1) Electoral Reforms in India

GS 2: Polity and Governance: Ensuring free and fair elections

Why is it in the news?

• The Election Commission (EC) has invited political parties for discussions on strengthening the electoral process in light of recent allegations regarding electoral roll manipulation and duplicate Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers in multiple States.
• Ensuring free and fair elections is a fundamental requirement of democracy, making electoral reforms a pressing necessity.

Legal Provisions Governing Elections

Authority of the Election Commission

• Article 324 of the Indian Constitution vests the EC with the responsibility of supervising elections to Parliament and State Legislatures. The Representation of the People Act, 1950, along with the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, governs the preparation of electoral rolls.

Evolution of the Voting Process

• The first two general elections (1952 and 1957) used separate ballot boxes for each candidate, requiring voters to drop blank ballots in the chosen candidate’s box.
• From the 1962 general elections, printed ballot papers with candidate names and symbols were introduced.
• Since 2004, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) have been used in all constituencies.
• In 2019, EVMs were backed by 100% Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips to enhance transparency.

Issues in the Electoral Process

• Paper Ballot vs. EVMs: A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) sought a return to paper ballots and 100% VVPAT-EVM matching. The Supreme Court dismissed both requests in April 2024 but allowed burnt memory verification of 5% of EVMs in case of suspected tampering.
• Electoral Roll Manipulation: Allegations surfaced during the Maharashtra and Delhi elections about the inclusion of fake voters to benefit the ruling party at the Centre.
• Duplicate EPIC Numbers: Opposition parties flagged identical EPIC numbers across States, suggesting voter fraud. The EC attributed this to the earlier decentralized system before shifting to the centralized ERONET platform but assured that voters could only cast ballots at their designated polling stations.

Issues in the Campaign Process

• Misuse of Star Campaigners: Politicians frequently use abusive language, appeal to caste and communal sentiments, and make false allegations.
• Excessive Election Expenditure: Candidates often exceed spending limits, while political parties face no expenditure ceiling. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections reportedly cost around ₹1,00,000 crore.
• Criminalization of Politics: The 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw 46% (251 out of 543) of elected MPs with criminal cases, 31% of whom faced serious charges like rape, murder, and kidnapping.

Proposed Electoral Reforms

1) Voting and Counting Reforms

• Scientific VVPAT Sampling: The sample size for EVM-VVPAT matching should be scientifically determined, and a single discrepancy should trigger a full VVPAT count for the concerned region.
• Totaliser Machines: The EC recommended in 2016 the use of totaliser machines to aggregate votes from 14 EVMs before revealing the candidate-wise count, ensuring voter anonymity.
• Verification of Burnt Memory: Candidates finishing second or third should be allowed to request verification of 5% of EVMs in case of suspected tampering.
• Unique EPIC Numbers: The EC should eliminate duplicate EPIC numbers and consider linking voter IDs with Aadhaar after addressing privacy concerns.

2) Campaign Reforms

Regulating Star Campaigners:

• The EC should have the authority to revoke the ‘Star Campaigner’ status for serious Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations.

Curbing Election Expenditure:

• ‘Financial assistance’ provided by political parties to candidates should be included in individual spending limits.
• A ceiling should be imposed on overall political party spending.

Disclosure of Criminal Records:

• Candidates and parties must publicize criminal antecedents in newspapers and electronic media at least three times before elections, as per Supreme Court directives.
• Strict enforcement is needed to ensure informed voting.

Conclusion

• To strengthen democratic integrity, the EC and political parties must engage in meaningful discussions and implement these reforms.
• Addressing issues in voting, counting, and campaigning will enhance electoral transparency and restore public confidence in the democratic process.

2) Microlightning in Water Droplets: A New Perspective on Life’s Origin

GS 3: Science and Technology: Origin of life on Earth

Why is it in the news?

• The origin of life on Earth has long been a mystery, but a new study suggests that waterfalls and crashing waves may have played a crucial role. Researchers found that these natural forces created mists of water, triggering chemical reactions essential for life.
• This discovery adds a new perspective to the Miller-Urey hypothesis, which proposed that lightning strikes could have initiated the process of life’s formation.

The Miller-Urey Hypothesis

• The Earth formed about 4.6 billion years ago, with a rich mix of chemicals but a lack of organic molecules containing carbon-nitrogen bonds. These bonds are essential for proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, and other life-sustaining compounds.
• In 1952, chemist Stanley Miller and physicist Harold Urey demonstrated that organic compounds could form when electricity was applied to a mixture of water and inorganic gases. Their experiment suggested that a lightning bolt striking the ocean could trigger reactions with methane, ammonia, and hydrogen, leading to the formation of organic molecules. At the time, this experiment was groundbreaking, providing a possible explanation for the emergence of life.
• However, later studies questioned this hypothesis. Critics argued that real lightning would have been infrequent and mostly struck the open ocean, where organic compounds would have quickly dispersed. This limitation led researchers to explore alternative explanations.

A New Discovery: Microlightning in Water Droplets

• The new study, led by Stanford University chemist Richard Zare, presents an alternative mechanism for the formation of organic compounds. It found that external electricity, such as lightning, may not have been necessary. Instead, water sprays alone could have generated the required chemical reactions.
• Zare’s team discovered that when water droplets split, they develop opposite electrical charges—larger droplets become positively charged, while smaller ones carry negative charges. As these charged droplets come close, tiny sparks or “micro-lightning” leap between them, mimicking how lightning forms in clouds.
• When researchers sprayed water into a mixture of nitrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, and ammonia, this micro-lightning triggered the formation of organic compounds, including hydrogen cyanide, glycine, and uracil—key building blocks of life.

Implications for the Origin of Life

• The study suggests that rather than rare lightning strikes, the continuous action of crashing waves and waterfalls could have initiated life’s building blocks. Water sprays, present in abundance on early Earth, could have created the necessary conditions for chemical reactions to accumulate and sustain organic molecules.
• This overcomes many of the problems people have with the Miller-Urey hypothesis, according to Zare. The research provides a compelling alternative, indicating that life’s origins may have been driven by everyday natural processes rather than rare electrical discharges.

3) National Quantum Mission: India’s Quantum Leap

GS 3: Science and Technology: Harnessing quantum technology

Why is it in the news?

• With rapid technological advancements, India is taking a bold step into the future with the National Quantum Mission (NQM). Approved by the Union Cabinet on April 19, 2023, the mission aims to establish India as a leader in quantum technology research and development. Spanning from 2023–24 to 2030–31, it has been allocated a budget of ₹6,003.65 crore.
• This initiative is not just a mission but a strategic move to harness quantum technology for innovation, security, and industrial growth. By investing in cutting-edge quantum research, India seeks to position itself among global leaders in this transformative field.

What is Quantum Computing?

• Quantum computers operate using qubits, which differ from traditional computer bits. Unlike classical bits that are either 0 or 1, qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously (superposition). This unique property makes quantum computers potentially far more powerful and efficient than conventional ones.
• Many nations are investing heavily in quantum computing and other quantum technologies, and India is well-positioned to make significant strides. The National Quantum Mission presents an opportunity to drive breakthroughs in healthcare, clean energy, climate change solutions, job creation, and more, impacting the lives of millions.

Objectives of the National Quantum Mission

• The mission aims to leverage quantum technologies across key sectors such as communication, cryptography, and computing. Specific objectives include:

1) Quantum Computing Development

Build intermediate-scale quantum computers with:

• 20-50 physical qubits (within 3 years)
• 50-100 physical qubits (within 5 years)
• 50-1000 physical qubits (within 8 years)
• Utilize superconducting and photonic technologies to enhance computational capabilities.

2) Satellite-Based Quantum Communication

• Establish quantum-secured communication between two ground stations over a 2,000 km distance within India.
• Expand secure long-distance quantum communication with other countries.

3) Inter-City Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

• Implement quantum-secured communication spanning 2,000 km using trusted nodes and wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) on existing optical fibre networks.

4) Multi-Node Quantum Networks

• Develop a multi-node quantum network incorporating Quantum memories; Entanglement swapping; and Synchronized quantum repeaters at each node.
• Enable scalable and robust quantum communication with 2-3 network nodes.

5) Advanced Quantum Sensing & Clocks

Design highly sensitive quantum devices such as:

• Magnetometers with 1 femto-Tesla/sqrt(Hz) sensitivity in atomic systems.
• Gravity sensors with better than 100 nano-meter/second² sensitivity.
• Atomic clocks with 10⁻¹⁹ fractional instability for precise timing, navigation, and secure communication.

6) Quantum Materials & Devices

• Develop next-generation quantum materials, including Superconductors; Novel semiconductor structures; and Topological materials.
• Facilitate the fabrication of qubits, single-photon sources/detectors, entangled photon sources, and quantum sensing/metrology devices for computing and communication applications.

Strategic Importance of NQM

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is one of the nine key initiatives under the Prime Minister’s Science Technology Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC). By advancing secure quantum communication, quantum computing, and precision sensing, India aims to become a global powerhouse in quantum technology.
• This mission is expected to transform key sectors such as telecommunications, defense, finance, and healthcare, ensuring long-term societal and economic benefits. Through strategic investments in quantum research, India is set to achieve a quantum leap in technological innovation.

Implementation Strategy: Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs)

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a nationwide initiative focused on advancing quantum technology in India. To drive innovation, four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) have been established, bringing together 14 Technical Groups across 17 states and 2 Union Territories.
• These hubs play a crucial role in technology innovation, skill development, entrepreneurship, industry partnerships, and global collaborations. Special efforts are being made to encourage women scientists from across the country to participate and benefit from the mission.

(Quantum Domains of Four Thematic Hubs)

Quantum Domains and Research Collaboration

Each T-Hub follows the Hub-Spoke-Spike model, a cluster-based approach that fosters collaboration between research institutions. In this model:

• Hubs serve as the central research institutions.
• Spokes represent associated research projects.
• Spikes consist of individual research groups working within the ecosystem.

This model facilitates seamless resource sharing and expertise exchange, ensuring a well-coordinated and efficient research framework for quantum advancements.

State-wise Fund Allocation and Research Ecosystem

• The four T-Hubs involve 152 researchers from 43 institutions across India, creating a robust collaborative ecosystem for quantum research. The key activities undertaken by these hubs include:
• Technology Development to push the boundaries of quantum advancements.
• Human Resource Development to build a skilled workforce in quantum technologies.
• Entrepreneurship Promotion to encourage quantum-based startups and innovations.
• Industry Collaborations to integrate quantum research with practical applications.
• International Partnerships to position India as a global leader in quantum research.

Key Initiatives Under the National Quantum Mission

With the emergence of quantum computing, traditional encryption methods are at risk. To address this challenge, NQM is focusing on quantum-resilient encryption techniques and post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) frameworks to safeguard India’s critical digital infrastructure.

• Quantum-Safe Ecosystem Framework: A strategic roadmap has been developed to enhance India’s digital security against quantum threats.
• DRDO Initiatives: The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is leading projects on quantum-resilient security schemes and quantum-safe symmetric and asymmetric key cryptographic algorithms.
• Advancements by SETS: The Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS), under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA), is accelerating PQC research. It has successfully implemented quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms for applications such as Fast IDentity Online (FIDO) authentication tokens and Internet of Things (IoT) security.
• C-DoT Innovations: The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has developed Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), and Quantum Secure Video IP Phones, significantly enhancing India’s cybersecurity infrastructure.

Global Competitiveness and Strategic Impact

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) has the potential to revolutionize India’s technology landscape and make the country globally competitive in quantum computing, communication, and cybersecurity.
• Its impact spans across crucial sectors, including communication, healthcare, finance, and energy, with applications in drug discovery, space exploration, banking, and national security.
• Furthermore, NQM will play a pivotal role in advancing key national initiatives, such as:

1) Digital India (enhancing secure digital infrastructure)

2) Make in India (boosting indigenous quantum technology development)

3) Skill India (training professionals in quantum sciences)

4) Start-up India (encouraging quantum-based entrepreneurship)

5) Self-Reliant India (Atmanirbhar Bharat) (reducing dependency on foreign quantum technology)

6) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (leveraging quantum innovations for sustainable growth)

Conclusion

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is more than a technological initiative—it is a strategic step toward securing India’s future in the quantum era. With significant investments, world-class research collaborations, and dedicated innovation hubs, the mission aims to position India as a global leader in quantum technology.
• By fostering scientific excellence, economic resilience, and national security, NQM will ensure that India remains at the forefront of the quantum revolution, shaping the future of technology and innovation worldwide.

4) Five Eyes Intelligence Alliance (FVEY)

GS 2: International Relations: Intelligence sharing alliance

Why is it in the news?

• The Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance is facing disruptions due to shifts in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump.

Overview of the Five Eyes Intelligence Alliance (FVEY)

• The Five Eyes is one of the most influential and secretive intelligence alliances, consisting of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Formation and Development

• Established during World War II, the alliance originated from the UKUSA Agreement signed between the U.S. and the U.K. in 1946.
• Canada (1948), Australia (1956), and New Zealand (1956) later joined, forming a close-knit group of nations with shared intelligence priorities.
• Initially aimed at monitoring Soviet communications during the Cold War, the alliance has evolved to address modern threats, including terrorism, cyber warfare, and geopolitical challenges.

Member Agencies

Each nation contributes through its premier intelligence agency:

• United States: National Security Agency (NSA)
• United Kingdom: Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ)
• Canada: Communications Security Establishment (CSE)
• Australia: Australian Signals Directorate (ASD)
• New Zealand: Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB)
• A key tool used by the alliance is the ECHELON surveillance system, which intercepts global communications, including emails, phone calls, and online activities.

Intelligence Operations and Mechanisms

• Signals Intelligence (SIGINT): Monitoring electronic communications, satellite transmissions, and cyber threats.
• Human Intelligence (HUMINT): Intelligence collected from spies and covert operatives.
• Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT): Use of satellite imagery for security and military strategies.
• Cyber Intelligence: Tracking hacking threats, cyber-attacks, and state-sponsored espionage.
• Counterterrorism Intelligence: Preventing terrorist activities by monitoring global networks and radicalization efforts.
• Geopolitical Surveillance: Observing developments in strategic areas, including the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East.

Key Challenges and Controversies

Privacy and Ethical Concerns

• Whistleblower Edward Snowden’s revelations exposed the alliance’s mass surveillance programs, raising fears about privacy violations and data misuse.

Geopolitical Strains

• The alliance’s focus on monitoring China and Russia has led to diplomatic tensions with these nations.

Internal Disagreements

• Differences in national policies and priorities occasionally cause friction among the Five Eyes members.

Modern-Day Relevance of Five Eyes

Addressing China and Russia

• The alliance actively monitors China’s growing influence in technology, global trade, and security.
• Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics, including cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns, remain a major focus.

Counterterrorism and Extremism

• After 9/11, counterterrorism became a top priority, leading to extensive surveillance operations against groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
• Intelligence-sharing among Five Eyes nations has played a critical role in preventing several large-scale terrorist attacks worldwide.

Cybersecurity and AI Threats

• The alliance is focused on combating ransomware, data breaches, and AI-driven disinformation campaigns.

Surveillance and Civil Liberties Debate

• Exposures of mass surveillance programs, such as PRISM, have sparked global debates on privacy.
• While governments justify these practices as essential for national security, concerns about civil liberties persist.

Geopolitical Impact: What It Means for India

• Though not a Five Eyes member, India collaborates with the alliance on counterterrorism and cybersecurity.
• A recent intelligence and security conference in New Delhi brought together representatives from over 20 nations, including Five Eyes members.
• Discussions on expanding the group to include partners like India, Japan, and Germany remain ongoing, but challenges related to trust and strategic alignment persist.

5) India-New Zealand FTA Talks Resume After a Decade

GS 2: International Relations: India- New Zealand FTA negotiations

Why is it in the news?

• After nearly 10 years, India and New Zealand have restarted discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to enhance bilateral economic relations. The agreement aims to expand trade, optimize supply chains, and attract investments.

Key Goals of the India-New Zealand FTA

• Increasing Market Access and Trade Expansion: The FTA seeks to lower trade barriers and promote economic collaboration. With bilateral trade surpassing USD 1 billion (April-January 2025), there is significant potential for growth.
• Improving Supply Chain Efficiency: The agreement is expected to enhance logistics and trade connectivity. For instance, New Zealand’s dairy and agricultural products could gain structured entry into India, while India’s IT and pharmaceutical sectors could secure better access to the New Zealand market.
• Promoting Investment and Employment: The FTA could drive investments and create jobs in sectors like IT, services, and agriculture. India is particularly focused on securing better mobility for skilled professionals in software, engineering, and other industries.

Why Did the 2015 Negotiations Stall?

• Disputes Over Dairy Market Entry: New Zealand sought greater access to India’s dairy sector, but India opposed this to protect its small dairy farmers. India’s dairy imports from New Zealand remained minimal (~$0.57 million), reinforcing its protective stance.
• Tariff Reduction Challenges: India’s average tariff of 17.8% was significantly higher than New Zealand’s 2.3%, making tariff reductions difficult. For instance, India was unwilling to lower duties on dairy, meat, and wine due to concerns over domestic industry impact.
• Limited Trade Benefits for India: Since New Zealand already offers low tariffs and duty-free access to many goods, India saw fewer advantages in an FTA. Indian exports, such as textiles and pharmaceuticals, already enjoy substantial market access.
• Barriers to Skilled Labor Movement: India sought easier visa regulations for its IT and services professionals, but New Zealand was reluctant to make concessions, hindering negotiations.
• External Trade Pressures: Countries like the U.S. pressured India to open its dairy and agriculture sectors, complicating its stance on New Zealand’s demands. Granting concessions to New Zealand could have set a precedent for other trade partners.

Possible Solutions for a Balanced Agreement

• Sector-Specific Trade Concessions: Rather than across-the-board tariff cuts, a focused approach can be adopted. India could allow limited imports of value-added dairy products while negotiating favourable terms for its IT and services industry.
• Expanding Cooperation Beyond Tariffs: Both countries should emphasize investment facilitation, technology exchange, and regulatory alignment. Collaborating in fields like agri-tech, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals can create new trade opportunities without tariff disputes.

 

6) UN Adopts Minimum Dietary Diversity Indicator

GS 2: Society: Monitoring SDG 2

Why is it in the news?

• The United Nations Statistical Commission has adopted a new indicator on Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) to monitor global nutrition and track progress towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 – Zero Hunger.
• This addition aims to keep healthy diets central to discussions on food system transformation and ensure a holistic approach to nutrition under the 2030 Agenda.

Understanding Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD)

• MDD measures dietary variety, recognizing that diet quality is crucial for health, growth, and well-being. It tracks the intake of 10 key food groups over 24 hours: Grains; White roots, tubers, and plantains; Pulses (beans, peas, and lentils); Nuts and seeds; Milk and dairy products; Meat, poultry, and fish; Eggs; Dark green leafy vegetables; Other vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables; and Other vegetables and fruits.
• This approach ensures that nutrition is not just about calorie intake but also about consuming diverse and nutritious foods.

Integration into the SDG Indicator Framework

• The MDD indicator joins nearly 250 existing indicators under the global SDG framework, first adopted in 2017.
• It was developed through a year-long review by a coalition of countries and international organizations, led by Switzerland, along with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the World Health Organization (WHO).
• The indicator was formally adopted at the 56th session of the UN Statistical Commission in New York from March 4–7, 2025.

Significance of the Indicator

• According to José Rosero Moncayo, FAO’s Chief Statistician, the absence of an SDG indicator on healthy diets had overlooked the crucial role of nutrition in achieving the 2030 Agenda.
• He emphasized that unhealthy dietary patterns are a leading cause of poor health and non-communicable diseases worldwide. The MDD indicator provides policymakers with a scientific tool to formulate evidence-based strategies for improving nutrition and health outcomes.

Target Population and Monitoring

• The FAO and UNICEF will jointly manage the MDD indicator, focusing on two vulnerable population groups: Children and Women of reproductive age.
• Poor dietary diversity increases the risk of micronutrient deficiencies, particularly in these groups, leading to adverse health effects and impaired cognitive and physical development. Since no single food provides all essential nutrients, ensuring a diverse diet is key to long-term health.

How the MDD Indicator Works

• MDD functions as a yes/no measure, assessing whether women and children have consumed at least five out of the 10 defined food groups in the past 24 hours. The higher the proportion of individuals meeting this threshold, the better the dietary diversity in a population.

Impact on Policy and Future Food Systems

• Many countries already collect MDD data to inform their nutrition policies and programs. By integrating Minimum Dietary Diversity into the SDG framework, countries will be able to benchmark progress in promoting healthy diets.
• This also elevates dietary diversity as a priority in food system transformation, ensuring its inclusion in diet monitoring even beyond the SDG era.

SDG 2: Zero Hunger – The Larger Goal ·         Adopted in 2015, SDG 2 aims to eliminate hunger and promote sustainable agriculture. ·         Recognizes interconnections between food security, rural development, and nutrition. ·         Hunger remains a global crisis: 1) 757 million people faced hunger in 2023 (nearly 10% of the world population). 2) One in nine people worldwide sleeps hungry each night. 3) 20 million people are at immediate risk of famine in South Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Nigeria.

 

7) Kerala Protests Against Centre’s Offshore Mining Plan

GS 2: Polity and Governance: Centre’s mining project

Why is it in the news?

• Kerala has been witnessing protests against the Centre’s proposed offshore mining project. Recently, MPs and legislators staged a protest in Delhi, and earlier this month, the state Assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the Centre to drop the plan.
• The issue has raised concerns about environmental damage and threats to the livelihoods of fishermen.

Amended Offshore Mining Act

• The Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 (OAMDR Act), which governs mineral resource development in India’s maritime zones, was amended in 2023. Previously, offshore excavation was controlled by central government bodies like the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Indian Bureau of Mining, and Atomic Minerals Directorate.
• The amendment opened offshore mining to the private sector and introduced a competitive auction process for exploring offshore resources such as polymetallic nodules, lime-mud, and construction sand.
• In November 2023, the Centre launched the country’s first tranche of e-auctioning for 13 offshore blocks—three off the Kerala coast, three off Gujarat, and seven in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The proposed lease period is 50 years.

Mining Blocks off Kollam Coast

• A Geological Survey of India (GSI) study found that Kerala’s offshore region has a large deposit of construction-grade sand, estimated at 745 million tonnes.
• The proposed mining site, covering three blocks off the Kollam coast in southern Kerala, contains around 300 million tonnes of sand at depths ranging from 48 to 62 meters.

Offshore Areas and Centre’s Rights

• As per the OAMDR Act, “offshore areas” include territorial waters, the continental shelf, the exclusive economic zone, and other maritime zones of India. Section 2 of the Act gives the Centre exclusive control over mines and minerals in offshore areas.
• However, according to the Constitution’s Seventh Schedule, fishing and related activities up to 12 nautical miles fall under state jurisdiction.
• The Union mining ministry has clarified that the three mining blocks off the Kollam coast lie beyond 12 nautical miles and are thus not under Kerala’s control.

Concerns of the Fishermen Community

• Kerala has urged the Centre to abandon the mining plan, warning that it could cause irreversible damage to the fisheries sector, which supports around 11 lakh fishermen across 222 fishing villages.
• Kollam Parappu, also known as Quilon Bank, is one of the most productive fishing grounds along India’s southwest coast. Mining here is expected to reduce marine catch, cloud the water, and decrease the euphotic zone (where light penetration supports photosynthesis).
• Additionally, sediment plumes from mining could spread over thousands of square kilometres, harming fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. Mining may also release toxic substances into the sea, while large vessels used for excavation could disrupt fishing activities and endanger fishermen’s lives.
• Moreover, the entire royalty from mining would go to the Centre, leaving Kerala without financial benefits.

Union Government’s Response

• On March 16, Union Minister for Coal and Mines informed the Rajya Sabha that the offshore mining blocks were allocated only after excluding 130 marine protected areas across coastal states. Additionally, 106 Important Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Areas (ICMBAs) were identified to ensure marine conservation.
• The Centre also highlighted the formation of the Offshore Areas Mineral Trust, which includes coastal states as members. Funds from the trust could be used to mitigate ecological damage and support affected communities.
• However, the Kerala government and fishermen’s groups remain opposed to the project, citing environmental and livelihood concerns.

8) India’s Public Health System

GS 2: Society: Public healthcare system

Why is it in the news?

• The United States recently declared its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) and a reduction in financial support for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
• This decision has raised global concerns about its potential impact on international healthcare programs and aid-dependent health initiatives.

Why India’s Health Sector Remains Largely Unaffected

• Minimal Dependence on External Aid: India’s healthcare system is primarily self-funded, with foreign contributions making up only about 1% of total health spending. Government-backed programs like Ayushman Bharat operate independently, minimizing reliance on international grants.
• Robust Public Health Initiatives: India has long-standing, large-scale health programs such as the National Health Mission (NHM) and the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). The successful polio eradication campaign, for instance, was largely driven by government-led initiatives rather than foreign assistance.
• Dominance of Private Healthcare Providers: India’s healthcare landscape is significantly shaped by private entities, reducing the need for foreign-backed public health initiatives. Prominent hospital networks like Apollo Hospitals and Narayana Health function without reliance on external funding.
• Diverse Funding Channels: India receives financial support from multiple global organizations, ensuring that a reduction in USAID contributions does not severely impact its healthcare system. Programs addressing diseases like HIV/AIDS are supported by UNAIDS and the Global Fund, reducing dependency on U.S. aid.
• Increased Government Healthcare Investments: The Indian government has been consistently increasing budget allocations for healthcare, sustaining key public health programs. In the 2023-24 budget, ₹89,155 crore was allocated, supporting infrastructure expansion and insurance schemes without significant reliance on international funding.

Employment Struggles for Public Health Graduates

• Limited Public Sector Openings: Despite a growing number of Master of Public Health (MPH) graduates, government recruitment remains slow. Programs like the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) initially created roles for public health professionals, but hiring has since declined.
• Preference for Medical and Business Professionals: Private healthcare organizations often prioritize medical doctors and healthcare management professionals over MPH graduates. Leadership positions in hospitals are frequently filled by MBA (Healthcare) degree holders rather than public health specialists.
• Declining Foreign-Funded Opportunities: Many NGOs and research institutions depend on international grants, which have been shrinking due to U.S. budget cuts. Organizations working on tuberculosis prevention, for example, have faced financial constraints, reducing job opportunities for public health professionals.
• Insufficient Practical Exposure: Many MPH programs in India focus primarily on theory, with limited fieldwork opportunities. Institutes like the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) provide strong internship-based training, while some private universities offer minimal hands-on experience.
• Absence of a Dedicated Public Health Cadre: Unlike other nations, India lacks a structured Public Health Management Cadre (PHMC) to integrate MPH professionals into government roles. While states like Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have proposed frameworks, nationwide implementation remains pending.

Concerns Over Public Health Education Quality

• Variability in Curriculum Standards: The absence of a standardized curriculum leads to inconsistencies in training across institutions. For instance, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) emphasizes social determinants of health, whereas Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) focuses more on epidemiology and biostatistics.
• Limited Hands-On Training: Many universities provide insufficient field experience, making graduates less prepared for practical challenges. Institutions like PHFI offer strong government-linked internships, whereas newer private universities often lack such exposure.
• Shortage of Experienced Faculty: Several public health institutions face faculty shortages, affecting the quality of education. While established universities like Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have qualified faculty, many private institutions struggle to recruit experienced professionals, relying instead on general medical or social science faculty.

Government Measures to Strengthen Public Health Education

• Establishment of Public Health Institutes: The government has set up specialized institutions like the All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health (AIIHPH) and the National Institute of Public Health Training & Research (NIPHTR) to improve public health training.
• Integration of Public Health Professionals into Government Programs: Various national initiatives now employ MPH graduates in health policy, epidemiology, and disease control. Programs like NHM and Ayushman Bharat actively recruit public health specialists.
• Development of a Public Health Workforce Cadre: Several states, including Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, have taken steps toward creating a structured cadre for MPH graduates within government healthcare services, though implementation remains in progress.
• Skill Development and Research Training: Institutions such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are strengthening training in epidemiology, biostatistics, and research methodologies to enhance skill development.
• Standardization of Public Health Education: Efforts are underway to introduce uniform academic standards for MPH programs. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has proposed guidelines to regulate public health education, with discussions ongoing regarding the establishment of a central regulatory authority.

Way Forward

• Creating a National Public Health Cadre: A well-defined Public Health Management Cadre (PHMC) at both central and state levels would provide structured career pathways for MPH graduates. While states like Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have made progress, a nationwide framework is necessary.
• Implementing a Uniform MPH Curriculum: A regulatory body such as the National Medical Commission (NMC) or UGC should oversee the standardization of MPH programs, ensuring a balance between theoretical learning and practical skills. Defining essential competencies in epidemiology, health policy, and program management would improve graduate employability.