July 1, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
One Health | Explained
One Health Initiative is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It advocates for collaborative efforts among various sectors, such as medicine, veterinary science, environmental science, and policy-making, to address global health challenges effectively.
As an aspiring UPSC candidate, understanding the One Health concept is crucial as it aligns with the contemporary focus on sustainable development and integrated approaches to public health.
Highlights of the Day
1. National Exit Test:
The National Medical Commission (NMC) made the announcement regarding the implementation of the National Exit Test. The NExT is intended to be a common licentiate examination that will replace the university-level final MBBS examination, the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-PG (NEET-PG), and the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE). Clearing the NExT will be a requirement for obtaining registration as a doctor and practicing medicine in India. The NMC has stated that the NExT will also serve as a test for postgraduate selections across all specialties.
2. National Research Foundation:
The government of India has approved the establishment of the National Research Foundation (NRF) to promote scientific research in higher education institutions. The NRF aims to address the low research and development (R&D) spending in India and provide funding and support for research in various disciplines. It will absorb the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) and offer fellowships for post-doctoral research. The industry is expected to contribute a significant amount to the NRF's estimated budget of Rs 50,000 crore over five years. The NRF will be administratively housed in the Department of Science and Technology (DST), with a governing board and an executive council overseeing its operations. The implementation of the NRF is considered a major milestone for science in India, with the goal of enhancing research capabilities and fostering collaborations with industry and society.
3. 64th GEF Council Meeting:
The Kunming-Montreal biodiversity framework, a global initiative adopted during the 15th Conference of Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity in 2021, has received a significant boost with the approval of $1.4 billion in funding by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) during its 64th council meeting in Brazil. This is a significant step towards addressing the pressing global biodiversity crisis. Adequate financial support is essential to meet the framework's four goals and 23 targets within the given timeframe.
4. Namakkal District in Tamil Nadu Sets an Example for Water Conservation and Groundwater Management:
Namakkal district in Tamil Nadu, India has successfully addressed its water scarcity challenges and achieved the second-best groundwater availability in the country. The district implemented a comprehensive approach involving community participation, rainwater harvesting, sustainable agriculture, efficient water management systems, and robust policies. They focused on creating artificial recharge structures, such as check dams, ponds, and farm ponds, to capture rainwater and replenish the groundwater table. River rejuvenation, canal desilting, and sewerage cleaning were also undertaken to improve water quality. The district invested in modernizing water infrastructure and incorporating advanced technologies for monitoring and controlling water supply networks. Additionally, community participation and awareness played a crucial role in fostering a water conservation culture.
5. India Removed from UN's List of Countries Impacted by Armed Conflict on Children:
United Nations (UN) has removed India from its annual list of countries where children are impacted by armed conflict. The decision was based on the measures taken by the Indian government to better protect children. Previously, India was included in the report due to allegations of recruitment of young boys by separatist militant groups in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as accusations against Indian security forces regarding the detention of young boys. However, the UN Secretary-General acknowledged the steps taken by India to protect children and called for further implementation of measures.
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Which of the following best describes the One Health approach?
a) A multidisciplinary approach that focuses on the interconnection between human health, animal health, and environmental health.
b) A program initiated by the Indian government to address zoonotic diseases.
c) A research initiative aimed at studying the impact of climate change on public health.
d) A campaign to promote awareness about the importance of vaccination in rural areas.
Q2: Which of the following is a landlocked country in South America?
a) Brazil
b) Argentina
c) Peru
d) Bolivia
Q3: What is the purpose of the National Exit Test (NExT) announced by the National Medical Commission (NMC)?
a) To replace the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-PG (NEET-PG) for admission to postgraduate courses in medicine.
b) To evaluate students' theoretical knowledge and practical skills in medicine.
c) To establish a common licentiate examination for all medical graduates in India.
d) All of the above.
Q4: What is the primary objective of the National Research Foundation (NRF) approved by the government of India?
a) To promote and fund scientific research in higher education institutions.
b) To establish a regulatory body for research and development (R&D) in India.
c) To facilitate collaborations between industry and academia for innovation.
d) To improve research capabilities in peripheral and rural areas of the country.
Q5: Which of the following principles is central to Buddhism?
a) Dharma
b) Karma
c) Samsara
d) Nirvana
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on society and its potential implications for governance, economy, and ethical considerations.
Note: This essay question requires you to analyze the various aspects of artificial intelligence, including its societal impact, implications for governance and economy, and ethical considerations. Make sure to present a well-structured argument and provide examples to support your points.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
What we see matters
Some insightful observations from past UPSC papers:
If you carefully observe a question from the 2013 prelims, which asks about the proportion of freshwater found in different landforms. The information obtained from this question was again used in the 2021 question to compare the amount of water in rivers, glaciers, and groundwater.
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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