Daily Current Affairs 07 August 2023 – IAS Current Affairs

Current Affairs 07 August 2023 focuses on Prelims-Mains perspective. Major events are :

World Breastfeeding Week 2023

Source: Down To Earth
GS II: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. World Breastfeeding Week
3. What are the Challenges in Breast Feeding in India?

Why in News?

Each year, the first week of August is designated as World Breastfeeding Week.

• The week-long event aims to raise awareness about the significance of breastfeeding for infant development.

News in Brief

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) on the first day of World Breastfeeding Week, that several nations had achieved noteworthy progress towards raising the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding.
• But if breastfeeding is protected and encouraged, particularly at work, considerably more progress may be accomplished.
• The theme for this year is Let’s make breastfeeding at work, work United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the WHO.
• This emphasises the need for greater breastfeeding support across all workplaces to sustain and improve progress on breastfeeding rates globally.
• Breastfeeding rates drop significantly for women when they return to work.
• Breastfeeding can help achieve many of the 17 SDGs, including goals on poverty, hunger, health, education, gender equality, and sustainable consumption.

World Breastfeeding Week

• World Breastfeeding Week is an annual global campaign that takes place from August 1st to August 7th each year.
• It aims to raise awareness and promote the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of both infants and mothers.
• The week also provides an opportunity to encourage and support breastfeeding as a natural and beneficial way of feeding babies.
• The initiative was first launched in 1991 by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), a global network of organizations and individuals dedicated to the protection, promotion, and support of breastfeeding.
• The week is celebrated in over 120 countries, and each year a theme is chosen to focus on specific aspects of breastfeeding and maternal health.
• Each year, the campaign chooses a theme that reflects the current global breastfeeding context and the challenges or topics that need attention.
• These themes range from maternal health to nutrition, gender equality, and sustainable development.
• Overall, World Breastfeeding Week serves as an important reminder of the significance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of mothers and children and the need for supportive environments that enable successful breastfeeding practices.

World Breastfeeding Week

• Raising awareness
  • The week serves as a platform to educate the public, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and families about the importance of breastfeeding and its numerous benefits.
• Empowering women
  • World Breastfeeding Week aims to empower mothers with knowledge about breastfeeding.
  • Also its positive effects on the health and development of their children.
• Advocating for policy changes
  • The campaign highlights the need for supportive policies and legislation that protect and promote breastfeeding.
  • For instance paid maternity leave, workplace accommodations for breastfeeding mothers, and access to lactation support.
• Encouraging community support
  • World Breastfeeding Week emphasizes the importance of family and community support for breastfeeding mothers.
  • It can play a crucial role in ensuring successful breastfeeding practices.
• Addressing challenges
  • The campaign also addresses challenges and barriers that may hinder mothers from breastfeeding, such as social stigma, lack of information, and insufficient support systems.

Breast Feeding Global Status

• Over the past ten years, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding throughout the world has climbed by an astounding 10 percentage points, reaching 48%.
• Countries as diverse as Ivory Coast, the Marshall Islands, the Philippines, Somalia and Vietnam have experienced significant increases in breastfeeding rates.
• UNICEF and WHO called on governments, donors, civil society and the private sector for achieving their breastfeeding goals and reach the global 2030 target of 70 per cent.

What are the Challenges in Breast Feeding in India?

Breastfeeding challenges in India, like in many parts of the world, can be influenced by a combination of cultural, societal, economic, and healthcare factors. While breastfeeding is considered a traditional and natural practice in India, there are several challenges that women and families may face when trying to establish and maintain successful breastfeeding practices. Some of these challenges include:

• Lack of Knowledge
  • Many mothers and families in India may lack accurate and up-to-date information about the benefits of breastfeeding.
  • Proper breastfeeding techniques, and the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant’s life.
• Early Initiation
  • Delayed initiation of breastfeeding after birth can be common due to cultural practices, hospital routines, and lack of awareness about the importance of immediate skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding.
• Mixed Feeding
  • The practice of introducing formula or other complementary foods at an early age, even before the recommended six months of exclusive breastfeeding, is common in India.
  • This can lead to challenges in establishing and maintaining a sufficient milk supply and can impact the infant’s health.
• Cultural Beliefs
  • Cultural beliefs and practices can influence breastfeeding behaviors. Some communities may hold beliefs that colostrum (the first milk) is “bad” for the baby, leading to missed opportunities for the newborn to receive important nutrients and immune protection.
• Lack of Support
  • Many mothers in India may lack support from family members, especially in urban areas where extended families are becoming less common.
  • Lack of support and encouragement can affect a mother’s confidence in breastfeeding.
• Maternity Leave and Workplace Support
  • Many women in India return to work shortly after giving birth due to limited maternity leave policies.
  • Inadequate workplace support for breastfeeding, such as lack of dedicated spaces for expressing milk, can make it difficult for mothers to continue breastfeeding after returning to work.
• Marketing of Infant Formula
  • Aggressive marketing of infant formula can influence parents’ decisions and undermine breastfeeding efforts, especially when coupled with misinformation.
• Healthcare System
  • Inadequate healthcare practices and a lack of trained healthcare professionals who can provide accurate breastfeeding support and guidance can impact a mother’s breastfeeding journey.
• Socioeconomic Factors
  • Poverty and limited access to healthcare services can affect a mother’s ability to provide optimal nutrition for her child, including breastfeeding.
• Urbanization
  • As more people move to urban areas, traditional practices related to breastfeeding and infant care may be disrupted, leading to a mix of practices that can affect breastfeeding outcomes.

Efforts in India to promote Breast Feeding

Efforts to address these challenges in India include awareness campaigns, community education programs, policy advocacy for supportive maternity leave and workplace policies, training healthcare professionals, and encouraging culturally sensitive approaches.

• Mother’s Absolute Affection (MAA) Programme
  • Launched in 2016, the MAA program aims to promote breastfeeding and support lactating mothers. It includes awareness campaigns, training of healthcare workers to provide breastfeeding counseling, and creating breastfeeding-friendly facilities in public places.
• Promotion of Breastfeeding in Medical Curriculum
  • The government has taken steps to include breastfeeding education in the medical curriculum.
  • Ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped to provide accurate information and support to mothers.
• Vatsalya – Maatri Amrit Kosh
  • Vatsalya, a National Human Milk Bank and Lactation Counselling Centre has been established in collaboration with the Norwegian government
• Anemia Mukt Bharat
  • Anemia can affect breastfeeding outcomes.
  • This initiative focuses on preventing and controlling anemia, which indirectly supports successful breastfeeding by improving maternal health.
• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)
  • This maternity benefit program provides financial support to pregnant and lactating mothers for their first live birth.
  • It aims to ensure proper nutrition and care during pregnancy and lactation.
• Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
  • It provides nutritional support, health care, and early childhood education to children and pregnant women.
  • Within ICDS, the Poshan Abhiyaan focuses on addressing malnutrition and promoting optimal breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices.
• Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY)
  • Financial assistance to pregnant women for accessing quality maternal healthcare services.
  • This indirectly supports breastfeeding by ensuring that mothers receive proper postpartum care and breastfeeding support in healthcare facilities.

Summary as Infographics

National Handloom Day

Source: PIB
GS III: Indian Economy

Overview

1. About National Handloom Day
2. Facts About Handloom Industry
3. What are the challenges in the handloom industry?

Why in News?

Every year August 7 is observed as the National Handloom Day in India to highlight the contribution of the handloom industry in socio-economic development and create awareness about the sector.

• Prime Minister launched the e-portal Bhartiya Vastra evam Shilpa Kosh – A Repository of Textiles & Crafts developed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology. 

About National Handloom Day

• It is under the aegis of the Ministry of Textiles.
• National Handloom Day is celebrated in India on August 7th each year.
• It was inaugurated by the Government of India in 2015 to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement, which was launched on August 7, 1905.
• The Swadeshi Movement was a significant milestone in India’s struggle for independence, encouraging the use of domestically produced goods and promoting indigenous industries.
• On National Handloom Day, the Indian government aims to promote and celebrate the country’s rich handloom heritage and recognize the contributions of handloom weavers and artisans to the socio-economic development of the nation.
• The day serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting the handloom sector, preserving traditional art forms, and promoting sustainable and eco-friendly textiles.
• Various events, exhibitions, workshops, and seminars are organized across the country on this day to create awareness about handloom products and their significance.
• It also provides an opportunity for weavers and artisans to showcase their unique craftsmanship and products to a wider audience.
• National Handloom Day plays a crucial role in promoting the Make in India initiative and encouraging citizens to support and buy handloom products, thus contributing to the livelihoods of countless weavers and helping to preserve India’s cultural heritage.s

Facts About Handloom Industry

• Traditional Art Forms
  • Handloom textiles in India are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and distinctive patterns.
  • Each region has its own traditional art forms and weaving techniques that have been preserved and passed down over centuries.
• Employment Generation
  • The handloom sector is a major source of employment, especially in rural areas.
  • It provides livelihoods to millions of weavers, artisans, dyers, and spinners, contributing to rural income and economic development.
• Cottage Industry
  • Handloom weaving is predominantly a cottage industry, with production often taking place in homes or small workshops.
  • This decentralized nature of production helps in promoting rural entrepreneurship and local economic development.
• Sustainable and Eco-friendly
  • Handloom weaving is generally considered eco-friendly as it uses minimal electricity, has a low carbon footprint, and often employs natural fibers and dyes.
• Diverse Range of Textiles
  • The handloom industry produces a wide variety of textiles, including sarees, shawls, scarves, stoles, dupattas, fabrics, and other traditional garments.
• Geographic Diversity
  • Different regions in India are known for their unique handloom products.
  • For example, Banarasi silk from Varanasi, Kanjeevaram silk from Tamil Nadu, Pashmina shawls from Kashmir, and many more.
• Government Support
  • The Indian government provides various support schemes and financial assistance to promote the handloom sector, improve weavers’ livelihoods, and ensure the preservation of traditional techniques.

What are the challenges in the handloom industry?

• Competition from Power Looms
  • One of the significant challenges faced by the handloom industry is competition from power looms.
  • Power looms can produce textiles at a faster rate and lower cost, leading to a price advantage over handloom products.
  • This competition affects the demand for handloom products and the livelihoods of handloom weavers.
• Limited Market Access
  • Handloom products often face challenges in reaching wider markets due to issues with marketing, distribution, and branding.
  • The lack of access to modern retail channels and e-commerce platforms can restrict the exposure of handloom products to a global audience.
• Technological Obsolescence
  • Traditional handloom weaving techniques may not always meet the demands of modern consumers in terms of design, efficiency, and production speed.
  • Lack of technology upgradation and innovation can hinder the industry’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences.
• Declining Interest among Younger Generations
  • The younger generation is increasingly opting for alternative career options, leading to a shortage of skilled handloom weavers.
  • The lack of interest in taking up traditional weaving as a profession may impact the industry’s continuity.
• Low-Profit Margins
  • Weavers often face challenges in getting fair compensation for their labor and expertise.
  • Low-profit margins can deter new weavers from entering the industry and also lead to economic hardships for existing weavers.
• Lack of Financial Support
  • Many weavers and small-scale handloom units face difficulties in accessing credit and financial assistance for investment in raw materials, equipment, and technology upgradation.
• Global Competition
  • The handloom industry faces competition from cheaper imported textiles, which can affect the demand for domestically produced handloom products.
• Infrastructure and Connectivity
  • Weavers often work in remote and rural areas, where access to infrastructure, transportation, and utilities may be limited.
  • Inadequate connectivity can impede access to markets and information.
• Imitation and Piracy
  • Traditional handloom designs and motifs are often replicated by other industries, leading to issues of plagiarism and loss of identity for genuine handloom products.

Conclusion

• Efforts are being made by the government, non-governmental organizations, and various stakeholders to promote and revitalize the handloom industry in India.
• Events like National Handloom Day, as mentioned earlier, play a role in creating awareness and encouraging the use of handloom products, which, in turn, supports the livelihoods of millions of artisans and weavers across the country.

Summary as Infographics

North East Venture Fund (NEVF)

Source: PIB
GS III: Indian Economy

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About North East Venture Fund (NEVF)
3. Key objectives of the North East Venture Fund

Why in News?

Information related to North East Venture Fund (NEVF) startup funding was given by Union Minister for Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.

News in Brief

• The startups, supported by NEVF, have identified the unique business opportunities available in the region.
• The details of the employment generated through these start-ups include the details of skilled and unskilled labors and female participation.
• To augment entrepreneurship opportunities among marginalized sections, NEDF has established its branch network across all the states of NER.
• Employment generated through NEVF supported start-ups are seen a drastic increase.

About North East Venture Fund (NEVF)

• North East Venture Fund (NEVF) is a government-backed initiative in India.
• It aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and supporting startups in the northeastern region of the country.
• The fund was established to encourage innovation, economic growth, and job creation in the states of the Northeastern region, which include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim.
• NEVF was established as a close ended fund with a target corpus of Rs. 100 crore.
• The NEVF is managed and operated by the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFi).
  • It is a is a public financial institution established to promote economic development in the Northeastern states.
• The fund is typically available to startups, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) operating in various sectors and industries in the region.
• NEVF is registered as a Category I Venture Capital Fund under Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Alternative Investment Funds (AIF) Regulations, 2012.

Key objectives of the North East Venture Fund

• Financial Support: Providing financial assistance, including equity, to startups and MSMEs in the Northeastern region to help them scale up their businesses and bring innovative products and services to the market.
• Job Creation: Supporting ventures that have the potential to create employment opportunities in the region, thereby contributing to local economic development.
• Encouraging Entrepreneurship: Promoting a culture of entrepreneurship in the Northeastern states by providing financial backing to promising startups and entrepreneurs.
• Regional Development: Facilitating the growth of industries and sectors in the region that can leverage its unique resources and strengths.
• Inclusive Growth: Focusing on inclusive development by supporting businesses from diverse sectors and communities.

Investments

• The North East Venture Fund typically invests in companies with innovative ideas, growth potential, and a positive impact on the region’s economic and social development.
• The fund may take equity stakes in these companies, providing them with financial backing and business support.

Summary as Infographics

Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS)

Source: PIB
GS II: Governance

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS)

Why in News?

National Health Authority (NHA) announces extension of its Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS) under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) till 31st December 2023.

News in Brief

• The DHIS was launched with effect from 1st January, 2023 as part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.

  

• The scheme proved to be a significant catalyst in promoting the adoption of digital health technologies and practices in healthcare delivery across the country.
• Owing to its impact and response from the healthcare providers and health tech companies, the scheme has been extended to allow more stakeholders to benefit from the financial incentives.

About Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS)

• It  is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to revolutionize healthcare by leveraging digital technology.
• This scheme, designed to encourage the adoption of digital health solutions, holds the potential to enhance healthcare accessibility, improve patient outcomes, and drive positive health behaviors.

Key Facts

• Unveiling the DHIS
  • It is a forward-thinking program that rewards individuals for embracing digital health technologies.
  • This initiative incentivizes the use of digital tools to empower individuals in managing their health and well-being effectively.
• Empowering Patients Through Technology
  • DHIS encourages patients to take charge of their health by utilizing digital platforms for health monitoring, appointment scheduling, and accessing medical information.
  • This empowerment fosters a proactive approach to well-being.
• Rewards for Health Consciousness
  • Participants in the scheme earn rewards for engaging in health-conscious activities such as tracking physical activity, adhering to medication schedules, and monitoring vital signs through approved digital applications.
• Enhanced Healthcare Access
  • DHIS promotes the utilization of telemedicine services, enabling patients to consult healthcare professionals virtually.
  • This innovation increases healthcare accessibility, especially for individuals in remote areas.
• Improved Patient-Doctor Communication
  • By facilitating secure digital communication between patients and healthcare providers, DHIS streamlines medical consultations, follow-ups, and prescription renewals, fostering efficient care delivery.
• Preventive Healthcare Focus
  • The scheme encourages preventive healthcare practices by motivating participants to engage in health screenings, vaccinations, and wellness programs using digital platforms.
• Health Data Privacy and Security
  • DHIS ensures the privacy and security of participants’ health data through robust data protection measures, building trust in the use of digital health solutions.
• HealthTech Collaboration
  • DHIS promotes collaboration between healthcare providers and technology companies, resulting in the development of innovative digital health solutions that cater to diverse healthcare needs.
• Steps Toward a Healthier Future
  • The Digital Health Incentives Scheme aligns with the broader goal of advancing public health outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and creating a digitally enabled healthcare ecosystem.

Conclusion

• The Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS) emerges as a beacon of progress in healthcare, harmonizing technology with wellness.
• By offering incentives for adopting digital health solutions, DHIS not only empowers individuals but also contributes to a transformative shift in healthcare delivery.
• As the scheme gains momentum, it propels us toward a future where digital innovation and health converge for the betterment of society as a whole.

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