Context: Salt reduction in the diet is the most cost-effective measure to control non-communicable diseases. The World Health Organization had previously cautioned that the world is off track to achieve its global target of reducing salt intake by 30% by 2025.
The ill effects of excess salt
A recent study from Sweden has shown a connection between salt consumption and atherosclerosis, even in the absence of hypertension.
Atherosclerosis is a disease that blocks the blood vessels which can lead to heart attack.
Every gram of extra sodium was associated with a 9% occurrence of plaques in the carotid arteries which supply blood to the brain; and a 17% increase in coronary artery plaques.
According to a Cochrane review, higher salt in the diet in diabetic patients is associated with faster progression of kidney disease.
A higher amount of salt intake can lead to hypertension.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, notable studies from China and Germany pointed out the association between high salt intake and decreased immunity in the body.
Salt reduction in the diet is the most cost-effective measure to control non-communicable diseases.
Efforts to reduce salt consumption
The World Health Organization cautioned a couple of months ago that the world is off track to achieve its global target of reducing salt intake by 30% by 2025.
The report shows that only 5% of the WHO member states have mandatory and comprehensive sodium-reducing policies.
Additionally, seventy-three per cent of the WHO member states lack the full range implementation of the policies.
The U.K. has been the leading country in the world to have reduced salt consumption in the population. Over the last decade, the salt content of bread has been brought down by 30%, without people being aware.
The WHO has also established a scorecard for various countries. According to that card, India does not have a national policy but it does have voluntary measures to reduce sodium.
Only persons with hypertension or kidney disease are advised by their physicians to reduce salt in their diet.
The population is still unaware of the danger of hidden salt — salt present in ready-made and packed foods.
Located on the Mughal Road in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, this historic location holds significance in connection with a revered religious figure known as Alamdaar-e-Kashmir, Sheikh Noor-u-Din Noorani (RA) (1378 to 1441).
According to written accounts, the sacred site acquired its name due to the presence of Sheikh Ahmed Karim, a Hindu saint who converted to Islam.
It is important to note that the site is not a Mazar or the grave of a saint, but rather a place where Sheikh Ahmed Karim used to meditate. His actual grave is situated north of the grave of Bahuddin Ganj Bakash in Kashmir.
Historical reference
Francoise Barnier, in the year 1665, visited this location as part of the caravan accompanying the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
In his writings, Barnier states, "The saint had been residing here since the time of Mughal emperor Jahangir."Additionally, Barnier documented the
visits of both Aurangzeb and Shahjahan to this place.
Aliabad Sarai is another historical site situated near the Shrine:
According to historical records, it is indicated that the Sarai at this location was initially constructed by the Mughal emperor Akbar.
He commissioned its construction to provide lodging and amenities for travellers journeying along this route.
Later, the Sarai was restored by emperor Shahjahan, who named it after his loyal governor, Ali Mardan Khan. As a result, the Sarai became widely recognized as Aliabad Sarai.
Concept of Peer and Murid in Sufism
Peer: A distinguished title bestowed upon a Sufi spiritual guide, also known as Sheikh. Within Sufism, the role of a Peer entails guiding and instructing disciples along the path of Sufism.
This guidance is often provided through general teachings, referred to as Suhbas, as well as individualized guidance.
Murid: The journey of Sufism commences when a student takes a solemn oath of allegiance, known as Baiat or Bayaah, where they pledge their loyalty and repent for past transgressions before their Pir (spiritual guide).
Sufism Movement and its features
During the medieval period, Sufism arose as a departure from the established and rigid religious doctrines of the time, emphasizing the importance of religious experiences and direct perception of God rather than strict adherence to formal practices alone.
While Sufis acknowledged the significance of the Shariat (Islamic law), they placed great emphasis on cultivating personal religious experiences.
Sufism has been influenced by a variety of sources including Christianity, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, as well as the Indian philosophical systems of Vedanta and Yoga.
Sufi path:
The primary emphasis was on embarking upon the Sufi path as a means to establish direct communion with the divine reality.
The path could only be undertaken under the strict guidance of a spiritual mentor known as a ‘pir’.
The disciple, referred to as a ‘murid’, advanced through these stages and states by engaging in spiritual exercises such as self-discipline and the recollection of God's name.
Sama: One distinctive practice of the Sufis was the musical recital, which aimed to induce a mystical state of ecstasy. This practice faced opposition from the religious scholars (ulema).
Silsilahs:
The Sufis organized themselves into different orders known as Silsilahs. For example: Suhrawardi, Qadiri, and Chishti.
The activities of a Sufi order revolved around a hospice or khanqah, where the pir provided spiritual training to the disciples.
These khanqahs were sustained through endowments and charitable contributions.
Even before the Delhi Sultanate was established, early Sufi saints had already arrived in India. The subsequent development of Sufism in India was primarily shaped by the Indian environment rather than non-Indian forms of Sufism.
Among the notable early Sufi saints who settled in India was Al Hujwiri, also known as Data Ganj Baksh, who arrived in India around 1088 AD. He authored the renowned Sufi manual titled ‘Kashf-ul-Mahjub.’
During Delhi Sultanate:
With the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate, various Sufi orders found a new home in India, attracting Sufis who had fled from other parts of the Islamic world as refugees.
By the mid-14th century, the influence of Sufi activities had spread throughout most parts of the Indian subcontinent.
Organisation of Sufis in India
The Sufis in India organized themselves into various orders. According to Abul Fazal, there were fourteen Sufi orders that arrived in India, but only two of them, namely the Chishti and Suhravardi silsilahs, established strong roots in the country.
Chishti Silsilah
The Chishti silsilah originated in Ajmer and gradually spread to other regions such as Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Bengal, Orissa, and the Deccan.
Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti, introduced the Chishti order in India. He arrived in India during the Ghori conquest in 1190, and settled in Ajmer around 1206.
His simple, devout, and dedicated life had a profound impact on those who encountered him, earning respect from both Muslims and non-Muslims.
He was known for his tolerant attitude towards non-Muslims and was not actively involved in conversion efforts. Following his passing, his tomb in Ajmer became a renowned pilgrimage site.
The early Chishtis incorporated certain ethical values from the nathpanthi yogis and their communal way of life.
Suhravardi Silsilah
Shaikh Bahauddin Zakariya, introduced Suhravardi silsilah in India (1182-1262). He aligned himself with Iltutmish during the conquest of Multan against Qubacha and received state patronage from the Delhi Sultanate.
ltutmish bestowed upon him the title of Shaikh-ul Islam (Leader of Islam) and granted him an endowment.
The Suhravardi order-maintained connections with the ruling establishment and actively participated in political activities.
The Suhravardi silsilah was primarily concentrated in Sindh, Multan, Punjab and Bengal.
Unlike the Chistis, the Suhravardis did not advocate a life of poverty, extreme austerity, and self-mortification. In fact, they actively engaged with the government and willingly accepted official positions.
The Suhravardi silsilah was primarily associated with the upper echelons of Muslim society. Certain saints of the Suhravardi silsilah held rigid and uncompromising views on various religious and social matters.
Context: During an event, the Prime Minister, revealed the mascot for the International Museum Expo, which was a modernized rendition of the iconic Dancing Girl from Mohenjodaro. According to the Ministry of Culture the adaptation is not a transformation or reimagining of the original artwork but rather an inspired craftwork. The traditional craft of Channapatna toys, protected by a geographical indication (GI) tag, was employed in creating this mascot.
Channapatna Toys
Channapatna, widely recognised as the ‘City of Toys’ or the ‘Toy land of Karnataka’ is located in the Ramanagara District of Karnataka. The town is renowned for its exquisite toys produced by local small-scale industries.
History:
The history of Channapatna toys dates back over two centuries. Tipu Sultan (1750-1799) encouraged Persian artisans to come to India and teach the local craftsmen the art of making wooden toys.
One of the prominent figures in the development of Channapatna toys is Bavas Miyan, who dedicated his life to assisting local artisans, introducing new technologies, and enhancing the art of toy-making.
Material used:
Toys are crafted from soft ivory wood, known as Doodhi wood or Milkwood, is white in colour and easy to work with. The wood is meticulously carved and given a polished appearance.
Vegetable dyes are used for colouring the toys, ensuring that they are chemical-free and environmentally friendly.
Toy making process:
Traditionally, the process involved coating the wood of the Wrightia tinctoria tree,locally known as Aale mara (ivory-wood), with lacquer.
The manufacturing process has diversified over the years. In addition to ivory-wood, other woods such as rubber, sycamore, cedar, pine, and teak are now utilized.
The manufacturing stages include wood procurement, seasoning, shaping, carving, colouring, and polishing.
Wide range of varieties: In addition to dolls and horses, they include mathematical games, puzzles, showpieces such as vintage cars, beaded curtains, pen stands, snails, candle stands, and more.
The traditional craft has gained recognition as a geographical indication (GI) under the World Trade Organization and is overseen by the Government of Karnataka.
Context:The Dancing Girl figurine, which was unearthed in Mohenjodaro in 1926, has recently become the focal point of a heated debate.
What is dancing girl?
During an event, the Prime Minister, revealed the mascot for the International Museum Expo, which was a modernized rendition of the iconic Dancing Girl from Mohenjodaro.
While the ancient bronze figure stands at a mere height of 10.5 cm, with a dark complexion and being completely nude except for bangles and a necklace, the adapted mascot stands over five feet tall, has fairer skin, and is adorned in a bright pink blouse and an off-white waist-coat.
The Ministry of Culture maintains that the adaptation is not a transformation or reimagining of the original artwork but rather an inspired craftwork.
The traditional craft of Channapatna toys, protected by a geographical indication (GI) tag, was employed in creating this mascot.
Discovering the Dancing Girl
The Indus Civilization, also known as the Harappa-Mohenjodaro Civilization, thrived from 3300 to 1300 BC, with its mature stage dating from 2600 to 1900 BC.
This ancient civilization had been largely forgotten until its discovery was officially announced in 1924.
It was during one of these excavations in 1926, conducted by British archaeologist Ernest McKay, that the Dancing Girl figurine was discovered within the citadel of Mohenjodaro.
The Dancing Girl:
It is an extraordinary bronze statuette, crafted more than 4,500 years ago, and stands as a rare and exceptional masterpiece.
The statue holds immense cultural significance as it reflects the artistic aesthetics associated with the female form during that particular historical era.
It is constructed through the intricate lost-wax casting technique which showcases the remarkable skill and craftsmanship of the people of that time in working with bronze materials.
Standing tall, she displays long limbs, including legs and arms, a graceful neck, a subtle abdomen, and sensuous contours. The girl wears an assortment of bangles and a necklace, with her left arm adorned with bracelets and her right arm embellished with bangles.
Today, this bronze figurine is housed in the National Museum of India, serving as a valuable artifact that offers insight into the rich history of the Indus Civilization.
Inferences drawn from the figurine
As a dancer:John Marshall, the Director-General of the ASI from 1902 to 1928, suggested dancing pose of the figurine, which ed historians to believe that the woman was a dancer, although there is no concrete evidence to support this claim.
As a Goddess: Historian, Thakur Prasad Verma in Itihaas, claimed that the figurine actually depicted the Hindu goddess Parvati, attempting to establish a connection between the Indus Civilization and Vedic Hinduism. However, most historians have dismissed this claim, as there is insufficient evidence to confirm the presence of Hindu deity worship in the Harappa Mohenjodaro Civilization.
Artistic sophistication and knowledge of metallurgy:
It showcases the civilization's knowledge of metal blending and the complex process of lost-wax casting, which allows for the creation of intricately detailed metallic artifacts.
Evidently, the statue was not crafted for utilitarian purposes, but rather as a symbolically and aesthetically valuable artifact. It suggests that entertainment, particularly dance, held a significant role in their culture.
Mohenjodaro
The site Mohenjodaro (Mound of the Dead Men) is be found on the western bank of the lower Indus River, situated in Pakistan.
It is the largest settlement of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and ranks among the earliest major cities worldwide, contemporary with other civilizations such as ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and Minoan Crete.
It holds the distinction of being the first South Asian site to receive such a designation.
Findings at the site
The Great Bath:
Sir Mortimer Wheeler identified a prominent building in Mohenjodaro as a ‘Great Granary.’ Adjacent to it stands a large and intricate public bath, often referred to as the Great Bath. The bath was made waterproof with a lining of bitumen.
The pool measures 12 meters (39 feet) in length, 7 meters (23 feet) in width, and 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) in depth. It is speculated that the bath may have been used for religious purification.
Water supply and wells:
Mohenjodaro boasts an astonishing number of over 700 wells, along with well-structured drainage and bathing systems.
The sheer quantity of wells suggests that the inhabitants relied predominantly on annual rainfall, as well as the proximity of the Indus River to the site.
It is noteworthy that the circular brick well design, prevalent at Mohenjodaro and other Harappan sites, appears to be an innovation credited to the Indus civilization.
There is no existing evidence of this particular design in Mesopotamia or Egypt during that era or even later.
Major artefacts
Mother Goddess Idol:
Discovered by John Marshall, the idol exhibits certain characteristics that resemble the Mother Goddess belief, which was prevalent in numerous early Near East civilizations.
The idol prominently displays symbol of fertility and motherhood.
Priest-King:
This sculpture was discovered in a building characterized by remarkably ornamental brickwork and a wall-niche.
Although there is no concrete evidence supporting the notion that priests or monarchs held authority in Mohenjodaro, archaeologists bestowed the title of ‘Priest-King’ upon this dignified figure.
The sculpture portrays a well-groomed man with a neatly trimmed beard, pierced earlobes, and a fillet encircling his head, possibly remnants of a once-elaborate hairstyle or headpiece.
Pashupati seal:
A seal depicting a seated figure in a cross-legged position, with animals surrounding it.
The interpretation of this figure varies among scholars, with some considering it to represent a yogi, while others identify it as a three-headed ‘proto-Shiva,’ symbolizing the ‘Lord of Animals.’
The Mohenjo-Daro Ruler:
Around 1500 BCE, the Indus Valley civilization employed ivory rulers for measuring length.
The ruler discovered in Mohenjo-Daro is divided into unit equivalent to 34 millimeters, with decimal subdivisions marked with remarkable precision, accurate to within 0.13 mm.
Similarly, a ruler found at Lothal (2400 BCE) is calibrated to approximately 1.6 mm (1/16 inch).
Additionally, ancient bricks discovered in the region exhibit dimensions corresponding to these standardized units.
Context: Recently ISO Member Countries resolve to boost consumer engagement, and renew focus on sustainability in Standardisation.
About ISO
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent, non-governmental international organization with a membership of 168 national standards bodies.
The ISO story began in 1946 when delegates from 25 countries met at the Institute of Civil Engineers in London.
Its headquarters is based in Geneva Switzerland.
Through its members, it brings together experts to share knowledge and develop voluntary, consensus-based, market-relevant International Standards that support innovation and provide solutions to global challenges.
An International Standard provides rules, guidelines or characteristics for activities or for their results, aimed at achieving the optimum degree of order in a given context.
ISO standards are internationally agreed upon by experts Think of them as a formula that describes the best way of doing something. It provides standards for various sectors like-
Context: Last month, an annual report by the UN Population Fund revealed that India was all set to become the world’s most populous country by the middle of this year. It estimated that India’s population would be 1,428 million (or 142.8 crore) by that time, slightly ahead of China’s population of 1,425 million.
Importance of Census
India would have had a far more accurate number for its population had the 2021 Census exercise been carried out. The 2021 Census had to be postponed because of the Covid pandemic, the first time in the 150-year history of India’s census operations that the exercise was not completed on time. Curiously, the Census has been pending even after the end of the pandemic and the restoration of normalcy.
As of now, there is no clarity on the timeline. The enumeration work — the actual counting of people — has traditionally been done in February of the Census year, and if the same practice is to be followed, the earliest it can now be done is in February next year.
Ten-year cycle – A constitutional or just a Legal mandate?
A Census is Constitutionally mandated in India. There are repeated references to the Census exercise in the Constitution in the context of reorganisation of constituencies for Parliament and state Assemblies. But the Constitution does not say when the Census has to be carried out, or what the frequency of this exercise should be. The Census of India Act of 1948, which provides the legal framework for carrying out the Census, also does not mention its timing or periodicity.
There is, therefore, no Constitutional or legal requirement that a Census has to be done every 10 years. However, this exercise has been carried out in the first year of every decade, without fail, since 1881. Most other countries also follow the 10-year cycle for their Census. There are countries like Australia that do it every five years.
Census Act, 1948
Although the population Census of India is a major administrative function, the Census Organisation was set up on an ad-hoc basis for each Census till the Census of 1951.
The Census Act, enacted in 1948, then provided for the permanent scheme of conducting population Census with duties and responsibilities of Census Officers.
The Act makes it obligatory on the part of every citizen to answer the Census question truthfully and also penalises for giving false information.
One of the most important provisions of the Census Act 1948 is that it makes provisions for the maintenance of secrecy of the information collected at the Census of each individual. All information collected under the Census is confidential and is not shared with any agency- Government or private.
Authority Involved
The Government of India in May 1949 decided to initiate steps for developing the systematic collection of statistics on the size of the population, its growth, etc.
For this purpose, it established an organisation viz. Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner under Ministry of Home Affairs (which is responsible for conducting the decennial Census).
Later, this office was also entrusted with the responsibility of implementation of Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 in the country.
It is not the legal requirement but the utility of the Census that has made it a permanent regular exercise. The Census produces primary, authentic data that becomes the backbone of every statistical enterprise, informing all planning, administrative and economic decision-making processes. It is the basis on which every social, economic and other indicator is built. Lack of reliable data – 12-year-old data on a constantly changing metric is not reliable – has the potential to upset every indicator on India, and affect the efficacy and efficiency of all kinds of developmental initiatives.
Besides, a break in periodicity results in data that is not comparable in some respects to the earlier sets.
Population censuses are important for several reasons:
Planning and Policy: Census data provides vital information for governments and policymakers to make informed decisions and develop effective plans. It helps in determining the allocation of resources, such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social welfare programs, based on the population's needs. Census data assists in identifying demographic trends, population distribution, and changes in population size over time, which guides policy formulation and implementation.
Resource Allocation: Census data helps in the fair distribution of resources. It provides accurate population counts and demographic information, which enable governments to allocate funds and services equitably across different regions and communities. By understanding the population characteristics, governments can identify areas with specific needs and allocate resources accordingly.
Infrastructure Development: Census data aids in infrastructure planning and development. It provides insights into population density, migration patterns, and urbanization trends, which help in determining where new infrastructure, such as roads, schools, hospitals, and utilities, should be built. It assists in efficient urban planning and ensures that infrastructure projects are aligned with the population's requirements.
Economic Analysis: Census data plays a crucial role in economic analysis and decision-making. It provides information on employment, occupation, income levels, and other socioeconomic indicators. Governments, businesses, researchers, and policymakers utilize this data to analyze market trends, assess labor force needs, identify potential investment opportunities, and develop economic policies.
Social Research and Demographic Studies: Census data serves as a valuable resource for social research and demographic studies. Researchers and analysts utilize this data to study population dynamics, social inequalities, migration patterns, family structures, and other demographic characteristics. It helps in understanding societal changes, tracking population trends, and formulating social policies.
Electoral Representation: Census data is utilized for determining electoral boundaries and ensuring fair political representation. It provides information on population distribution, allowing governments to redraw electoral districts to ensure each district has roughly equal populations. This process helps maintain democratic principles by ensuring that each citizen's vote carries equal weight.
Monitoring Progress and Evaluating Policies: Census data provides a baseline for monitoring progress and evaluating the effectiveness of policies and programs. By conducting periodic censuses, governments can compare population data over time and assess the impact of various interventions. It enables policymakers to identify areas where policies have been successful and areas that require further attention.
Overall, population censuses are crucial for informed decision-making, equitable resource allocation, policy formulation, and monitoring societal changes. They provide a comprehensive understanding of the population, facilitating better governance, planning, and development for the benefit of society as a whole.
Challenges faced during conduct of Census in India:
The enormous financial costs of conducting the exercise pose one of the biggest challenges associated with census in poor countries. Conducting a census is widely known to be extremely costly.
Conducting censuses in countries with high illiteracy rates presents a significant obstacle. These nations struggle with large proportions of their populations being illiterates, making the census process more challenging.
Poor infrastructural facilities in certain areas make it very difficult to undertake an efficient population census. Inaccessible or insufficient roads that connect various towns and villages create hurdles for conducting the census exercise.
Census officers encounter serious challenges in underdeveloped parts of the world where traditional and religious beliefs prevail. Traditional beliefs often interfere with the counting process when officers reach these areas.
Corruption adds another layer of complexity to the census process. When corruption occurs during census activities, it becomes difficult to achieve an efficient and accurate population count.
Certain parts of the world suffer from a shortage of census experts. The insufficient number of professionals with the necessary knowledge and experience of conducting a census poses a problem for conducting censuses in these regions.
The success of a census exercise heavily relies on an effective educational campaign. The level of effectiveness of the campaign conducted prior to the census determines the overall success of the census exercise.
Unreliable demographic maps make it challenging for authorities to identify and reach all remote areas, especially very remote regions of the country, for conducting the census exercise.
In conclusion, the population census holds immense importance as a constitutional and administrative function in India. Although not legally required to be conducted every ten years, the census has been consistently carried out since 1881, providing primary and authentic data that serves as the foundation for various statistical endeavors. The census data plays a vital role in planning, policymaking, resource allocation, infrastructure development, economic analysis, social research, electoral representation, and monitoring progress and evaluating policies. By understanding demographic trends and population characteristics, governments can make informed decisions and address the needs of different regions and communities.
However, the conduct of the census in India faces significant challenges, including financial constraints, high illiteracy rates, inadequate infrastructure, traditional beliefs, corruption, a shortage of experts, insufficient educational campaigns, and unreliable demographic maps. Overcoming these challenges is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable data, which forms the basis for effective governance, planning, and development for the betterment of society as a whole.
Context: Recently two-day National Workshop commenced with presentations from representatives of top tech companies informing the delegates about the developments in the field of emerging technologies for enabling good governance representing Microsoft, IBM and Google Inc, for making National e- Vidhan Application (NeVA) more accessible, discoverable, insightful by use of Generative Artificial Intelligence models.
About National e- Vidhan Application (NeVA)
NeVA is a workflow system deployed on NIC Cloud, MeghRaj which helps the Chair of the House to conduct the proceedings of the House smoothly.
Hon’ble Members to carry out their duties in the House efficiently and to conduct Legislative Business of the House in a Paperless manner.
NeVA is a device-neutral and member-centric application created to equip them to handle diverse House Businesses smartly by putting entire information regarding member contact details, rules of procedure, list of business, notices, bulletins, bills, starred/unstarred questions and answers, papers laid, committee reports etc. in their handheld devices/ tablets and equip all Legislatures/ Departments to handle it efficiently.
NeVA will completely eliminate the process of sending out a notice/request for the collection of data.
The application hosts a secure page for each Member of the House for submitting questions & other notices.
The aim of the project is to bring all the legislatures of the country together, in one platform thereby creating a massive data depository without having the complexity of multiple applications.
mNeVA is a user-friendly Mobile App of NeVA that is available on Android as well as on iOS.
mNeVA has made information on the conduct of business in Legislatures accessible anytime, anywhere to everyone.
Context:India has appealed against the ruling made by dispute settlement body of WTO against the Indian government decision of imposition of tariff on mobile phones and electronic components. The case was filed against India by Japan highlighting that India has violated global trading rules under the Information technology agreement (ITA).
It is to understand that resolving trade disputes is one of the core activities of the WTO.
A dispute arises when a member government believes another member government is violating an agreement or a commitment that it has made in the WTO.
GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM UNDER WTO
Dispute settlement is a central pillar of Multilateral Trading System and essential for stability and rule of law global economy.
Dispute Settlement Body: Settling disputes is the responsibility of Dispute Settlement Body, which consists of all WTO members. Dispute Settlement Body has sole authority to establish 'Panels' of experts to consider the case and to accept or reject the panel's findings or results of an appeal. It monitors implementation of rulings and recommendations and has power to authorize retaliation when a country does not comply with a ruling.
First Stage - Consultation: Before taking any other action, countries in dispute talk to each other to see if they can settle their differences by themselves. However, if talks fail, they can ask WTO Director-General to mediate or try to help.
Second Stage - Panel: If consultations fail, complaining countries can ask for a panel to be appointed. The country 'in the dock' can block the creation of a panel once, but when Dispute Settlement Body meets for a second time, the panel must be constituted unless there is a consensus against it. The Panel helps the Dispute Settlement Body makes rulings or recommendations. Since the panel's report can only be rejected by consensus in the Dispute Settlement Body, its conclusions are difficult to overturn. The final report of the panel is the ruling or recommendation of Dispute Settlement Body unless a consensus rejects it. Both sides can appeal the report.
Appeals to Appellate Body: Appeals must be based on points of law such as legal interpretation. Each appeal is heard by three members of a permanent seven-member Appellate Body set up by the Dispute Settlement Body and broadly representing the range of WTO membership. Members of Appellate Body have four-year terms. Members of Appellate Body are individuals with recognised standing in law and international trade, they are not affiliated with any government. An appeal can uphold, modify or reverse the panel's legal findings. Dispute Settlement Body must accept or reject the appeals report and rejection is possible only by consensus.
Enforcement of decisions: Priority for enforcement actions brings the policies of losing the country in line with the final ruling of WTO Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) and in a reasonable time. If it fails to act within a period of 30 days, the losing side must enter negotiations with the complaining country to determine a mutually acceptable solution. However, if after 20 days, no satisfactory compensation is agreed upon, the winning side may ask DSB to retaliate. Retaliation is a temporary measure, focused on encouraging the losing country to comply. Ex. Winning side can block imports from the losing country. In principle, the retaliation should be in the same sector as the dispute. However, if this is not effective or practical, it can be in a different sector of the same agreement. However, in serious issues, actions can be taken under another agreement also.
It is an interim, alternative mechanism for resolving WTO disputes that are appealed by a Member by arbitrations in the absence of a functioning and staffed WTO Appellate Body.
WTO Appellate Body has been dysfunctional since 2019 due to USA blockage of appointments of members to the Appellate Body of WTO.
Article 25 of Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes allows for parties to resolve disputes in the implementation of WTO Rules by arbitration as an alternative to adjudication by panels and the Appellate Body. Under the Article, parties must agree on arbitration and procedures to be followed.
MPIA provides that the participating members will resolve disputes by using arbitrations, instead of appealing to the non-functional Appellate Body, when they are unable to accept the adoption of the panel decisions.
Countries participating: Currently, 52 countries and regions, including EU, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Singapore, Japan & New Zealand are prominent countries participating in MPIA.
The Aayog brings out the index in collaboration with the Union Health Ministry and World Bank.
It measures the performance of states and UTs on a “weighted composite score incorporating 24 health performance indicators.
The ‘health outcomes’ include indicators like neonatal mortality rate, total fertility rate, sex ratio at birth, immunisation coverage, proportion of institutional deliveries, total case notification rate of tuberculosis, and proportion of people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy.
The ‘key inputs/ processes’ is a measure of health infrastructure available, including proportion of functional 24X7 primary healthcare centres, districts with functional cardiac care units, and vacancies in healthcare provider positions.
The ‘governance and information’ domain includes indicators like proportion of institutional deliveries, average occupancy (in months) of three key posts at state level, average occupancy (in months) of the chief medical officer, and days taken for fund transfer.
The health index assesses states and UTs on two parameters – incremental performance (year-on-year progress) and overall performance.
The states and UTs — categorised separately as ‘larger states’, ‘smaller states’ and UTs — are then ranked based on their scores.
Annual ‘health index’ for the Covid year of 2020-21
While the 2020-21 (fifth) health index report was supposed to be released by December 2022, it has not been made public yet. The NITI Aayog is learnt to have shared the report – Healthy States Progressive India Report on the Ranks of States and Union Territories – with the Health Ministry.
Key Facts
Among the 19 ‘larger states’, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana have emerged as the top three performers, occupying first, second and third place respectively, in terms of overall performance.
Bihar (19th), Uttar Pradesh (18th) and Madhya Pradesh (17th) are at the bottom of the list.
In terms of incremental performance, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Odisha emerged as the top three performers in 2020-21, as compared to their performance in 2019-20.
Among the eight smaller states, Tripura has recorded the best overall performance, followed by Sikkim and Goa; Arunachal Pradesh(6th),Nagaland (7th) and Manipur (8th) are at the bottom.
And among the eight UTs,Lakshadweep has been ranked as the top performer in terms of overall performance, while Delhi ranked at the bottom.
Context: Census 2021, which has been postponed indefinitely, will be the first digital Census giving citizens an opportunity to “self-enumerate” as and when it is conducted. The government has not announced when the next Census will be held, with a January 2, 2023 notification ruling out the exercise at least till September.
About Self enumeration
The Office of the Registrar of General of India (ORGI), which conducts the Census, has developed a “self-enumeration (SE)” portal which is presently available in English only.
With the help of this SE portal, any usual resident of India can update census-related information on their own without involving government enumerators.
If citizens want to exercise the right to fill out the Census form on their own rather than through government enumerators, they will have to first update their National Population Register (NPR)details online . The NPR, first put together in 2010 and updated in 2015, already has the details of 119 crore people.
During self-enumeration in NPR, Aadhaar / mobile number is mandatorily collected.
Benefits of Self Enumeration
Respondents can update the details of their family members online without the help of an enumerator for “privacy” and to reduce the financial and administrative burden incurred in the collection of field data.
The portal accessible to “respondents of India” will offer “ secure and controlled access to the respondent’s family information and authentication based on pre-filled information available with ORGI and One Time Password (OTP) sent to a registered mobile number,” the report said.
The respondent will be allowed to change the family member details and add details of new family members. Those who are no longer part of the household shall be marked as “moved out or died”.
The Census is conducted in two phases-
1. The first phase — the House-listing Operations (HLO) and Housing Census — is to be conducted with simultaneous updating of NPR.
2. The second phase- Population enumeration is the main phase, which collects details on key social and economic parameters.
Initially, it had been decided that during the HLO, the mobile number from the households willing to share them would be collected, and then, used for giving people access to self-enumeration during the second phase — the population enumeration. “Later, when the Census and NPR exercise was postponed due to COVID-19, it was decided to extend the self-enumeration facility for HLO also.
According to the Citizenship Rules 2003, the NPR is the first step towards the compilation of the National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC/NRC).
The yet-to-be-launched mobile-friendly portal will allow users to register their mobile number in the NPR database, self-enumerate and fill in the details under house listing Operations.
National Population Register (NPR)
The NPR pre-test form in 2019 collected details on 14 parameters of all family members of a household. The sub-heads included:
1. Passport number,
2. Relationship with the head of the family,
3. Whether divorced/widowed or separated,
4. The mother tongue and the kind of occupation, among others.
The trial form had a column on Aadhar, mobile phone number, Voter ID and driving licence numbers to be provided if available with the respondent. The final form is yet to be published.
The government earlier said that the objective of the NPR is to create a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the country and it is “mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR.”
While similar data is collected through the Census, according to Section 15 of the Census Act, of 1948, individual data are confidential and “only aggregated data are released at various administrative levels.”
The Home Ministry had earlier said that data collected under the NPR are shared with States and used by the Central government for various welfare schemes at the individual level.
Context:PM Modi during the recent FIPIC summit communicated that Small island nations of the Pacific Ocean are in fact “large ocean states”, highlighting the importance of the 14 members of the Forum for India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). He also spoke in favour of free and open Indo-Pacific region and focused on India’s commitment to assist the development goals of the member-countries.
Mr. Modi also highlighted the close cooperation by explaining Climate change, natural calamities, poverty and famine already existed but now new challenges are emerging as supply chains of food, fuel fertilizer and pharma are facing hurdles. Those we thought were reliable, we came to know they were not standing with us. In this time of difficulty, the old saying that a friend in need is a friend indeed has been proved. From vaccines to medicines, wheat and sugar, India has supplied the countries that needed the items
He was also conferred the Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu (GCL), the highest civilian award of Papua New Guinea.
PM Modi further unveiled a comprehensive 12-step initiative aimed at advancing India's collaborations with the countries in the Pacific region which included FIPIC SME Development Project, Solar project for Government buildings, Provide desalination units for drinking water, Supply sea ambulances, Set up dialysis units, Set up of 24x7 emergency helpline, Set up of Jan Aushadi Kendras, Set up Yoga centres
At the same time members of the FIPIC highlighted that they are victims of global power play and they want India to advocate for them and sit in those meetings,”. They also urged India to serve as the voice of the Global South in the G-7 and the G-20.
The recent visit of PM Modi to Papua New Guinea highlights the growing strategic significance of the Pacific Island nations, which have also received attention from China, with the country having signed a security agreement last year with the Solomon Islands.
India and the Pacific Island Nations
Historically, India’s interaction with the region goes back to the colonial era, in the early 19th century when Indian workers were taken to the region, to work as indentured plantation labourers, most of whom settled there, particularly in Fiji and PNG. However in the post-colonial era until recently the region did not find much significance in India’s foreign policy.
In the recent times the changing geopolitical scenario and strategic and economic compulsions have driven India to refresh and redesign its Pacific policy.
India's involvement with these 14 nations aligns with its Act East Policy, and the country has primarily fostered its relationships with them through developmental aid as part of South-South Cooperation.
The PICs with their resource rich Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) can be attractive sources of natural and mineral resources like LNG and hydrocarbons to fuel India’s growing economy and can also provide new markets for its products. Some of the PICs have EEZs that are larger than the landmass and EEZ of India taken together.
Further India with its rising naval capabilities begins to look beyond the east of Malacca, the PIC’s would become inevitably significant in India’s broader maritime strategy.
However, India’s interaction with the PICs still largely revolves around its engagement with Fiji and PNG, mainly driven by the presence of sizeable Indian Diaspora
Nearly 40 percent of Fiji’s population is of Indian origin and about 3000 Indians live in PNG.
In terms of institutional engagements, India participates in the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) as one of the key dialogue partners of the Forum.
The most important development in facilitating India’s interaction with the PICs in recent years has been the formation of FIPIC.
In 2019 PM Modi announced US$12 million grant (US$ 1 million to each PSIDS) towards the implementation of high impact developmental project in the area of their choice
There was also announcement made for a concessional Line of Credit of US$150 million which can be availed by these countries for undertaking solar, renewable energy and climate-related projects based on their requirements.
An ‘India-Pacific Islands Sustainable Development Conference’, was also organized in Fiji 2017. The conference focused on discussing the issues including the blue economy, adaptation-mitigation practices for climate change, disaster preparedness and health
In 2017, India launched Climate Early Warning Systems in seven PICs. India has regularly provided assistance in these counties to deal with consequences of frequent cyclones like the relief and rehabilitation grant was provided when Tropical Cyclone Hola hit Vanuatu in 2018.
India has also offered a Line of Credit set up a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant and the distribution centre in the Pacific Island region for access to affordable drug and has
Further, India has provided financial assistance for the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector in these countries, helping many small scale entrepreneurs to develop their own business.
At this moment, total annual trade of about $300 million between the Indian and Pacific Island countries, whereas exports are around $200 million and imports are around $100 million.
Recent Developments in the region:
Located between the US, China and Australia, the Pacific island countries hold strategic importance for security and defence. The US has long maintained influence and a military presence in the Pacific region. Over the last decade, China has focused on strengthening its ties in Pacific through increased aid development, diplomacy and security cooperation.
The area gained prominence when in 2022, Solomon Islands signed a security pact sparking international concern over the possibility of Beijing building its first military base in the region.
China has also signed off on a variety of smaller bilateral agreements during the same tour. To counter the move, newly appointed Australian Foreign Minister, immediately travelled to Fiji, Samoa and Tonga to shore up Australian diplomatic interests in Oceania
ISOLATION OF TAIWAN: Strategist are of the opinion that China would use the island countries to further isolate Taiwan from the diplomatic support it receives from the region.
Several countries in Oceania (The Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, and Tuvalu) recognize Taiwan as a sovereign country. Chinese outreach and development manoeuvrings could therefore help them reduce regional support for Taiwanese independence.
As a testimony to this Honiara has recently cut ties with Taiwan and followed Beijing’s line on the “One China” policy. The “Inter-governmental Framework Agreement on Security Cooperation” between Beijing-Honiara is a culmination of these efforts.
ISOLATION OF AUSTRALIA: Increased Chinese influence in the region could lead to more overseas military bases being built, and could lead to Australia, a vital Pacific ally for the United States, to be isolated, cutting them from supply lines from overseas.
THE ZERO SUM GAME IN PACIFIC: China’s engagement with South Pacific is about increasing its influence and about diminishing American and Australian influence. It’s a zero-sum game. Australia has a security cooperation agreement with Honiara and is a preferred security provider. Australia went from being a “key security provider” to becoming “one of the options” to seek out.
GREAT GAME IN PACIFIC: The US’ posture and initiatives in Indo-Pacific are also worrying China. US’ Indo-Pacific strategy outlines that it is keen to focus on “every corner of the region including the Pacific Islands. Further the formation of Quad and US’ Indo-Pacific strategy have worried China, so this game of influence will further intensify.
REGIONAL ECONOMICS: The Pacific region is also an important route to transport products and natural resources. Further the exports from Australia (as Australia supplies critical minerals like that of iron ore, coal, and raw cotton and exports to important allies like Australia and other countries like New Zealand pass through this sea area.
CLIMATE HAZARDS: Many Pacific Island nations are worried of the impact of climate change and rising sea levels, which pose an immediate existential threat. In fact, the Fijian Defence Minister, in the recent Shangri-La Dialogues that the greatest threat to the region is not a conflict between China and the U.S., but rather the geopolitical effects of climate change.
CONCLUSION:
As two geopolitical superpowers start to compete for political dominance in the region, the region as a whole now risks being dragged into conflicts, being used as pawns in broader global ambitions, and at the worst, could see themselves as the site of an armed conflict.
Context: The Allahabad High Court ordered scientific survey that includes Carbon dating of a ‘Shivling’, found at the Gyanvyapi mosque complex in Varanasi.
Radiocarbon Dating Pioneer
An American physical chemist, Willard Libby spearheaded a group of scientists in devising a technique to gauge radiocarbon activity.
He is acknowledged as the first scientist to propose the existence of the unstable carbon isotope known as radiocarbon or carbon-14 within living organisms.
He measured the rate of decay of radiocarbon and established a half-life of 5568 years ± 30 years.
In recognition of his contributions to the development of radiocarbon dating, Mr. Libby was honoured with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1960.
Carbon dating
The most prevalent carbon isotope in the atmosphere is C-12, while a small amount of C-14 is also present. The ratio of C-12 to C-14 in the atmosphere remains relatively constant.
Plants obtain carbon through photosynthesis, and animals primarily acquire it from their diet. As plants and animals derive their carbon from the atmosphere, they accumulate C-12 and C-14 in a similar proportion to what is available in the atmosphere.
When they die, their interaction with the atmosphere ceases. While C-12 remains stable, the radioactive C-14 undergoes a process called "half-life," wherein it reduces to half its initial amount in approximately 5,730 years.
Carbon-14 serves as an isotopic timekeeper. By measuring the amount of carbon-14 present in a sample and comparing it to an internationally recognized reference standard, an approximate age can be determined.
Significance
It stands as a ground breaking scientific method that has not only transformed our comprehension of the present but has also unravelled events that occurred thousands of years ago.
Archaeology and various fields within the realm of human sciences heavily rely on radiocarbon dating to validate or refute theories.
Moreover, throughout the years, carbon-14 dating has found practical applications in diverse disciplines such as geology, hydrology, geophysics, atmospheric science, oceanography, paleoclimatology, and even biomedicine.
Limitations
While carbon dating is highly reliable, it does have limitations in its applicability.
For instance, it cannot be employed to ascertain the age of inanimate objects like rocks.
Carbon dating is not suitable for determining the age of items that exceed approximately 40,000-50,000 years. The majority of rocks of interest surpass this timeframe.
This restriction arises from the fact that, after undergoing 8-10 half-life cycles, the quantity of C-14 becomes exceedingly minuscule and becomes nearly undetectable.
Alternative methods
Alternative methods exist for determining the age of inanimate objects, many of which operate on the same principles as carbon dating. Instead of carbon, the decay of other radioactive elements present in the material serves as the basis for these dating techniques.
Potassium-Argon dating: Radioactive isotope of potassium decays into argon, and analysing their respective ratios provides insights into the age of rocks.
Uranium-Thorium-Lead dating: They possess multiple radioactive isotopes, all of which decay into stable lead atoms. By measuring the ratios of these elements within a material, estimates about its age can be derived.
Cosmogenic Nuclide dating:
Additionally, there are techniques to determine the duration of an object's exposure to sunlight.
These methods employ different approaches but are also based on radioactive decay, making them particularly valuable for studying buried objects or changes in topography.
One commonly used technique is cosmogenic nuclide dating, or CRN, which is frequently applied to assess the age of ice cores in polar regions.
Indirect use of Carbon dating method:
The age of ice cores in glaciers and polar regions can be determined by examining the trapped carbon dioxide molecules within large ice sheets.
These molecules have had no interaction with the external atmosphere and are preserved in the same state as when they were trapped.
Estimating their age provides a rough approximation of when the ice sheets were formed.
Practice MCQ
Q. With reference to the Radioactive dating methods, consider the following statements:
1. Carbon dating is the most effective method to estimate age of organisms as well as inanimate objects.
2. Carbon-14 is the most prevalent carbon isotope in the atmosphere and its ratio remains stable to that of Carbon-12.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
