{"id":2120,"date":"2024-10-23T08:36:16","date_gmt":"2024-10-23T08:36:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/?p=2120"},"modified":"2024-10-23T11:53:20","modified_gmt":"2024-10-23T11:53:20","slug":"current-affair-9-october-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"Current Affair &#8211; 9 October 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Knowledge_Nugget_of_the_Day_Classical_Languages\" >Knowledge Nugget of the Day: Classical Languages<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_in_News\" >What in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Classical_Languages\" >Classical Languages<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Origins_of_the_%E2%80%9CClassical_Language%E2%80%9D_Status\" >Origins of the &#8220;Classical Language&#8221; Status<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Revised_Criteria_for_Classical_Language_Status\" >Revised Criteria for Classical Language Status<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Criteria_for_Classical_Language_Status\" >Criteria for Classical Language Status<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#List_of_Classical_Languages\" >List of Classical Languages<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#About_the_New_Classical_Languages\" >About the New Classical Languages<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Art_and_Culture_with_Devdutt_Pattanaik_Rise_and_Fall_of_Cities_in_India\" >Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik | Rise and Fall of Cities in India<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_in_News-2\" >What in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#First_Urbanisation_Harappan_Period\" >First Urbanisation (Harappan Period)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Second_Urbanisation_Mahajanapadas\" >Second Urbanisation (Mahajanapadas)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Third_Urbanisation_Temple_Cities\" >Third Urbanisation (Temple Cities)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Fourth_Urbanisation_Muslim_Metropolis\" >Fourth Urbanisation (Muslim Metropolis)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Fifth_Urbanisation_Colonial_and_Post-Colonial_Cities\" >Fifth Urbanisation (Colonial and Post-Colonial Cities)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Conclusion-2\" >Conclusion:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Significance_of_Empowering_Local_Bodies_for_Effective_Urban_Governance_in_India\" >Significance of Empowering Local Bodies for Effective Urban Governance in India<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_in_News-3\" >What in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Structure_of_Urban_Local_Bodies_ULBs\" >Structure of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Role_and_Evolution_of_ULBs\" >Role and Evolution of ULBs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#74th_Constitutional_Amendment_Act_1992_Includes\" >74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 Includes:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Challenges_Faced_by_ULBs\" >Challenges Faced by ULBs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Way_Forward\" >Way Forward<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_Does_the_USCIRF_Report_Say_About_India\" >What Does the USCIRF Report Say About India?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_in_News-4\" >What in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_is_the_USCIRF\" >What is the USCIRF?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Distinct_Functions\" >Distinct Functions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_Does_the_USCIRF_Do\" >What Does the USCIRF Do?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_Does_USCIRFs_Country_Update_on_India_State\" >What Does USCIRF\u2019s Country Update on India State?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Citizenship_Amendment_Act_CAA\" >Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA):<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Key_Provisions_of_CAA\" >Key Provisions of CAA<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Conclusion-3\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Nobel_Prize_in_Physics_2024_John_Hopfield_Geoffrey_Hinton_Awarded_for_Work_on_Machine_Learning\" >Nobel Prize in Physics 2024: John Hopfield, Geoffrey Hinton Awarded for Work on Machine Learning<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_in_News-5\" >What in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#John_Hopfields_Contributions\" >John Hopfield&#8217;s Contributions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Geoffrey_Hintons_Contributions\" >Geoffrey Hinton&#8217;s Contributions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Boltzmann_Machine\" >Boltzmann Machine<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Key_Components\" >Key Components<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Applications\" >Applications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Impact_of_Discovery\" >Impact of Discovery<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Conclusion-4\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Global_Digital_Compact_Advancing_Digital_Innovation_in_a_Sustainable_Fashion\" >Global Digital Compact: Advancing Digital Innovation in a Sustainable Fashion<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_in_News-6\" >What in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_is_the_Global_Digital_Compact_GDC\" >What is the Global Digital Compact (GDC)?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Objectives_of_the_GDC\" >Objectives of the GDC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Principles_of_the_GDC\" >Principles of the GDC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Digital_Public_Goods\" >Digital Public Goods<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Critiques_of_the_GDC\" >Critiques of the GDC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Conclusion-5\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#India_has_Eliminated_Trachoma_as_a_Public_Health_Problem_WHO\" >India has Eliminated Trachoma as a Public Health Problem: WHO<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_in_News-7\" >What in News?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#What_is_Trachoma\" >What is Trachoma?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Key_Features_of_Trachoma\" >Key Features of Trachoma<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Indias_Achievement\" >India\u2019s Achievement<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/#Conclusion-6\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Knowledge_Nugget_of_the_Day_Classical_Languages\"><\/span><strong>Knowledge Nugget of the Day: Classical Languages<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_in_News\"><\/span><strong>What in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>As the Union Cabinet extends the &#8220;classical language&#8221; designation to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Classical_Languages\"><\/span><strong>Classical Languages<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Classical languages are seen as custodians of India\u2019s ancient cultural heritage. These languages preserve rich histories, literature, and traditions of their respective communities. Languages granted classical status are honored for their role in safeguarding linguistic milestones.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Origins_of_the_%E2%80%9CClassical_Language%E2%80%9D_Status\"><\/span><strong>Origins of the &#8220;Classical Language&#8221; Status<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In October 2004, the Indian government introduced the category of &#8220;Classical Languages,&#8221; with Tamil being the first to receive the status on October 12, 2004, for its rich antiquity and literary tradition.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Revised_Criteria_for_Classical_Language_Status\"><\/span><strong>Revised Criteria for Classical Language Status<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Linguistic Experts Committee (LEC), formed in 2004, plays a crucial role in evaluating languages for classical status. In July 2024, the LEC revised the criteria, recommending Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali for inclusion.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Criteria_for_Classical_Language_Status\"><\/span><strong>Criteria for Classical Language Status<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Antiquity:<\/strong> The language must have a history dating back at least 1,500-2,000 years.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rich Literary Tradition:<\/strong> The language should have an extensive body of literature of cultural or historical significance.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Independent Tradition:<\/strong> It should be distinct from modern forms or external influences.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"List_of_Classical_Languages\"><\/span><strong>List of Classical Languages<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The newly designated languages bring the total number of classical languages in India to 11. Previously recognized languages include Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), and Odia (2014).<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_the_New_Classical_Languages\"><\/span><strong>About the New Classical Languages<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Marathi:<\/strong> Descended from Maharashtri Prakrit, with the earliest modern form dating to 739 CE.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bengali &amp; Assamese:<\/strong> Originated from Magadhi Prakrit, with roots going back to East India.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Prakrit:<\/strong> Refers to a group of vernacular languages spoken by the masses in ancient India.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pali:<\/strong> Known for its association with Buddhist texts. The Pali Canon falls into three general categories or pitaka (basket) known as Tipitaka (\u201cthree baskets\u201d):\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Vinaya Pitaka:<\/strong> The \u201cDiscipline Basket,\u201d dealing with rules or discipline of the Buddhist sangha (monastic order).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sutta Pitaka:<\/strong> The largest basket comprising discourses and sermons of the Buddha himself, as well as some religious poetry.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Abhidhamma Pitaka:<\/strong> The basket that further elaborates on Buddhist philosophy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>After Theravada Buddhism declined in India, Pali survived in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The recent recognition of Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali as classical languages highlights the importance of linguistic diversity and heritage in India.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Art_and_Culture_with_Devdutt_Pattanaik_Rise_and_Fall_of_Cities_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik | Rise and Fall of Cities in India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_in_News-2\"><\/span><strong>What in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Broadly speaking, India has undergone five urbanisations. But how did India\u2019s urbanisation evolve from the mercantile Harappan period to the post-independence industrial cities?<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"First_Urbanisation_Harappan_Period\"><\/span><strong>First Urbanisation (Harappan Period)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Timeframe:<\/strong> 2500-1900 BCE<\/p>\n<p><strong>Region:<\/strong> North-western India, present-day Pakistan<\/p>\n<p><strong>Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Mercantile cities with organised, grid-like structures.<\/li>\n<li>Standardisation of weights, measures, and brick ratios.<\/li>\n<li>No evidence of centralized monarchy, wars, or prisons.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Sites:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Harappa in 1826 (Punjab, Pakistan)<\/li>\n<li>Mohenjodaro in 1922 (Sindh, Pakistan)<\/li>\n<li>Rakhigarhi in 1963 (Haryana, India)<\/li>\n<li>Kalibangan in 1953 (Rajasthan, India)<\/li>\n<li>Dholavira in 1967-68 (Gujarat, India)<\/li>\n<li>Lothal in 1954 (Gujarat, India)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Second_Urbanisation_Mahajanapadas\"><\/span><strong>Second Urbanisation (Mahajanapadas)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Timeframe:<\/strong> 1500-500 BCE<\/p>\n<p><strong>Region:<\/strong> Gangetic Plains<\/p>\n<p><strong>Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Aryan migration from Southern Russia.<\/li>\n<li>Rise of 16 Mahajanapadas across north India, from Gandhara to Magadha.<\/li>\n<li>Trade hubs with toll taxes and punch-marked coins.<\/li>\n<li>Monastic orders like Buddhism and Jainism flourished as trade grew.<\/li>\n<li>Fall due to Roman Empire&#8217;s collapse and Hun invasions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Third_Urbanisation_Temple_Cities\"><\/span><strong>Third Urbanisation (Temple Cities)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Timeframe:<\/strong> 4th-10th Century CE<\/p>\n<p><strong>Region:<\/strong> South India and Southeast Asia<\/p>\n<p><strong>Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Temples became political and economic centres.<\/li>\n<li>Shift to agriculture with the rise of Brahmadeya (land donations to Brahmins).<\/li>\n<li>Full temple urbanisation in the Chola period.<\/li>\n<li>Solidification of the caste system.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fourth_Urbanisation_Muslim_Metropolis\"><\/span><strong>Fourth Urbanisation (Muslim Metropolis)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Timeframe:<\/strong> 12th-17th Century CE<\/p>\n<p><strong>Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Feudal system replaced monetary payments to courtiers.<\/li>\n<li>Rise of cities like Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Gulbarga.<\/li>\n<li>Spread of Sufism and prominence of Dargahs and Pirs.<\/li>\n<li>Centrality of Jama Masjid and Friday prayers for political authority.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fifth_Urbanisation_Colonial_and_Post-Colonial_Cities\"><\/span><strong>Fifth Urbanisation (Colonial and Post-Colonial Cities)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Timeframe:<\/strong> 17th Century onwards<\/p>\n<p><strong>Colonial Period:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British established coastal cities like Bombay, Calcutta, and Chennai.<\/li>\n<li>Forts, churches, and administrative buildings marked the urban landscape.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Post-Independence:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Planned cities like Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar, and Gandhinagar developed.<\/li>\n<li>Industrial cities like Bhilai, Jamshedpur, and Rourkela emerged with socialist policies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-2\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The rise and fall of cities in India reflects the country\u2019s shifting socio-economic and political landscape. From mercantile Harappan cities to colonial and industrial centres, each phase of urbanisation has left a lasting impact on the nation\u2019s culture and heritage.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Significance_of_Empowering_Local_Bodies_for_Effective_Urban_Governance_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Significance of Empowering Local Bodies for Effective Urban Governance in India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_in_News-3\"><\/span><strong>What in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 granted constitutional status to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) as the third tier of governance in India. However, ULBs face several challenges, including limited financial resources, political autonomy, and low state capacity.<\/p>\n<p>ULBs are government bodies that manage urban areas, focusing on services like sanitation, water supply, roads, public health, and education at the city and town levels.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Structure_of_Urban_Local_Bodies_ULBs\"><\/span><strong>Structure of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Classified into three main categories based on the size of the urban area:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Municipal Corporations:<\/strong> For large cities with populations exceeding 1 million.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Municipalities:<\/strong> For smaller urban areas with populations between 100,000 and 1 million.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Nagar Panchayats:<\/strong> For transitional areas between rural and urban, i.e., areas that are in the process of becoming urbanized.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Role_and_Evolution_of_ULBs\"><\/span><strong>Role and Evolution of ULBs<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Historical Background:<\/strong> Pre-colonial Indian cities had informal governance structures, which changed with the British establishment of improvement trusts to address urban sanitation and epidemics. The first municipal body was established in Madras in 1687.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Lord Ripon\u2019s Contribution (1882):<\/strong> Considered the father of local self-government, he laid the foundation for democratic municipal governance.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Post-Independence:<\/strong> The 74th Amendment in 1992 recognized ULBs as the third tier of governance, with responsibilities spanning urban planning, land use, and public health. The 12th Schedule outlines 18 functions.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"74th_Constitutional_Amendment_Act_1992_Includes\"><\/span><strong>74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 Includes:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Three-tier governance structure:<\/strong> Urban local governance at different levels (Corporation, Municipality, and Nagar Panchayat).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Elections every five years:<\/strong> Ensures regular elections to the ULBs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Reservation of seats:<\/strong> Provisions for the reservation of seats for SCs, STs, and women (33% reservation for women).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Devolution of powers:<\/strong> ULBs are assigned specific functions related to urban planning, regulation of land use, water supply, public health, and sanitation through Schedule 12 of the Constitution.<\/li>\n<li><strong>State Finance Commissions:<\/strong> Set up every five years to recommend financial allocation to ULBs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_Faced_by_ULBs\"><\/span><strong>Challenges Faced by ULBs<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) face financial constraints, relying on property taxes and state funds with limited revenue generation. They lack political autonomy, as state-appointed commissioners control operations, and suffer from low state capacity with a severe shortage of planners, hampering effective urban management.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Way_Forward\"><\/span><strong>Way Forward<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Grant ULBs greater financial autonomy through market-based revenue measures and participatory budgeting.<\/li>\n<li>Decentralize decision-making, giving more executive powers to mayors, as seen globally.<\/li>\n<li>Improve technical expertise by recruiting planners and experts.<\/li>\n<li>Emphasize a decentralized approach to tackle local challenges effectively at the local level.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_the_USCIRF_Report_Say_About_India\"><\/span><strong>What Does the USCIRF Report Say About India?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_in_News-4\"><\/span><strong>What in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recently highlighted concerns regarding religious freedom in India in its annual report.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_USCIRF\"><\/span><strong>What is the USCIRF?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan U.S. federal government agency established under the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). Its mission is to monitor the right to freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) in countries outside the U.S., basing its assessments on international human rights standards, particularly Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distinct_Functions\"><\/span><strong>Distinct Functions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The USCIRF operates independently from the Office of International Religious Freedom (IRF), part of the U.S. State Department. While USCIRF\u2019s reports may influence a country\u2019s global image, the IRF\u2019s assessments have a more direct impact on diplomatic relations.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_the_USCIRF_Do\"><\/span><strong>What Does the USCIRF Do?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The USCIRF monitors religious freedom conditions globally through research, travel, and engagement with international human rights groups, victims of persecution, and foreign officials. Its annual report designates countries based on their religious freedom records, identifying them as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Country of Particular Concern (CPC):<\/strong> Countries committing systematic and egregious violations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Special Watch List (SWL):<\/strong> Countries tolerating severe violations that don\u2019t reach the CPC threshold.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If the U.S. State Department accepts USCIRF&#8217;s recommendations, it may impose various policy options, including sanctions.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_USCIRFs_Country_Update_on_India_State\"><\/span><strong>What Does USCIRF\u2019s Country Update on India State?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The 2024 report indicates a <strong>&#8220;deteriorating trajectory&#8221;<\/strong> for religious freedom in India, citing:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Legislative actions, including the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which allegedly repress minority communities.<\/li>\n<li>Reports of vigilante violence against minorities and discriminatory laws, such as anti-conversion laws and cow slaughter bans.<\/li>\n<li>The use of inflammatory rhetoric by officials, leading to violence and the demolition of places of worship.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As a result, USCIRF has designated India as a <strong>CPC<\/strong> for the year.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Citizenship_Amendment_Act_CAA\"><\/span><strong>Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA):<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), enacted in December 2019, is a significant legislative measure that has implications for Indian citizenship and minority rights.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Provisions_of_CAA\"><\/span><strong>Key Provisions of CAA<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Eligibility Criteria:<\/strong> Grants citizenship to non-Muslim religious minorities\u2014Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians\u2014from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who entered India before December 31, 2014.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Exemption Clauses:<\/strong> The Act excludes certain regions, including tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland, as well as areas under the Inner Line Permit (ILP).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Naturaliation Process:<\/strong> Reduces the residency requirement for these communities from 11 years to 5 years for acquiring Indian citizenship.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-3\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India&#8217;s rejection of the USCIRF report reflects ongoing tensions between international scrutiny and domestic policies, emphasizing the complex dynamics of religious freedom and governance.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nobel_Prize_in_Physics_2024_John_Hopfield_Geoffrey_Hinton_Awarded_for_Work_on_Machine_Learning\"><\/span><strong>Nobel Prize in Physics 2024: John Hopfield, Geoffrey Hinton Awarded for Work on Machine Learning<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_in_News-5\"><\/span><strong>What in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded for discovery and inventions in machine learning using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs).<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"John_Hopfields_Contributions\"><\/span><strong>John Hopfield&#8217;s Contributions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Developed the <strong>Hopfield network<\/strong>, a form of Recurrent Neural Network (RNN).<\/li>\n<li>Introduced the concept of <strong>Hebbian learning<\/strong>, where connections between neurons strengthen with repeated stimulation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Geoffrey_Hintons_Contributions\"><\/span><strong>Geoffrey Hinton&#8217;s Contributions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Advanced the <strong>Boltzmann machine<\/strong> for cognitive tasks, building on Hopfield&#8217;s principles.<\/li>\n<li>Pioneered a <strong>learning algorithm<\/strong> for restricted Boltzmann machines (RBMs), allowing for the development of deep learning networks by stacking layers of neurons.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Boltzmann_Machine\"><\/span><strong>Boltzmann Machine<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A type of stochastic recurrent neural network that can learn internal representations of data.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Components\"><\/span><strong>Key Components<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Architecture:<\/strong> Comprises visible and hidden layers. Nodes in the visible layer represent input data, while hidden nodes capture dependencies among visible variables.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Energy Function:<\/strong> Measures the likelihood of a given configuration of states (active\/inactive nodes). The goal is to minimize the optimal representation of the input data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Applications\"><\/span><strong>Applications<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Deep Learning:<\/strong> Acts as a building block for deep belief networks.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Feature Learning:<\/strong> Useful in unsupervised learning for discovering hidden patterns in data.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Generative Models:<\/strong> Can generate new data samples that are statistically similar to the training data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_of_Discovery\"><\/span><strong>Impact of Discovery<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Their research has led to significant successes across numerous applications, revolutionizing approaches in diverse scientific and practical fields.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-4\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics highlights the groundbreaking work of John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton in machine learning and artificial neural networks.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Global_Digital_Compact_Advancing_Digital_Innovation_in_a_Sustainable_Fashion\"><\/span><strong>Global Digital Compact: Advancing Digital Innovation in a Sustainable Fashion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_in_News-6\"><\/span><strong>What in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>&#8216;Global Digital Compact&#8217;<\/strong> adopted at the UN&#8217;s <strong>&#8216;Summit of the Future&#8217;<\/strong> seeks to harness and regulate digital technologies for global welfare and cooperation.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Global_Digital_Compact_GDC\"><\/span><strong>What is the Global Digital Compact (GDC)?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The GDC is a non-binding diplomatic instrument designed to establish shared goals for governments, institutions, firms, and stakeholders regarding digital technologies. While it is not legally binding, greater adherence to its principles may lead to soft laws in various countries. It builds upon previous UN initiatives, such as the Global Compact and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Objectives_of_the_GDC\"><\/span><strong>Objectives of the GDC<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The GDC seeks to address the dual nature of digital technologies, recognizing their potential benefits and challenges. Key aims include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Promoting sustainable development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).<\/li>\n<li>Ensuring human oversight of technologies to advance sustainable development.<\/li>\n<li>Establishing two panels: an <strong>&#8216;Independent International Scientific Panel on AI&#8217;<\/strong> and a <strong>&#8216;Global Dialogue on AI Governance.&#8217;<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Principles_of_the_GDC\"><\/span><strong>Principles of the GDC<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The GDC is built on principles of inclusive participation, access to data and digital technologies, sustainability, and the promotion of trustworthy technologies within competitive markets. It also emphasizes closing the digital divide and improving access to data.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Digital_Public_Goods\"><\/span><strong>Digital Public Goods<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To tackle the digital divide, the GDC proposes the development of <strong>&#8220;digital public goods,&#8221;<\/strong> including open-source software, open data, and open AI models.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Critiques_of_the_GDC\"><\/span><strong>Critiques of the GDC<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Despite its ambitious goals, the GDC has several shortcomings:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Limited Openness in Partnerships<\/li>\n<li>Self-Regulation of Tech Companies<\/li>\n<li>Data Governance Challenges<\/li>\n<li>Unclear Governance Framework<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-5\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The GDC may not revolutionize digital technology governance but could facilitate significant outcomes if member states engage with its principles seriously. Achieving the goals set by the GDC will require ongoing collaboration and regional negotiations to address specific jurisdictional needs.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"India_has_Eliminated_Trachoma_as_a_Public_Health_Problem_WHO\"><\/span><strong>India has Eliminated Trachoma as a Public Health Problem: WHO<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_in_News-7\"><\/span><strong>What in News?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India is the third country in the global health body\u2019s South-East Asia Region to reach this important public health milestone. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized India for successfully eliminating trachoma as a public health problem, becoming the third country in the South-East Asia Region to achieve this milestone. This announcement was made during the 77th Regional Conference of WHO South-East Asia on October 8, 2024.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Trachoma\"><\/span><strong>What is Trachoma?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Trachoma is a bacterial infection caused by <em>Chlamydia trachomatis<\/em> that primarily affects the eyes. It is the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. The disease is transmitted through direct contact with infected eye discharge and can also spread through contaminated water or surfaces.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Features_of_Trachoma\"><\/span><strong>Key Features of Trachoma<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Symptoms:<\/strong> Initial symptoms include mild conjunctivitis, which can progress to severe inflammation of the inner eyelid, causing scarring and potentially leading to vision loss.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Risk Factors:<\/strong> Poor sanitation, inadequate access to clean water, and overcrowding contribute to the spread of trachoma. It is especially prevalent in communities lacking basic hygiene and sanitation practices.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Prevention and Control:<\/strong> The WHO recommends the SAFE strategy for trachoma control:\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Surgery:<\/strong> For patients with trichiasis (inward turning of eyelashes).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Antibiotics:<\/strong> To treat active infections.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Facial cleanliness:<\/strong> Promoting hygiene to prevent the spread of the infection.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Environmental improvement:<\/strong> Enhancing access to clean water and sanitation facilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indias_Achievement\"><\/span><strong>India\u2019s Achievement<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Strong Leadership:<\/strong> The commitment and leadership from the Indian government played a pivotal role in coordinating efforts against trachoma.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Collaboration:<\/strong> Effective partnerships among healthcare workers, ophthalmologists, and local communities facilitated the implementation of the SAFE strategy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Public Health Initiatives:<\/strong> Focused surveillance, diagnosis, and management of active trachoma cases, along with surgical services for trichiasis, contributed to the success.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Community Engagement:<\/strong> Promotion of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices, especially facial cleanliness, significantly reduced the disease&#8217;s transmission.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-6\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>India&#8217;s achievement in eliminating trachoma as a public health problem demonstrates the effectiveness of concerted public health efforts, strong leadership, and community involvement.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Read Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\">9<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span> Knowledge Nugget of the Day: Classical Languages What in News? As the Union Cabinet extends the &#8220;classical language&#8221; designation to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. Classical Languages Classical languages are seen as custodians of India\u2019s ancient cultural heritage. These languages preserve rich histories, literature, and traditions of their respective communities. Languages granted classical status&hellip; <a class=\"more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/current-affair-9-october-2024\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Current Affair &#8211; 9 October 2024<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":130,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[59],"tags":[],"acf":[],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2120"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2120"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2120\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2121,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2120\/revisions\/2121"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/130"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2120"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2120"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/upscmentorship.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2120"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}