Rare earth elements and its Importance
Rare earth elements and its Importance Why in News? The US Army plans to fund the construction of a Rare Earths elements processing facility to secure the domestic supply of minerals that are used to make military weapons and electronics. “Rare earth” are a group of 17 chemically similar elements crucial to the manufacture of many hi-tech products. Despite their name, most are abundant in nature but are hazardous to extract. Most “rare earth” elements have used in several different fields, as well as those listed below. Neodymium: This is used to make powerful magnets used in loudspeakers and computer hard drives to enable them to be smaller and more efficient. Magnets containing neodymium are also used in green technologies such as the manufacture of wind turbines and hybrid cars. Lanthanum: This element is used in camera and telescope lenses. Compounds containing lanthanum are used extensively in carbon lighting applications, such as studio lighting and cinema projection. Cerium: Used in catalytic converters in cars, enabling them to run at high temperatures and playing a crucial role in the chemical reactions in the converter. Lanthanum and cerium are also used in the process of refining crude oil. Yttrium is used in the process of generating colour displays on devices such as television screens Praseodymium: Used to create strong metals for use in aircraft engines. Praseodymium is also a component of a special sort of glass, used to make visors to protect welders and glassmakers. Gadolinium: Used in X-ray and MRI scanning systems, and also in television screens. Research is also being done into its possible use in developing more efficient refrigeration systems. Yttrium, terbium, and europium: Important in making televisions and computer screens and other devices that have visual displays as they are used in making materials that give off different colours. Europium is also used in making control rods in nuclear reactors. Global Production of Rare Earths Global Production of Rare Earths Significant amounts of rare earth elements is produced in only a few countries. China is the dominant producer of Rare earth elements and is believed to be responsible for over 97% of the world mine production on a rare earth oxide equivalent basis. Other countries with notable production in 2009 were: India, Brazil, Kyrgyzstan and Malaysia. Minor production may have occurred in Indonesia, Commonwealth of Independent States, Nigeria, North Korea and Vietnam. Read Also Urban Naxalism However, because of their geochemical properties, rare earth elements are typically dispersed and not often found concentrated in economically exploitable ore deposits. RARE EARTH MINERALS IN INDIA Despite having reasonably large resources in the country, historically India does not have a place in the global rare earth industry ecosystem. As of 2017, China has 36.6% of world resources, followed by Vietnam which has 18.3% of resources while India holds about 6% of the world’s rare earth reserves. India, however, produces less than 2% of the total Rare Earth (RE) Oxide produced globally. This disparity highlights an underutilization of resources and at the same time, merely selling the oxides might not be the best strategy across all the rare earth elements. In India, certain REs are present in much larger quantities than others. These are Lanthanum, Cerium, Praseodymium, Neodymium, Samarium, Gadolinium, Yttrium and Dysprosium. Over the years India’s efforts have grown noticeably from being engaged in purely mining efforts to set up facilities that can separate high purity rare earth elements. These changes span decades from the 1950s to 2012. The setting up of separation plants PRYNCE and HERO by Indian Rare Earth Limited (IREL) allowed the separation of almost all rare earth elements, however, not all of these elements were commercialized. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. join now
India & Major Powers of the World GS 2 IR Notes by Ravisankar Sarma
India Major Powers India – U.S Introduction Through the years past independence, India-US relationship has transcended from one of estranged democracies to engaged democracies. The multi-dimensional and strategic nature of the cooperation in today’s geo-polity now faces problems of protectionism and strategic autonomy that need careful observation. Defence Relationship Procurement of Globemaster and Guardian Unmanned Ariel System Strategic Trade Authorization (STA-1): S has granted India STA-1 status that provides license-free exports, re-exports, transfers under the regime. Industrial Security Annex: As part of the 2+2 dialogue, there has been progress towards an ISA that can increase defence collaboration and cooperation Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI): Through the DTTI, the countries have moved closer to defence co-production and co-development and pursue defence innovation Economic Relationship India-U.S. Trade Policy Forum to achieve convergence on economic issues (refer below) Strategic Engagements 2+2 The South China Sea and Maritime Security: QUAD and MALABAR Counter-Terrorism: S supported the listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist and both governments have committed to sharing information on suspected terrorists and to implement the UNSC Resolution 2396 on returning foreign terrorist fighters Indo-US Nuclear Deal for the peaceful harnessing of nuclear energy in the current climate of energy insecurity and sustainability issues LEMOA COMCASA Present Issues Economic Issue H1B Visa Protectionism in trade and services: The U.S government ended the Generalised System of Preferences that enabled increased access of India’s exports to U.S marketà increased trade deficit India’s place in US Trade Body’s Special 301 Report Divergence of Interests at WTO: India’s Trade Policy: S has questioned India’s export incentives via the MEIS and Export promotion capital schemes at the WTO. India’s resistance to dairy and pork products from U.S and price reduction on medical devices are other points of divergence E-Commerce Trade War: The rise in tariffs on goods and services across both sides threaten the sustenance of free and fair global trade. This can dampen economic engagements and threaten India’s convergence to advanced economy Defence India’s purchase of Russian S-400 Triumf Air defence missile systems Strategic US-Iran-India India-Russia-China-US 2+2 Dialogue The 2 by 2 dialogue involves a platform for discussion between defence and foreign ministers of the 2 nations on security, defence, commercial and investment matters. Benefits of the 2 + 2 dialogue Security and Defence: 2+2 dialogue underlines Indo-US cooperation in realms of maritime security, army exercise and a free and open Indo-Pacific Commerce and Investment: The 2+2 dialogue can be seen as a platform where issues of trade and tariffs between India and U.S can be resolved to enlarge market access, drive job creation and economic development Strategic Cooperation: The 2+2 dialogue can be seen as culmination in the elevation of India and U.S from estranged partners to allied strategic major powers. U.S has similar dialogues with its critical allies Australia, Philippines and Japan while India has the same with Japan COMCASA Agreement COMCASA is Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement between India and U.S targeted to ensure interoperability of Indo-U.S. military equipment and ensure the security of C4ISR (command, control, computer, communication, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) operations to prevent it from leaking to foreign hands Significance of COMCASA Technology Transfer: COMCASA can help transfer avionics, encrypted communication and electronic systems to India that can help India achieve advanced and sensitive technology Multinational Operations: COMCASA can strengthen multinational operations in disaster relief and rescue with coordinated communication sourced from greater interoperability in matters of communication and equipment Information Exchange: COMCASA enables secure encrypted information exchange by enabling release of classified military information away from prying eyes of other countries. This can enable India to access big data base of American Intelligence Concerns Loss of Strategic Autonomy: COMCASA can help use gain further inroads into Indian warships and aircraft after LEMOA using American C4ISR systems Balancing Russia would become an even more difficult task with further alliance to U.S Asymmetrical Nature of agreement favours U.S more India’s tactical and operational security may be compromised as well as its security of data given the access of U.S systems to it Conclusion India needs to engage cautiously with U.S to maintain its strategic autonomy and resolve issues of trade to achieve convergence with advanced economies. It needs to cooperate where it can and resist where it must India-Russia Introduction: Russia has remained India’s all weather friend right from India’s tryst with destiny. India’s shifting from non-alignment to multi-alignment evidenced by its defence diversification and increased engagements to U.S has strained the cordial friendship shared by New Delhi and Moscow. Economic Relationship Connectivity Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor Connect Russia with South Asia, North-East Asia and the Pacific region Logistics Savings: Reduce time taken to transfer cargo from 40 days to 24 days through Europe Aims to leverage resource-rich far east Russian regions which has high investment potential Diversify India’s maritime trade route with South Asian and South-East Asian nations Cooperation in Nuclear Energy Field India and Russia signed the “Strategic Vision for Strengthening Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy” to collaboratively provide Russian designed Indian sourced nuclear power reactors in third world countries India is currently contemplating joining a trilateral cooperation with Bangladesh and Russia with regard to the Rooppur Nuclear power plant in Bangladesh. India currently uses Russian made nuclear reactors to produce atomic energy in Kudankulam and Russia has been actively providing technological and expertise assistance to India Conclusion In a rapidly changing geo-polity India-Russia relations are pivotal to India’s security in South Asia particularly given China’s peaceful rise and the growing nexus between these nations. New Delhi needs to engage constructively and multi-dimensionally with Russia using platforms of SCO and BRICS at its disposal to generate consensus. Read All notes by Ravisankar Sarma India-Japan Defence Cooperation India and Japan have decided to diversify and deepen their defence cooperation with cooperation in areas of anti-submarine warfare, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and technological cooperation Strategic Cooperation Asia-Africa Growth Corridor Respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty (Panchasheel Template) Aims to boost institutional and digital connectivity and enhance economic relations between regions with renewed focus on infrastructure development and cooperation Focus on skill development and establishment of people to people contact between Africa, South Asia, East and South East Asia and Oceania India can leverage its soft power, historical and political relations with Africa while Japan can contribute technologically and financially to supplement growth in the African region Win-win diplomacy for India, Japan and African nations Counter initiative to China’s BRI: The AAGC is India’s alternative to China’s cheque book
Governance for UPSC, GS 2 Notes By UPSC Topper Ravisankar Sarma
Governance for UPSC, GS 2 Notes By UPSC Topper Ravisankar Sarma Governance Focus Areas Role of Civil Services in Democracy Reforms in Civil Services Local Self-Governing Institutions Citizens Charter Right to Information Anti-Corruption bodies – CVC, Lokpal, CBI Minimum Government Maximum Governance E-Governance Digital India 2nd ARC Report Corporate Governance Service Delivery Mechanisms Aadhar and Service Delivery Why Aadhar? Transparency: Aadhar facilitates increased transparency where authentication is performed through digital identity. It limits human interventions and thus reduces avenues for corruption seamlessly integrating beneficiaries to entitlements Plugging Leakage of Subsidies: Aadhaar helps plug the enormous leakage of subsidies through corruption and ghost beneficiaries thus saving the government valuable money that helps in the rationalization of expenditure Social Welfare: Aadhaar can enable linkage with Bank accounts and mobile under JAM yojana where the physical presence of the beneficiary itself is not necessary thus increasing conveyance while facilitating transparency at the same time Eg: MGNREGA wages are directly transferred to accounts of employees Tax Evasion: Linking Aadhaar with PAN card can help the state to widen its tax base and mitigate tax evasion by increased monitoring with the help of Aadhaar database Security: Aadhar as a unique digital identity with biometric data and linkage with PAN can help in tackling issues of money laundering, tax evasion, finding missing persons and improved forensic study using biometrics Why not Aadhar? Exclusion Errors: Making Aadhaar mandatory may keep deserving beneficiaries outside thus depriving them of very basic needs like food grains. The state must avoid such instances like the one in Jharkhand where certain PDS beneficiaries died of starvation once they were denied food grains due to want of Aadhar. Important Legislations Notes by UPSC Topper Ravisankar Sarma Face ID has been introduced by UIDAI in a bid to avoid authentication errors and financial exclusion among people who have poor biometrics. This can be pertinent particularly among agricultural manual labourers and farmers whose biometrics are distorted due to intensive work. Violation of Right to Privacy: The Aadhar data that is available for companies on request raises privacy concerns of citizens. The lack of protection accorded to citizens Aadhar data that contains sensitive biological information due to lack of privacy laws may compromise the citizens fundamental right to privacy as identified by the Supreme Court in the Puttuswamy vs Union of India case under Article 21 Recently, the UIDAI launched Virtual ID which subverts the need of beneficiary to share Aadhar number thus providing the cardholder with an extra layer of security through a pseudo-aadhaar number. Security of Data: The UIDAI has overlapping powers regarding the maintenance, reporting and recovery in event of the data breach. There are hence concerns over accountability to ensuring the safety of sensitive biological information Danger of Surveillance State: Widening the purview of Aadhaar to bank accounts and sim cards raises the possibility of a surveillance state where citizens behavioural patterns are monitored by the state. This deprives the citizen of his fundamental right to a privacy-compromising dignified life. Supreme Court Judgement on Aadhar The SC upheld the constitutional validity of AADHAR pointing out that it is critical to ensuring basic services and amenities through the public governance system. As an ID system, AADHAR was effective in streamlining public resources and benefits eliminating errors of inclusion and exclusion. Points of the Verdict Constitutionally Valid: The Majority verdict identified Aadhar as a tool of good governance that was a reasonable restriction on the right of privacy. Permitted under Aadhar: Linking of PAN Filing of IT returns Access to government welfare programs and subsidies Struck down by Court Section 57: The AADHAR Act which provided that private companies shall demand AADHAR as an ID for services of telecom, education, mobile wallet and banking services is to be struck down as there was no rationale to this Education: CBSE, UGC, NET cannot demand AADHAR as ID for exam verification purposes Right to Information Act A movement led by Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangethan, an NGO in Rajasthan pressurised the government to amend the Official Secrets Act and bring the Freedom of Information Act. However, the wide scope for the exclusion of information and the lack of strong penalty led to a civil agitation that forced the government to adopt a rights-based approach. Right to information act was hence adopted granting citizens the right to know in matters of governance. The RTI is identified as a fundamental right under Article 19 (1)(A) of the constitution. Obligatory Provisions of the Act Maintenance of Records: Public authority should maintain all records duly indexed and categorized. This would enable easy access to sought records. Suo-Motto Disclosures: Public authority should adopt the principle of maximum suo-motto and pro-active disclosures. This would enhance transparency and reduce need for citizens to move via RTI request route Publication: Of directory of its offices and employees, particulars of its functioning Institutional Mechanism: All public authority must appoint Public Information Officers (PIOs) and Assistant PIOs who remain nodal points for a request of information and grievance redressal in case of exclusion of information. PIOs hence act as intermediaries between citizens and public authority with regard to information access. Time-bound Mechanism: PIOs transfer application to appropriate public authority within 5 days who are liable to respond within 30 days. PIOs decision can be challenged at first appellate authority while its own decision can be questioned before the State Information Commission. Information pertaining to life and liberty of individual shall be provided within 48 hours. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. join now
India and its Neighbours GS 2 Mains Notes by UPSC Topper Ravisankar Sarma
India-Myanmar Need for a Refugee Policy Introduction India is not a signatory to the UN Convention on Refugees and thus it has not adopted an asylum policy for those seeking refuge. The recent inflow of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar has triggered the debate for the need of a concrete refugee policy given the tempestuous neighbourhood of India. Why we need a Refugee Policy? The clarity in Asylum Provision: A clearly laid down policy offers greater clarity to those seeking refuge and makes India’s stand clear on the question of asylum. It limits the discretion of the government and thwarts arbitrary disapproval on the basis of ethnic, linguistic or regional identities. Currently, there exists a vacuum of legislation to deal with refugees. The Foreigners Act, 1946 is ill-equipped in this regard Upholding Civil Rights: As the largest democracy in the world, India has a duty to protect all individuals fleeing their home from persecution, natural disaster and violence Increased Goodwill: The drafting of a refugee policy concurrent to UN standards would considerably enhance India’s image in the geopolitical arena Stable Neighbourhood: India’s rejection of refugees may further intensify violence surrounding it in neighbouring nations. The current climate of political instability in several countries including Afghanistan, Myanmar and Pakistan evokes the need for a concrete refugee policy Prevent Alienation of States: The adoption of a favourable refugee policy would reduce the big brother attitude of India with regard to its relations with neighbours. Eg: Bangladesh had to bear the burden of Rohingya Refugees Challenges in adopting a Refugee Policy Pressure on Resources: India herself is strained by the lack of resources for its growing population. In such a situation, providing those inward with natural resources and social infrastructure can be a tough task Security Concerns: The influx of refugees raises concerns for India’s security due to the concern of infiltration of terrorists as well as the ethnic conflicts. Such conflicts have a higher likelihood of occurrence in North-East states which shares borders with many nations. Demographic Change: Refugees can substantially alter the demography of a region. This can upset the balance of the economy given the demand-supply disruptions in production and labour markets Loss of Strategic Autonomy: Drafting a clear cut policy would entail the parting of India’s strategic autonomy of making situation-based decisions on refugees. India would be forced to concur with the made policy even if national interests are perverse. Conclusion India needs to extend a healing touch and helping hand to those fleeing their homes with the quantum of resources at its disposal. It would redeem the glowing ideal of Vasudeiva Kudumbakam that shaped this nation. Issues of Refugees in India Refoulement: The UN Convention on Refugees illustrate the principle of non-refoulement that is no contracting state shall expel a refugee to frontiers where her life or freedom is threatened on account of race, religion, nationality or political affiliation. The Indian state has violated the convention on occasion where it has pushed back Rohingya and other refugees Limited Access to Services: The unclear legal status of refugees has raised concerns of their access to services- education, healthcare and social services Limited Livelihood Avenues: Many of the incoming refugees find it hard to earn a living due to changes in demography and social stigma associated with them. Xenophobia: The growing intolerance towards refugees compounded by polarised mobilizations have caused social tensions. This manifests in the worst form in discrimination for access to services, resources, employment and violence Victimization: Refugees have been targeted by anti-social elements for exploitation, oppression and trafficking activities. Limited Political Participation: Due to their smaller number, refugees do not possess any political mileage to channelize the government to act for them. This reduces their bargaining power on the state to provide them with rights on par with citizens. Loss of Culture: Refugees may end up assimilating the culture of the country in which they end up wither voluntarily or by compulsion or imposition. This cultural homogenization entails the loss of values of the unique culture of refugees. Way Forward Skill Development: In order to adapt to the demand-supply needs of the labour market, the refugees need to be skilled in compliance with industry demands. This can enable them to better their incomes and improve their standard of living Awareness Campaigns: Programs which bring together refugees and normal citizens can endeavour to break the ice of Xenophobia towards them. This can kindle the spirit of humanism and compassion inherent in all human beings Security Measures: Considering the vulnerability of refugees, the law and order machinery needs to take extra care in ensuring they are not trafficked or are not victims of violence Pressure Groups: Formal associations of refugees and civil society organizations can push the cause of refugees. They can make the state stand up and take notice of the deficiencies that plague the refugees Conclusion India’s commitment to the Global Compact on Refugees in the New York Declaration for Refugees underlines its commitment to socio-economic empowerment of refugees. India’s continued commitment for welfare of the world continues to increase. India Myanmar Introduction India and Myanmar’s long history of relationship has elevated with the instilling of a civilian government in Myanmar. China’s peaceful rise in South Asia and India’s aspirations to look east through north east entail Myanmar as key partner in shaping India’s Act East and ASEAN relations. Conclusion India must strive to change its outlook of viewing Myanmar through the prism of the Act East Policy and instead must look towards it as a partner in the SAARC neighbourhood ensuring peace and development in the South Asian Region. INDIA – AFGHANISTAN The recent U.S South Asia Policy puts India into the limelight of the Afghan Peace Process. As a tempestuous neighbour and the gateway to Central and West Asia, Afghanistan resembles the Heart of Asia for India that bleeds but provides an artery of trade to the Centre and West. Connectivity AIR Corridor It is a part of India’s Look West policy as well as the ‘Connect Central Asia’ policy which seeks to reduce connectivity barriers to Afghan and other central Asian countries which have been a major roadblock in having fruitful economic and foreign relations with the Central Asia countries Helps India to circumvent Pakistan and establish a trade route with Central Asia Trilateral agreement between India, Iran and Afghanistan to ensure multimodal
India and Indian Ocean Region Notes by UPSC Topper Ravisankar Sarma
Indian Ocean Region Introduction India’s position of South Asian Centrality in the Indian Ocean Region enables it to be the leader in realising its agenda of SAGAR drawing on cooperation between all Indian Ocean states. SAGAR Programme (Security and Growth for All in the Region): It is a maritime initiative which gives priority to the Indian Ocean region for ensuring peace, stability and prosperity of India in the Indian Ocean region. The goal is to seek A climate of trust and transparency Respect for international maritime rules and norms by all countries Sensitivity to each other`s interests Peaceful resolution of maritime issues Increase in maritime cooperation Indian Ocean Rim Association- Delhi Declaration Renewable Energy Development: Build a common agenda for renewable energy development and regional capacity building through the length and breadth of Indian ocean ensuring techno development and techno transfer International Collaboration: For renewable energy development, enable IRENA and ISA as fulcrum organization for capacity building, research and human resource convergence Global Renewable Energy Atlas: Create a comprehensive map and database of renewable energy resources throughout the Indian Ocean that can be used to tap the energy potential of the region Maiden Maritim Exercise of IONS Bangladesh has announced a first International Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (IMMSAREX) which would witness the participation of member nations and observers of IONS including India and China IMMSAREX can be a buffer to the increasing competition between navies in the Indian ocean region – China and Japan(Observers) and India, France, Iran and U.K (members) About IONS IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of littoral states of the Indian ocean by providing an open and inclusive platform for discussion of regionally relevant maritime issues IONS consists of 35 member countries grouped into West Asia, East Africa, South Asia and South-East Asia + Australia Objectives of IONS IONS is engaged in enhancing regional maritime security by adopting a common strategy and capacity building to resist challenges to maritime security It seeks to provide for Humanitarian and Disaster Relief, information security and interoperability measures in the IOR Conclusion India must utilize the various formal and informal multilateral platforms at its disposal to move towards a free and Open Indo Pacific guarded by multilateral security Architecture. The peaceful Indian Ocean can give a fillip to India’s blue economy and a gateway for trade-led growth. Assumption Island Scenario Location: Assumption Island is located in the Seychelles group of islands in western Indian ocean region proximate to East Africa and islands of Madagascar and west of Maldives. Current Scenario: Seychelles has cancelled an agreement with India for the development of Assumption Island Importance of Assumption Island and Impact of Cancellation Indian Ocean Surveillance: In addition to India’s presence at proximate islands of Madives and Madagascar, Assumption Island is a critical cog in complete surveillance of western and central Indian ocean. Loss of it would affect India’s SAGAR doctrine that aims to ensure freedom of navigation for all Strategic Choke Point: Assumption’s strategic location would have helped India wrest control of a strategic chokepoint similar to its control of the Malacca through A&N islands and deals with Vietnam and Singapore Piracy Issues: The eastward shifting of piracy line poses non-traditional threats to free navigation. Assumption Island’s loss is a blow to Indian efforts countering such threats. Read All Notes by Ravisankar Sarma Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. Join Now
GS 2 Governance Case studies for Mains Notes by UPSC Topper
State best Practices, Notes by UPSC Topper Ravisankar Sarma Sector State Name of Project Method Used Benefit Child Protection Odisha Sampark School student helpline 1. Brought accountability in the education system 2. Reduced teacher absenteeism 3. Platform to voice corporal punishment, and sexual abuse concerns Number of calls received have increased over years Education Gujarat Migration Card + monitoringsoftware The card contains education details of the child + makeshift schools (Tent Special Training Programme) in construction locations for inter-state migrant children helped increase retention under elementary education of children who migrate with parents looking for seasonal employment and reduce the drop-out rates of girls in primary education. Chhattisgarh(LWE areas) Pota Cabins Building residential schools with impermanent materials like bamboo and plywood 1. Schools cannot be used as LWE hideouts + students safer there. 2. The number of out-of-school children in the 6-14 years age group reduced and enrolment and retention have increased from 2011 Madhya Pradesh Prathibha Parv Regular assessment for students and facilities in government schools 1.Better quality of education 2.Better attendance rates 3. Better infrastructure due to continuous monitoring Andhra Pradesh Saakshar Bharat Adult Education 1. Rise in enrolment from 2011 2. Reduction of gender disparity Environment Chennai Avadi Sewage Treatment Plant Sewage treatment plant + water used for kitchen garden 1. It treats 12 lakh litres of sewage every day with no negative discharge 2. produces manure 3. recharges groundwater 4. Provide water for kitchen garden 5. Removes the source of foul odour and waterborne diseases Sikkim Dhara Vikas develop a cadre of para-hydro-geologists + develop spring sheds + rainwater harvesting + laying down trenches with MGNREGA workers in ideal recharge locations using information provided by these geologists 1. Increased irrigation has encouraged farmers to cultivate new crops such as beans, radish, chilly+ perennial garden fruits etc (diversification, not just dry crops anymore). 2. 15% increase in crop yield obtained 3. recharge lakes, spring 4. Reforestation 5. Creation of a spring atlas with relevant hydro-geology information of the area Andaman & Nicobar Environment ManagementInitiative 1. Rainwater harvesting, 2. effluent treatment plant, 3. solid waste management, 4. paper and jute recycling 1. Nearly half of the institute campus’ water requirement is being met through rainwater harvesting. 2. The paper recycling plant produces 500 file folders every semester 3. Reduction of solid waste Karnataka Forest ProduceTracking System Real time tracking of what is extracted, from where, by whom, what purpose through a web-portal. Also printed Transit Passes with QR codes and watermarks which are automatically verified at check posts- faster clearance 1. Easier tracking 2. Improves transparency – reduces corrupt practices 3. Elimination of paper trail- increases efficiency Meghalaya Integrated Basin Development and LivelihoodPromotionProgramme Identification, Training and capacity building, credit linkage and supply chain development for entrepreneurs in selected sectors 1. Inclusive growth 2. Entrepreneurial promotion 3 Increased access to stakeholders Mansagar(Rajasthan) Lake Restoration Passing water through a natural filter(bunds) + two chambers of vegetation + dredging to increase lake depth+ use of dredged mud to create embankments + sewage treatment plants PPP model Revived the lake and local ecosystem+ source of income generation Kaikondrahalli(Karnataka) Lake Restoration Stopped encroachment, diverted sewage, de-weeded and de-silted the lake, thus increasing depth and thus storage capacity by 54%, created embankments, afforestation, creation of a separate pond for religious activities, construction of pathways and other recreational amenities Local community + BBMP Revived the lake and local ecosystem+ source of income generation Kerala Mazhapolima Rooftop rainwater harvesting + open well recharge 1. Generation of public interest and awareness leading to self installation without government subsidy 2. Groundwater recharging Delhi SAFAR- Systemof Air quality Forecasting And Research provide location-specific information on air quality in near real time and its forecast 1-3 days in advance in major metropolitan cities such as Delhi and Pune. 1. Awareness 2. Forecast of weather extremities 3. Data for environmental and health studies 4. Help improve crop yields through impact assessment Himachal Pradesh Sustainable Plastic Waste Management Plan Ban on use of plastic + use it in road construction 1. Cleaner environment 2. Reuse of plastic 3. Community awareness Financial Inclusion Jharkhand Panchayat Banks e-government facilities centre + bank with basic financial services + government scheme payment(MGNREGA, scholarships ec), constructed and operated by local entrepreneurs 1. Financial inclusion 2. Creation of local entrepreneurs + source of livelihood 3. Increase household savings 4. Reduce systemic leakages and increase transparency Food Security and PDS Arunachal Pradesh Arun e-PDS Digitisation of PDS+ ration card + foodgrain requirement tracking through coupons issued for the year + tracking for intermediate supplychains(transfer from FCIs to FPS etc) 1. Reduce pilferage of foodgrains 2. Detection of ghost ration cards 3. Inclusion of more deserving people in the system New Delhi Dilli Annashreeyojana Identify vulnerables(location, social or occupational) in the location and transfer amount of PDS benefit directly to beneficiary bank account(beneficiary = eldest woman of household) 1. Gender sensitive 2. Food security to the vulnerable, who lack even documentation to avail other benefits like TPDS or AAY Madhya Pradesh e-Uparjan Digitise procurement of foodgrains and track daily procurement amount depending on available storage 1. Create a decision support system to track how much to be procured in a day 2. transparency Health Kerala Arogyakeralam Palliative Care Project Free, home-based palliative care by trained nurses + special cases referred to hospitals + training to ASHAs and ANMs Palliative care, number of beneficiaries have increased over the years Sikkim CATCH-ComprehensiveAnnual andTotal HealthCheck-up forHealthy Sikkim periodic health check-ups free of cost for all + follow ups for complex ailments + counselling for healthy lifestyle + individual health cards (barcoded smart cards containing detailed health profile) 1. Improving health and access to healthcare 2. Healthier lifestyle adoption and reduction in consumption of of harmful materials like tobacco, alcohol, sugar etc Odisha Decentralisation of ICDS supplementary Nutrition Programme All procurement except rice and wheat are carried out locally at the village level + Pre-decided menu
India and its Region, Notes by UPSC Topper Ravisankar Sarma
India-Africa Why Africa for India? Emerging Market: World Bank notes that the African continent houses 6 of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Africa hence offers India businesses a huge market for their goods and rich demographic dividend for production through foreign investments Indian corporates are significantly involved in agri-businesses, engineering, construction, film distribution, pharmaceuticals and telecommunication. The Indian-African Business Council has enabled greater cooperation in the Track 2 diplomacy between economies Energy Security: Engagements with Africa for energy production and distribution can help diversify India’s dependence on West Asia for energy. Nuclear Energy: Several of the African countries have reserves of Uranium and Thorium that can enable India to produce atomic energy given India gains access to them. Soft Power Diplomacy: India’s capacity building and humanitarian efforts in Africa have earned it great goodwill across countries and multilateral platforms in contrast to China’s chequebook diplomacy and closed model of development Multilateral Diplomacy: African countries are pivotal to India securing its bid for UNSC and NSG. South Africa has been an important partner in BRICS given the increasing south-south cooperation and historical linkages between India and South Africa Historical Relations: India and Africa are bounded by South-South cooperation manifested in the Non-Aligned Movement. The Gandhian freedom movement in India and South Africa further cement historical linkages between India and Africa India’s initiatives Indo-Africa Summit: First held in 2008, the Indo-Africa summit has evolved to be the official platform for India-Africa relations signifying greater cooperation in economic and strategic domains. Doing away with the Banjul Formula, India now engages with all African countries through the summit. Pan-Africa e-network: India has focused on capacity building and institution development in Africa leveraging ICT measures. Through the Pan Africa e-network, it aims easy access to social services such as e-health, e-education and e-governance services to Africa. Team 9: The Team 9 initiative focuses on the development of 9 backward West African countries through an open inclusive model of development Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation: Through ITEC measures, India aims to inculcate skill development and skills transfer with a view to enhance the capacities of African economies in a win-win for all. Para-Diplomacy: A new trend in the relationship has been states directly engaging with Africa for economic engagements. Eg: Kerala is planning on importing cashew from Africa for its processing plants Cultural Diplomacy: Indian diaspora has positive relations with African people and the civilian governments. Historical linkages and Bollywood movies have served as key integrating factors for people in the region. Concerns Limited Diplomatic Engagements: Africa continues to be limited in presence in India’s foreign policy engagements. India is yet to establish embassies in several of the African countries Chinese Presence: China through its chequebook diplomacy has made great inroads into Africa. It has been able to deliver on its promise better than India. This has led many African countries to strategically embrace China at the expense of India. Eg: Chinese Port in Djibouti Lack of Economic Coordination: Indian businesses have little coordination with the state that compromises avenues of symbiotic Indo-African economic cooperation. Several Indian businesses have also been accused of unethical business practices in Africa Eg: Karuturi Global, an Indian company accused of land grabs in Ethiopia Instability in Africa: India’s investments and business engagements face the threat of extremist and insurgent elements in Africa. They pose a threat to India’s developmental and infrastructure projects like the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor Eg: Boko haram in Nigeria Enormous Diversity: India cannot proceed with a uniform foreign policy towards a continent as diverse as Africa in political, socio-cultural and economic spheres. It needs to step up its bilateral engagements with nations identifying complementary areas of cooperation Conclusion India needs to engage with Africa as a partner and elder brother in its resurgence harnessing its potential based on the Panchasheel ideals of equality, mutual respect for sovereignty, peaceful co-existence and mutual benefit. This would bonds the nations together on the Gandhian ideals that united them in the colonial era. Great Game In the new Great Game for Africa, there seems to be space for the Elephant and the Dragon in the hot deserts of Sahara and the Equatorial forests. India needs to focus on its capacity-building inclusive aid diplomacy driven model to counter china’s infrastructure building neo-imperialistic cheque book diplomacy for its own peaceful rise. Antarctica Antarctica has been treated as a Global Commons with no nation holding sovereign rights. The Antarctic Treaty proposes that all countries would use Antarctica solely for the purpose of scientific research despite the Antarctic holding rich reserves of energy and minerals. Antarctic Treaty Lays down that Antarctica shall remain peaceful without international discord Prohibits military activity, nuclear explosions and disposal of nuclear waste Promotes scientific research and exchange of data India has signed the treaty Concerns The geodynamics in the Arctic region and the sovereign rights of littoral nations there may offset a similar rush for resources violating the principle of Global Commons. India needs to use its status in the Arctic Council and the UN to maintain the spirit of the Antarctic Treaty. In the period of climate change, the last pristine frontiers on the planet cannot be depleted for greed. Conclusion As opposed to the Arctic, the Antarctic has signified a region of cooperation and harmony that is conducive to the world and environment. India as a responsible major power should strive to maintain the spirit of the treaty and ensure continued peace and research in the region expending its base stations of Maitri and Dakshin Gangotri Arctic Region Introduction The melting of the Arctic ice offers both challenges and opportunities to the international community. Despite India being a non-littoral state, the impacts of melting ice and the opportunities it offers in the form of resources and energy are of key interest to India. What Arctic Offers? Benefits of Shipping: As the ice melts, the ocean region offers new lanes of shipping that vastly reduce logistics cost and better linkages between North America, Europe, East Asia and Asia. This has the potential to reduce the relevance of current strategic choke points like the Bosphorous and the Suez canal Energy Potential: The arctic is said to hold 40% of the current HC and oil reserves whose extraction and use has become feasible due to climate change. This has the potential
Centre State Local Relations
Centre State Local Relations Devolution of Powers and Finances up to Local Levels and Challenges therein Financial Autonomy of ULBs/ RLBs The lower levels of government suffer from lack of devolution of funds and of self-generating revenue. Municipal bodies in urban areas face multiple challenges that necessitate capital: water supply, sanitation, power supply, solid waste management. Why a problem of Finance? Lack of devolution of funds: Devolution of adequate funds is the prerogative of the state government and is included among the voluntary provisions to be implemented by states in setting up local government institutions Lack of taxation powers: Most states have not provided avenues for municipalities to acquire revenue on their own through levying taxes and they continue to be dependent on state governments for grants Economic Survey: 4% of revenue of panchayats are raised from direct tax avenues Corruption and Mismanagement: Most municipalities are crippled by corruption and financial mismanagement that hinders productive spending on infrastructure and resources Taxation Powers not used: The Economic Survey points to a ‘low equilibrium trap’ wherein local bodies have been reluctant to use taxation powers vested in them to maintain the low level of accountability on local body institution. Inadequate delivery of serviceà Low Direct TaxesàWeak accountabilityàInadequate delivery Tied Funds—> No Functional Autonomy Way Forward Ensure Financial Accountability: Municipalities expenditure needs to be placed under professional scrutiny and debt management should be made a priority to plug leaking funds Sustainable Revenue Sources: Collection from property tax, sustained regular income from provision of services like water supply would usher in self-reliance when it comes to finances. GIS mapping and installation of ultra sound water meters can help in achieving both of these targets Municipal Bonds: They can be vital instruments to attract corporates and entrepreneurs to invest in urban planning and infrastructure development. It also reduces the burden on state governments and relieves ULBs of their financial dependence on state governments Local Self-Governments Local self-governments were provided with constitutional status through the 73rd and 74th amendment with the objective of deepening democratic decentralization in the country. LSGs transform citizens being passive participants in election process to active decision makers at ground level thus heralding participative democracy. Why LSG? Citizen participation: LSGs enable citizens to be direct participants in decision making at the grass-root level. This inculcates political consciousness within citizens making them an active part of democracy Eg: The institution of Gram Sabha that is inclusive of all voters in a village is an embodiment of direct democracy where voices are directly heard and heeded to Decentralization: LSGs are the lowest rung in the governance ladder that enables decentralized demand-driven service delivery to citizens. The citizens at the grass-root level are more aware of the needs of the society as compared to higher ladder governance institutions Eg: A village panchayat that needs healthcare service delivery will channelize its funds and functionaries in accordance with that priority in mind. Women Empowerment: By reservation of one-third of LSG seats, women are politically empowered being active decision-makers at the grass-root level. This can drive them towards better social status and economic empowerment. Similarly, SCs, STs and other backward classes are emancipated due to reservation of seats in panchayats Functions of a LSG Planning and Implementation: The LSGs are vested with the authority for planning and implementation for socio-economic development and welfare of its population. The state government and LSGs cooperate to achieve the laid out objectives. Beneficiary Identification: The LSGs are identifiers of deserving beneficiaries for state entitlements and assistance. They are better aware of grass root level demography and hence better placed to make decisions with regard to beneficiary identification Eg: LSGs decide the beneficiaries of MGNREGA Service Delivery: LSGs are responsible for service delivery of basic amenities to households- drinking water, electricity etc. In some states like Chhattisgarh, they are even managing the PDS to ensure fair and equal access to all beneficiaries. Safeguards for Tribal Population: The LSG institutions in Schedule V and VI areas are responsible for expending natural resources – minerals, land, forests, minor water bodies. The Gram Sabha has to be consulted in matters of land acquisition, rehabilitation of displaced population and mineral mining. Eg: Dongria Kond tribe of Niyamagiri hills rejected Vedanta’s request for Bauxite mining Infrastructure: LSGs play a pivotal role in infrastructural development in coordination with the state government on matters of road connectivity, telecom and electrification. Issues at the Local Body Level Lack of 3Fs: The state governments have not devolved enough funds, functions and functionaries hindering democratic decentralization to the third tier of the government. Many states have not included voluntary provisions of the amendment that included devolution of resources and functions. Lack of Financial Autonomy: Limited Taxation Powersà No self-reliance Limited use of existing taxation powersà Low revenue generation Low devolution of funds from state and centre-à Infrastructural backwardness Tied Fundsà Affects functional autonomy and priority based works of PRIs The Economic Survey of 2017-18 states that the direct tax collection of panchayats is at a meagre 4% of its revenue base illustrative of the heavy dependence on state and central devolution Recentralization: The decentralization of governance has been partly negated by para-statal authorities and recentralization schemes that abridge the authority and status devolved to lower levels of government MPLADS and GCDA Patriarchal Challenge: The provision for reservation of seats for women have been greatly compromised by the ‘Sarpanch pati’ system that puts husbands as active decision-makers in place of their passive spouse representative. Casteism: Panchayats have been formed along the lines of caste that have perpetuated caste divisions in villages and has assumed quasi-judicial functions that impose harsh punishments on lower caste sections on the basis of customary laws and practices. Khap Panchayats in parts of U.P and Bihar Corruption or Maladministration: Panchayats as political institutions have not been free of corruption and other antithetical activities that hinder development, progress and welfare for all Bureaucratic Culture: The introduction of the 3rd tier of governance has changed the role of a district collectorà The bureaucracy in practice is yet to be fully adapted to the change Ignorance of peri-Urban Areas: Regions at the periphery of cities that are transition zones for rural-urban areas suffer from lack of administrationà water and sanitation problems as per the 2nd ARC report Lack
International Relations
International Relations Soft Power Coined by American political scientist Joseph Nye, soft power is defined as the ability of an actor to change the behaviour of another actor to achieve a favourable end through attraction rather than coercion. According to Nye, a country’s soft power can come from 3 sources: Culture: Able to attract other countries Nepal, Bhutan and South-East Asia: Buddhism Spreading of the idea of Yoga Foreign policy India’s position on Palestine-Israel conflict Political Values: Lives up to it home and abroad India-South Africa relations: Gandhian values of non-violence and South-South cooperation Soft power cannot be a substitute for hard power. Bilateral Relations India-Korea Current Scenario: North Korea is enhancing its nuclear weapon capability and emerging as a threat to regional security that has heightened the arms race in the region involving U.S, South-Korea and Japan. India has firmly opposed North-Korea’s nuclear proliferation by: Imposing ban on trade: India aligned with the U.S policy to ban all trade to North Korea Stopping all capacity building initiatives for North Korean Citizens in India Launch of Korea Plus: An exclusive channel for inflow of South Korean investment India’s increased economic engagement with Seoul and lack of cooperation in economic and political spheres with Pyongyang arises from the need to contain North Korea which is beneficial for India’s regional security and economic interests as well as its approach to global nuclear non-proliferation regime as a responsible nuclear state. India- South Korea Korea Plus Civil Nuclear Deal: Although India is a non-NPT signatory, Seoul entered into a civil nuclear deal with India on account of its clean NPT record and is now a key supporter for India’s membership into the NSG Naval Cooperation: Joint Naval Exercises Indian Diaspora in Qatar Crisis As neighbouring countries have cut off its supply lines to Qatar, there is a shortage of supply of basic demands and commodities that leads to a steep increase in prices. The large number of working migrant population, including Indians has to now spend a high proportion of their wages on basic commodities. Migrant workers are also facing a blockade with Bahrain, Saudi and UAE not processing Qatari Visas. Hence many of them are unable to reach Qatar. India – UAE Maritime Security: Recently, India and UAE announced joint naval exercise to preserve maritime security in the Indian Ocean and Gulf Region Counter-Terrorism: A joint document deploring double standards adopted by countries and affirming UAE’s support for India’s proposed convention on terrorism at the United Nations. Cybersecurity: Joint research and development centres of excellence to fight cyber threats will be expedited Investment: UAE is investing in India’s National Investment Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) through its sovereign wealth fund (Abu Dhabi Investment Authority) India-Uganda E-visa introduction India has included Uganda in its list of countries to which an electronic visa is sufficient to travel. India has good business and trade relations with the African nation. Enabled easier travel compared to the normal visa process and enables better people to people interaction and India’s significant Diaspora presence has encouraged the idea of an e-visa India and Uganda share cooperation in the energy, automobile, pharmacbtical, space research and peaceful use of atomic energy India- Mali 20% of cotton exports from Mali find their way to India Track 2 diplomacy with business enterprises engaged directly in cotton trade Mali is currently engaged in efforts to incentivize Indian entrepreneurial investment in the textile field China’s Influence in South Asia China has invested in several projects in South Asian countries as part of its chequebook diplomacy and peaceful rise doctrine – by which China alludes the fact that the growth of China as a powerful nation is in the best interests of all Asian countries In Male, Indian investment was turned down in favour of Chinese investments In Nepal, China is building railway and road linkages and also the airport of Pokhara China is also financing the Hambantota port in Srilanka and owns 80% of it. India aspires to develop the Mattala port in Hambantota and has launched the Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement in pursuit of the same China is also the key defence supplier for Bangladesh and is investing heavily in its infrastructure and energy projects India’s Counter Restoring SAARC to improve relations with the neighbourhood and reduce China’s influence SAARC’s decline after the URI attacks have loosened the bonds, hence making it easier for China to make inroads into several South Asian countries Historically, countries in the neighbourhood see China as the one who delivers while India remains the promising country alone. Hence India must fast track its investment and projects in neighbouring countries to enhance credibility for its projects India should leverage the cultural homogeneity it shares with its neighbours which the China does not possess to ensure fruitful relations characterised by mutual respect and common interest BRICS Declares JeM and LeT as Terrorist Groups Denotes hyphenating of China’s relationship of India and Pakistan Can be seen as a decline in the China-Pakistan nexus and the special relationship Beijing had with Islamabad Displays commitment on counter-terrorism by all BRICS nations including China China reverted its stand on designating Masood Azhar of Jaish-e-Mohammed as an international terrorist putting a technical hold on UNSC’s bid to ban him. China had earlier expressed its willingness on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Xiamen. INDIA-CANADA Areas of Cooperation Energy Security: Canada-India ministerial energy dialogue with particular focus on electricity, energy efficiency and renewable energy India and Canada are also cooperating in civil nuclear energy production Trade and Investment: The CEPA and Bilateral Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BFIPAPA) between the member countries aim to increase the flow of trade and investment between countries increasing market access and job opportunities for both nations Movement of People: Under the Global Skills Strategy, India and Canada have committed to liberal movement of highly skilled individuals from India to Canada. This attains greater importance in the context of stricter norms applied for the skilled individuals in U.S under the HI-B visa regime Strategic Cooperation: India and Canada’s avenues for strategic cooperation are limited by geography and lack of common interests. However, both countries have agreed to improve security cooperation by institutionalizing strategic dialogues at National Security Adviser (NSA) and
Social Justice in Health Sector
Social Justice- Health Sector Issues related to the provision of Social Sector Services Privatization of Health Sector NITI Aayog and Health Ministry has mooted the ideas of incorporating a PPP model into the provision of health services by allowing private hospitals to run select services within district hospitals by leasing out portions The select services included are treatments for cardiac disease, pulmonary disease and cancer care PPP model would improve accessibility to specialized health care PPP model would provide a mechanism for private sector to engage with the public utilising government facilities and infrastructure of district hospitals. A viability gap funding by the state government needs to be set up for this. Private parties would share ambulance services, mortuary services and blood banks with the district hospitals while public hospitals benefit from superior quality of human resources as well as increased capital of private players It would ensure timely diagnosis and detection of diseases reducing regional disparity in provision of such services Concerns Health being a state subject, NITI Aayog has limited advisory powers and hence a top-down approach may not be suitable for a subject in the state list Increased privatization may lead to further commercialization of the health sector- only BPL and insured patients would be provided access to free health care thus ignoring the majority of the population. Private parties would be able to cherry-pick districts with individuals who have high paying capacity thus widening the existing regional disparity in the provision of quality health services Handing over public healthcare services to private sector reflects the inefficiency of public health care services and abdication of governments duty from providing free healthcare to all citizens HIV AIDS UNAIDS REPORT India has a high percentage of HIV patients in the world and HIV cases have been reported in new areas of the country India is a vital supplier of generic antiretroviral drugs to world pharmacies and hence a coordinated approach on innovation, intellectual property rights and public health is required to tackle AIDS at the global level particular in low and middle-income countries UNAIDS focuses on achieving the 90-90-90 target: 90% diagnosed, out of them 90% provided ART and out of those provided treatment 90% are virally suppressed HIV AIDS Response by the Govt through AIDS (Prevention and Control Bill) Prohibition of discrimination towards HIV patients in provision of education, health facilities, employment, housing and other such services. Any violation of this right due to unfair treatment vetted out to HIV patients will amount to punishment. All HIV patients under the state are guaranteed access to preventive, testing, medical and counselling care including ART which is the key feature of the bill aiming to attain 90-90-90 target. The state government is required to employ an ombudsman to address grievances relating to the violation of the act The status of HIV patients shall not be disclosed unless by a court order HIV and Hepatitis C Twins Similar to HIV, HCV can be transmitted through needles, inadequate sterilisation of needles and by sexual interaction Call for integrating HCV into National HIV Control Programme Health experts argue that twin testing facilities should be made available for HIV and Hepatitis C as cases of Hepatitis C have been commonly observed mainly in HIV patients Early detection of the disease can enable easier treatment with the availability of drugs A common infrastructure facility would be a win-win for both the government as well as the public in terms of cost and accessibility Built-up Drug resistance Overuse of antibiotics – Bacteria evolves to resist antibiotics – Government currently addressing the overuse by introducing red line medicines to discourage sale and consumption of antibiotics Unnecessary antibiotic usage among livestock Discharge of effluents from pharmaceutical industries Improper control on infection Lack of hygiene: A government report Scoping Report on Anti-microbial resistance in India have proved that mass bathing in the Ganga has caused anti-microbial resistance to build-up India faces a challenge of MDR TB and its resolution as a part of the Revised National TB Control Programme Currently concerns regarding resistance to antiviral drugs used for treatment of swine flu Similar to antibiotic resistance these drugs are antiviral in nature and their uncontrolled usage will build up resistance Government has decided to take off 2 drugs used or treatment of Swine flu from the restrictive Schedule X of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules meaning that they are easily available rendering them vulnerable to misuse Antibiotic resistance is also cited as a roadblock in the treatment of the sexually transmitted disease Gonnorhea by WHO India’s fight against MDR TB According to WHO, India has 1.7 million new TB cases reported in 2016 and so a decline of 12% TB deaths from last year although there was a 5% increase in new cases (Improved diagnosis?) reported. India also has a 90-90-90 target in TB ( 90% reduction in disease incidence, mortality and catastrophic expenditure) India’s policy aimed at achieving this target is centred around improved diagnostics (using GenXpert devices), short term treatment courses (shifting to daily regime from thrice weekly),improved availability of bedaquiline and delamanid and comprehensive preventive strategies (improved nutrition, sanitation and hygiene) India follow the DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment Short Course) strategy recommended by WHO Prevention Mutual cause effect relationship between TB and malnutrition. People with malnutrition are predisposed to contracting TB and TB itself can result in under nourishment Need for provision of nutritional assistance for economically vulnerable TB patients through markets and other alternatives like CSOs facilitating access to low cost fortified foods National Strategic Plan (NSP) brought out by the government with an aim to eliminate TB by 2025 focuses on addressing nutritional insecurity of TB patients Under nutrition contribute to 55% of TB incidence in India Diagnosis Detection of the disease is key with regard to TB India lags behind in detection as most of the public and private sector still make use of smear microscopy which is an ineffective method as it can detect only 50% of TB cases. Xpert machines
