Current Affairs Reverse Engineering CARE (18-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: PM Modi receives Nigeria’s second-highest national award |
| India, Japan sign agreement for UNICORN masts for Indian naval warships |
| Science and Technology: ICMR-NIN scientists conduct first gene profiles in poultry |
| Polity and Governance: The ‘new’ Justitia and reimagining justice |
| Ayushman Vay Vandana enrolment under AB-PMJAY touches 10 lakh within three weeks |
PM Modi receives Nigeria’s second-highest national award
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 International Relations:
Context: Nigeria’s second-highest national award
Why in News
- Nigeria conferred its second-highest national award – the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger – on Prime Minister of India.
Overview
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Nigeria on November 17, 2024, marked a significant milestone in India-Nigeria relations and highlighted India’s commitment to strengthening its ties with African nations.
Conferment of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)
- Historic Honour: PM Modi was awarded Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
- Significance: He is the second foreign dignitary to receive this distinction, the first being Queen Elizabeth in 1969.
- Dedication: Modi dedicated the award to the 140 crore people of India and the enduring friendship between India and Nigeria.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
- High-Level Talks: PM Modi held detailed discussions with President Tinubu, focusing on broadening mutual cooperation in:
- Economy
- Energy
- Agriculture
- Security
- Fintech
- SMEs
- Culture
- Shared Vision: Emphasis was placed on working together for the prosperity of both nations and the broader African continent.
Key to the City of Abuja
- Upon his arrival in Abuja, PM Modi was warmly welcomed and presented with the ‘Key to the City’, symbolizing trust and honor from the people of Nigeria.
India-Nigeria Partnership
- Strategic Importance: Nigeria is a leading player in Africa and holds a pivotal role in India’s Africa engagement strategy.
- Global South Priorities: Modi reiterated India’s commitment to the interests of the Global South, emphasizing cooperation with Africa.
- Historical Context: This is the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years, underscoring its importance.
International Recognition for PM Modi
- 17th International Award: The GCON award is the 17th international recognition conferred on PM Modi by a foreign country.
- Global Outreach: This reflects his growing stature on the global stage.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||||
Q1. Match the countries with the corresponding awards conferred on Prime Minister of India:
Options: A. 1-a, 2-b, 3-c, 4-d, 5-e B. 1-c, 2-e, 3-a, 4-b, 5-d C. 1-a, 2-d, 3-e, 4-c, 5-b D. 1-b, 2-c, 3-d, 4-e, 5-a |
Q. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. (2021)
1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India. 2. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once. 3. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year. Which of the above statements are not correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans. (d)
|
| Answer – 1 – A
Explanation – · Nigeria – Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON): This is Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, awarded to PM Modi in 2024 for strengthening India-Nigeria relations. · Russia – Order of St. Andrew: Russia’s highest civilian honor was conferred on PM Modi in 2019 for promoting special and privileged strategic partnerships between India and Russia. · UAE – Order of Zayed: This is the UAE’s highest civilian award, given to PM Modi in 2019 in recognition of his efforts to enhance India-UAE bilateral ties. · Bhutan – The Order of the Druk Gyalpo: Bhutan awarded this highest civilian honor to PM Modi in 2021 for supporting Bhutan’s development and fostering close ties. · Maldives – Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen: This is one of the Maldives’ highest honors, awarded to PM Modi in 2019 for strengthening bilateral relations and Indian Ocean cooperation. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
India, Japan sign agreement for UNICORN masts for Indian naval warships
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna)
Why in News
- The recent signing of a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) between India and Japan for the co-development of the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast marks a significant milestone in the evolving India-Japan Defence Technology Cooperation.
What is UNICORN?
- Structure: The UNICORN is a conical mast structure designed to house multiple antennas.
- Stealth Characteristics: Its integration enhances the stealth features of naval warships by reducing radar cross-sections, making ships less detectable by enemy radar systems.
- Communication Systems: It integrates advanced communication systems that improve the operational capabilities of naval platforms.
- Use: It is already installed on Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force ships, such as the JS Kumano.
Key Highlights of the MoI
- Purpose: The agreement focuses on the co-development of the UNICORN mast for Indian Naval warships, leveraging Japanese expertise and collaboration with Indian defense manufacturing.
- First of its Kind: Once implemented, this will be the first export case of Japanese defense technology under the bilateral agreement on defence equipment and technology transfer signed in 2015.
- Partnership: Indian defense manufacturer Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will co-develop these systems in collaboration with Japan.
Strategic Importance
- Strengthening Naval Capabilities:
- The induction of UNICORN will enhance the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities by improving ship stealth and communication efficiency.
- Technological Collaboration:
- The co-development aligns with India’s push for Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) in defense manufacturing.
- It also reflects Japan’s willingness to export defense technology, a significant move given its traditionally pacifist constitution.
- Diplomatic Significance:
- This collaboration underscores the growing India-Japan defense partnership, which is vital for ensuring a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region.
Background of the Agreement
- India-Japan Defence Agreement (2015):
- The bilateral agreement on defence equipment and technology transfer was signed in 2015 to facilitate cooperation in advanced technologies and equipment.
- Progress from 2+2 Dialogues:
- The India-Japan 2+2 Inter-Ministerial Dialogue (involving Defence and Foreign Ministers) in August 2024 emphasized the “early transfer” of UNICORN and related technologies.
- Earlier, discussions in 2022 also highlighted progress in defense technology cooperation, including robotics and unmanned ground vehicles.
- Japan’s Approach to Defense Exports:
- Japan has stringent export policies due to its pacifist constitution.
- While previous negotiations for amphibious planes faced challenges, the UNICORN deal represents a breakthrough in India-Japan defense collaboration.
Implementation and Future Prospects
- Manufacturing in India:
- The systems will be co-developed and co-produced in India by BEL with Japanese technological collaboration.
- This will mark the first instance of co-development of defense equipment between the two nations.
- Exploring Ship Maintenance Collaboration:
- India and Japan are also exploring potential cooperation in the area of ship maintenance, further strengthening their naval capabilities.
- Extending Collaboration to Third Countries:
- Both nations aim to coordinate on providing defense and security assistance to third countries, promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Significance for the Indo-Pacific
- Free and Open Indo-Pacific:
- The collaboration reflects the strategic convergence of India and Japan in maintaining the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.
- Defensive Cooperation:
- By co-developing advanced systems like UNICORN, India and Japan demonstrate their commitment to enhancing regional security.
Conclusion
- The UNICORN mast agreement is not only a significant technological collaboration but also a testament to the deepening strategic ties between India and Japan.
- It highlights the shared vision of the two countries for a secure Indo-Pacific, while also advancing India’s defense manufacturing capabilities under the Make in India
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 Consider the following statements regarding the recent India-Japan agreement on the UNICORN mast:
1. The UNICORN mast is designed to enhance the stealth and communication capabilities of naval warships. 2. This is the first instance of Japan exporting military technology under its bilateral defense agreement with India. 3. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will develop the UNICORN mast independently without any foreign collaboration. 4. The agreement aligns with India and Japan’s shared vision for promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Which of the above statements are correct? (A) 1, 2, and 4 only (B) 1 and 3 only (C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, 3, and 4 |
Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news? (2022)
a) It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea. b) China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea. c) A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities. d) Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries claim them. Ans (b) |
| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · Statement 1: Correct. The UNICORN mast is designed to house communication antennas and enhance stealth capabilities of naval ships. · Statement 2: Correct. The deal marks the first export case of Japanese military technology under the bilateral agreement signed in 2015. · Statement 3: Incorrect. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will co-develop the UNICORN mast in collaboration with Japan. · Statement 4: Correct. The agreement supports the India-Japan vision of ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
ICMR-NIN scientists conduct first gene profiles in poultry
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 3 Science and Technology
Context: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Poultry
Why in News
- Indian scientists have reported antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in poultry from Kerala and Telangana, highlighting a growing public health risk.
Overview
- Indian scientists have reported the first comprehensive profiling of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in poultry farms from Kerala and Telangana.
- The study highlights the emerging threat of AMR in central and southern India and underscores the need for urgent interventions to address this growing public health challenge.
What is AMR and Why is it a Concern?
- AMR Definition: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites develop resistance to medications that were once effective against them.
- Major Concern: AMR reduces the efficacy of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat, which can lead to severe health complications and increased mortality.
- Poultry as a Source: Poultry farming, especially industrialized setups, frequently uses antibiotics for growth promotion and disease prevention, creating a major reservoir for AMR pathogens.
Details of the Study
- Published Research: The study titled ‘The antimicrobial resistance profile in poultry of Central and Southern India is evolving with distinct features’ was published in Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.
- Conducted By: The Drug Safety Division, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad.
- Regions Studied: Poultry farms in Kerala (southern India) and Telangana (central India).
Methodology
- Sample Collection: Chicken fecal samples were collected from various poultry farms.
- DNA Isolation: Genomic DNA was isolated from the samples to analyze the presence of AMR genes.
- Pathogen Identification: Focus was on gram-negative and anaerobic bacterial species that are more resistant to antibiotics due to their additional protective layers.
Key Findings
- Prevalence of AMR Pathogens:
- Detected high-priority pathogens in poultry farms, including:
- E.coli
- Clostridium perfringens
- Klebsiella pneumoniae
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Enterococcus faecalis
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Bacteroides fragilis
- These pathogens cause serious infections such as pneumonia, cholera, food poisoning, UTIs, and intra-abdominal infections.
- Detected high-priority pathogens in poultry farms, including:
- Regional Differences:
- Southern India exhibited higher abundance of AMR genes compared to central India.
- E.coli prevalence was significantly higher in southern regions.
- Comparison with EU Data:
- Similarities: Indian poultry AMR profiles had common features with those reported in the European Union.
- Differences:
- mcr-1 gene (conferring resistance to colistin, a last-resort antibiotic) was absent in Indian samples.
- optrA gene (recently emerged in the EU) was also undetected in Indian samples.
- qnr gene (resistance to quinolones) was emerging at low levels in southern India.
- Gram-negative and Anaerobic Pathogens:
- These species have extra protective layers, making them particularly resistant to antibiotics.
- Severity of AMR in India:
- The AMR gene abundance in Indian poultry is less severe than in the EU.
- However, the study cautions that India has a limited window of opportunity to control AMR before it reaches critical levels.
Implications for Public Health
- Infections and Risks:
- AMR pathogens increase the risk of mortality from infections due to limited treatment options.
- Common infections like respiratory diseases (e.g., pneumonia), UTIs, and gastrointestinal infections become harder to treat.
- Economic Burden: The growing resistance could lead to higher healthcare costs and loss of productivity due to untreatable infections.
Call for Action
The study emphasizes the need for urgent government intervention to control the spread of AMR in the food chain. Suggested measures include:
- Regulating Antibiotic Use: Restrict the use of antibiotics in poultry farming, especially for non-therapeutic purposes like growth promotion.
- Surveillance and Monitoring: Regular monitoring of AMR patterns in livestock.
- Public Awareness: Educate farmers and the public about the dangers of AMR and the importance of responsible antibiotic use.
- International Collaboration: Learn from successful models in the EU to mitigate AMR.
Conclusion
- The study provides critical insights into the growing AMR threat in India’s poultry sector.
- By acting swiftly, India has the opportunity to safeguard public health, prevent the further spread of resistance, and ensure the safety of its food chain.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Indian scientists have recently reported the presence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in poultry from Kerala and Telangana. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding this issue?
1. AMR in poultry farming is mainly caused by the extensive use of antibiotics in industrial farming practices. 2. Gram-negative and anaerobic species like E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were found to carry AMR genes in poultry. 3. Southern India showed a lower prevalence of AMR genes compared to Central India. 4. The presence of mcr-1 and optrA genes in Indian poultry samples is higher than in EU poultry farms. Select the correct answer using the codes below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2020)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only Ans: (d)
|
| Answer 3– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The industrial farming practices in poultry often involve the widespread use of antibiotics, which contribute significantly to the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in poultry. · Statement 2 is correct The study found that poultry from Kerala and Telangana carried AMR genes, with pathogens such as E.coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and other gram-negative and anaerobic species identified, which are known to carry AMR genes. · Statement 3 is Incorrect The study actually found that Southern India had a higher abundance of AMR genes compared to Central India, indicating a more significant presence of AMR in the southern regions. · Statement 4 is Incorrect The study found that India lacked the mcr-1 gene (resistance to colistin) and optrA (a gene found in the EU), which indicates that these genes were not as prevalent in India’s poultry compared to European farms. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
The ‘new’ Justitia and reimagining justice
Source: The Hindu
https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-new-justitia-and-reimagining-justice/article68879316.ece
UPSC Relevance: GS 2 Polity and Governance
Context: Open-eyed Justitia statue in the Supreme Court of India
Why in News
- The recent installation of an open-eyed Justitia statue in the Supreme Court of India has sparked public debate on its symbolism and implications for justice.
Historical Evolution of Justitia’s Iconography
- The concept of justice being symbolized as a goddess has ancient roots, spanning across multiple civilizations, including Roman, Greek, and Egyptian cultures.
- In ancient Rome, for instance, Justitia was sometimes depicted with open eyes, symbolizing clarity and the ability to judge impartially based on the merits of a case.
- Over time, this representation evolved, and the blindfolded version of Justitia became more popular, particularly after the 15th century.
- The blindfold, initially introduced in satirical depictions, was interpreted as a symbol of impartiality, indicating that justice should be rendered without bias or the influence of external factors.
- By the 1530s, this negative interpretation shifted, and the blindfold became a more positive symbol of fairness, equality, and neutrality—suggesting that justice should be blind to factors like wealth, race, and gender.
- The presence of the blindfold implies that justice is not swayed by any personal biases or emotions, and it has remained a central aspect of judicial iconography in many countries, including in India.
The New Justitia Statue and Its Symbolism
- The recent statue in the Supreme Court of India departs from the traditional blindfolded representation.
- The open-eyed depiction, with the goddess holding the Constitution of India, draws a parallel to the mural in the CJI’s court.
- This mural also features an open-eyed Justitia, facing left, dressed as a goddess, and holding the scales of justice.
- The image of Justitia in the mural is said to be associated with the Indian Constitution, as interpreted by former Supreme Court judge M. Jagannadha Rao.
- Rao argued that the book held by Justitia symbolized the “Dharma Shastra,” representing a legal framework offering knowledge to all.
- However, there is also an interpretation that the book represents the Indian Constitution, which is more inclusive and less restrictive than traditional religious texts, offering knowledge to a broader segment of society.
- This idea of constitutional equality fits well with the symbolism of the open-eyed Justitia, who is portrayed as actively “seeing” and understanding the world around her, making decisions based on fairness and knowledge.
Public Debate and Interpretations
- The unveiling of the open-eyed statue has ignited a range of interpretations, especially on social media.
- While some see it as a positive move towards transparency and inclusivity in the legal system, others have expressed concern that it may imply a shift towards seeing one’s identity—such as caste, religion, or political ideology—when dispensing justice.
- Critics worry that this could lead to newer forms of discrimination, which may conflict with the principle of equality before the law.
- This debate reflects broader societal concerns about the accessibility of justice in India.
- The idea of “seeing” could be interpreted as a metaphor for understanding the lived realities of litigants, lawyers, and judges, particularly in a system historically dominated by upper-caste, male, and urban elites.
- The open-eyed statue could signify an attempt to make the judiciary more aware of the social context and lived experiences of the people it serves.
Re-envisioning Justice and Its Representation
- There is also a larger question of whether justice itself should be re-envisioned and represented differently.
- Should justice be portrayed as something that resists traditional, top-down power structures, or should it focus on inclusivity, independence, and equality? In a country like India, where issues related to caste, gender, and religion remain at the forefront of public discourse, these questions are critical.
- Some suggest that justice should be represented through symbols that challenge the status quo, such as feminist, anti-caste, or secular iconographies.
- Others argue that judicial independence and fairness should be the core virtues represented in judicial iconography, but this must be done in a way that reflects the diversity and aspirations of all people in India.
Conclusion: The Role of Art in the Legal System
- The controversy surrounding the open-eyed Justitia statue raises important questions about how the legal system should be portrayed through art.
- It brings attention to issues of access to justice, equality, and the perception of the judiciary.
- The debate is not just about the statue itself but also about the broader societal context in which it exists.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the recent installation of the open-eyed Justitia statue in the Supreme Court of India:
1. The open-eyed depiction of Justitia signifies transparency and a move towards recognizing the individuality of all people in the dispensation of justice. 2. The blindfolded representation of Justitia historically symbolized impartiality and neutrality in judicial proceedings. 3. The statue is based on the mural in the Chief Justice’s court, which features an open-eyed Justitia holding a book symbolizing the Indian Constitution. 4. The open-eyed statue has been interpreted by some to represent justice being influenced by caste, religion, and political ideology. Which of the above statements are correct? A) Only One |
Q. With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements: (2021)
1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India. 2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither I nor 2 Ans: (c)
|
| Answer 4- C
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct because the open-eyed depiction symbolizes transparency and fairness in seeing everyone equally, as stated by the former Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud. · Statement 2 is correct since the blindfolded Justitia historically symbolized impartiality and neutrality, where the blindfold represented justice being blind to external influences. · Statement 3 is correct as the statue draws inspiration from the mural in the CJI’s court, where the open-eyed Justitia holds a book that is interpreted as symbolizing the Indian Constitution. · Statement 4 is incorrect. While some interpretations on social media raised concerns about justice being influenced by caste, religion, and political ideology, this interpretation does not directly stem from the statue’s intended symbolism as presented by the CJI. · Therefore, option C is the correct answer. |
Ayushman Vay Vandana enrolment under AB-PMJAY touches 10 lakh within three weeks
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- Polity and Governance
Context: Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme for Senior Citizens
Why in News
- The Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme provides free healthcare benefits to senior citizens aged 70 and above under the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY initiative.
Overview
- The Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme, launched under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) on October 29, 2024, aims to provide free healthcare benefits to senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
- This initiative has been a significant step towards providing financial protection and access to quality healthcare for elderly citizens, especially in light of the rising healthcare costs.
Key Points of the Scheme:
- Enrollment and Reach: As of November 16, 2024, more than 10 lakh senior citizens have enrolled for the scheme, within just three weeks of its rollout. Of these, approximately 4 lakh enrollments are by women. This rapid uptake signifies the immediate need for healthcare support among senior citizens.
- Coverage and Benefits: The Ayushman Vay Vandana card offers healthcare coverage for various treatments under the AB-PMJAY scheme. Since its launch, treatments worth over ₹9 crore have been authorized, benefitting more than 4,800 senior citizens. Among them, over 1,400 women have received treatment.
- Medical Conditions Covered: The scheme covers treatment for a wide range of medical conditions that are commonly faced by the elderly. Some of the key treatments include:
- Coronary angioplasty (a procedure for heart disease)
- Hip fractures/replacement (which are common among the elderly due to bone fragility)
- Gallbladder removal and cataract surgery
- Prostate resection (a surgery for prostate-related issues)
- Stroke treatment
- Implications for Senior Citizens: The scheme plays a crucial role in reducing the out-of-pocket expenses for senior citizens, particularly for expensive surgeries and treatments, which can otherwise strain their financial resources. With the Ayushman Vay Vandana card, elderly people are ensured timely and quality medical care, promoting their well-being and overall quality of life.
Gender Inclusivity:
- The scheme also focuses on gender inclusivity, with around 4 lakh women enrolled, reflecting the government’s efforts to ensure that women, especially in senior age, receive equal healthcare opportunities.
- The gender-specific data suggests that the scheme is addressing the unique healthcare needs of elderly women.
Conclusion:
- The Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme is a critical initiative that not only improves access to healthcare but also offers a financial safety net for senior citizens.
- It helps reduce their dependence on personal savings and enables them to lead healthier, more secure lives.
- The government’s push to implement such schemes under the broader Ayushman Bharat initiative highlights the commitment to improving public health, especially for vulnerable populations like senior citizens.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5. Which of the following statements are correct regarding the Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme?
Select the correct answer using the codes below: A) 1, 2, and 4 only |
Q. With reference to the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: (2022)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (d)
|
| Answer 5- A
Explanation · Statement 1: Correct. The Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme provides free healthcare benefits to senior citizens aged 70 and above under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). · Statement 2: Correct. More than 10 lakh senior citizens have enrolled for the scheme within three weeks of its rollout, as stated in the Ministry’s release. · Statement 3: Incorrect. The scheme was launched on October 29, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, not the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare. · Statement 4: Correct. Treatments worth over ₹9 crore have been authorized, benefiting more than 4,800 senior citizens, including 1,400 women, as per the Ministry’s release. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |