Polo in India

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Technology Information, Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC)
The Technology Information, Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC) is an autonomous organisation under the Government of India that functions as a national think tank on technology. Established to anticipate, evaluate, and guide technological developments, TIFAC supports evidence-based decision-making for scientific advancement, industrial growth, and national policy formulation.

Background and Establishment

TIFAC was founded in 1988 under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The idea originated from India’s Technology Policy Statement of 1983, which emphasised the need for a systematic approach to understanding and managing emerging technologies. The council was envisioned as a dedicated body that could forecast technological trends, assess their implications, and prepare strategic roadmaps for national development.
Since its creation, TIFAC has evolved into a major platform that connects academia, industry, research organisations, and government departments. It plays a central role in formulating long-term technology visions and strengthening India’s indigenous innovation capabilities.

Objectives and Mandate

TIFAC’s primary objectives focus on strengthening India’s technological foresight and preparedness. Its mandate includes:

• Conducting technology forecasting and assessment studies to identify future trends and opportunities.
• Preparing national technology vision documents and roadmaps for key sectors.
• Assessing techno-economic feasibility of emerging technologies and suggesting interventions to bridge gaps.
• Facilitating linkages between research, industry, and policy for faster technology adoption.
• Supporting innovation, commercialisation, and skill development through collaborative programmes.

Major Programmes and Initiatives

Technology Vision and Foresight

TIFAC is best known for developing Technology Vision documents that outline the strategic direction for India’s technological growth:

• Technology Vision 2020, prepared under the leadership of Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, laid the foundation for India’s long-term technology strategy, identifying priority areas in energy, agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure.
• Technology Vision 2035 expanded this framework, introducing twelve thematic areas including environment, materials, manufacturing, education, and information technology.

These vision documents analyse global technology trajectories and recommend policy actions for India to remain competitive and self-reliant.

Technology Assessment and Studies

TIFAC regularly undertakes technology assessment and techno-economic studies to evaluate both existing and emerging technologies. These studies include:

• Examination of the social, environmental, and economic impacts of technologies.
• Cost-benefit and feasibility analysis to support policy and investment decisions.
• Identification of technology gaps and recommendations for strengthening domestic capabilities.
• Mapping of industrial sectors and market potential for specific technologies.

Such assessments are vital for aligning national R&D priorities with socio-economic needs.

Innovation Support and MSME Programmes

TIFAC also focuses on promoting innovation and technology upgradation, particularly within Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).Key initiatives include:

• The TIFAC–SIDBI Technology Innovation Programme, which provides technical and financial support for R&D-based innovation and commercialisation in MSMEs.
• Technology upgradation and cluster development programmes, aimed at fostering collaboration between academia and small industries.
• Internship schemes connecting young researchers and students with industrial projects to enhance applied innovation.
• Demonstration projects in strategic areas such as seaweed cultivation and the SAKSHAM initiative, which matches skilled labourers to MSME opportunities through digital platforms.

Knowledge Networks and Collaboration

TIFAC operates a Network of Experts in Science and Technology (NEST), drawing upon specialists from diverse domains across India. This network contributes to foresight exercises, assessments, and advisory functions. The council also collaborates with ministries, research institutions, universities, and international organisations to promote multidisciplinary approaches in technology policy planning.

Key Achievements and Contributions

Over the decades, TIFAC has made significant contributions to India’s technology landscape:

• Development of long-term technology vision documents that have influenced national planning and policy.
• Strengthening foresight-based approaches in areas such as energy, environment, healthcare, and ICT.
• Enabling industry–academia partnerships and promoting indigenous technology innovation.
• Supporting MSMEs in product development, modernisation, and market competitiveness.
• Launching public-oriented initiatives such as SAKSHAM and the Seaweed Mission, aligning technological progress with livelihood enhancement and environmental sustainability.

TIFAC’s analytical outputs have been instrumental in shaping science and technology strategies at both central and state levels.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite its achievements, TIFAC faces several challenges:

• Implementation gap: Translating foresight studies into practical, scalable technology deployment remains a complex process.
• Resource limitations: Ensuring adequate funding and maintaining a skilled workforce are continuous challenges.
• Coordination barriers: Effective collaboration across ministries and sectors can be hindered by overlapping mandates and differing priorities.
• Rapid technological change: The fast pace of innovation in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing requires more agile forecasting methods.
• Inclusivity and outreach: Ensuring that technology development benefits rural, marginalised, and underserved communities remains a priority area.

Future Outlook

As India advances towards a knowledge-driven economy, TIFAC’s role is becoming increasingly significant. The council is expected to:

• Adopt real-time foresight and predictive analytics using artificial intelligence and big data.
• Focus on mission-oriented research areas like clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and digital transformation.
• Strengthen mechanisms for technology transfer, commercialisation, and diffusion across industries.
• Foster international collaboration to benchmark India’s technology foresight against global best practices.
• Encourage inclusive innovation to ensure equitable distribution of technological benefits across regions.

By integrating long-term vision with practical implementation, TIFAC continues to serve as a strategic institution guiding India’s scientific and technological advancement. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring that technology development aligns with the nation’s aspirations for sustainable growth, self-reliance, and societal progress.

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Kwashiorkor and Marasmus

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Kwashiorkor and Marasmus
Kwashiorkor and marasmus are two major forms of protein–energy malnutrition (PEM), primarily affecting children in developing regions where poverty, food scarcity, and inadequate nutrition prevail. Both conditions result from insufficient dietary intake, but they differ in the balance of protein and energy deficiency, clinical presentation, and underlying pathophysiology. Understanding these conditions is essential for public health planning, paediatric care, and nutritional rehabilitation.

Overview of Protein–Energy Malnutrition

Protein–energy malnutrition encompasses a spectrum of disorders caused by inadequate consumption of protein, energy, or both. It is most prevalent among children under five years of age, particularly in areas with limited access to balanced diets and healthcare. PEM can present in three primary forms: kwashiorkor, marasmus, and marasmic-kwashiorkor, a mixed condition showing overlapping features of both.

Kwashiorkor: Definition and Characteristics

Kwashiorkor is primarily a protein-deficiency disorder, occurring when a child’s diet contains adequate calories from carbohydrates but lacks sufficient protein. The term originated from the Ga language of Ghana, meaning “the sickness the older child gets when the next baby is born,” referring to the displacement of breastfeeding by a new sibling.
Clinical features of kwashiorkor include:

• Oedema: Generalised swelling, especially in the legs, feet, and face, due to reduced plasma protein levels (hypoalbuminaemia) that cause fluid leakage from blood vessels.
• Enlarged fatty liver: Impaired lipid metabolism results in fatty infiltration of the liver.
• Dermatological changes: Skin may become flaky and hyperpigmented, often described as a “flaky paint” appearance.
• Hair changes: Hair becomes sparse, dry, and may lose pigmentation, showing alternating dark and light bands (“flag sign”).
• Growth retardation: Despite adequate calorie intake, lack of protein impairs growth and tissue repair.
• Apathy and irritability: Due to energy imbalance and biochemical disturbances affecting brain function.
• Immune suppression: Increased susceptibility to infections due to compromised protein-dependent immune mechanisms.

Pathophysiology: The deficiency of dietary protein leads to decreased synthesis of plasma proteins, enzymes, and structural proteins. This disrupts osmotic balance, fat metabolism, and immune responses, manifesting in oedema and fatty liver.

Marasmus: Definition and Characteristics

Marasmus is a condition resulting from severe deficiency of both protein and calories, leading to extreme wasting of body tissues. It is often seen in infants and young children deprived of breast milk or fed on dilute, low-calorie substitutes.
Clinical features of marasmus include:

• Severe emaciation: The child appears extremely thin with prominent bones and minimal subcutaneous fat.
• Muscle wasting: Marked reduction in muscle mass due to breakdown of body proteins for energy.
• Growth failure: Stunted physical and mental development.
• Absence of oedema: Unlike kwashiorkor, water retention is not typical because plasma proteins, though low, remain relatively balanced with energy needs.
• Dry, wrinkled skin: Due to loss of elasticity and fat under the skin.
• Alert but irritable behaviour: The child may appear unusually alert despite extreme weakness.
• Anaemia and hypoglycaemia: Caused by overall nutrient deficiency and inadequate energy metabolism.

Pathophysiology: In marasmus, the body’s adaptation to prolonged energy deficiency results in catabolism of fat and muscle to meet metabolic demands. Energy expenditure decreases, and growth halts as a survival mechanism.

Comparison between Kwashiorkor and Marasmus

Causes and Risk Factors

Both conditions are influenced by a range of social, economic, and biological factors, including:

• Poverty and food insecurity, limiting access to protein-rich diets.
• Early weaning or delayed introduction of complementary feeding.
• Inadequate maternal nutrition, affecting breast milk quality.
• Frequent infections, such as diarrhoea or measles, which increase nutrient losses and metabolic demands.
• Poor sanitation and unsafe drinking water, leading to recurrent illness.
• Natural disasters or displacement, disrupting food supply chains.

Diagnosis and Clinical Evaluation

Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, supported by anthropometric measurements such as:

• Weight-for-age (underweight)
• Height-for-age (stunting)
• Weight-for-height (wasting)

Laboratory tests may reveal hypoalbuminaemia, anaemia, electrolyte imbalances, and impaired liver function in kwashiorkor. Marasmus often shows low blood glucose and reduced fat stores without oedema.

Management and Treatment

Treatment aims to correct nutritional deficiencies gradually, prevent complications, and restore normal growth and metabolism. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a phased approach:

1. Stabilisation phase:
   • Manage dehydration, hypoglycaemia, and infections.
   • Administer low-protein, low-lactose therapeutic milk (F-75 formula).
2. Rehabilitation phase:
   • Introduce high-protein, energy-dense diet (F-100 formula).
   • Provide vitamin and mineral supplementation, especially potassium, magnesium, and zinc.
3. Follow-up phase:
   • Ensure continued nutritional rehabilitation and counselling for caregivers.
   • Promote exclusive breastfeeding and balanced complementary feeding.

In severe cases, hospitalisation and careful monitoring of electrolyte and fluid balance are essential to prevent refeeding syndrome and cardiac complications.

Prevention and Public Health Measures

Preventing kwashiorkor and marasmus requires a combination of nutritional education, community health initiatives, and socio-economic development. Key preventive strategies include:

• Promotion of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.
• Timely introduction of complementary foods rich in protein and calories.
• Maternal nutrition programmes to improve prenatal and postnatal health.
• Food fortification and supplementation schemes for vulnerable populations.
• Immunisation and sanitation improvements to reduce infection burden.
• Poverty alleviation and food security policies ensuring availability of diverse foods.

Significance

Kwashiorkor and marasmus remain major contributors to child morbidity and mortality in low-income countries. Their presence reflects deeper socio-economic and health inequities. Effective intervention requires a multi-sectoral approach that integrates nutrition, health care, education, and sustainable development. Addressing these disorders not only saves lives but also enhances cognitive and physical potential, contributing to long-term national development.

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Polo in India

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Polo in India
Polo in India is a sport of ancient origin and royal heritage, historically associated with nobility, cavalry traditions, and the princely states. The game, often referred to as the “Sport of Kings,” has been played in the Indian subcontinent for centuries, long before its modern codification by the British. India not only preserved this equestrian tradition but also played a pivotal role in popularising polo internationally, influencing its modern rules and culture.

Historical Background

The origins of polo can be traced to ancient Manipur, in north-eastern India, where it was known as Sagol Kangjei—a game played on horseback between two teams using bamboo sticks and a wooden ball. Historical accounts suggest that it dates back more than 2,000 years, and it was considered both a martial exercise and a ceremonial sport. Polo was deeply woven into Manipuri culture, often played during religious festivals such as Lai Haraoba.
During the medieval period, polo gained royal patronage across India. The Turko-Afghan and Mughal rulers, who admired equestrian skills, encouraged similar sports, such as Chaugan, which resembled polo in structure and spirit. The Mughal emperors, particularly Babur and Akbar, were enthusiastic players who helped spread the game across northern India. Paintings and manuscripts from the Mughal era depict polo matches as part of courtly entertainment and military training.

British Adaptation and Modern Polo

The British officers stationed in Manipur and Assam in the early nineteenth century were introduced to Sagol Kangjei and became fascinated by its speed and elegance. They adapted and formalised the game, creating the modern version of polo. The first organised polo club, the Silchar Polo Club, was established in 1859 in Assam, making it the world’s oldest existing polo club.
Following its introduction to the British military, polo spread rapidly across India and beyond. The Calcutta Polo Club, founded in 1862, played a crucial role in standardising rules and promoting the sport internationally. From India, polo reached England in the 1860s, and soon became a favourite pastime among European aristocracy.

Polo under Indian Royal Patronage

During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Indian princely states such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Patiala, Bikaner, and Hyderabad became prominent centres of polo. The Maharajas of these states maintained elite polo teams and established strong rivalries that elevated the sport’s prestige.

• The Jaipur Polo Team, led by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, became internationally famous, winning tournaments in England and the United States during the 1930s.
• The Jodhpur Lancers and Patiala teams were equally formidable, showcasing exceptional horsemanship and breeding superior polo ponies.
• Polo also flourished in Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, where both royal and military regiments participated in tournaments.

This royal patronage not only sustained polo as a symbol of aristocratic culture but also contributed to the development of Indian polo ponies, renowned for their agility, stamina, and speed.

Post-Independence Developments

After India’s independence in 1947, polo experienced a period of decline due to the disbanding of cavalry units and the reduction in royal patronage. However, it soon witnessed a revival through the efforts of the Indian Army, which recognised its value for training and discipline.
In 1957, the Indian Polo Association (IPA) was re-established to coordinate polo activities and restore its prominence. The IPA worked closely with the Indian Army, princely families, and civilian players to promote tournaments and ensure the sport’s continuity. The revival was further strengthened by the support of the President of India, who became the patron of the association.

Major Polo Centres and Tournaments

Today, India hosts several prestigious polo tournaments, attracting both domestic and international players. Some of the leading centres and events include:

• Delhi – The Jaipur Polo Ground in New Delhi is one of India’s premier venues, hosting the President’s Cup, Indian Open Polo Championship, and Army Cup.
• Jaipur – The Rambagh Polo Ground remains a hub for traditional royal polo and international matches.
• Jodhpur – The Umaid Bhawan Palace grounds continue to host national tournaments, upholding the legacy of the Jodhpur Lancers.
• Manipur – The Imphal Polo Ground, considered the oldest polo field in the world, remains a symbolic and cultural centre of the sport.
• Mumbai and Kolkata – Both cities conduct regular tournaments under the aegis of local polo clubs.

Polo Ponies and Breeding in India

The quality of polo ponies has always been central to the game’s excellence. The Manipuri pony, native to north-eastern India, is among the oldest and most admired breeds for polo due to its speed, endurance, and temperament. During the British and princely eras, Thoroughbred–Manipuri crossbreeds were developed to enhance strength and agility.
Post-independence, the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) of the Indian Army took charge of breeding and maintaining high-quality polo ponies. Today, Indian breeders continue to improve bloodlines, often importing stock from Argentina and the United Kingdom to meet global standards.

International Participation and Recognition

India has consistently contributed to international polo through both players and teams. Indian players regularly participate in global tournaments in countries such as Argentina, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The Indian Polo Team has achieved notable victories, including titles at the World Cup Polo Championships and other international events.
India also frequently hosts foreign teams, strengthening diplomatic and sporting ties through equestrian exchanges. The sport continues to draw tourists and enthusiasts to destinations like Jaipur, Delhi, and Manipur, blending heritage with modern sporting excellence.