UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 January 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 January 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in 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.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 3 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 January (2025)
• Issue of Poverty Underestimation
Issue of Poverty Underestimation
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• NHM achievements 2021-24
NHM achievements 2021-24
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Deep Ocean Mission
Deep Ocean Mission
• Differential Pricing
Differential Pricing
• Rhodamine B
Rhodamine B
• M23 Armed Group
M23 Armed Group
• Ad hoc Judges
Ad hoc Judges
• Iron Age
Iron Age
• Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
Mapping:
• Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 January 2025
#### GS Paper 3 :
Issue of Poverty Underestimation
Syllabus: Poverty
Source: TH
Context: The 2023-24 Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) revealed a decline in urban and rural poverty, amid ongoing debates on data comparability, availability, and defining an adequate consumption basket for the poverty line.
About Poverty Data in India:
• HCES 2023-24: Reports rural poverty reduced to 7.2% and urban poverty to 4.6% compared to 25.7% and 13.7%, respectively, in 2011-12.
• Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): NITI Aayog (2022-23): Multidimensional poverty dropped to 11.28% from 29.17% in 2013-14. Global MPI (2019-21): India halved its MPI value, with 135.5 million people escaping poverty.
• NITI Aayog (2022-23): Multidimensional poverty dropped to 11.28% from 29.17% in 2013-14.
• Global MPI (2019-21): India halved its MPI value, with 135.5 million people escaping poverty.
• World Bank Estimate: Using $2.15/day as a poverty line, extreme poverty was 11.9% in India in 2019.
• Other Reports: The Rangarajan Committee (2014) pegged 2011-12 poverty at 29.5%, higher than the Tendulkar Committee’s 21.9%.
Is Poverty Underestimated in India?
Yes, Poverty is Underestimated
• Dated Poverty Lines: The poverty line by Tendulkar (₹33/day urban, ₹27/day rural) and Rangarajan (₹47/day urban, ₹30/day rural) fails to reflect rising living costs.
E.g. A nutritious diet is unaffordable for 74% of Indians (World Bank).
• Multidimensional Deprivations: While multidimensional indices highlight improved access to electricity and sanitation, income-based poverty persists.
E.g. Informal sector workers lack financial security despite basic amenities.
• Data Gaps: Absence of Census 2021 limits accurate rural-urban poverty differentiation.
E.g. Rural areas transitioning into peri-urban zones distort poverty statistics.
• Inconsistent Methodologies: Changing recall periods in surveys inflate consumption expenditure, lowering poverty estimates artificially.
E.g. Shifts to MMRP (modified mixed reference period) reduce poverty estimates by boosting expenditure figures.
• Exclusion Errors in Welfare Schemes: Despite flagship programs, implementation gaps exclude the most vulnerable.
E.g. Leakages in MGNREGA and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
No, Poverty is Not Underestimated:
• Substantial Poverty Reduction: Reports like NITI Aayog’s MPI and HCES showcase consistent poverty decline over decades.
E.g. Over 24.82 crore people escaped multidimensional poverty between 2013-14 and 2022-23.
• Improved Welfare Programs: Initiatives like PMJDY, SBM, and PMUY have improved living standards.
E.g. Universal access to bank accounts (PMJDY) fosters financial inclusion.
• Decline in Calorie-Based Poverty: Diversified rural consumption indicates improved living conditions beyond subsistence.
E.g. Rural spending on services increased, reflecting better quality of life.
• Global Comparisons Validate Progress: India’s MPI and poverty reduction rates align with UN and World Bank assessments.
E.g. UNDP’s MPI highlights a halving of poverty since 2015-16.
• Economic Growth Contribution: High GDP growth and reduced inflation support poverty alleviation.
E.g. Flagship programs like Poshan Abhiyan reduced malnutrition in vulnerable populations.
Way Ahead:
• Updated Poverty Metrics: Revisit poverty lines to incorporate rising living costs and regional disparities.
• Strengthen Data Collection: Conduct Census 2021 and ensure reliable consumption surveys.
• Focus on Income Poverty: Incorporate income vulnerability alongside multidimensional metrics.
• Improve Welfare Delivery: Enhance targeting and transparency in welfare programs.
• Promote Livelihoods: Foster rural employment through skill development and MSME support.
Conclusion:
India has made remarkable strides in poverty reduction, but the debate on underestimation highlights the need for updated methodologies and robust data systems. By addressing systemic gaps and prioritizing inclusive growth, India can ensure sustainable poverty eradication and equitable development.
Insta Links:
• Welfare-scheme-debate
• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poorer section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 January 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
NHM achievements 2021-24
Context: The Cabinet reviewed achievements under the National Health Mission (2021-24), highlighting significant progress in strengthening India’s public health outcomes.
Key Achievements under NHM (2021-2024):
Achievement Area | Key Milestones
COVID-19 Vaccination | Over 220 crore vaccine doses administered nationwide.
Human Resources | Engaged 12.13 lakh additional healthcare workers, including 3.57 lakh CHOs.
Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) | Declined by 83% since 1990, from 130 (2014-16) to 97 per lakh live births (2018-20).
Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) | Reduced by 75% since 1990, from 45 (2014) to 32 per 1,000 live births (2020).
TB Elimination | Incidence reduced from 237/1,00,000 in 2015 to 195/1,00,000 in 2023.
Measles-Rubella Vaccination | Achieved 97.98% coverage, vaccinating over 34.77 crore children.
Sickle Cell Anemia | Screened 2.61 crore individuals under the National Sickle Cell Anemia Mission.
Ayushman Arogya Mandirs | Operationalized 1.72 lakh centers, with 1.34 lakh providing 12 essential services.
Dialysis Programme | Benefited 4.53 lakh patients with over 62.35 lakh hemodialysis sessions.
Kala Azar Elimination | Achieved target of <1 case/10,000 population in all endemic blocks.
Digital Health | Launched the U-WIN Platform for real-time vaccination tracking in 65 districts.
Public Health Infrastructure | Certified 7,998 health facilities under National Quality Assurance Standards.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• General Studies Paper II: Governance and Social Justice
• NHM as a case study for improving healthcare accessibility and affordability.
• Schemes for vulnerable populations (MGNREGA, PMJDY, PMJAY, etc.).
• Disease elimination initiatives like TB, malaria, and Kala Azar.
• General Studies Paper III: Economic Development and Technology
• Role of digital health initiatives (U-WIN platform) in healthcare delivery.
• Linkages between healthcare infrastructure and human resource development.
• Essay Writing Topics like “Healthcare Transformation in India” or “Achieving SDG Targets through NHM”.
• Topics like “Healthcare Transformation in India” or “Achieving SDG Targets through NHM”.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 January 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Deep Ocean Mission
Source: DD News
Context: India is gearing up to deploy its first human-operated underwater submersible as part of the Deep Ocean Mission, according to Union Minister of State for Science and Technology.
About Deep Ocean Mission (DOM):
• What it is: The Deep Ocean Mission is an ambitious program initiated by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) to explore the deep sea, develop cutting-edge marine technologies, and harness ocean resources for economic and environmental benefits.
• Launched in: DOM was launched in 2021 as one of nine key missions under the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC) framework.
• Aims: To develop advanced deep-sea exploration technologies. To identify and harness critical underwater resources like polymetallic nodules, sulphides, and rare metals. To study marine biodiversity and ecosystems for conservation and sustainable fisheries. To contribute to India’s blue economy through innovation and knowledge-building.
• To develop advanced deep-sea exploration technologies.
• To identify and harness critical underwater resources like polymetallic nodules, sulphides, and rare metals.
• To study marine biodiversity and ecosystems for conservation and sustainable fisheries.
• To contribute to India’s blue economy through innovation and knowledge-building.
• Key features: Samudrayaan and Matsya6000: India’s first crewed submersible, Matsya6000, aims to reach 6,000 meters below the ocean surface, targeting polymetallic nodules and rare resources. Technological Advancements: Includes development of underwater mining systems like Varaha, which has successfully operated at depths of 5,270 meters. Ocean Climate Change Services: Developing advisory systems for ocean climate monitoring. Marine Biodiversity Conservation: Exploring and conserving unique underwater ecosystems. Renewable Energy and Freshwater Harvesting: Leveraging Ocean resources for energy and water needs. Marine Biology Station: Establishing a state-of-the-art marine research station for advanced studies.
• Samudrayaan and Matsya6000: India’s first crewed submersible, Matsya6000, aims to reach 6,000 meters below the ocean surface, targeting polymetallic nodules and rare resources.
• Technological Advancements: Includes development of underwater mining systems like Varaha, which has successfully operated at depths of 5,270 meters.
• Ocean Climate Change Services: Developing advisory systems for ocean climate monitoring.
• Marine Biodiversity Conservation: Exploring and conserving unique underwater ecosystems.
• Renewable Energy and Freshwater Harvesting: Leveraging Ocean resources for energy and water needs.
• Marine Biology Station: Establishing a state-of-the-art marine research station for advanced studies.
Insta links:
• Matsya-6000
Differential Pricing
Source: TOI
Context: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued notices to Ola and Uber over alleged differential pricing based on the type of smartphone used by consumers.
About Differential Pricing:
• What Is Differential Pricing?
Differential Pricing is a strategy where businesses set varying prices for the same product or service based on factors like location, demand, customer demographics, or purchasing behavior. This dynamic approach allows businesses to optimize revenues while catering to different market segments.
• Types of Differential Pricing:
• Price Localization: Adapting prices to reflect local purchasing power or competition. Real-Time Pricing: Adjusting prices based on demand, competition, and availability. Subscription-Based Pricing: Offering discounts for long-term commitments. Seasonal Discounts: Reducing prices during specific periods, like holidays. Volume Discounts: Incentivizing bulk purchases with lower per-unit costs.
• Price Localization: Adapting prices to reflect local purchasing power or competition.
• Real-Time Pricing: Adjusting prices based on demand, competition, and availability.
• Subscription-Based Pricing: Offering discounts for long-term commitments.
• Seasonal Discounts: Reducing prices during specific periods, like holidays.
• Volume Discounts: Incentivizing bulk purchases with lower per-unit costs.
• Factors Leading to Differential Pricing:
• Consumer Demographics: Age, income level, and purchasing behavior influence pricing strategies. Geographic Location: Local competition and cost structures dictate regional pricing. Market Demand: High demand allows businesses to increase prices (e.g., festive seasons). Technology Integration: AI-driven dynamic pricing tailors costs to individual customers. Economic Conditions: Inflation, currency exchange rates, and tariffs impact pricing.
• Consumer Demographics: Age, income level, and purchasing behavior influence pricing strategies.
• Geographic Location: Local competition and cost structures dictate regional pricing.
• Market Demand: High demand allows businesses to increase prices (e.g., festive seasons).
• Technology Integration: AI-driven dynamic pricing tailors costs to individual customers.
• Economic Conditions: Inflation, currency exchange rates, and tariffs impact pricing.
• Why Companies Use Differential Pricing: Maximize Revenue: Tailored pricing helps capture maximum consumer willingness to pay.
• Maximize Revenue: Tailored pricing helps capture maximum consumer willingness to pay.
E.g. Airlines charging more for last-minute bookings.
• Boost Market Penetration: Lower initial prices attract customers in new markets.
E.g. Introductory offers for new product launches.
• Encourage Bulk Purchases: Volume-based pricing clears inventory faster.
E.g. Discounts on combo deals.
• Increase Profit Margins: Higher prices during peak demand maximize profitability.
E.g. Hotel rates during major events.
• Compete Locally: Adjusting prices to match local purchasing power.
E.g. Mobile apps offering region-specific pricing.
Insta links:
• Double-edged-sword-in-modern-public-spaces
Rhodamine B
Source: TH
Context: With global bans, including by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and various Indian states, Rhodamine B and its harmful effects are under intense scrutiny.
About Rhodamine B:
• What is Rhodamine B?
• Chemical Name: Rhodamine B (C₂₈H₃₁ClN₂O₃). Properties: Water-soluble synthetic dye, appearing green in powder form and turning bright fluorescent pink in water. Uses: Primarily used as a coloring agent in textiles, leather, paper, and paints. It is also utilized in scientific research for its fluorescence.
• Chemical Name: Rhodamine B (C₂₈H₃₁ClN₂O₃).
• Properties: Water-soluble synthetic dye, appearing green in powder form and turning bright fluorescent pink in water.
• Uses: Primarily used as a coloring agent in textiles, leather, paper, and paints. It is also utilized in scientific research for its fluorescence.
• Features of Rhodamine B:
• Fluorescent Properties: Highly visible under UV light, making it suitable for industrial marking and scientific research. Dyeing Efficiency: Widely used to produce vibrant red and pink shades in commercial applications. Industrial Applications: Common in non-food sectors like textiles, paints, and papers. Non-Biodegradable: Stays persistent in the environment, adding to pollution risks. Global Regulation: Categorized as toxic and banned for use in consumables worldwide.
• Fluorescent Properties: Highly visible under UV light, making it suitable for industrial marking and scientific research.
• Dyeing Efficiency: Widely used to produce vibrant red and pink shades in commercial applications.
• Industrial Applications: Common in non-food sectors like textiles, paints, and papers.
• Non-Biodegradable: Stays persistent in the environment, adding to pollution risks.
• Global Regulation: Categorized as toxic and banned for use in consumables worldwide.
• Harmful Impacts of Rhodamine B:
• Carcinogenic Properties: Linked to DNA damage, mutations, and potential tumor growth in animal studies. Toxic Effects: Prolonged exposure may harm the liver, kidneys, and bladder. Oxidative Stress: Causes cellular damage through increased oxidative activity. Environmental Hazards: Residual dyes in wastewater contaminate ecosystems. Vulnerable Groups: Children and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of adverse effects.
• Carcinogenic Properties: Linked to DNA damage, mutations, and potential tumor growth in animal studies.
• Toxic Effects: Prolonged exposure may harm the liver, kidneys, and bladder.
• Oxidative Stress: Causes cellular damage through increased oxidative activity.
• Environmental Hazards: Residual dyes in wastewater contaminate ecosystems.
• Vulnerable Groups: Children and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of adverse effects.
Insta links:
• Karnataka-bans-harmful-dyes
M23 Armed Group
Source: TH
Context: The M23 armed group has intensified its activities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), capturing key areas like Minova and threatening the provincial capital, Goma.
About M23 Armed Group:
• What is M23?
• Full Form: March 23 Movement (M23).
• Location: Operates in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, mainly in North Kivu province.
• Origin: Emerged in 2012 from a faction of the Congolese army, citing grievances over a 2009 peace agreement.
• Nature: Armed rebel group involved in territorial seizures, fueled by local ethnic tensions and international involvement.
• Support: UN reports suggest substantial backing from Rwanda, with claims of direct military involvement.
About the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC):
• Capital: Kinshasa.
• Neighbouring Countries: Angola, Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, South Sudan, Central African Republic, and Republic of Congo.
• Rivers: The Congo River, Africa’s second-longest river, traverses the country, providing vital transport and hydroelectric resources.
• Mountains: Includes the Rwenzori Mountains and the Virunga Mountain range, home to active volcanoes like Mount Nyiragongo.
• Resources: The DRC is rich in minerals, including cobalt, gold, and coltan, critical for global tech industries.
Insta links:
• Democratic-Republic-of-the-Congo
Ad hoc Judges
Source: IE
Context: The Supreme Court has proposed the temporary appointment of retired High Court judges on an ad hoc basis under Article 224A of the Constitution to address the growing backlog of criminal cases.
About Ad Hoc Judges:
• Constitutional Provision: Article 224A of the Indian Constitution allows the Chief Justice of a High Court to appoint retired High Court judges to perform judicial duties, with the prior consent of the President.
• Criteria for Appointment: Retired judges who have previously served in any High Court can be requested for temporary judicial service if they consent to the appointment.
• Who Are Ad Hoc Judges? Ad hoc judges are retired judges invited back temporarily to help clear backlogs of cases in High Courts. They enjoy the same powers and privileges as sitting judges but are not deemed regular judges.
• Ad hoc judges are retired judges invited back temporarily to help clear backlogs of cases in High Courts. They enjoy the same powers and privileges as sitting judges but are not deemed regular judges.
• Procedure for Appointment:
• The Chief Justice of a High Court identifies potential candidates and seeks their consent.
• The recommendation is sent to the President of India, routed through the Union Law Ministry.
• The Supreme Court Collegium must also endorse the recommendation.
• The final decision is made by the President based on advice from the Prime Minister.
• Term and Conditions:
• The tenure is typically 2-3 years, depending on the requirement. These judges are entitled to allowances determined by the President and enjoy all privileges of High Court judges during their term.
• The tenure is typically 2-3 years, depending on the requirement.
• These judges are entitled to allowances determined by the President and enjoy all privileges of High Court judges during their term.
Insta links:
• ad-hoc-judges
Iron Age
Source: TOI
Context: Recent dating of burial urn samples from Sivagalai in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district suggests that the Iron Age may have begun there at least 1,000 years earlier than previously estimated.
About Iron Age:
• What is the Iron Age?
The Iron Age refers to the period in history when iron became the dominant material for tools and weapons, replacing earlier materials like stone and bronze. It is marked by significant advancements in metallurgy and technology, leading to societal and economic transformations.
• Timeframe: Globally, the Iron Age began around 1200 BCE. However, recent findings in Tamil Nadu push India’s Iron Age back to 3,345 BCE, predating the globally recognized Hittite Empire’s use of iron (1380 BCE).
• Key Locations in India: Sivagalai (Tamil Nadu): Earliest evidence, dated to 3,345 BCE. Mayiladumparai (Tamil Nadu): Evidence from 2,172 BCE. Brahmagiri (Karnataka): Iron Age evidence from 2,140 BCE. Gachibowli (Telangana): Dated to 2,200 BCE.
• Sivagalai (Tamil Nadu): Earliest evidence, dated to 3,345 BCE.
• Mayiladumparai (Tamil Nadu): Evidence from 2,172 BCE.
• Brahmagiri (Karnataka): Iron Age evidence from 2,140 BCE.
• Gachibowli (Telangana): Dated to 2,200 BCE.
• Phases of the Iron Age in India: Early Iron Age (1500 BCE – 1000 BCE)
• Early Iron Age (1500 BCE – 1000 BCE)
• Introduction of iron tools in agriculture and hunting (e.g., Hallur, Karnataka). Overlaps with the late Vedic period; texts like the Atharvaveda composed. Significant sites: Atranjikhera (Uttar Pradesh) and Malhar (Chhattisgarh).
• Introduction of iron tools in agriculture and hunting (e.g., Hallur, Karnataka). Overlaps with the late Vedic period; texts like the Atharvaveda composed. Significant sites: Atranjikhera (Uttar Pradesh) and Malhar (Chhattisgarh).
• Introduction of iron tools in agriculture and hunting (e.g., Hallur, Karnataka).
• Overlaps with the late Vedic period; texts like the Atharvaveda composed.
• Significant sites: Atranjikhera (Uttar Pradesh) and Malhar (Chhattisgarh).
• Middle Iron Age (1000 BCE – 600 BCE)
• Expansion of iron technology and urbanization. Painted Grey Ware (PGW) culture emerges in the Ganga-Yamuna plains. Rise of fortified settlements like Kausambi and early states (Janapadas).
• Expansion of iron technology and urbanization. Painted Grey Ware (PGW) culture emerges in the Ganga-Yamuna plains. Rise of fortified settlements like Kausambi and early states (Janapadas).
• Expansion of iron technology and urbanization.
• Painted Grey Ware (PGW) culture emerges in the Ganga-Yamuna plains.
• Rise of fortified settlements like Kausambi and early states (Janapadas).
• Late Iron Age (600 BCE – 200 BCE)
• Formation of Mahajanapadas and rise of the Mauryan Empire. Spread of Buddhism and Jainism; Ashoka’s edicts promote ethical governance. Significant urban centres: Pataliputra (Patna) and Ujjain.
• Formation of Mahajanapadas and rise of the Mauryan Empire. Spread of Buddhism and Jainism; Ashoka’s edicts promote ethical governance. Significant urban centres: Pataliputra (Patna) and Ujjain.
• Formation of Mahajanapadas and rise of the Mauryan Empire.
• Spread of Buddhism and Jainism; Ashoka’s edicts promote ethical governance.
• Significant urban centres: Pataliputra (Patna) and Ujjain.
• Key Features of the Iron Age:
• Iron Technology: Advanced smelting techniques led to the production of durable tools and weapons. Agricultural Revolution: Iron ploughs and sickles boosted productivity, enabling surplus food production. Urbanization: Fortified cities with sophisticated infrastructure, including drainage systems and public buildings. Political Structures: Emergence of Janapadas and Mahajanapadas, followed by the Mauryan Empire’s rise. Cultural Growth: Composition of texts like the Upanishads and emergence of Buddhist and Jain art and philosophy.
• Iron Technology: Advanced smelting techniques led to the production of durable tools and weapons.
• Agricultural Revolution: Iron ploughs and sickles boosted productivity, enabling surplus food production.
• Urbanization: Fortified cities with sophisticated infrastructure, including drainage systems and public buildings.
• Political Structures: Emergence of Janapadas and Mahajanapadas, followed by the Mauryan Empire’s rise.
• Cultural Growth: Composition of texts like the Upanishads and emergence of Buddhist and Jain art and philosophy.
Insta links:
• Vedic-age
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
Source: DH
Context: The health department in Pune has reported a surge in cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune nerve disorder.
About Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS):
• What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome? GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to numbness, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, paralysis. It is not contagious and typically affects adults, although people of all ages can develop the condition.
• GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to numbness, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, paralysis. It is not contagious and typically affects adults, although people of all ages can develop the condition.
• Symptoms of GBS:
• Initial Symptoms: Weakness or tingling sensations starting in the legs, often spreading to the arms and face. Progressive Symptoms: Difficulty in walking, limb paralysis, and muscle coordination issues. Severe Cases: Paralysis of respiratory muscles, requiring ventilator support.
• Initial Symptoms: Weakness or tingling sensations starting in the legs, often spreading to the arms and face.
• Progressive Symptoms: Difficulty in walking, limb paralysis, and muscle coordination issues.
• Severe Cases: Paralysis of respiratory muscles, requiring ventilator support.
• Causes of GBS:
• Infections: Often preceded by bacterial or viral infections like: Campylobacter jejuni (foodborne illness). Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Bacteria causing pneumonia or urinary tract infections. Triggers: Recent vaccinations. Surgical procedures. Rarely, trauma or stress.
• Infections: Often preceded by bacterial or viral infections like: Campylobacter jejuni (foodborne illness). Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Bacteria causing pneumonia or urinary tract infections.
• Campylobacter jejuni (foodborne illness).
• Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV).
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV).
• Bacteria causing pneumonia or urinary tract infections.
• Triggers: Recent vaccinations. Surgical procedures. Rarely, trauma or stress.
• Recent vaccinations.
• Surgical procedures.
• Rarely, trauma or stress.
• Impact of GBS:
• Neurological Damage: Weakens the peripheral nervous system, disrupting signals between the brain and muscles. Temporary Paralysis: Can affect daily life, requiring intensive medical care. Recovery Period: Most patients recover within weeks to months, but severe cases may result in prolonged rehabilitation.
• Neurological Damage: Weakens the peripheral nervous system, disrupting signals between the brain and muscles.
• Temporary Paralysis: Can affect daily life, requiring intensive medical care.
• Recovery Period: Most patients recover within weeks to months, but severe cases may result in prolonged rehabilitation.
• Treatment for GBS:
• Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): Contains healthy antibodies from donated blood. Calms the immune system’s attack on nerves. Plasmapheresis (Plasma Exchange): Removes harmful antibodies from the bloodstream. Supportive Care: Ventilator support for respiratory paralysis. Physical therapy for rehabilitation.
• Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): Contains healthy antibodies from donated blood. Calms the immune system’s attack on nerves.
• Contains healthy antibodies from donated blood.
• Calms the immune system’s attack on nerves.
• Plasmapheresis (Plasma Exchange): Removes harmful antibodies from the bloodstream.
• Removes harmful antibodies from the bloodstream.
• Supportive Care: Ventilator support for respiratory paralysis. Physical therapy for rehabilitation.
• Ventilator support for respiratory paralysis.
• Physical therapy for rehabilitation.
Insta links:
• Indias-fight-against-rare-diseases
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 January 2025 Mapping:
Cabo Verde
Source: DTE
Context: The World Bank’s new report estimates that Cabo Verde, a small archipelago located off the coast of West Africa, will need to invest $842 million over 2024-2030, to address its climate and development challenges.
About Cabo Verde:
• Location: Cabo Verde is an island nation situated in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 570 kilometres west of Senegal, off the northwestern coast of Africa.
• Neighbour nations: The nearest country is Senegal on the African mainland.
• Capital: Praia, located on Santiago Island.
• Geographic features: Volcanic islands: Cabo Verde consists of 10 volcanic islands divided into the Barlavento (windward) and Sotavento (leeward) groups. Climate: The islands experience a moderate climate with stable temperatures but are extremely arid. No Major Rivers: Due to its arid climate, Cabo Verde lacks major rivers, relying instead on rainfall and underground water resources.
• Volcanic islands: Cabo Verde consists of 10 volcanic islands divided into the Barlavento (windward) and Sotavento (leeward) groups.
• Climate: The islands experience a moderate climate with stable temperatures but are extremely arid.
• No Major Rivers: Due to its arid climate, Cabo Verde lacks major rivers, relying instead on rainfall and underground water resources.
• Population: The majority of the population is of mixed African and European descent, often referred to as mestiço or Crioulo.
Insta links:
• Small-island-developing-states-SIDs
Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 24 Jan 2025
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