Every year on September 8, International Literacy Day is celebrated to emphasize the importance of literacy in building a literate and sustainable society. This day is globally recognized and observed at national, regional, and local levels by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). 

International Literacy Day 2024 Overview

International Literacy Day serves as a reminder of the importance of literacy for individuals, communities, and nations. Each year, the day is celebrated with a unique and meaningful theme that highlights the necessary conditions to foster the development of a more literate global society.

International Literacy Day 2024 Theme

The theme for International Literacy Day 2024 is "Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace". This theme emphasizes the importance of using multilingual education to foster mutual understanding, social cohesion, and peace. It highlights the cognitive, pedagogical, and socio-economic benefits of adopting a first language-based, multilingual approach to literacy development and education.

International Literacy Day 2024 Significance

International Literacy Day 2024 holds immense significance as it underscores the critical role literacy plays in personal empowerment, community development, and national progress. Celebrated annually on September 8th, this day aims to raise global awareness about the importance of literacy and advocate for inclusive education for all. 

• In 2024, the focus is on enhancing literacy rates to bridge educational gaps, promote gender equality, and support sustainable development goals.
• By highlighting the transformative power of reading and writing, International Literacy Day 2024 emphasizes the need for accessible education, the elimination of barriers to learning, and the implementation of effective literacy programs worldwide. 
• This observance not only celebrates the achievements in literacy but also calls for renewed commitment and collaborative efforts to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to acquire essential literacy skills, thereby fostering a more informed, equitable, and prosperous society.

International Literacy Day 2024 History

International Literacy Day was first proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966. The day was established to highlight the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights, and to advance the literacy agenda towards a more literate and sustainable society. Since its inception, International Literacy Day has been celebrated annually on September 8th, with the aim of reminding the international community of the importance of literacy for individuals, communities, and societies.

Over the years, International Literacy Day has focused on various themes related to literacy, including the connection between literacy and development, literacy in digital contexts, and the role of literacy in fostering peace and sustainability. The day serves as a global platform to raise awareness, advocate for literacy as a tool for empowerment, and mobilize efforts to overcome literacy challenges worldwide. In 2024, International Literacy Day continues this legacy, emphasizing the need to address literacy gaps and ensure that education is inclusive and accessible to all, in line with UNESCO’s broader goals of promoting education and lifelong learning for all.

International Literacy Day FAQs

Q1. Why is International Literacy Day celebrated?
Ans. International Literacy Day is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and its role in creating a more literate and sustainable society.

Q2. What is the theme of Literacy Day in 2024?
Ans. The theme for International Literacy Day 2024 is "Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace". 

Q3. What is India's Literacy Day?
Ans. India observes International Literacy Day on September 8th, along with the rest of the world, to promote literacy and education across the country.

National Nutrition Week 2024 is a significant annual event dedicated to spotlighting the crucial role of nutrition in achieving overall health and well-being. Held from September 1st to 7th, this week-long observance focuses on educating the public about the advantages of a balanced diet and promoting healthier eating habits.

The week aims to raise awareness about nutrition's impact on health, celebrate good dietary practices, and support government initiatives that promote better nutrition across India. As National Nutrition Week 2024 approaches, explore its history, significance, and the ongoing efforts to enhance nutrition awareness.

What is the National Nutrition Week 2024?

National Nutrition Week, observed annually from September 1 to 7, is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of nutrition. This week focuses on educating individuals and communities about healthy eating and making informed nutritional choices. It highlights that proper nutrition is essential for maintaining health, preventing diseases, and improving overall quality of life.

National Nutrition Week 2024 underscores the importance of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for individual well-being. During this week, various government and non-government organizations will conduct workshops, seminars, and campaigns to promote healthy eating habits and address the effects of poor nutrition.

National Nutrition Week History

The history of National Nutrition Week is rooted in the global recognition of the vital role nutrition plays in maintaining health and preventing disease. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Initiation: National Nutrition Week was first celebrated in the United States in 1973, initiated by the American Dietetic Association (now the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics) to emphasize the importance of good nutrition.
2. Adoption in India: In India, National Nutrition Week was introduced in 1982 by the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) to focus on educating the public about nutrition and promoting healthy eating habits.
3. Objectives: The week-long observance aims to raise awareness about various aspects of nutrition, including the benefits of a balanced diet, the impact of nutrition on health, and the importance of proper dietary practices.
4. Activities: Over the years, activities during National Nutrition Week have included educational campaigns, workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs aimed at improving dietary knowledge and practices.
5. Evolution: The scope of National Nutrition Week has evolved to address emerging nutrition-related challenges and to align with global health initiatives, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in overall public health.

National Nutrition Week 2024 Theme

The theme for National Nutrition Week 2024 has not yet been officially announced, but it is usually released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare as the event approaches. Some organizations are currently celebrating under the theme “Nutritious Diets for Everyone.”

Previous themes have focused on various aspects of nutrition, aiming to promote healthy eating habits and balanced diets. For instance, in 2023, the theme was “Healthy Diet Going Affordable for All,” which emphasized the importance of making nutritious food choices that are both accessible and affordable.

Challenges of Malnutrition in India

Challenges of Malnutrition in India include: 

1. Prevalence of Stunting and Wasting: High rates of stunting (low height for age) and wasting (low weight for height) among children under five indicate significant nutritional deficiencies.
2. Micronutrient Deficiencies: Widespread lack of essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, iron, and iodine, leading to various health issues like anemia and impaired cognitive development.
3. Socioeconomic Disparities: Malnutrition is more prevalent in marginalized communities and economically disadvantaged regions, highlighting disparities in access to nutritious food.
4. Inadequate Dietary Diversity: Limited consumption of diverse foods contributes to imbalanced nutrition, affecting overall health and development.
5. Poor Sanitation and Hygiene: Inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices lead to infections and diseases that exacerbate malnutrition, particularly among young children.
6. Healthcare Access: Limited access to healthcare services and nutritional education affects the ability to address and manage malnutrition effectively.
7. Economic Factors: Poverty and unemployment restrict access to quality food and nutrition, perpetuating cycles of malnutrition and poor health.
8. Cultural Practices: Some cultural practices and beliefs can impact dietary choices and nutritional intake, contributing to malnutrition.

Rashtriya Poshan Maah 

Rashtriya Poshan Maah, also known as National Nutrition Month, is a key initiative under the POSHAN Abhiyaan aimed at improving nutritional outcomes for at-risk populations. Celebrated each September, this year marks the 7th edition of Rashtriya Poshan Maah.

The focus for Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 includes themes such as Anaemia, Growth Monitoring, Complementary Feeding, Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, Technology for Better Governance, and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. The month will feature various activities, including health check-ups, community outreach programs, and the distribution of nutritional supplements, all aimed at tackling malnutrition and promoting healthier practices among children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.

POSHAN Abhiyaan 

POSHAN Abhiyaan, formerly known as the National Nutrition Mission, was launched in March 2018 to enhance nutrition for children aged 0-6 years, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Its primary goals are to reduce stunting, wasting, and anemia. The program is operational across all 36 states and Union Territories, including Tamil Nadu and Odisha.

Key aspects of POSHAN Abhiyaan include leveraging technology, engaging communities, and establishing Nutri-gardens to improve access to nutritious food. The initiative has been incorporated into Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, which emphasize diet diversity, food fortification, and the promotion of millets to effectively combat malnutrition.

National Nutrition Week 2024 Significance

National Nutrition Week is a crucial initiative for advancing nutritional awareness and promoting healthier eating habits. National Nutrition Week 2024 is particularly important for several reasons:

• Raising Awareness: It highlights the significance of a balanced diet and proper nutrition, aiming to educate the public on healthy eating practices.
• Combating Malnutrition: The week focuses on addressing malnutrition and related health issues, especially among vulnerable groups.
• Promoting Healthy Choices: It encourages individuals to make informed food choices that support overall health and prevent diseases.
• Supporting Government Initiatives: The observance complements government programs like Rashtriya Poshan Maah and POSHAN Abhiyaan, enhancing efforts to improve nutrition nationwide.
• Encouraging Community Participation: National Nutrition Week 2024 facilitates community engagement through various activities, fostering a culture of health and wellness.

National Nutrition Week FAQs

Q1. What is the theme of National Nutrition Week 2024?
Ans. The specific theme for National Nutrition Week 2024 has not yet been announced.

Q2. Which day is celebrated as World Nutrition Day?
Ans. World Nutrition Day is celebrated on March 28.

Q3. Why is National Nutrition Month celebrated?
Ans. National Nutrition Month is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of balanced diets and promote healthy eating habits.

Teachers Day in India is celebrated annually on September 5th with immense respect and enthusiasm. This day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished scholar, philosopher, and India's second President, who strongly advocated for education and recognized the pivotal role of teachers in shaping the nation's future. Teachers' Day serves as a tribute to educators for their significant contributions to society.

Why is Teachers Day celebrated on September 5?

Here are some key points on why Teachers' Day is celebrated on September 5th:

1. Birth Anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: Teachers' Day in India is celebrated on September 5th to honor the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a respected teacher, scholar, and philosopher.
2. Dr. Radhakrishnan's Contribution to Education: He was a strong advocate for education and recognized the importance of teachers in shaping the minds and futures of young people.
3. Dr. Radhakrishnan's Request: When some of his students and friends sought to celebrate his birthday, Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it would be his proud privilege if September 5th was observed as Teachers' Day.
4. A Tribute to Teachers: The celebration of Teachers' Day is a way to acknowledge and honor the dedicated efforts of teachers who play a vital role in the intellectual and moral development of students.
5. Symbol of Respect: Observing September 5th as Teachers' Day symbolizes the deep respect Indian society has for educators and highlights the value placed on teaching as a noble profession.
6. Inspiration for Students and Teachers: Teachers' Day serves as a reminder for students to appreciate the hard work and dedication of their teachers and inspires teachers to continue their commitment to their noble profession.

Teachers Day 2024 Theme

Each year, Teachers' Day is celebrated with a distinct theme that underscores the changing role of educators in society. The theme for Teachers' Day 2024 is “Empowering Educators for a Sustainable Future.” This theme focuses on the importance of providing teachers with the essential tools and knowledge to nurture a generation that is environmentally aware, socially responsible, and capable of addressing future challenges. It underscores the vital role educators play in promoting sustainability and shaping responsible global citizens.

History of Teacher’s Day

Teacher’s Day in India is celebrated on September 5th each year to honor the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished scholar, philosopher, and the second President of India.

• Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: When Dr. Radhakrishnan became the President of India, his students and friends approached him to celebrate his birthday. He suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, they should observe it as Teacher’s Day to recognize the invaluable contribution of teachers to society.
• First Celebration: The first official Teacher's Day was celebrated in India on September 5, 1962, following Dr. Radhakrishnan's suggestion.
• Global Context: While India celebrates Teacher's Day on September 5th, the rest of the world observes it on different dates. For instance, World Teachers' Day, recognized by UNESCO, is celebrated on October 5th to honor teachers and educators globally.
• Significance: Teacher’s Day serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that teachers play in shaping the minds of the future generation, highlighting their importance in personal and societal development.

Teachers Day and S Radhakrishnan

• The date of September 5th was chosen to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a respected scholar, philosopher, and India's second President. Dr. Radhakrishnan was a staunch advocate of education and believed that teachers play a vital role in society.
• Inspiration for Teacher’s Day: The idea of celebrating Teacher’s Day originated when Dr. Radhakrishnan's students and friends wanted to mark his birthday in a special way. Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it would be more meaningful to observe it as a day to honor teachers, reflecting his belief in the value of teaching and education.
• Legacy: Dr. Radhakrishnan's suggestion led to the first Teacher’s Day celebration in India in 1962. His legacy continues to inspire the recognition of teachers' contributions, and his vision for education emphasizes the crucial role educators play in building a just and knowledgeable society.

Teacher’s Day thus serves as a tribute to Dr. Radhakrishnan’s contributions and ideals, celebrating the impact of teachers in nurturing the minds and hearts of students across the country.

Teachers Day in India Significance

Teachers’ Day in India carries deep significance, underscoring the crucial role teachers play in shaping the lives of students and, consequently, society. It recognizes teachers as the builders of the future, guiding students to become responsible, informed, and empathetic citizens.

1. A Tribute to Educators: Teachers’ Day serves as a moment to honor and appreciate the relentless efforts of teachers who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds. It provides students and society with the opportunity to show gratitude for the dedication, patience, and commitment of educators.
2. Promoting Teaching as a Noble Profession: This day highlights the importance of teaching as a respected and rewarding career. It brings attention to the challenges educators face and underscores the need to support their professional growth and development.
3. Strengthening Teacher-Student Relationships: Celebrating Teachers’ Day cultivates respect and appreciation among students for their teachers. It helps in enhancing the teacher-student bond, making the educational experience more impactful and harmonious.
4. Celebration of Knowledge: The day reinforces the importance of education and the pursuit of knowledge in society. By honoring teachers, it emphasizes that education is a fundamental pillar of personal and societal advancement.

Teachers Day Celebration in India

1. Honoring Teachers: Schools and educational institutions across the country hold special ceremonies to honor teachers. Students often present their teachers with flowers, cards, and gifts as tokens of appreciation.
2. Cultural Programs: Students organize various cultural activities, including dances, songs, and skits, to entertain and pay tribute to their teachers. These programs are usually centered around the significance of teachers in students' lives.
3. Role Reversal: In many schools, senior students take on the role of teachers for the day, conducting classes and managing the school, which gives them a glimpse into the responsibilities of educators and fosters respect for the teaching profession.
4. Awards and Recognition: Outstanding teachers are recognized and rewarded for their contributions to education. Both government and private organizations often present awards and certificates to commend exemplary educators.
5. Messages and Speeches: Teachers' Day is marked by speeches and messages from educational leaders and students, reflecting on the importance of teachers and the impact they have on students' lives and society as a whole.
6. Community Gatherings: In some communities, local gatherings are held to honor retired teachers and celebrate their lifelong dedication to education. These events often include sharing memories and expressing gratitude.

Teachers’ Day in India is a heartfelt celebration that underscores the respect and admiration society holds for teachers, highlighting their indispensable role in shaping future generations.

Teachers’ Day in India goes beyond a mere celebration; it is a profound recognition of the significant impact teachers have on society. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s legacy continues to inspire countless generations, and Teachers’ Day serves as a reminder of the respect, admiration, and gratitude we owe to our educators. Echoing the theme for Teachers’ Day 2024, the transformation of education starts with teachers, who are instrumental in shaping the future of individuals and nations. 

Teachers Day 2024 FAQs

Q1. What is the theme for Teachers' Day 2024?
Ans. The theme for Teachers' Day 2024 is "Empowering Educators for a Sustainable Future."

Q2. What is the real date of Teachers' Day?
Ans. Teachers' Day is celebrated on September 5th each year.

Q3. Why is Teachers' Day celebrated on September 5?
Ans. Teachers' Day is celebrated on September 5th to honor the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President and a respected scholar.

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• The Current Indian Laws to Curb Sexual Assaults on Women
• Salient Provisions of the Aparajita Bill
• Other Similar State Laws to Curb Sexual Assaults on Women
• Difficulties in Introducing State Laws to Curb Sexual Assaults on Women

Why in News?

• The Aparajita Woman and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill 2024, which mandates the death penalty in rape cases if the victim dies or is left in a permanent vegetative state, was unanimously approved by the state Assembly.
• This comes while West Bengal is still roiling under the public demonstrations against the rape and killing of a young doctor at Kolkata's R G Kar Medical College and Hospital.

The Current Indian Laws to Curb Sexual Assaults on Women:

• The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 amended Indian Penal Code (IPC) to allow death penalty in rape cases when it led to death or left the victim in a persistent vegetative state, and in cases of repeat offenders.
• The Criminal Laws (Amendment) Act 2018 provided for death penalty for rape and gang rape of girls below the age of 12.
• The Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 keeps all the old penal provisions and adds that gang rape of a woman under 18 is punishable by death.

Salient Provisions of the Aparajita Bill:

• The Bill amends provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 (BNS), the Bharatiya Nyaya Suraksha Sanhita 2023 (BNSS), and the Protection of Children Against Sexual Offences Act 2012 (POCSO) in the state.
• Provisions of BNS amended:
  • In cases where aggravating circumstances are present (such as rape by a public servant, etc), the Bill adds the words “or with death” at the end of the description of the maximum punishments (imprisonment for life).
  • In rape cases where the victim dies or is left in a permanent vegetative state, the Bill makes the death penalty mandatory in such cases.
  • In cases of gang rape, the Bill provides for the death penalty for the gang rape of a woman above age 18.
  • For repeat offenders, the Aparajita Bill replaces the punishment of simple “imprisonment for life” with “rigorous imprisonment for life”.
  • For disclosing the identity of a rape victim and for publishing information relating to court proceedings in rape cases, it also increases the jail terms.
  • In cases of acid attacks, the Bill removes the lighter punishments (prison terms less than life and fine) with “rigorous imprisonment for life” as the only punishment.
• Provisions of POCSO Act amended: The Bill provides for the death penalty for penetrative sexual assault, where the highest punishment currently is life imprisonment.
• Provisions of BNSS amended:
  • The Bill reduces the time provided under BNSS to complete the investigation into the relevant BNS and POCSO offences from two months to 21 days (which can be extended by another 15 days if necessary).
  • The Bill also reduces the time given to complete the trial after the chargesheet is filed from two months to 30 days.
• Task Forces, Special Courts:
  • The Aparajita Bill provides for special institutions (like Special Police Teams to investigate crimes against women) with the express purpose of investigating, hearing, and deciding rape cases on strict timelines.
  • For example, the Bill creates a special Aparajita Task Force in every district to investigate cases of rape.
  • The Bill also introduces Special Courts in every district for the purpose of expeditious completion of inquiry or trial in rape cases, and to appoint a Special Public Prosecutor respectively.

 Other Similar State Laws to Curb Sexual Assaults on Women:

• Before West Bengal, the Andhra Pradesh (Disha Bill) and Maharashtra (Shakti Bill) Assemblies had passed laws prescribing the death penalty for rape by amending the criminal laws in force at the time.
  • The Disha Bill2019 introduced the death penalty as punishment for the crimes of rape, including against a minor below 16 years of age, gang rape and for repeat offenders.
  • The Shakti Bill 2020 too introduced the death penalty in rape cases and provided shortened timelines for concluding the investigation and trial.
  • Neither Bills has received the mandatory assent of the President yet.
• Earlier, the Madhya Pradesh (in 2017) and Arunachal Pradesh (in 2018) Assemblies introduced the death penalty for the rape or gangrape of a woman up to 12 years of age.

Difficulties in Introducing State Laws to Curb Sexual Assaults on Women:

• The Aparajita Bill will now be presented to the Governor of West Bengal who will send it to the President, who will then decide whether to give her assent and allow the Bill to come into force.
• Why is the President's assent crucial?

• In Mithu versus State of Punjab case (1983), the Supreme Court ruled that ‘mandatory’ death sentence
  • Violates fundamental rights of equality before law (Art 14) and right to life (Art 21), and
  • Would result in "unfair, unjust and unreasonable procedure" that can deprive a person of his/her life.

Q.1. What is the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023?

The BNS 2023 is a new criminal code that will replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860. The BNS is intended to provide justice instead of punishment, and to remove traces of a colonial mindset. The BNS came into effect on July 1, 2024.

Q.2. What is the Bharatiya Nyaya Suraksha Sanhita 2023 (BNSS)?

The BNSS was introduced to replace the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). It amends provisions on bail, expands the scope of property seizure, and alters powers of police and magistrates.

Source: Bengal bill proposes death or life in jail till death for all rape cases | IE

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• Genome mapping
• Chandipura
• Key Findings from GBRC's Genome Mapping of CHPV

Why in News?

The Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) in Gandhinagar has successfully published the first fully mapped genome of the Chandipura Vesiculovirus (CHPV).

This virus is responsible for causing encephalitis or brain swelling, which accounted for a significant portion of cases during the outbreak in Gujarat in July-August.

Genome mapping

• About
  • Genome mapping refers to the process of identifying the locations of genes and important sequences on a genome.
  • Genome mapping provides important clues on where a virus comes from, how it is changing, and whether it has any mutations that are likely to make it more transmissible or deadly.
  • Genome maps are of two types:
    • genetic maps, which show the relative positions of genes based on recombination frequency, and
    • physical maps, which show the absolute positions of genes based on DNA base pairs.
• Significance
  • Understanding Genetic Disorders: Genome mapping helps identify genes associated with genetic diseases, facilitating early diagnosis, targeted treatment, and genetic counseling.
  • Personalized Medicine: Mapping can lead to customized treatment plans based on an individual's genetic makeup, improving the effectiveness of therapies.
  • Agriculture: In crops and livestock, genome mapping allows the identification of desirable traits, aiding in breeding programs for higher yield, disease resistance, and quality.
  • Vaccine and Drug Development: Understanding the genomic structure of pathogens like viruses helps develop effective vaccines and drugs, as seen in the fight against infectious diseases like COVID-19 and CHPV.
    • Evolutionary Studies: Genome maps provide insights into evolutionary relationships between species by comparing genetic sequences across organisms.
• Challenges
  • Complexity of Genomes: Larger genomes, such as those in plants and animals, are highly complex and contain repetitive sequences, making accurate mapping difficult.
  • Ethical Concerns: Genome mapping can raise privacy and ethical issues, especially regarding how genetic information is used and who has access to it.
  • Cost and Resources: Although costs have reduced, genome mapping, particularly for large-scale projects, still requires significant financial investment and technological resources.
  • Data Interpretation: Even after mapping, interpreting the significance of various genes and sequences remains a challenge due to gaps in our understanding of their functions.

Chandipura

• About
  • Chandipura is a viral infection that can lead to outbreaks of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) or brain swelling.
  • It is known to cause fever, headache, and encephalitis leading to convulsions, coma, and death, usually within a few days of the symptoms showing up.
• Family and Vectors
  • Chandipura virus (CHPV) belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, which includes viruses like the lyssavirus (rabies).
  • Several sandfly species, such as Phlebotomine sandflies and Phlebotomus papatasi, along with Aedes aegypti mosquitoes (also responsible for dengue), act as vectors.
  • The virus resides in the salivary glands of these insects and is transmitted to humans or other vertebrates through bites.
• Transmission and Progression of Infection
  • Once transmitted, CHPV can spread to the central nervous system, leading to encephalitis (brain inflammation).
  • Symptoms begin with flu-like signs such as fever, body aches, and headaches, and may escalate to altered mental status, seizures, and encephalitis.
  • Other symptoms may include respiratory distress, bleeding tendencies, or anemia.
  • The infection often progresses rapidly, leading to death within 24-48 hours of hospitalization.
• Most Affected Population
  • The virus predominantly affects children under 15 years of age.
  • The infection tends to be seasonal, with outbreaks often reported during periods when the sandfly population increases, particularly in monsoon seasons.
• Historical Outbreaks and Endemic Regions
  • CHPV was first identified in 1965 during a dengue/chikungunya investigation in Maharashtra.
  • Significant outbreaks occurred in 2003-2004 in Maharashtra, northern Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, resulting in over 300 deaths among children. T
• he case fatality rate (CFR) during the 2004 Gujarat outbreak reached 78%, while Andhra Pradesh reported a CFR of 55% in 2003.
  • The infection remains endemic in central India, where the vector population is more concentrated.
  • Outbreaks are most commonly reported in rural, tribal, and peripheral areas.

Key Findings from GBRC's Genome Mapping of CHPV

• No Major Change in Genetic Makeup
  • The CHPV virus from the recent Gujarat outbreak is highly similar to the 2012 strain, with only a single amino acid mutation in the glycoprotein-B gene.
• This gene is crucial for the virus’s ability to bind to human cell receptors and trigger an immune response.
  • Unlike COVID-19, the virus has not needed to change much, possibly due to low population-wide antibody development and the absence of a vaccine.
• Low Viral Load but Severe Impact
  • Despite the high Cycle Threshold (Ct) value in RT-PCR tests, indicating a low viral load, the virus still caused severe symptoms.
• Indigenous Virus, Not Imported
  • Genome sequencing revealed that the current virus strain is closely related to those from previous Indian outbreaks in 2003-04 and 2007.
  • The virus was not imported from abroad and is distinct from strains found in Europe and Africa, confirming that it is circulating within India.

Q.1. What is genome mapping, and why is it significant for healthcare?

Genome mapping helps locate genes on a genome, offering insights into virus mutations and aiding vaccine development, as seen in the Chandipura virus case.

Q.2. What were the key findings from the Chandipura virus genome mapping?

The Chandipura virus from the Gujarat outbreak closely resembled earlier strains, with minimal genetic changes, highlighting its low mutation rate.

Source: Genome mapping of Chandipura virus: what researchers found | Indian Express

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• Significance of Brunei for India
• Key highlights of the visit

Why in News?

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Brunei Darussalam on an official two-day visit. This is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei.

The historic visit of Prime Minister coincides with the 40th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei.

Significance of Brunei for India

• Importance in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy
  • Brunei is an important partner in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision.
  • The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is the “central pillar” of India’s Act East Policy. Brunei is also an ASEAN member.
• Economic significance
  • Many Southeast Asian countries have seen rapid economic growth in the last few decades. Therefore, commerce is also central to these ties.
  • India-Brunei trade last year was approximately $286.20 million.
  • Brunei is one of the largest oil and gas producers in the region.
• Brunei’s location in South China Sea
  • India also has vital stakes in the South China Sea, as almost 55 per cent of its trade passes through the disputed waters.
• To counter China
  • Brunei claims to be part of the South China Sea, most of which Beijing says belongs to China.
  • But unlike some other countries with claims in the region, Brunei has kept silent on its own claim to a relatively small area off northern Borneo, focusing on growing trade ties with China as the oil-reliant nation diversifies its economy.
  • Experts believe India can capitalise on Brunei’s potential to tap into its China+1 strategy. 
• The China Plus One strategy is a business strategy that encourages companies to diversify their manufacturing and supply chains by investing in countries other than China. 
• Indian diaspora
  • The first phase of Indians arriving in Brunei started with the discovery of oil in the 1920s. Currently, approximately 14,000 Indians are residing in Brunei.
  • The contribution of Indian doctors and teachers to the growth and development of Brunei’s healthcare and education sectors has been well acknowledged.
• Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s Visits to India
  • Sultan Bolkiah, one of the world’s longest-reigning monarchs, has visited India four times.
  • His visits have emphasized strengthening ties, with his most recent visit in 2018 as Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day parade.

Key highlights of the visit

• About the visit
  • PM Modi landed in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei Darussalam, on September 3 for his official visit to the country.
  • The first Indian PM to visit the Southeast Asian nation, his trip also marks 40 years since India and Brunei officially established diplomatic ties.
• Key highlights of the visit
  • Inaugurated a new Chancery of the High Commission of India
    • PM Modi inaugurated a new Chancery of the High Commission of India and visited the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
    • The mosque has a fusion of architecture from the Mughal era and the Italian Renaissance period.
    • The new Chancery will highly enhance the diplomatic relations between the two countries.
    • This chancery design shows Indian motifs, which embody the cultural spirit in Indian buildings and help establish Indianness in Brunei.
  • Defense Cooperation
    • A Joint Working Group will be established to enhance defense ties between India and Brunei.
  • Space Cooperation Pact
    • PM Modi and Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah discussed signing a space cooperation agreement, indicating a mutual interest in advancing technological collaboration in space exploration and satellite technology.
    • PM Modi expressed appreciation for Brunei's support in hosting ISRO's Telemetry Tracking and Telecommand (TTC) Station.
  • Cooperation in energy sector
    • The two countries discussed the possibility of long-term cooperation in LNG supplies.
    • This is significant as India has dropped its demand for oil from Brunei in favour of Russian oil imports in recent years.
  • Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Enhanced Partnership
    • India and Brunei elevated their bilateral relationship to an "enhanced partnership," agreeing to cooperate on key areas such as defense, trade, investment, space, health, education, and cultural exchanges.
    • They also recognized the importance of regular dialogue through platforms like the Joint Trade Committee (JTC).

Q.1. Why is Brunei significant for India’s Act East Policy?

Brunei plays a key role in India's Act East Policy due to its location in the South China Sea and membership in ASEAN, enhancing regional economic and defense ties.

Q.2. What were the major outcomes of PM Modi's visit to Brunei?

The visit resulted in enhanced defense and space cooperation, including discussions on LNG supplies and elevating India-Brunei ties to an “enhanced partnership”.

Source: Eye on China, Modi in Brunei: India backs policy of development, not expansionism | MEA | The Hindu | Indian Express