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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15/01/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS - 15/01/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15/01/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15/01/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15/01/2024

India’s oldest living city found in Vadnagar

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : TH

A collaborative study has unearthed compelling evidence suggesting cultural continuity in Vadnagar, the native village of the Prime Minister of India.

  • The study was conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, in conjunction with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Deccan College.
  • The study challenges the notion of a “Dark Age” following the collapse of the Harappan civilization.

Key Highlights

  • According to a press release issued by IIT Kharagpur, extensive archaeological excavations at Vadnagar have revealed a human settlement dating back to 800 BCE, contemporaneous with the late-Vedic/pre-Buddhist Mahajanapadas or oligarchic republics.
  • The findings imply that Vadnagar not only survived the Harappan collapse but thrived as a settlement during a significant historical period.
  • The study also proposes a link between climatic changes, such as fluctuations in rainfall and droughts, and the rise and fall of different kingdoms over a 3,000-year period.
  • It suggests that recurrent invasions of India by Central Asian warriors may have been influenced by severe climatic shifts.
  • The research, documented in a paper titled “Climate, human settlement, and migration in South Asia from early historic to medieval period: evidence from new archaeological excavation at Vadnagar, Western India,” has been published in the prestigious Elsevier journal Quaternary Science Reviews.
  • While the Archaeological Survey of India spearheaded the excavation efforts, the study received funding from the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums (Government of Gujarat), which is tasked with establishing India’s first experiential digital museum in Vadnagar.
  • Vadnagar Unveiled: A Multicultural and Multireligious Treasure Trove
    • Archaeologists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have unearthed a rich tapestry of history in Vadnagar, a city that has stood as a multicultural and multireligious settlement throughout the ages.
    • Vadnagar’s historical significance lies in its diverse cultural and religious heritage, encompassing Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, and Islamic influences.
    • This unique blend is evident in the layers of history uncovered during the excavation.
    • Archaeological Discoveries:
      • The discovery of one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries has also been reported, shedding light on Vadnagar’s ancient roots.
      • The excavation yielded a treasure trove of artifacts, including characteristic archaeological items, potteries, and intricately designed bangles.
      • Notably, coin molds from the Indo-Greek rule featuring the likeness of Greek king Appollodatus were also found.
    • Historical Timeline:
      • The excavation spans various historical periods, from the Mauryan era to the Indo-Greek, Indo-Scythian, Hindu-Solankis, Sultanate-Mughal, and Gaekwad-British colonial rule.
      • This continuity challenges the conventional notion of a “Dark Age” between the collapse of the Indus Valley Civilization and the emergence of the Iron Age.
    • Oldest Living City:
      • Anindya Sarkar of IIT Kharagpur, the lead author of the paper, asserts that Vadnagar may be the oldest living city within a single fortification discovered in India.
      • Unpublished radiocarbon dates suggest a potential age of 1400 BCE, contemporaneous with the late phase of the post-urban Harappan period.
      • This also challenges the notion of a Dark Age, implying a cultural continuity in India for the past 5500 years.

Why is aviation safety under scrutiny?

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

Two recent aviation incidents involving Boeing aircraft have prompted heightened concerns about air safety.

  • The first incident occurred on January 2, 2024, involving a Japan Airlines Airbus A350-900 colliding with a Japan Coast Guard De Havilland Canada Dash 8, resulting in fatalities.
  • The second incident on January 5 involved an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 experiencing a mid-air depressurization due to a blown-out window panel ‘door plug.’
    • No major injuries were reported in the second incident.

Key Highlights

  • Renewed Attention on Boeing 737 MAX:
    • These incidents have refocused attention on the troubled flight safety record of the Boeing 737 MAX, raising questions about quality control and manufacturing processes.
    • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States announced additional oversight on Boeing, including an evaluation of compliance with approved quality procedures and an assessment of safety risks and quality oversight.
    • An Emergency Airworthiness Directive has grounded every Boeing 737 MAX 9 with a plug door until a thorough review ensures their safe return to operation.
    • Airlines worldwide, owning approximately 171 affected jets, will be required to inspect each aircraft for up to eight hours as per the directive.
  • Focus on Door Plug and Cabin Pressure System:
    • The specific focus of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation is on the cabin pressure control system.
    • The door plug, a component allowing an additional emergency exit, became a critical element in the Alaska incident, leading to damage to adjacent seats and the door plug being found in a Portland neighbourhood.
  • Global Impact and Additional Findings:
    • Global aviation authorities, including India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation, are actively involved in ensuring safety.
    • Loose hardware issues have been reported by Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, with instances of damaged seat frames and missing washers discovered during maintenance inspections in India.
    • Boeing had issued a directive in December 2023, urging worldwide 737 MAX operators to conduct checks following the discovery of a loose bolt in the rudder control system of an undisclosed airline.
    • This directive affected airlines globally, including Indian operators like Air India Express, Akasa, and Spicejet.
  • JAL Airbus Incident:
    • The recent incident involving a Japan Airlines (JAL) Airbus A350-900, which collided with a Japan Coast Guard aircraft and caught fire, marked the first complete hull loss of an A350.
    • Despite the severity of the incident, all 367 passengers and 12 crew members survived, emphasizing the effectiveness of safety measures and technological advancements.
  • Key Factors in Passenger Survivability:
    • Crew Training:
      • The incident underscored the significance of rigorous crew training in emergency procedures.
      • With the aircraft’s public announcement system malfunctioning, cabin crew members had to rely on megaphones and voice commands to conduct the evacuation successfully.
    • Response Time of Emergency Teams:
      • The quick response time of ground fire and rescue teams played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of passengers.
      • The efficiency of emergency services is a critical factor in minimizing the impact of aviation incidents.
    • Advances in Aircraft Manufacturing Technology:
      • Newer aircraft, such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 and 777, employ advanced materials like carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), which offer a combination of durability, strength, and low weight.
      • Over half of the A350’s structure is composed of composites.
      • The incident serves as a real-world test for these materials, providing valuable insights for investigators and manufacturers.
    • Computer Simulation Models:
      • Boeing’s 787 program, for instance, incorporates computer simulation models to study the behavior of composite materials in extreme situations like fires or crashes.
      • However, structural experts remain divided on their efficacy.
      • The JAL incident will likely contribute to a better understanding of how composite materials respond in real-world scenarios.
    • FAA Fire Tests:
      • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conducted fire tests in 2007, demonstrating that plastic composites, like those used in modern aircraft, withstand fire better than metal.
      • Boeing issued guidelines to airport firefighting departments, including considerations for toxicity.
      • The JAL incident will provide additional insights into the practical application of these guidelines.
    • Historical Context – Manchester Accident (1985):
      • British Airtours Boeing 737 accident at Manchester airport in 1985 led to crucial recommendations, influencing cabin design, increasing space for overwing exit rows, improving signage, and changing cabin materials to reduce the risk of poisonous fumes.
      • The Manchester accident spurred research studies into passenger behavior during emergencies.
      • The findings informed major aircraft manufacturers on the best configurations to facilitate rapid evacuations.
      • The incident contributed to a deeper understanding of passenger reactions, leading to improvements in safety protocols.
    • Current Regulatory Standards:
      • The present regulatory standards mandate new aircraft types to ensure the successful evacuation of all passengers within 90 seconds or less, using only half of the exits.
      • The cabin crew plays a crucial role, with research emphasizing the impact of clear commands in facilitating swift evacuations.
      • The goal is to maximize the speed at which people exit the aircraft.
      • The importance of airport rescue and firefighting teams is also emphasized, with a two-minute response time expectation to reach any location on the airport.
        • Their role is critical in clearing and protecting exits, as well as combating fires during emergencies.
      • JAL Incident and Lessons Learned:
        • The recent Japan Airlines (JAL) fire and evacuation benefited from lessons learned over the years.
        • Japan Airlines’ commitment to safety and the efficient management of the emergency by the Haneda crew are significant.
        • Passenger compliance with crew instructions, such as refraining from bringing luggage during evacuation, played a crucial role.
        • The aircraft’s performance, particularly the Airbus A350’s composite structure, is also commendable.
          • Despite eventual intense burning, the composite body effectively protected those on board.
          • The composite structure demonstrated resilience against ‘burn through,’ and the interior did not produce poisonous fumes, contrasting with the Manchester fire incident.
        • Comprehensive Crew Training at Japan Airlines:
          • An official spokesperson from Japan Airlines emphasizes the critical importance of crew training in ensuring the safety and preparedness of the airline’s staff.
          • The training encompasses various aspects, including emergency measures, daily safety tasks, and familiarity with different types of equipment.
          • The spokesperson highlights the meticulous nature of the training, covering written confirmation of knowledge, case studies, and joint exercises for operating crew members.
          • Cabin crew members undergo regular and extensive training, including emergency evacuation scenarios, door training for different equipment types in both land and sea scenarios, and comprehensive exercises covering emergencies to evacuation procedures.
          • The training is conducted annually to keep cabin crew members well-prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
        • Flight Deck Crew (Pilots) Training:
          • Even flight deck crew, including pilots, undergo emergency evacuation training that covers general rescue procedures, aviation security, and instructions for door and emergency equipment usage specific to each aircraft type.
          • Aircraft type transition training and regular rescue training are also part of the ongoing training regimen for flight deck crew.
        • Scenario-Based Training:
          • The spokesperson highlights the inclusion of case studies in the training, drawing from past incidents to enhance the crew’s understanding and response to emergencies.
          • The scenarios cover various situations, such as sudden emergencies, on-land and sea scenarios, and anticipated scenarios.
          • These case studies guide crew members through the entire process, from the occurrence of an emergency to evacuation and resolution.
        • Mandatory Attendance for Operating Crew:
          • To ensure comprehensive training coverage, all operating crew members are mandated to attend co-pilot promotion training, type transition training, and regular rescue training.
          • After the initial co-pilot promotion training, individuals are assigned a reference month where attending the annual regular rescue training program becomes mandatory.
        • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Directives on Safety Improvements:
          • The Flight Safety Foundation shares FAA directives highlighting significant safety improvements over the years:
            • FAA rule requires seat cushions to comply with a more stringent flammability test standard, providing up to a minute more of additional time for evacuation.
            • Floor Proximity Emergency Escape Path Marking:Introduced to improve evacuation rates by 20% in situations with significant cabin smoke.
            • Lavatory Smoke Detectors (1986) and Lavatory Fire Extinguishers (1987):Automatic devices enhancing safety in lavatories.
            • FAA requirement for halon extinguishers on board, complementing other required extinguishers.
            • Cargo Compartment Liners:Introduction of liners meeting burn-through resistance fire test criteria for compartment ceiling and wall liners.
            • Introduction of materials for large surface area panels to delay flash fires, allowing more time for evacuation.Standards included reduced heat release and smoke emissions tests.
            • FAA regulations mandated seats to comply with the 16g dynamic standard, enhancing passenger safety during impacts.
            • Implementation of specific minimum standards for passageways from the aisle to Type III exits (over-wing).Tests showed a nearly 14% faster evacuation rate compared to previous standards.
            • Cargo Compartment Fire Detection/Suppression (Since 2001):Mandatory installation of fire detection and suppression systems in passenger aircraft cargo compartments.
            • Changes to Thermal/Acoustic Insulation (Since 1999):Introduction of new flame propagation standards and burn-through resistance tests for thermal/acoustic insulation.
          • Airbus Perspective on Certification and Safety:
            • Aircraft certification requirements and processes are considered among the most stringent in any industry.
            • Airbus emphasizes the responsibility of the aircraft manufacturer to demonstrate compliance with safety requirements.
            • The 90-second evacuation rule applies universally, regardless of fuselage material.

Why has South Africa dragged Israel to the ICJ?

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) at The Hague recently witnessed a two-day proceeding between South Africa and Israel, drawing global attention.

  • South Africa, invoking the 1948 Genocide Convention, accused Israel of committing genocide during its military campaign in Gaza.
  • The ICJ, as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, has jurisdiction over cases involving states, and both South Africa and Israel are signatories to the Genocide Convention.

Key Highlights

  • ICJ Jurisdiction:
    • The ICJ’s jurisdiction is based on its role as the principal UN judicial organ, with only states being parties in cases before the Court.
    • The Genocide Convention of 1948, invoked by South Africa, is the legal basis for the proceedings.
    • The ICJ can issue provisional measures, interim rulings aimed at preventing irreparable harm, even though the main case may take years for disposal.
  • South Africa’s Allegations:
    • In its 84-page filing, South Africa sought various provisional measures, including the immediate suspension of Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
    • The request aims to prevent acts within the scope of the Genocide Convention against the Palestinian people.
    • A request for provisional measures in this case will not involve a determination on whether a genocide has taken place, but it is enough for South Africa to demonstrate an intent to commit genocide by Isreal.
  • Provisional measures sought by South Africa include the suspension of Israel’s military operations and a directive to refrain from acts covered by the Genocide Convention against the Palestinian people.
    • These measures are aimed at preventing further harm while the main case is pending before the ICJ.
  • Israel, in response to the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, has rebutted the genocide allegations, emphasizing a lack of genocidal intent in its military actions.
  • Previous Cases:
    • This is the second instance where two countries, not directly involved in a dispute, have faced off at the ICJ over allegations of genocide.
    • In 2019, the Gambia approached the ICJ against Myanmar for alleged genocide against the Rohingya community.
  • The Genocide Convention of 1948, the inaugural human rights treaty adopted by the UN General Assembly, serves as the foundation for South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
    • Envisioned as a response to prevent future atrocities like the Holocaust, the Convention, particularly Article II, defines genocide as acts targeting national, racial, ethnic, or religious groups.
    • South Africa alleges that Israel’s actions in Gaza, including impeding humanitarian assistance, cutting off essential resources, and neglecting the needs of Palestinians, amount to genocide.
  • South Africa’s Argument:
    • South Africa’s legal team builds its case on Article II of the Genocide Convention, citing acts such as killing, causing serious bodily and mental harm, and intentionally inflicting conditions of life leading to the physical destruction of a group, in whole or in part.
    • The accusation extends to causing hunger, dehydration, and starvation in Gaza.
    • South Africa contends that Israel’s actions have resulted in a death toll of 23,000, with 70% being women and children, while also accusing Israel of turning hospitals into battlegrounds.
    • South Africa’s lawyers rely on statements and remarks attributed to Israeli officials and military leaders to argue the inference of genocidal intent.
    • They quote extensively from international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and the International Committee of the Red Cross, highlighting the grave danger faced by civilians in Gaza and the collapse of the healthcare system.
    • The lawyers emphasize the continuous bombardment by the Israel Defence Forces, asserting that “nowhere is safe in Gaza.”
    • The legal team contextualizes the current military operations within the historical framework, referencing the ‘Nakba’ of 1948, 75 years of ‘apartheid,’ 56 years of occupation, and 16 years of siege.
    • The Nakba, translating to ‘catastrophe’ in Arabic, denotes the mass displacement of Palestinians during the Arab-Israeli war.
    • South Africa argues that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reference to the Biblical character Amalek serves as evidence of “genocidal intent,” as it is allegedly used to justify the killing of civilians in Gaza.
    • According to the Hebrew Bible, the Israelites are obligated to eliminate Amalekites.
  • Israel’s Counterarguments:
    • In response to South Africa’s accusations of genocide, Israel, in its presentation on January 12, rejected any genocidal intent behind its military campaign in Gaza.
    • It asserted that its actions were legitimate, grounded in international law norms, and justified under the right to self-defense.
    • Israel emphasized that its operations targeted Hamas and its allied groups to protect its people, not to harm them.
    • The Israeli representative refuted the notion of genocidal intent, arguing that South Africa had taken routine rhetoric out of context.
    • Israel accused South Africa of relying on casualty statistics provided by Hamas and placed blame on Hamas for using civilians as human shields.
    • Israel maintained that its military actions aimed at removing Hamas’ capacity to threaten Israel did not indicate genocidal intent.
    • It argued that unintended civilian casualties during the pursuit of lawful military objectives should not be equated with genocide.
    • Israel contended that South Africa’s portrayal twisted routine rhetoric and overlooked the complexity of its operations in a conflict it did not initiate.
  • Provisional Measures and Enforcement:
    • A ruling on whether to issue provisional measures is anticipated within weeks.
    • The ICJ lacks enforcement mechanisms for its orders, relying on the UN Security Council, where the veto power of permanent members could play a crucial role.
    • Israel may be counting on U.S. support to potentially veto any attempt to enforce an adverse ruling.
    • The outcome of this process will significantly impact the trajectory of the case and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Regulating India’s online gaming industry

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

Market failures, including issues like monopolies, externalities, and information asymmetries, not only diminish economic value but also erode societal well-being and trust.

  • In addressing these challenges, government regulatory intervention becomes crucial, with the measure of adequacy being whether the benefits outweigh the potential costs.
  • This intervention is particularly important in the context of digital markets where online services play a central role in people’s lives.

Key Highlights

  • Digital Market Landscape:
    • India, with 692 million Internet users, boasts the world’s second-largest user base and ranks eighth globally in time spent on mobile apps.
    • The average daily mobile app usage has surged to 4.9 hours, with a notable 82% dedicated to media and entertainment, half of which is social media engagement.
    • While these trends offer significant benefits, they also pose new concerns, such as the rise of AI-generated deep fake videos blurring the lines between reality and simulation.
    • The intricate interplay of data and algorithms adds complexity to market failures in online services.
  • Government Response and Digital Regulation:
    • In response to these challenges, the government is proposing new forms of digital regulation.
    • The focus is on safeguarding public interest and trust, especially given the evolving characteristics and complexities of market failures in online services.
    • A notable sector experiencing market failure without adequate regulation is online gaming, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in specific digital domains.
    • The absence of adequate regulatory frameworks in online gaming emphasizes the importance of government intervention to address emerging issues and ensure the well-being and trust of users.
  • Online Gaming Growth and Potential:
    • The online gaming industry in India, largely a home-grown startup ecosystem, is experiencing robust growth at a 27% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR).
    • The sector’s significant potential is estimated to contribute up to $300 billion to India’s GDP by 2026-27, driven by advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • Pitfalls and Concerns:
    • The rapid growth of online gaming has given rise to several pitfalls, including concerns related to addiction, mental health, financial frauds, privacy, and data security.
    • Issues like money laundering and national security threats have become realities, exacerbated by the proliferation of illegal offshore gambling and betting markets.
    • The volume of digital transactions in these markets provides fertile ground for financial malpractices.
    • The challenges in the online gaming industry are symptomatic of a larger problem of market failure, primarily stemming from insufficient regulation.
    • The absence of a mechanism to differentiate between legitimate gaming platforms and illegal gambling/betting sites, coupled with the lack of a specialized regulatory authority, has led to an alarming increase in illegal operators.
    • The illegal offshore gambling and betting market, receiving $100 billion annually in deposits from India, has grown at a rate of 20% over the past three years, resulting in substantial losses to the exchequer.
    • Attempts by some State governments to ban online gaming face enforcement challenges due to the cross-border nature of the Internet.
    • Such bans inadvertently lead to the replacement of legitimate, regulated platforms with unregulated and potentially harmful ones.
  • Delayed Regulations and Protective Measures:
    • While the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, represented a commendable step towards oversight, the delayed notification of Self-Regulatory Bodies has hindered progress.
    • To safeguard the 373 million gamers in India and address potential risks, there is an urgent need for strict regulation in the sector.
  • Global Perspectives on Online Gaming Regulation
    • UK’s Centralized Regulatory Model:
      • The United Kingdom serves as an exemplary model with its centralized government regulator overseeing the online gaming sector.
      • The regulator publishes quarterly reports on the impact of regulations, showcasing significant multi-million-pound fines imposed on operators violating player protection requirements since 2017.
      • This strict enforcement, along with targeted harm reduction efforts from 2018 to 2022, has contributed to a decline in disordered gaming and medium-to-low risk gaming behavior.
    • Effectiveness of Regulation in the UK:
      • The quarterly reports from the UK regulator highlight the tangible impacts of regulatory measures, emphasizing the efficacy of stringent enforcement and harm reduction initiatives.
      • The decline in problematic gaming behaviors underscores the positive outcomes of a well-regulated online gaming environment.
    • Unregulated Markets and the Shadow Economy:
      • Contrasting the UK model, an unregulated market, as seen in the Indian online gaming industry, may not deliver optimal benefits to society.
      • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) suggests that a combination of high taxes and a weak, discretionary approach to regulatory enforcement creates fertile ground for the proliferation of a shadow economy.
      • The current environment in the Indian online gaming industry reflects elements of this shadow economy.
    • Urgent Need for Strict Regulatory Framework:
      • The IMF’s perspective underscores the urgency of establishing a strict regulatory framework in the Indian online gaming sector.
      • Beyond safeguarding digital citizens and national interests, such regulation is seen as essential for ensuring the responsible growth of the industry.
      • The call for stringent oversight aligns with global best practices, emphasizing the need for India to adopt a comprehensive and proactive approach to online gaming regulation.

About the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021

  • The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, introduced by the Indian government, aim to regulate digital intermediaries and online platforms to ensure accountability, transparency, and responsible content dissemination.
  • Key provisions include:
    • Definition of Intermediaries:
      • The rules define digital intermediaries, encompassing social media platforms, messaging services, search engines, and online marketplaces, establishing them as entities facilitating communication and commerce.
    • Grievance Redressal Mechanism:
      • Platforms with a significant user base must appoint a Chief Compliance Officer, a Nodal Contact Person, and a Resident Grievance Officer.
      • These individuals are responsible for addressing user complaints and ensuring swift resolution.
    • Content Regulation and Removal:
      • The rules outline a framework for the identification and removal of prohibited content, including content affecting the sovereignty and integrity of India, public order, and morality.
      • Platforms are required to deploy automated tools and mechanisms for content moderation.
    • Traceability of Originator of Information:
      • For messaging services, the rules mandate the implementation of measures to trace the origin of problematic content.
      • This is particularly aimed at addressing concerns related to misinformation and unlawful activities.
    • Self-Regulation and Oversight:
      • Digital media entities and over-the-top (OTT) platforms are encouraged to form self-regulatory bodies.
      • However, the rules also empower the government to step in if self-regulation fails, outlining a mechanism for the oversight of digital news media.
    • Information on Originating Content:
      • Platforms are required to provide information about the origin of flagged content and disclose the first originator of the content if required by law enforcement agencies.
    • Compliance Reports:
      • Intermediaries must submit periodic compliance reports to the government, outlining their adherence to the rules and detailing actions taken to address content-related issues.

Status of medical care on India’s trains

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

With over 2.3 crore passengers daily, Indian Railways handles a population equivalent to twice the projected population of Uttarakhand state in 2022.

  • Alongside concerns about accident-related safety, the Balasore train accident in June 2023 highlighted the importance of addressing medical emergencies within the vast passenger network.

Key Highlights

  • Scope of Medical Emergencies:
    • The Katpadi Junction railway station in Tamil Nadu reported 1,076 medical emergencies in 2017, ranging from trauma-related incidents to ailments like fever and life-threatening conditions such as low blood sugar.
    • Nearly 10% of emergencies required urgent, life-saving intervention, emphasizing the need for comprehensive medical care provision.
    • The surge in non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension, coupled with an increase in deaths due to heart attacks, underscores the significance of the Indian Railways being prepared to handle diverse medical emergencies.
  • Evolution of Medical Care Provision:
    • Medical care provision in Indian Railways has evolved beyond accident-related emergencies.
    • In 1995, a ‘Special first aid box’ was introduced in certain trains, followed by an improved ‘Augmented first aid box.’
    • In 1996, a pilot project stationed medical teams on long-distance trains, but the service was later discontinued due to low demand.
    • Instead, a 10% discount incentive for doctors providing on-train medical services was introduced.
  • Challenges and the Need for Comprehensive Solutions:
    • The history of medical care provision in Indian Railways reveals challenges in addressing the diverse spectrum of medical emergencies.
    • While initiatives have been taken, the system faces hurdles in ensuring adequate resources and preparedness for critical cases during train journeys.
    • Addressing this aspect of passenger safety is crucial for the Railways to fulfill its responsibility towards passenger health and well-being.
    • The unfortunate death of Netrapal Singh, Chief Legal Assistant of Railways, due to a heart attack while travelling in 2004, revealed inadequacies in the medical provisions of Indian Railways.
    • A petition filed in the Rajasthan High Court gained momentum after Singh’s demise, prompting a legal response to enhance medical care in trains and railway stations.
  • Court Intervention and Directives:
    • In 2005, the Rajasthan High Court identified a lack of awareness as the reason for the underutilization of medical teams during the pilot phase.
    • The Court directed Indian Railways to reserve four berths in long-distance trains for medical care and have a medical team on trains covering distances exceeding 500 km.
    • It also mandated proper advertising of this medical facility in all train compartments and on platforms.
    • Indian Railways appealed this order in 2006 in the Supreme Court, citing failed pilot initiatives such as chemist stalls at stations and reserved berths for medical care.
    • The Railways informed the apex court about the challenges and costs associated with deboarding critically ill patients.
    • In 2017, the Supreme Court directed the Railways to form a committee with experts from AIIMS to recommend further measures.
  • Committee Recommendations and Reforms:
    • Based on the Supreme Court’s order and the committee’s recommendations, Indian Railways decided to modify the contents of first aid boxes, making them available at all railway stations and passenger-carrying trains.
    • The Railways mandated first-aid training for staff upon joining and every three years thereafter.
    • The committee suggested a regular review of service utilization every three years, emphasizing an ongoing commitment to improving medical care provisions within the railway system.
    • In 2018, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Railways assured the Lok Sabha that all recommendations from the AIIMS expert committee on medical care in trains had been implemented.
    • The Railways also introduced an integrated helpline number (139) in 2021 for all railway-related queries, including medical assistance.
    • However, in February 2023, the Union Minister of Railways stated in the Lok Sabha that deploying a doctor at every railway station was deemed unnecessary, causing confusion.
    • Despite official claims, passengers continued to express dissatisfaction with medical services on trains on platforms like Twitter.
  • Real-Life Incident Exposes Gaps:
    • In December 23, 2023, during a journey from Delhi to Dehradun, one of the passengers experienced a medical emergency on a Vande Bharat express.
    • Train staff sought a doctor’s assistance for a 60-year-old passenger showing signs of a possible heart attack.
    • The emergency kit on the train was found to be inadequate, lacking essential items like a blood pressure monitor, a glucometer, and containing aspirin near expiry.
    • Further inspection revealed numerous inadequacies, suggesting the train was using an outdated medical kit from 1995 instead of the updated 88-item list introduced in 2017.
    • Despite official claims of implementing recommendations, instances like the mentioned incident highlight persistent shortcomings in the medical care provisions within Indian Railways.
    • Passenger complaints on social media platforms continue to raise concerns about the effectiveness and adequacy of emergency medical services on trains.
  • Critical Evaluation of Existing Lists:
    • The current state of medical care in Indian Railways, as per K.P.P. Abhilash, head of emergency medicine at CMC Vellore, reveals shortcomings even in the 2017 list recommended by the AIIMS expert committee.
    • Drawing from cases recorded at the emergency care center in Katpadi Railway station, Dr.Abhilash and his team identified additional essential medical items not present in the existing lists.
    • This includes personal protective equipment for care providers and a pulse oximeter.
  • The need to incorporate recent advancements in point-of-care diagnostics into railway medical provisions is very important.
    • Portable ECG devices and rapid diagnostic kits, according to Jain, can play a crucial role in early identification and treatment of heart attacks.
  • Immediate Steps for Improvement:
    • The priority for Indian Railways is to ensure the implementation of the updated 88-item list recommended by the AIIMS expert committee across all trains.
    • It is crucial to raise awareness among passengers regarding the availability of medical services.
    • Periodic inspections are deemed necessary to uphold the quality of care provided.
    • Additionally, installing a system to capture data on healthcare needs during train travel can inform policy decisions and contribute to a more responsive and effective healthcare system within the railways.

Rising sea, shrinking sands erode vibrancy of Ganga SagarMela

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : TH

The annual religious congregation, Ganga SagarMela, is facing a significant challenge due to the rising sea level and erosion affecting the beach in front of the Kapil Muni temple on Sagar Island.

  • The erosion has become a concern for the West Bengal government, which is actively seeking ‘National Fair’ status for the event.
  • The erosion has led to about one km of the beach being covered with mud, posing challenges for the thousands of pilgrims participating in the Mela.

Key Highlights

  • Impact on Pilgrims and Management Efforts:
    • As pilgrims gather for the annual dip on Makar Sankranti, the erosion has forced the administration to divert pilgrims to alternative beaches on the island, away from the temple.
    • Warning signs have been erected on the affected beach area.
    • The West Bengal government ministers, including Irrigation Minister expressed helplessness, stating that fighting nature’s forces was impossible.
    • Despite the erosion challenges, authorities reassured pilgrims that they would not face significant issues during the holy dip.
  • Government’s Appeal for ‘National Fair’ Status:
    • The West Bengal government is actively seeking ‘National Fair’ status for the Ganga SagarMela, highlighting the erosion issue as a critical concern.
    • The erosion and beach degradation have become visible just before the auspicious holy dip on Makar Sankranti, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the environmental impact on the religious congregation.
  • The erosion challenges highlight the need for comprehensive strategies to manage the environmental impact on the Ganga SagarMela.
  • Tetrapods Installed to Combat Erosion:
    • The West Bengal government has deployed tetrapods, a type of wave-dissipating concrete block, along the Ganga Sagar beach to counter erosion.
    • The effectiveness of tetrapods in curbing sea erosion will be assessed after the monsoon season, as stated by the Irrigation Minister.
    • The government has invested around ₹25 crore for dredging the Sagar Island, a critical measure to address erosion issues impacting the Ganga SagarMela.
  • The rising sea level poses a threat to the Kapil Muni temple, with locals and experts noting the submersion of earlier temples under the sea.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the impact of human interventions, including construction violating coastal regulation zones, contributing to increased vulnerability to waves.
  • Environmental Impact and Violation of Coastal Regulation:
    • Experts point out the consequences of altering the natural landscape, clearing vegetation, and flattening beaches for Mela ground extensions.
    • Human interventions are identified as significant contributors to the heightened attacks of waves.
    • Construction on Sagar Island is reported to violate coastal regulation zones, raising environmental concerns.
    • The lack of sediment influx from the Ganga Meghna Brahmaputra river system is identified as a factor contributing to land loss in the Sundarbans.

Note: Ganga SagarMela is an annual religious and cultural festival held at the Sagar Island in the Ganges Delta, where the Ganges River meets the Bay of Bengal. It is one of the largest gatherings of pilgrims in India, attracting devotees and tourists from various parts of the country.

About Sagar Island

  • Sagar Island, also known as Sagardwip, is a large island situated in the Ganges Delta, where the Ganges River converges with the Bay of Bengal.
  • It is located in the South 24 Parganas district of the Indian state of West Bengal.
  • The island is formed by the river sediments deposited by the Ganges and its distributaries.

Understanding Erosion

  • Erosion is a natural process that involves the removal and transport of rock, soil, or sediment from one location to another, often facilitated by natural agents like water, wind, or ice.
  • This geological phenomenon plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth’s surface over long periods.
  • Agents of Erosion:
    • Water Erosion: Running water, in the form of rivers, streams, and rainfall, is a significant agent of erosion. It can wear away soil and rock particles and transport them downstream.
    • Wind Erosion: Wind can lift and carry loose particles, such as sand and dust, from one place to another. Wind erosion is common in arid and dry regions.
    • Glacial Erosion: Glaciers, large masses of ice, can erode landscapes as they move. They carve out valleys, transport rocks, and reshape the terrain.
  • Types of Erosion:
    • Sheet Erosion: Thin layers of soil are gradually removed uniformly from a large area, often due to rainfall.
    • Rill Erosion: Small channels or grooves are formed in the soil by the concentrated flow of water.
    • Gully Erosion: More significant channels or gullies are formed, indicating more severe soil loss.
    • Bank Erosion: The wearing away of riverbanks due to the flow of water.
  • Factors Influencing Erosion:
    • Slope: Steeper slopes generally experience more erosion than gentle slopes.
    • Vegetation: Plants and trees help anchor the soil, reducing erosion. Deforestation or loss of vegetation can increase erosion.
    • Climate: Rainfall and wind intensity play a crucial role. Regions with heavy rainfall or strong winds are more prone to erosion.
  • Impact of Erosion:
    • Loss of Soil Fertility: Erosion can remove the nutrient-rich topsoil, negatively impacting agricultural productivity.
    • Landscape Changes: Erosion shapes landscapes, forming valleys, riverbanks, and sediment deposits.
    • Water Quality: Erosion can contribute to sedimentation in water bodies, affecting water quality.
    • Land Degradation: Severe erosion can lead to land degradation, making areas unsuitable for certain activities.
  • Prevention and Control:
    • Vegetative Cover: Planting vegetation helps stabilize soil and reduce erosion.
    • Terracing: Constructing terraces on slopes helps slow down water flow and minimizes soil loss.
    • Erosion Control Structures: Installing structures like retaining walls or check dams helps manage and control erosion.