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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 01/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 01/04/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 01/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 01/04/2024

Genetic profiling of captive jumbos of Kerala to begin soon

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Kerala Forest Department is set to embark on a genetic profiling project for the state’s captive elephant population.

  • This initiative is part of a larger effort by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) to compile a national database of elephant genetic information.

Key Highlights

  • Implementation Plan:
    • The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has supplied forensic kits to the Kerala Forest Department for genetic profiling.
    • Assistant conservators (social forestry) in various districts have been assigned the task of collecting blood and dung samples from captive elephants in their respective areas.
    • An online training program has been scheduled for forest officials to educate them on proper sample collection techniques and report updating procedures.
    • National Scope of the Initiative:
      • Genetic profiling of captive elephants has been undertaken in several other states.
      • It is estimated that there are around 3,000 captive elephants across the country.
    • The database will include photographs and detailed physical descriptions of individual elephants, including height, along with their genetic profiles.
  • Declining Elephant Population in Kerala:
    • Kerala’s captive elephant population has dwindled to an all-time low of 407, with approximately 25 elephant deaths reported annually.
    • Kerala, once boasting the largest population of captive elephants, now faces a significant decline in numbers.
  • Introduction to GajaSuchana Application:
    • The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has developed a mobile application called GajaSuchana.
    • This application allows officials from all State Forest departments in India to access data related to captive elephant populations.
  • Purpose of Genetic Profiling:
    • The genetic profiling of captive elephants aims to monitor their movement within and between states.
    • It assists in identifying elephants lacking valid ownership certificates, thereby combating illegal transfers.
    • Additionally, the profiling contributes to ensuring the welfare of captive elephants by tracking their status and conditions.
  • Role of Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change:
    • The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change is driving efforts to regulate the transfer of captive elephants.
    • The Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024, were recently introduced to address this issue.

What is genetic profiling?

  • Genetic profiling, also known as genetic fingerprinting or DNA profiling, is a technique used to analyze an individual’s unique genetic makeup.
  • It involves identifying and analyzing specific regions of an individual’s DNA to create a genetic profile that is distinct to that individual.
  • Genetic profiling is commonly used in various fields:
    • Forensics:
      • Genetic profiling is widely used in forensic science to identify individuals based on DNA evidence collected from crime scenes.
      • It can be used to link suspects to crime scenes or to exonerate individuals who have been wrongly accused.
    • Paternity Testing:
      • Genetic profiling can determine biological relationships between individuals, such as paternity or maternity testing.
      • By comparing the genetic profiles of individuals, it is possible to establish familial relationships.
    • Medical Diagnostics:
      • Genetic profiling can be used in medical diagnostics to identify genetic mutations or variations associated with diseases or genetic disorders.
      • It can help in predicting an individual’s risk of developing certain diseases or in determining the effectiveness of certain treatments.
    • Anthropology and Population Genetics:
      • Genetic profiling is used in anthropology and population genetics to study human migration patterns, population genetics, and evolutionary relationships between different populations.

The ART of India’s HIV/AIDS response

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

April 1 marks a significant milestone in India’s response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, as it commemorates the launch of Free Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) for Persons living with HIV (PLHIV) by the Indian government twenty years ago, in 2004.

Key Highlights

  • Evolution of HIV/AIDS Treatment:
    • In the early 1980s, HIV/AIDS was considered a death sentence, accompanied by fear, stigma, and discrimination.
    • Antiretroviral drugs such as AZT (zidovudine) were approved by the US FDA in the late 1980s, followed by the introduction of protease inhibitors in 1995.
    • However, access to these medicines remained limited globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
    • Global Efforts and Millennium Summit Declaration:
      • At the UN General Assembly’s Millennium Summit in 2000, world leaders committed to halting and reversing the spread of HIV/AIDS.
      • The creation of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria in 2002 advocated for universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services.
    • Situation in India Pre-2004:
      • In 2004, India had an estimated 5.1 million PLHIV, with a population prevalence of 0.4%.
      • Access to antiretroviral therapy was extremely limited, with only 7,000 PLHIV on ART by the end of the same year.
      • Barriers to ART Access:
        • High costs and unaffordability of antiretroviral drugs were major barriers to access.
        • HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) was available since 1996 but remained prohibitively expensive, costing around $10,000 per year.
        • Stigma associated with HIV/AIDS further hindered access to treatment, leading to unnecessary loss of lives.
      • Path-Breaking Decision for Free ART:
        • The decision to provide free ART for all adults living with HIV was a significant breakthrough, addressing cost barriers and expanding access to treatment.
        • Free ART for children was made available from November 2006, further extending the initiative’s reach.
        • Expansion of ART Facilities:
          • Over the past two decades, the number of ART centers has increased significantly, from less than 10 to around 700 centers.
          • Approximately 1.8 million PLHIV have benefitted from free ART, facilitated by 1,264 Link ART centers across the country.
        • Impact of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) on HIV/AIDS Epidemic:
          • ART not only initiates treatment for individuals living with HIV but also aims to suppress the viral load, thereby halting disease transmission.
          • By 2023, India witnessed a significant decrease in HIV prevalence among 15-49-year-olds to 0.20, with an estimated 2.4 million PLHIV, reducing India’s global share to 6.3% from around 10% two decades ago.
          • Notably, 82% of PLHIV were aware of their HIV status, 72% were on ART, and 68% achieved viral suppression by the end of 2023.
          • Complementary Initiatives Contributing to Success:
            • Free ART alone cannot be solely credited for these achievements; several complementary initiatives played crucial roles.
            • These include the provision of free diagnostic facilities, focus on prevention of parent-to-child transmission of HIV (PPTCT) services, and management of opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis (TB).
          • Adaptive Program Strategies:
            • The ART program demonstrated agility and dynamic modifications over the years.
            • The eligibility criteria for ART initiation evolved from CD4 count less than 200 cells/mm3 (in 2004) to less than 500 cells/mm3 (in 2016), culminating in the ‘Treat All’ approach since 2017, initiating ART irrespective of CD4 count.
            • This universalization of treatment contributed to reduced virus transmission at both individual and community levels.
          • Patient-Centric Approach:
            • The program adopted a patient-centric approach by providing two to three months of medicines to stable PLHIV, reducing the number of visits to ART centers.
            • This minimizes travel time and costs for patients, enhancing treatment adherence and continuity of care.
          • Integration of Newer and Potent Drugs:
            • India continued to enhance its ART program by incorporating newer and more potent drugs as they became available.
            • For instance, Dolutegravir (DTG), introduced in 2020, offered superior virological efficacy with minimal adverse effects, improving treatment outcomes.
          • Policy Innovations:
            • In 2021, India adopted a policy of rapid ART initiation, where individuals were started on ART within seven days of HIV diagnosis, and in some cases, even the same day.
            • This rapid initiation approach aims to expedite treatment initiation, improving health outcomes and reducing transmission rates.
          • Ongoing Challenges and Targets:
            • Despite significant progress, the fight against HIV/AIDS remains ongoing.
            • The fifth phase of India’s National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) aims to achieve ambitious targets by 2025.
            • These targets include reducing annual new HIV infections and AIDS-related mortalities by 80%, and eliminating vertical transmission of HIV and syphilis.
            • 95-95-95 Targets:
              • NACP phase 5 aligns with global targets agreed by UNAIDS, focusing on achieving 95-95-95 by 2025.
              • This entails ensuring that 95% of all people living with HIV know their HIV status, 95% of diagnosed individuals receive sustained ART, and 95% of those on ART achieve viral suppression.
            • Challenges Yet to Be Tackled:
              • Delayed Enrolment to ART Facilities:
                • A significant challenge is the delayed enrolment of patients to ART centers, particularly those presenting with CD4 counts below 200.
              • Loss to Follow Up:
                • Patients often discontinue treatment once they start feeling well, leading to missed doses and resistance development.
                • Addressing this “loss to follow up” is crucial.
              • Ensuring Supply and Availability of ART:
                • Sustained supply and availability of ART need to be ensured across all geographic regions, especially in remote and challenging terrains.
              • Engagement of Private Sector:
                • There is a need to engage the private sector in the care of PLHIV to broaden access to services.
              • Continuous Training and Capacity Building:
                • Staff require ongoing training and capacity building to keep up with evolving scientific advancements, with a focus on practical, hands-on training.
              • Integration with Other Programs:
                • Integration with other health programs, such as hepatitis, non-communicable diseases, and mental health, is essential to address the holistic health needs of PLHIV.
              • Reducing Preventable Mortality:
                • A focused approach is needed to reduce preventable mortality, including systematic death reviews and access to advanced diagnostics.
              • Success Factors of Free ART Initiative:
                • Political Will and Government Support: The initiative’s success is attributed to strong political will and consistent support from successive governments.
                • Sustained Funding and Program Reviews: Adequate funding and regular program reviews have contributed to the initiative’s success.
                • Complementary Initiatives and Community Engagement: A series of complementary initiatives and active engagement of communities and stakeholders have been instrumental.
                • People-Centric Service Delivery: Modifying service delivery to be people-centric has improved accessibility and utilization of services.
                • Bridging Policy Intentions to Implementation Gaps: Efforts to bridge policy intentions with implementation gaps have ensured effective delivery of services.
                • Continuous Service Expansion: Continuous expansion of services has increased coverage and accessibility for PLHIV.
              • Impact and Potential for Future Public Health Initiatives:
                • The free ART initiative has been pivotal in bending the HIV/AIDS epidemic curve in India, demonstrating the government’s capability to deliver quality healthcare services to all.
                • The initiative’s success can serve as a model for other public health programs, with potential applications in launching nationwide initiatives such as free hepatitis C treatment to accelerate progress towards disease elimination.

What is HIV/AIDS?

  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus):
    • HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which are a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting off infections.
    • When HIV weakens the immune system, the body becomes more susceptible to infections and certain cancers.
    • Transmission:
      • HIV is transmitted through contact with certain bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
      • Common modes of transmission include unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
    • Symptoms:
      • Acute HIV infection may cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and rash. However, many people with HIV may not experience symptoms for years.
      • As the virus progresses, it can lead to more severe symptoms and opportunistic infections as the immune system becomes increasingly compromised.
    • Diagnosis and Treatment:
      • HIV infection is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of HIV antibodies or viral genetic material.
      • There is currently no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively control the virus, allowing people with HIV to live longer, healthier lives.
      • ART involves taking a combination of medications daily to suppress the virus and prevent it from multiplying in the body.
    • AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome):
      • AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection, characterized by a severely weakened immune system and the presence of opportunistic infections or cancers.
      • Without treatment, HIV infection typically progresses to AIDS over a period of several years.
      • Symptoms:
        • Symptoms of AIDS may include rapid weight loss, recurring fever, extreme fatigue, prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes, and chronic diarrhea.
        • AIDS-related opportunistic infections and cancers can cause additional symptoms and complications.
      • Diagnosis and Treatment:
        • AIDS is diagnosed based on specific criteria, including a CD4 cell count below a certain threshold and the presence of opportunistic infections or cancers.
        • While there is no cure for AIDS, prompt initiation of ART can help prevent the progression to AIDS and improve outcomes for people living with HIV.
      • Prevention:
        • Practicing safer sex by using condoms consistently and correctly.
        • Avoiding sharing needles or syringes.
        • Undergoing HIV testing and knowing one’s HIV status.
        • Using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at high risk of HIV infection.
        • Ensuring access to comprehensive sexual health education and HIV prevention services.
      • Some Facts:
        • HIV remains a significant global public health issue, with millions of lives claimed and ongoing transmission worldwide.
        • An estimated 39 million people were living with HIV by the end of 2022, with two-thirds of them in the WHO African Region.
        • In 2022, 630,000 people died from HIV-related causes, and 1.3 million people acquired HIV.
        • Global organizations like WHO, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS have strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal target of ending the HIV epidemic by 2030.
        • The goal by 2025 is for 95% of all people living with HIV to have a diagnosis, 95% of those diagnosed to be on antiretroviral treatment (ART), and 95% of those on treatment to achieve a suppressed viral load.
        • As of 2022, these percentages were 86%, 89%, and 93%, respectively.
        • Overall, 86% of all people living with HIV knew their status, 76% were receiving ART, and 71% had suppressed viral loads.

Compounding crises: On the impact of a summertime water crisis

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

According to a report based on Central Water Commission data, only 23% of the holding capacity in South India’s reservoirs is filled, which is nine percentage points lower than the rolling decadal average.

  • This indicates an impending water crisis of significant magnitude, with similarities to the 2017 crisis but with potentially worse outcomes.

Key Highlights

  • Factors Contributing to the Crisis:
    • Influence of El Niño Events:
      • The monsoons in South India are influenced by various factors, including El Niño events.
      • The ongoing El Niño event, among the strongest in recorded history, is making monsoons more erratic.
    • Increasing Global Temperatures:
      • Meteorologists have recorded 2023 as the warmest year on record, with expectations that 2024 will be worse.
      • The UK Meteorological Office predicts a 93% chance of record-breaking temperatures until 2026.
    • General Election Participation:
      • Millions in India will spend more time outdoors this summer due to the general election, exacerbating water usage and resource strain.
    • Persistent Challenges:
      • Despite improved policies and forecasting, challenges such as unplanned urban growth, groundwater over-extraction, low water reuse efficiency, insufficient community involvement, and catchment area encroachment persist.
    • Climate Change and Simultaneous Crises:
      • Climate change will impose a deadlier cost on low- and middle-income countries like India by creating simultaneous crises.
      • Weather events co-evolve differently under climate change, increasing the likelihood of concurrent crises such as droughts and disease outbreaks.
      • These compound effects worsen socio-economic conditions, particularly among marginalized groups.
    • Governance and Policy Challenges:
      • The recurrence of water crises, even after deficient rainfall, indicates a failure of governments to learn from past experiences or act upon them effectively.
      • Governments and policymakers must recognize that water crises are not solely about water availability but are also compounded by factors like climate change and governance failures.

About the Central Water Commission (CWC)

  • The Central Water Commission (CWC) is a premier technical organization in India under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, responsible for various functions related to water resources development and management.
  • Established in 1945, the CWC plays a crucial role in ensuring water security for the nation by planning, designing, and implementing schemes for water resource management.
  • Some key functions of the CWC include providing technical assistance to state governments, monitoring water resources projects, collecting hydrological data, conducting research, and promoting international cooperation in water resources development.
  • The Commission is divided into three wings:
    • Designs and Research (D&R) Wing, River Management (RM) Wing, and Water Planning and Projects (WP&P) Wing, each led by a full-time Member.
    • Additionally, there is a Human Resources Management Unit overseeing training, financial management, and administrative matters.
    • The National Water Academy in Pune is responsible for training engineers under the guidance of the Chairman.
  • CWC’s responsibilities include basin planning, project appraisal, project hydrology, dam safety, flood forecasting, river management, and resolving water-related disputes.
    • It also ensures the quality of river water, monitors flood situations, and conducts survey and investigation work for water resource projects.
    • The Commission has regional offices across India to better manage water resources and coordinate with state governments.
  • Furthermore, the CWC is involved in projects like the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) to enhance the safety and operational performance of existing dams.

Workers, not tech, should be state’s priority

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The ABPS, used in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), has garnered attention due to various challenges.

  • Despite increased budgetary allocation, challenges such as Internet connectivity, fingerprint recognition issues, and name duplication hinder efficient implementation.
  • Research indicates that 5.2 crore workers were deleted from the database in 2022-23, and 34.8% of job card holders remain ineligible for ABPS.

Key Highlights

  • Placing Workers at the Mercy of Technology:
    • Workers have been subjected to technological complexities, undermining the idea of technology benefiting them.
    • The ABPS prioritizes technology over employment security, relegating workers to secondary status.
    • The design and deployment of ABPS have placed workers as mere components of the technological program, rather than technology serving as an enabler for them.
    • Questioning State’s Approach to Technology:
      • There is a need to reconsider the state’s conception and understanding of technology and its impact on workers.
      • The emphasis on techno-solutionism raises questions about whether the state prioritizes an empowering, transparent, and efficient digital economy or simply seeks technology for its own sake.
    • Socioeconomic Objectives of Employment Guarantee Schemes:
      • Employment guarantee schemes like MGNREGS aim to provide socioeconomically deprived households with work security, facilitated by digital technology.
      • These schemes are rooted in ideals of inclusion, mitigation of inequality, and socioeconomic distress, recognized internationally for contributing to a productive, equitable, and connected society.
      • Caution Against Techno-Solutionism:
        • Overreliance on techno-solutionism in managing such schemes risks undermining their core objectives.
        • Scholarly studies demonstrate the diverse benefits of these schemes, including higher nutritional intake, empowerment of women, equality in pay, insurance substitutes, benefits to marginalized communities, and political transparency.
        • While technological interventions have the potential to serve progressive principles, they should not overshadow the core objectives of employment guarantee schemes.
      • Rural employment guarantee schemes contribute to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), directly and indirectly, highlighting their effectiveness in addressing socioeconomic challenges.
    • Need for Balanced Approach:
      • Budgetary allocations to schemes like MGNREGS must be channeled through systems free of technological maladies, while also considering non-technological rectifications.
      • The state’s conception of workers as active participants in development goals should not be overshadowed by an overzealous focus on technology.
      • In an era of increasing socioeconomic inequality and rural distress, technology can play a vital role, but the priority must always be the workers and their livelihood security.

About the Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS)

  • APBS is a unique payment system implemented by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which uses Aadhaar number as a central key for electronically channelizing the Government subsidies and benefits in the Aadhaar Enabled Bank Accounts (AEBA) of the intended beneficiaries.
  • It is a payment system based on Aadhaar numbers issued by UIDAI & IIN (Institution Identification Number) issued by NPCI.
  • APB System is used by the Government Departments and Agencies for the transfer of benefits and subsidies under Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme launched by Government of India.
  • Aadhar:
    • It is a 12 digit unique identification number that stores demographic and biometric information of the resident with photograph issued by Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on behalf of Government of India.
    • Aadhaar serves as a proof of identity and address, anywhere in India.

About the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)

  • The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) is an Indian social welfare measure that guarantees the ‘right to work’ by providing at least 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to rural households whose adult members volunteer for unskilled manual work.
  • Objectives:
    • The primary objectives of MGNREGS include enhancing livelihood security in rural areas, creating durable assets like roads and canals, providing employment within 5 km of an applicant’s residence, and ensuring minimum wages are paid.
    • Women are guaranteed one-third of the jobs under the scheme, and if work is not provided within 15 days of applying, applicants are entitled to an unemployment allowance.
  • Implementation:
    • MGNREGS is mainly implemented by Gram Panchayats (GPs) and prohibits the involvement of contractors.
    • The scheme focuses on labor-intensive tasks like infrastructure development for water harvesting, drought relief, and flood control.
    • The involvement of Gram Panchayats ensures local governance and accountability in the implementation of the scheme.
  • Funding:
    • The Central Government allocates funds for MGNREGS, with the Ministry of Rural Development specifying the wage rate for beneficiaries annually.
    • The wage rate is revised based on changes in the Consumer Price Index for Agricultural Labour (CPI-AL) to compensate for inflation.
    • States/UTs can provide wages higher than the rate set by the Central Government.

GST probe into big corporates, major MNCs needs ‘written approval’

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The Department of Revenue has issued instructions to Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) officials regarding the initiation of investigations in certain cases.

Key Highlights

  • Prior Approval Requirement:
    • CGST officials are required to obtain prior written approval from zonal Chief Commissioners before initiating investigations in cases involving big industrial houses, major multinational corporations (MNCs), and sensitive matters with national implications.
    • Approval from the Principal Commissioner is also necessary for each investigation.
    • The guidelines outline specific situations where prior written approval from zonal Chief Commissioners is mandatory, including cases involving:
      • Big industrial houses and major MNCs.
      • Matters before the GST Council.
      • Matters seeking to levy tax or duty on any sector, commodity, or service for the first time in Central excise or GST.
    • There is ambiguity among tax experts regarding the definition of ‘big industrial house’ and major MNCs under these guidelines.
    • Implications of the Directive:
      • The directive aims to maintain ease of doing business while ensuring proper investigation procedures in cases involving significant entities and sensitive matters.
    • Collection of Details and Study of Implications:
      • The guidelines stipulate that CGST field formations must collect details on prevalent trade practices and transaction nature from stakeholders in all categories of cases, including sensitive matters or those with national implications.
      • It is emphasized that the implications and impact of such matters should be thoroughly studied to justify the initiation of investigation and subsequent action.
    • Uniform Procedure for Enforcement Activities:
      • The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) highlighted the necessity for CGST field formations to adopt a uniform procedure for enforcement activities, particularly concerning regular taxpayers, while considering aspects related to the ease of doing business.

About the Goods and Services Tax and GST Council

  • The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a comprehensive, multistage, destination-based tax system implemented in India to replace multiple indirect taxes.
  • Under the GST regime, goods and services are categorized into five different tax slabs: 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%.
    • Some items, such as essential goods and services, attract lower rates, while luxury items and sin goods may be taxed at higher rates.
  • The tax is imposed at each stage of the production process but is refunded to all parties except the final consumer.
  • The GST came into effect on July 1, 2017, through the One Hundred and First Amendment to the Indian Constitution, aiming to simplify the tax structure, boost compliance, and promote ease of doing business.
  • Dual Model: GST operates under a dual model, with both central and state components. It comprises:
    • Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST), levied by the central government.
    • State Goods and Services Tax (SGST), levied by the state governments.
    • Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST), applicable to inter-state transactions and collected by the central government.
  • GST Network (GSTN): GSTN is the IT backbone of the GST regime, providing a common platform for registration, filing returns, and other compliance activities.
  • GST Council:
    • The GST Council is a constitutional body formed under Article 279A of the Constitution of India.
    • It comprises the following members:
      • Union Finance Minister (Chairperson)
      • Union Minister of State in charge of Revenue or Finance
      • Finance Ministers of the states or Union territories (UTs) with legislatures
    • The GST Council, plays a pivotal role in making recommendations on issues related to GST implementation, including tax rates, exemptions, thresholds, and administrative procedures.
    • The GST Council has introduced various measures like e-invoicing, rate rationalization, and simplification of GST returns to streamline tax processes and promote transparency.
    • Additionally, the Council has approved trade facilitation measures, amendments in CGST Rules, and the creation of the National Bench of the Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the GST system in India.

A record 60 traditional products from across India granted GI tag

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : The Hindu

Over 60 products from various regions of India, including the renowned Banaras Thandai, have been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

  • This marks the largest number of GI tags granted at once.

Key Highlights

  • Growing Interest in GI Tags:
    • More states are actively pursuing GI tags for their traditional and historic products, indicating a growing interest and recognition of the importance of geographical indications in protecting and promoting indigenous goods.
  • GI Tags for Assamese Crafts:
    • Assam has secured GI tags for six traditional crafts, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the state.
    • These crafts include Asharikandi terracotta craft, PaniMeteka craft, Sarthebari metal craft, Jaapi (bamboo headgear), Mishing handloom products, and the Bihu dhol.
    • Thirteen other products from Assam have received GI tags, including the Bodo Dokhona (traditional attire of Bodo women) and Bodo Eri silk, known for its association with peace and non-violence. Other items include Bodo Jwmgra (traditional scarf), Bodo Gamsa (traditional dress of Bodo men), Bodo Thorkha (a musical instrument), and Bodo Sifung (a long flute).
  • Banaras Thandai and Other Products Granted GI Tags:
    • The renowned Banaras Thandai, a nutritious beverage made by blending milk with a mix of nuts, seeds, and spices, has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
    • Traditionally, Banaras Thandai shops in areas like Gaudaulia Chowk, Lahurabir, and Pakka Mahal attract large crowds in the heart of the city.
    • The drink has historical significance, originally introduced as an offering to the Shri Kashi Vishwanath deity during Mahashivaratri, RangbhariEkadasi, and Holi festivals.
    • Additionally, other products such as Banaras Tabla, Banaras Shehnai, Banaras Lal Bharwamirch, and Banaras Lal Peda have also received GI tags in the region.
  • GI Tags for Tripura and Meghalaya Products:
    • In the Tripura region, two products have secured GI tags.
      • The Pachra-Rignai, a traditional dress worn on special occasions, and the MatabariPeda, a sweet preparation, have been recognized.
    • Meghalaya has also earned GI tags for its products.
      • The Meghalaya Garo Textile weaving, associated with socio-cultural and religious rituals, along with Meghalaya Lyrnai Pottery and Meghalaya Chubitchi, have been granted GI tags.
    • Significance of Geographical Indication:
      • The Geographical Indication (GI) tag is conferred upon products with a specific geographical origin and unique characteristics linked to that location.
      • India has awarded around 635 products with GI tags to date, with Darjeeling tea receiving the first GI tag in the country two decades ago.

About the Geographical Indication (GI) tag

  • A Geographical Indication (GI) tag in India is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are essentially attributable to that origin.
  • GI tags are primarily granted to agricultural, natural, and manufactured handicrafts from a definite geographical territory.
  • The GI tag ensures that only authorized users registered for that specific product are allowed to use the popular product name.
  • In India, the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 governs the registration and protection of GI tags.
    • This Act came into force in September 2003 and provides legal protection to products, prevents unauthorized use of GI tag products, assures consumers of product quality and authenticity, and promotes the economic prosperity of producers by enhancing demand for GI tag goods both nationally and internationally.
    • The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks is responsible for administering the registration and protection of GIs in India.
    • Geographical Indications are covered as a component of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention and the TRIPS Agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO).