Improving Farmers’ Welfare

Source: IE 

Why in News?

Recently, the Parliamentary Standing Committee (PSC) on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing tabled its first report on demands for grants (2024-25) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in the 18th Lok Sabha. 

• It recommended a slew of measures to improve farmers’ welfare. 

What are the Key Recommendations of the PSC Report? 

• Legal Guarantee of MSP: It recommended providing a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP). 
  • Develop a roadmap for implementing the legal MSP, ensuring the central government plans finances for a smooth transition. 
  • The government may present a post-crop season statement in Parliament detailing the number of farmers who sold at MSP and the gap between MSP and market prices. 
• Paddy Waste Management: Provide compensation to farmers for managing and disposing of crop residue to prevent stubble burning. 
  • Consider Punjab’s proposal for a bonus of Rs 2,000 per acre, with cost-sharing between the Centre and the state. 
• Enhancing PM-KISAN: Double the annual financial assistance under the PM-KISAN scheme from Rs 6,000 to Rs 12,000. 
  • It may be extended to tenant farmers and farm labourers too. 
  • Debt Relief: Introduce a debt waiver scheme for farmers and farm laborers to mitigate rising distress and suicides. 
  • Closely monitor the increasing dependence on loans and rising outstanding debts among rural families. 
• Budgetary Allocation: It has pointed to the continuous decline in the budgetary allocation to agriculture as a percentage of the total central plan. 
  • Despite higher allocations from 2021-22 to 2024-25, the Central plan outlay share fell from 3.53% in 2020-21 to 2.54% in 2024-25. 
• Universal Crop Insurance: The committee proposed mandatory crop insurance for small farmers with up to 2 acres, modeled after the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) health insurance scheme.  
• National Commission for Farm Labourers: Establish a National Commission for Minimum Living Wages for Farm Labourers to address their rights and welfare. 
• Renaming Department: Rename the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to the Department of Agriculture, Farmers, and Farm Labourers Welfare to highlight the focus on agricultural laborers' welfare.

What is the Significance of PSC’s Recommendations on Farmers’ Welfare? 

• Financial Stability: A legally binding MSP would ensure financial stability for farmers, reduce suicides, mitigate market volatility, alleviate debt burdens, and improve overall mental health among farmers. 
• Food Security: A legally guaranteed MSP aligns with broader national food security objectives by ensuring that foodgrains are available at stable prices, thus aiding public distribution systems. 
• Environmental Sustainability: Providing compensation to farmers to buy equipment to manage stubble burning will have a positive impact on the environment. 
  • Crop residue burning worsens winter air pollution in Northern India as many farmers cannot afford effective crop residue management equipment.  
• Inclusivity in Welfare: Renaming the Department of Agriculture to include "Farm Labourers" reflects a broader focus on the welfare of all stakeholders in agriculture, not just land-owning farmers. 

What are the Key Issues Affecting Farmers? 

• Unmet Promise of MSP: Farmers are demanding a statutory MSP at 1.5 times the comprehensive cost of production (C2+50%) which remains unfulfilled. 
  • Without a guaranteed MSP at the recommended rate, farmers continue to face financial instability, contributing to rising distress and suicides. 
• Rising Cost of Production: Prices for fertilizers, seeds, insecticides, diesel, water, and electricity are consistently rising, putting a strain on farmers' profitability. 
• Debt Burden:The NABARD Rural Financial Inclusion for 2022-23 said that the percentage of rural families taking loans has risen from 47.4% in 2016-17 to 52% in 2021-22. 
  • It also found rural household incomes rose by 57.6% (2016-22), but expenses grew 69.4%, indicating expenses are outpacing income growth 
• Decline in Public Investment: Cuts in public sector investment in irrigation and power have led to rising costs and incomplete projects, hindering farmers' access to reliable irrigation and affordable electricity. 
  • Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) has not sufficiently met farmers' needs, with many states opting out due to its alleged focus on benefiting insurance companies over farmers. 
• Declining Agricultural Growth: Agriculture’s growth rate in 2023-24 (provisional estimates) declined to 1.4%, the lowest in the last seven years, compared to the average annual growth rate of 4.18% over the past four years. 
• Underfunded MGNREGA: The current government has been accused of underfunding the MGNREGA due to which the number of work days has come down to just 42. 
  • Non availability of MGNREGA work during non-agricultural seasons poses a threat to farmers livelihood. 
• Land Acquisition: There is growing concern over the perceived shift from "Land to the Tiller" to "Land to Corporates," often bypassing the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. 
  • Tribal lands are being taken away without any compensation for mining and other purposes. 

Way Forward 

• Statutory MSP at C2+50%: The government should make a clear commitment to implement a statutory MSP at C2+50% as recommended by the M.S. Swaminathan Commission.  
• One-Time Loan Waiver: A one-time loan waiver would provide immediate relief to farmers, prevent suicides, and allow reinvestment in agriculture. 
• Revamping Crop Insurance: In light of regular droughts, floods, unseasonal rains and hailstorms, there must be a comprehensive crop insurance scheme, different from the PMFBY. 
• Expanding MGNREGA: Increase in funding for MGNREGA, raising the number of workdays to at least 200 and the daily wages to Rs 600 would help rural households maintain a stable income during lean agricultural periods. 
• Progressive Taxation: Income tax slabs should be revised to help raise the necessary resources to fund agrarian reforms.  
• Revisiting Agricultural Policies: The government must revise policies that favor corporate interests over farmers, focusing on the welfare of farmers, farm workers, and rural communities.

Drishti Mains Question: Q. Discuss the key policy changes needed to ensure inclusive growth in the agriculture sector and reduce farmer suicides.

India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recently, the 1^st India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024) was organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, celebrating India's maritime legacy and contributions to global trade, while discussing future innovations. 

What are the Key Highlights of the IMHC 2024? 

• Theme:  "Towards Understanding India's Position in Global Maritime History." 
  • Focused on India’s historical and contemporary contributions to global maritime trade, culture, and innovation. 
• Key Highlights: stalls at the conclave  exhibited India’s maritime legacy, showcasing ancient shipbuilding techniques and navigational tools, reflecting India’s historical connection to global trade networks. 
  • Leading maritime nations like Greece, Italy, and the United Kingdom participated, emphasizing the global significance of India’s maritime heritage. 
  • A key highlight was the emphasis on the upcoming National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, which will showcase India’s ancient maritime techniques, such as shipbuilding and bead-making.

What is India’s Maritime History? 

• Ancient India: 
  • Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) (3300-1300 BCE) : The origins of India’s maritime activities can be traced to the IVC.  
    • Lothal's dry-dock (2400 BC) is the world’s first known dry-dock, reflecting advanced nautical knowledge. 
    • Evidence indicates robust trade between the Indus Valley and Mesopotamia.  
      • The discovery of Harappan seals and jewelry in Mesopotamia underscores this extensive exchange between the two ancient civilizations. 
  • Vedic Era (1500 - 600 BC): Vedic literature, including the Rig Veda, mentions boats and sea voyages, with Varuna, the Lord of the Sea, guiding maritime routes.  
    • The Ramayana and Mahabharata describe shipbuilding and sea travel. 
  • Nandas and Mauryas (500 – 200 BC): The Magadh kingdom's navy is the first ever recorded instance of a navy anywhere in the world. 
    • Chanakya, the advisor to the first Mauryan emperor, Chandragupta Maurya, detailed a waterways department led by a Navadhyaksha (Superintendent of Ships) in his Arthashastra. 
    • Emperor Ashoka used maritime routes to spread Buddhism to Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka, further enriching India's cultural and religious influence. 
  • Satavahana Dynasty (200 BC-220 AD): The Satavahanas controlled India's East coast, trading with the Roman Empire.  
    • They were the first native Indian rulers to issue coins inscribed with ships. 
  • Gupta Empire (320-550 AD): The Gupta Dynasty marked India's Golden Age, with prosperity, cultural growth, and advancements in astronomy and navigation, as noted by Chinese travelers Fa-Hien and Huein Tsang. 
    • Astronomical advancements by Aryabhata and Varahamihira improved oceanic navigation, enabling precise voyages. The opening of several ports revived maritime trade with Europe and Africa. 
  • Southern Dynasties: 
    • Cholas (3^rd–13^th century): Extensive maritime trade with Sumatra, Java, Thailand, China. Built harbors, shipyards, lighthouses. 
    • Pandyas: Controlled pearl farming and traded with Rome and Egypt. 
    • Cheras (12^th Century):  They traded with the Greeks and Romans, using monsoon winds to sail from Tyndis (near Kochi) and Muziris (near Kochi) to Arabian ports. 
• Medieval India:  
  • Arabs:  By the 8th century, Arabs emerged as prominent maritime traders, acting as intermediaries between India, Southeast Asia, and Europe.  
    • Their influence marked a shift in the control of Indian Ocean trade routes. 
  • Portuguese: In the 16th century, Vasco da Gama (1460–1524) discovered an oceanic route from Portugal to India; he rounded the Cape of Good Hope in Africa to arrive at Calicut in Kerala in May 1498. 
    • His arrival marked a new chapter in India's maritime history, disrupting the peaceful trade dominated by coastal and seafaring communities from East Africa to Malaysia and the Indonesian Islands. 
    • The Zamorins of Calicut, a major trading port, had flourishing trade over land and sea. 
    • The Portuguese sought to monopolize trade by establishing strongholds in Goa, and Cochin. 
  • European Competition in Indian Waters: The 17th century witnessed fierce competition among European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British, for dominance over Indian maritime trade. 
    • The British East India Company gradually gained supremacy by securing trade privileges and leveraging naval power to dominate Indian waters. 
• Pre- Independence: 
  • Maratha Naval Resistance: Shivaji Maharaj built a strong navy to counter European and Mughal influence along the western coast. Coastal forts like Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg strengthened maritime defenses.  
  • Maritime India Under The British Raj: The Royal Indian Marine (RIM) was formed in 1892 and later renamed Royal Indian Navy (RIN) in 1934. 
    • During World Wars I and II, the RIN played a significant role in escort missions, patrolling, and combined operations in the Middle East, Burma, and the Mediterranean. 
    • The British Crown formally renamed the naval force as the Royal Indian Navy in 1934, laying the groundwork for its post-independence transformation. 
• Post-Independence Era (1947 – Present): With independence, the Royal Indian Navy was divided between India and Pakistan. In 1950, the prefix "Royal" was dropped, and the Indian Navy was established with the Ashoka Lion as its emblem.  
  • The motto Sam no Varunah ("Be auspicious unto us, Oh Varuna") reflects the Navy’s cultural and historical roots. 
    • Vice Admiral R.D. Katari became the first Indian Chief of Naval Staff in 1958. 
  • The Navy played a pivotal role in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Navy Day, celebrated on  4th December since 1972, honors the success of Operation Trident(1971 Indo-Pak war naval actions).  
  • The Indian Navy has three Commands, each under the control of a Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief namely, The Western (HQ- Mumbai), Eastern (Visakhapatnam) and Southern Naval Command (Kochi).  
  • Modernization efforts have transformed the Indian Navy into a blue-water force with capabilities extending beyond the Indian Ocean region. 

What is the Significance of India's Maritime Sector? 

• Status of India's Maritime Sector: 
  • India ranks as the 16th largest maritime country globally. 
  • India is the world’s 3rd largest ship recycler by tonnage, holding a 30% global market share in ship-breaking with the world’s largest ship-breaking facility located in Alang, Gujarat. 
• Economic Importance: India's maritime sector serves as the backbone of its trade and commerce, handling around 95% of the country's trade by volume and 70% by value. 
  • Indian ports handle approximately 1,200 million tonnes of cargo annually, underscoring the sector's economic significance.. 
  • According to the World Bank’s 2023 Logistic Performance Index (LPI) Report, India ranks 22^nd globally in the “International Shipments” category, a significant rise from 44^th in 2014. 
    • This improvement underscores the performance of Indian ports, which have outperformed global peers on operational parameters such as container turnaround time and dwell time. 
  • Ports support Exports-Imports, international trade, coastal shipping, and cruise shipping. 
  • With the global blue economy expected to reach USD 6 trillion by 2030, India's maritime sector is set to significantly contribute to the country's rise as the world's third-largest economy. 

What are the Key Challenges in India’s Maritime Sector? 

• Port Capacity: India's ports have a limited capacity to handle the increasing volume of cargo.  
  • The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported that despite having 13 major ports and over 200 non-major ports, many are operating at or near full capacity, leading to congestion and delays. 
• Complex Regulations: The maritime sector encounters challenges from overlapping regulations by bodies such as the Directorate General of Shipping, Maritime States Development Council, and United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), hindering operational efficiency.. 
  • Challenges include illegal fishing, unsustainable resource exploitation, and the need for better regulatory implementation to protect marine habitats and biodiversity. 
• Naval Expansion and Indigenisation: While India aims to build a 175-ship navy by 2035, the pace of construction and budget constraints lag behind strategic needs, especially compared to China's rapid shipbuilding. 
  • India faces a shortfall in submarines, with delays in projects like Project 75-I and the need for indigenous nuclear attack submarines. 
• Coastal Security: India's vast and porous coastline is vulnerable to illegal landings of arms and explosives by terror groups and drug syndicates.  
  • Notable cases include the 1993 Mumbai blasts and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, highlighting significant security gaps.

Way Forward 

• Promoting Maritime Tourism: Developing coastal tourism initiatives like Development of Coastal Circuits under Swadesh Darshan Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism can enhance local economies while preserving cultural heritage. 
  • India is advancing its blue economy by focusing on sustainable ocean resource use to drive economic growth and job creation.  
• Enhancing Skill Development: Establishing training programs in maritime skills can empower local communities and create job opportunities. 
  • Collaborating with international maritime institutions can facilitate knowledge transfer and innovation. 
• Green Shipping Practices: India is dedicated to sustainable maritime operations, exemplified by the Green Tug Transition Program and Green Hydrogen Hubs at key ports. 
  • Developing smart ports and eco-friendly tugboats is key to India's maritime vision, enhancing efficiency and reducing the industry's environmental impact. 
• Infrastructure Development: Invest in upgrading ports and shipping infrastructure to boost efficiency and capacity, while also improving connectivity between coastal areas and inland markets to enhance trade. 
  • The visionary Sagar Mala programme integrates ports with industrial clusters, optimizes logistics networks, and promotes comprehensive coastal development. 
• Policy Framework: Formulate integrated policies that combine maritime heritage preservation with economic development objectives, while ensuring compliance with international maritime laws and agreements to foster global cooperation. 
  • The Coastal Shipping Bill 2024 streamlines regulatory frameworks and enhances multi-modal trade connectivity. 

Drishti Mains Question Analyze the significance of India's maritime heritage as highlighted in the India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024.

SIPRI Report on Global Arms Producers

Source: BS 

Why in News?

Recently, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) released its annual report on the world’s 100 largest arms producers with three Indian firms among the top global arms manufacturers. 

What are the Key Findings of the SIPRI Report? 

• Global Arms Revenue: Global arms revenues reached USD 632 billion in 2023, a 4.2% rise driven by wars, regional tensions, and rearmament. 

• Performance of Indian Companies: Three Indian companies namely Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (Rank 43), Bharat Electronics Limited (Rank 67), and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (Rank 94) ranked among the Top 100 global arms producers. 
  • The combined revenues of these companies rose by 5.8%, from USD 6.37 billion in 2022 to USD 6.74 billion (Rs 56,769 crore) in 2023. 

• Major Global Producers:  
  • US: The 41 US companies in the Top 100 earned USD 317 billion in 2023, half of global arms revenues, with the top five producers being US-based. 
  • China: The nine Chinese companies in the Top 100 recorded a total revenue of USD 103 billion in 2023. 
  • Russia: The arms revenues of the two Russian companies for which data was available went up by 40% to an estimated USD 25.5 billion due to a significant increase in orders and production. 

 

• Regional Highlights: Growth in arms revenue was seen in all regions of the world, with particularly sharp rises among companies based in Russia and the Middle East (West Asia). 
• Reasons for Arms Revenue Growth: Increased demand was driven by wars in Gaza and Ukraine, growing tensions in East Asia, and expanded rearmament programs globally. 
  • Smaller arms producers were more efficient in responding to increased demand from conflict zones. 
• Outlook for 2024: Arms revenues rose in 2023 and are expected to grow in 2024. Companies are recruiting more, showing optimism about future sales.

What are Key Items in India's Defence Exports? 

• BrahMos Missiles: India delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines, following a USD 375-million deal for three shore-based, anti-ship missile batteries. 
  • ASEAN countries and some Gulf nations are showing increasing interest in acquiring BrahMos missiles. 
• Dornier-228 Aircraft: India exports the Dornier-228 aircraft, a versatile and reliable aircraft for defense and civilian applications to various countries. 
• Subsidiary Aircraft Parts: India exports subsidiary aircraft parts like fuselage and wings to defense giants such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin as part of the global supply chain and offset commitments. 
• Software and Electronic Equipment: India exports software and electronic equipment for defense applications to France. 
• 155mm Artillery Guns: India has been exporting 155mm artillery guns to countries like Armenia, highlighting its capabilities in producing advanced artillery systems. 
• Akash Missile System: The Akash air defence missile system, including its variant Akash-1S, has been a major export, with Armenia being the first international customer.  
• Pinaka: Pinaka multi-launch rocket systems have been exported, with Armenia being a significant buyer. 

What are India’s Initiatives to Boost Defence Indigenisation and Exports? 

• Liberalized FDI Policy: FDI limit in the defence sector was raised in 2020 to 74% through the automatic route for companies seeking new defence industrial licenses and up to 100% through the government route for those likely to result in access to modern technology.  
• Priority for Domestic Procurement: Emphasis is placed on procuring capital items from domestic sources under the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)-2020. 
• Positive Indigenization Lists: Five Positive Indigenization Lists with 509 items and five lists of 5,012 items from Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) were issued, with import bans after specified timelines. 
  • Additionally, launch of the Self-Reliant Initiatives through Joint Action (SRIJAN) portal to facilitate indigenization by Indian industry, including MSMEs. 
• iDEX Scheme: The Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) scheme was launched to involve startups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in defence innovation. 
• Public Procurement Preference: Implementation of the Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order 2017 to support domestic manufacturers. 
• Defence Industrial Corridors: Establishment of two Defence Industrial Corridors, one each in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, to promote defence manufacturing. 
  • Defence Research & Development (R&D) has been opened up for industry and startups to foster innovation and collaboration. 

Conclusion 

India's defence sector has made significant strides in indigenization, with key initiatives driving growth in production and exports. The rise in arms revenues globally, coupled with India's growing share in the global defence market, reflects the success of strategic policies aimed at enhancing self-reliance and international partnerships. 

Drishti Mains Question:  Q. Enumerate various government initiatives for promoting indigenous defense production.

Rising Drug Abuse Among Youth

Source: HT 

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India has expressed concern over the rising drug abuse among youth, calling it a generational threat. 

• This concern emerged during a verdict supporting the National Investigation Agency's (NIA) probe into a heroin smuggling case linked to Pakistan.  
• The court emphasized the need for urgent collective action from families, society, and state authorities to address the growing menace of drug abuse. 

What is the State of Drug Abuse in the World? 

• Global Scenario: 
  • As per the World Drug Report 2024 released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), global drug use reached 292 million people, marking a 20% increase over the past decade. 
  • Drug Preferences: Cannabis remains the most widely used drug (228 million users), followed by opioids (60 million), amphetamines (30 million), cocaine (23 million), and ecstasy (20 million). 
  • Emerging Threats: The report flags netizens, a new class of synthetic opioids, as a significant threat, more potent than fentanyl, contributing to rising overdose deaths, especially in high-income countries. 
    • Fentanyl is an opioid drug used as an analgesic (pain relief) and anesthetic 
  • Treatment Gap: Only 1 in 11 people with 64 million drug use disorders receive treatment. 
    • Women face greater barriers, with only 1 in 18 women with drug use disorders receiving treatment, compared to 1 in 7 men. 
• Drug Prevalence in India: 
  • Drug Addiction: 
    • Drug addiction is on the rise, with approximately 100 million people in India affected by various narcotics according to the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). 
      • States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Punjab recorded the highest number of FIRs under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS) between 2019 and 2021. 
  • Alcohol: According to the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India (2019), conducted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, 16 crore people (14.6%) between ages 10 and 75 are current alcohol users. Of these, 5.2% are alcohol dependents (alcoholism). 
    • Alcoholism is a chronic disease that causes people to crave alcohol and be unable to control their drinking. 
  • Cannabis: 3.1 crore people (2.8%) are cannabis users, with 72 lakh (0.66%) facing cannabis-related issues. 
  • Opioid Use: 2.06% of the population uses opioids, and nearly 0.55% (60 lakh) require treatment services for opioid dependence. 
  • Sedative: 1.18 crore (1.08%) individuals use sedatives for non-medical purposes. 
  • Inhalant: Inhalant abuse affects 1.7% of children and adolescents, significantly higher than the 0.58% prevalence in adults. Approximately 18 lakh children require assistance to address inhalant abuse. 
  • Injecting Drug Use: Approximately 8.5 lakh people inject drugs, known as People Who Inject Drugs (PWID). 

What are the Factors Contributing to Drug Abuse in India? 

• Peer Influence: The desire to fit in with friends and gain social approval often leads to experimentation with drugs, especially in high school and college environments. 
• Academic Stress and Mental Health Issues: Pressure to excel academically, coupled with high competition, can cause stress, anxiety, and depression.  
  • Some youth use drugs as a coping mechanism for managing these pressures. 
• Cultural Norms and Media Influence: The glamorisation of drug use in media, movies, and music often normalizes substance abuse among young people, making it appear trendy or acceptable. 
  • The limited role of state authorities and local governments in addressing drug abuse has contributed to the rise of substance use in India. 
• Socio Economic Factors: Poverty, unemployment, and limited access to educational and recreational resources increase the likelihood of substance abuse as young people turn to drugs as a form of escape or coping mechanism. 
• Family Environment: Dysfunctional family dynamics, parental substance abuse, and lack of emotional support often correlate with higher rates of youth drug use.  
  • A supportive family environment can mitigate these risks. 
• Legal System Loopholes: Organized crime syndicates exploit legal system loopholes, such as weak border controls, to smuggle drugs. They often misuse trade routes from Africa and South Asia for drug trafficking purposes.  
  • In 2023, the Border Security Force reported a 35% increase in drug seizures along the India-Pakistan border, highlighting the ongoing challenges in controlling illicit drug flows through these routes. 
• Easy Availability: Easy drug availability, particularly due to smuggling in Punjab, has led to widespread abuse.  
  • Around 15.4% of Punjab’s population uses narcotics, with over 3 million people affected as per a 2022 study by Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER). 
• Fear of Strict laws: Strict laws like the NDPS Act can discourage families from disclosing drug abuse due to fear of prosecution, hindering efforts for rehabilitation.  
  • This not only prevents individuals from seeking help but also allows the illegal drug supply chain to continue, contributing to the rise of drug abuse in India. 

What are the Government Measures to Tackle Drug Abuse in India? 

• Legislative Measures: 
  • Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985: It regulates the production, manufacture, and trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. 
  • Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PITNDPS) Act, 1988 govern the legal framework for controlling and preventing drug trafficking and abuse. 
• Institutional Measures: 
  • National Investigation Agency's (NIA): It is the Central Counter Terrorism Law Enforcement Agency in India. 
    • It plays a crucial role in tackling drug trafficking, particularly when it involves national security concerns.  
    • It investigates cases with inter-State and international links, including drug smuggling networks tied to terrorism, arms trafficking, and cross-border infiltration.  
    • It coordinates with other agencies to disrupt transnational drug trade, seize illicit shipments, and dismantle organized criminal syndicates involved in trafficking. 
  • National Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB):  
    • NCB is a nodal drug law enforcement and intelligence agency of India. It coordinates with national and international agencies, and participates in initiatives such as the SAARC Drug Offences Monitoring Desk (SDOMD). 
  • Other Enforcement Agencies: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Customs Department, and various law enforcement agencies work together to curb drug trafficking. 
• Preventive and Rehabilitation Measures: 
  • National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR): The NAPDDR plan focuses on reducing the demand for drugs through awareness campaigns, capacity-building programs, de-addiction, and rehabilitation services. 
  • Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA): NMBA was launched to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drugs, especially among school children. 
  • NIDAAN and NCORD Portals: NIDAAN and NCORD Portals are online platforms that maintain detailed databases of drug offenders, supporting law enforcement agencies in tracking drug-related crimes and trends. 
• Specific Initiatives: 
  • Project Sunrise (2016):  
    • Project Sunrise is addressing the rising HIV prevalence among drugs injecting people in the northeastern states.  
  • Nasha Mukt Bharat:  
    • Nasha Mukt Bharat is a nationwide campaign focusing on community outreach to prevent drug use and its social consequences. 
  • Seizure Information Management System (SIMS):  
    • SIMS portal was developed by the NCB to track drug offenses and offenders through an online database. 
  • De-addiction Centers:  
    • Institutions like the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) at AIIMS, and state-run centers offering counseling, medical treatment, and social reintegration for addicts. 

Way Forward 

• Strengthening and Reform Existing Laws: Enhance the implementation of the NDPS and PITNDPS Acts through better training, resources, and modern technology.  
  • The NDPS Act needs to be revisited to integrate rehabilitation alongside punitive measures, strengthening enforcement, and improving coordination between local, state and central authorities.  
• Integrated Policy Approach: The government should develop integrated policies that address the root causes of drug abuse, incorporating health, education, and social welfare sectors. 
  • Continued research is necessary to monitor drug trends and the effectiveness of intervention programs, allowing for data-driven policy adjustments. 
• De-addiction Centres and Camps: Establishing district-level de-addiction centers and organizing rehabilitation camps by government agencies can provide crucial support to affected individuals.  
  • Post-care counseling and rehabilitation efforts are essential for long-term recovery and preventing relapses. 
• Education and Awareness: Schools should include drug education in their curricula, teaching students about the risks and consequences of substance abuse from an early age. 
  • Civil society and religious leaders can significantly contribute to preventing drug abuse through awareness programs in schools and communities, promoting healthy choices and engaging role models like athletes and actors.  
• International Cooperation: Strengthen ties with neighboring countries and international organizations such as UNODC and Interpol for effective information sharing and counter-trafficking measures. 
• Use of Technology: Utilize AI, Big Data, and drones to track drug trafficking networks and monitor illicit drug cultivation areas. Establish online reporting systems for drug-related activities. 

Conclusion 

Article 47 of the Constitution calls for the improvement of public health and the prohibition of harmful substances. To effectively address the drug menace, India requires stronger regulations, enhanced laws, and improved coordination among states. Formulating a comprehensive national policy focused on prevention, rehabilitation, and stringent enforcement is essential. 

Drishti Mains Question: Discuss the issue of drug abuse in India. Suggest some measures to tackle the issue of drug abuse.

Golan Heights

Source: DD 

Why in News?

The Golan Heights has become a focal point of international attention as Israel announces plans to double its population in the strategically important region.  

What are Key Facts About Golan Heights? 

• Geography: The Golan Heights is a 1,200-square-kilometre rocky plateau in southwestern Syria,  overlooking the Jordan River Valley. 
  • The name "Golan" is derived from the biblical city of refuge, Golan in Bashan, which is mentioned in the Bible. 
  • The Golan is bounded by Mount Hermon (north), the Yarmūk River(south), the Jordan River and Sea of Galilee (west), and the seasonal Wadi Al-Ruqqād (east). 
  • The area is a key source of water for an arid region. Rainwater from the Golan's catchment feeds into the Jordan River. 
• Historical Context: Israel captured most of the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War. Syria's attempt to retake it during the 1973 war failed.  
  • In 1974, Israel and Syria signed the Agreement on Disengagement, which established a ceasefire following the Yom Kippur War. 
    • This agreement led to the creation of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) to monitor the ceasefire line in the Golan Heights.  
  • Israel annexed the region in 1981, a move not recognized internationally, though the US acknowledged Israeli sovereignty in 2019. Syria still demands its return. 
• Military Presence: The area remains divided by a United Nations-monitored demilitarized zone (DMZ), with Israeli and Syrian forces separated by the "Area of Separation," a buffer zone created under the 1974 Agreement. 
• Military Significance: The Golan Heights is considered a vital security buffer zone. Israel’s military presence in the area serves as a deterrent against potential threats from Syria and other regional actors.  
  • The plateau’s elevated position allows Israel to monitor movements in both Syria and Lebanon. 

Read more: Conflict between Israel and Syria 

Nanoplastics Causing Antibiotic Resistance

Source: PIB 

Why in News? 

Recently, a study revealed that nanoplastics derived from single-use plastic bottles (SUPBs) contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance (AR), presenting an overlooked public health risk. 

• Antibiotic resistance, a type of antimicrobial resistance, occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of drugs that once killed them or inhibited their growth.   

What are Key Highlights of the Study? 

• Risk to Gut Microbiome: Nanoplastics could transform Lactobacillus acidophilus (gut microbiota) into a carrier of AR genes, which may then be transferred to pathogenic bacteria during infections, thus worsening the AR crisis. 
• Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT): Polyethylene terephthalate bottle-derived nanoplastics (PBNPs) facilitate the transfer of AR genes from E. coli to Lactobacillus acidophilus through horizontal gene transfer (HGT). 
  • In HGT, genes are passed directly from one organism to another, potentially across different species. (Vertical gene transfer, from parent to offspring). 
• Two Mechanisms of AR Gene Transfer:  
  • Direct Transformation Pathway: PBNPs act as physical carriers, transporting AR plasmids across bacterial membranes and promoting direct gene transfer. 
  • OMV-Induced Transfer Pathway: PBNPs induce oxidative stress, triggering increased outer membrane vesicle (OMV) secretion.  
    • These OMVs, carrying AR genes, facilitate gene transfer between bacterial species, including between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria. 
• AR Gene Transfer Mechanism: 

Pangolin

Source: DTE

Nigerian authorities seized approximately 2.18 tonnes of pangolin scales, a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat pangolin trafficking. 

• Pangolins are the most trafficked mammals, with high demand for their meat and scales in Asia and Africa, primarily for use in traditional medicine to treat ailments like rheumatism, arthritis, and skin conditions. 
• Pangolins Species: There are eight species of pangolins, found across two continents: 
  • Africa: Black-bellied pangolin, White-bellied pangolin, Giant Ground pangolin and Temminck's Ground pangolin. 
  • Asia: Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata), Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Philippine pangolin, and the Sunda pangolin. 
• Characteristics:  Pangolins are solitary, nocturnal animals with a distinctive armor of scales. Also known as scaly anteaters, they primarily feed on ants and termites. 
• Conservation Status:  The conservation status of these species ranges from Vulnerable to Critically Endangered. 
  • Trade of pangolins is banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species and they are listed in Appendix I of the IUCN Red List, indicating they are threatened with extinction. 
  • In India, the Indian (endangered on IUCN Red List) and Chinese pangolins are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, prohibiting exploitation. 

Read more: Pangolin 

INS Nirdeshak

Source: TH

The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Nirdeshak, a state-of-the-art survey vessel, at Visakhapatnam Naval Dockyard.

• About: INS Nirdeshak, the second ship of the  Survey Vessels (Large) (SVL) Project, has been commissioned to enhance hydrographic surveys, navigation, and maritime safety using advanced systems like Multi-Beam Echo Sounders, and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs).
  • The SVL Project aims to modernize the Indian Navy's hydrographic survey fleet by replacing the aging Sandhayak class ships. The project comprises four ships; they are Sandhayak, Nirdeshak, Ikshak, and Sanshodhak.
• Indigenous Manufacturing: Built with over 80% indigenous content, the project supports the government's Make in India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiatives.
• Maritime Diplomacy and Security: The ship will act as a credible tool for maritime diplomacy, assisting friendly nations in oceanic surveys, which supports India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative.
  • It enhances India’s leadership in the Indian Ocean Region by improving maritime security.

Read more: Sandhayak

Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System

Source: PIB 

Recently, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions highlighted the progress made under the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) to enhance the efficiency of grievance redressal mechanisms. 

• CPGRAMS is a 24/7 online platform developed by National Informatics Centre, for citizens to lodge grievances related to service delivery. It connects all Ministries/Departments of the Government of India and states, with role-based access.  
  • Citizens can track grievance status using a registration ID and file an appeal if dissatisfied with the resolution.  
  • As of 31st October 2024, around 1.12 crore grievances have been redressed on CPGRAMS from 2020 to 2024. In 2024, an all-time high of 23.24 lakh grievances were addressed. 
  • The government has implemented 10-step reforms to make grievance redressal more efficient, including mapping over one lakh grievance officers and reducing pendency to 54,339 grievances.  

Read more: Speedy Grievances Redressal under CPGRAMS 

VIRAASAT

Source: PIB 

The Ministry of Textiles is organizing the third edition of the VIRAASAT Sari Festival 2024 from 15^th–28^th December in New Delhi.  

• This mega event promotes India’s handloom heritage by showcasing diverse handwoven saris and providing direct market access to weavers and artisans. 
• About India’s Handloom Sector:  
  • The handloom sector employs around 3.5 million people, making it the second-largest employment sector after agriculture,  particularly women.  
  • It is known for its unique regional weaves like Paithani, Kancheepuram, Banarasi, Patola, and others, each with distinct designs and motifs that attract global attention. 
• Government Initiatives for Handloom Sector: 
  • National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP) 
  • Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS) 
  • Weavers' MUDRA Loan/Concessional Credit Scheme 
  • Handloom Producer Companies 
  • Design Resource Centers (DRCs) 
  • One District One Product 

Read More: Reforms in Handloom Sector.