Parakram Diwas 2025: Honouring Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Legacy

• Parakram Diwas: Celebrated annually on January 23, Parakram Diwas commemorates the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a pivotal figure in India’s struggle for independence.
• 128th Birth Anniversary: In 2025, India observes Netaji’s 128th birth anniversary, reflecting on his enduring contributions to the nation’s freedom movement.
• Official Recognition: The Gover nment of India designated January 23 as Parakram Diwas in 2021 to honour Netaji’s relentless pursuit of India’s independence.

Significance of Parakram Diwas:

• Inspiration for Youth: Netaji’s life exemplifies courage and determination, serving as a motivational force for younger generations.
• National Unity: The day fosters a sense of unity and patriotism among citizens, reminding them of the collective effort required for nation-building.

Netaji’s Ideologies:

• Forward Bloc Formation: Dissatisfied with the Indian National Congress’s approach, Netaji formed the Forward Bloc in 1939 to consolidate the political left and continue the fight against colonial rule.
• Advocacy for Complete Independence: Unlike the dominion status sought by some leaders, Netaji was a staunch proponent of absolute sovereignty for India.

Additional Information:

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose:

• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was a prominent Indian nationalist leader whose defiance of British colonial rule made him a hero in India.  
• Born: January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, India.  
• Education: Educated at Presidency College, Calcutta, and later at Cambridge University.
• Early Political Career: Joined the Indian National Congress and became a prominent leader. He was elected president of the Congress twice (1938 and 1939).  
• Formation of the Forward Bloc: After disagreements with Mahatma Gandhi and the Congress leadership, he resigned as president in 1939 and formed the Forward Bloc, a political party within the Congress.  
• Escape from India: In 1941, he escaped from house arrest in India and traveled to Germany and later to Japan, seeking support for India’s independence movement during World War II.  
• Indian National Army (INA): In Southeast Asia, with Japanese assistance, he reorganized the Indian National Army (also known as the Azad Hind Fauj), which consisted of Indian prisoners of war and volunteers from the Indian diaspora.  
• Azad Hind Government: In 1943, he established the Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind) in Singapore, which was recognized by several Axis powers.  
• Military Campaigns: The INA fought alongside the Japanese in Burma (present-day Myanmar) against the British Indian Army.  
• Disappearance: Netaji disappeared on August 18, 1945, reportedly in a plane crash in Taiwan. The circumstances of his death remain a mystery and have been the subject of much speculation and controversy.
• Ideology: A strong nationalist and believed in achieving independence through any means necessary, including armed struggle. He advocated for a socialist and secular India.  

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India’s Maritime Sector: Aiming for $1 Trillion Investment by 2047

• Investment Target: India’s maritime sector is set to attract $1 trillion in investments by 2047, with an immediate requirement of ₹5 lakh crore by 2030 to fully realize its potential.
• Port Capacity Expansion: Plans are underway to increase port capacity sixfold, reaching 10,000 million metric tonnes annually by 2047.
• Green Hydrogen Initiatives: Establishment of green hydrogen production hubs at major ports, including Kandla, Tuticorin, and Paradip, to decarbonize the shipping sector.

Strategic Developments:

• Mega Ports: Development of new mega ports at Vadhavan in Maharashtra and Galathea Bay in Nicobar to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure.
• Vizhinjam International Seaport: Located in Kerala, this port is poised to become India’s first deep-water transshipment terminal, significantly boosting cargo handling capabilities.

Policy Initiatives:

• Sagarmala Programme: A comprehensive initiative aimed at port-led development, encompassing port modernization, connectivity enhancement, and coastal community development.
• Maritime India Vision 2030: A strategic roadmap outlining 150 initiatives to position India as a global maritime leader, focusing on infrastructure development and policy reforms.

Additional Information:

Sagarmala Programme:

• The Sagarmala Programme is a flagship initiative of the Indian government aimed at promoting port-led development in the country.
• Launched:  
• Ministry Responsible: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.  
• Objective: To reduce logistics costs, improve export competitiveness, and create new infrastructure and employment opportunities by harnessing India’s coastline and waterways.  
• Key Components:
  • Port Modernization & New Port Development: Modernizing existing ports and developing new deep-draft ports to handle larger vessels and increase capacity.  
  • Port Connectivity Enhancement: Improving connectivity between ports and the hinterland through road, rail, inland waterways, and coastal shipping.  
  • Port-led Industrialization: Developing coastal economic zones (CEZs) and industrial clusters near ports to promote manufacturing and trade.
  • Coastal Community Development: Developing coastal communities through skill development, fisheries development, and tourism promotion.  
• Vision: To reduce logistics costs for EXIM (Export-Import) and domestic trade with minimal infrastructure investment.  
• Key Initiatives under Sagarmala:
  • Development of new ports like Vadhavan Port (Maharashtra) and Colachel Port (Tamil Nadu).
  • Modernization of existing ports like Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT) and Kandla Port.
  • Development of coastal economic zones (CEZs) and industrial clusters.  
  • Promotion of coastal shipping and inland waterways transport.  
  • Development of logistics parks and multimodal logistics hubs.

Maritime India Vision 2030:

• The Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030) is a comprehensive 10-year blueprint for the Indian maritime sector, aiming to propel India to a position of global leadership in the maritime domain.
• Objective: To develop world-class maritime infrastructure, enhance operational efficiency, promote sustainable practices, and reduce logistics costs to boost India’s maritime economy.
• Key Focus Areas:
  • Port Infrastructure Development: Modernizing existing ports and developing new mega-ports and transhipment hubs to handle larger cargo volumes and ultra-large container ships.
  • Enhancing Logistics Efficiency: Streamlining processes, improving connectivity between ports and the hinterland through various modes of transport, and developing multimodal logistics hubs.
  • Improving Indian Shipbuilding Tonnage: Promoting domestic shipbuilding and ship repair industries to increase India’s share in the global market.
  • Increasing Coastal and Waterway Traffic: Promoting coastal shipping and inland waterways transport as cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to road and rail transport.
  • Fostering Technology and Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and promoting research and development in the maritime sector.
  • Policy Support and Governance: Improving governance mechanisms, amending existing regulations, and promoting public-private partnerships (PPPs).
  • Promoting Sustainability: Adopting environmentally friendly practices and ensuring compliance with global safety and security benchmarks.
• Key Initiatives:
  • Developing mega-ports and transhipment hubs.
  • Promoting coastal shipping and inland waterways transport.
  • Creating a network of waterways.
  • Fostering innovation in shipbuilding and ship repair.
  • Developing dedicated freight corridors.
  • Promoting digitalization and automation in port operations.

National Health Mission: Strengthening India’s Public Health Infrastructure

• Enhanced Workforce: The National Health Mission (NHM) has significantly bolstered India’s healthcare workforce, addressing critical shortages and improving service delivery across the nation.
• Public Health Achievements: Under the NHM, there has been a notable reduction in several public health concerns, contributing to improved health outcomes and increased life expectancy.

National Rural Health Mission (NRHM):

• Launched in 2005, the NRHM aimed to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to the rural population, especially vulnerable groups.
• Focused on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing human resources, and promoting community participation.

National Urban Health Mission (NUHM):

• Introduced to address the healthcare needs of the urban poor, particularly slum dwellers and other marginalized groups.
• Emphasizes the establishment of Urban Primary Health Centers and outreach services.

Additional Information:

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY):

• The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), also known as Ayushman Bharat Yojana, is a health insurance scheme launched by the Government of India. It aims to provide access to healthcare for economically weaker and poor families.
• Launched: September 23, 2018, in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
• Objective: To provide quality healthcare to poor and vulnerable families without financial hardship.
• Key Features:
  • Health Insurance Cover: Provides health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year.
  • Secondary and Tertiary Hospitalization: The scheme covers both secondary and tertiary hospitalization expenses, including medicines, diagnostics, surgeries, and other treatments.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Covers a wide range of medical treatments, surgeries, and procedures, ensuring comprehensive healthcare for beneficiaries.
  • Cashless Treatment: Cashless treatment is available at empanelled hospitals, meaning beneficiaries do not have to pay any money at the time of hospitalization.
  • Portability: Beneficiaries can avail treatment at any empanelled hospital across the country.
  • Eligibility: The scheme is primarily for poor and vulnerable families identified in the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011. In some states, state governments have also defined their own eligibility criteria.
• Beneficiaries: Approximately 500 million people, covering about 40% of the Indian population.
• Application Process: Families included in the SECC database are automatically eligible for the scheme. To check eligibility and obtain an Ayushman card, beneficiaries can visit the PM-JAY website or contact their nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).
• How to Claim:
  • Get admitted to any of the empanelled hospitals.
  • Provide your PM-JAY e-card or Aadhaar card for verification.
  • Receive the necessary medical treatment as per the prescribed guidelines.

INCOIS Honored with Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2025

• Award Recognition:
  • The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), based in Hyderabad, has been awarded the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar for 2025 in the Institutional Category.
  • This prestigious award acknowledges INCOIS’s exceptional contributions to disaster management in India.
• Award Significance:
  • Instituted by the Government of India, the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar is an annual award that honors individuals and organizations for their invaluable contributions and selfless service in the field of disaster management.
  • Announced every year on January 23rd, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, the award includes a cash prize of ₹51 lakh and a certificate for institutions.

INCOIS’s Role in Disaster Management:

• Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC): Established by INCOIS, the ITEWC provides tsunami alerts within 10 minutes, serving India and 28 Indian Ocean countries. Recognized by UNESCO as a top Tsunami Service Provider, it is supported by a network of seismic stations, tide gauges, and other ocean sensors.
• Cyclone and Storm Surge Forecasts: INCOIS offers high-wave, cyclone, and storm surge forecasts, aiding in the protection of coastal areas and maritime operations. Notably, during the 2013 Phailin and 2014 Hudhud cyclones, INCOIS’s advisories facilitated timely evacuations, reducing risks to coastal populations.
• Search and Rescue Aided Tool (SARAT): Developed to assist the Indian Coast Guard, Navy, and Coastal Security Police in locating individuals or objects lost at sea, enhancing search and rescue operations.
• SynOPS Visualization Platform: INCOIS has established the SynOPS platform, which integrates real-time data to strengthen response coordination during extreme events, thereby improving disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.

Additional Information:

Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar:

• Purpose: To recognize and honor the invaluable contributions and selfless service rendered by individuals and organizations in India in the field of disaster management.
• Award Details: The award carries a cash prize of ₹51 lakh and a certificate in the case of an institution, and ₹5 lakh and a certificate in the case of an individual.
• Selection Process: For the year 2025, nominations were solicited from July 1, 2024, onwards, receiving 297 nominations from institutions and individuals.

Mannan Tribe’s King to Attend Republic Day Parade

• Raman Rajamannan, the king of the Mannan tribe, will attend the Republic Day parade in Delhi.
• This marks the first time a tribal king will participate in the Republic Day parade.
• The Scheduled Tribes (SC) Development department invited him as a guest.
• The SC Development department will cover the travel expenses for Rajamannan and his wife, Binumol.
• During the visit, Rajamannan will meet the President and other prominent leaders.
• The Mannan community is mainly settled in the buffer zone area of the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary at Kozhimala.

Mannan Tribe Overview:

• Location: Predominantly residing in the Idukki district of Kerala, especially in areas like Kumily, Azhuha, Devikulam, and Idukki block panchayats.
• Cultural Practices: The Mannan community maintains unique customs and rituals, including a traditional system of governance led by an elected king.
• Language: Members of the Mannan tribe in Kerala primarily speak, read, and write in Malayalam.

Kovilmala:

• Significance: Known as the headquarters of the Mannan community, Kovilmala (also referred to as Kozhimala) is a tribal settlement near Kattappana in Idukki district.
• Governance:
  • The community practices a unique form of democratic monarchy, where the king, titled Raja Mannan, is elected by the people.
  • The current king, Raman Rajamannan, an economics graduate from Maharaja’s College in Ernakulam, ascended the throne following the demise of his uncle, Ariyan Raja Mannan.

Indian Railways’ Preparations for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

• Indian Railways has announced the operation of over 150 special trains to cater to devotees on Mauni Amavasya (January 29, 2025).
• The special trains will run direction-wise from all nine stations in Prayagraj.
• This initiative aims to ensure seamless travel for millions attending the grand event at the Maha Kumbh.
• The Prayagraj Railway Division has taken several measures, including organized shelter facilities for passengers and colour-coded ticketing to enhance the travel experience.
• Amit Malviya, senior Public Relations Officer of the Prayagraj Railway Division, stated that most of the special trains will run from Prayagraj Junction.
• The scale of arrangements for operating more than 150 special trains on a single day is expected to set a record, surpassing the 85 trains managed during Mauni Amavasya at Kumbh 2019.

Infrastructure Enhancements:

To ensure seamless travel for pilgrims, the Indian Railways is implementing significant infrastructure upgrades, including the construction of elevated tracks and the enhancement of station facilities.

Regional Connectivity:

Special train services are being introduced from various regions, such as Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka, to Prayagraj, facilitating the movement of pilgrims from distant locations.

Additional Information:

Mauni Amavasya:

• Mauni Amavasya is a significant Hindu festival observed on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Magha (generally falling in January/February). It holds deep spiritual significance and is particularly important for those who follow the Hindu scriptures.
• Timing: Occurs on the Amavasya (new moon) day in the Hindu month of Magha.  
• Significance:
  • Mauna (Silence): The word “Mauni” is derived from “Mauna,” which means silence. Observing silence (Mauna Vrat) is considered a key practice on this day. It is believed that maintaining silence helps in introspection, self-reflection, and connecting with one’s inner self.  
  • Holy Bath (Snan): Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers, especially the Ganges at the Triveni Sangam (confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers) in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), is considered highly auspicious on this day. It is believed to cleanse one of sins and bring spiritual merit.  
  • Spiritual Significance: Mauni Amavasya is considered a powerful time for spiritual practices, meditation, and prayers. It is believed that the energy on this day is conducive to spiritual growth and transformation.  
• Practices:
  • Mauna Vrat (Observing Silence): Many devotees observe complete silence throughout the day.  
  • Holy Bath (Snan): Taking a dip in holy rivers, especially at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.  
  • Donations and Charity: Giving donations to the needy and performing charitable acts.  
  • Recitation of Mantras and Prayers: Engaging in spiritual practices, such as reciting mantras and offering prayers.  
• Connection to Kumbh Mela: When Mauni Amavasya falls during the Kumbh Mela (a massive pilgrimage that takes place every 12 years at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik), it becomes even more significant. Millions of devotees gather to take a holy dip on this auspicious day.  

Gene Editing: A Promising Avenue for Treating Genetic Eye Conditions

• Researchers from the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology, Basel (Switzerland) have developed a gene editing technique that could potentially treat Stargardt disease, a rare genetic eye disease.
• The technique involves using an adenine base editor to make precise changes in DNA and deliver it into the retina using an adeno-associated viral vector (AAV).
• The study, titled “High-efficiency base editing in the retina in primates and human tissues,” was published in the journal Nature Medicine.
• The gene therapy vectors achieved high levels of gene correction in mutation-carrying mice and female nonhuman primates.
• No off-target editing was detected, showing promise for efficient gene editing in other ocular diseases.

Gene Therapy Approaches:

• Intravitreal Gene Therapy: This method involves delivering therapeutic genes directly into the vitreous humor of the eye using viral vectors like adeno-associated viruses (AAV). It targets retinal cells to address genetic deficiencies, potentially providing long-term or permanent treatment for conditions such as wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and inherited retinal dystrophies.
• Subretinal Gene Therapy: In this approach, the therapeutic gene is delivered beneath the retina. For instance, Voretigene neparvovec (Luxturna) has been approved for treating Leber’s congenital amaurosis by restoring the RPE65 gene function.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Delivery Efficiency: Ensuring that gene editing tools reach and effectively modify target cells within the retina remains a significant challenge.
• Safety Concerns: Potential risks include unintended genetic modifications and immune responses to viral vectors.
• Long-term Outcomes: Ongoing research is necessary to understand the durability and longevity of gene editing treatments in ocular applications.

Additional Information:

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP):

• Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited eye diseases that cause progressive degeneration of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This degeneration leads to a gradual decline in vision.
• Nature: Inherited (genetic) eye disease.  
• Affects: Primarily the photoreceptor cells in the retina, specifically the rods (responsible for night vision and peripheral vision) and later the cones (responsible for central vision and color vision).  
• Symptoms:
  • Night blindness (Nyctalopia): Difficulty seeing in low light or at night. This is often the first symptom.  
  • Loss of peripheral vision (Tunnel vision): A gradual narrowing of the field of vision, making it seem like looking through a tunnel.  
  • Difficulty with color vision: In later stages, cones are affected, leading to problems with color perception.  
  • Decreased central vision: As the disease progresses, central vision can also be affected, leading to difficulty with tasks like reading and recognizing faces.  
• Progression: RP is a progressive disease, meaning that vision loss worsens over time. The rate of progression varies among individuals and depends on the specific genetic mutation causing the condition.  

Leber’s Congenital Amaurosis (LCA):

• Leber’s Congenital Amaurosis (LCA) is a group of inherited retinal diseases that cause severe vision loss beginning in infancy or early childhood. It’s one of the most common causes of congenital blindness.
• Nature: Inherited (genetic) retinal disease.  
• Onset: Typically present at birth or develops within the first few months of life.  
• Affects: The photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) in the retina.
• Symptoms:
  • Severe vision loss: Significant reduction in vision from birth or early infancy.  
  • Nystagmus: Involuntary rapid eye movements.  
  • Photophobia: Sensitivity to light.  
  • Poor or absent pupillary reflexes: The pupils do not constrict properly in response to light.  
  • Deep-set eyes: In some cases.  
• Causes: Caused by mutations in various genes involved in the development and function of photoreceptor cells.
• These mutations are inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry a mutated gene for their child to be affected.  
• Types: Different types of LCA are classified based on the specific gene mutation causing the condition. Some of the most common genes associated with LCA include RPE65, CEP290, AIPL1, GUCY2D, and LCA5.  

Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors (AAVs):

• Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors (AAVs) are valuable tools in gene therapy. They are derived from adeno-associated viruses, which are small, non-enveloped viruses that infect humans but don’t typically cause illness.
• Nature: Genetically engineered viruses used as vectors (delivery vehicles) to introduce genetic material into cells.  
• Key Features:
  • Low Immunogenicity: Generally, do not cause a strong immune response, making them relatively safe for gene therapy.  
  • Broad Tropism: Can infect a wide range of cell types, although specific AAV serotypes (variants) can be engineered to target specific tissues or organs.  
  • Non-Pathogenic: Do not cause disease in humans.  
  • Long-term Gene Expression: Can provide long-lasting expression of the delivered gene, especially in non-dividing cells.  
  • Small Genome: Have a small genome, which limits the size of the genetic material that can be packaged inside.  
• Mechanism of Action:
  • AAVs are engineered to carry a therapeutic gene into target cells.  
  • Once inside the cell, the AAV delivers the gene to the nucleus, where it can be expressed.  
  • The delivered gene does not typically integrate into the host cell’s chromosomes, but instead forms circular DNA molecules called episomes, which remain in the nucleus.  
• Applications in Gene Therapy: AAVs are used in gene therapy to treat a variety of inherited diseases, including:
  • Leber’s Congenital Amaurosis (LCA): An inherited form of blindness.  
  • Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA): A genetic disorder that affects motor neurons.  
  • Hemophilia: A bleeding disorder.  
  • Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A genetic muscle-wasting disease.

Mount Ibu’s Increased Volcanic Activity in January 2025

• Significant Eruptions:
  • Indonesia’s Mount Ibu, located on Halmahera Island in North Maluku province, has exhibited heightened volcanic activity, recording 1,079 eruptions since January 1, 2025.
  • These eruptions have produced ash columns rising between 3 to 4 kilometers above the summit.
• Major Eruption Event: On January 15, 2025, Mount Ibu erupted, emitting an ash cloud that ascended approximately 4 kilometers into the atmosphere.

Alert Status and Evacuations:

• In response to the increased activity, Indonesian authorities elevated the volcano’s alert status to the highest level.
• Approximately 3,000 residents from six nearby villages were evacuated to ensure their safety.

Geological Monitoring:

• The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) continues to monitor Mount Ibu’s activity, providing regular updates on eruption frequency and ash plume heights.

Additional Information:

Mount Ibu:

• Mount Ibu is an active stratovolcano located on the northwest coast of Halmahera Island in Indonesia.
• Location: Halmahera Island, North Maluku province, Indonesia. This places it within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a highly volcanically active region.  
• Type: Stratovolcano (also known as a composite volcano), characterized by steep slopes and a conical shape, built up by many layers of hardened lava, tephra, pumice, and ash.  
• Summit: The summit is truncated (flattened) and contains nested craters. The inner crater is about 1 km wide and 400 m deep, while the outer crater is 1.2 km wide.  
• Features: It has a large parasitic cone on its northeast side and a smaller one on the southwest side. The latter has produced lava flows down the western flank. There are also maars (broad, low-relief volcanic craters caused by explosive eruptions) on the western and northern sides.  
• Elevation: Approximately 1,325 meters (4,347 feet) above sea level.

EU Proposes Ban on ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Consumer Products

• EU’s Proposal:
  • The European Commission plans to propose a ban on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in consumer products.
  • This initiative aims to eliminate non-essential uses of PFAS, with exceptions for critical industrial applications.
• Health Risks:
  • PFAS are synthetic chemicals that do not degrade in the environment, leading to widespread contamination.
  • Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health issues, including liver damage and testicular cancer.
  • In the United States, PFAS-related lawsuits have resulted in settlements exceeding $11 billion.
• Implementation Timeline: The proposed ban is not expected to take effect before 2026, as the European Commission is in the process of determining essential industrial uses that may be exempt from the ban.

Global Context:

• United Kingdom:
  • Scientists have criticized the UK government for not aligning with the EU’s approach to banning non-essential uses of PFAS.
  • The UK plans to regulate PFAS in smaller groups rather than as a single class, a decision influenced by industry lobbying.
  • Experts advocate for a hazard-based approach, similar to the EU’s, to effectively address the risks posed by these chemicals.
• United States:
  • PFAS contamination has been identified in drinking water, soil, and human tissues across the U.S.
  • The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set health advisories for certain PFAS compounds, but comprehensive federal regulations are still under development.

Alternative Solutions:

• In response to concerns about PFAS in consumer products, alternatives are being explored.
• For instance, ceramic-coated pans are considered safer substitutes for non-stick cookware traditionally made with PFAS-containing coatings.

Additional Information:

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS):

• Definition: PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals used since the 1950s in various industries and consumer products for their water- and grease-resistant properties.
• Environmental Persistence: Due to their strong chemical bonds, PFAS do not break down in the environment, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”
• Health Impacts: Studies have linked PFAS exposure to health issues such as cancer, liver damage, and developmental effects in children.

REACH Regulation:

• REACH is a European Union regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. It aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals while enhancing the competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry.
• Full Name: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH).  
• Regulation Number: (EC) No 1907/2006.  
• Effective Date: Entered into force on 1 June 2007.  
• Objective: To ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals.  
• Key Principles:
  • No Data, No Market: Companies are responsible for providing information on the properties of the substances they manufacture or import in quantities of one tonne or more per year.  
  • Reverse Burden of Proof: Shifts the responsibility for demonstrating the safe use of chemicals from public authorities to industry.
• Key Processes:
  • Registration: Manufacturers and importers of chemical substances must register them with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This involves submitting a dossier containing information on the substance’s properties, uses, and safe handling.  
  • Evaluation: ECHA evaluates the information submitted in registration dossiers to assess the risks posed by substances.  
  • Authorisation: Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs), such as those that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction (CMR), or persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT), require authorisation for specific uses.  
  • Restriction: Restrictions can be placed on the manufacture, placing on the market, or use of certain dangerous substances, preparations, or articles.  
• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA): The central body responsible for implementing REACH.