PIB Summary- 22th June, 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Research Priority Settings in Traditional Medicine

Context

The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, is organizing a landmark National Consultative Meet on “Research Priority Settings in Traditional Medicine” in collaboration with WHO-SEARO and WHO-GTMC. Scheduled for June 24, 2024, in New Delhi, this event aims to align traditional medicine research in India with global standards and priorities.

Objectives of the National Consultative Meet

• Aimed at identifying and prioritizing key research areas across Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathy.
• In accordance with WHO’s directives on Traditional Medicine.

Participants and Stakeholders

• Policymakers, academic institutions, researchers, patients, and industry stakeholders from the traditional medicine sector.
• Involvement of key officials from Ministry of Ayush, NITI Aayog, Ayush research councils, National Commissions, Ayush universities, and other relevant organizations.

Key Topics and Focus Areas

• Medicinal plant research, quality, safety, and efficacy studies.
• Pre-clinical validations, clinical trial monitoring, and rational use of traditional medicines.
• Digitalization of ancient medical literature and medical anthropology.

Significance of the Meet

• Strategic Research Roadmap: Aims to chart a research roadmap for the next decade in traditional medicine. Ensures effective utilization of resources and addresses critical research gaps.
• Global Integration and Acceptance: Supports the global acceptance and integration of traditional medicine practices. Positions India as a leader in traditional medicine research aligned with international standards.

The Telecommunications Act, 2023

Context

The Telecommunications Act, 2023 represents a significant overhaul of India’s regulatory framework governing telecommunications, marking a departure from century-old colonial laws such as the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933. Enacted to accommodate rapid technological advancements and bolster national development, the Act embodies principles of inclusivity, security, growth, and responsiveness.

Pillars of Progress

• Aims to bridge the digital divide by ensuring telecommunication services reach underserved rural and remote areas.
• Expands the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) to support universal services and technological innovations.

Suraksha (Security):

• Empowers the government to set standards and ensure conformity assessment for telecommunication services and networks to enhance national security.
• Provides robust provisions for safeguarding public safety and addressing cybersecurity concerns.

Vriddhi (Growth):

• Establishes a streamlined Right of Way (RoW) framework for telecommunication infrastructure, promoting ease of installation and reducing disputes.
• Facilitates the creation of common ducts and cable corridors under the PM Gati Shakti initiative to accelerate infrastructure development.

Tvarit (Responsiveness):

• Introduces a digital-first approach for implementation, incorporating online dispute resolution mechanisms and digital frameworks.
• Sets clear definitions and terminologies to enhance regulatory clarity and investor confidence.

Salient Features

• Definitions: Provides clear definitions to reduce ambiguity and facilitate ease of doing business in the telecom sector.
• Right of Way (RoW) Framework: Defines RoW provisions for both public and private properties, ensuring non-discriminatory access and minimal disputes. Mandates that telecommunication infrastructure remains distinct from underlying properties to ease transfer and leasing.
• Common Ducts: Authorizes the establishment of common ducts and cable corridors by the Central Government to expedite infrastructure deployment.
• Telecommunication Standards: Grants powers to set standards for telecommunication services and networks to bolster national security and promote indigenous technologies.
• National Security and Public Safety: Incorporates stringent measures to protect national security interests and ensure public safety through telecommunication services.
• Innovation and Technology Development: Expands USOF to support R&D in telecommunication services and technologies, fostering innovation and pilot projects.
• Introduces Regulatory Sandbox to facilitate the deployment of new technologies and innovations in the sector.
• Protection of Users: Implements measures to protect users from unsolicited commercial communications and establishes a grievance redressal mechanism.

Digital Transformation
Digital Implementation:

• Emphasizes a digital-by-design approach to streamline operations and enhance efficiency in the sector.
• Introduces online dispute resolution mechanisms and digital frameworks to facilitate smooth transition and operations.

Transitional Provisions
Continuation Framework:

• Enforces sections 61 and 62 to maintain continuity with the existing regulatory framework until new rules are formulated.
• Ensures a conducive environment for businesses and stakeholders during the transition period.

Significance

• The Telecommunications Act, 2023 signifies a landmark shift towards modernizing India’s telecommunications sector, aligning regulatory frameworks with global standards, and fostering inclusive growth and innovation. 
• By addressing critical areas such as infrastructure development, security, digital transformation, and user protection, the Act aims to propel India towards becoming a developed nation in the digital age.

(BIS) two new standards, IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024 for electric vehicles

Context

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has recently introduced two new standards, IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024, aimed at enhancing the safety and quality of electric vehicles (EVs) in India. These standards are designed to address critical components such as the powertrain and batteries across different categories of EVs.

IS 18590: 2024

• Focus: Enhancing safety standards for electric vehicles in categories L, M, and N.
• Key Areas: Emphasis on the powertrain’s safety and performance requirements.
• Objective: Ensure EVs meet stringent safety criteria to enhance reliability and safety for users.

IS 18606: 2024

• Objective: Address safety and performance standards specifically for EV batteries.
• Importance: Ensures batteries are powerful, secure, and meet performance expectations.
• Focus: Covers aspects critical to battery safety and performance in EV applications.

IS 18294: 2023 (E-rickshaws and E-Karts)

• Purpose: Establish safety standards tailored for E-rickshaws and E-Karts.
• Coverage: Includes construction, functionality, and operational safety.
• Significance: Ensures safety of drivers and passengers in these increasingly popular electric vehicles.

Overall Impact

• Enhanced Safety: These standards contribute to safer EV operation and usage.
• Quality Assurance: Ensures EV components meet high-quality benchmarks.
• Regulatory Compliance: Facilitates adherence to regulatory requirements in the EV sector.
• Industry Development: Supports growth by standardizing manufacturing and enhancing consumer confidence.
• Environmental Benefits: Promotes the transition to cleaner and sustainable transportation options.

Significance

• The introduction of IS 18590: 2024, IS 18606: 2024, and IS 18294: 2023 underscores BIS’s commitment to promoting safe and high-quality electric vehicles in India. 
• With a total of 30 standards dedicated to EVs and related accessories, including charging systems, BIS aims to foster a robust ecosystem that prioritizes safety, performance, and environmental sustainability.