Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (30-10-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Science and Technology: COVID-19 resulted in nearly half a million excess deaths, WHO’s global TB report states |
| $25-million Pandemic Fund aims to curb ‘zoonotic’ diseases – |
| Economy: What challenges does India face in fertilizer imports? |
| Polity and Governance: Mobile app for birth and death registration launched |
| Indian HEIs tuning to global rankings; private ones taking the lead |
| Ayushman Bharat: All seniors above 70 can avail health coverage except those in Delhi, West Bengal |
COVID-19 resulted in nearly half a million excess deaths, WHO’s global TB report states
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology
Context: World Health Organization (WHO) TB report of 2024
Why in News
Recently, the latest World Health Organization (WHO) TB report of 2024 was released.
Overview
- The latest World Health Organization (WHO) TB report of 2024, released on October 29, provides a comprehensive analysis of the global tuberculosis (TB) epidemic, highlighting both progress and challenges in combating the disease.
- This report gives insights into how COVID-19 impacted TB control measures and how countries are recovering post-pandemic.
Key Findings from the WHO 2024 TB Report
- Recovery in TB Diagnosis and Treatment Post-COVID-19
- India, Indonesia, and the Philippines were instrumental in achieving large global reductions in new TB diagnoses in 2020 and 2021. However, by 2022, these countries saw new TB diagnoses surpass pre-pandemic levels, indicating a strong recovery.
- The report highlights a “major global recovery” in TB diagnosis and treatment in 2022, following COVID-related setbacks.
- This recovery helped moderate the pandemic’s impact on TB-related illness and mortality rates.
- Impact of COVID-19 on TB Mortality
- The report estimates that disruptions caused by COVID-19 led to nearly 500,000 excess TB-related deaths from 2020 to 2022. This suggests that without the pandemic, mortality from TB might have been significantly lower, aligning with pre-pandemic trends.
- COVID-19 had a substantial impact on healthcare access, diagnosis, and treatment continuity for TB patients, contributing to the higher death rates observed in these years.
- Global TB Burden in High-Burden Countries
- Thirty high-burden countries accounted for 87% of TB cases in 2022. Eight countries alone represented two-thirds of the global TB cases:
- India accounted for 27% of global cases, followed by Indonesia (10%), China (7.1%), the Philippines (7.0%), and Pakistan (5.7%).
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- This concentration indicates that targeted interventions in these countries could have a large impact on global TB reduction efforts.
- Demographics of TB in 2022
- In 2022, men represented 55% of new TB cases, while women accounted for 33%, and children (aged 0-14 years) made up 12%.
- The disease predominantly affects adults, with higher incidences among men than women, reflecting global gender-related exposure and immunity patterns.
TB Mortality and Incidence Trends
- Decline in India’s TB Mortality Rate: According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s TB Report 2024, India’s TB mortality rate dropped from 28 per lakh in 2015 to 23 per lakh in 2022.
- Increase in TB Incidence in India: India’s estimated TB incidence rose from 27.4 lakh cases in 2022 to 27.8 lakh in 2023, reflecting a slight uptick in new cases.
- Global TB Mortality: The WHO report states that TB caused 1.3 million deaths globally in 2022, which is a decrease from 1.4 million in 2020 and 2021, nearly returning to 2019 levels. TB remains the second deadliest infectious disease worldwide, following COVID-19, and accounted for nearly twice as many deaths as HIV/AIDS in 2022.
TB Transmission and Progression
- TB is primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs. About a quarter of the global population carries the bacteria, but only a small percentage of these carriers develop active TB.
- The highest risk of disease onset is within the first two years post-infection. Approximately 90% of TB cases develop in adults, with a greater prevalence in men than in women.
Increase in Global TB Diagnoses in 2022
- WHO reported 7.5 million new TB cases in 2022, the highest since TB tracking began in 1995, surpassing the pre-COVID peak of 7.1 million in 2019.
- The report suggests that this rise may include a backlog of undiagnosed cases from earlier years, as COVID-19 disrupted healthcare services, delaying diagnoses and treatment access.
Progress and Challenges in Reducing TB Deaths
- From 2015 to 2022, global TB-related deaths decreased by 19%. However, this is far from the WHO’s End TB Strategy milestone of a 75% reduction by 2025.
- The gap between the estimated number of new TB cases (incidence) and diagnosed cases (notification) reduced to 3.1 million in 2022, down from four million during 2020-2021, reaching pre-pandemic levels. This improvement is attributed to enhanced detection and diagnosis efforts in the aftermath of COVID-19.
Conclusion
- The WHO’s 2024 TB report emphasizes a mixed outlook: while global TB diagnosis and treatment have rebounded, COVID-19 caused significant setbacks in mortality reduction.
- High-burden countries continue to play a critical role in the fight against TB, and focused efforts in these regions, along with global commitments, are crucial to achieving WHO’s End TB goals.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. According to the 2024 WHO TB report, which of the following statements about tuberculosis is correct?
1. TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and spreads through airborne droplets. 2. Approximately 90% of people who develop TB each year are adults, with a higher incidence among women than men. 3. India, Indonesia, and the Philippines showed higher-than-2019 TB diagnosis rates in 2022 after COVID-19 disruptions. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. The term ‘ACE2’ is talked about in the context of 2021
Ans. (d) |
| Answer – 1- B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct. Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium that spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. · Statement 2 is incorrect. While approximately 90% of those who develop TB each year are adults, TB affects more men than women, according to the 2024 WHO TB report. In 2022, 55% of TB cases were among men, 33% among women, and 12% among children (aged 0–14 years). · Statement 3 is correct. India, Indonesia, and the Philippines all recorded TB diagnosis rates in 2022 that were higher than their 2019 levels, indicating a recovery in TB detection and diagnosis following COVID-19-related disruptions in 2020 and 2021.
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$25-million Pandemic Fund aims to curb ‘zoonotic’ diseases
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology
Context: Pandemic Fund, ‘zoonotic’ diseases
Why in News
The Centre will implement $25-million G20 Pandemic Fund to develop a holistic health coverage for livestock in the wake of pandemics which transmit from animals to the humankind such as the COVID-19.
Overview
- The Indian government has announced the launch of a $25-million G20 Pandemic Fund aimed at enhancing the country’s animal health security and resilience against zoonotic diseases—diseases that spread from animals to humans.
- Union Animal Husbandry Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh introduced the Fund on October 25, 2024.
- The Fund, developed in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has been allocated to support several critical objectives for animal health security and pandemic preparedness by August 2026.
Purpose and Context of the Fund
- Enhancing Animal Health Security: The primary objective of this $25-million Fund is to strengthen India’s animal health infrastructure, given that zoonotic diseases—like COVID-19, which likely originated from animals—can have significant impacts on human health, economy, and livelihoods. The project seeks to improve the country’s response and monitoring systems to prevent future pandemics originating from animals.
- Pandemic Preparedness: Recognizing that around 75% of emerging human pathogens are zoonotic, the project prioritizes upgrading health monitoring and laboratory systems for early detection and intervention.
Key Areas of Investment
- Laboratory Infrastructure and Networks: Funds will be allocated towards upgrading existing animal health laboratories and building a cohesive laboratory network across the country. This will allow for comprehensive testing, early warning systems, and better handling of animal health issues that could pose risks to humans.
- Surveillance Enhancement: Emphasis will be placed on expanding disease surveillance to include genomic and environmental monitoring. Genomic surveillance allows for precise detection of new disease strains, while environmental surveillance tracks disease-causing pathogens in water, soil, and other surroundings. Together, they form a robust early-warning system to prevent zoonotic disease spread.
Cross-Border and Regional Collaboration
- International and Regional Cooperation: To strengthen India’s preparedness, the Fund will support cross-border collaboration with neighboring regions to control zoonotic diseases. Given that these diseases can spread across borders, working with regional bodies and countries will create a more coordinated response, particularly for monitoring and controlling outbreaks.
- Human Capacity Building: The Fund will be used to train and develop human resources in the field of animal health, which is currently one of the weaker links in India’s pandemic preparedness framework. By investing in skill development and training, India aims to improve the capacity of animal health professionals to respond more effectively to zoonotic threats.
Addressing India’s High Risk of Emerging Infectious Diseases
- Global Health Security Index and Environmental Risks: According to Union Animal Husbandry Commissioner Abhijit Mitra, India’s Global Health Security Index score is low at 42.8, indicating public health vulnerabilities and high environmental risk factors. This score points to the need for enhanced health preparedness, particularly in addressing diseases originating from domestic animals and wildlife, which contribute to a significant proportion of human infectious diseases.
- Impact of Climate Change: Climate change has been shown to amplify the spread of zoonotic diseases, as rising temperatures and changing habitats create favorable conditions for vectors like mosquitoes. For instance, there has been an increase in zoonotic mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue, highlighting the urgency of strengthening India’s pandemic preparedness through the lens of animal health.
Long-term Goals and Outcomes
- Data Management and Analytics: The project will modernize data management systems to track disease trends, identify hotspots, and perform risk assessments. Improved analytics capabilities will enable authorities to make better-informed decisions and communicate effectively about animal health risks.
- Institutional and Regional Capacity: Strengthening institutional capacity at both national and regional levels is key to the initiative. The project will support the creation of a disaster management framework for the livestock sector, which would help respond to and manage crises affecting animal health.
- Protecting Vulnerable Populations: By addressing animal health security, the Fund aims to protect vulnerable populations, especially small-holding farmers and women, from the economic and nutritional impacts of zoonotic diseases. Healthier livestock can mean more stable food sources and livelihoods for rural communities that rely on animals for their sustenance.
Significance of the Initiative
- Addressing a Systemic Weakness: The initiative marks a critical step toward improving India’s preparedness for future pandemics by addressing a previously overlooked area—animal health. By viewing human health through the lens of animal health, this Fund aligns with a more holistic approach to pandemic prevention, reducing the likelihood of pathogens emerging from animals and endangering human populations.
- Supporting the One Health Approach: This initiative underscores the “One Health” approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health to build a comprehensive health framework. Given the interconnected nature of ecosystems, managing animal health is fundamental to managing public health risks in India and globally.
Projected Outcomes
- Stronger Pandemic Preparedness and Resilience: By 2026, this project hopes to have significantly upgraded the infrastructure, knowledge, and systems related to animal health, thereby reducing the risk of zoonotic disease spillovers into human populations.
- Reduction in Zoonotic Disease Risks: The ultimate goal is to create a resilient framework that minimizes the risk of zoonotic diseases impacting human populations, thereby safeguarding the health and livelihoods of millions, particularly those in rural India.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. With reference to the recently launched G20 Pandemic Fund for animal health in India, consider the following statements:
1. The Fund is a $25 million initiative to enhance India’s animal health security, aiming to prevent zoonotic diseases. 2. It is being implemented solely by the Ministry of Animal Husbandry, without partnerships with international organizations. 3. One of the Fund’s priorities is to upgrade laboratory infrastructure and improve disease surveillance systems in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 3 only |
Q. In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20? (2020)
(a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey Ans: (a)
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| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The G20 Pandemic Fund is a $25 million initiative focused on strengthening animal health security in India to address zoonotic diseases. · Statement 2 is incorrect: The Fund is implemented in collaboration with international organizations like the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). · Statement 3 is correct: The Fund emphasizes upgrading laboratory infrastructure and enhancing disease surveillance systems to improve pandemic preparedness and response. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
What challenges does India face in fertilizer imports?
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3- Economy
Context: Fertilizer imports in India
Why in News
India is facing a fertilizer shortage due to geopolitical tensions affecting imports.
Impact of the Ukraine and Gaza Crises on Fertilizer Prices and Supply
- Rising Concerns: The ongoing crises in Ukraine and Gaza have caused widespread concern among experts about potential price increases for petroleum-based chemical fertilizers. Fertilizer production depends heavily on petrochemical by-products, making fertilizer prices susceptible to oil market fluctuations.
- FAO Expert Insight: Nicholas Sitko, a Senior Economist at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), highlighted that rising oil prices due to these crises could further destabilize fertilizer markets. India’s reliance on imports for key fertilizers, such as potash, urea, and diammonium phosphate (DAP), underscores the urgency to address these vulnerabilities.
India’s Fertilizer Import Dependence and Current Stock Levels
- Current Stock Concerns in Uttar Pradesh: With rabi (winter) crop planting underway, fertilizers like DAP and NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) are essential. However, Uttar Pradesh’s Agriculture Minister recently raised an alarm about a shortage, revealing stocks may only last another 10 days, impacting crop production.
- Parliament Report on Imports: A 2023 report from the Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilizers highlighted India’s heavy reliance on imports due to insufficient domestic production. The data show that approximately:
- 20% of urea needs,
- 50-60% of DAP, and
- 100% of Muriate of Potash (MOP, also known as Potash) are imported.
- Challenges from Geopolitical Instability: India imports fertilizers from countries like China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran. Ongoing tensions in Russia, Ukraine, and the West Asian region may disrupt these supply chains, heightening import risks.
India’s Fertilizer Production and Consumption Trends
- 2021-22 Production and Consumption: India’s total fertilizer consumption reached approximately 579.67 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) in 2021-22, which included:
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- Urea: 341.73 LMT
- DAP: 92.64 LMT
- NPK: 121.37 LMT
- MOP: 23.93 LMT
- Production Shortfall: While the total production was 435.95 LMT, this left a gap of about 143.72 LMT to be covered by imports. For specific fertilizers, India’s 2021-22 production figures were:
- Urea: 250.72 LMT
- DAP: 42.22 LMT
- NPK: 89.67 LMT
- Single Super Phosphate (SSP): 53.34 LMT
- Incremental Growth Since 2014-15: Production has only increased by about 50 LMT over seven years, indicating a need for more substantial scaling to meet the rising demand.
Government Funding and Subsidies for Fertilizer
- Fertilizer Subsidy for 2023-24: The Indian government allocated ₹1.79 lakh crore for fertilizer subsidies, a significant investment aimed at keeping fertilizers affordable and accessible:
- Indigenous Urea: ₹1,04,063.20 crore
- Imported Urea: ₹31,000 crore
- Indigenous P&K Fertilizers (Phosphorus and Potassium): ₹25,500 crore
- Imported P&K Fertilizers: ₹18,500 crore
Strategies for Strengthening India’s Fertilizer Self-Sufficiency
- Production Capacity Enhancement: Experts, including Dr. Sitko, emphasize that India needs to ramp up domestic fertilizer production. Suggestions for achieving this include:
- Expanding the use of nano urea (a more efficient urea form),
- Promoting natural farming practices that require fewer chemical fertilizers,
- Upgrading the capacity of existing fertilizer factories.
- Parliament’s Recommendations: The Standing Committee has urged policy initiatives to attract public, cooperative, and private sector investments in fertilizer manufacturing and marketing, noting that a supportive investment climate is essential for long-term resilience.
New Urea Production Facilities Under the 2012 Investment Policy
- Implementation of New Policy: A 2012 investment policy has facilitated the establishment of six new urea plants with an annual capacity of 12.7 LMT each, adding 76.2 LMT to India’s urea production.
- Revival of Older Units: Four older urea production units—Ramgundam, Gorakhpur, Sindri (Fertilizers Corporation of India), and Barauni (Hindustan Fertilizer Corporation)—have been revived as gas-based units, adding to the 36 active urea manufacturing units nationwide.
Long-Term Goals for Reducing Import Dependency
- Policy Shift Towards Zonal Fertilizer Self-Sufficiency: Experts recommend a gradual shift in India’s farming systems to reduce dependency on imports, especially for critical fertilizers like potash, which is entirely imported.
- Improving Efficiency and Sustainability: Integrating environmental considerations and advancing sustainable practices in fertilizer use and farming methods can help mitigate the impact of global supply disruptions on Indian agriculture.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q3. Wth reference to India’s fertilizer production and import scenario, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. India is completely self-sufficient in urea production but relies entirely on imports for Muriate of Potash (MOP). 2. The government allocated the highest subsidy amount to imported Phosphorus and Potassium (P&K) fertilizers in the Budget for 2023-24. 3. Recent geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and Gaza are likely to impact the cost and availability of fertilizer imports to India. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements: (2020)
1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government. 2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas. 3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only Ans: (b)
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| Answer 3- C
Explanation · Statement 1 is Incorrect: India does produce a significant amount of urea domestically but is not completely self-sufficient. In 2021-22, India produced about 250.72 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of urea, while the demand was higher at 341.72 LMT, requiring around 20% of the urea supply to be met through imports. However, India does rely entirely on imports for MOP, as it is not produced domestically. · Statement 2 is Incorrect: In the Budget for 2023-24, the highest subsidy was allocated to indigenous urea at ₹1,04,063.20 crore, while the subsidy for imported P&K fertilizers was significantly lower at ₹18,500 crore. Therefore, the maximum subsidy was provided for indigenous urea, not for imported P&K fertilizers. · Statement 3 is correct: The conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza have led to concerns about rising oil prices, which could impact the cost of petroleum-based fertilizer components and disrupt supply chains. India imports fertilizers from several countries, including regions affected by these conflicts, so any instability in these regions could affect fertilizer imports to India. · Therefore, option C is the correct answer. |
Mobile app for birth and death registration launched
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Civil Registration System (CRS)
Why in News
Union Home Minister launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile application to “integrate technology with governance”.
Overview
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently introduced the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile application on October 29, 2024, to simplify the process of registering births and deaths across India.
- This initiative, launched to integrate technology into governance, aims to make registration seamless, quick, and accessible to citizens.
Key Highlights of the Civil Registration System (CRS) Mobile Application
- Simplified Registration of Births and Deaths
- The new CRS mobile app allows citizens to register births and deaths from any location at any time, eliminating the need for physical visits to offices.
- The app supports multiple languages, making the system more user-friendly for people across states to register in their official languages.
- The streamlined digital process is expected to reduce the registration time, providing a more efficient experience for users.
- Amendments Under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 2023
- According to the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023, all births and deaths in the country from October 1, 2023, must be digitally registered on the government portal dc.crsorgi.gov.in.
- This centralized system enables a single-point record of births and deaths, accessible by various government departments for essential services.
- Digital Birth Certificates
- Digital birth certificates produced through this system will serve as a single proof document for date of birth, streamlining access to a range of services, including:
- Admissions to educational institutions
- Government job applications
- Marriage registration
- This also marks a significant step towards digitizing vital records, reducing the paperwork associated with accessing essential services.
- Digital birth certificates produced through this system will serve as a single proof document for date of birth, streamlining access to a range of services, including:
- Role in Updating National Population and Government Databases
- The centralized database for births and deaths can update other government records such as:
- National Population Register (NPR)
- Ration cards
- Property registrations
- Electoral rolls
- The NPR, first established in 2010 and updated in 2015, includes data on 119 crore residents. With the CRS data feeding into the NPR, the app supports the creation of a comprehensive National Register of Citizens (NRC) as mandated under the Citizenship Act.
- The centralized database for births and deaths can update other government records such as:
- Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Unveiled
- During the event, Mr. Shah also unveiled a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Census Building in New Delhi.
- Describing Patel as the “Iron Man of India”, he highlighted Patel’s role in uniting the country post-independence and his contributions to establishing strong democratic foundations in India.
Conclusion
- This move to digitize vital records is intended to enhance administrative efficiency, ensure greater accessibility for citizens, and improve the overall governance framework in India.
- The CRS app aligns with the broader aim of integrating technology into public services, ensuring a more connected and effective governmental system.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Which of the following statements are true regarding the implications of the CRS for India’s governance and administration?
A) Only One C) Only Three
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Q. India’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business Index’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following has declared that ranking? (2016) (a) Organization Cooperation (OECD) for and Economic Development (b) World Economic Forum (c) World Bank (d) World Trade Organization (WTO) Ans- C
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| Answer 4- – A
Explanation · Statement 1 is Correct. The CRS app aims to streamline the registration process by centralizing birth and death data, making it easier for government authorities to manage and access this information. · Statement 2 is Correct. By maintaining a centralized database of births and deaths, the CRS can facilitate the updating of various government records, including electoral rolls and ration cards, as these documents require accurate and up-to-date demographic information. · Statement 3 is Incorrect. One of the primary goals of the CRS app is to reduce the need for physical visits to government offices by allowing citizens to register births and deaths online, making the process more accessible and efficient. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. While the digital birth certificate will be an important document for proving age, it is unlikely to serve as the sole document for all governmental processes. Other forms of identification and documentation may still be required depending on the context (e.g., passports, school records). · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Indian HEIs tuning to global rankings; private ones taking the lead
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Internationalisation of Higher Education in India
Why in news
The internationalisation of higher education in India aims to enhance the quality and global competitiveness of institutions by integrating global dimensions into teaching, learning, and research, as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020.
Introduction
- The internationalisation of higher education is a crucial process aimed at integrating global perspectives into teaching, learning, and research.
- This integration is intended to make education more inclusive and culturally diverse, ultimately grooming students into successful global professionals.
- The National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 outlines a vision for the internationalisation of Indian higher education by 2030, aiming to facilitate student and teacher mobility and foster collaboration between Indian institutions and globally renowned universities.
Objectives of Internationalisation
Mobility and Collaboration
- Facilitating Mobility: The NEP-2020 emphasizes the need for seamless mobility of students and educators, allowing them to gain international exposure and experience.
- Global Collaboration: By collaborating with internationally reputed institutions, Indian higher educational institutions (HEIs) can enhance the quality of education and research to meet global standards.
Accreditation and Ranking
- To attract international students, faculty, and partnerships, Indian institutions must be accredited and ranked by reputable global agencies.
- This effort not only improves the institution’s global standing but also boosts the confidence of prospective students and faculty.
Major International University Ranking Systems
- Several international agencies evaluate and rank universities globally. Among them, Times Higher Education (THE) and Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) are the most recognized for their holistic assessments.
Ranking Parameters
Both THE and QS use various parameters to evaluate universities:
- THE (2025) Factors:
- Academic Factors: 14.5%
- Research Productivity: 45%
- International Presence: 7.5%
- Reputation: 33%
- QS (2025) Factors:
- Academic Factors and Outcomes: 15%
- Research Productivity: 20%
- Global Engagement: 15%
- Reputation: 45%
- Sustainability: 5%
Given that “Reputation” carries significant weight in both rankings, it is vital for institutions to establish robust processes for assessment and enhancement.
Participation of Indian Institutions in International Rankings
In recent years, Indian HEIs have shown increasing interest in participating in international rankings.
Growth in Participation
- THE Rankings:
- Participating institutions grew from 101 in 2023 to 133 in 2025 (31% increase).
- Ranked institutions rose from 75 to 107 (43% increase).
- The share of ranked institutions increased from 4.2% in 2023 to 5.1% in 2025.
Rise of Private Institutions
- The share of ranked private universities surged from 35% in 2023 to 52% in 2025, indicating a significant rise in their global competitiveness.
- Public vs. Private Institutions: The number of ranked public universities remained relatively stagnant, suggesting that private institutions are currently outperforming their public counterparts in terms of global engagement and research productivity.
Analysis of QS World University Rankings (2025)
The QS World University Rankings also reflect positive trends for Indian institutions:
- 46 Indian institutions ranked among 1,500 globally, up from 41 in 2023.
- Eleven Indian institutions ranked in the top 500, showcasing a growing presence in global academia.
Highlights of Performance
- Anna University: Ranked second globally in the Citations per Faculty indicator.
- Growth in Private Institutions: The share of private universities in the QS rankings rose from 27% in 2023 to 35% in 2025.
- Joint Rankings: Twenty-eight Indian universities were ranked by both THE and QS in 2025, showing a notable level of recognition across multiple platforms.
Dominance of Private Universities:
- Private universities have increasingly outperformed public institutions in international rankings. Several factors contribute to their success:
Research Productivity
- Research productivity has become a critical parameter in performance evaluation.
- Private universities are recruiting faculty with a strong track record in research, which enhances their standing in global rankings.
Publication Strategies
- Partnerships with global publishers have enabled private institutions to reduce or eliminate article processing charges (APC) for faculty publications, promoting more research output.
- Some private universities offer financial reimbursement for APCs to encourage faculty publication in high-impact journals.
Faculty Development
- Reducing teaching loads for faculty with proven research capabilities allows them to focus on quality publications and innovative research.
- Sponsorship for faculty to attend international conferences fosters global engagement and networking.
International Engagement
International engagement is vital for building a university’s reputation and expanding its global network.
QS Rankings Insights
In QS University rankings 2025:
- Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences: Ranked highest among Indian institutions in the International Faculty Score.
- Anna University: Excelled in the International Research Network indicator.
- Symbiosis International University: Achieved high scores in Employer Reputation.
Challenges in Attracting International Students
- Most Indian institutions rank low in attracting international students, with Amity University leading with a score of 21.1.
- However, recent initiatives, such as IIT Madras and IIT Delhi establishing offshore campuses, aim to increase the influx of international students.
Conclusion: Path Forward for Indian Higher Education
- The internationalisation of higher education presents numerous opportunities for students, equipping them with cross-cultural competencies and preparing them for global careers.
- Collaborative Opportunities: The collaborative opportunities with reputed international universities will propel Indian higher education toward global excellence, enhancing both academic and research capabilities.
- Sustaining Momentum: Indian universities have made significant strides in improving their global standing despite challenges. By continuing this momentum, Indian higher education institutions can achieve the NEP-2020 goal of internationalisation by 2030, positioning themselves favourably in the global educational landscape.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5 Which of The Following Statements Is/Are True Regarding the National Education Policy (Nep)-2020 And Its Vision for The Internationalisation Of Higher Education In India?
1. Nep-2020 aims to integrate the global dimension in all aspects of teaching, learning, and research by 2030. 2. The policy primarily focuses on enhancing the number of public universities participating in international rankings. 3. Internationalisation is expected to facilitate the mobility of students and teachers, along with collaboration with globally reputed institutions. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 And 2 Only B) 1 And 3 Only C) 2 And 3 Only D) 1, 2, And 3
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Q. Which of the following provisions of the Constitution does India have a bearing on Education? (2012)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 only Ans- (d) |
| Answer 5- B
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: The NEP-2020 emphasizes the importance of internationalisation in higher education, aiming to incorporate global perspectives into the curriculum, teaching methods, and research. It envisions developing partnerships with foreign institutions and integrating a global dimension to enhance the quality and reach of Indian education. · Statement 2 is Incorrect: While NEP-2020 does recognize the significance of international rankings, its focus is broader and includes enhancing the overall quality of higher education institutions, both public and private. The policy promotes international collaboration, student and faculty mobility, and research partnerships rather than exclusively concentrating on increasing the number of public universities in international rankings. · Statement 3 is correct: One of the key objectives of NEP-2020 is to enhance the mobility of students and faculty. The policy encourages Indian institutions to foster international partnerships that would enable students and educators to gain exposure to global best practices, thereby enriching the educational experience and promoting collaborative research. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Ayushman Bharat: All seniors above 70 can avail health coverage except those in Delhi, West Bengal
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Ayushman Bharat
Why in news
The recent announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) marks a significant development in India’s healthcare landscape.
Expansion of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
- New Eligibility: The scheme will now include all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, providing them with health coverage regardless of their income. This expansion aims to ensure that older citizens have access to necessary medical treatments without financial burden.
- Free Treatment: The government will cover hospitalization costs for beneficiaries under this scheme, up to ₹5 lakh annually. This measure is designed to alleviate the financial stress often associated with healthcare expenses, particularly for the elderly.
Political Context
- Critique of State Governments: In his announcement, PM Modi criticized the governments of Delhi and West Bengal for not implementing the scheme effectively. He expressed concern that senior citizens in these states are being denied access to free treatment due to political interests, thereby emphasizing the need for state cooperation in national health initiatives.
- Emotional Appeal: The Prime Minister apologized to elderly residents in these states, highlighting the emotional weight of health issues among seniors. His statement reflects an awareness of the struggles faced by elderly citizens when accessing healthcare services.
Health Cost Reduction
- Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card: The introduction of this card will facilitate free treatment for eligible elderly citizens, reducing their out-of-pocket expenses significantly. This initiative aims to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent senior citizens from receiving necessary medical care.
- Goal of the Scheme: The overarching aim of PM-JAY is to provide a safety net for vulnerable populations, particularly during health crises, thereby contributing to overall social welfare.
Growth of Ayurveda
- Celebration of Ayurveda: On the occasion of Dhanvantari Jayanti and Ayurveda Day, the Prime Minister launched several health sector projects worth approximately ₹12,850 crore. The recognition of Ayurveda in over 150 countries illustrates its growing global relevance.
- Focus on Traditional Medicine: Modi emphasized the importance of validating traditional herbs (like Ashwagandha, turmeric, and black pepper) through scientific research. This validation not only enhances the credibility of traditional medicine but also opens up new markets for Ayurvedic products.
Five Pillars of Health Policy
The Prime Minister outlined five key components of his government’s health policy:
- Preventive Healthcare: Emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to avoid health issues before they arise.
- Early Detection: Focusing on identifying ailments early to ensure timely treatment.
- Affordable Treatment and Medicines: Ensuring that healthcare remains accessible and affordable for all citizens.
- Availability of Healthcare Professionals: Aiming to increase the number of doctors in smaller towns and rural areas to enhance healthcare access.
- Technological Integration: Leveraging technology to improve healthcare delivery and reduce costs.
Infrastructure Development
- Investment in Healthcare: The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation for various projects worth over ₹13,000 crore, including:
- Centers of Excellence: Four new centers under the Ayush Health scheme to enhance specialized medical services.
- Expansion of Health Services: The use of drones and helicopter services at AIIMS, Rishikesh, to improve healthcare delivery in remote areas.
- New Medical Colleges and Nursing Colleges: Establishing new educational institutions to increase the availability of trained healthcare professionals.
E-Sanjeevani Scheme
- Telemedicine Expansion: The e-Sanjeevani initiative, which allows for online consultations with doctors, has reached over 30 crore consultations.
- This initiative reflects a shift towards integrating technology in healthcare to enhance accessibility and reduce the burden on physical healthcare facilities.
Make in India Initiatives
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: The inauguration of five projects under the PLI scheme for medical devices and bulk drugs aims to boost domestic manufacturing in the healthcare sector.
- These projects will produce high-end medical devices and critical care equipment, contributing to India’s self-reliance in healthcare manufacturing.
Conclusion
- The expansion of the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, along with the additional projects and initiatives announced by Prime Minister Modi, signifies a major push towards enhancing healthcare access and quality in India.
- By focusing on senior citizens, validating traditional medicine, leveraging technology, and investing in infrastructure, the government aims to create a more inclusive and robust healthcare system.
- These measures reflect a commitment to improving public health outcomes and ensuring that all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations, receive adequate care.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q6 Which of the following statements are true regarding the recent expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. The Service Area Approach was implemented under the purview of 2021
(a) Integrated Rural Programme (b) Lead Bank Scheme (c) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (d) National Skill Development Mission Answer: b
|
| Answer 6- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: Prime Minister expanded the PM-JAY scheme to include all senior citizens aged 70 and above without regard to their income. This is a significant step in making healthcare accessible to a vulnerable demographic. · Statement 2 is correct: The introduction of the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is intended to help senior citizens access free treatment and significantly reduce their out-of-pocket healthcare costs. This aligns with the overall goals of PM-JAY to provide financial protection against high medical expenses. · Statement 3 is Incorrect: While PM-JAY does provide comprehensive health coverage for beneficiaries, it has a cap on hospitalisation costs. As per the scheme, the government bears the cost of hospitalisation up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. Therefore, it does not cover “all health costs without any limit.” · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |