InstaLinks : help you think beyond the issue but relevant to the issue from UPSC prelims and Mains exam point of view. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions ina your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background. This helps you study a topic holistically and add new dimensions to every current event to help you think analytically
Table of Contents:
GS Paper 1:
- India Ageing, Elderly to Make Up 20% of Population by 2050: UNFPA Report
GS Paper 4:
- Examples of Ethics ( Anti-Smoking Warnings on OTT platforms, Humans of Bombay vs. People of India)
Content for Mains Enrichment
- Applying the “Sponge City” concept in Bengaluru
- Young Activists Sue 32 Governments at European Court
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
- 53rd Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award
- Using Newspapers for handling food
- National Policy on Research & Development and Innovation in the Pharma-MedTech Sector
- RoDTEP scheme
- Social bonds
- Breakthrough Agenda Report 2023
- PET46
- Balsams
Sports:
- Esports in Asian Games (Hangzhou)
Mapping
- Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary
Examples of Ethics ( Anti-Smoking Warnings on OTT platforms, Humans of Bombay vs. People of India)
GS Paper 4
Syllabus: Applications of Ethics
Source: IE
Example 1: Anti-Smoking Warnings on OTT platforms
Should films and TV series on OTT platforms like Hotstar, Amazon and Netflix have long-duration smoking warnings?
The central government had issued new rules on the matter in May (2023), but streaming websites had raised some objections
Legal perspective: The Cinematograph Act of 1952 prohibited the “glamorization” of tobacco in movies, and the Cable Television Networks Amendment Act of 2000 banned tobacco advertising on cable TV.
Ethical Perspectives:
| Ethical Dilemma | Description |
| Freedom of Expression vs. Public Health | Balancing filmmakers’ freedom of expression with the need for anti-smoking warnings to protect public health. |
| Health Awareness vs. Artistic Integrity | Balancing raising awareness of smoking’s health risks with preserving the artistic integrity of content |
| Corporate Interests vs. Public Health | Considering tobacco industry interests versus broader public health goals. |
| Cultural Sensitivity vs. Regulation | Applying Indian regulations to international content raises questions about cultural sensitivity and ethics |
Example 2: “Humans of Bombay vs. People of India”
The case involves a copyright infringement suit filed by Humans of Bombay (HOB) against People of India (POI), an Instagram account that tells stories of common people similar to HOB.
The Delhi High Court issued a summons to POI, acknowledging substantial imitation of HOB’s storytelling and identical or imitative use of images on both platforms.
Ethical Issues concerned:
| Ethical Issue | Description |
| Copyright Violation | Ethical concerns about the unauthorized use of HOB’s creative content by POI, potentially infringing on intellectual property rights. |
| Goodwill and Reputation | The use of a similar format to capitalize on the goodwill and reputation built by HOB potentially harms fair competition and integrity |
| Social Media Ethics | Considerations about ethical behaviour on social media platforms, including respecting the creative efforts of others. |
| Economic Implications of Reputation | Ethical discussions on how the use of HOB’s content by POI could have economic implications and affect HOB’s sustainability. |
Terms Used:
Copyright Infringement: Copyright refers to the rights given to creators of various works.
Passing Off: It involves situations where the nature, character, or performance of rival goods or services are similar, causing deception, misrepresentation, or harm to the goodwill of the original creator. To claim passing off, there must be an attempt to obtain an economic benefit from another’s reputation.
India Ageing, Elderly to Make Up 20% of Population by 2050: UNFPA Report
GS1/ GS2 Paper
Syllabus: Indian Society/ Government Policies and Interventions/ Vulnerable sections
Context: The United Nations Population Fund, India, has released the “2023 India Ageing Report,” which projects a significant increase in the elderly population in India
Major Findings of the Report:
| Findings | Description |
| Elderly Population Growth | The population of people aged 80+ years is projected to grow by around 279% between 2022 and 2050. |
| By 2046 it is likely that the elderly population will have surpassed the population of children (aged 0 to 15 years) in the country | |
| Elderly Population Share | By 2050, the elderly population in India is expected to make up over 20% of the total population (The present share of elderly is about 10% in 2021 ) |
| Poverty Among the Elderly | More than 40% of the elderly in India are in the poorest wealth quintile, with over 18% having no income. |
| Gender Differences in Life Expectancy | Women, on average, have a longer life expectancy compared to men, with variations across states. |
| Sex Ratio Among the Elderly | The sex ratio among the elderly is increasing, indicating longer survival of women compared to men. |
| Gendered Poverty in Old Age | Poverty is gendered in old age, with older women more likely to be widowed, living alone, and dependent on family support. |
| Challenges in Demographic Transition | Significant inter-state variations in the elderly population reflect different stages of demographic transition. |
| Policy Recommendations | The report suggests policies to address the feminization and ruralization of the elderly population, increase awareness of schemes for older persons, and promote in-situ ageing. |
Policy recommendations from the “2023 India Ageing Report”:
| Recommendations | Description |
| Address Gender-Specific Challenges | Policies should specifically address the challenges faced by older women, including widowed and dependent elderly women. |
| Promote In-Situ Aging | Encourage and facilitate ageing at home (in-situ ageing) where possible, ensuring that elderly individuals can stay within their communities. |
| Increase Awareness of Schemes | Raise awareness about government schemes and programs designed for older persons, ensuring they can access necessary support. |
| Regulate Old Age Homes | Implement regulatory measures to oversee Old Age Homes, ensuring the well-being and rights of residents. |
| Inclusion in Data Collection Exercises | Include relevant questions related to older persons in national data collection exercises to gather credible data on elderly issues. |
| Focus on Multigenerational Households | Encourage elderly individuals to live in multigenerational households, promoting better care and support within families. |
Other aspects of Ageing:
Effects of globalization on India’s ageing population:
Positive Effects:
| Effects | Description |
| Access to Healthcare | Globalization has improved healthcare facilities and technologies, enhancing the health of the elderly. |
| Economic Opportunities | New economic opportunities have improved the financial situation of elderly citizens relying on savings or pensions. |
| Technology Access | Increased technology access enables elderly citizens to stay connected with family worldwide. |
| Social Inclusion | Globalization fosters social inclusion and participation by introducing new cultures and lifestyles. |
Negative Effects:
| Effects | Description |
| Ageism | Globalization has led to ageism, devaluing the role of the elderly in society. |
| Economic Insecurity | Economic insecurity has arisen due to job loss or reduced savings resulting from globalization’s impact on the economy. |
| Social Isolation | Changing family structures and urban migration of younger generations have increased social isolation among the elderly. |
| Health Risks | Unhealthy lifestyles, like processed food consumption, lack of physical activity, and pollution exposure, have increased health risks for the elderly. |
Challenges faced by women in old age due to rising life expectancy and widowhood:
| Challenges | Description |
| Financial Dependence | Limited access to employment opportunities, lower wages, and inadequate savings can lead to financial dependence in old age. |
| Deteriorating Health | Aging can bring deteriorating health, including chronic diseases, mobility issues, and mental health challenges. |
| Social Isolation | Older women, especially widows, may experience social isolation and loneliness due to the loss of a spouse and limited social networks. |
| Rural Situation | Older women in rural areas face unique challenges like limited access to healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, and caregiving or agricultural burdens. |
| Intersectionality | Women from marginalized communities may face compounded challenges in old age due to their socio-economic background, and tribal or minority status. |
| Ageism and Misogyny | Older women may encounter ageism and misogyny, leading to stereotypes, discrimination, and limited opportunities for engagement in various aspects of life. |
Suggested measures:
| Measures | Description |
| Social Security Systems | E.g., Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam is a women’s rights grant scheme just rolled out in Tamil Nadu aimed at providing financial support to eligible women recognized as heads of families |
| Karnataka Gruha Lakshmi Scheme supports women heads of families by providing eligible women will receive financial assistance of ₹2000 per month. | |
| Intergenerational programs: Programs that promote intergenerational bonding, such as mentorship programs and community service projects | |
| Access to Healthcare | Improve access to healthcare services, including geriatric care, preventive screenings, and mental health support, to address the specific health needs of older women. |
| Social Inclusion | Promote social inclusion and active participation of older women through community-based programs, intergenerational activities, and support networks. |
| Civil Society Engagement | Community-based initiatives and CSO engagement through Senior citizen clubs and programs, can provide social support and help prevent social isolation among the elderly |
| E.g. Asha Deep Foundation provides Day Care Centre for the elderly members of our community who are either neglected, have no children or are abandoned by their families. | |
| Demographic Stability | Focus on policies and programs that address population ageing and the needs of older women, such as promoting family planning, women’s empowerment, and intergenerational solidarity. |
| Community-based care system for elders | ASHA program could be used for building a community-based workforce to support the diverse health and social care needs of elders |
| Age-friendly cities | Cities can be designed to be age-friendly, with infrastructure and public spaces that are accessible to all, including elderly citizens. |
Government Scheme for Old Age:
| Scheme | About |
| National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) | Offers non-contributory pensions for the elderly, widowed women, and disabled individuals. Administered by the Ministry of Rural Development. |
| Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) | Exclusive pension scheme for senior citizens aged 60 and above. Extended up to 2023 for three more years beyond 2020. |
| Integrated Program for Older Persons (IPOP) | Aims to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens by providing basic amenities such as food, shelter, medical care, and entertainment opportunities. |
| Rashtriya Vayoshree Yojana | Central sector scheme funded by the Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund. Provides aids and assistive living devices to elderly BPL individuals with age-related disabilities. |
| SAMPANN Project | Launched in 2018, an online pension processing system for Department of Telecommunications pensioners. Direct credit of pension into bank accounts of pensioners. |
| SACRED Portal for Elderly | Developed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Citizens above 60 can register to find jobs, and work opportunities, and access information and guidance on various issues. |
| Elder Line: Toll-Free Number for Elderly | Provides information, guidance, emotional support, and immediate assistance for elderly citizens, particularly on pension, medical, and legal matters. |
| SAGE (Seniorcare Ageing Growth Engine) Initiative | A platform offering access to elderly care products and services by credible start-ups, supporting entrepreneurship in the field of elderly care. |
Conclusion:
By recognizing the specific needs of older persons and providing targeted support, we can create a society that values and empowers them, ensuring their well-being and active participation in all spheres of life.
About UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund):
It is a UN agency (founded 1969; HQ: New York) dedicated to enhancing global reproductive and maternal health. It works on national healthcare strategies, access to birth control, and campaigns against child marriage, gender-based violence, obstetric fistula, and female genital mutilation. Operating in over 144 countries across four regions, it’s a key member of the United Nations Development Group, focusing on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. UNFPA has been operating in India since 1974
Insta Links:
Mains Links:
Despite Consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive. (UPSC 2021)
Prelims Links:
Which of the following is/are the principal UN organs?
- UN Security Council
- The Economic and Social Council
- The Trusteeship Council and the Secretariat
- World Health Organization (WHO)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2, 3 and 4 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: (a)
Applying the “Sponge City” concept in Bengaluru
Content for Mains Enrichment
Source: TH
Bengaluru faces recurrent flash floods due to erratic rains driven by climate change. Experts suggest applying the “Spong City” Concept by building massive underground tanks in low-lying areas to capture floodwater, a concept successfully implemented in cities like Munich, Beijing, Tokyo, and Pittsburgh.
What is the “Sponge City” concept?
It focuses on retaining and managing water at its source to mitigate flooding and groundwater depletion. It involves strategies like permeable pavements, rooftop gardens, underground tanks and ponds to absorb and store rainwater.
These measures help slow down water flow, naturally filter it, and recharge groundwater. The aim is to make urban areas act like sponges, soaking up rainwater and reducing the risk of floods while replenishing local water resources.
For Issues with the “Sponge City”?: Click Here
Usage: The example can be used in Governance/ Disaster Management Questions.
53rd Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: PIB
Waheeda Rehman will receive the 53rd Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for 2021. The award will be presented at the 69th National Film Awards ceremony.
About Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award:
It is India’s highest cinema honour and is presented annually at the National Film Awards ceremony by the Directorate of Film Festivals. It was established in 1969 and was first awarded to actress Devika Rani. This award commemorates Dadasaheb Phalke, the director of India’s inaugural full-length feature film, “Raja Harishchandra,” in 1913. The prize includes a Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion, a shawl, and a cash prize of 10 lakh.
About Waheeda Rehman:
Waheeda Rehman is an Indian actress regarded as one of Hindi cinema’s most accomplished actresses. Her accolades include a National Film Award, Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan honours and three Filmfare Awards. She is renowned for her roles in iconic Hindi films like “Pyaasa,” “Kaagaz ke Phool,” and “Guide.”
Using Newspapers for handling food
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has urged consumers and food vendors to stop using newspapers for packing, serving, and storing food due to health hazards.
Issues with using Newspaper for handling food:
| Issue | Description |
| Ink Contamination | Newspapers contain ink with bioactive materials that can contaminate food and pose health risks. |
| Recycled paper boxes can also have contaminants like mineral oils and chemicals, potentially causing digestive problems and toxicity | |
| Chemical Leaching | Printing inks may contain chemicals, including lead and heavy metals, which can leach into food. |
| Susceptible to Contamination | Newspapers are exposed to various environmental conditions during distribution, making them susceptible to bacterial or viral contamination. |
| Potential Foodborne Illness | Contaminants from newspapers can lead to foodborne illnesses when ingested. |
| Absorbs Excess Oil | Newspapers should not be used to absorb excess oil from fried food as per regulations. |
| Vulnerable Groups | Vulnerable groups, like the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, are at greater risk of cancer-related health issues from food packed in such materials. |
| Violation of Regulations | According to the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, the use of newspapers or similar materials for storing and wrapping food is strictly prohibited. |
About FSSAI:
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (est. 2008; HQ: New Delhi) is an autonomous statutory body (under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006) established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
National Policy on Research & Development and Innovation in the Pharma-MedTech Sector
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: Economic Times
Context: The Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers and Minister of Health & Family Welfare in India, has launched a significant initiative known as the National Policy on Research and Development and Innovation in the Pharma-MedTech Sector.
- This policy aims to transform India’s pharmaceutical and medical technology industries from being cost-based to becoming value-based and innovation-driven.
Key Highlights:
- Transformation Goals: The need to shift the focus of India’s pharmaceutical and MedTech sectors towards innovation and value creation.
- Ecosystem Building: The policy seeks to establish an ecosystem that fosters skills and capacities, involving academia and the private sector.
- Prioritizing Research and Development: Importance of research and development to achieve self-reliance in pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
- Infrastructure Development: The scheme aims to develop world-class research infrastructure at institutions like NIPERs (National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research) and other research institutes.
- Focus on Priority Areas: The initiative identifies specific priority areas to enhance India’s pharmaceutical industry’s global position.
- Economic Growth and Employment: The scheme anticipates that the launch of commercially viable products will accelerate the growth of India’s pharmaceutical sector.
- Healthcare Solutions: One of the objectives is to develop affordable and accessible healthcare solutions for primary health concerns, thereby reducing the healthcare burden on the nation.
RoDTEP scheme
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: Business Standard
Context: The Indian government has announced the extension of export benefits under the Scheme for Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) for an additional year, until June 2024.
- The RoDTEP scheme provides exporters with refunds for taxes, duties, and levies incurred during the manufacturing and distribution of goods, which are not reimbursed through other mechanisms at the central, state, or local levels.
- This move is expected to assist the exporting community in negotiating international export contracts under the current global economic conditions.
The RoDTEP scheme replaced the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), which concluded the previous year.
Tags: GS3, Economy, RoDTEP scheme
Social bonds
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: Business Line
Context: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has successfully raised Rs 1,040.50 crore through a five-year social bond.
- The social bonds issued by NABARD have received ‘AAA’ ratings from CRISIL and ICRA, and they will be listed on the BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange).
- NABARD recently introduced a Sustainability Bond Framework, aimed at financing and refinancing green and social projects.
Social bonds are a type of financial instrument or investment vehicle issued by governments, companies, or organizations to raise capital for projects or initiatives with a specific social or environmental purpose. These bonds are typically designed to fund projects that have a positive impact on society or address social and environmental challenges.
Breakthrough Agenda Report 2023
Source: Economic Times
Context: The Breakthrough Agenda Report 2023 is an annual collaboration between the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and the United Nations Climate Change High-Level Champions.
- Its focus is on strengthening international cooperation to accelerate the reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Findings:
- The report evaluates progress made since 2022 in priority areas for global collaboration.
- It offers recommendations for countries to work together in these sectors to reduce emissions over the next decade and mitigate the worst effects of climate change.
- The report acknowledges the accelerating transition to clean energy and sustainable solutions in various sectors, particularly in technologies like electric vehicles and solar PV.
- It notes that electric passenger cars are expected to represent 18% of total car sales in 2023, and clean energy technology investments are surpassing spending on fossil fuels.
- However, some high-emission and challenging-to-decarbonize sectors, including steel, hydrogen, and agriculture, are not transitioning rapidly enough, despite progress in certain aspects.
The report highlights modest progress in strengthening international collaboration over the past year, with expanded financial assistance to developing countries and increased joint research and development initiatives.
PET46
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: Phys org
Context: A recent study involving scientists from Kiel University (Germany) has discovered a deep-sea enzyme, PET46, capable of continuously breaking down PET plastic, commonly found in plastic bottles.
About PET46:
PET46 has unique properties, such as the ability to degrade long-chain and short-chain PET molecules, making it valuable for biotechnology applications. This research is part of the PLASTISEA project and sheds light on the potential for plastic waste degradation in the sea and on land.
What is PET plastic?
PET plastic, or polyethylene terephthalate, is a common type of plastic used to make bottles, containers, and synthetic fibres. It is known for its transparency, lightweight nature, and recyclability. PET is widely used for packaging beverages, food, and personal care products.
Previously, Researchers from the University of Cambridge had created a system to turn PET plastic waste and greenhouse gases into sustainable fuels and valuable products using solar energy.
Balsams
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: In Munnar, a popular tourist destination in India, balsams (genus Impatiens) are currently in full bloom, providing a delightful visual spectacle.
- Balsams are sometimes referred to as ‘touch-me-not’ due to their tendency to burst and distribute mature seeds upon touch.
- Balsams are considered significant indicator species for climate change, reflecting alterations in plant populations when climate change occurs.
Idukki district, where Munnar is located, is renowned for its diverse range of balsams, earning it the nickname of a “balsam paradise” among scientists. The high-altitude areas surrounding Anamudi, the highest mountain in the Western Ghats, are particularly known for their rich diversity of wild balsams.
Esports in Asian Games (Hangzhou)
Sports:
Source: Olympics
Esports officially debuted as an official event at the Asian Games 2023 (in Hangzhou, China), featuring seven top titles, including League of Legends, and involving teams from over 30 countries.
The competition included both PC and mobile games, covering multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) and single-player genres. Gold medals were awarded for each game.
What is Esports?
Esports, short for electronic sports, refers to organized competitive video gaming. It involves individuals or teams competing in various video games at a professional level, often in tournaments with significant prizes.
More about Esports:
- Esports was previously featured as a demonstration sport at the Jakarta Asian Games (2018) and proved highly popular.
- Esports inclusion in the Olympics remains uncertain, with concerns about violent or discriminatory content in some games.
- Notably, winning a gold medal in esports at the Asian Games could exempt South Korean players from compulsory military service.
What are the types of online gaming?
- E-sports(well-organized electronic sports which include professional players),
- Fantasy sports
- Casual games: these can be either skill-based (mental skill) or chance-based (based on a random activity like a roll of a dice) online games.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary
Mapping
Source: DTE
Bihar is getting its second tiger reserve in Kaimur (Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary), expected to be established by the end of 2023 or early 2024. The need for a second reserve arose as the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (Bihar’s 1st tiger reserve) reached its capacity to manage tigers.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar’s largest, covers Kaimur and Rohtas Districts. Established in 1979, it features diverse forest types, rare flora and fauna, and historical sites like Rohtasgarh Fort and Shergarh Fort. The government plans to convert it into a Tiger Reserve.
Download the Daily Current Affairs in PDF Format here
Follow us on our Official TELEGRAM Channel HERE
Subscribe to Our Official YouTube Channel HERE
Please subscribe to Our podcast channel HERE
Official Facebook Page HERE
Follow our Twitter Account HERE
Follow our Instagram Account HERE
Follow us on LinkedIn: HERE
