management: Cyclone Dana to hit Odisha, West Bengal: What is a cyclone and what are its types?
International Relations: BRICS Summit adopts Kazan declaration

World’s first vaccine for winter vomiting bug norovirus to be trialled in UK

Source: Independent

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/norovirus-vaccine-winter-vominting-bug-nhs-b2633467.html

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Science and Technology

Context: Groundbreaking NHS Trial for Norovirus Vaccine

Why in News

  • A vaccine to guard against the winter vomiting bug norovirus is set for a year-long groundbreaking NHS trial.

Overview

  • The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is set to begin a year-long trial for the world’s first vaccine aimed at protecting against norovirus, commonly referred to as the “winter vomiting bug.”
  • Early results show promising signs that the vaccine induces a “strong immune response” and could significantly reduce the burden of the disease on the healthcare system.
  • This trial represents a collaboration between the pharmaceutical company Moderna, the NHS, and the UK government.

What is Norovirus?

  • Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like severe vomiting and diarrhoea.
  • It is a seasonal virus, with cases often spiking during the colder months, especially from November to March.
  • In the UK, norovirus causes around 12,000 hospital admissions each year, severely straining the healthcare system.
  • The virus spreads easily in places with close human contact, such as schools, care homes, and hospitals.
  • Moreover, it has significant economic repercussions due to absenteeism and the need for medical care.

The Need for a Norovirus Vaccine

  • Norovirus affects both public health and the economy. For the NHS, winter months often see an increase in hospital admissions for vomiting and diarrhoea.
  • Between November 2023 and March 2024, an average of 500 patients were admitted to hospitals each day due to these symptoms.
  • Current estimates indicate that norovirus costs the UK approximately £100 million annually.
  • Health Secretary Wes Streeting underscored the importance of developing a vaccine to ease the strain on the NHS and transition the healthcare system towards preventive care.

How the Norovirus Vaccine Works

  • The vaccine being trialled uses mRNA technology, the same innovative approach employed in the development of COVID-19 vaccines.
  • This technology works by instructing the body’s immune system to recognize proteins from the virus, thereby preparing the immune system to mount a defense if the person is later exposed to the actual virus.
  • In this case, the vaccine targets three major strains of norovirus, and the trial’s preliminary results suggest it generates a robust immune response.

Structure of the Trial

  • The phase 3 trial, known as the “Nova 30” trial, will recruit 2,500 participants across 27 NHS sites, including primary care centers, GP practices, and hospitals.
  • This stage of the trial is crucial as it is typically the final step before a vaccine is approved for public use.
  • Half of the participants will receive the actual vaccine, while the other half will be given a placebo.
  • Participants will be monitored for about 25 months to evaluate the long-term effectiveness and safety of the vaccine.
  • The trial is focused on those aged 60 to 80, as older adults are particularly vulnerable to norovirus.

Potential Benefits and Outcomes

  • The goal is for the vaccine to show an efficacy rate of 65% or higher.
  • If successful, it could lead to significant reductions in norovirus outbreaks, particularly during the winter, alleviating pressure on the NHS.
  • Additionally, the trial will explore whether the vaccine should be administered seasonally, like the flu vaccine, or if it could offer long-term immunity.
  • If the trial results are positive, Moderna could apply for market approval by 2026.
  • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) would need to approve the vaccine, and the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) would then need to recommend its use before it can be rolled out to the public via the NHS.

Potential Future Developments

  • Once the vaccine is approved for adults, the trial may be extended to include children, who are also commonly affected by norovirus outbreaks, particularly in schools.
  • The long-term follow-up of the trial participants will help researchers determine how effective and safe the vaccine is for broader demographic groups.

Conclusion

  • The norovirus vaccine trial represents a significant step forward in preventive healthcare.
  • If successful, it could relieve the burden of norovirus on the NHS, reducing hospital admissions and healthcare costs while improving public health outcomes.
  • With a projected release in 2026, this vaccine has the potential to change how norovirus is managed, shifting the focus from treatment to prevention.
CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q1. With reference to Norovirus, often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” consider the following statements:

1.  Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily causes respiratory infections.

2.  The mRNA technology used for developing the Covid-19 vaccine is also being used in the trial of a Norovirus vaccine.

3.  Norovirus outbreaks usually peak during the winter months, causing a significant strain on healthcare systems.

4.  The ongoing vaccine trial aims to evaluate the vaccine’s effectiveness in children between the ages of 5 and 15.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.  1 and 4 only

B.   2 and 3 only

C.   1, 2, and 4 only

D.  2, 3, and 4 only

Q. Which of the following statements is / are correct? (2013)

1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for the generation of energy.

2. Viruses can be cultured in any synthetic medium.

3. Viruses are transmitted from one organism to another by biological vectors only.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

[a] 1 only

[b] 2 and 3 only

[c] 1 and 3 only

[d] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: a

Answer – 1-B

Explanation –

·       Statement 1 is incorrect. Norovirus causes gastroenteritis, not respiratory infections.

·       Statement 2 is correct. The Norovirus vaccine trial uses mRNA technology.

·       Statement 3 is correct. Norovirus outbreaks typically peak in the winter months, putting pressure on healthcare systems.

·       Statement 4 is incorrect. The trial is focused on adults, particularly those aged 60 to 80, not children.

  • Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

McDonald’s-linked outbreak in United States: what is E.coli?

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-health/mcdonalds-linked-outbreak-in-united-states-what-is-e-coli-9635584/

UPSC Relevance: GS 3 Science and Technology

Context: E.coli infection

Why in News

  • One person has died and 10 have been hospitalised in the US due to an E.coli infection after eating McDonald’s burgers.

The E.coli Outbreak in the U.S.:

  • Recently, an outbreak of E.coli infection in the U.S. has resulted in one death and the hospitalization of 10 people.
  • The outbreak is linked to McDonald’s quarter pound burgers and slivered onions, although the exact source of contamination is still under investigation.
  • McDonald’s has stopped serving quarter pound patties and slivered onions in several states across the U.S. as a precautionary measure.

Has the Outbreak Spread Outside the U.S.?

  • No, the outbreak is currently confined to 10 states within the United States. There have been no reports of the outbreak occurring outside the U.S.

E.coli in India:

  • While the specific outbreak has not reached India, E.coli infections are not uncommon in the country. The bacteria can spread through contaminated food and water, and cases typically rise during the summer and monsoon seasons when gastrointestinal infections are more frequent.
  • According to the National Centre for Disease Control, more than 500 diarrhoeal outbreaks were reported in India in 2023, and E.coli was the most commonly found bacteria in samples taken from patients in tertiary care hospitals.

Symptoms of E.coli Infection:

  • E.coli infections primarily cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including:
    • Fever exceeding 102°F
    • Persistent diarrhoea
    • Bloody diarrhoea
    • Vomiting
    • Dehydration due to an inability to retain water and fluids
  • In severe cases, E.coli can lead to acute kidney injury, though this is rare.

When Should You See a Doctor?

  • You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
    • Diarrhoea lasting more than two days
    • Frequent trips to the toilet (every half hour to an hour)
    • Bloody diarrhoea
    • Repeated vomiting
    • Inability to retain fluids, which can lead to dehydration

Treatment for E.coli Infections:

  • As a bacterial infection, E.coli is typically treated with antibiotics.
  • However, antibiotics should only be taken under medical supervision to avoid misuse and the development of antimicrobial resistance.
  • Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing problem, with E.coli bacteria showing declining susceptibility to powerful antibiotics such as carbapenem.
  • In 2017, 81.4% of E.coli bacteria were susceptible to this antibiotic, but this dropped to 62.7% by 2023.

Government Measures:

  • The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is working to establish a network of 34 microbiology labs across the country to test food for pathogens like E.coli, salmonella, and listeria, aiming to strengthen food safety.
 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q2. With reference to E.coli infections, consider the following statements:

1.  E.coli infections are primarily linked to respiratory symptoms such as coughing and wheezing.

2.  In India, E.coli infections commonly spread through contaminated food and water, especially during the summer and rainy seasons.

3.  Antimicrobial resistance has made certain E.coli strains less susceptible to antibiotics such as carbapenem in recent years.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only

B)  2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D)     1, 2, and 3

Q. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)

Viruses can infect

1. bacteria

2. fungi

3. plants

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[a] 1 and 2 only

[b] 3 only

[c] 1 and 3 only

[d] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: d

Answer 2– B

Explanation –

·        Statement 1 is incorrect. E.coli primarily causes gastrointestinal symptoms, not respiratory issues.

·        Statement 2 is correct. In India, E.coli infections spread through contaminated food and water, particularly during the summer and monsoon seasons.

·       Statement 3 is correct. There has been a decline in the susceptibility of E.coli to antibiotics like carbapenem due to antimicrobial resistance.

·       Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

PM Young Achievers’ Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM YASASVI)

Source: PIB

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2067373

UPSC Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance

Context: PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI)

Why in News

  • The PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI) was launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme

  • PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme is a comprehensive initiative aimed at providing quality education to students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT).
  • It focuses on addressing the educational and financial challenges faced by these marginalized communities, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Background

  • With the vision of “Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas”, the PM-YASASVI scheme consolidates and enhances several earlier scholarship initiatives, including:
  • Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for EBCs
  • Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for DNTs
  • Since its inception in 2021-22, the PM-YASASVI scheme has merged these existing programs into one umbrella scheme to streamline the scholarship process, ensuring better coverage and support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Objective

The primary objective of PM-YASASVI is to empower educationally vulnerable groups by providing financial aid and removing barriers to education. By offering scholarships and additional support, the scheme:

  • Promotes academic achievement for OBC, EBC, and DNT students.
  • Helps students from economically weaker sections overcome financial constraints.
  • Contributes to social mobility by ensuring that education is accessible to all, regardless of economic background.

Through this initiative, the government hopes to create an inclusive society where students from underprivileged sections can pursue their education without financial stress.

Key Features and Sub-schemes

The PM-YASASVI scheme includes five sub-schemes, each targeting different stages of a student’s academic journey:

  • Pre-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC, and DNT Students:
  • Designed for students in classes IX and X attending government schools.
  • Provides an annual academic allowance of Rs. 4,000 for students from families with an income below Rs. 2.5 lakh.
  • For the academic year 2023-24, Rs. 32.44 crore has been allocated.

Post-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC, and DNT Students:

  • Aims at supporting post-secondary education, covering costs from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 20,000 depending on the course.
  • 387.27 crore has been allocated for the 2023-24 year.

Top Class School Education:

  • Provides scholarships to meritorious students from classes 9 to 12.
  • Covers tuition fees, hostel expenses, and academic costs, with a maximum funding of Rs. 1.25 lakh annually.

Top Class College Education:

  • Supports college students in prestigious institutions, covering full financial support, including tuition, living expenses, and educational materials.

Construction of Hostels for OBC Boys and Girls:

  • Allocates funds for building hostels for socially and educationally backward students.
  • 12.75 crore has been allocated in 2023-24 for this scheme.
  • These sub-schemes address different aspects of a student’s educational journey, ensuring they have the necessary support from their school years through higher education.

Scope and Impact

PM-YASASVI offers a wide range of scholarships, depending on the student’s level of education. Here’s a summary of its impact in 2023-24:

  • Pre-Matric Scholarship: Benefited 19.86 lakh students with Rs. 193.83 crore allocated.
  • Post-Matric Scholarship: Benefited 27.97 lakh students with Rs. 988.05 crore allocated.
  • Additionally, Rs. 14.30 crore was released for constructing hostels to accommodate 1,146 students. The Top Class Education Programs benefited 4,762 college students (Rs. 111.18 crore allocated) and 2,602 school students (Rs. 6.55 crore allocated). Furthermore, Rs. 56.24 crore was granted as interest subsidies to 2,789 students pursuing overseas education.
  • This initiative addresses the financial constraints that prevent many from continuing their education, providing scholarships, hostel facilities, and full academic support.
  • Through these measures, the government is transforming the educational landscape for marginalized students, contributing to their personal and professional growth.

Benefits of PM-YASASVI

  • Educational Empowerment: The scheme provides comprehensive financial support to underprivileged students, helping them to focus on their studies rather than worrying about tuition fees and living expenses.
  • Inclusivity and Equity: PM-YASASVI aligns with the government’s broader vision of promoting social equity, ensuring that students from OBC, EBC, and DNT communities have access to quality education.
  • Holistic Development: By supporting students through pre-matric, post-matric, and top-class education, the scheme nurtures talent from an early age and ensures students have the resources they need to excel at all levels of education.
  • Long-Term Impact: The financial assistance provided by PM-YASASVI enables students to complete their education, improving their chances of upward mobility and self-reliance. The long-term vision of the scheme is to contribute to a more prosperous and developed India by 2047.

Selection Process and Eligibility

Selection Process:

  • The YASASVI Entrance Test (YET) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) serves as the basis for selecting candidates for the scholarships. This process ensures a merit-based selection of deserving students.

Eligibility:

  • Open to OBC, EBC, and DNT students with a total annual family income of up to Rs. 2.5 lakh. Additional eligibility criteria may apply depending on the specific sub-scheme.

Application Process:

  • Eligible students can apply online through the National Scholarship Portal at scholarships.gov.in.

Conclusion

  • The PM-YASASVI Scheme is a landmark initiative that addresses the financial barriers faced by students from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them to pursue their educational dreams.
  • By integrating multiple scholarship programs into a single, streamlined initiative, it ensures that no student is left behind.
  • The comprehensive support provided by this scheme—from pre-matric education to higher studies—lays the foundation for creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
  • PM-YASASVI is playing a crucial role in the welfare and upliftment of marginalized communities, enabling them to contribute to India’s vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q3. Which of the following statements is true regarding the PM YASASVI scheme?

1.  It is aimed at providing scholarships only to students from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).

2.  It covers students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT).

3.  The scheme provides scholarships only for post-secondary education.

4.  It subsumed several previous initiatives like the Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship for Scheduled Tribes.

Select the correct answer:

A.      1 and 3 only

B.       2 and 4 only

C.       2 only

D.      1 and 4 only

Q. Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the (2021)

(a) Department of Science and Technology

(b) Ministry of Employment

(c) NITI Aayog

(d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

 

Answer: C

Answer 3 – C

Explanation

·        Statement 1 is Incorrect: The PM YASASVI scheme is not exclusively for SC/ST students. It is designed to provide scholarships to students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT).

·        Statement 2 is correct: The scheme focuses on providing financial support to students from OBC, EBC, and DNT categories.

·       Statement 3 is Incorrect: The PM YASASVI scheme provides scholarships at both the pre-matric level (Class 9-10) and post-matric level (post-secondary or higher education). Therefore, the scheme supports students from Class 9 onwards.

·       Statement 4 is Incorrect While the PM YASASVI scheme did subsume previous scholarship programs, including the Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship for EBCs and the Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship for DNTs, it did not subsume programs specifically for Scheduled Tribes (ST).

·       Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

 Cyclone Dana to hit Odisha, West Bengal: What is a cyclone and what are its types?

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/cyclone-dana-odisha-west-bengal-types-9634514/

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Disaster Management

Context: Cyclone Dana

Why in News

  • The Indian Meteorological Department that Cyclone Dana will likely intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall in West Bengal and Odisha.

What is a Cyclone?

A cyclone is a large-scale air system characterized by rotating winds around a low-pressure center. Cyclones are significant weather systems that typically bring about intense storms and adverse weather conditions. The defining features of cyclones include:

  • Low-Pressure Center: The core of a cyclone is marked by a low-pressure area, where air converges and rises.
  • Spiraling Winds: Winds in a cyclone rotate counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere, driven by the Coriolis effect.
  • Stormy Weather: Cyclones are often associated with severe weather, including heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds.

Tropical Cyclones

  • Tropical cyclones are storm systems that develop over warm tropical oceans and are characterized by organized convection (thunderstorm activity) around a low-pressure center.
  • Formation Conditions:
    • Warm Ocean Waters: They typically form in ocean waters warmer than 26.5°C (approximately 80°F), which provide the heat and moisture necessary for the development of the cyclone.
    • Atmospheric Instability: Sufficient moisture in the atmosphere and unstable air parcels are essential for storm development.
    • Coriolis Effect: A minimum level of Coriolis force is necessary to initiate and maintain rotation.
  • Characteristics:
    • Energy Source: Tropical cyclones derive their energy primarily from the condensation of water vapor into liquid water (latent heat) as warm air rises.
    • Structure: They have a well-defined center called the “eye,” surrounded by the “eyewall,” where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur.
    • Naming: Depending on their location, tropical cyclones have different names:
      • Hurricanes: In the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and the North Atlantic Ocean.
      • Typhoons: In the western North Pacific Ocean.
      • Cyclones: In the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
  • Impact: Tropical cyclones are among the most destructive natural disasters, capable of causing severe flooding, wind damage, and loss of life.

Extratropical Cyclones

Definition: Also known as mid-latitude cyclones, extratropical cyclones occur outside the tropics and are typically associated with frontal systems.

  • Formation Conditions:
    • Cold and Warm Air Interactions: They form when cold air masses meet warm air masses, creating a front, which is a boundary where the two air types interact.
    • Energy Source: The energy for extratropical cyclones comes from the potential energy released during the interaction of different air masses, not from warm ocean waters as in tropical cyclones.
  • Characteristics:
    • Presence of Fronts: Extratropical cyclones are always associated with one or more fronts (cold fronts and warm fronts).
    • Weather Variability: These cyclones can lead to a range of weather conditions, including rain, snow, thunderstorms, and strong winds.
  • Impact: Extratropical cyclones can also cause significant weather events, but they are typically less intense than tropical cyclones.

Cyclone Dana

As of October 23, 2024, Cyclone Dana is a developing tropical cyclone located over the east-central Bay of Bengal. Key points regarding Cyclone Dana include:

  • Intensity and Path: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Cyclone Dana is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm. It is expected to move northwestward and may make landfall along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal between the night of October 24 and the morning of October 25.
  • Wind Speeds: The cyclone is projected to have wind speeds ranging from 100-110 km/h, with gusts up to 120 km/h. These wind speeds can lead to extensive damage, particularly in coastal areas.
  • Rainfall Forecast: The cyclone is anticipated to bring varying degrees of rainfall:
    • Heavy Rainfall: Extremely heavy rainfall (≥ 21 cm) is expected in isolated areas of Odisha, including districts such as Baleswar, Mayurbhanj, and Kendrapara.
    • Moderate to Heavy Rainfall: Areas in West Bengal, including South & North 24 Parganas and Kolkata, are also likely to experience heavy rainfall.

Conclusion

  • Understanding the characteristics and differences between tropical and extratropical cyclones is crucial for effective weather prediction and disaster preparedness.
  • Cyclone Dana serves as a reminder of the power of tropical cyclones and their potential impact on human life and infrastructure.
CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q4. Match the Cyclone Names with Their Affected Regions

Cyclone Name Affected Region
1. Cyclone Amphan a. Eastern India
2. Hurricane Katrina b. Gulf Coast, USA
3. Typhoon Haiyan c. Philippines
4. Cyclone Nargis d. Myanmar

Select the correct pairings:

(A) 1 – a, 2 – b, 3 – c, 4 – d
(B) 1 – a, 2 – c, 3 – b, 4 – d
(C) 1 – d, 2 – b, 3 – a, 4 – c
(D) 1 – a, 2 – d, 3 – c, 4 – b

 

Q. Consider the following statements: (2020)

  1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only.
  2. Only some cyclones develop an eye.
  3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly 10 C lesser than that of the surroundings.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct:

A.      1 only

B.       2 and 3 only

C.       2 only

D.      1 and 3 only

Answer: c) 2 only

 

Answer 4-A

Explanation

·       Cyclone Amphan:

Affected Region: a. Eastern India

Details: Amphan caused widespread damage in India and Bangladesh.

·       Hurricane Katrina:

Affected Region: b. Gulf Coast, USA

Details: Katrina was one of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history, particularly affecting New Orleans.

·       Typhoon Haiyan:

Affected Region: c. Philippines

Details: Haiyan was one of the strongest recorded tropical cyclones, devastating the Philippines.

·       Cyclone Nargis:

Affected Region: d. Myanmar

Details: Nargis caused significant loss of life and damage in Myanmar, especially in the Irrawaddy Delta region.

·       Therefore, option A is the correct answer.  

­­­BRICS Summit adopts Kazan declaration

Source: Times of India

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/brics-summit-adopts-kazan-declaration-read-full-text/articleshow/114509129.cms

UPSC Syllabus Relevance:  GS 2- International Relations

Context: Kazan Declaration

Why in news

  • The recent BRICS Summit culminated in the adoption of the Kazan Declaration

Overview

  • The Kazan Declaration is a comprehensive document adopted during the BRICS Summit that articulates the collective vision and goals of the member nations.
  • It reflects a commitment to fostering global multipolarity, enhancing cooperation among member countries, and addressing pressing global challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and economic development.
  • It is a pivotal document encapsulating the collective vision and aspirations of the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

Key Highlights of the Kazan Declaration

  1. Approval and Distribution:
    • Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the Kazan Declaration has received unanimous approval from all member nations. It will be forwarded to the United Nations as a significant articulation of global multipolarity, indicating a shift towards a more balanced global power structure where multiple nations have equal influence.
  2. Address by Prime Minister of India:
    • PM Modi addressed two sessions at the summit, emphasizing the timing of the summit amid various global challenges. He highlighted issues such as:
      • Ongoing conflicts across nations.
      • Adverse climatic impacts affecting global stability.
      • Rising cyber threats that pose risks to national security and global cooperation.
  3. People-Centric Approach:
    • PM Modi advocated for a people-centric approach to address these multifaceted challenges, suggesting that BRICS should focus on initiatives that directly benefit the populace of its member nations.
  4. Combating Terrorism:
    • The Prime Minister underscored the urgency of adopting a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN level. This reflects a proactive stance against terrorism, which remains a persistent threat in many regions.
  5. Global Governance Reforms:
    • Modi called for BRICS to push for reforms in global governance, underscoring the importance of addressing the voices and concerns of the Global South. This was linked to India’s previous initiatives during its G-20 Presidency, where the country hosted the Voice of Global South Summits aimed at amplifying the concerns of developing nations.
  6. Economic Initiatives and New Development Bank:
    • The Prime Minister highlighted the contributions of the New Development Bank (NDB) in fostering regional development, particularly mentioning its presence in GIFT City, India. This initiative is aimed at creating value and impact in the region.
    • He pointed out various BRICS efforts in:
      • Trade facilitation in agriculture
      • Establishing resilient supply chains
      • Promoting e-commerce
      • Creating Special Economic Zones
    • Modi emphasized the need to prioritize small and medium-scale industries, recognizing their role in economic growth and job creation.
  7. BRICS Startup Forum:
    • The Prime Minister announced the initiation of a BRICS Startup Forum, set to launch within the year. This forum is anticipated to enhance the BRICS economic agenda by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among member nations.
  8. Green Initiatives:
    • PM Modi elaborated on India’s commitment to green initiatives, including:
      • International Solar Alliance
      • Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
      • Mission LIFE (Lifestyle for Environment)
      • Green Credit Initiative announced during COP28.
    • He extended an invitation to BRICS countries to join these initiatives, aiming for collaborative efforts towards sustainable development and combating climate change.
  9. Conclusion of the Summit:
    • At the summit’s conclusion, leaders adopted the Kazan Declaration, setting the stage for future collaboration among BRICS nations on the identified priorities.

 Implications of the Kazan Declaration

  • Strengthened Multilateralism: The declaration signifies a commitment to a multipolar world, allowing BRICS nations to assert their influence in global affairs more effectively.
  • Focus on Development and Sustainability: By prioritizing economic growth, sustainable development, and small to medium enterprises, BRICS aims to enhance the livelihoods of people in member countries.
  • Collective Action Against Global Challenges: The emphasis on collective action against terrorism, climate change, and economic challenges reflects a unified front among member states to tackle pressing global issues.

 Conclusion

  • The Kazan Declaration and the discussions during the BRICS Summit encapsulate a comprehensive strategy for the member nations to navigate contemporary challenges through unity, innovation, and a focus on sustainable development.
  • The efforts highlighted by PM Modi indicate India’s proactive leadership role in BRICS and its commitment to addressing global issues collaboratively.
CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q5 Which of the following statements are true regarding the Kazan Declaration adopted at the BRICS Summit?

  1. It reflects the collective vision and goals of BRICS nations.
  2. The declaration emphasizes the need for a single-country approach to global governance.
  3. It includes a commitment to combating terrorism through a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN.
  4. The declaration advocates for prioritizing the concerns of the Global North over the Global South.

Select the correct answer:

(A) 1 and 3 only
(B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1 and 2 only
(D) 1, 3, and 4 only

Q.   With reference to the “United Nations Credentials Committee”, consider the following statements: (2022)

  1. It is a committee set up by the UN Security Council and works under its supervision.
  2. It traditionally meets in March, June and September every year.
  3. It assesses the credentials of all UN members before submitting a report to the General Assembly for approval.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a)       3 only

b)      1 and 3 only

c)       2 and 3 only

d)      1 and 2 only

Ans: a

Answer 5-A

Explanation

·       Statement 1 is correct. The Kazan Declaration is designed to encapsulate the shared vision and objectives of the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).

·       Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Kazan Declaration advocates for a multipolar world and collective action, rather than a single-country approach, emphasizing cooperation among all member nations.

·       Statement 3 is incorrect. The declaration includes a call for the early adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations, highlighting the BRICS nations’ commitment to combat terrorism.

·       Statement 4 is correct. The Kazan Declaration stresses the importance of addressing the concerns of the Global South and prioritizing their needs in global governance discussions.

·       Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

 

 

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