Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (03-09-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: China-Africa forum and Learnings for India |
| Polity and Governance: Centre okays Rs 14,000-crore for 7 new schemes to boost farmer income |
| Supreme Court pulled up AYUSH Ministry over Rule 170 of Drugs Act |
| Science and Technology: UNICEF issues emergency tender to secure mpox vaccines with Africa CDC, Gavi and WHO |
| Awards: Ramon Magsaysay award 2024 announced |
China-Africa Forum and learnings for India
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 International Relations
Context: Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)
Why in News
- The ninth edition of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is to take place in Beijing.
Overview
- The ninth edition of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is set to take place from September 4-6, 2024, in Beijing.
- This event comes at a challenging time for African nations, which are grappling with several issues, including high inflation, currency depreciation, debt burdens, military takeovers, and geopolitical conflicts such as the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars.
- Additionally, the region faces attacks by Houthi rebels and experiences summit fatigue due to recent Africa+1 summits with various global powers.
Current Issues in Africa:
- Economic Struggles: African countries are facing high inflation, depreciating currencies, and heavy debt loads. These economic challenges are compounded by political instability and geopolitical conflicts.
- Summit Fatigue: Leaders are experiencing fatigue from attending numerous summits, which could impact participation at FOCAC. The Banjul format of 15 countries plus the African Union Commission (AUC) might be more practical to manage.
African Priorities at FOCAC 2024:
- Trade and Economic Goals: Progress on China’s goal to import $300 billion worth of goods from Africa by 2024 has been modest. Trade between China and Africa reached $167 billion from January to July 2024, with a significant portion in raw materials.
- Agricultural Development: There’s a need for improved agricultural processing and climate-resilient practices. Partnerships with countries like China and India could help develop crops, fertilizers, and technologies suited to African conditions.
- Green Energy and Industrial Development: African countries seek to establish refining and processing hubs to enhance the value chain of their resources. However, issues such as electricity shortages and environmental costs pose challenges.
Debt Sustainability and China’s Role:
- Chinese Loans: China has lent approximately $170 billion to African governments and institutions between 2000-2022, making it a significant but not the primary creditor. Concerns exist about debt transparency and the potential for debt traps.
- Debt Management: China is unlikely to cancel debts but may write off small, interest-free loans. African governments are working on a coherent strategy to better negotiate and manage their debt with China.
Lessons for India:
- Continuity in Engagement: India should aim to hold its next India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) soon and set up dialogues with African regional economic communities.
- Economic Integration and Investment: India can play a role in integrating African economies into global value chains by investing in sectors like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.
- Private Sector Participation and Innovative Financing: India should encourage private sector involvement and explore innovative financing solutions, such as public-private partnerships and rupee-based credit lines, to support projects in Africa.
Technology and Digital Connectivity:
- Leveraging Digital Solutions: India’s digital stack, including biometrics and UPI, can enhance connectivity with Africa.
- Expanding currency-neutral transactions could also benefit both parties by reducing forex risk.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. With reference to the upcoming ninth edition of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) scheduled for September 2024, which of the following statements is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the codes below: A. 1 and 2 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 (b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand (c) Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam (d) Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea Ans: (a) |
| Answer 1- B
Explanation
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Centre okays Rs 14,000-crore for 7 new schemes to boost farmer income
Source: Business Standard
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance- Judiciary
Context: state of infrastructure in district courts across the country
Why in News
- The Union Cabinet announced seven new schemes with a total outlay of nearly Rs 14,000 crore for the agriculture and allied sectors.
Overview
- The Union Cabinet has announced seven new schemes with a total outlay of nearly Rs 14,000 crore aimed at enhancing various aspects of agriculture and allied sectors.
- These schemes focus on research and education, climate resilience, natural resource management, digitisation, and the growth of livestock and horticulture.
- The overarching goal is to make agriculture more climate-resistant and improve farmers’ incomes.
Digital Agriculture Mission
- Purpose: To enhance the digitisation of agriculture through the creation of two key components:
- Agri Stack: A digital infrastructure for agriculture.
- Krishi Decision Support System: A platform providing data-driven support for agricultural decision-making.
- Impact: This mission will help modernize agriculture through digital tools and technologies, promoting better data management and decision-making.
Crop Science for Food and Nutritional Security
- Purpose: To strengthen crop science through:
- Research and Education: Improving crop research and agricultural education.
- Plant Genetic Resource Management: Managing genetic resources for better crop varieties.
- Genetic Improvement: Enhancing food and fodder crops.
- Pulse and Oilseed Crop Improvement: Developing better pulse and oilseed varieties.
- Research on Insects and Microbes: Studying pests, microbes, and pollinators.
- Commercial Crop Improvement: Enhancing commercial crop production.
- Impact: This scheme aims to boost food security and nutrition through advanced research and improved crop varieties.
Strengthening Agriculture Education, Management, and Social Sciences
- Purpose: To modernize agricultural education and research under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
- Focus Areas:
- Incorporating technology such as Digital DPI, AI, big data, and remote sensing.
- Promoting natural farming and climate resilience.
- Impact: Aligns agricultural research and education with the New Education Policy 2020, incorporating the latest technologies to improve education and research outcomes.
Sustainable Livestock Health and Production
- Purpose: To improve livestock health and increase farmers’ income from dairy and livestock.
- Focus Areas:
- Animal health management and veterinary education.
- Dairy production and technology development.
- Animal genetic resource management.
- Animal nutrition and small ruminant production.
- Impact: Aims to enhance livestock productivity and farmer incomes through better health management and technology.
Sustainable Development for Horticulture
- Purpose: To boost income from horticulture through diverse crop categories.
- Focus Areas:
- Tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate crops.
- Root, tuber, bulbous, and arid crops.
- Vegetables, floriculture, mushrooms, spices, medicinal, and aromatic plants.
- Impact: Supports the growth of various horticultural crops, leading to increased farmer income and diversified production.
Strengthening Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
- Purpose: To enhance the capacity of KVKs, which provide agricultural extension services and training.
- Impact: There are over 700 KVKs in India, and this funding will improve their infrastructure and capacity to serve farmers better.
Natural Resource Management
- Purpose: To manage natural resources more sustainably.
- Impact: Aims to address issues related to soil, water, and other critical natural resources essential for agriculture.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q2. Match the Following
Options:
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Q. With reference to organic farming in India, consider the following statements: 2021
1. The National Programme for Organic Production’ (NPOP) is operated under the guidelines and directions of the Union Ministry of Rural Development. 2. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority’ (APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the implementation of NPOP. 3. Sikkim has become India’s first fully organic State. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer. b |
| Answer 2- A
Explanation
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Supreme Court pulled up AYUSH Ministry over Rule 170 of Drugs Act
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 Judiciary, Acts
Context: Explanation of Rule 170 and Its Challenges
Why in News
- Rule 170 was introduced to regulate misleading advertisements of AYUSH medicines, ensuring that advertisements are truthful and substantiated.
What is Rule 170?
- Enacted in 2018: Rule 170 was introduced to regulate the advertisement of Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani (AYUSH) medicines in India.
- Objective: To control misleading advertisements and ensure that AYUSH products are marketed responsibly.
Key Provisions
- Approval Requirement: AYUSH drug manufacturers must obtain approval and a unique identification number from the state licensing authority before advertising their products.
- Submission Requirements: Manufacturers must submit details such as:
- Textual references from authoritative books.
- Rationale for the medicine’s use.
- Evidence of safety, effectiveness, and quality.
- Restrictions: The rule prohibits advertisements that:
- Lack contact details of the manufacturer.
- Contain obscene or vulgar content.
- Make claims about enhancing sexual organs.
- Use testimonials from celebrities or government officials.
- Refer to government organizations or make misleading claims.
Background
- Parliamentary Concern: The rule was introduced following concerns raised by a parliamentary standing committee about misleading claims and the need for stricter regulation.
- Licensing: AYUSH drug manufacturers, like those of allopathic medicines, must obtain a license from the drug controller.
Comparison with Allopathic Medicines
- Clinical Trials:
- Allopathic Medicines: Require extensive clinical trials (Phase I, II, III) to prove safety and efficacy.
- AYUSH Medicines: Clinical trials are not mandatory. Approval can be based on traditional texts and, for certain ingredients, proof of effectiveness is needed.
Special Cases
- Specific Ingredients: For drugs containing potentially hazardous ingredients (e.g., snake venom, heavy metals), safety trials are required.
- Traditional Uses: AYUSH drugs used for new indications must provide evidence of effectiveness as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Why Did the AYUSH Ministry Direct Licensing Authorities to Ignore Rule 170?
Background of the Directive
- Advisory Board Recommendation: In May 2023, the Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani Drugs Technical Advisory Board (ASUDTAB) suggested that Rule 170 could be omitted. This recommendation was based on ongoing amendments to the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act (DMRA), which also deals with misleading advertisements.
Reasons for the Directive
- Overlapping Regulations: The AYUSH ministry’s directive reflects a view that Rule 170 might be redundant or conflicting with the changes being considered in the DMRA.
- Regulatory Streamlining: The ministry likely aims to streamline regulatory processes and avoid duplication or confusion arising from overlapping laws.
AYUSH
- AYUSH is the acronym of the medical systems that are being practised in India such as:
- Ayurveda: Ancient system emphasising holistic well-being.
- Yoga: Union of body, mind, and spirit through physical postures and meditation.
- Naturopathy: Natural healing using elements like water, air, and diet.
- Unani: Balance restoration through herbal medicines and humoral theory.
- Siddha: Traditional Tamil medicine with roots in five elements and humours.
- Homoeopathy: Highly diluted remedies stimulating self-healing responses.
- These systems are based on definite medical philosophies and represent a way of healthy living with established concepts on prevention of diseases and promotion of health.
- The Ministry of AYUSH, is responsible for developing education, research and propagation of AYUSH in India.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q3. Consider the following statements
Options:
|
Q. Match List I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the lists: (CDS 2019)
List – I (Institute) List II (Location) A. National Institute of Ayurveda 1. Chennai B. National Institute of Homoeopathy 2. Bengaluru C. National Institute of Unani Medicine 3. Kolkata D. National Institute of Siddha 4. Jaipur a. A – 1, B – 2, C – 3, D – 4 b. A – 1, B – 3, C – 2, D – 4 c. A – 4, B – 3, C – 2, D – 1 d. A – 4, B – 2, C – 3, D – 1 Ans c |
| Answer 3- A
Explanation
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UNICEF issues emergency tender to secure mpox vaccines with Africa CDC, Gavi and WHO
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology
Context: United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), emergency tender to secure mpox vaccines
Why in News
- The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has issued an emergency tender to secure mpox vaccines for crisis-hit countries in collaboration with the Gavi vaccine alliance, Africa CDC and the World Health Organization.
Overview
- The recent announcement by UNICEF, in collaboration with the Gavi vaccine alliance, Africa CDC, and the World Health Organization (WHO), involves a critical initiative to address the spread of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in crisis-affected countries.
Key Points
- Emergency Tender for Mpox Vaccines:
- UNICEF has issued an emergency tender to secure vaccines for mpox. This tender is a formal request to vaccine manufacturers to supply vaccines that can be used in crisis-hit areas.
- The aim is to ensure quick access to vaccines for countries in need, particularly those currently experiencing outbreaks.
- Potential Vaccine Supply:
- Depending on the production capacity of vaccine manufacturers, up to 12 million doses could be secured through this initiative by 2025.
- This means that agreements will be made with manufacturers who can produce these vaccines, ensuring that they are available when needed.
- Conditional Supply Agreements:
- UNICEF plans to set up conditional supply agreements with manufacturers. These agreements are important because they allow UNICEF to purchase and ship vaccines as soon as all necessary conditions are met.
- These conditions include securing financing, confirming demand from affected countries, ensuring the countries are ready to receive and distribute the vaccines, and meeting regulatory requirements.
- Global Public Health Emergency:
- The WHO declared mpox a global public health emergency due to an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that has spread to neighboring countries.
- The outbreak in the DRC has led to over 18,000 suspected cases and 629 deaths so far this year, highlighting the severity of the situation.
- Additionally, more than 150 cases have been confirmed in Burundi, raising concerns about the spread of the virus in the region.
Importance of the Initiative
- The collaborative effort between UNICEF, Gavi, Africa CDC, and WHO is crucial in controlling the spread of mpox, especially in countries that are already facing significant challenges.
- The tender allows for a swift response to emerging health crises, ensuring that vaccines can be delivered promptly to where they are most needed, potentially saving thousands of lives.
Overview of UNICEF:
- The United Nations Children’s Fund, commonly known as UNICEF, is a global organization dedicated to the welfare of children around the world.
- Established after World War II, UNICEF plays a crucial role in advocating for and protecting the rights of children, particularly in areas affected by poverty, conflict, and natural disasters.
- Founded: December 11, 1946, by the United Nations General Assembly.
- Initial Purpose: Originally created to provide emergency food and healthcare to children in countries devastated by World War II.
- Current Mission: UNICEF’s mission is to promote the rights and well-being of every child. This involves providing long-term humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and mothers in developing countries.
Funding:
- UNICEF is funded entirely by voluntary contributions from governments, private donors, and partners. It relies on these contributions to carry out its mission and implement its programs.
- The organization also raises awareness and funds through campaigns, partnerships, and advocacy efforts.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. Which of the following statements regarding the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to (2016)
(a) immunization of children and pregnant women (b) construction of smart cities across the country (c) India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space (d) New Educational Policy Ans: A |
| Answer 4-C
Explanation:
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Ramon Magsaysay award 2024
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: Awards and Honours
Context: Ramon Magsaysay Award 2024
Why in News
- The 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees are Karma Phuntsho from Bhutan, Miyazaki Hayao from Japan, the Rural Doctors Movement from Thailand, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong from Vietnam, and Farwiza Farhan from Indonesia.
Hayao Miyazaki’s Achievements:
- Background: Miyazaki was born on January 5, 1941, in Tokyo. His interest in aviation, stemming from his family’s aeroplane part-manufacturing business, influenced much of his work.
- Career Beginnings: He graduated with a degree in economics and joined Tōei Animation in 1963, where he met key collaborators, including Isao Takahata. His early work includes contributions to series like Heidi, Girl of the Alps and Ōkami shōnen Ken.
- Founding Studio Ghibli: In 1985, Miyazaki co-founded Studio Ghibli with Takahata and Toshio Suzuki. The studio aimed to create animation that explored deep human emotions and creativity, deviating from conventional themes.
- Iconic Films: Miyazaki directed several beloved films, including My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Porco Rosso, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away (which won an Academy Award), and Howl’s Moving Castle.
- Later Years and Awards: Despite announcing retirement, Miyazaki returned to filmmaking with The Boy and The Heron, released globally last year and acclaimed for its meticulous craftsmanship and storytelling. His body of work has earned him numerous accolades, including an honorary Oscar in 2015.
Farwiza Farhan
- Farwiza Farhan, an Indonesian conservationist, was deeply moved upon receiving the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for Emergent Leadership in 2024.
- This award, often referred to as Asia’s Nobel Prize, recognizes individuals or organizations in Asia who have demonstrated remarkable leadership in their fields, particularly in addressing social, environmental, and humanitarian challenges.
Contributions to Environmental Conservation:
- Farwiza Farhan is the founder of the conservation NGO Hutan Alam dan Lingkungan Aceh (HAkA), which has been at the forefront of efforts to protect the Leuser Ecosystem, one of the most critical biodiversity hotspots in the world, located in northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
- The Leuser Ecosystem is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Sumatran orangutan, tiger, and rhinoceros.
- Farwiza’s work has been instrumental in securing a significant $26 million court fine against a palm oil company that was found guilty of violating environmental regulations in the Leuser Ecosystem.
- This legal victory was a landmark achievement in the fight against illegal deforestation and the destruction of natural habitats in the region.
- In addition, she played a crucial role in halting a dam project that posed a serious threat to the Leuser Ecosystem.
- Her efforts ensured the preservation of this vital area, which is not only essential for biodiversity but also for the livelihoods of local communities.
Thailand’s Rural Doctors Movement
- The Rural Doctors Movement (RDM) has been honored with the 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Award for its significant and ongoing contributions to improving healthcare for the Thai people.
- The Ramon Magsaysay Award, considered one of Asia’s highest honors, is awarded to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact in their respective fields.
- Contribution to Healthcare: The RDM is being recognized for its pivotal role in advancing healthcare in Thailand, particularly for the rural and underserved populations.
- The movement is a combination of two key organizations:
Rural Doctor Society (RDS): Established on April 25, 1976.
Rural Doctor Foundation (RDF): Founded on March 15, 1982.
Karma Phuntsho
- Karma Phuntsho, a distinguished scholar and thought leader from Bhutan, will be honored with the 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Award.
- This prestigious award, often referred to as Asia’s Nobel Prize, is recognized for celebrating individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities through exceptional leadership and service.
Contributions and Achievements:
- Cultural Harmony: Karma Phuntsho has been recognized for his efforts to harmonize Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage with the modern challenges faced by the country. His work emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional values and cultural practices into contemporary life, thereby fostering a sense of pride and continuity among the Bhutanese people.
- Preservation Efforts: Through the Loden Foundation, which he founded in 1999, Phuntsho has played a key role in preserving Bhutan’s cultural heritage. The foundation has undertaken various initiatives, including digital documentation of Bhutanese culture, which helps to safeguard and promote the country’s unique cultural legacy.
Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong
- Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong, a Vietnamese doctor and dedicated advocate for the victims of Agent Orange, has been honored with the 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Award.
- This prestigious award is often referred to as Asia’s Nobel Prize and recognizes individuals or organizations for their outstanding contributions to public service and humanitarian efforts.
Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong’s Contributions:
- Personal Experience and Dedication:
- Initial Encounter with Birth Defects: During the Vietnam War, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong, then a medical student, witnessed numerous severe birth defects in newborns but initially lacked understanding of the underlying cause. This profound experience motivated her to dedicate her life to investigating the impact of Agent Orange.
- Uncovering the Truth: Phuong devoted her career to researching the effects of Agent Orange and advocating for the victims. Her work has been crucial in raising awareness about the health impacts of this toxic chemical and seeking justice for those affected.
- Work with VAVA:
- Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin (VAVA): Phuong has been actively involved with VAVA, an organization dedicated to supporting victims of Agent Orange and their families. Through her efforts, she has provided critical aid and support to individuals suffering from the long-term consequences of the chemical exposure.
Ramon Magsaysay Award:
- The Ramon Magsaysay Award is one of Asia’s highest honors, awarded to individuals or organizations demonstrating “greatness of spirit in selfless service to the peoples of Asia.”
- It was established in 1957 in honor of the late Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay.
- Categories and Recipients: Originally awarded in six categories, the award now focuses on emergent leadership. Over the years, 322 individuals and 26 organizations from 22 Asian nations have received this award. Notable recipients include Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray and Carnatic vocalist M.S. Subbulakshmi.
- 2024 Awardees: In addition to Miyazaki, the 2024 awardees include Bhutan’s Phuntsho Karma, Vietnamese doctor Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong, Indonesian conservationist Farhan Farwiza, and the Rural Doctors Movement from Thailand. These individuals and organizations have made significant contributions to their respective fields and will be honored in a ceremony in Manila this November.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||||
Q5. Match the following 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees with their respective countries:
Select the correct option: a) A-2, B-1, C-5, D-4, E-3 |
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 5 – A
Explanation: A. Karma Phuntsho is from Bhutan. B. Miyazaki Hayao is from Japan. C. Rural Doctors Movement is from Thailand. D. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong is from Vietnam. E. Farwiza Farhan is from Indonesia.
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