24 March | Daily Current Affairs : India imposes anti-dumping duty on Chinese goods for up to 5 years And More

GS PAPER 1

 Indian Economy

India has imposed anti-dumping duties on five Chinese products to safeguard domestic industries from unfair trade practices. The affected products include:

• Soft ferrite cores used in electric vehicles, chargers, and telecom devices
• Vacuum insulated flasks
• Aluminium foil
• Trichloro isocyanuric acid used in water treatment
• Poly vinyl chloride (PVC) paste resin

The decision follows an investigation by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies, which found that these products were being exported to India at below normal prices, hurting domestic manufacturers.

Key Highlights of the Anti-Dumping Duty

• Most duties are imposed for five years, while aluminium foil faces a provisional duty for six months.

• Range of duties:

  • Soft ferrite cores – Up to 35 percent of CIF value
  • Vacuum insulated flasks – 1,732 dollars per tonne
  • Trichloro isocyanuric acid – 276 to 986 dollars per tonne, also applied to imports from Japan
  • Poly vinyl chloride paste resin – 89 to 707 dollars per tonne, also covering imports from Korea RP, Malaysia, Norway, Taiwan, and Thailand
  • Aluminium foil – Up to 873 dollars per tonne for six months

• Economic and Trade Implications

  • Protects domestic industries from cheap imports that could otherwise dominate the market
  • Supports local manufacturing and encourages self-reliance in key industrial sectors
  • Aligns with India’s trade defense policies to counter unfair trade practices
  • Serves as an economic response to trade imbalances with China and promotes a balanced import policy

Conclusion

• The imposition of anti-dumping duties reflects India’s commitment to fair trade practices and protecting domestic industries. It also complements broader economic initiatives like self-reliance and reduces dependence on low-cost imports that undermine local production.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Ques:What is anti-dumping duty? Discuss its significance in protecting domestic industries from unfair trade practices.(250 words)

GS PAPER 2

Social Justice : Health

A recent study from Denmark, published in Behavior Genetics, has found that the decision to get a tattoo is influenced more by cultural and environmental factors rather than genetic predisposition. This challenges the notion that personal choices like tattooing are inherited traits.

Key Findings of the Study:

• Twins and Concordance:

  • Researchers examined identical (monozygotic) and fraternal (dizygotic) twins to determine if genetics played a role in getting tattoos.
  • Identical twins share 100% of their genes, while fraternal twins share 50% on average.
  • If tattoos were genetic, identical twins would have a higher concordance rate than fraternal twins. However, the study found no such difference.

• Influence of Nurture:

  • The study used data from the Danish Twin Register (DTR), surveying 4,790 individuals.
  • A significant increase in tattooing was observed over generations:
  • Before 1960: <6% had tattoos.
  • 1981-2004 cohort: >30% had tattoos.
  • This indicates that tattooing has become more culturally acceptable over time rather than being biologically inherited.

• Lifestyle Correlation:

  • The study found a strong correlation between tattooing and smoking.
  • No clear link was established between tattooing and alcohol consumption or exercise habits.

Comparison with Other Genetic Studies:

• Birth Defects & Genetics:

  • In a 2021 study from South Korea, genetic influence was significant in defects affecting the nervous, circulatory, urinary systems, and cleft lip/palate.
  • However, defects in the eye, ear, face, neck, and musculoskeletal system were more influenced by environmental factors.

• Significance of the Study:

  • Public Health Considerations: Since tattooing involves injecting foreign substances into the skin, its long-term effects remain an area of medical research.
  • Cultural Evolution: The rise in tattooing over generations reflects societal changes rather than inherited tendencies.

Conclusion:

• The study reaffirms that tattooing is a cultural choice rather than a genetic trait. Over time, societal acceptance has led to a rise in tattooing, making it an interesting case study of nature vs. nurture in human behavior.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Ques :Tattooing involves inserting foreign substances into the body. Analyze the public health risks associated with tattooing and suggest regulatory measures.(250 words)

GS PAPER 3

Prelims fact

Lapis lazuli, a deep blue semi-precious gemstone, has been highly valued for millennia due to its striking color and historical significance. The rock is primarily composed of the mineral lazurite and is found in various regions, with the highest quality sourced from Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province.

Key Features of Lapis Lazuli:

• Composition:

  • Main mineral: Lazurite (25-40%), responsible for its blue color.
  • Other minerals: Pyrite (giving golden streaks), Calcite (can reduce blueness), Diopside, Sodalite (in minor quantities).

• Geographical Occurrence:

  • Found in Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, and the US.
  • Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province has produced the finest quality for over 6,000 years.

• Historical Significance:

  • Indus Valley Civilization (Mohenjo-daro, Harappa): Used in ornaments and trade.
  • Ancient Egypt: Used in jewelry and cosmetics (eye shadow).
  • Renaissance Europe: Ground into ultramarine pigment for high-value paintings.

• Etymology:

  • Lapis (Latin) = “Stone”
  • Lazuli (Persian: Lazhward) = “Blue”.

GS PAPER 4

Indian Economy

• With ongoing global maritime crises, including the Red Sea conflict and U.S. tariffs on Chinese-built ships, India’s dependence on foreign shipping fleets is a growing concern. The Indian government’s plan to launch Bharat Container Line (BCL) aims to strengthen India’s maritime industry, reduce dependence on foreign vessels, and enhance trade security.

Key Issues in India’s Shipping Sector:

1. Heavy Dependence on Foreign Shipping Fleets

• 95% of India’s trade (by volume) is carried through maritime transport.
• India’s shipping fleet consists of just over 1,500 ships (14 million GT), with fewer than 50 container ships, mainly for coastal trade.
• Foreign shipping companies like Maersk, MSC, CMA-CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd dominate India’s cargo transport.

2. High Shipping Costs

• India’s annual shipping expenses: $90 billion, second only to crude oil imports.
• Heavy reliance on leased Chinese-origin containers increases logistics costs.
• New U.S. tariffs on Chinese ships ($1 million+ per port call) could further impact shipping costs.

3. Strategic and Economic Risks

• Global trade disruptions (e.g., Red Sea crisis) impact India’s supply chains.
• Lack of an indigenous fleet weakens India’s trade security during geopolitical conflicts.
• Tariffs imposed by third countries (like the U.S.) could impact India’s exports.

Government Initiatives to Strengthen India’s Shipping Industry

1. Bharat Container Line (BCL) – A National Shipping Fleet

• Aims to reduce reliance on foreign ships and enhance India’s control over shipping routes.
• Expected to increase competition in intra-Asia shipping and improve cost efficiencies.
• However, with an initial fleet of 100 vessels, BCL would still be a small player in the global market.

2. ₹25,000 Crore Maritime Development Fund

• Aims to boost shipbuilding capacity and reduce foreign exchange outflows.
• ₹18,090 crore shipbuilding financial assistance policy will help expand domestic manufacturing.

3. Tax and Policy Reforms to Support Indian Shipbuilding

• GST exemptions and lower customs duties on shipbuilding components.
• Indian Shipyards Association demands reforms to address the inverted duty structure in GST.
• Cochin Shipyard Ltd. and others have nearly ₹1,000 crore in unutilized Input Tax Credit (ITC), affecting cash flow.

4. Strengthening Domestic Shipbuilding Industry

• Need for improved automation and efficiency in shipyards to compete with China.
• India lacks ship-grade aluminium and specialized steel, leading to import dependence.
• Proposed policy to scrap vessels aged above 25 years to modernize fleet.

 UPSC Mains Practice Question

Ques : India’s dependence on foreign shipping fleets is a strategic and economic risk. Discuss the need for indigenous shipbuilding and the steps taken by the government to strengthen the sector.(250 words)

 In News :Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary

The Punjab government, in its affidavit submitted before the Supreme Court (SC) recently, stated that the Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary limit will remain at 100 meters for the Nayagaon municipal committee instead of 1 to 3 km.

About Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary

• It is a protected area located in Chandigarh, near the famous Sukhna Lake at the foothills of the Shivalik range.
• The lake was created by the architect Le Corbusier in 1958 by diverting the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream that flows down from the Shivalik hills.
• The sanctuary was developed as a result of afforestation done for soil conservation around Sukhna Lake.
• Spreading over an area of 2600 hectares, Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1998.
• The place is quite unstable geographically and becomes prone to soil erosion by surface runoff during rains.
• It has sandy soil of Shivalik with pockets of clay embedded at places.
• Apart from the Sukhna Lake, there are around 150 small and large water bodies in the sanctuary that form its catchment area.
• Vegetation: It is characterized by a mix of forests, grasslands, and wetlands, with the Sukhna Lake forming an important part of the ecosystem.
• Flora: The common flora of the sanctuary includes Khair, Phulai, Kikar, Shisham, Moonj, Amaltas, Jhingan, Amla, Rati, Vasaka, and many more.
• Fauna:
  • Squirrel, Common-Mongoose, Indian Hare, Porcupine, Jungle Cat, Jackal, Wild boar, etc, are the mammals found in the sanctuary.
  • Peacock, Hill myna, Jungle crow, Black drongo, Parrots, Doves, and others are the common birds of this region. Migratory birds also flock around this place.

GS PAPER 5

Editorial Analysis

Context :

• Integrating TB services into the public health system is essential for ensuring fair and universal healthcare for everyone in India.

What are the key advancements India has made in tuberculosis (TB) care?

• Expansion of Molecular Testing for Rapid Detection: India has significantly expanded molecular testing, enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis of TB and drug-resistant TB. Example: Introduction of CBNAAT (Cartridge-Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) and TrueNat machines in primary health centers for early detection.
• Improved Drug Regimens & Shorter Treatment Duration: Newer drug combinations have reduced treatment duration for drug-resistant TB, increasing patient compliance. Example: The shorter BPaL regimen (Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, and Linezolid) has improved MDR-TB cure rates and reduced mortality.
• Better Access to Free & Effective Treatment: Government programs like the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) provide free TB medicines, improving adherence and reducing deaths. Example: MDR-TB patients receiving Bedaquiline and Delamanid have better survival rates compared to traditional toxic injectable treatments.
• Enhanced Nutritional and Financial Support: The Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) doubled financial assistance from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per month for TB patients to ensure proper nutrition. Example: Over 40 lakh patients have benefited from direct benefit transfers under this scheme.
• Integration of TB Services with Primary Healthcare: TB care is now incorporated into the Ayushman Bharat scheme, linking it with Health and Wellness Centres (Ayushman Arogya Mandirs). Example: These centers serve as sputum collection points and treatment hubs, improving accessibility for rural and urban populations.
• Community Engagement and Preventive Strategies: Expansion of TB preventive therapy and involvement of TB survivors as “TB Champions” to promote awareness and early detection. Example: The “100 Days” campaign aims to improve case detection and ensure early intervention for high-risk populations.

How have these advancements contributed to a decline in TB incidence and mortality rates?

• Decline in TB Incidence: In 2015, TB incidence in India was 237 per lakh population. By 2022, it had dropped to below 200 per lakh, showing a 16% decline. Example: If 237 people per lakh had TB in 2015, now fewer than 200 per lakh are affected.
• Reduction in TB Mortality: TB mortality declined from higher levels in 2015 to 23 per lakh population in 2022. This represents an 18% decline in TB-related deaths. Example: If 100,000 people were affected, 23 would die from TB in 2022 compared to a higher number in 2015.

Who are the most vulnerable groups affected by TB?

• People with Weakened Immune Systems: Individuals with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, malnutrition, or chronic illnesses are more susceptible due to weaker immunity. Example: TB is the leading cause of death among people with HIV, as their immune system cannot effectively fight the infection.
• Low-Income & Undernourished Populations: Malnutrition and poverty increase TB risk by weakening immunity and limiting access to healthcare. Example: In India, undernourished populations, especially in tribal and slum areas, have higher TB incidence due to poor living conditions.
• Migrants, Prisoners, and Urban Slum Dwellers: Overcrowded and poorly ventilated environments increase TB transmission. Example: Migrant workers living in congested dormitories or prison inmates are at a higher risk of infection due to close contact with infected individuals.

Gender & Tuberculosis: Challenges, Data, and Solutions

Category	Challenges	Data & Examples	Solutions
Women & TB	Social Stigma and Fear of Isolation	60% of women diagnosed with TB in India face stigma (REACH, 2022).	Community awareness campaigns like “TB Mukt Mahila” in Uttar Pradesh.
	Misdiagnosis & Underreporting	Only 34% of TB cases in women are officially diagnosed (WHO, 2019).	Gender-sensitive diagnostic protocols in PHCs. Routine TB screening during maternal health checkups (Rajasthan model).
	Limited Healthcare Access	50% of rural women delay TB treatment due to financial dependence (Global TB Report, 2023). Example: Bihar’s ASHA workers report women refusing solo hospital visits, delaying treatment.	Mobile TB clinics and door-to-door screenings.
	Higher Risk of Malnutrition	45% of women with TB suffer from malnutrition (NFHS, 2023). Example: 80% of TB-infected women in Jharkhand lack protein-rich diets, increasing dropout rates.	Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana benefits for women, with an extra ₹500 allowance in Madhya Pradesh.
Children & TB	Non-Specific Symptoms & Misdiagnosis	60% of childhood TB cases present with fever and weight loss, not cough (IAP, 2022).	AI-based diagnostic tools like Bihar’s AI-assisted TB detection, which increased early diagnosis by 28%.
	Sputum Test Ineffectiveness	40-50% of children’s TB cases are undetectable using standard sputum tests (WHO, 2023). Example: Delhi’s AIIMS introduced stool-based PCR testing, increasing childhood TB detection by 25%.	Nationwide adoption of stool-based PCR tests.
	Late Detection in Infants	30% of TB meningitis cases in infants are fatal due to delayed screening.	Routine TB screening during childhood immunizations.
	Malnutrition & Weak Immunity	Malnourished children are six times more likely to develop TB (WHO, 2023). Example: 90% of TB-infected children in Jharkhand were also undernourished.	Integrate TB screening with anganwadi nutrition programs.
	Exposure to Household TB	50% of children living with TB-infected adults develop latent TB, but only 15% receive preventive therapy (Nikshay Portal, 2023). Example: Kerala’s preventive therapy program reduced childhood TB cases by 40%.	Preventive therapy for all children in TB-affected households.
	Lack of Awareness Among Parents	70% of parents believe TB only affects adults (UP survey, 2023). Example: Schools in Gujarat introduced annual TB screening camps, improving early detection.	Mandatory TB screening in schools and anganwadis. Maharashtra’s “TB-Free Schools” program detected 5,000 hidden cases in 2023.

 

 

Why is the integration of TB services within the broader public health system crucial for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in India?

• Ensures Comprehensive and Equitable Healthcare Access: Integrating TB services into primary healthcare allows early detection and treatment for all, especially marginalized populations. Example: Including TB screening in Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) improves outreach in rural areas.
• Reduces Financial Burden on Patients: Universal Health Coverage (UHC) aims to provide affordable treatment and minimize out-of-pocket expenses for TB care. Example: Linking TB care with PM-JAY (Ayushman Bharat) ensures free diagnostic and treatment services, reducing financial distress.
• Improves Early Detection and Treatment Outcomes: Strengthening public health infrastructure with integrated screening programs improves early diagnosis and treatment adherence. Example: Nikshay Poshan Yojana provides nutritional support to TB patients, improving recovery and treatment success rates.
• Addresses Co-Morbidities and Holistic Patient Care: TB patients often suffer from HIV, diabetes, or malnutrition; integration helps manage co-existing diseases efficiently. Example: Co-treatment of TB and HIV in ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) centers ensures better health outcomes.
• Strengthens Disease Surveillance and Data Management: A unified health system enhances TB monitoring, tracking drug resistance, and controlling outbreaks. Example: The Nikshay portal helps track patient progress and ensures adherence to treatment regimens.

How does the Ayushman Bharat scheme contribute to decentralizing TB care?

• Expansion of Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): Primary healthcare centres (PHCs) and HWCs under Ayushman Bharat provide TB screening, diagnosis, and treatment at the grassroots level, reducing dependency on tertiary hospitals. Example: A TB patient in a remote village can access free CBNAAT/Truenat testing at a nearby HWC, ensuring early detection.
• Financial Protection through PM-JAY: The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) covers TB treatment costs, reducing the financial burden on poor and vulnerable groups. Example: A migrant laborer diagnosed with drug-resistant TB can avail free hospitalization and medication under PM-JAY without financial hardship.
• Community-Based TB Care and Awareness: Health workers (ASHA, ANMs) are trained to provide TB awareness, medication adherence support, and nutritional aid at the community level. Example: An ASHA worker monitors a TB patient’s medicine intake and nutrition under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana, preventing treatment dropout.

What are Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs)?

• Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) are upgraded Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, aimed at strengthening primary healthcare across India.
• These centers provide comprehensive healthcare services at the community level, integrating preventive, promotive, curative, and diagnostic care.

What role do Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) play in this process?

• Strengthening TB Screening and Early Detection: Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) serve as first-contact healthcare facilities offering free TB screening and diagnostic services, improving early detection. Example: A person with persistent cough visiting an AAM in a rural area can get an immediate sputum test, preventing delayed diagnosis.
• Ensuring Free and Continuous TB Treatment: AAMs provide directly observed treatment (DOTS) services, ensuring uninterrupted access to TB medicines and better adherence to treatment. Example: A TB patient enrolled at an AAM receives daily monitored medication, reducing the risk of drug resistance and treatment dropout.
• Community Engagement and Nutritional Support: AAMs facilitate awareness programs, counseling, and nutritional support through schemes like Nikshay Poshan Yojana to enhance treatment outcomes. Example: A malnourished TB patient visiting an AAM is linked to a nutrition support program, improving overall recovery and immunity.

Way forward:

• Strengthen Multi-Sectoral Collaboration: Enhancing partnerships between healthcare, nutrition, and social welfare sectors can ensure a holistic approach to TB care. Example: Expanding Nikshay Poshan Yojana with additional dietary interventions can improve patient recovery.
• Leverage Technology for TB Surveillance & Treatment: Expanding AI-driven diagnostic tools and digital adherence tracking can improve early detection and treatment success. Example: Scaling up the use of AI-based X-ray screening in rural areas can enhance case detection rates.