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DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS, 29 MAY 2025

INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION (IIP)

 

1. Context

Growth in industrial activity in the country slowed to an eight-month low of 2.7% in April 2025, dragged down by lower activity in several sectors, including mining and quarrying, electricity, primary goods, infrastructure and construction, and consumer non-durables, according to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for April 2025 released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation

2. About the Index of Industrial Production (IIP)

  • The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is a macroeconomic indicator that measures the changes in the volume of production of a basket of industrial goods over some time.
  • It is a composite index that reflects the performance of the industrial sector of an economy.
  • The IIP is compiled and released by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) in India.
  • The IIP is calculated using a Laspeyres index formula, which means that the weights assigned to different industries are based on their relative importance in a base year. The current base year for the IIP is 2011-12.
  • The eight core sector industries represent about 40% of the weight of items that are included in the IIP.
  • The eight core industries are Refinery Products, Electricity, Steel, Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Cement and Fertilizers.
  • It covers 407 item groups included into 3 categories viz. Manufacturing, Mining and Electricity.
  • The IIP is a useful tool for assessing the health of the industrial sector and the overall economy.
  • It is used by policymakers, businesses, and investors to track trends in industrial production and make informed decisions.

3. Significance of IIP

The IIP is a significant economic indicator that provides insights into the following aspects

  • The IIP reflects the growth or decline of the industrial sector, which is a major contributor to overall economic growth.
  • The IIP measures the level of industrial activity, indicating the production volume of various industries.
  • The IIP serves as a guide for policymakers to assess the effectiveness of economic policies and make informed decisions.
  • Businesses use the IIP to assess market conditions, make production plans, and evaluate investment opportunities.
  • The IIP influences investor sentiment as it reflects the overall health of the industrial sector.

4. Service Sector and IIP

  • The IIP does not include the service sector. It focuses on the production of goods in the industrial sector, such as manufacturing, mining, and electricity.
  • The service sector is measured by a separate index, the Index of Services Production (ISP).
  • The IIP data is released monthly by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) in India.
  • The data is released with a lag of six weeks, allowing for the collection and compilation of information from various industries.

5. Users of IIP Data

The IIP data is used by a wide range of stakeholders, including:

  • Government agencies and central banks use the IIP to assess economic conditions and formulate policies.
  • Companies use the IIP to evaluate market trends, make production decisions, and assess investment opportunities.
  • Investors use the IIP to gauge the health of the industrial sector and make investment decisions.
  • Economic analysts and researchers use the IIP to study economic trends and develop forecasts.
  • The IIP is widely reported in the media and is of interest to the general public as an indicator of economic performance.

6. Manufacturing Drives Industrial Production Growth

  • Factory output gained on the back of a 9.3 per cent increase in manufacturing, which accounts for 77.6 per cent of the weight of the IIP (Index of Industrial Production).
  • Manufacturing output had grown by 5 per cent in July and had contracted by 0.5 per cent in August 2022.
  • In absolute terms, it improved to 143.5 in August from 141.8 in July and 131.3 in the year-ago period.
  • As per the IIP data, seven of the 23 sectors in manufacturing registered a contraction in August, with furniture, apparel, and computer and electronics among the significant non-performers.
  • Among the performing sectors, fabricated metal products, electrical equipment and basic metals fared better.
  • Garments and chemicals witnessed negative growth. This can be attributed to lower growth in exports as these two are export-dependent.
  • The electronics industry also witnessed negative growth, which again can be linked to existing high stocks and lower export demand.
  • In terms of the use-based industries, consumer durables output returned to positive territory for the second time this fiscal with 5.7 per cent growth in August, reflecting a pickup in consumption demand.
  • However, it came on the back of a 4.4 per cent contraction in consumer durables output in the year-ago period.
  • Primary, infrastructure/ construction, and capital goods recorded double-digit growth rates in August at 12.4 per cent, 14.9 per cent and 12.6 per cent, respectively.
 
For Prelims: The Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Central Statistical Organisation, 
For Mains: 
1. Discuss the significance of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) as an economic indicator and its role in assessing the health of the industrial sector and the overall economy. (250 Words)
 
 
 Previous Year Questions
 
1. In India, in the overall Index of Industrial Production, the Indices of Eight Core Industries have a combined weight of 37.90%. Which of the following are among those Eight Core Industries? (UPSC CSE 2012)
1. Cement
2. Fertilizers
3. Natural gas
4. Refinery products
5. Textiles
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. 1 and 5 only       B. 2, 3 and 4 only           C. 1, 2, 3 and 4 only         D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
 
Answer: C
 
 
Source: indianexpress
 
 

PARIS AGREEMENT

1. Context

The United Nations warned on Wednesday that there is a 70% chance that average warming from 2025 to 2029 would exceed the 1.5 degrees Celsius international benchmark.

2. What is Paris Agreement?

  • Paris Agreement is a multinational agreement that was signed as part of the UNFCCC with the intention of reducing and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
  • 196 nations ratified the climate change agreement at the Conference of the Parties (COP 21) in Paris in December 2015. It is an international agreement that is binding on all parties involved.
  • Achieving the long-term temperature goal was the purpose of the Paris Climate Accord. To attain a world without greenhouse gas emissions by the middle of the century, nations strive to peak global greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible.
  • The Paris Climate Accord's major objective is to keep global warming well below 2° Celsius and ideally below 1.5° Celsius in comparison to pre-industrial levels.
  • The Paris Agreement is a watershed moment in the multilateral climate change process because it brings all nations together for the first time in a binding agreement to undertake ambitious efforts to combat climate change and adapt to its effects.

3. COP21

  • To keep the rise in the average world temperature to well under 2°C above pre-industrial levels. To continue making efforts to keep global warming to 1.5°C over pre-industrial levels, knowing that doing so would greatly lessen the dangers and effects of climate change.
  • The Agreement also mentions achieving the global peaking of emissions by the middle of the century while taking into account the fact that developing nation Parties will have a longer peaking period.

4. What are NDCs

  • At the Conference of the Parties (COP21) of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which took place in Paris in December 2015, nations from all over the world pledged to establish a new global climate agreement by that time.
  • In advance of a new international agreement, nations have committed to publicly state their Intended Nationally Determined Contributions or the climate activities they plan to take after 2020.
  • The 2015 agreement's ambitious goals and whether the world is put on a course toward a low-carbon, climate-resilient future will be largely determined by the INDCs.
  • The Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) of India has also been submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
  • Countries communicate actions they will take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to meet the Paris Agreement's goals in their NDCs.
  • Countries also communicate actions they will take to build resilience to adapt to the effects of rising temperatures in their NDCs.
Image Source: The Hindu

5. Highlights of the report on the performance of the Paris Agreement

  • After the signing of the Agreement, the last eight years (2015-2022) have consecutively been the warmest years on record globally.
  • The situation could have been far worse if the La Nina weather event had not occurred in the past three years, which has a cooling effect on the weather system.
  • Globally updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius have failed even to achieve a 2-degree Celsius target.
  • The Paris Agreement has not been able to equitably phase out fossil fuels predominantly responsible for the climate crisis.
  • Neither the NDCs nor the disaster risk reduction and climate risk management plans are in place to combat climate-induced extreme weather phenomena.

6. A series of climate records fell over in 2022, the report showed. 

  • Global mean temperature rising: The global mean temperature in 2022 was 1.15°C, ranging from 1.02°C to 1.28°C above the 1850–1900 average. This was the highest on record for the past eight years. The value is about 0.2°C higher than the statistic before 2015. The pre-industrialisation era is considered a benchmark as there was no significant anthropogenic emission at the time.
  • Record melting of Antarctica ice: Sea ice in Antarctica dropped to an all-time low, 1.92 million square kilometres, on February 25, 2022. This was almost a million sq km below the mean of the last three decades till 2020. 
  • Greenhouse gases surged: The levels of three major greenhouse gases — carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide — continued to increase in 2022. The data shows that growth rates of all three gases have increased around 20 per cent compared to 2011-15 levels.
  • Sea level rise doubled: Global mean sea level continued to rise in 2022. It has doubled to 4.62 millimetres per year during 2013–2022 from 2.27 mm recorded in the first decade of the satellite record (1993–2002). The rate of increase quickened after 2015. Ocean heat content, which measures this gain in energy, reached a new observed record.
  • Record thinning of glaciers: Long-term observational data is available for glaciers, which were found to have thinned over 1.3 metres between October 2021 and October 2022. The loss is much larger than before. The cumulative thickness loss since 1970 amounts to almost 30 metres.
  • More than half of the oceans saw marine heatwaves in 2022:  Despite continuing La Nina conditions, 58 per cent of the ocean surface experienced at least one marine heatwave during 2022. 
  • Heatwaves killed 15,000 in Europe: Record-breaking heatwaves affected China and Europe during the summer, with excess deaths associated with the heat in Europe exceeding 15000. Casualties were reported across Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, France and Portugal.
  • 1,600 suffered deaths from weather extremes in India: India suffered from significant flooding at various stages during monsoon, particularly in the northeast in June, with over 700 deaths reported from flooding and landslides and a further 900 from lightning.
For Prelims: Paris Agreement, Conference of the Parties (COP 21), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), UNFCCC, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
For Mains: 1. Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC 2021)

 

Previous year Question

1. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)

1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017.

2. The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility for global warming and committed to donate $1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries cope with climate change.
 
Select the correct answer using the code given below
A. 1 and 3 only
B.  2 only
C.  2 and 3 only
D.  1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
 
2. The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of ( UPSC 2016)

A. pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East

B. plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change

C. capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

D. plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals

Answer: B

Source: Down to Earth

 

KATCHATHEEVU ISLAND 

 
 
 
1. Context 
 
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Wednesday said that retrieving Katchatheevu from Sri Lanka could be the only permanent solution to the issues faced by fishermen in the State.
 
 

2. Location of Katchatheevu Island

Katchatheevu is a small, uninhabited island covering 285 acres situated in the Palk Strait, positioned between India and Sri Lanka. It measures approximately 1.6 kilometres in length and slightly over 300 meters wide at its widest point.

  • The island is located northeast of Rameswaram, around 33 kilometres from the Indian coastline. It is situated approximately 62 kilometres southwest of Jaffna, which is at the northern tip of Sri Lanka. Moreover, Katchatheevu is about 24 kilometres away from Delft Island, an inhabited island that belongs to Sri Lanka.
  • The notable feature on Katchatheevu Island is the St. Anthony’s Church, built in the early 20th century. This Catholic shrine holds cultural and religious importance, especially during its annual festival. Christian priests from both India and Sri Lanka conduct services during this festival, attracting devotees from both countries who make pilgrimages to the island. In 2023, around 2,500 Indians travelled from Rameswaram to participate in this significant event.
  • Despite its religious and cultural significance, Katchatheevu is not suitable for permanent human settlement due to the absence of a reliable source of drinking water on the island. This limitation restricts any long-term habitation on the island, making it primarily a site for occasional religious gatherings and pilgrimages.

 

3. Historical Background of Katchatheevu Island

Katchatheevu Island, formed as a result of a volcanic eruption in the 14th century, holds a relatively recent place in the geological timeline.

  • During the early medieval period, Katchatheevu was under the control of the Jaffna kingdom of Sri Lanka. However, by the 17th century, control shifted to the Ramnad Zamindari, which was based in Ramanathapuram, approximately 55 kilometres northwest of Rameswaram.
  • With the advent of colonial rule, Katchatheevu became part of the Madras Presidency under the British administration. In 1921, both India and Sri Lanka, then British colonies, laid claim to Katchatheevu to delineate fishing boundaries in the region.
  • A survey conducted during this period marked Katchatheevu as part of Sri Lanka. However, a British delegation from India contested this claim, asserting ownership of the island by the Ramnad kingdom.
  • The dispute over the ownership of Katchatheevu persisted until 1974 when a final resolution was reached. This resolution marked a significant milestone in clarifying the status of the island and delineating the maritime boundaries between India and Sri Lanka.

 

4. Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement and Fishing Rights

In 1974, efforts were made by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to resolve the maritime border dispute between India and Sri Lanka permanently. This initiative led to the establishment of the 'Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement,' which resulted in the cession of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka by India.

  • Under the agreement, Indira Gandhi decided to "cede" Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka, perceiving the island to hold little strategic value for India. This move was intended to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two neighbouring countries.
  • Despite ceding the island, Indian fishermen were granted continued access to Katchatheevu as per the agreement, maintaining their traditional fishing practices in the region. However, the agreement did not explicitly address the issue of fishing rights, leading to subsequent challenges and differing interpretations.
  • Sri Lanka interpreted Indian fishermen's access to Katchatheevu as limited to activities such as resting, drying nets, and visiting the Catholic shrine, without requiring a visa. This interpretation created ambiguity regarding the extent of fishing rights granted to Indian fishermen in the waters surrounding Katchatheevu.
  • In 1976, another agreement during India's Emergency period further complicated matters by prohibiting both countries from fishing in each other's Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). However, Katchatheevu lies at the boundary of both countries' EEZs, adding to the uncertainty surrounding fishing rights and activities in the region.
  • The agreements made in the 1970s regarding Katchatheevu and fishing rights have left unresolved issues, contributing to periodic tensions and disputes between Indian fishermen and Sri Lankan authorities. The lack of clear delineation and mutual understanding regarding fishing access around Katchatheevu continues to be a contentious issue between India and Sri Lanka.

5. Impact of the Sri Lankan Civil War on Katchatheevu

The period between 1983 and 2009 was marked by the Sri Lankan Civil War, during which the border dispute involving Katchatheevu took a back seat amidst the intense conflict.

  • During the civil war, Sri Lankan naval forces were primarily focused on combating the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) based in Jaffna. This preoccupation allowed Indian fishermen to venture deep into Sri Lankan waters without significant repercussions. Incursions by Indian fishermen, especially using larger trawlers, became common during this time. These activities led to tensions as they not only overfished but also caused damage to Sri Lankan fishing equipment and vessels.
  • The end of the civil war in 2009 brought about significant changes. Sri Lanka bolstered its maritime defences and shifted its attention to issues such as illegal fishing activities by Indian fishermen.
  • Indian fishermen, facing resource depletion in Indian waters, continued to venture into Sri Lankan waters as they had done for years. However, with increased surveillance and stricter enforcement post-civil war, they began facing arrests and other consequences by the Sri Lankan navy.
  • To this day, the Sri Lankan navy regularly apprehends Indian fishermen for illegal fishing activities in Sri Lankan waters. Incidents of alleged custodial torture and deaths have also been reported, further complicating the situation. Each such incident reignites demands to revisit the issue of Katchatheevu and its impact on fishing rights and maritime boundaries between India and Sri Lanka. The historical context of the island's ownership and fishing rights continues to be a source of contention and debate between the two nations.

 

6. Tamil Nadu's Stance on Katchatheevu

The issue of Katchatheevu holds significant political and emotional weight in Tamil Nadu, with successive governments and leaders advocating for its retrieval and the restoration of fishing rights for Tamil fishermen.

  • The decision to "cede" Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka in 1974 without consulting the Tamil Nadu state assembly sparked immediate protests. This decision was seen as infringing on traditional fishing rights and livelihoods of Indian Tamil fishermen, given the historical ties of the Ramnad Zamindari to the island.
  • The Tamil Nadu Assembly has consistently demanded the retrieval of Katchatheevu and the restoration of fishing rights. Leaders like J Jayalalitha and MK Stalin, among others, have actively pursued this agenda through legal and diplomatic channels.
  • In 2008, Jayalalitha filed a petition arguing that ceding Katchatheevu required a constitutional amendment and had adversely affected fishermen's rights. Similar efforts were made by other leaders, including appeals to the Supreme Court.
  • Despite Tamil Nadu's persistent demands, the Union government's stance has remained unchanged. It asserts that since Katchatheevu has been under dispute historically, no territorial or sovereignty claims were ceded.
  • While there is vocal demand for Katchatheevu's retrieval, practical challenges hinder such efforts. The Union government has pointed out that revisiting Katchatheevu's status would require drastic measures, potentially leading to diplomatic complexities or conflict.

 

7. The Way Forward
 
Resolving the Katchatheevu issue requires a delicate approach that acknowledges historical claims, addresses Tamil Nadu's concerns, and prioritises peaceful coexistence with Sri Lanka. Open communication, diplomatic efforts, and a focus on mutually beneficial solutions like designated fishing zones or joint patrols hold promise for a sustainable resolution.
 
 
For Prelims: India-Sri Lanka, Katchatheevu island, LTTE, Sri Lanka Civil War, Exclusive Economic Zones
For Mains: 
1. The Katchatheevu dispute highlights the complexities of maritime border demarcation. How can India ensure the security of its fishermen and promote sustainable fishing practices in the Palk Strait? (250 words)
2. You are a senior diplomat tasked with finding a solution to the Katchatheevu dispute. Outline a framework for negotiations that considers the historical, economic, and social aspects of the issue. (250 words)
 
 
Previous Year Questions 
 
1. Katchatheevu Island was ceded by India to which Country in 1974 (SSC CPO 2017)
A. Sri Lanka           B.Maldives           C.Indonesia               D.Myanmar
 
 
2. With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention.
2. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea.
3. The Exclusive Economic zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.
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
 
Answers: 1-A, 2-D
 
Source: The Indian Express
 
 

MINIMUM SUPPORT PRICE

1. Context

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday approved the increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 kharif crops for 2025-26. The total outlay is nearly ₹2.07 lakh crore.

2. What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP)?

  • MSP is the minimum price a farmer must pay for their food grains as guaranteed by the government. They are recommended by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
  • The CACP submits its recommendations to the government in the form of Price Policy Reports every year.
  • After considering the report and views of the state governments and also keeping in view the overall demand and supply situation in the country, the central government takes the final decision.
  • The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is the nodal agency for procurement along with State agencies, at the beginning of the sowing season.
The minimum support price (MSP) is set for 23 crops every year. They include:
  • 7 cereals (paddy, wheat, maize, bajra, jowar, ragi, and barley)
  • 5 pulses (chana, tur/arhar, moong, urad, and Masur)
  • 7 oilseeds (rapeseed-mustard, groundnut, soya bean, sunflower, sesamum, safflower, and Enigerseed) and
  • 4 commercial crops (sugarcane, cotton, copra, and raw jute).

3. How MSP is Calculated?

  • MSP, presently, is based on a formula of 1.5 times the production costs.
  • The CACP projects three kinds of production costs for every crop, both at state and all-India average levels.
  • A2 covers all paid-out costs directly incurred by the farmer — in cash and kind — on seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, hired labour, leased-in land, fuel, irrigation, etc.
  • A2+FL includes A2 plus an imputed value of unpaid family labour.
  • C2: Estimated land rent and the cost of interest on the money taken for farming are added to A2 and FL.
  • Farm unions are demanding that a comprehensive cost calculation (C2) must also include capital assets and the rentals and interest forgone on owned land, as recommended by the National Commission for Farmers.

4. The issue with the calculation of MSP

  • To calculate MSP, the government uses A2+FL cost. The criticism of A2+FL is that it doesn’t cover all costs and that a more representative measure, C2, needs to be used.
  • For example, in the 2017-18 rabi season, CACP data shows that C2 for wheat was 54% higher than A2+FL.
  • The Swaminathan Commission also stated that the MSP should be based on the comprehensive cost of production, which is the C2 method.

5. Key Points about the Farmer's Demand

  • After the recent decision to repeal three contentious farm laws, protesting farmer unions are now pressing for their demand of the legalization of the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
  • They want a legal guarantee for the MSP, which at present is just an indicative or a desired price.
  • Legalising MSPs would put the government under a legal obligation to buy every grain of the crops for which MSPs have been announced.
  • At present, the PM has announced the formation of a committee to make MSP more transparent, as well as to change crop patterns and to promote zero-budget agriculture which would reduce the cost of production.
  • The entire issue of enforcing MSP legally is a tricky, complicated, and multidimensional one, involving lots of factors.
  • Core demand: MSP based on a C2+50% formula should be made a legal entitlement for all agricultural produce. This would mean a 34% increase in the latest MSP for paddy and a 13% increase for wheat. MSP should also be extended to fruit and vegetable farmers who have been excluded from benefits so far.

6. The rationale behind the demand for legislation of MSP

  • Farmers receive less than MSP: In most crops grown across much of India, the prices received by farmers, especially during harvest time, are well below the officially declared MSPs. And since MSPs have no statutory backing, they cannot demand these as a matter of right.
  • Limited procurement by the Govt: Also, the actual procurement at MSP by the Govt. is confined to only about a third of wheat and rice crops (of which half is bought in Punjab and Haryana alone), and 10%-20% of select pulses and oilseeds. According to the Shanta Kumar Committee’s 2015 report, only 6% of the farm households sell wheat and rice to the government at the MSP rates.

7. Challenges associated with MSP

  • Protest by Farmers: Farm unions have been protesting for more than six months on Delhi's outskirts, demanding legislation to guarantee MSP for all farmers for all crops and a repeal of three contentious farm reform laws.
  • MSP and Inflation: When announcing the MSP, inflation should be taken into account. But often the price is not increased up to the mark. For example, this time MSP for Maize has not even considered inflation then how it will benefit farmers! Also, frequent increases in the MSPs can lead to inflation too.
  • High Input Costs: The input costs have been rising faster than sale prices, squeezing the meagre income of the small farmers and driving them into debt.
  • Lack of Mechanism: No mechanism guarantees that every farmer can get at least the MSP as the floor price in the market. So proper mechanisms need to be fixed for all times to come.
  • Restriction in Europe: Even after producing surplus grains, every year a huge portion of these grains gets rotten. This is due to the restrictions under WTO norms, that grain stocks with the FCI (being heavily subsidized due to MSP) cannot be exported.
 
For Prelims: Minimum Support Price, Rabi Crops, WTO, Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Food Corporation of India
For Mains:
1. Explain the concept of Minimum Support Price (MSP) in India. How is MSP determined, and what is its role in ensuring fair prices for agricultural produce? (250 Words)
 
 
Previous Year Questions
 
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2020)
1. In the case of all cereals, pulses, and oil seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) is unlimited in any State/UT of India.
2. In the case of cereals and pulses, the MSP is fixed in any State/UT at a level to which the market price will never rise.
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: D
 
2. Which of the following factors/policies were affecting the price of rice in India in the recent past? (UPSC CSE, 2020)
(1) Minimum Support Price
(2) Government’s trading
(3) Government’s stockpiling
(4) Consumer subsidies
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
 
Answer: D
 
3. In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (UPSC GS1, 2020)
(1) Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops
(2) Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
(3) Social Capital development
(4) Free electricity supply to farmers
(5) Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system
(6) Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments.
In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
(c) 2, 3 and 6 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
 
Answer: C
 
4. The Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane is approved by the (UPSC CSE, 2015)
(a) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
(b) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
(c) Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture
(d) Agricultural Produce Market Committee
 
Answer: A
 
 
 

DARK PATTERNS

1. Context

Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi met with representatives from various e-commerce firms on Wednesday on the subject of “dark patterns”, warning them that app designs that are intended to deceive and nudge users to spend more or compromise their privacy were unfair trade practices. Mr. Joshi said that the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) would take action on such complaints

2. Dark Patterns

  • A dark pattern is a user interface crafted to trick or manipulate users into making choices detrimental to their interests.
  • The term 'Dark Patterns' was coined by user experience designer Harry Brignull in 2010.
  • By using dark patterns, digital platforms take away a user's right to full information about the services they are using and their control over their browsing experience.

3. Types of Dark patterns

Several kinds of dark patterns exist in the online space, and many have been identified as causing some consumer harm.
ASCI has recognized four dark patterns and these are the proposed areas of extension to the ASCI code on misleading ads.
Drip Pricing-It is a pattern when the total price is only revealed at the very end of the buying process.
Bait and switch- It is a pattern that occurs when a user takes an action expecting one outcome but instead is served an outcome they didn't want.
False urgency- It is a dark pattern that refers to misleading information on quantities of a particular product.
Disguised advertising- It is a pattern when an advertisement mimics editorial content.

4. Some examples of companies use Dark Patterns

  • Social media companies and Big Tech Firms such as Apple, Amazon, Skype, Facebook, LinkedIn, Microsoft, and Google use dark or deceptive patterns to downgrade the user experience to their advantage.
  • Amazon came under fire in the EU for its confusing, multi-step canceling process for Amazon Prime Subscriptions. After communication with consumer regulators, Amazon this year made its cancellation process easier for online customers in European countries.
  • In social media, LinkedIn users often receive unsolicited, sponsored messages from influencers. Disabling this option is a difficult process with multiple steps that require users to be familiar with the platform controls.
  • As Meta-owned Instagram pivots to Video-based content to compete against TikTok, users have complained that they are being shown suggested posts they did not wish to see and that they were unable to permanently set preferences.
  • Another dark pattern on the application is sponsored video ads getting scattered between reels and storied users originally opted to view, tricking them for several seconds before they can see the small "sponsored" label.
  • Google-owned YouTube nags users to sign up for YouTube Premium with pop-ups, obscuring the final seconds of a video with thumbnails of other videos- a way of disrupting what should have been an otherwise smooth user experience.

5. Disadvantages of Dark Patterns

  • Dark patterns endanger the experience of Internet users and make them more vulnerable to financial and data exploitation by Big Tech firms.
  • Dark patterns confuse users, introduce online obstacles, make simple tasks time-consuming, have users sign up for unwanted services/products and force them to pay more money or share more personal information than they intended.
  • These include "baseless" countdowns for online deals, conditions in fine print that add on to costs, making cancellation buttons hard to see or click, making ads appear as news reports or celebrity endorsements, auto-playing videos, focusing users to create accounts to finish a transaction, silently charging credit cards after free trails end, and using dull colors to hide information that users should know about.
  • The FTC report has warned that as Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) platforms and devices grow in usage, dark patterns will likely follow users to these new channels as well.
  • Internet users who can identify and recognize dark patterns in their daily lives can choose more user-friendly platforms that will respect their right to choose and privacy.

 

For prelims: Dark patterns, Cyber security, IT Act.
For Mains:1. What are Dark Patterns? How do companies use Dark patterns and illustrate them with some examples? (250 Words)
 
Source: The Hindu
 
 

MALARIA

 
 
1. Context
 
They have found that immune cells called TR1 cells play a dominant role in mounting an immune response to malaria. The implications of the study, published in the journal Science Immunology on April 25, are far-reaching, potentially opening new pathways to conquer not only malaria but many other ‘difficult’ infections for which we currently lack effective vaccines
 
2. What is malaria?
 
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. There are five species of Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria in humans, with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax being the most prevalent
Malaria is primarily transmitted through the bites of Anopheles mosquitoes, which are most active during dawn and dusk. The parasites enter the human bloodstream during the mosquito bite, travel to the liver, and mature. Once matured, they re-enter the bloodstream and infect red blood cells, leading to the symptoms of malaria

Symptoms of malaria typically appear 10-15 days after the infective mosquito bite and include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Muscle pain and fatigue
  • Sweating
  • Anemia (due to the destruction of red blood cells)
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver damage)

In severe cases, malaria can cause complications such as:

  • Cerebral malaria (affecting the brain)
  • Severe anemia
  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
  • Organ failure
 
3. What are the major types of malaria?
 
Type of Malaria Prevalence Severity Characteristics
Plasmodium falciparum Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia Most severe, causes majority of malaria-related deaths Severe anemia, cerebral malaria, multi-organ failure, irregular fever patterns
Plasmodium vivax Asia, Latin America, parts of Africa Less severe than P. falciparum but causes significant illness Relapsing malaria due to dormant liver stages (hypnozoites), tertian fever patterns (every 48 hours)
Plasmodium ovale West Africa, other parts of Africa, western Pacific islands, Southeast Asia Less severe than P. falciparum, similar to P. vivax Causes relapses due to hypnozoites, tertian fever patterns (every 48 hours)
Plasmodium malariae Worldwide, less common than P. falciparum and P. vivax Milder form of malaria, chronic infections can persist for years Quartan fever pattern (every 72 hours), chronic infections can lead to nephrotic syndrome (a serious kidney condition)
Plasmodium knowlesi Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia Can cause severe, rapidly progressing infections similar to P. falciparum Originally a parasite of macaques, can be transmitted to humans, daily fever patterns (every 24 hours)
 
 
4. Vaccination for Malaria

Vaccination for malaria has been a significant focus of research and development due to the global impact of the disease. Here is an overview of the current status and progress in malaria vaccines:

RTS,S/AS01 (Mosquirix)

  • Developer: GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in partnership with the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative and supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
  • Target Parasite: Plasmodium falciparum.
  • Mechanism: The RTS,S/AS01 vaccine targets the circumsporozoite protein (CSP) of the malaria parasite, which is crucial for the parasite's ability to infect liver cells.
  • Efficacy: Provides partial protection, with efficacy varying by age and number of doses. In clinical trials, it reduced malaria cases by about 30-50% in young children.
  • Implementation: Approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2021. Pilot programs have been launched in several African countries, including Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi, to assess real-world effectiveness and feasibility.

R21/Matrix-M

  • Developer: University of Oxford in collaboration with the Serum Institute of India and Novavax.
  • Target Parasite: Plasmodium falciparum.
  • Mechanism: Similar to RTS,S, this vaccine also targets the CSP of the malaria parasite but includes a different adjuvant (Matrix-M) to enhance immune response.
  • Efficacy: Preliminary studies have shown higher efficacy rates compared to RTS,S, with up to 77% efficacy in initial trials.
  • Status: Undergoing further clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety before broader implementation.

Other Candidates

  • SPf66: An earlier vaccine candidate developed in Colombia, showed variable efficacy in trials and is no longer pursued.
  • PfSPZ Vaccine: Developed by Sanaria Inc., it uses live, attenuated sporozoites to induce immunity. It has shown promise in early-phase trials but requires more extensive testing.

Challenges and Future Directions

  • Efficacy: While current vaccines like RTS,S and R21 show partial efficacy, there is a need for vaccines with higher and more durable protection.
  • Multiple Strains: Plasmodium falciparum's genetic diversity poses a challenge for creating a universally effective vaccine.
  • Combination Approaches: Research is ongoing into combining vaccines with other malaria control measures such as bed nets, antimalarial drugs, and vector control strategies.
  • Long-term Immunity: Efforts are focused on developing vaccines that provide long-lasting immunity, potentially reducing the need for frequent booster doses.
 
5. What is adjuvant technology?
 

Adjuvant technology refers to the use of substances in vaccines that enhance the body's immune response to the provided antigen. These substances, called adjuvants, are crucial for improving the efficacy of vaccines, especially those that rely on weaker antigens or aim to induce a stronger and longer-lasting immunity. Here's a detailed overview of adjuvant technology:

Purpose of Adjuvants

  • Enhance Immune Response: Adjuvants help to boost the magnitude and duration of the immune response to an antigen.
  • Dose Sparing: By enhancing the immune response, adjuvants can reduce the amount of antigen needed in each vaccine dose.
  • Broadening Immunity: They can help generate a more comprehensive immune response, including both humoral (antibody-mediated) and cellular immunity.
  • Improving Efficacy in Diverse Populations: Adjuvants can enhance vaccine efficacy in populations with weaker immune responses, such as the elderly or immunocompromised individuals.

Types of Adjuvants

Several types of adjuvants are used in vaccines, each with different mechanisms of action. Some common adjuvants include:

  • Aluminum Salts (Alum):

    • Description: One of the oldest and most widely used adjuvants.
    • Mechanism: Enhances antigen uptake by antigen-presenting cells and stimulates a strong antibody response.
    • Use: Found in vaccines for diseases like hepatitis B and diphtheria-tetanus.

  • Oil-in-Water Emulsions:

    • Examples: MF59, AS03.
    • Mechanism: Enhance the recruitment and activation of immune cells at the injection site.
    • Use: Found in influenza vaccines.

  • Saponin-Based Adjuvants:

    • Examples: QS-21.
    • Mechanism: Enhance both antibody and cell-mediated immune responses.
    • Use: Found in vaccines for malaria (RTS,S) and herpes zoster (Shingrix).

  • Toll-like Receptor (TLR) Agonists:

    • Examples: CpG 1018, MPL (Monophosphoryl lipid A).
    • Mechanism: Mimic microbial components to activate innate immune responses.
    • Use: Found in hepatitis B vaccines (Heplisav-B) and HPV vaccines (Cervarix).

  • Liposomes:

    • Description: Spherical vesicles that can encapsulate antigens and adjuvants.
    • Mechanism: Enhance antigen delivery and stimulate strong immune responses.
    • Use: Under research for various vaccines.

Role in Malaria Vaccines

In malaria vaccines, adjuvants are essential for inducing a robust immune response against the malaria parasite, which has a complex life cycle and various evasion strategies.

  • RTS,S/AS01:

    • Adjuvant: AS01, which includes MPL and QS-21.
    • Mechanism: Enhances both antibody and cell-mediated responses, crucial for targeting the liver stage of Plasmodium falciparum.

  • R21/Matrix-M:

    • Adjuvant: Matrix-M, a saponin-based adjuvant.
    • Mechanism: Stimulates strong immune responses, potentially offering higher efficacy than RTS,S.
6. Way Forward

The recently released World Malaria Report shows that the number of cases and deaths due to the mosquito-borne infection in India has continued to decline.India’s downward trend was reflected in the larger WHO South East Asian region that remained on track to achieving the 2030 target of reducing cases and deaths by 90 percent, the report said.

 

For Prelims:  General Science, Current Events of National and International Importance

For Mains: GS-II, III: Social Justice and International Relations; Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology, Developments and their Applications and Effects in Everyday Life
 
Previous Year Questions
1.Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine? (UPSC CSE 2010)

(a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium
(b) Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection
(c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria
(d) Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host

Answer (b)

The answer is (b) Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection.

Here's why the other options are incorrect:

(a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium - While this is true, it doesn't directly explain the difficulty in developing a vaccine. A vaccine can target multiple strains as needed.

(c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria - This is not true. We have vaccines for many viral diseases as well.

(d) Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host - This is a fact about the parasite's life cycle, but it doesn't impact vaccine development.
 
Source: Indianexpress
 

MEASLES AND RUBELLA

 
 
1.Context
Measles used to be an extremely common disease. Just 60 years ago, over 90% of children would get infected by it, and of those who developed symptoms, around a quarter would be hospitalised
 
2.Measles and Rubella
 
2.1.Measles
The measles virus is one of the world’s most contagious human viruses that kills more than 1,00,000 children every year globally, and rubella is a leading vaccine-preventable cause of birth defects, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)
Measles is caused by a single-stranded, enveloped RNA virus with 1 serotype
It is classified as a member of the genus Morbillivirus in the Paramyxoviridae family.
Humans are the only natural hosts of measles virus.
Over the past two decades, the measles vaccine is estimated to have averted more than 30 million deaths globally, as per the WHO’s statistics.
2.2.Rubella
 
Rubella is a contagious disease caused by a virus
Rubella can cause a miscarriage or serious birth defects in a developing baby if a woman is infected while she is pregnant
A rubella infection is mild for most people, but can cause death or birth defects in an unborn baby
The rubella vaccine is available in combined vaccines that also contain vaccines against other serious and potentially fatal diseases
 
3.Global Scenario of Measles and Rubella
 
  • The measles virus is one of the world’s most contagious human viruses that kills more than 1,00,000 children every year globally, and rubella is a leading vaccine-preventable cause of birth defects, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)
  • During 2010–2013, India conducted a phased measles catch-up immunisation for children aged 9 months–10 years in 14 States, vaccinating approximately 119 million children
  • Mission Indradhanush was launched in 2014 to ramp up vaccinating the unvaccinated populationDuring 2017–2021, India adopted a national strategic plan for measles and rubella elimination, and introduced rubella-containing vaccine (RCV) into the routine immunisation programme
  • As of December 2021, five countries have been verified and have sustained measles elimination - Bhutan, DPR Korea, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste. In addition, Maldives and Sri Lanka have sustained their rubella elimination status in 2022
4. Vaccination 
 
The MMR vaccine is a vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella, abbreviated as MMR
The first dose is generally given to children around 9 months to 15 months of age, with a second dose at 15 months to 6 years of age, with at least four weeks between the doses

MMR vaccine can prevent measles, mumps, and rubella. 

  • MEASLES (M) causes fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, commonly followed by a rash that covers the whole body. It can lead to seizures (often associated with fever), ear infections, diarrhea, and pneumonia. Rarely, measles can cause brain damage or death.
  • MUMPS (M) causes fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and swollen and tender salivary glands under the ears. It can lead to deafness, swelling of the brain and/or spinal cord covering, painful swelling of the testicles or ovaries, and, very rarely, death.
  • RUBELLA (R) causes fever, sore throat, rash, headache, and eye irritation. It can cause arthritis in up to half of teenage and adult women. If a person gets rubella while they are pregnant, they could have a miscarriage or the baby could be born with serious birth defects.
 
Previous Year Questions:

1.Consider the following statements:

  1. Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes.
  2. Common cold is sometimes caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.

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 (B)

2.‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to (2016)

A. immunization of children and pregnant women
B. construction of smart cities across the country
C. India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
D. New Educational Policy

Answer (A)
 
Source:Cdc.gov
 
 

DEPUTY SPEAKER

 

1. Context

The position of the Deputy Speaker has been lying vacant for the last six years raising questions on constitutional adherence and democratic resilience. The position goes beyond ceremonial significance and is indispensable to parliamentary democracy.

2. What does the Constitution say about the Deputy Speaker?

  • Article 93 of the Constitution provides for the election of both the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker.
  • The constitutional office of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha is more symbolic of parliamentary democracy than some real authority.
  • There is no need to resign from their original party though as a Deputy Speaker, they have to remain impartial.

2.1 Roles and functions:

They act as the presiding officer in case of leave or absence caused by death or illness of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.

2.2 Election:

Usually, the Deputy Speaker is elected in the first meeting of the Lok Sabha after the General elections from amongst the members of the Lok Sabha. It is by convention that position of Deputy Speaker is offered to opposition party in India.

2.3 Tenure and removal:

They hold office until either they cease to be a member of the Lok Sabha or they resign.
They can be removed from office by a resolution passed in the Lok Sabha by an effective majority of its members.

3. How soon must the Deputy Speaker be elected?

  • “As soon as may be”, say Articles 93 and 178. But they do not lay down a specific time frame.
  • In general, the practice in both Lok Sabha and the state Assemblies has been to elect the Speaker during the (mostly short) first session of the new House -usually on the third day after the oath-taking and affirmations over the first two days.
  • The election of the Deputy Speaker usually takes place in the second session and is generally not delayed further in the absence of genuine and unavoidable constraints.
  • Rule 8 of The Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha says the election of Deputy Speaker “shall be held on such date as the Speaker may fix”.
  • The Deputy Speaker is elected once a motion proposing his name is carried in the House.
    Once elected, the Deputy Speaker usually continues in office for the entire duration of the House.
  • Under Article 94 (Article 179 for state legislatures), the Speaker or Deputy Speaker “shall vacate his office if he ceases to be a member of the House”.
  • They may also resign to each other, or “may be removed from office by a resolution of the House of the People passed by a majority of all the then members of the House”. 

4. Do the powers of the Speaker extend to the Deputy Speaker as well?

  • Article 95(1) says: “While the office of Speaker is vacant, the duties of the office shall be performed by the Deputy Speaker”.
  • In general, the Deputy Speaker has the same powers as the Speaker when presiding over a sitting of the House.
  • All references to the Speaker in the Rules are deemed to be references to the Deputy Speaker when he presides.
  • It has been repeatedly held that no appeal lies to the Speaker against a ruling given by the Deputy Speaker or any person presiding over the House in the absence of the Speaker. 

5. Position of the Union government on the current vacancy in the post of Deputy Speaker

  • The Treasury benches have maintained there is no “immediate requirement” for a Deputy Speaker as “bills are being passed and discussions are being held” as normal in the House.
  • A Minister argued that “there is a panel of nine members senior, experienced, and selected from different parties who can act as chairpersons to assist the Speaker to run the House”.
  • This panel of nine has Rama Devi, Kirit P Solanki, and Rajendra Agrawal of the BJP; Kodikunnil Suresh of the Congress; A Raja of the DMK; P V Midhun Reddy (YSRCP); Bhartruhari Mahtab (BJD); N K Premachandran (RSP); and Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar (TMC).
  • Courts usually don’t intervene in the procedural conduct of Parliament. Article 122(1) says: “The validity of any proceedings in Parliament shall not be called in question on the ground of any alleged irregularity of procedure.” 
  • However, experts said that the courts do have jurisdiction to at least inquire into why there has been no election to the post of Deputy Speaker since the Constitution does envisage an election “as soon as may be”. 

For Prelims & Mains

For Prelims: Article 93, Deputy Speaker, Article 179, Article 95(1), Chief Justice of India, Speaker of Lok sabha.
For Mains:1. Discuss the constitutional provisions,powers and functions of the Deputy speaker of Lok sabha? (250 words)
 
Source: The Indian Express
 
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