SYSTEM OF RICE INTENSIFICATION (SRI)
1. Context
The Punjab government is promoting the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique of paddy, which saves water and labor cost against the conventional puddling method and farmers can also have one more option of rice sowing, but the old method is not popular and well-researched in the state. When the state is not ready to shun paddy sowing, any technique that claims to save groundwater must be researched and promoted in the state.
2. System of Rice Intensification (SRI):
- SRI was Developed in Madagascar in the 1980s, SRI is a method of rice cultivation.
- It is Practiced in several countries worldwide, including India.
- It Promises to save 15 to 20% of groundwater.
- It Improves rice productivity, addressing stagnation issues.
- It Provides equal or higher yields compared to conventional rice cultivation.
- It Requires less water, seeds, and chemicals, reducing external input investments.
3. System of Rice Intensification (SRI) Field Practices:
- Field preparation involves ploughing and laser leveling for water management.
- Irrigation is applied in controlled amounts, less than traditional flooding methods.
- Transplanting occurs with 10-12 day-old nursery plants, minimizing root disturbance.
- Plants are transplanted in lines marked at a distance of 10 inches apart.
- Lines create favorable conditions for rice plant growth and development.
- Seedlings should be located near the main field to minimize root drying.
4. Suitability and Seed Requirements:
- SRI is suitable for all types of soils, including less fertile soil.
- SRI allows for increased seedling density in less fertile soils.
- For one acre of cultivation, 2kg of seed is required to grow a nursery under SRI, compared to 5kg in traditional methods.
5. SRI Method and Irrigation:
- Unlike traditional methods, SRI does not require continuous flooding after nursery transplantation.
- SRI utilizes intermittent irrigation instead of continuous flooding. The aim is to avoid oxygen deprivation for the plant roots.
- Initially, irrigation is used to maintain soil moisture near saturation. Water is added to the field when surface soil develops hairline cracks.
- Irrigation intervals vary based on field conditions. Comparative experiments showed reduced groundwater usage in SRI fields.
- In a specific study with Pusa 1121 variety, SRI used 50 lakh liters of groundwater compared to 62 lakh liters in the traditional puddled method.
6. Weed control in SRI
- In SRI, weeds are managed differently compared to Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) methods.
- SRI allows greater weed growth due to alternating wetting and drying of fields.
- Weeds are incorporated into the soil by using a cono-weeder, which is operated between the rows that were created during sowing.
- The cono-weeder not only controls weeds but also adds nutrients to the crop, acting like green manure.
- The first weeding is done 10-12 days after planting, and subsequent weedings may be performed at 10-15 day intervals until the crop reaches the panicle stage.
- Each weeding improves yield by aerating the soil and reducing weed competition.
- It is recommended to coordinate weeding with irrigation to facilitate the smoother and easier operation of the cono-weeder.
7. Significance of SRI in Punjab
- SRI is crucial in Punjab due to the water scarcity issue.
- A majority of agricultural blocks in the state (116 out of 138) are categorized as dark zone or semi-dark zone due to excessive groundwater exploitation.
- SRI helps conserve groundwater by reducing water requirements for rice cultivation.
- It enhances productivity by promoting more tiller growth compared to the traditional method.
- SRI maintains soil health and reduces input costs by requiring 25% less urea.
- The strong root system resulting from young plant transplantation prevents lodging caused by rain or wind.
- SRI benefits small and marginal farmers by increasing yield while reducing expenses.
- It shortens the crop maturation time by 5-15 days.
- SRI reduces reliance on chemicals, minimizing the need for weedicides and promoting soil health in a region where significant chemical usage is prevalent.
8. Comparative results of traditional and SRI methods
- SRI practices, with planting in rows and proper spacing, have been shown to yield more compared to traditional methods.
- Demonstrations and trials conducted by the Gurdaspur Agriculture Department in Punjab, India, over a decade ago confirmed the superiority of SRI practices.
- SRI plots yielded around 22.34% more rice, specifically Basmati PUSA 1121, compared to other cultivation methods.
- SRI has the potential to significantly increase yield.
- Net total returns per acre were higher with SRI, with farmers in Kothe and Khokhar villages reporting Rs 21,000 to Rs 40,000 more net returns compared to conventional Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and mechanical methods.
9. Limitations of SRI
- Unchecked weed growth can lead to significant yield losses.
- SRI is not widely promoted by the government in Punjab, except for the demonstration plots established over a decade ago.
- Sustaining the benefits of SRI requires maintaining organic inputs in the soil structure.
- Further research is needed, particularly by scientists at Punjab Agriculture University (PAU), Ludhiana, in collaboration with farmers, to conduct trials on small lands and maintain proper study records.
- The results from SRI implementation in other regions, such as Telangana, have shown promising outcomes in terms of water conservation, reduced input costs, and improved plant growth.
- To promote water-saving practices, Punjab's farmers need viable options supported by adequate studies.
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For Prelims: System of Rice Intensification (SRI), Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique, Pusa 1121 variety.
For Mains: 1. What is the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and discuss the significance of SRI in the state of Punjab. (250 Words)
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Source: The Indian Express
NON COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
1. Context
The new national estimates for diabetes and other noncommunicable diseases (NCD) shows that 31 million more Indians became diabetic in four years (2019-2021).
2. Non-Communicable Diseases
- Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic medical conditions that are not caused by infectious agents and cannot be transmitted from person to person. These diseases typically have a long duration and progress slowly over time.
- NCDs are also referred to as chronic diseases and are often characterized by complex and multifactorial causes, including genetic, lifestyle, environmental, and behavioral factors.
- NCDs are a major global health concern, accounting for a significant proportion of morbidity, disability, and premature mortality worldwide.
- They impose a substantial burden on individuals, families, healthcare systems, and economies. Risk factors for NCDs include unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, and environmental factors such as air pollution.
- Prevention and control strategies for non-communicable diseases involve a combination of health promotion, early detection, access to quality healthcare services, lifestyle modifications, and effective management of existing conditions.
- Public health interventions aim to reduce NCD risk factors and promote healthy behaviors to mitigate the impact of these diseases on individuals and populations.
3. Findings of the Study on Non-communicable Diseases in India
- Diabetes and Prediabetes: India has 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million with prediabetes.
- High Blood Pressure: 315 million people in India were found to have high blood pressure.
- Obesity: Generalized Obesity: 254 million individuals in India were classified as obese. Abdominal Obesity: 351 million people in India had abdominal obesity.
- Hypercholesterolemia and High LDL Cholesterol: Hypercholesterolemia: 213 million individuals in India had high cholesterol levels. High LDL Cholesterol: 185 million people had elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
- Study Details: The study was funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The Madras Diabetes Research Foundation coordinated the decade-long nationwide study. The findings of the study will be published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology journal.
4. Significance of the Study on Non-communicable Diseases in India
- Comprehensive Epidemiological Research: The study is the first comprehensive epidemiological research paper on non-communicable diseases in India. It includes participants from 31 states and some Union Territories, with a large sample size of 1,13,043 individuals.
- Increased Prevalence of NDCs: The study reveals that diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia are more common in India than previously estimated. It highlights the urgent need for preventive measures and healthcare interventions to address the high prevalence of these diseases.
- Rural Diabetes Explosion: While urban areas currently have higher rates of metabolic NCDs, except for prediabetes, the study warns of an upcoming diabetes explosion in rural India if left unregulated.
- Inter-regional Variations: The study identifies variations in disease prevalence among different states and regions. Goa, Puducherry, and Kerala have the highest diabetes prevalence, while Sikkim has a high prevalence of Prediabetes, and Punjab has the highest hypertension rates.
- Implications for Policy: The findings highlight the need for state-specific policies and interventions to address the rising epidemic of metabolic NCDs in India. Urgent actions are required to stabilize diabetes rates in developed states and control the increasing prevalence in other regions.
- Study Details: The research used a cross-sectional, population-based survey of adults aged above 20 years. The study employed a stratified, multistage sampling design and is titled "Metabolic non-communicable health report of India- the ICMR-INDIAB National Cross-sectional Study.
5. Impact of Rising NCDs in India:
- Increased Burden of Diabetics and Hypertensive Individuals: Over the past four years, India has experienced a significant increase in the number of people affected by diabetes and hypertension. Generalized and abdominal obesity are contributing factors to this growing burden.
- Warning Signs for Future Health Issues: The study serves as an early warning, highlighting that if left uncontrolled, this population is at high risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and life-altering medical conditions, including strokes.
- Dual Problem of Malnutrition and Obesity: Experts explain that India faces a dual problem of malnutrition and obesity. Although surplus food is available, factors such as exposure to fast food, lack of sleep, inadequate exercise, and increased stress contribute to the perfect environment for NCDs to thrive.
6. Addressing the Rising NCDs
- The solution to combating NCDs lies in adopting a wellness approach and embracing a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- The Health Ministry recognizes four major NCDs Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.
- These diseases share common behavioral risk factors, including unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and tobacco and alcohol use.
- The Health Ministry has implemented Programs to strengthen health infrastructure and develop human resources.
- Health-promotion initiatives and awareness campaigns focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and ensuring appropriate referrals for NCDs.
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For Prelims: Non-Communicable Diseases, Diabetes, and Prediabetes, Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and ICMR.
For Mains: 1. Explain the significance of the study on metabolic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India and their implications for public health policies. (250 Words).
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Source: The Hindu
REMITTANCES IN INDIA
1. Context
According to the World Bank's Migration and Development Brief, India is projected to receive a record $100 billion in remittances in 2022, making it the top recipient globally.
This represents a 12 per cent increase compared to the previous year, driven by a significant number of Indian migrants earning higher salaries in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and East Asia.
2. Key Points
- It is important to note that India's remittance flows are expected to account for only 3 per cent of its GDP in 2022.
- This indicates that while the absolute amount of remittances is substantial, its relative contribution to the country's overall economy remains relatively modest.
- In South Asia as a whole, remittance flows are predicted to grow by 3.5 per cent in 2022, reaching $163 billion.
- However, this growth rate represents a slowdown compared to the 6.7 per cent increase observed in the previous year.
- The report attributes this deceleration to a combination of external factors such as inflation and slowing demand in both destination and source countries, as well as domestic factors specific to each country.
- While India and Nepal have experienced positive performance, with gains of 12 per cent and 4 per cent, respectively, other countries in the region have reported an aggregate decline of 10 per cent in remittances.
- Despite the challenges faced globally in 2022, remittances to low- and middle-income countries as a whole are projected to grow by 5 per cent, amounting to $626 billion.
- This indicates the continued importance of remittances as a vital source of income for households in these countries.
3. Reasons for the high remittance to India
- The high remittance inflows to India in 2022 can be attributed to several factors highlighted by the World Bank.
- Firstly, there has been a gradual shift in destinations for Indian migrants, with a structural shift in qualifications.
- More Indian migrants have been able to secure high-skilled jobs in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and East Asia, particularly in the services sector.
- Higher education has played a crucial role in this, as it has been linked to higher income levels, directly impacting remittance flows.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian migrants in high-income countries benefited from work-from-home arrangements and significant fiscal stimulus packages.
- As the pandemic situation improved, wage hikes and favourable employment conditions further supported migrants in sending money back to India, despite the challenges of high global inflation.
- In addition, price support policies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where many Indian migrants typically work, helped keep inflation at bay.
- This, combined with increased demand for labour due to higher oil prices, contributed to a rise in remittances from Indian labourers.
- The World Bank report also highlights wage hikes and a strong labour market in countries like the United States and other OECD nations as factors that enhanced remittances to India.
- Governments in GCC destination countries implemented direct support measures to ensure low inflation, thereby safeguarding migrants' ability to remit funds.
- Furthermore, the depreciation of the Indian rupee against the US dollar during the period from January to September 2022, which fell by 10 per cent, may have also worked in favour of Indian migrants by increasing the value of the remittances sent back home.
- The resumption of travel and successful vaccination efforts in 2022 enabled migrants to resume work, which further contributed to the increase in remittances flowing into the country
- Remittance refers to the transfer of money or funds made by individuals working abroad to their home countries.
- It encompasses different types of financial flows, including workers' remittances, compensation of employees, and migrants' transfers.
- These transactions are recorded in the IMF Balance of Payments.
- Remittances serve as a crucial source of income for households in low- and middle-income countries.
5. Global Remittance Predictions for 2023
- The growth of remittance flows into South Asia in 2023 is expected to slow down significantly, with a projected increase of only 0.7 per cent.
- This prediction raises concerns about the resilience of remittances from white-collar South Asian migrants working in high-income countries, as noted in the report.
- Remittance Flows in India: Specifically focusing on India, remittance flows are predicted to decrease in 2023.
- This decline can be attributed to factors such as inflation and an economic slowdown in the United States.
- Additionally, the economic growth slowdown in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, coupled with falling oil prices, will further impact remittance flows to all South Asian countries, including India, according to the report's findings.
6. The Way Forward
- While remittances have played a vital role in supporting households in low- and middle-income countries, the predictions for 2023 suggest challenges ahead.
- Slowing growth rates in remittance flows to South Asia, including India, highlight the potential impact of factors like inflation, economic conditions in source countries, and changes in the global economy.
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For Prelims: Remittances, Covid-19, Gulf Cooperation Council, IMF, World Bank, OECD nations,
For Mains:
1. Critically evaluate the role of education and skills in shaping the remittance flows to India. How does the qualification level of Indian migrants influence their income and remittance contributions? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. In the context of India, which of the following factors is/are contributor/contributors to reducing the risk of a currency crisis? (UPSC 2019)
1. The foreign currency earnings of India's IT sector.
2. Increasing government expenditure.
3. Remittances from Indians abroad.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 2 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
2. Which of the following constitute Capital Account? (UPSC 2013)
1. Foreign Loans
2. Foreign Direct Investment
3. Private Remittances
4. Portfolio Investment
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
A. 1, 2 and 3 B. 1, 2 and 4 C. 2, 3 and 4 D. 1, 3 and 4
Answer: B
3. In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen based vaccine.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
4. Which of the following facts about Covid - 19 virus is / are wrong? (TNPSC Group 1 Prelims 2021)
(a) People who have been infected by the virus but do not have symptoms do not spread virus. (b) Reinfection is not possible.
(c) Anosmia (loss of smell) is a symptom.
(d) Babies do not get infected by Corona virus.
1. (a) and (b) only
2. (a), (b), and (d)
3. (c) only
4. (d) only
5. Answer not known
Answer: 2
5. Which of the following is NOT a member of Gulf Cooperation Council? (UPSC 2016)
A. Iran B. Saudi Arabia C. Oman D. Kuwait
Answer: A
6. With reference to the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) consider the following statements: (UPSC 2016)
1. IMFC discusses matters of concern affecting the global economy and advises the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the direction of its work.
2. The World Bank participates as an observer in IMFC's meetings.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
7. Consider the following statements with reference to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD): (RBI Grade B 2022)
1. OECD is an official Permanent observer to the United Nations and is referred to as a think-tank or as a monitoring group.
2. India is not a member of OECD.
3. OECD is funded by its member countries.
Which of the statement given above is/ are correct?
A. 1 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 E. 2 only
Answer: D
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Source: The Indian Express
WILLFUL DEFAULTERS
1. Context
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in a controversial move, has allowed wilful defaulters and loan accounts involved in frauds to go in for a compromise settlement with banks to settle their dues. A section of bankers says the RBI decision may be detrimental to the banking system and depositors as the wrongful actions of such defaulters and fraudsters are being condoned, placing the burden of their misdeeds on the shoulders of ordinary citizens, especially depositors.
2. What is a Compromise Settlement?
- A compromise settlement refers to a negotiated settlement where a borrower offers to pay and the bank agrees to accept in full and final, settlement of its dues an amount less than the total amount due to them under the relative loan contract.
- This settlement invariably involves a certain sacrifice by way of write-off and/or waiver of a portion of its dues on a one-time basis.
- In the last two decades, banks have approved several compromise settlements, running into hundreds of crores with huge haircuts – or the reduction of outstanding payments or loans that will not be repaid by the borrowers – leading to huge losses for banks.
3. RBI Analysis
- In the last two decades, banks have approved several compromise settlements, running into hundreds of crores with huge haircuts – or the reduction of outstanding payments or loans that will not be repaid by the borrowers – leading to huge losses for banks.
- The central bank has also directed banks to fix a minimum cooling period of at least 12 months before making fresh exposures to borrowers who had undergone compromise settlements.
- This means a wilful defaulter or a company involved in fraud can get fresh loans after 12 months of executing a compromise settlement.
4. Detrimental Nature of RBI's Compromise Settlement Framework
- Detrimental Step: The RBI's 'Framework for compromise settlements and technical write-offs' is viewed as detrimental. It raises concerns about compromising the integrity of the banking system and undermining efforts against wilful defaulters.
- Rewards Unscrupulous Borrowers: The framework is criticized for rewarding unscrupulous borrowers who have engaged in fraudulent activities. This undermines the message to honest borrowers who diligently fulfill their financial obligations.
- Opposition from Bank Unions: The All India Bank Officers' Confederation (AIBOC) and All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) representing 6 lakh bank employees oppose compromise settlements for fraud or wilful defaulters. They argue that such settlements go against the principles of justice and accountability.
- Impact on Financial Stability: Wilful defaults have a significant impact on the financial stability of banks and the overall economy. Allowing compromise settlements condones wrongful actions and places the burden of misdeeds on ordinary citizens and hardworking bank employees, according to bank unions.
5. Reversal of Policy on Wilful Defaulters in Compromise Settlements
- Policy Reversal: The central bank has reversed its previous policy of excluding wilful defaulters from compromise settlements. On June 7, 2019, the RBI stated that borrowers involved in fraud, malfeasance, or wilful default would not be eligible for restructuring.
- Shock to the Banking Sector: The sudden change by the central bank to grant compromise settlements to wilful defaulters has shocked the banking sector. This decision is expected to erode public trust in the sector and undermine depositor confidence.
- Misuse of Restructuring: Bankers argue that there is evidence of banks and corporates misusing restructuring to "evergreen" problem accounts and maintain low levels of reported non-performing assets (NPAs). Between 2000 and 2014, companies utilized fresh loans from banks to artificially improve their loan books, but the enactment of the bankruptcy code reduced such practices.
- Low Recovery and Implications: Despite the decline in evergreening due to the bankruptcy code, recovery rates have remained significantly low. Granting compromise settlements to wilful defaulters may further hinder the recovery process.
6. Wilful Default and Defaulters in India - Key Statistics
- Definition of Wilful Default: As per RBI's classification, a wilful default occurs when a borrower fails to meet repayment obligations despite having the capacity to do so.
- Increase in Wilful Default Accounts: Wilful default accounts in India have increased over the years. In December 2022, there were 15,778 wilful default accounts involving Rs 340,570 crore, compared to 14,206 accounts involving Rs 285,583 crore in December 2021 and 12,911 accounts involving Rs 245,888 crore in December 2020 (data from Transunion Cibil).
- Leading Banks and Amounts: State Bank of India (SBI) leads with 1,883 wilful default accounts amounting to Rs 79,296 crore. Other banks with significant wilful default amounts include PNB (Rs 38,360 crore), Union Bank of India (Rs 35,266 crore), IDBI Bank (Rs 23,601 crore), and Bank of Baroda (Rs 23,879 crore) (data from Cibil website).
- The dominance of Public Sector Banks: Public sector banks account for 85% of wilful defaults, totaling Rs 292,666 crore. This indicates the reluctance of borrowers to repay bank loans despite having the financial capacity to do so.
- Characteristics of Wilful Default: A wilful default occurs when borrowers divert funds, siphon off funds, or misuse the finances for purposes other than those specified. It also includes unauthorized disposal or removal of assets pledged as security for term loans, without the knowledge of the bank.
7. Importance of Debt Recovery and Impact on Interest Rates
- Protection of Depositors and Stakeholders: Recovery of debts due to banks is crucial for safeguarding the interest of depositors and stakeholders. Failure to recover non-performing assets (NPAs) would ultimately result in the suffering of depositors and other stakeholders.
- The objective of Compromise Settlements: Compromise settlements should prioritize the maximum recovery of dues with minimal expenses and in the shortest possible timeframe, according to a note by the Union Bank of India. The underlying objective is to protect the interest of taxpayers and the general public considering that banks are public sector entities.
- Consideration of Public Interest: As banks are public sector entities, compromise settlements should prioritize the interest of the public at large over the borrowers. The stakeholders, including the taxpaying general public, should be kept in mind during negotiations.
- Impact on Interest Rates: The high level of NPAs in the banking system is one of the reasons for the high-interest rates in India. Resolving and reducing NPAs through effective debt recovery measures would contribute to stabilizing and potentially lowering interest rates in the country.
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For Prelims: Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Non-Performing Assets (NPA's), Willful Defaulters, All India Bank Officers' Confederation (AIBOC), All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance of debt recovery in protecting the interests of depositors and stakeholders and its impact on interest rates in the Indian banking system. (250 words)
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Previous year Questions
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1. Consider the following statements: Non-performing assets (NPAs) decline in value when (UPSC ESE 2018)
1. Demand revives in the economy.
2. Capacity utilization increases.
3. Capacity utilization, though substantive, is yet sub-optimal.
4. Capacity utilization decreases consequently upon the merger of units.
Which of the above statement are correct?
A. 1, 3, and 4 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: C
2. Which of the following sectors contribute in recent years to the deterioration of asset quality of commercial banks by way of Non-Performing Assets? (UPSC CAPF 2020)
1. Agriculture and allied sector
2. Industrial sector
3. Infrastructure sector
4. Information technology sector
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: B
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Source: The Indian Express
RASHTRIYA KISHOR SWASTHYA KARYAKRAM
1. Introduction
- To unlock India's full potential and ensure a prosperous future, prioritising the health and nutrition of its adolescent girls is crucial.
- Adolescence is a pivotal period of cognitive development and improving access to nutrition during this phase compensates for any nutrient deficiencies acquired earlier in the child's development.
- Moreover, the health of adolescent girls significantly impacts women's long-term labour force participation, making nutrition interventions an opportunity to enhance India's demographic dividend.
2. Growing Nutritional Concerns
- Adolescent girls face a heightened vulnerability to undernutrition and anaemia, primarily due to the onset of menstruation.
- The findings of the National Family Health Survey-5 (2010-21) reveal alarming statistics, with 59.1 per cent of adolescent girls found to be anaemic.
- Additionally, over 41.9 per cent of school-going girls were reported as underweight in NFHS-4, highlighting a concerning trend.
- Various factors, including environmental conditions and gender-biased cultural norms within households, contribute to inadequate nutrition uptake among adolescent girls.
3. Current Gaps and Consequences
- While progress has been made through government initiatives, it is essential to acknowledge that existing health interventions do not adequately address the nutritional needs of adolescent girls.
- Neglecting their nutritional requirements can lead to cognitive impairments, lower academic performance, limited educational attainment, reduced employment opportunities and economic self-sufficiency.
- Undernourished adolescent girls also face a higher risk of chronic diseases and pregnancy complications, placing a greater healthcare burden on families and communities, potentially leading to financial instability and increased poverty.
- Furthermore, their overall well-being and participation in society may be hampered.
4. Redefining Interventions
- To address these challenges, interventions must prioritize good nutrition and adopt a life-cycle approach that ensures the inclusion of every girl.
- Investing in girls' nutrition can help break the intergenerational cycle of poverty as well-nourished girls are more likely to have healthy babies and provide better care for their families.
- Consequently, investing in girls' nutrition is not only a moral obligation but also an economic imperative, with potential returns in the form of sustainable economic growth.
5. Enhancing Existing Initiatives
- By integrating various government initiatives like the Scheme for Adolescent Girls under the Prime Minister's overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition Programme (POSHAN) 2.0, we can expand the scope and effectiveness of interventions.
- Strengthening awareness and nutrition education programs within schemes like Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) can ensure sustained beneficiary compliance.
- Targeted Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) efforts, tailored to regional contexts, will generate greater demand and adoption of good practices.
- Effective convergence and collaboration among relevant departments are crucial and routine training of health workers is necessary to implement and monitor schemes effectively.
6. Utilizing Evidence and Data
- A comprehensive narrative on adolescent girls' nutrition, highlighting its linkages with mental and physical well-being, individual productivity and overall economic growth must be developed.
- This narrative should be supported by evidence and data that resonate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, enabling actionable solutions.
- It is imperative to collect disaggregated data to facilitate effective interpretation and decision-making.
7. The way forward
- The discourse on adolescent girls' nutrition strives to protect and improve their nutritional status.
- Recognizing that this issue extends beyond health, it is an investment in India's future.
- Prioritizing the nutritional needs of girls can build a healthier, stronger nation where every girl can reach her full potential.
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For Prelims: National Family Health Survey, undernutrition, anaemia, POSHAN, Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram, Social and Behavior Change Communication, Adolescent girls
For Mains
1. Evaluate the current government interventions and initiatives aimed at addressing the nutritional needs of adolescent girls in India. Examine the effectiveness of these interventions and discuss the gaps or limitations in their approach. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 5 does not include (UPPSC 2019)
A. High blood-pressure B. Diabetes C. HIV Test D. Registration of death
Answer: C
2. Which of the following is/are the indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report? (UPSC 2016)
1. Undernourishment
2. Child stunting
3. Child mortality
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1, 2 and 3 D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: C
3. Which of the following are the objectives of the 'National Nutrition Mission'? (UPSC 2017)
1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers. 2. To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls, and women.
3. To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals, and unpolished rice.
4. To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only B. 1, 2 and 3 only C. 1, 2 and 4 only D. 3 and 4 only
Answer: A
4. Which one of the following is a basic method of effecting behavioural change? (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2021)
A. Communication B. Recording C. Optimal rest D. Rhythmic evaluation
Answer: A
5. Which one of the following schemes is aimed at all-round development of adolescent girls in the age group of 11-18 years and making them self-reliant? (UPSC EPFO 2016)
A. RGSEAG B. IGMSY C. NMEW D. RMK
Answer: A
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Source: The Hindu
