The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is an Indian law that was enacted in 1967 to effectively prevent unlawful activities that pose a threat to the sovereignty and integrity of India.

Key highlights of the UAPA

• Objective: The primary objective of the UAPA is to provide law enforcement agencies with effective tools to combat terrorism and other activities that threaten the security of the nation.
• Definition of Unlawful Activities: The act defines unlawful activities to include actions that intend to or support the cession of a part of the territory of India or disrupt the sovereignty and integrity of the country.
• Powers of Designation: The government has the authority to designate an organization as a terrorist organization if it believes that such an organization is involved in terrorism. This designation has significant legal consequences, including the freezing of assets.
• Powers of Arrest and Detention: The UAPA provides law enforcement agencies with powers of arrest and detention to prevent individuals from engaging in unlawful activities. The act allows for preventive detention to curb potential threats before they materialise.
• Banning of Terrorist Organizations: The government can proscribe organizations as terrorist organizations, making their activities illegal. This includes banning these organisations, freezing their assets, and taking other measures to curb their operations.
• Admissibility of Confessions: The UAPA allows for confessions made to police officers to be admissible in court, subject to certain safeguards. This provision has been a point of contention, with concerns about potential misuse and coercion.
• Designation of Individuals as Terrorists: In addition to organizations, the UAPA allows the government to designate individuals as terrorists. This designation carries legal consequences, including restrictions on travel and freezing of assets.
• Amendments and Stringency: Over the years, the UAPA has undergone several amendments to strengthen its provisions and make it more effective in dealing with emerging threats. However, these amendments have also been criticized for potential violations of civil liberties.
• International Cooperation: The UAPA allows for cooperation with foreign countries in matters related to the prevention of unlawful activities. This includes extradition of individuals involved in such activities.

3. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Human Rights

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and human rights lie in the impact the act can have on various fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India and international human rights standards.

The key points connecting the UAPA and human rights:

• The UAPA allows for preventive detention, which means individuals can be detained without formal charges based on suspicions of involvement in unlawful activities. This raises concerns about the right to liberty, as individuals may be deprived of their freedom without the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
• The admissibility of confessions made to police officers under the UAPA raises issues related to the right against self-incrimination. There is a risk that such confessions might be obtained under duress or coercion, compromising the fairness of legal proceedings.
• Designating individuals as terrorists and proscribing organizations without due process may impinge on the right to a fair trial. This includes the right to be informed of charges, the right to legal representation, and the right to present a defense.
• The UAPA provides authorities with the power to proscribe organizations as terrorist organizations, limiting their activities. Critics argue that this may infringe upon the right to freedom of association, particularly when such designations are made without sufficient evidence or proper legal procedures.
• The potential for misuse of the UAPA to target individuals or organizations critical of the government raises concerns about freedom of expression. If the act is used to suppress dissent or stifle legitimate political or social activities, it can undermine this fundamental right.
• The UAPA grants authorities the power to intercept communications and conduct surveillance on individuals suspected of engaging in unlawful activities. This raises concerns about the right to privacy, as individuals may be subjected to intrusive surveillance without adequate safeguards.
• Human rights standards require that any restrictions on rights, such as those imposed by the UAPA, must be proportionate and necessary for achieving a legitimate aim. Critics argue that the broad scope of the UAPA may lead to disproportionate measures that unduly restrict individual rights.
• The UAPA's compatibility with international human rights standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), is a critical point of consideration. Ensuring that the act aligns with these standards is essential to upholding human rights principles.

4. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Article 22 of the Constitution

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Article 22 of the Indian Constitution lie in how the UAPA's provisions for arrest and detention intersect with the constitutional safeguards provided under Article 22. 

• Article 22 provides certain protections to individuals who are arrested or detained. It outlines the rights of arrested individuals, emphasizing safeguards to prevent arbitrary or unlawful detention.
• Article 22(1) states that every person who is arrested and detained shall be informed, as soon as may be, of the grounds for such arrest. This provision ensures that individuals are aware of the reasons behind their arrest, preventing arbitrary or secret detentions.
• Article 22(1) also guarantees the right of an arrested person to consult and be defended by a legal practitioner of their choice. This ensures that individuals have access to legal assistance during the legal process, contributing to a fair and just legal system.
• The UAPA includes provisions for preventive detention, allowing authorities to detain individuals to prevent them from committing certain offences. However, Article 22(4) allows preventive detention only under specific circumstances, and certain safeguards must be followed, such as providing the detenu with the grounds for detention and an opportunity to make a representation against the detention.
• Article 22(4) further mandates that a person detained under a law providing for preventive detention must be afforded the earliest opportunity to make a representation against the detention. Additionally, the case of every person detained is required to be placed before an advisory board within three months.
• The UAPA allows for confessions made to police officers to be admissible in court, subject to certain safeguards. However, this provision has been a point of concern concerning Article 22, as confessions obtained under duress or coercion may violate the right against self-incrimination.
• Article 22(2) ensures the right to be brought before the nearest magistrate within 24 hours of arrest, excluding the time necessary for the journey. This provision aims to prevent prolonged detention without judicial oversight and contributes to the right to a speedy trial.

Source: The Indian Express

MAHA KUMBH MELA

• The Mahakumbh Mela is one of the largest and most revered religious gatherings in the world, celebrated with deep spiritual fervor by Hindus. Rooted in ancient mythology, this grand event takes place every 12 years at four sacred locations in India: Haridwar, Prayagraj (Allahabad), Ujjain, and Nasik, along the banks of the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati (mythical), Godavari, and Shipra. Each of these cities hosts the Kumbh Mela on a rotating basis, with the Mahakumbh being the grandest of all, celebrated exclusively at Prayagraj
• The origins of the Kumbh Mela are deeply intertwined with Hindu mythology, particularly the legend of the Samudra Manthan or the churning of the ocean by the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras).
• According to the tale, during this cosmic event, a pot (kumbh) containing the nectar of immortality (amrita) emerged. A fierce battle ensued, and as the gods tried to secure the pot, drops of nectar fell at four locations, sanctifying them forever. These locations are now the sites of the Kumbh Mela
• The Mahakumbh Mela is considered an unparalleled opportunity for spiritual purification. Millions of pilgrims, saints, and seers, often referred to as sadhus or naga sadhus (ascetics), gather to take a ritualistic dip in the holy rivers.
• It is believed that bathing in these sacred waters during the auspicious period washes away sins and grants liberation (moksha). The event also serves as a vibrant showcase of India’s rich cultural, spiritual, and religious traditions

The Mahakumbh spans over several weeks and follows a strict astrological calendar, with specific dates deemed highly auspicious for bathing. The main highlights include: Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): This is a ceremonial bath performed by akharas (monastic orders of sadhus) in a grand procession. Religious Discourses and Bhajans: Saints and spiritual leaders deliver teachings, while devotional music and chants fill the air. Pilgrimage Activities: Pilgrims participate in rituals, offer prayers, and make donations to seek blessings

 

 

3. How does Mahakumbh Mela reflect the ethos of Indian civilization?

 

 

The Mahakumbh Mela is a profound reflection of the ethos of Indian civilization, embodying its spiritual depth, cultural diversity, and enduring traditions. As the world's largest religious gathering, it serves as a living testament to the principles and values that have shaped Indian society for millennia.

 

Here’s how it encapsulates the essence of Indian civilization:

 

• At its core, the Mahakumbh Mela highlights the Indian ethos of spirituality and the eternal quest for liberation (moksha). The belief in the purifying power of the sacred rivers and the ritual of bathing symbolizes the desire to cleanse one’s soul, transcend worldly attachments, and achieve salvation. This reflects the deep spiritual underpinnings of Indian civilization, where the pursuit of higher consciousness is a fundamental goal
• The Mela’s origins in the legend of the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) embody the Indian tradition of weaving mythology into everyday life. This connection to divine stories fosters a sense of continuity with the past and reinforces the sacredness of specific places and practices. It demonstrates how mythology serves as a moral and philosophical guide in Indian civilization
• The Mahakumbh Mela brings together millions of people from diverse backgrounds, castes, and regions, showcasing the inclusivity that is central to Indian society. Regardless of social or economic status, all pilgrims are united by their shared faith and devotion, reflecting the civilization’s emphasis on equality before the divine
• Indian civilization values a harmonious balance between material and spiritual existence. The Mahakumbh Mela provides a platform where people temporarily renounce material comforts, focusing instead on spiritual growth through rituals, prayers, and discourses. This mirrors the Indian ideal of integrating spiritual practices into daily life
• The gathering of saints, scholars, and ascetics at the Mahakumbh Mela represents India’s age-old tradition of intellectual and spiritual discourse. These exchanges of ideas and teachings at the Mela highlight the civilization’s emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment
• The focus on the sacred rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Godavari, and Shipra—reflects the Indian ethos of reverence for nature. These rivers are seen not just as physical entities but as life-giving forces and symbols of divinity, embodying the civilization’s holistic view of the environment
• The Mela’s continuity over thousands of years showcases the resilience and adaptability of Indian civilization. Despite changing political, social, and economic landscapes, the Mahakumbh Mela remains a thriving tradition, underscoring the civilization’s ability to preserve its core values while embracing change

 

4. What is Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)?

 

• In recent decades, the concept of "cultural heritage" has expanded significantly, largely due to initiatives developed by UNESCO. Cultural heritage now encompasses more than just monuments and collections of artifacts.
• It also includes living traditions and expressions passed down from ancestors to future generations, such as oral traditions, performing arts, social customs, rituals, festivals, and knowledge related to nature, the universe, or traditional craftsmanship.
• Despite its fragility, intangible cultural heritage plays a crucial role in preserving cultural diversity amid growing globalization. Gaining an understanding of the intangible cultural heritage of different communities fosters intercultural dialogue and promotes respect for diverse ways of life.
• The value of intangible cultural heritage lies not in the cultural expressions themselves, but in the wealth of knowledge and skills passed on through them from one generation to the next.
• This transfer of knowledge has social and economic significance for both minority and mainstream groups within a country, and it holds importance for both developing and developed nations

 

5.What is the Intangible Cultural Heritage of India?

 

India, with its rich and diverse cultural heritage, has an extensive list of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) elements recognized for their importance in preserving the cultural identity of its various communities. These practices and traditions span the country’s vast geography and reflect its cultural diversity. Some prominent examples of ICH from India include:

• Kathakali (Kerala): A classical dance-drama form that integrates dance, music, and acting to tell stories from Hindu mythology. Its elaborate costumes, facial expressions, and dramatic storytelling are distinctive features.

• Ramlila (Across India): A theatrical performance of the life of Lord Rama, based on the Hindu epic Ramayana. This performance tradition is carried out during the festival of Dussehra.

• Yoga (Across India): An ancient practice combining physical postures, breathing techniques, meditation, and philosophy. It is widely practiced as a means of achieving mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

• Vedic Chanting (Across India): The recitation of ancient Vedic scriptures in a specific rhythmic and melodic manner. It is an important spiritual practice, especially in Hindu rituals and ceremonies.

• Chhau Dance (Eastern India): A martial arts-based dance form from the regions of Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal. It incorporates acrobatics and masks to depict mythological and historical themes.

• Madhubani Paintings (Bihar): A traditional form of painting known for its intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and depiction of themes from nature, mythology, and social life.

• Kolkata’s Durga Puja (West Bengal): One of the largest and most celebrated festivals in India, Durga Puja involves elaborate rituals, artistic displays, processions, and offerings to the goddess Durga. It is a living tradition that brings communities together.

• Pukka (Madhya Pradesh): A traditional system of medicine and healing practices in tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh, using indigenous knowledge of plants and herbs for health and well-being.

• Traditional Cuisine (Across India): Culinary traditions, such as the preparation of dishes like biryani, dosa, or khichdi, that carry deep cultural meaning and are unique to various regions and communities.

• Craftsmanship (Across India): Techniques such as handloom weaving, pottery, carpet-making, and embroidery that are integral to India’s craft traditions, passed down through generations.

• Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage (Uttarakhand): The spiritual and religious journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, which is central to various belief systems, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

• Wangala Dance (Meghalaya): A traditional dance performed by the Garo tribe to celebrate the harvest, featuring rhythmic drumming and colorful costumes.

• Ghoomar Dance (Rajasthan): A traditional folk dance that is performed by women in swirling movements, often during festivals and celebratory occasions.

• Pukka Dance (Sikkim): A unique traditional dance form from Sikkim that incorporates rich cultural expressions of the region’s diverse communities.

• Sufi Music and Whirling (Across India): The mystical Sufi tradition in India, particularly in places like Delhi, Hyderabad, and Ajmer, involves devotional singing, poetry, and the iconic whirling dance that represents the soul's union with the divine.

 

 

6. Challenges in organising the Kumbh Mela

 

• The Mahakumbh, the world’s largest gathering, will take place in Prayagraj this year from January 13 to February 26. It is anticipated that around 40 crore people will take part in this religious event.
• Spanning 4,000 hectares along the riverbank, the Maha Kumbh is expected to draw a crowd of at least 40 crore. The event will be organized with an estimated budget of approximately Rs 6,382 crore, of which over Rs 5,600 crore has already been allocated for the event and related projects. In comparison, the 2012 Maha Kumbh, held during the Samajwadi Party’s tenure, had a budget of Rs 1,152 crore and attracted nearly 12 crore visitors.
• The Ministry of Culture has implemented special cybersecurity measures to protect the large number of devotees attending from around the world. This includes the deployment of 56 cyber experts for patrolling, the establishment of a Maha Kumbh cyber police station to handle online threats, 40 Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs), and a dedicated helpline number.
• To assist with crowd management, monitor crowd density, report incidents, and maintain cleanliness, 2,300 CCTV cameras will be installed at the event site and throughout Prayagraj. Additionally, 99 temporary parking areas, covering 1,850 hectares, will be set up, along with over 1.45 lakh toilets across the mela area.
• One of the primary challenges, aside from managing the crowds, is the water channelization due to delayed rainfall and higher-than-usual Ganga river levels. To address this, IIT Kanpur has been enlisted for crowd control and security planning, while IIT Guwahati experts are focusing on river flow management.
• The state has also requested the railway ministry to increase train services to Prayagraj, especially during the Mauni Amavasya snan when a large number of visitors are expected. A source mentioned that, in 2019, around 500 special trains were used for the Ardh Kumbh, and this number is likely to rise to about 1,000. Nearly 300 trains are expected to operate around the Mauni Amavasya snan period

For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance.   For Mains:  General Studies I: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times General Studies II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation

 

Previous year Questions 1.With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: (2020) Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of the Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 2.With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: (2017) It is a song and dance performance Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 only 3.With reference to India’s culture and tradition, what is ‘Kalaripayattu’? (2014) (a) It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India (b) It is an ancient style bronze and brass work still found in the southern part of the Coromandel area (c) It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar (d) It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India

 

Source: Indianexpress

WATER CYCLE

 

 

1. Context

 

Climate change has been “wreaking havoc” on Earth’s water cycle by disrupting how water circulates between the ground, oceans and atmosphere, according to a new report. This has led to extreme precipitation, ferocious floods and droughts, which affected billions of people across the world in 2024.

 

2. What is a Water Cycle?

 

• The freshwater cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement and recycling of freshwater within the Earth's atmosphere, surface, and underground systems. It ensures that water is distributed across various ecosystems and supports life on Earth

• The water cycle refers to the continuous circulation of water in its three states—solid, liquid, and gas—on the Earth's surface, beneath it, and in the atmosphere.
• The cycle is primarily driven by solar energy and temperature changes. For example, water from surfaces such as land or bodies of water turns into water vapor through evaporation.
• Plants also play a role by absorbing water from the soil and releasing it into the atmosphere as water vapor through transpiration.
• This vapor eventually condenses to form clouds, which later release water back to Earth as precipitation, such as rain or snow.
• Once precipitation occurs, water can accumulate in ice caps, oceans, lakes, rivers, or glaciers, be absorbed by plants, or infiltrate the soil and move deeper underground. The process then repeats itself

 

3. 2024 Global Water Monitor Report highlights

 

The 2024 Global Water Monitor Report highlights significant disruptions in the global water cycle due to escalating climate extremes.

The report, ‘2024 Global Water Monitor Report’, was produced by an international team of researchers from universities in Australia, Saudi Arabia, China, Germany, and elsewhere. For their analysis, the researchers used data from ground stations and satellites to access water variables such as soil moisture, rainfall etc

 

Key findings from the report include:

 

• Record-Breaking Temperatures: The year 2024 experienced unprecedented global temperatures, intensifying the water cycle and leading to severe weather events
• Increased Water-Related Disasters: There was a notable rise in the frequency and severity of water-related disasters, including flash floods, river floods, droughts, tropical cyclones, and landslides. These events resulted in over 8,700 fatalities, displaced 40 million people, and caused economic losses exceeding US $550 billion
• Impact of Climate Change: The report underscores that climate change is exacerbating water-related disasters. Rising temperatures, driven by fossil fuel consumption, are intensifying monsoons, cyclones, and other storm systems, leading to increased rainfall intensity and flooding
• Terrestrial Water Storage Variations: Dry regions worldwide continued to experience low terrestrial water storage levels. Conversely, areas in western, central, and eastern Africa saw significant increases in water storage
• Call to Action: The findings emphasize the urgent need for global leaders to prioritize addressing the water crisis. The report calls for transformative changes in water consumption practices, substantial investments in infrastructure, and the implementation of appropriate water pricing mechanisms to mitigate the escalating crisis

 

4. How is climate change impacting the water cycle?

 

• Climate change is profoundly altering the water cycle, intensifying its processes and causing significant disruptions to natural water patterns worldwide. These changes are manifesting in various ways, leading to more extreme and unpredictable weather events that directly impact ecosystems, water availability, and human livelihoods.
• One of the most noticeable effects of climate change is the increase in global temperatures, which accelerates evaporation. As the planet warms, water from oceans, rivers, lakes, and soil evaporates at a faster rate.
• This results in higher levels of moisture in the atmosphere, which can fuel heavier and more intense precipitation events. Consequently, regions already prone to rainfall may experience severe flooding due to this intensified cycle.
• At the same time, the warming climate is causing glaciers, ice caps, and snowpacks to melt more rapidly. These frozen reserves of freshwater are critical for many regions, as they provide water for agriculture, drinking, and hydroelectric power during warmer months.
• As these ice reserves diminish, not only does this threaten seasonal water availability, but it also contributes to rising sea levels. This, in turn, leads to saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifers, particularly in coastal areas, further reducing the availability of drinkable water.
• In other parts of the world, climate change is leading to prolonged periods of drought. High temperatures and reduced rainfall are intensifying dry conditions, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
• These droughts disrupt agriculture, deplete drinking water supplies, and contribute to desertification, where fertile lands gradually transform into barren deserts. Such conditions are made worse by the over-extraction of groundwater during droughts, as aquifers are unable to recharge adequately due to the lack of consistent precipitation.
• River systems are also undergoing significant changes. In some areas, reduced rainfall and increased evaporation are leading to lower river flows, while in others, glacial melt and heavy rains are causing excessive flows and frequent flooding. These altered patterns disrupt ecosystems that rely on consistent water availability and create challenges for human infrastructure, such as dams and irrigation systems.
• Moreover, the warming atmosphere can hold more water vapor, which intensifies the power of storms and cyclones. As a result, extreme weather events like hurricanes, typhoons, and monsoons are becoming more severe, leading to catastrophic damage in affected regions. These intensified storms also create feedback loops, where the water cycle's acceleration perpetuates even more extreme conditions.
• In essence, climate change is amplifying the natural variability of the water cycle. It is making wet regions wetter, dry regions drier, and weather patterns less predictable. This imbalance has far-reaching consequences, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation strategies, sustainable water management, and global efforts to mitigate climate change’s effects.
• Protecting water resources and ensuring their equitable distribution are critical to safeguarding the well-being of both people and ecosystems in the face of a rapidly changing climate

 

For Prelims: General issues on Environmental ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization   For Mains: General Studies III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

 

 

Source: Indianexpress

 

HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS (HMPV)

 

 

 

1. Context

 

China’s diseases control authority said that it was piloting a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. The country was already witnessing an upward trend in overall infections as of mid-December, and is expecting to see more respiratory infections in the winter and spring

 

 

2. What is human metapneumovirus?

 

• Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that typically causes mild infections resembling the common cold. Discovered by researchers in 2001, it is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as the viruses responsible for measles and mumps.
• HMPV can lead to infections in both the upper and lower respiratory tracts and is most commonly observed during the winter and early spring months. Children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of infection and potential complications.
• The symptoms, which are similar to those of a common cold, include cough, nasal congestion or runny nose, sore throat, fever, and wheezing. The incubation period is estimated to be three to six days.
• For most individuals, the illness resolves on its own within a few days with adequate rest and supportive care. However, in some cases, complications like bronchitis or pneumonia may develop, necessitating medical attention

 

3. Spreading and treatment

 

• HMPV is transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. This includes exposure to respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, physical interactions like handshakes or hugs with an infected person, or handling items such as doorknobs, phones, or keyboards that carry the virus, followed by touching the face, nose, eyes, or mouth.
• Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for HMPV. Most individuals manage symptoms with over-the-counter medications for fever and pain, possibly supplemented by a decongestant.
• Antibiotics are ineffective against HMPV. However, the virus can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, refraining from touching the face, and wearing a mask to prevent spreading the virus if you suspect you are infected. Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD should take extra precautions to reduce their risk of infection

4. India's response

 

Following reports from China, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), under the Union Health Ministry, is actively monitoring cases of respiratory and seasonal influenza across India and maintaining communication with international agencies. Confirmed cases of HMPV have been reported in two infants from Karnataka, one case in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and two children in Chennai. In a video statement, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda emphasized that HMPV is not a newly discovered virus, explaining that it was first identified in 2001 and has been present worldwide for many years. He noted that the virus spreads through respiratory transmission and assured the public that the country’s health systems and surveillance networks are alert, emphasizing that there is no cause for concern

 

 

 

For Prelims:  Avian influenza H5N2, Avian influenza H5N1, Bird Flu, Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA), influenza A viruses, Genomic surveillance, Pathogens, and Viruses.   For Mains: 1.Discuss the impact of the H5N2 Avian Influenza virus on public health. What measures can be implemented at national and international levels to mitigate the spread of avian influenza viruses and minimize their impact on both poultry production and human health?

 

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases? (UPSC 2015) A. AIDS B.  Bird flu C.  Dengue D.  Swine flu Answer: D 2. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2010) 1. Every individual in the population is an equally susceptible host for Swine Flu. 2. Antibiotics have no role in the primary treatment of Swine Flu. 3. To prevent the future spread of Swine Flu in the epidemic area, the swine (pigs) must all be culled. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A 3. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2013) 1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for the generation of energy. 2. Viruses can be cultured in any synthetic medium. 3. Viruses are transmitted from one organism to another by biological vectors only. Select the correct answer using the codes given below. A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A  4. Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect (UPSC 2016) Bacteria Fungi Plants Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only  (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d)

 

Source: The Hindu