In News:

The 2024 edition of The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change presents critical insights into the intersection of health and climate change.

Key Findings from the 2024 Report

• Air Pollution and Mortality in India:
  • In 2021, air pollution was responsible for 1.6 million deaths in India.
  • Fossil fuels (coal and liquid gas) were identified as major contributors, accounting for 38% of these deaths.
  • India was ranked as the second-highest emitter of PM2.5 globally in 2022, contributing 15.8% of consumption-based and 16.9% of production-based PM2.5 emissions.
• Impact of Heat Stress:
  • In 2023, India experienced 2400 hours (or 100 days) of moderate to high heat stress, particularly during light outdoor activities like walking.
  • Heatwaves have become more frequent, with adults over 65 years experiencing 8.4 heatwave days per year, a 58% increase from 1990-1999.
  • This increased heat exposure has led to a loss of 181 billion labor hours globally, translating into an economic loss of approximately $141 billion.
• Global and National Trends in Air Pollution:
  • PM2.5 is particularly hazardous because it is fine enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream, leading to severe health risks like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO?), Sulphur Dioxide (SO?), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Ozone (O?) were identified as other pollutants contributing to poor air quality in India.
• Health Impact of Extreme Weather:
  • The 2023 heatwave was one of the hottest years on record, exacerbating health risks worldwide, especially for the elderly.
  • Droughts and heatwaves also contributed to a rise in food insecurity, affecting millions globally.
• Disease Transmission and Climate Change:
  • Dengue transmission potential rose by 85% from 1951-1960 to 2014-2023.
  • Coastal areas suitable for the spread of Vibrio pathogens, which cause cholera, expanded by 23%, affecting over 210 million people.
• Health Effects of Fossil Fuel Pollution:
  • Continued reliance on fossil fuels worsens air quality, leading to health problems such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Government Efforts to Tackle Air Pollution in India

• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
  • NCAP is a national strategy to reduce air pollution across India, with specific action plans for 131 non-attainment cities. The initiative is supported through various central government schemes such as:
    1. Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban)
    2. Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
    3. Smart City Mission
    4. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME-II)
• Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) Emission Norms:
  • BS-VI standards aim to significantly reduce vehicular pollution, lowering permissible limits for NOx and particulate matter (PM) emissions from vehicles.
• System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR):
  • SAFAR measures air quality and provides forecasts for metropolitan cities based on real-time data, helping authorities take preventive actions.
• Promotion of Renewable Energy:
  • India achieved a record 11% of electricity from renewable energy in 2022. However, 71% of India’s electricity still comes from coal, underscoring the need for a faster transition to cleaner energy sources.

In News:

• Recently, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile app.
• The app aims to integrate technology with governance by making the registration of births and deaths more accessible, seamless, and hassle-free.

Key Features of the App:

• Anytime, Anywhere Registration: Citizens can register births and deaths from anywhere and at any time, in their State’s official language.
• The app is designed to significantly reduce the time required for registration, making it more efficient and convenient for users.

Legal and Policy Background:

• The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023 mandates that all births and deaths in India, occurring from October 1, 2023, must be digitally registered through the Centre’s portal: dc.crsorgi.gov.in.
• This move is part of the broader effort to digitize civil records and create a centralized database.

Benefits of Digital Registration:

• Digital Birth Certificates: The new system will issue digital birth certificates which will serve as a single document to prove the date of birth for various services, such as:
  • Admission to educational institutions
  • Applying for government jobs
  • Marriage registration
• Centralized Database: The integration of birth and death data into a centralized database will help update critical records such as:
  • National Population Register (NPR)
  • Ration cards
  • Property registration
  • Electoral rolls

National Population Register (NPR) Integration:

• The data collected through the CRS app will assist in updating the National Population Register (NPR), which was first collected in 2010 and updated in 2015 through door-to-door enumeration.
• The NPR serves as the first step toward the creation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) under the Citizenship Act, aimed at identifying Indian citizens.

In News:

• Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan.
• This initiative is aimed at showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and promoting traditional historical elements among visitors to Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Significance of the Konark Sun Temple:

• Historical Background: The Konark Sun Temple was built in the 13th century under King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty in Konark, Odisha.
• Architectural Design: The temple is a colossal stone chariot with twelve pairs of intricately carved wheels, symbolizing the chariot of the Sun God.
• Materials Used: Constructed using Khondalite stones, the temple features detailed carvings that depict mythology and cultural life.
• Astronomical Significance: The temple's orientation is designed to capture the first light of the sun, reflecting ancient Indian knowledge of astronomy.
• UNESCO World Heritage Status: The Konark Sun Temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, recognizing its architectural and historical importance.

Symbolism of the Konark Wheel:

• Time and Progression: The Konark wheel represents time (Kalachakra), progression, and democracy. Its 24 spokes symbolize ancient Indian wisdom and the passage of time.
• Sundial Function: The wheel was historically used as a sundial in the temple, marking the passage of time and symbolizing India’s commitment to progress and resilience.
• National Emblem: The Konark wheel's design is also reflected in the Ashoka Chakra, the wheel on the national flag of India, symbolizing the nation’s resolve towards progress.

Cultural Heritage at Rashtrapati Bhavan:

• The installation of these replicas is part of a broader effort to introduce and promote traditional cultural and historical elements at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• The Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan serve as platforms to exhibit India’s diverse artistic legacy to visitors, allowing them to experience the grandeur of ancient Indian architecture and its cultural significance.

In News:

• Brazilhas opted not to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), becoming the second BRICS country after India to reject the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.
• Brazil prefers to explore alternative ways to collaborate with Chinese investors without signing a formal treaty, aiming to avoid the perceived risks of the BRI.

BRICS and India’s Role:

• Brazil’s decision follows India’s long-standing opposition to the BRI, particularly due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which India views as a violation of its sovereignty.
• India has consistently argued that BRI projects should adhere to international norms, good governance, and transparency, emphasizing that such initiatives should be financially sustainable and not lead to debt traps.

Brazil’s Broader Economic Strategy:

• Brazil aims to balance its relationship with China, which is a major economic partner, but without being bound by the BRI. This decision reflects broader concerns within Brazil about the long-term financial sustainability of BRI projects, especially after witnessing debt crises in other countries like Sri Lanka.

Global Context and the BRI's Impact:

• The BRI, launched by China in 2013, spans several infrastructure sectors and has expanded globally, but it has faced criticism for its potential to trap smaller nations in unsustainable debt.
• India and Brazil’s resistance to the BRI highlights growing skepticism among emerging economies about the long-term implications of joining China's flagship project.

In News:

Celebrated on 29th October 2024, marking the 9th Ayurveda Day, with the theme “Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health”.

• Global Participation: Over 150 countries participating, reflecting Ayurveda's growing global influence.
• Venue: Major events held at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi.

Key Highlights:

Significance of Ayurveda and its Global Outreach

• Ancient System: Ayurveda is one of the oldest healthcare systems, focusing on holistic well-being, rooted in Vedic traditions, and dating back over 5,000 years.
• Global Recognition: Recognized in 24 countries and Ayurveda products exported to over 100 countries.
• International Cooperation: Collaborative efforts through forums like BRICS, SCO, BIMSTEC, and WHO to integrate Ayurveda into global health policies.

Role of Dhanvantri in Ayurveda Day

• Dhanvantari Jayanti: Ayurveda Day coincides with Dhanteras, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantri, considered the divine physician.
• Cultural & Religious Significance: Worshiped for promoting health and longevity, Dhanvantri symbolizes the healing powers of Ayurveda.

Innovations and Relevance of Ayurveda

• Research and Innovation: The theme emphasizes scientific advancements in Ayurveda to address global health challenges such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and geriatric care.
• Startup Ecosystem: Focus on fostering innovation through Ayurveda startups, particularly in the North Eastern states and across India.

Ayurveda’s Role in Addressing Global Health Issues

• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Ayurveda offers preventive and holistic treatment for diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions.
• Mental Health: Ayurveda promotes balance in the mind, body, and spirit, with methods addressing stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Emphasizing traditional medicinal plants and natural remedies to combat resistance to antibiotics.
• Geriatric Health: Ayurveda's role in managing aging and enhancing quality of life through rejuvenation therapies.

Focus Areas for Ayurveda Innovation

• Women’s Health: Developing Ayurvedic solutions tailored for women's health issues, including reproductive health and hormonal balance.
• Workplace Wellness: Integrating Ayurveda in workplace settings to improve mental and physical health.
• School Wellness Programs: Promoting Ayurvedic practices in schools to boost immunity and overall health of children.
• Food Innovation: Modernizing Ayurvedic dietary concepts, focusing on nutritional balance and preventive health.

Government Initiatives and Digital Transformation

• Ayush Digital Platforms: Initiatives like Ayush Grid, Ayurgyan Scheme, Ayush Research Portal, and Namaste Portal are enhancing accessibility to Ayurvedic knowledge.
• WHO Integration: Ayurveda's inclusion in the WHO ICD-11 Traditional Medicine Module facilitates global standardization and recognition.
• I Support Ayurveda Campaign: A public awareness campaign aiming to garner over 250 million votes in support of Ayurveda.

Ayurvedic Education and Research

• Research Centers: Government-supported centers like the Research Centre for Innovation in Ayurveda Biology and WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre advancing Ayurveda's global integration.
• Academic Contributions: Institutes like National Institute of Ayurveda, Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, and North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homeopathy are leading innovation and education in Ayurveda.

Ayurveda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Ayurveda contributes significantly to public health, with a focus on preventive care and holistic health.
• Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Ayurveda supports affordable, accessible healthcare solutions, complementing the global health agenda.