UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 14 March 2024

InstaLinks : help you think beyond the issue but relevant to the issue from UPSC prelims and Mains exam point of view. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions ina your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background. This helps you study a topic holistically and add new dimensions to every current event to help you think analytically

InstaLinks : help you think beyond the issue but relevant to the issue from UPSC prelims and Mains exam point of view. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions ina your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background. This helps you study a topic holistically and add new dimensions to every current event to help you think analytically

Table of Contents:

GS Paper 2:

• Sub-classification within SCs and STs

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

• Astronomical Grand Cycles

• NFECS and NECCE launched

• INFAAR 2019-22 Report

• National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAP-SE)

• RPTUAS

• UCPMP 2024

• Calling Name Presentation (CNAP)

• Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Report

Sub-classification within SCs and STs

#### GS Paper 2

Syllabus: Polity: Affirmative Action

Source: TH

Context: The forthcoming judgment in the State of Punjab vs Davinder Singh case by a seven-judge Bench of the Supreme Court of India holds significant implications for affirmative action and reservations under the Constitution.

At the heart of the matter is the question of whether State governments can sub-classify within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) for public employment recruitment.

What is Sub-categorization within castes?

It involves creating sub-groups within Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) for reservation and affirmative action purposes.

Aim: This process aims to address intra-category inequalities and ensure a fairer distribution of benefits and opportunities among marginalized communities.

Sub-classification will affect communities nationwide, such as Balmikis and Mazhabi Sikhs in Punjab, Madiga in Andhra Pradesh, Paswans in Bihar, Jatavs in UP, and Arundhatiyars in Tamil Nadu.

Background of the present case:

In the Past attempts at sub-categorization, States like Punjab, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu have faced legal challenges, reaching the Supreme Court. The Court, in the 2004 E.V. Chinnaiah vs State Of Andhra Pradesh case, emphasized that only Parliament has the authority to create and notify SC and ST lists. It was also cited that, B.R. Ambedkar, in his speech, had cautioned against allowing State governments to amend the list due to potential political motivations was highlighted.

However, in the 2020 State of Punjab and Others vs Davinder Singh and Others case, a five-judge Bench ruled that states could determine the extent of benefits within the existing lists without altering them significantly. This ruling contradicts the 2004 decision and has led to the 2020 judgment being referred to a larger Bench for further clarification.

Competence of States for Creating Sub-Classification

States have the authority to provide reservation benefits to SCs and STs under Articles 15(4) and 16(4), and Articles 341(1) and 342(1).

• Article 15(4) empowers states to create special arrangements for socially and educationally backward classes like SCs and STs.

• Article 16(4) allows States to make provisions for reservation in promotion if SCs and STs are underrepresented in state services.

• Articles 341(1) and 342(1) permit the President, with consultation, to specify SCs and STs, including parts of these groups.

However, the Chinnaiah judgement (2004) invalidated the Andhra Pradesh Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act, 2000, for contravening Article 341. The Court emphasized that only Parliament has the authority to modify the SC and ST lists specified under Article 341.

Sub-categorize Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are needed:

• Addressing Intra-Group Inequalities: E.g., In Telangana, the Madiga Reservation Porata Samiti (MRPS) is advocating for the internal reclassification of Scheduled Caste reservations. Despite constituting around 50% of the SC population in the state, Madigas feel their representation is being overshadowed by the dominance of another SC community, the Malas.

• Equitable Distribution of Benefits: It prevents the concentration of benefits in the hands of a few dominant groups and promotes broader social inclusion.

• Constitutional Mandate: Articles 15(4), 16(4), 341(1), and 342(1) of the Constitution empower states to create special arrangements and provisions for the welfare of socially and educationally backward classes, including SCs and STs

• Empowerment of State Governments: Sub-categorization grants autonomy to state governments to tailor reservation policies according to the specific socio-economic conditions and needs of different sub-groups within SCs and STs, promoting localized and targeted affirmative action measures.

• Enhancing Social Mobility: Sub-categorization enables targeted measures to empower disadvantaged groups, fostering social mobility through education, employment, and political representation.

Challenges with Sub-Categorization of Caste:

• Inequality within Scheduled Castes: Sub-categorization may not effectively address disparities, as the most backward communities may still remain marginalized despite a separate quota.

• Federalism Issue: There’s a constitutional dilemma regarding the authority of states to sub-categorize SCs and STs, with conflicting judgments from the Supreme Court on whether states have this power.

• Identification and Criteria: Determining criteria for sub-categorization, such as socio-economic status or educational attainment, poses challenges due to the lack of consensus.

• Data Accuracy: Obtaining accurate socio-economic data for different communities is difficult, hindering the decision-making process.

• Intra-group Disputes: Sub-categorization may lead to internal conflicts and tensions among SC communities, potentially marginalizing certain groups from benefits.

• Possibility of Fragmentation: There’s a risk that sub-categorization could weaken the collective identity and strength of the community, leading to political and social fragmentation.

Suggestions for Sub-Classifying Caste Groups:

• Need for Wider Reading of Article 341: Article 341 does not prohibit sub-classification, allowing states to provide special measures within the SC list.

• Following Reasonable Classification: Reasonable classifications, such as sub-categorization for inter-se backwardness, are permissible under the Constitution.

• Judging Sub-Classification on Its Own Merits: Sub-classification should be judged based on its merits, ensuring fair treatment for different caste groups.

• Exploring Alternatives: Legal options, such as constitutional amendments, can facilitate sub-categorization, as suggested by the Attorney General of India and expert committees.

• Data Collection and Analysis: Comprehensive data collection on the socio-economic conditions of caste communities is crucial for formulating effective policies.

• Concept of Creamy-Layer: The concept of creamy layer, applied to SC and ST promotions since 2018, ensures reservation benefits reach those most in need.

• Criteria Development: Transparent criteria considering socio-economic status, education, and regional disparities are essential for sub-categorization.

• Following the Middle Path: Balancing recognition of diversity within SCs and STs with maintaining community unity is crucial for effective policies without causing fragmentation.

Committee Recommendations:

• Justice P. Ramachandra Raju Commission (1996): Recommended sub-categorization of Scheduled Castes in Andhra Pradesh

• National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC): Advocated for measures to address intra-group disparities and

• National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST): Highlighted the need to prioritize existing schemes and government benefits to reach the most backward sections of Scheduled Tribes before considering sub-categorization.

• Usha Mehra Committee (2008): Proposed the inclusion of Clause (3) in Article 341 through a constitutional amendment, empowering state legislatures to enact reclassification of the Scheduled Caste category, subject to Presidential confirmation.

• Justice G. Rohini headed the Commission for the Sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes (OBC): Report submitted in August 2023

Conclusion:

Sub-categorizing Scheduled Castes is crucial for addressing internal disparities and ensuring targeted social justice. However, it requires careful consideration of constitutional provisions, data accuracy, and potential challenges to uplift marginalized communities effectively

Insta Links

• Sub-categorization of Other Backward Classes

Mains Links

What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)? (UPSC 2017)

Prelims Links:

Consider the following organizations/bodies in India: (UPSC 2023)

• The National Commission for Backward Classes

• The National Human Rights Commission

• The National Law Commission

• The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission

How many of the above constitutional bodies?

(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four

Ans: A

With reference to the ‘Changpa’ community of India, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2014)

• They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand.

• They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool.

• They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: B

Astronomical Grand Cycles

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: DTE

Context: The Earth experiences climate fluctuations in a 2.4-million-year cycle, discovered through geological sedimentary evidence in the deep ocean current. This cycle, known as “astronomical grand cycles,” is linked to the orbits of Earth and Mars around the Sun.

Explanation:

The concept of the Astronomical Grand Cycle (AGC) suggests that the gravitational interaction between Earth and Mars cyclically influences deep ocean currents, leading to recurring patterns every 2.4 million years. This cycle is attributed to the interference of gravity fields between the two planets, causing a resonance that affects Earth’s orbit around the Sun.

The mechanism proposed for AGC highlights the gravitational interplay between Earth and Mars as the primary driver. Unlike the Milankovitch cycles, which are associated with Earth’s interactions with Jupiter and Saturn and coincide with the glacial and interglacial periods on Earth, the AGC specifically pertains to the interaction between Earth and Mars and its impact on deep ocean currents.

NFECS and NECCE launched

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source PIB

Context: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched a National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) for children aged three to six years, along with a National Framework for Early Childhood Stimulation (NFECS) for children from birth to three years.

About NFECS and NECCE:

Aspect | NFECS (National Framework for Early Childhood Stimulation) | NECCE (National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education)

Target Age Group | Children from birth to three years | Children from three to six years

Objective | Empower caregivers and Anganwadi Workers for holistic early stimulation | Enhance the quality of early childhood care and education at Anganwadi Centres

It is aligned with the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage 2022 (NCF-FS)

Developmental Domains Covered | Physical, cognitive, language, socio-emotional, cultural/aesthetic, positive habits | Physical/motor, cognitive, language and literacy, socio-emotional, cultural/aesthetic, positive habits

Approach | Responsive caregiving, opportunities for early learning | Competency-based lesson plans, joyful learning, preparation for primary school

Activities | 36 month-wise-age-based activities | Weekly calendar with 36 weeks of active learning, 8 weeks of reinforcement, and 4 weeks of initiation

Special Focus | Serve and return: It refers to the interaction between caregivers and children, where the caregiver responds to the child’s actions or cues, creating a supportive and nurturing environment. | Screening, inclusion, and referrals for Divyang children, community engagement

Caregiver’s three acts: Love, Talk and Play

Positive guidance: It involves providing gentle and supportive direction to encourage positive behaviour and development in children.

Prepared by | Both documents have been prepared by the National Institute for Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) and will be integrated into the Poshan Tracker. NIPCCD will lead the training of Anganwadi functionaries on the new Curriculum and Framework

These initiatives are aligned with the National Education Policy 2020

INFAAR 2019-22 Report

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: DTE

Context: The FAO and ICAR released the first national report on AMR surveillance (INFAAR 2019-22 Report) in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.

What is INFAAR?

ICAR, supported by FAO, initiated INFAAR (Indian Network for Fishery and Animal Antimicrobial Resistance) in 2017 to monitor AMR in the aquaculture and veterinary sectors.

What is AMR?

AMR stands for Antimicrobial Resistance. It occurs when microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc., evolve and become resistant to antimicrobial medicines, rendering them ineffective in treating infections. For instance, oxytocin misuse in the dairy industry contributes to this issue.

Key findings of the INFAAR Report:

• Staphylococcus displayed notably high resistance (60% or higher) to penicillin in the fisheries sector.

• Higher resistance was noted in the livestock sector, particularly among E coli and Staphylococci.

• Antibiotic usage might be elevated among organized and contractual farming practices.

The (INFAAR) collected data from 2019-2022, covering 3 aquaculture systems and major food-producing animals.

Other initiatives:

• AMR Surveillance Network

• National One Health Program for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses

• Integrated One Health Surveillance Network for Antimicrobial Resistance

• GLASS IT Platform is a web-based platform for global data sharing on AMR

• Operation Amrith (AMRITH – Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health)

National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAP-SE)

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB

Context: The Union Health Ministry launched the National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAP-SE), aiming to halve snakebite deaths by 2030 through a ‘One Health’ Approach.

The plan includes:

• Launching of IEC materials: Booklet, Posters, and Video for Snakebite Awareness.

• Introduction of Snakebite Helpline in five pilot States.

• Launch of National Rabies Control Programme Website.

• Onboarding National One Health Programme for Zoonoses on Integrated Health Initiative Platform.

Snakebite envenoming is a significant health issue in India, causing around 50,000 deaths annually. The NAP-SE aims to reduce mortality and complications due to snakebites through a comprehensive approach involving healthcare, wildlife, tribal, and animal health components.

Key strategic actions include:

• Strengthening anti-venom availability at all health facilities

• Surveillance, emergency care, and inter-sectoral coordination

• States to develop their action plans tailored to their needs, with designated nodal officers for coordination and monitoring

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: PIB

Context: The Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has announced the Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (RPTUAS).

What is RPTUAS?

Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme aims to enhance the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products manufactured in India. The scheme offers support to pharmaceutical manufacturing units for technology and quality upgradation.

PTUAS is a component of the Strengthening of Pharmaceutical Industry (SPI) Scheme. SPI Scheme aimed to strengthen the existing infrastructure facilities to make India a global leader in the Pharma Sector. RPTUAS is the successor of PTUAS under SPI.

Key features:

• Broadened Eligibility: Previously, the scheme only included MSME Pharma units, now the incentive is available to any pharmaceutical manufacturing units based on turnover criteria: Turnover less than Rs 50 crore: Incentive of 20% of investment under eligible activities. Turnover from Rs 50 crore to less than Rs 250 crore: Incentive of 15% of investment under eligible activities. Turnover from Rs 250 crore to less than Rs 500 crore: Incentive of 10% of investment under eligible activities.

• Turnover less than Rs 50 crore: Incentive of 20% of investment under eligible activities.

• Turnover from Rs 50 crore to less than Rs 250 crore: Incentive of 15% of investment under eligible activities.

• Turnover from Rs 250 crore to less than Rs 500 crore: Incentive of 10% of investment under eligible activities.

• Flexible Financing: It offers flexible financing options, including subsidies on a reimbursement basis, to diversify financing options for participating units.

• Support for Compliance: Supports technological upgrades aligned with revised Schedule-M and WHO-GMP standards, covering various improvements such as HVAC systems, testing laboratories, and clean room facilities. Schedule-M of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rule, 1945 provides good manufacturing practices (GMP) for pharmaceutical products

• Schedule-M of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rule, 1945 provides good manufacturing practices (GMP) for pharmaceutical products

• Dynamic Incentive Structure: Provides incentives based on the average turnover for the last three years, with a maximum incentive of Rs one crore per unit.

• Integration with State Schemes: Allows integration with state government schemes to provide additional assistance, fostering collaboration between central and state initiatives.

• Enhanced Verification: Introduces a robust verification mechanism through a Project Management Agency to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficient resource allocation.

Incidents of issues with Indian pharma products:

• Quality Control Concerns: E.g., Four types of medicine, made in India, caused the deaths of at least 70 children in Gambia in 2022

• Regulatory Violations: E.g., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries received a warning letter from the FDA for failing to comply with GMP regulations at its Halol plant.

• Drug Recalls: E.g., Dr Reddy’s Laboratories recalled over 3,342 bottles of hypertension drugs in the US due to the presence of impurities.

• Counterfeit Drugs: As per a report, fake drugs constituted over $4 billion of the total $14–17 billion of the Indian domestic drug market

• Export Bans: E.g., EU banned the import of over 700 generic drugs manufactured in India due to concerns about data integrity and manipulation.

UCPMP 2024

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: The Department of Pharmaceuticals issued the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024, setting guidelines for interactions between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals.

Aim: It aims to regulate unethical practices in the pharmaceutical industry.

Key Provisions of UCPMP 2024:

Provisions | Description

1.Prohibits gifts | Companies cannot offer gifts benefiting healthcare professionals or their family members personally.
2.Restriction on Traveling facilities | Travel and vacation benefits are limited unless related to Continuing Medical Education (CME) events
3.Financial limitations | Financial benefits or perks are restricted for individuals qualified to prescribe or supply drugs.
4.Ban on CME workshops abroad | Prohibits conducting CME workshops in foreign countries.
5.Drugs promotion directive | Drug promotion must adhere to marketing approval terms.

Claims of effectiveness are backed by current evidence.

Terms like ‘safe‘ must not be used without qualification.

Drugs can’t be labelled as ‘new‘ if available for over a year.

1.Rules violation & adherence directive | Violations handled by Ethics Committees for Pharma Marketing Practices (ECPMP).

CEOs of drug companies are responsible for compliance.

Annual self-declarations of adherence are required.

These guidelines, first issued by the Central Government in December 2014, provide recommendations to the pharmaceutical industry for drug and medical device promotion. They are voluntary and not legally binding on companies. In 2022, the Central Board for Direct Taxes (CBDT) accused Dolo-650 tablet makers of spending Rs 1,000 crore on distributing freebies to doctors.

Ethical issues: Pharmaceutical companies providing freebies to doctors raise ethical concerns as they can influence prescription behaviour, potentially compromising patient care. This practice may lead to biased prescribing, prioritizing drugs based on benefits to the prescriber rather than patient needs, and can erode trust in the medical profession.

Calling Name Presentation (CNAP)

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: IE

Context: CNAP, or Calling Name Presentation, is a proposed Caller ID service by TRAI to reduce incessant spam and Unsolicited Commercial Communication (UCC).

Aim: It aims to show the caller’s name when receiving a call, similar to services like Truecaller. Unlike crowd-sourced services, CNAP will rely on verified information from Customer Application Forms (CAFs) filled by subscribers.

TRAI recommends telecom providers maintain a database linking phone numbers with customer names from CAFs. This initiative has raised privacy concerns among industry players, with suggestions for opt-in mechanisms and limitations to protect user privacy. Unlike Truecaller, CNAP’s database will be based on verified information, potentially providing more accurate caller identification.

Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Report

#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Source: TH

Context: India emerged as the world’s top arms importer for the period 2019-23, with a 4.7% increase compared to 2014-18, as per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)

Key findings:

For Exports:

• The USA is the largest arms exporter > France, for the first time, was the second biggest arms exporter> Russia

• The U.S. increased its arms exports by 17%, while Russia’s exports fell by over half.

For Import:

• India was the world’s top arms importer: Russia remained India’s main arms supplier (accounting for 36% of its arms imports), However, its share decreased to less than 50% for the first time in 6 decades.

• Ukraine emerged as the largest European arms importer in 2019–23.

• Nine of the top 10 arms importers were in Asia and the Middle East.

About SIPRI:

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) (founded in 1966; HQ: Solna (Sweden)), is an Independent international institute and global think tank, that provides data, analysis, and recommendations on armed conflict, military spending, arms trade, disarmament, and arms control. Its research, based on open sources, targets decision-makers, researchers, media, and the public, aiming to foster an understanding of conditions for peaceful conflict resolution and sustainable peace.