UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 30th September 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

Dead Coral Skeletons hinder Reef Regeneration

Source: MSN

Why in News?

A recent study conducted in Moorea, French Polynesia, has highlighted how the remnants of dead coral skeletons, left behind by coral bleaching events, obstruct the natural regeneration of coral reefs.

About Corals

• Corals are marine invertebrates composed of genetically identical organisms known as polyps.
• Polyps engage in a mutualistic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, residing within their tissues.
• Zooxanthellae carry out photosynthesis, supplying corals with carbohydrates, while corals provide essential compounds needed for the algae's photosynthetic process.
• Corals possess calcium carbonate skeletons, which are crucial in forming the structure of the reef.
• Coral colonies are formed by the aggregation of thousands of polyps, which multiply and expand over time.
• Coral reefs are underwater ecosystems created by the accumulation of coral structures, often referred to as the "rainforests of the seas," as they offer a habitat and protection for a diverse range of marine life.
• These reefs are constructed by both hard and soft corals and expand as more corals attach to the existing reef structure.
• Coral reefs are the largest living structures on Earth and play a vital role in supporting marine biodiversity.

Challenges due to Dead Corals

• Shelter for Seaweed: The complex structure of dead coral skeletons provides a refuge for macroalgae (seaweed), making it difficult for herbivores to access and graze on them. This enables seaweed to rapidly colonize the reef, outcompeting juvenile corals.
• Impeded Herbivory: The intricate landscape of dead corals limits the ability of herbivores to effectively graze on algae, leading to unchecked algal growth.
• Increased Competition: Macroalgae grow and reproduce at a faster rate than coral, intensifying the competition for space, light, and nutrients, thereby inhibiting the growth and settlement of young corals.
• Annual Coral Reproduction: Corals typically spawn just once a year, while algae have the capacity to reproduce continuously. This gives algae a competitive edge in occupying space left by dead coral.
• Altered Ecosystem Balance: The presence of dead corals disrupts the natural balance among herbivores, algae, and coral, complicating the reef's ability to regenerate organically.

Conditions for Reef Regeneration

• Flat Substrate: After disturbances such as cyclones that remove coral but leave a flat surface, reefs can recover more easily as young corals can settle and grow without substantial competition from macroalgae.
• Herbivore Activity: Active grazing by herbivores is essential for reef recovery, as they control the proliferation of macroalgae, providing space for coral recruits to settle and flourish.
• Clear Space for Coral Recruits: For effective regeneration, corals need open areas free from excessive algal cover. The removal of dead coral skeletons could help create these favorable conditions.
• Frequent Disturbances: Coral reefs are better equipped to recover from frequent but non-lethal disturbances, like storms, which can remove coral and promote fresh regrowth, compared to bleaching events that leave dead structures intact.
• Water Quality and Temperature: Successful coral recovery hinges on optimal water conditions, including the absence of pollutants and suitable temperature ranges.

GS3/Economy

10 Years of Make in India

Source: PIB

Why in news?

Launched on September 25, 2014, by PM Modi, the "Make in India" initiative marked a pivotal shift in India's economic strategy. The 10th anniversary of the initiative in 2024 celebrates its success in reinvigorating the Indian economy, boosting global competitiveness, and setting India on a path to self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

Make in India (MII)

Make in India is a flagship initiative aimed at transforming India into a global manufacturing powerhouse by creating a conducive environment for manufacturing and innovation.

Background

The initiative was launched in response to India’s economic challenges, where the growth rate had declined to its lowest in a decade by 2013. With the promise of the BRICS nations fading, India was labeled as one of the 'Fragile Five'. This situation prompted the need for a significant economic boost.

About

The "Make in India" initiative seeks to establish India as a global hub for manufacturing and design, fostering a robust manufacturing ecosystem to enhance economic stature and create jobs.

Key Sectors Under MII

• Manufacturing Sectors:
  • Aerospace and Defence
  • Automotive and Auto Components
  • Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
  • Biotechnology
  • Textiles and Apparels
  • Chemicals and Petrochemicals
  • Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM)
  • Food Processing
  • Gems and Jewellery
  • Railways
• Service Sectors:
  • Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services (ITeS)
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Medical Value Travel
  • Transport and Logistics Services
  • Accounting and Finance Services
  • Audio Visual and Legal Services

Pillars of MII

Several key initiatives form the backbone of the Make in India program, driving its success and implementation.

Major initiatives under MII

• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes: The PLI schemes have allocated a substantial financial support of ₹1.97 lakh crore ($26 billion) across 14 key sectors, including electronics, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. By 2024, these schemes resulted in 755 approved applications, attracting ₹1.23 lakh crore in investment and creating approximately 8 lakh jobs.
• PM GatiShakti: Introduced in 2021, PM GatiShakti is a national infrastructure initiative designed to achieve multimodal connectivity through the integration of transportation, energy, and communication sectors. This program involves 36 ministries and aims to improve logistics efficiency.
• Semiconductor Ecosystem Development: The government initiated the Semicon India Programme with an outlay of ₹76,000 crore to foster self-reliance in semiconductor technology.
• National Logistics Policy (NLP): Launched in 2022, NLP works in conjunction with PM GatiShakti, focusing on reducing logistics costs and enhancing India’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI). This initiative aims to streamline logistics via digital systems and standardization.
• Industrialization and Urbanization: The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme is the largest infrastructure initiative in India, aimed at creating "Smart Cities" and advanced industrial hubs, promoting manufacturing growth and urbanization.
• Startup India: Launched in January 2016, this initiative supports entrepreneurs and aims to establish a robust startup ecosystem, with India being the third-largest startup ecosystem by September 2024.
• Tax Reforms: The introduction of GST on July 1, 2017, unified India’s tax system, creating a common market across 36 states and union territories.
• Unified Payments Interface (UPI): India’s UPI has become a leader in digital payments, processing a significant portion of the world’s real-time transactions.
• Ease of Doing Business: India has made impressive strides in enhancing its business environment, significantly improving its ranking in the World Bank’s Doing Business Report.
• Record FDI to Boost MII: Record Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows have significantly supported MII, with inflows increasing from $45.14 billion in 2014-15 to a record $84.83 billion in 2021-22.

Key Achievements

• Manufacturing Growth: India has become the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer worldwide, with mobile exports growing substantially since 2014.
• Self-Reliance in Defence: India has made notable advancements in defence production, launching its first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, and exporting to over 90 countries.
• Global Export Growth: Merchandise exports reached $437.06 billion in 2023-24, showcasing India’s increasing role in global trade.
• Employment Creation: The initiative has created millions of jobs across various sectors, with specific schemes generating significant employment opportunities.
• Other achievements: Kashmir willow bats gained global popularity, Amul expanded its dairy products to the US, and the textile industry significantly contributed to job creation.

Criticism

• Experts indicate that the initiative has not effectively increased manufacturing's share in GDP or attracted substantial investments.
• Manufacturing jobs remain scarce, with the sector’s value addition declining from 16.7% in 2013-14 to 15.9% in 2023-24.
• Net FDI inflows also decreased from 1.5% of GDP in 2013-14 to 0.8% in 2023-24.

Challenges

• The ease of doing business in India is still not as favorable as reported.
• High taxation rates and challenges in tax litigation hinder business operations.
• There is a lack of skilled labor in India, coupled with competition from countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh in low-skilled manufacturing.

Conclusion

As "Make in India" approaches its second decade, it reflects India’s commitment to transforming its manufacturing landscape and enhancing its global competitiveness. Strategic reforms, such as PLI schemes and infrastructure initiatives, have positioned India as a self-reliant economy, with indigenous projects signaling a promising future for its industrial sector.

GS1/Indian Society

92% of workers cleaning urban sewers, septic tanks from SC, ST, OBC groups: survey

Source: The Hindu

Why in news?

Recent government statistics from more than 3,000 urban local bodies across 29 States and Union Territories reveal that 91.9% of the 38,000 individuals engaged in sewer and septic tank cleaning belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Other Backward Classes (OBC).

Demographics

• A majority of the workers, specifically 91.9%, are from marginalized backgrounds.
• 68.9% belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), 14.7% are Other Backward Classes (OBC), 8.3% are Scheduled Tribes (ST), and 8% come from the general category.

Employment Status

• The workforce largely consists of low-income individuals performing hazardous and low-prestige jobs, reflecting ongoing caste-based inequality.

Capital Subsidies Support

• Since the initiation of the NAMASTE program, ₹2.26 crore in capital subsidies have been distributed to 191 beneficiaries, indicating some level of financial assistance for transitioning to self-employment.

Effectiveness of Current Policies and Rehabilitation Schemes

• NAMASTE Programme: This initiative focuses on mechanizing sewer cleaning and providing necessary safety training and equipment, acting as a successor to the Self-Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS).
• Enumeration Process: The profiling involves over 3,326 urban local bodies (ULBs), with 38,000 workers identified so far. However, 283 ULBs reported having no workers, raising concerns about the completeness of the profiling process.
• Rehabilitation Success: From 58,098 identified manual scavengers under the previous SRMS scheme, 97.2% were from SC communities. Although cash transfers of ₹40,000 were provided, only a small percentage opted for skills training or loans for alternative livelihoods.

Challenges Faced

• Social Stigma: Workers predominantly from marginalized communities (SC, ST, OBC) experience discrimination that restricts their access to better job opportunities and social advancement.
• Health Risks: Working in hazardous conditions poses significant health threats, with a reported high mortality rate (377 deaths between 2019 and 2023) due to unsafe practices.
• Ineffective Rehabilitation: Existing policies and support mechanisms often fall short of comprehensive coverage, leaving many workers unrecognized and limiting the effectiveness of financial aid and training programs.

Health Risks and Safety Measures for Workers in Hazardous Cleaning Roles

• Hazardous Working Conditions: Between 2019 and 2023, 377 workers lost their lives while engaged in hazardous cleaning tasks, underscoring the extreme dangers linked to sewer and septic tank cleaning.
• Safety Training: The NAMASTE program aims to offer safety training to mitigate health risks, although the effectiveness of this training requires further assessment.
• Equipment and Mechanization: The objective is to shift workers from manual cleaning methods to mechanized processes, thereby reducing their exposure to hazardous conditions and enhancing overall safety.

Way Forward

• Comprehensive Training and Support Programs: It is essential to improve the effectiveness of the current programs by offering robust safety training and resources, along with extensive outreach to ensure all workers, including the unrecognized, receive support.
• Promotion of Mechanization and Safety Standards: There is a need to expedite the mechanization of sewer cleaning operations to minimize health risks and establish stringent safety regulations to safeguard workers, ensuring consistent monitoring and enforcement.

GS3/Science and Technology

Neutrino Fog

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment has recently highlighted the growing importance of neutrino fog as we advance in dark matter detection methods.

What is the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) Experiment?

• The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment is a state-of-the-art dark matter detection initiative.
• It is situated deep underground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, USA.
• This experiment is among the most sensitive in the world, aimed at identifying dark matter particles, which are believed to constitute approximately 85% of the universe's total matter but have yet to be directly observed.
• At the core of the LZ experiment is a tank that contains 10 tonnes of liquid xenon, a dense and highly pure substance.
• The principle is that when a dark matter particle interacts with a xenon atom, it generates a minuscule flash of light and liberates electrons.
• These interactions are captured by advanced detection equipment surrounding the xenon tank.
• The experiment is located 1.5 kilometers beneath the Earth's surface to minimize interference from cosmic rays and other environmental factors.

What is Neutrino Fog?

• Neutrinos are subatomic particles often called "ghost particles" due to their extremely low mass and lack of electric charge.
• "Neutrino Fog" describes the interference caused by neutrinos in experiments designed to detect dark matter.
• Neutrinos are generated naturally during processes such as nuclear fusion in the Sun, supernova explosions, and interactions in Earth's atmosphere.
• Despite their ability to traverse most matter without detection, neutrinos can cause slight disturbances in sensitive detection devices.
• As dark matter detectors grow in size and sensitivity, they are increasingly likely to register these neutrino signals, which can create a "fog" that obscures or mimics genuine dark matter interactions.

GS1/Indian Society

Arogya Sanjeevani Policy

Source: Economic Times

Why in News?

The "Arogya Sanjeevani Policy" serves as a reference point for selecting health insurance for hospitalization.

About

• Launch Date: April 2020
• Issued by: Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)
• Objective: To offer fundamental and affordable health insurance coverage to all citizens.

Details

• Sum Insured: Ranges from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh per policy year.
• Coverage: Includes hospitalization, pre and post-hospitalization expenses, daycare procedures, AYUSH treatments, and COVID-19 coverage.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Coverage is available after 4 years of continuous policy renewal.
• Co-Payment: A co-payment of 5% is required on all claims.
• Premium: Varies according to age, sum insured, and insurer's policies.
• Waiting Period: A waiting period of 30 days for new policies and 48 months for pre-existing diseases.
• Daycare Procedures: Covers over 50 daycare treatments.
• Room Rent Limit: Up to 2% of the sum insured per day, with a maximum of ₹5,000 per day.
• ICU Room Rent: Up to 5% of the sum insured per day, with a maximum of ₹10,000 per day.
• AYUSH Treatments: Covers treatments under Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.
• Maternity Coverage: Not included in the policy.
• Network Hospitals: Provides a cashless facility in network hospitals.
• Eligibility: Individuals aged between 18 to 65 years.

PYQ:

[2019] Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to the absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of the policy process – Discuss.

GS2/Governance

With 2026 target approaching, clearing of 50% landfill sites in big cities yet to start

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

In the third year of the five-year Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Urban 2.0, major cities in India have made insufficient progress in clearing their landfill sites. Government reports indicate that only 38% of the total waste has been remediated, leaving a significant 62% still unprocessed.

Present State of Cities in India (related to legacy landfills):

• Inadequate Progress in Waste Remediation: As of now, only 38% of the waste in legacy landfills across significant cities has been addressed. A staggering 65% of the land remains uncleared.
• Slow Progress in Large Cities: Among cities with populations exceeding 1 million, 35 out of 69 landfill sites have seen no land cleared. Notably, the Deonar landfill in Mumbai, the largest in India, has not undergone any remediation.
• Challenges with Legacy and Fresh Waste: The ongoing issue of legacy landfills is compounded by the continuous deposit of fresh waste at these sites. This creates a vicious cycle where new waste hinders the clearance of older waste, thereby impeding remediation efforts.
• Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban 2.0 (SBM-U 2.0): Launched on October 1, 2021, this initiative aims for a "Garbage Free" India by 2026, focusing on sustainable sanitation, effective waste management, and enhancing urban cleanliness through initiatives such as door-to-door waste collection and remediation of legacy dumpsites.

What are the cities expected to do with reclaimed land?

• Reuse Plans for Cleared Land:According to the SBM Urban 2.0 guidelines, cities are expected to repurpose cleared land for productive uses, including:
  • Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF): Processing waste into RDF for utilization in waste-to-energy facilities.
  • Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling: Recycling cleared waste for infrastructure development.
  • Bio-soil: Utilizing reclaimed bio-soil for road construction and other land development initiatives.
• Limited Action on Reuse: Despite these outlined plans, the actual amount of land reclaimed from garbage dumps is minimal in many cities, and precise data on the use of reclaimed land is lacking. The current emphasis remains on remediation over immediate land reuse.

Way forward:

• Develop Alternative Waste Processing Sites: Cities need to establish dedicated facilities to manage fresh waste separately from legacy landfills to avoid hindering progress and ensure effective remediation.
• Accelerate Land Reuse Plans: There is a need to prioritize the rapid repurposing of reclaimed land for productive uses, including waste-to-energy projects, recycling of construction materials, and applications of bio-soil to ensure sustainable urban development.

Mains PYQ: How could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan? (UPSC IAS/2016)

GS3/Environment

Can a variety of rice address farm fires in Punjab & Haryana?

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The government is exploring different rice varieties to address the persistent problem of farm fires in Punjab and Haryana, which often occur due to stubble burning. One of the promising alternatives is the Pusa-2090 rice variety, which offers a similar yield to the commonly used Pusa-44 but can be harvested earlier, thereby reducing the need for stubble burning before wheat sowing.

Introduction to Pusa-2090

• Pusa-2090 was developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in 1993.
• This variety takes about 155-160 days to mature.
• It has a high yield potential, producing approximately 35-36 quintals per acre, and can sometimes yield up to 40 quintals.

Comparison with Other Varieties

• Pusa-44 is the favored variety among farmers but has a longer growing period, leading to late harvesting.
• PR-126 matures faster (123-125 days) but yields less (30-32 quintals per acre).
• The extra yield from Pusa-44 translates to additional earnings between Rs 9,280-11,600 at the government-set minimum support price of Rs 2,320 per quintal for 'Grade A' paddy.

Environmental Concerns with Pusa-44

• Pusa-44's long growing season results in late October harvesting, which does not leave enough time for wheat sowing.
• This timing often forces farmers to burn leftover straw and stubble, exacerbating air pollution in northern India from late October to mid-November.
• Despite a government ban and a decline in its cultivation from 39% in 2012 to 14.8% in 2023, Pusa-44 remains popular among many farmers who continue to use saved seeds.

Benefits of Pusa-2090

• Pusa-2090 is a cross between the early-maturing CB-501 and other high-yielding varieties.
• This new variety matures faster and produces yields comparable to Pusa-44.
• It maintains a high number of tillers and grains per panicle, which is essential for overall yield.
• The strong culm structure of Pusa-2090 reduces the risk of lodging during adverse weather conditions.
• It also requires fewer irrigations (5-6 less) compared to Pusa-44, promoting water conservation.

Market Acceptance and Milling Quality

• Pusa-2090 is seen as a viable alternative for farmers looking for both high yield and efficient use of resources.
• Farmers are considering this variety as a replacement for Pusa-44, especially in light of the latter's ban.
• Milling quality is crucial; PR-126 is often less favored due to its low rice recovery rate of 63%, which is below the acceptable standard of 67% set by the government.
• If Pusa-2090 can match the grain quality of Pusa-44, it could gain broader acceptance from millers.

GS2/Governance

Was animal fat present in Tirupati laddus?

Source: Mint

Why in News?

The ghee samples utilized by the ‘Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams’ for ritual offerings and ‘Laddu Prasadam’ have been found to contain foreign fats, including fish oil, beef tallow, and lard, as revealed by an analysis report from the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).

Findings by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)

• The Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food (CALF) identified that the ghee used for preparing laddus was contaminated with various types of fats.
• Types of adulterants found included:
  • Plant-based fats: soybean oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, linseed oil, wheat germ, maize germ, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, and palm kernel fat.
  • Animal-based fats: fish oil, beef tallow, and lard (which is derived from pigs).
• Existing Legal Framework
  • The Indian Penal Code (1860) addresses food adulteration under Section 272, but the penalties are often too lenient, resulting in inadequate deterrence against such practices.
  • The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 aims to unify food safety regulations; however, its enforcement is often weak due to a lack of resources and oversight.
• Implementation Challenges
  • Despite the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) setting stringent standards, enforcement is lacking. For example, many tests capable of detecting advanced forms of adulteration are infrequently performed due to insufficient testing facilities and trained staff.
  • A study by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) indicated that major honey brands were found to be adulterated with virtually undetectable syrups, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the current testing protocols.

Importance of Baseline Data Specific to Indian Context

• Biological Variation in Indian Cows: There is a need for baseline data tailored to Indian cows to achieve accurate results. Indian cow breeds may have unique genetic and biochemical characteristics compared to European breeds, meaning that existing international standards for detecting adulteration (like the ‘s-values’) may not be suitable for Indian cow ghee.
• Unique Adulterants in India: The types of adulterants commonly practiced in India, such as specific vegetable oils or animal fats, may vary from those found in other regions. Establishing baseline data for local adulterants will enhance the accuracy of detecting foreign fats used in India.
• Interpreting Results Accurately: Without specific data on the composition of Indian cow ghee, interpreting results from methods like gas chromatography becomes challenging. Customized baseline data ensures that detection methods yield accurate and relevant conclusions in the Indian context.

Recommendations for Improvement

• Strengthening Enforcement Mechanisms: It is crucial to increase resources allocated for testing facilities and to train personnel better to implement FSSAI standards effectively, ensuring regular checks for sophisticated forms of adulteration.
• Developing India-Specific Testing Protocols: Creating testing standards based on baseline data specific to Indian cows and local adulterants will improve the accuracy of detecting food adulteration.

GS3/Environment

What India Can Do to Reduce Food Wastage

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The issue of food loss and waste (FLW) poses a significant global challenge, impacting food security, environmental sustainability, and economic efficiency. Recognizing its importance, the United Nations has designated September 29 as the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (FLW). It is vital to assess the extent of food loss and waste, its environmental consequences, and the specific challenges and measures India can take to address these issues.

Global Impact of Food Loss and Waste

• According to a 2023 FAO report, food lost between harvest and retail constitutes 13.2% of global food production, while UNEP estimates that 17% of food is wasted during retail and consumption.
• Together, nearly 30% of global food production is lost or wasted annually. If merely half of this food were saved, it could feed all the world's hungry, advancing global hunger alleviation efforts.
• Moreover, reducing FLW would significantly decrease greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. FLW contributes 8-10% of global GHG emissions and accounts for 38% of total energy consumption in food production.

An Assessment on Causes of Food Loss in India

• Lack of Mechanisation
  • The All-India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS) of 2019 indicated that only 4% of cultivator households own tractors, and merely 5.3% possess essential farm equipment like power tillers, combine harvesters, or threshers.
  • Small and marginal farmers, who represent over 86% of agricultural households, frequently cannot afford such machinery. Consequently, manual harvesting methods are still prevalent, leading to increased food loss.
  • For example, the use of combine harvesters in paddy cultivation reduces grain losses compared to traditional methods, but mechanization is predominantly seen in regions like Punjab, where 97% of paddy-producing households utilize such equipment.
  • In contrast, only 10% of paddy farmers in Bihar have access to mechanized tools.
• Inadequate Cold Chain Infrastructure
  • The cold chain infrastructure in India is notably underdeveloped, especially for perishable items like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
  • Due to insufficient refrigeration and temperature-controlled transport, a significant portion of horticultural crops is lost before reaching the market.
  • Surveys indicate that nearly 50 MMT of horticultural crops are lost annually due to these deficiencies.
• Traditional Drying and Storage Methods
  • While sun drying is a cost-effective method, it exposes food to contamination from dust, pests, and inconsistent moisture levels, leading to quality deterioration and food loss.
  • Inadequate storage facilities contribute to post-harvest losses, with 10% of total food grain production lost due to insufficient storage infrastructure.
  • Without modern drying technologies like solar dryers or appropriate storage facilities such as warehouses and silos, farmers struggle to preserve their produce, particularly during monsoon seasons.
• Transportation and Supply Chain Inefficiencies
  • India's extensive geography, combined with poor rural road infrastructure, complicates the process of transporting crops from farms to markets.
  • During transit, perishable goods are particularly susceptible to spoilage due to exposure to heat, moisture, and handling damage.
  • Even non-perishable products like grains can incur losses due to poor handling and packaging during transportation.

Impact of Food Loss in India

• Economic Consequences
  • The financial implications of food loss in India are staggering, with an estimated Rs 1.53 trillion worth of food wasted each year.
  • This results in lost income for farmers, especially small and marginal farmers who cannot absorb these losses.
  • Food loss also negatively affects the country’s GDP, as agriculture constitutes a significant part of India’s economy.
  • The lost produce could have been sold domestically or exported, thereby diminishing potential revenue for both the government and farmers.
• Environmental Impact
  • Agriculture is resource-intensive, requiring substantial amounts of water, energy, and land. Thus, when food is lost or wasted, all resources used in its production are also squandered.
  • This is particularly concerning in India, given ongoing issues with water scarcity and land degradation.
  • Food discarded typically ends up in landfills, where it decomposes and emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
  • Reducing food loss would conserve resources and lower the country’s GHG emissions, aiding in the battle against climate change.
• Social and Food Security Implications
  • India ranks poorly in terms of hunger and malnutrition, according to the Global Hunger Index, with millions lacking sufficient nutritious food.
  • The significant amount of food lost each year, while millions go hungry, highlights systemic inefficiencies in the food supply chain.
  • If a portion of the post-harvest food loss could be mitigated, it would greatly enhance food security in the nation and reduce malnutrition, especially in rural regions.

Solutions to Address the Food Loss Problem in India

• Mechanization and Technological Interventions
  • Expanding mechanized farming equipment usage among small and marginal farmers is crucial for minimizing post-harvest losses.
  • Initiatives like Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) can facilitate access to machinery through group leasing or shared services.
  • Investing in green technologies, such as solar dryers and modern storage facilities, can further decrease losses, particularly for perishable items.
• Improving Cold Chain Infrastructure
  • Establishing a robust cold chain infrastructure is essential for minimizing spoilage of perishable products.
  • Government initiatives to stimulate private investment in cold chains, alongside public-private partnerships, can help bridge existing infrastructure gaps.
  • Increasing cold storage facilities and enhancing refrigerated transportation would allow farmers to extend the shelf life of their products and access broader markets, thereby reducing food loss.
• Policy Reforms
  • Policy interventions must ensure that small and marginal farmers can benefit from technological advancements and infrastructure improvements.
  • Revising the Jute Packaging Material Act (JPMA) to permit the use of airtight bags instead of jute bags could significantly decrease storage and transit losses.
  • Government programs offering subsidies for modern storage facilities, cold chains, and mechanized equipment would support farmers in minimizing food loss.
• Education and Awareness Campaigns
  • Educating farmers on best practices in harvesting, drying, and storage is vital for reducing losses.
  • Training programs focused on modern technologies, such as combine harvesters and solar dryers, can empower farmers to adopt more efficient methods.
  • Raising consumer awareness about food waste at the household level, particularly in urban areas where waste from events is significant, can help minimize food wastage.

Conclusion

• India’s food loss and waste issue presents both challenges and opportunities.
• Mitigating food loss is not only an economic necessity but a moral obligation, especially in a nation where millions endure hunger and malnutrition.
• By prioritizing effective solutions, India can contribute to global efforts to combat food loss and waste while fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.

GS2/Governance

Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Urban 2.0

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Urban 2.0, large cities have not cleared any land in half of their legacy landfill sites, with just 38% of the total dumped waste having been remedied so far.

Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM):

• About:
  • The Government of India launched the SBM on 2nd October 2014 to enhance universal sanitation coverage and emphasize sanitation efforts.
  • The mission comprises two main components - rural (SBM-Gramin, overseen by the Ministry of Jal Shakti) and urban (SBM-Urban, overseen by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs [MoHUA]).
  • All villages, Gram Panchayats, Districts, States, and UTs in India were mandated to declare themselves "open-defecation free" (ODF) by 2 October 2019, coinciding with the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Achievements:
  • As one of the largest cleanliness initiatives globally, SBM has significantly transformed society, yielding traceable benefits.
  • Numerous States have achieved a 100% ODF status and Individual Household Latrines (IHHL) coverage, greatly enhancing the dignity of individuals, particularly women.
  • The mission contributes to reducing gender disparity by constructing gender-specific latrines in public facilities such as schools, roads, and parks.
  • This public movement is expected to positively influence society by raising the enrolment ratio of girls in schools and improving overall health standards.

Analysing the SBM Urban 2.0:

• Launched in 2021, SBM Urban 2.0 aims to clear approximately 2,400 legacy landfill sites across the country by 2025-2026.
• Legacy waste dumpsites are areas where solid waste has been dumped and accumulated for years in an unregulated manner.
• Funding:
  • Cities must submit action plans to MoHUA for bioremediation of their legacy landfills to secure funding from SBM Urban 2.0.
• Process:
  • Waste is categorized to facilitate:
    • Creation of refuse derived fuel (RDF) for waste-to-energy plants.
    • Recycling of construction and demolition debris.
    • Production of bio-soil for road construction.
• Performance:
  • Out of 69 landfill sites (accounting for 57% of the total waste dumped in landfills across the country) in cities with populations exceeding 1 million, land has yet to be cleared at 35 sites.
  • Of a total area of 3,354 acres containing 1,258 lakh metric tonnes of waste in these 69 sites, 1,171 acres with 475 lakh MT of waste have been cleared thus far.
• Some success stories:
  • Ahmedabad has cleared 4.3 acres of land that contained 2.30 lakh tonnes of waste, which has now been transformed into an ecological park.
  • Nagpur's legacy landfill, encompassing 35 acres with 10 lakh metric tonnes of waste, has been completely cleared under the mission.
  • The bioremediation of this waste has produced refuse derived fuel and manure that is currently being sold. The site is now designated for an integrated waste management project.
  • Pune's landfill at Vanaz has been repurposed as a depot for the city’s Metro after clearance.
  • Lucknow's landfill at Ghaila, which covered 72 acres and contained 8 lakh tonnes of waste, has been cleared and is being transformed into a park named Rashtriya Prerna Sthal.

Challenges ahead:

• Despite notable advancements under the SBM, a significant amount of legacy waste and landfills still poses environmental, health, and spatial challenges for cities.
• Cities are tasked with clearing the remaining 65% of land and remediating 62% of the waste still present at legacy landfill sites, with less than two years remaining to complete the initiative.

Way ahead:

• Implementing proper planning before commencing the bioremediation process.
• Halting the dumping of fresh waste on sites undergoing remediation.
• Providing alternative locations for processing fresh waste.
• Avoiding the use of fine soil-like material generated from remediation sites as compost due to contamination risks from heavy metals.

GS3/Science and Technology

Hepatitis E Virus (HEV)

Source: The Hindu

Why in news?

Recent studies suggest that pigs could serve as a means of transmitting a strain of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) commonly found in rats, known as Rocahepevirus ratti or rat HEV.

Role of Pigs in Transmission

• HEV Reservoir: Pigs are known carriers of hepatitis E virus (HEV), particularly strains that can infect humans.
• Transmission via Pork: Humans may contract HEV by consuming raw or undercooked pork sourced from infected pigs.
• Environmental Contamination: Infected pigs can shed HEV through their feces, leading to environmental contamination and posing a risk of virus transmission to humans.
• Sanitation Issues: Poor sanitation on pig farms increases the likelihood of HEV transmission among pigs and elevates the risk of human infection through the food chain.
• Cross-Species Transmission: Pigs might also act as intermediaries for transmitting the virus from rats to humans, particularly in farming environments.

About Hepatitis E Virus (HEV):

• Hepatitis E is caused by a positive-sense, single-stranded, non-enveloped RNA virus.
• HEV is classified under the family Hepeviridae and the genus Orthohepevirus.
• It was first identified during an outbreak involving Soviet soldiers in Afghanistan in 1983.
• The earliest well-documented HEV epidemic occurred in New Delhi, India, in 1955, retrospectively identified as HEV.

Transmission:

• The primary route of HEV transmission is fecal-oral, often through contaminated food and water.
• Zoonotic transmission is possible with genotypes 3 and 4, which are commonly spread through undercooked meat or direct contact with infected animals.

Symptoms:

• Common symptoms include jaundice, nausea, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes.
• In severe cases, particularly among pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals, HEV can lead to liver failure.

Prevention and Cure:

• A vaccine known as HEV 239 is approved for use in China, but no vaccine is widely available or approved in most countries, including the United States.
• Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for acute HEV infection.
• Preventative measures focus on improved sanitation, access to safe drinking water, and proper food handling practices.

PYQ:

[2019] Which one of the following statements is not correct?

• (a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
• (b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
• (c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.
• (d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show symptoms for many years.