India’s aviation industry is poised for significant growth, with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) planning to invest Rs. 98,000 crore between 2019 and 2024 in airport infrastructure to cater to increasing air traffic demands. This expansion will be regulated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), ensuring safety standards are maintained. MoCA is also deeply committed to sustainable aviation, promoting carbon neutrality and the use of green energy at airports.
Striving for Sustainable Aviation
As part of its commitment to combat climate change, MoCA is working alongside the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to achieve Sustainable Aviation. Their efforts align with the principles and provisions of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The National Civil Aviation Policy 2016 outlines plans to limit CO2 emissions, setting a concrete roadmap for achieving these environmental goals in Indian Aviation.
Influence of Centre’s Health Spending
The Centre’s mandated health spending through the National Health Mission (NHM) over the past 15 years has had a positive impact on India’s health system, as reported by Public Health for All journal. States have been encouraged to invest more in primary healthcare, resulting in an increase in their health budgets. Though the target of 8% of the total state budget allocated for health remains unachieved, NHM’s efforts have contributed to a lowering infant mortality rate and reduced spending disparities per capita across states.
Stepping Toward Better Healthcare Delivery
The study recommends that each state develop concrete plans for primary healthcare delivery and urges the Centre to establish a National Database of Health System Cost. This would enable realistic cost estimates for healthcare provision and help assess the cost-per-year of quality-adjusted life year (QALY), gained through primary healthcare interventions.
Export Ban on Non-Basmati White Rice
The Indian government, in response to a surge in domestic rice prices and subsequently its exports, imposed a ban on non-basmati white rice exports. This variety of rice had previously constituted 25% of the total rice exports from the country. Factors contributing to this surge include high international prices owing to geopolitical scenarios, El Nino influences, and extreme climatic conditions in other rice-producing countries. The ban serves to stabilise the domestic market and ensure sufficient availability of non-basmati white rice for the Indian consumer.
The Sundarbans: A Delicate Ecosystem at Risk
The Sundarbans, a delicate ecosystem comprising around 100 islands shared by humans and wildlife, faces potential threats due to barges transporting fly ash from Indian power plants to Bangladesh. Local reports suggest increased erosion near inhabited islands, triggering concerns over environmental costs. Balancing economic interests with conservation has become vital, necessitating a comprehensive impact assessment of barge traffic on the unique environment of the Sundarbans.