IAS Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs 17 August 2023 – IAS Current Affairs

IAS Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs 17 August 2023 – IAS Current Affairs

Current Affairs 17 August 2023 focuses on Prelims-Mains perspective. Major events are :

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Source: PIB
GS II: Health; GS III: Science and Tech

Overview

  1. News in Brief
  2. About In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
  3. Fertility business in India

Why in News?

Goa is offering free in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, a first among Indian states.

News in Brief

  • Almost 100 parents have already registered for the treatment.
  • The treatments in India cost between Rs 70,000 to Rs 3 lakh per cycle in many hospitals.
  • The funding is set to be supplied by approved corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.
  • The department is serving a substantial number of patients annually, including 19,000 OPD patients

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): IVF is a complex medical procedure used to help individuals and couples who are struggling with infertility conceive a child.

  • It involves combining an egg and sperm outside the body in a laboratory dish to create an embryo.

    Photo by Nadezhda Moryak

  • Once the embryo is formed, it is then implanted into the woman’s uterus, where it has the potential to develop into a pregnancy.
  • IVF can be used to address various causes of infertility, including fallopian tube blockages, male infertility, unexplained infertility, and certain medical conditions.
  • It is also sometimes used in cases where other fertility treatments have not been successful.
  • IVF is a significant advancement in reproductive medicine and has helped many couples and individuals achieve their dream of parenthood.
  • However, the process can be physically and emotionally demanding, and success rates can vary based on various factors such as age and underlying medical conditions.

The IVF process typically involves several steps

  • Ovulation Stimulation: The woman is given hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the usual one egg during a menstrual cycle.
  • Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, a medical procedure is performed to retrieve the eggs from the ovaries using a thin needle.
  • Sperm Collection: A semen sample is collected from the male partner or a sperm donor.
  • Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with the sperm in a laboratory dish. The resulting embryos are monitored for development.
  • Embryo Transfer: The healthiest embryos are selected for transfer into the woman’s uterus. This is typically done a few days after fertilization.
  • Implantation: If the embryo successfully attaches to the uterine lining, pregnancy can occur.

Fertility business in India

  • The fertility business in India has experienced significant growth and development in recent years.
  • Fertility business in the country has expanded 15-20% each year over the last five years.
  • The country presently sees between 250000 to 300,000 IVF treatments each year.
  • This increase is due to the country’s underlying surge in infertility, which now affects at least 15% of Indian couples.
  • Fertility disorders affect around 2.75 crore Indian couples
    • This number is expected to climb as sedentary lifestyles, stress, obesity, and other medical conditions become more prevalent.

Key Facts about the fertility industry in India

  • Rising Demand
    • The increasing incidence of infertility due to various factors such as lifestyle changes, delayed marriages, and medical conditions has led to a growing demand for fertility treatments in India.
  • Medical Tourism
    • India has become a popular destination for medical tourism, including fertility treatments.
    • International patients seek fertility treatments in India due to the availability of advanced medical facilities, skilled doctors, and comparatively lower costs.
  • Fertility Clinics
    • Across major cities in India, numerous fertility clinics and assisted reproductive technology (ART) centers have emerged.
    • These clinics offer a range of treatments including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), surrogacy, and egg donation.
  • Advanced Technologies
    • Fertility clinics in India have adopted advanced technologies and procedures, ensuring higher success rates for fertility treatments.
    • They offer services such as preimplantation genetic testing, embryo freezing, and more.
  • Affordability
    • Indians 
      • Sometimes regarded excessive, limiting access to these services for many people.
      • Many patients have no idea how much the treatment will wind up costing throughout its whole lifecycle
    • For Foreigners 
      • The cost of fertility treatments in India is generally lower than in many Western countries.
      • This affordability factor has contributed to India’s popularity as a fertility destination.
  • Regulation and Guidelines
    • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has laid down guidelines and regulations to govern the practice of assisted reproductive technology in the country.
    • These guidelines address ethical concerns and ensure patient safety.
  • Surrogacy
    • India was once known for commercial surrogacy services, attracting couples from around the world.
    • However, in recent years, regulations have become stricter, and commercial surrogacy for foreign nationals has been banned.
  • Ethical and Legal Considerations
    • The ethical implications of fertility treatments, surrogacy, and egg donation have prompted discussions about the need for comprehensive regulations to protect the rights of all parties involved.
  • Challenges and Concerns
    • While the growth of the fertility industry has been positive, there have been concerns related to ethical practices, the exploitation of surrogates, and the lack of comprehensive legal frameworks.
  • Counseling and Support
    • Many fertility clinics offer counseling and psychological support to couples undergoing fertility treatments, recognizing the emotional and psychological challenges that can arise.

India and Suriname Relation

Source: PIB
GS II: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Overview

  1. News in Brief
  2. About MoU
  3. About Suriname

Why in News?

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 4th June, 2023 between the Indian  Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of the Republic of India and Ministry of Health, Government of the Republic of Suriname for Recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) in Suriname.

News in Brief

  • Convergence in the regulatory practices could help in increasing the export of medicines from India and consequentially help in better employment opportunities for educated professionals in the Pharmaceutical sector.
  • The Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) is officially recognized by five (5) countries
    • Afghanistan
    • Ghana
    • Nepal
    • Mauritius
    • The Republic of Suriname.
  • The Ministry seeks to expand the nations which recognize the IP.

About MoU

  • Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) as a book of standards for medicines in Suriname so as to ensure quality of medicines being manufactured and/or imported in Suriname.
  • Certificate of Analysis issued by Indian manufacturers per IP.
  • IPRS and Impurity standards from IPC at a reasonably low cost to be used during the quality control analysis.
  • Promote an understanding of pharmacopoeia in the regulatory framework.

Indian Pharmacopoeia benefits to the Indian pharmaceutical sector

  • Boost the export of Indian pharmaceutical products to these countries.
  • Importing nations would gain access to quality Indian medical products at affordable prices.
  • Manufacturers in importing countries would have better scope for development of generic medicines.
  • Various reference standards and impurity standards would become available to these manufacturers at a reasonable cost.

About Suriname

  • Geography
    • Suriname is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, French Guiana to the east, Brazil to the south, and Guyana to the west.
    • The country has a diverse landscape that includes tropical rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas.
  • Capital and Largest City
    • The capital city of Suriname is Paramaribo, which is also the largest city and the economic and cultural center of the country.
  • Ethnic Diversity
    • Suriname is known for its ethnic diversity, with a population that includes various ethnic groups, such as Hindustani (people of Indian descent), Creoles (people of African descent), Javanese (people of Javanese descent), Maroons (descendants of escaped African slaves), and Indigenous peoples.
  • Languages
    • The official language of Suriname is Dutch, reflecting its colonial history.
    • However, many Surinamese people also speak Sranan Tongo, a Creole language, as well as other languages associated with their ethnic backgrounds.
  • History
    • Suriname was a Dutch colony from the 17th century until it gained independence on November 25, 1975.
    • The country’s history is marked by colonization, the African slave trade, and the indentured labor system, which brought Indian and Javanese workers to the country.
  • Economy
    • Suriname’s economy is based on various sectors, including mining (particularly gold, bauxite, and oil), agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
    • The country is rich in natural resources, but economic challenges and environmental concerns exist.
  • Cultural Heritage
    • Suriname’s diverse ethnic groups have contributed to a rich cultural heritage.
    • This is reflected in the country’s music, dance, cuisine, festivals, and religious practices.
  • Religions
    • The population of Suriname practices a variety of religions, including Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Indigenous spiritual beliefs.
    • Religious tolerance is an important aspect of Surinamese society.
  • Biodiversity
    • Suriname is home to extensive rainforests and unique ecosystems that support a wide range of plant and animal species.
    • The country’s natural beauty and biodiversity contribute to its potential for ecotourism.
  • Government
    • Suriname is a presidential republic with a multi-party political system.
    • The President of Suriname is both the head of state and head of government.
  • Cultural Connections
    • Due to its diverse population, Suriname has strong cultural connections with various countries, including the Netherlands, India, Indonesia, and other Caribbean nations.

India and Suriname Relation

WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine

Source: PIB
GS II: Health

Overview

  1. News in Brief
  2. WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine
  3. What are Traditional Medicines?

Why in News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush convened the first-ever global summit on traditional medicine in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

News in Brief

  • Two-day global summit was inaugurated by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on August 17, Thursday.
  • India has a rich history of traditional medicine through Ayurveda, including Yoga, which has been shown to be effective in alleviating pain.
  • The Gujarat Declaration, the main outcome of this summit, will focus on the integration of traditional medicines in national health systems, and help unlock the power of traditional medicine through science.

Important Outcomes of WHO Global Summit

  • Focusing on the role of traditional medical practices in addressing health challenges and promoting sustainable development.

    Photo by Katherine Hanlon on Unsplash

  • The three main focus areas of the meeting include
    • Health emergencies prevention
    • Pharmaceutical sector cooperation
    • Digital health innovations for universal health coverage.
  • Global Centre on Traditional Medicines was established by the WHO.
  • By the end of th 12,500 Ayush-based Health & wellness centres will be functional across e year, more than 12,500 Ayush-based Health & wellness centres will be functional across the nation, out of which 8,500 are already in place.
  • The Ayush Exhibition Zone will be set-up with promises of an immersive experience with innovative and interactive kiosks.
  • The Ayush VISA will facilitate global access to Indian traditional medicine systems and will usher in a new era of comprehensive healthcare.

What are Traditional Medicines?

According to WHO

The sum total of the knowledge, skills and practices indigenous and different cultures have used over time to maintain health and prevent, diagnose and treat physical and mental illness.

Key Facts

  • Ancient Healing Systems
    • Traditional medicines encompass a wide range of healing practices and systems that have evolved over generations.
    • Examples include Ayurveda from India, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) from China, Unani from the Middle East, and Indigenous healing practices from various cultures.
  • Holistic Approach
    • Traditional medicines often take a holistic approach to health, considering the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit.
    • Treatments aim to restore balance and harmony within the individual and their environment.
  • Natural Ingredients
    • Many traditional medicines are derived from natural sources such as herbs, plants, minerals, and animal products.
    • These remedies are often prepared in specific ways to extract their medicinal properties.
  • Individualized Treatments
    • Traditional healers assess each patient’s unique constitution, symptoms, and imbalances before prescribing treatments.
    • This personalized approach acknowledges that individuals may respond differently to the same remedy.
  • Cultural Heritage and Knowledge
    • Traditional medicines are deeply rooted in cultural traditions, beliefs, and knowledge systems.
    • They often incorporate rituals, ceremonies, and practices that reflect the cultural identity of a community.

Traditional Medicines in India

Traditional medicines in India have a rich history and continue to play a significant role in healthcare and wellness. Key points about traditional medicines in India

  • Ayurveda
    • Ayurveda is one of the oldest and most well-known traditional systems of medicine in India.
    • It emphasizes a holistic approach to health, focusing on balancing the body, mind, and spirit.
    • Ayurvedic treatments often involve herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, yoga, meditation, and detoxification practices.
  • Unani Medicine
    • Unani is a system of medicine that originated in ancient Greece and was later adopted and developed in India.
    • It emphasizes the balance of the four humors in the body and uses natural substances such as herbs, minerals, and animal products to treat diseases.
  • Siddha Medicine
    • Siddha is a traditional system of medicine that originated in the southern part of India, particularly in Tamil Nadu.
    • It is based on the concept of “Pancha Bhoota,” which refers to the five elements of earth, water, fire, air, and ether.
    • Siddha treatments include herbal medicines, dietary recommendations, and yoga practices.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
    • While not native to India, TCM has gained popularity in the country.
    • It includes practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping therapy, and qigong.
    • TCM focuses on balancing the body’s vital energy (qi) and the concept of yin and yang.
  • Homeopathy
    • Homeopathy is a system of medicine developed by Samuel Hahnemann.
    • It is based on the principle of “like cures like,” where a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person is used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person.
    • Homeopathic remedies are highly diluted and believed to stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms.
  • Integration with Modern Medicine
    • In recent years, there has been a growing interest in integrating traditional medicines with modern healthcare practices.
    • Many traditional remedies and practices have undergone scientific research to validate their efficacy and safety.
  • Government Support
    • The Indian government recognizes the importance of traditional medicines and has established regulatory bodies such as the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) to promote and regulate traditional systems of medicine.
  • Global Popularity
    • Traditional Indian medicines have gained recognition and popularity beyond India’s borders.
    • Ayurveda, in particular, has been embraced globally for its holistic approach to health and wellness.
  • Cultural Significance
    • Traditional medicines are deeply ingrained in India’s cultural heritage.
    • They are often associated with festivals, rituals, and traditional practices that reflect the country’s diverse and ancient knowledge systems.

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