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  • [13th January 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: India’s data protection rules need some fine-tuning

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Impact of digital technology as a reliable source of input for rational decision making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with suitable examples.  (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Impact of digital technology’ (2021) and ‘N. Srikrishna Committee Report’ (2018).

    According to the AuthBridge Report in 2024, the average cost of a data breach in India reached ₹19.5 crore ($2.35 million), reflecting a 9% increase from the previous year and a 39% rise since 2020.

    Today’s Editorial focuses on the present Data Protection law passed by the legislators. While the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025 represent a significant step forward, they require adjustments to ensure effective implementation and protection of individual rights without stifling innovation. This content can be used for – data privacy issues in India, e-governance and cross border mechanism in your Mains Answer Writing.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    On January 3, 2025, the MeitY released the much-anticipated Draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules — a key moment in India’s journey to regulate digital personal data. 

    • This step follows the passage of the DPDP Act, 2023, bringing India closer to operationalising its framework for safeguarding personal data.
    Key highlights for Draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025 are as follows:

    • Citizen-Centric Framework: The rules prioritize citizens’ rights, allowing them to demand data erasure, appoint digital nominees, and manage their data through user-friendly mechanisms provided by data fiduciaries (entities that process personal data).
    • Consent Mechanisms: Data fiduciaries must obtain informed consent from individuals before processing their data, providing clear information about data usage and allowing easy withdrawal of consent.
    • Data Erasure and Retention: Data can be retained for up to 3 years from the last interaction with the user, with a requirement for prior notification before data erasure.
    • Digital-First Approach: The rules advocate for a “digital by design” framework, establishing a Data Protection Board of India (DPBI) that will handle grievances and ensure compliance through online mechanisms.
    • Graded Responsibilities: Different obligations are set for various entities based on their size and impact, easing compliance burdens for startups and small businesses while imposing stricter requirements on larger platforms.
    • Public Feedback: The Ministry has invited public comments on the draft rules until February 18, 2025, aiming for an inclusive approach to law-making.

    About the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 and the key features include:

    • Consent Requirement: Organizations must obtain explicit consent from individuals before processing their personal data, with limited exceptions for specific legitimate uses.
    • Data Fiduciaries’ Obligations: Entities handling personal data (data fiduciaries) are mandated to ensure data accuracy, security, and deletion after the purpose is fulfilled. They must also report data breaches to the Data Protection Board (DPB) within 72 hours.
    • Rights of Individuals: Individuals have rights to access, correct, and erase their data, as well as to seek grievance redressal.
    • Data Protection Board: The DPB will oversee compliance and address grievances regarding data processing practices.
    • Border Data Transfer: The Act allows for the transfer of personal data outside India, subject to government restrictions.

    The DPDP Act aims to balance individual privacy rights with the need for data processing in a digital economy, marking a significant step in India’s approach to data protection.

    How Pragmatic is the present Data Protection law?

    • Simplicity Over Complexity: India’s rules focus on clear and straightforward consent processes, reducing “consent fatigue” that users experience in Europe due to excessive details.
    • Outcome-Based Framework: Instead of strict regulations on how to present information, the DPDP Rules allow businesses to decide how to inform users about their rights, promoting innovation and respecting business autonomy.
    • Children’s Data Protection: The rules provide stricter protections for children’s personal data but also recognize the value of monitoring in educational contexts. Certain sectors, like educational institutions and healthcare, are exempt from needing parental consent for tracking, as long as they follow specific guidelines.
    Did you know?

    • While the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) was initially praised, it now faces criticism for favoring large corporations and not effectively building public trust. 
    • In contrast, India is adopting a more pragmatic and balanced method with this present Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA), aiming to protect individual privacy without imposing overly strict regulations that could hinder smaller businesses. 
    • This offers a refreshing alternative to Europe’s more interventionist policies.

    What are the limitations and flaws in the present law?

    • Complexity in Cross-Border Data Flow: The draft rules introduce complications regarding cross-border data transfers, imposing localization mandates on Significant Data Fiduciaries (SDFs) that may exceed the original intent of the legislation.
    • Regulatory Arbitrage Risk: Differentiating between SDFs and smaller entities creates potential for smaller businesses to exploit relaxed rules, leading to unfair advantages and possible deterrents to investment in India.
    • Law Enforcement Challenges: The push for data localization stems from law enforcement’s need for access to cross-border data, but a more targeted approach could be more effective than a blanket regulation.
      • The rules lack clarity on how businesses can verify the legitimacy of user information requests and do not address excessive or unfounded requests for data.
    • Sensitive Business Data Concerns: Uncertainty exists regarding government access to sensitive business data, raising concerns about the protection of trade secrets and competitive information.
      • These issues highlight the need for improved procedural safeguards to ensure that businesses can protect sensitive information while complying with regulations.

    What should be the way Forward?

    • Importance of Compliance: Businesses should view compliance with data protection laws as essential for protecting their reputation and ensuring operational continuity, rather than just a regulatory obligation.
    • Need for Evolving Privacy Frameworks: India must move beyond traditional notice-and-consent mechanisms to better protect citizens’ privacy, especially in environments where consent is difficult to obtain.
      • With advancements in IoT, 5G, and AI leading to increased data collection, new privacy frameworks should focus on broader protections rather than solely relying on consent.
    • Targeted Data Localization: The draft rules should consider a more targeted approach to data localization that addresses law enforcement needs without imposing excessive burdens on businesses.

  • Should voter IDs be linked with Aadhaar?

    Why in the News?

    Two political parties have accused each other of tampering the voter lists before the Delhi Assembly elections. This has brought back the discussion about linking voter IDs (EPIC) with Aadhaar numbers.

    Why was the National Electoral Rolls Purification and Authentication Program?

    The National Electoral Rolls Purification and Authentication Program (NERPAP) was launched by the Election Commission of India on March 3, 2015, with the primary goal of creating an error-free and authenticated electoral roll.

    • Linking EPIC with Aadhaar: The program sought to link the Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC) data with the Aadhaar database to authenticate voter identities and eliminate duplicate entries in the electoral rolls.
    • Error Correction: NERPAP aimed to facilitate the correction of errors in voter data and improve the overall quality of images on electoral documents.
    • Voluntary Disclosure of Multiple Entries: Voters were encouraged to voluntarily disclose any multiple registrations, allowing for timely corrections and deletions of unnecessary entries from the electoral rolls.
    • Enhanced Communication: The initiative also aimed to collect mobile numbers and email addresses from voters, enabling the Election Commission to provide important updates regarding elections, such as poll dates and revision schedules.
    • Public Participation: To ensure maximum engagement, special camps and facilitation centers were organized nationwide to assist voters in linking their Aadhaar with EPIC and addressing any concerns regarding their registrations.

    What did the Supreme Court mandate in the Puttaswamy case in 2018?

    • In the Puttaswamy case, the Supreme Court recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right under the Constitution. It ruled that while Aadhaar could be used for various purposes, including voter registration, individuals cannot be denied their right to vote for failing to provide their Aadhaar number.
    • This ruling emphasized that any legal framework must respect individual privacy rights and ensure that no citizen is disenfranchised due to administrative requirements.

    What are the pros and cons?

    Pros:

    • Elimination of Duplicate Entries: Linking Aadhaar with EPIC can help remove multiple registrations for individuals who may have registered in different locations due to migration.
    • Real-time Authentication: The unique identity provided by Aadhaar enables online verification, enhancing the accuracy of voter rolls.
    • Updated Voter Database: The initiative aims to maintain an updated and accurate record of voters, which is crucial for free and fair elections.

    Cons:

    • Database Errors: Errors within the Aadhaar database could lead to wrongful rejection or deletion of legitimate voter entries.
    • Proof of Citizenship Concerns: Aadhaar serves as proof of residence but not citizenship, potentially failing to address non-citizen registrations on electoral rolls.
    • Privacy Risks: While linkage may not directly violate privacy rights, there are concerns about misuse as electoral rolls are accessible to political parties.

    What can be the way forward?

    • Transparent and Voluntary Process: Modify electoral forms to clearly indicate that providing Aadhaar is voluntary, ensuring no voter is denied registration for not furnishing their Aadhaar number.
    • Strengthen Data Accuracy and Privacy Safeguards: Establish mechanisms to verify Aadhaar data accuracy and implement robust data protection measures to prevent misuse of linked electoral rolls.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy.(UPSC IAS/2017)

  • National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS) is launched

    Why in the News?

    The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), has introduced the National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS), a landmark initiative aimed at ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable navigation along India’s inland waterways.

    About National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS)

    • The NRT&NS aims to modernize and enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of inland water transport.
    • It leverages real-time data and technology to optimize navigation on India’s National Waterways, supporting eco-friendly and cost-effective transport for goods and passengers.
    • Key Features:
      • Real-time monitoring using GPS and GIS for safe vessel navigation.
      • Centralized traffic control centers for efficient operations.
      • Digital platforms for route planning, cargo tracking, and alerts.
      • Integrated infrastructure to streamline operations and reduce delays.
      • Focus on sustainability, economic growth, and capacity building in the inland water transport sector.
    • The system is being deployed across India’s National Waterways, including:
      • NW 1 (River Ganga): Key cargo routes from Haldia to Varanasi.
      • NW 2 (River Brahmaputra): Major transport corridor in the Northeast.
      • NW 3 (West Coast Canal, Champakara Canal, and Udyogmandal Canal), NW 4 (Krishna and Godavari), and NW 5 (Mahanadi rivers and its tributaries): Supporting regional trade and tourism.

    Status of Inland Waterways in India

    • India has a vast network of 14,500 km of navigable waterways, including 111 declared National Waterways (NWs) under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Increase in Operational Waterways: The number of operational NWs has increased by 767% since 2014.
      • Cargo Traffic Growth: Cargo traffic rose from 18 million tonnes in 2013-14 to 133 million tonnes in 2023-24, achieving a CAGR of over 22%.
      • Infrastructure Investments: Investments in NW development increased by 233% post-2014, supported by projects like:
        • Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): Focused on NW 1 (Ganga).
        • Arth Ganga: Empowering local communities through economic activities along NW 1.
      • Tourism Growth: River cruise tourism expanded significantly, with 25 cruise vessels operational in 2023-24, up from 3 in 2013-14.
      • Challenges: Despite this, the share of IWT in India’s overall transport mix remains relatively low compared to global standards.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.

  • [pib] UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD)

    Why in the News?

    India has joined the prestigious UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD).

    About UN-CEBD

    Details
    • Established in 2014 during the 45th session of the UN Statistical Commission.
    • First Chair: Australia.
    • Explores the potential of big data and data science in transforming official statistics.
    • Monitors progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using innovative data sources.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation Mandate:

    • Develop global programs for using big data in official statistics.
    • Monitor SDG indicators using advanced data science.
    • Address challenges like cross-border data sharing and ethical concerns.

    Governance Structure:

    • Advisory Board: Strategic oversight and guidance.
    • UN Bureau: Handles operational tasks.

    Implementation Mechanism:

    • Capacity building through training.
    • Promote global collaboration and innovation.
    Powers and Functions
    • Strategic Vision: Integrate big data into national/international statistical systems.
    • Practical Use: Utilize non-traditional data sources like IoT, satellite imagery, and private sector data.
    • Capacity Building: Train statisticians in data science techniques.
    • Global Standards: Develop frameworks for cross-border data sharing and ethical practices.
    • Policy Integration: Advocate for data-driven policymaking.
    Why India Joined?
    • Enhancing Statistical Capabilities: Modernize processes with IoT, satellite imagery, etc.
    • Global Collaboration: Share innovations like the Data Innovation Lab and learn best practices.
    • SDG Monitoring: Leverage big data for robust tracking of SDGs.
    • Showcasing Leadership: Strengthen India’s position in global data governance.
    • Economic and Policy Benefits: Enable evidence-based decisions to address socio-economic challenges.

  • INTERPOL publishes first Silver Notice targeting criminal assets

    Why in the News?

    The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) has issued a Silver Notice to trace and recover criminal assets, marking the first expansion of its color-coded notices to specifically target the finances of organized crime networks.

    What is Silver Notice?

    • It is an INTERPOL initiative aimed at tracing, locating, and recovering criminal assets linked to crimes such as fraud, corruption, drug trafficking, and environmental offenses.
    • Objective: It targets assets like properties, vehicles, financial accounts, and businesses that are connected to criminal activities.
    • It was launched in 2023 as part of a pilot phase involving 52 countries, and this phase will run until November 2025.
    • How does it work?
      • Member countries can request INTERPOL to issue a Silver Notice for assistance in gathering information about criminal assets.
      • The Notice is shared globally with all 196 INTERPOL member countries, while Diffusions can be directed to specific countries for more targeted cooperation.
      • All Silver Notices and Diffusions are reviewed by INTERPOL’s General Secretariat to ensure compliance with its rules, including prohibitions on political misuse as outlined in Article 3 of the INTERPOL Constitution.
      • The first-ever Silver Notice was requested by Italy to trace assets linked to a senior mafia member, showcasing its potential to combat organized crime.

    INTERPOL publishes first Silver Notice targeting criminal assets

    About INTERPOL

    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Establishment: Founded in 1923 in Vienna, now headquartered in Lyon, France, with 195 member countries.
    • Mandate: Supports cross-border police cooperation, helping agencies combat international crime.
    • India became a member of INTERPOL in June 1956.

    Structural Mandate:

    • Secretary General: Oversees daily operations.
    • General Secretariat (Lyon): Manages global databases and police communication systems.
    • Global Complex for Innovation (Singapore): Research, training, and cybercrime initiatives.
    • Regional Bureaus: Satellite offices worldwide.
    • National Central Bureaus (NCBs): Each member country, such as India’s CBI, serves as its national focal point for INTERPOL.
    • I-24/7 Service: A secure global police communication system enabling real-time sharing of urgent and sensitive information.
    Powers and Functions
    • Data Sharing: Manages 19 police databases on crimes and criminals, accessible in real-time by member countries.
    • Notices and Diffusions: Issues color-coded notices (e.g., Red, Yellow, Blue, Silver) to locate fugitives, missing persons, or criminal assets; not legally binding but widely used by law enforcement.

    Operational Support:
    – Investigative Assistance: Provides forensics, analysis, and fugitive-tracking support.
    – Coordination: Enables law enforcement agencies to handle transnational crime efficiently.

  • [11th January 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Forging leadership with India’s youth power

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC CSE 2016)
    Q) Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification.  (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Demographic Dividend’ (2016) and ‘Literacy Issues in India’ (2021 & 2024).

    The 2021 Youth Report highlighted that 36% of youth consider unemployment their primary concern, followed by 16% citing poverty. These economic issues create significant obstacles for youth aspiring to take on leadership roles.

    Today’s Editorial explores how educational institutions, community programs, and innovative initiatives can cultivate leadership among the youth, preparing them to tackle future challenges. This content can be used while writing your answers based on Population issues, Literacy and Employment Issues in the Indian Youth.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Every year on January 12, India celebrates National Youth Day to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. 

    • This year, the Prime Minister will participate in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, aimed at engaging youth in the nation’s development. 
    • In line with India’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the festival has incorporated workshops, seminars and cultural activities that align with the vision of a greener, more inclusive, future. 
    What are the key areas of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025?

    The dialogue is a four-stage competition aimed at engaging and empowering youth in India’s development.
    • Evaluation Criteria is based on the submissions are assessed based on originality, knowledge, creativity, leadership, and communication skills. The finale provides a unique opportunity for participants to influence national policy and contribute to India’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.
    • Viksit Bharat Quiz: Conducted digitally on the My Bharat platform, this stage tests participants’ knowledge of India’s achievements and challenges related to sustainable development, technology, and national policies.
    • Essay and Blog Writing: Top scorers from the quiz advance to write essays or blogs on themes like “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Youth for Viksit Bharat,” focusing on their vision for India’s future.
    • Vision Pitch Deck: Participants present innovative development ideas at the State level through a compelling pitch deck, with the best teams moving forward.

    The 2025 National Youth Festival will feature: 

    • Workshops and panels on leadership and innovation: With a focus on recent and emerging topics it will equip participants with the skills necessary to drive change in their communities.
    • Cultural programmes: The festival will celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, theatre, and folk art performances. 
    • Tech and innovation showcase: It will include exhibitions and presentations from young tech innovators and entrepreneurs who are building solutions to real-world problems in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and urban development. (included with expanded virtual participation)
    • Engagement with leaders: The direct engagement between youth and key leaders as pathbreakers from various sectors, which include government, business and academia will provide participants with insights into leadership, governance, and the path to national progress.
    • Recognition of youth contributions: Awards and recognitions will be presented to young individuals and organisations.

    By focusing on these areas inclusively, India can cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to address the nation’s challenges.

    What are the barriers preventing youth from participating in leadership opportunities?

    • Lack of Representation: Minimal youth representation in decision-making bodies, such as government and political parties, leads to a disconnect between young voices and policy-making.
      • For example, our youth representation in decision-making bodies is minimal, with less than 1.5% of Lok Sabha MPs under Age 30.
    • Financial Barriers: A notable 60% of students pursuing higher education come from families earning less than Rs. 5 lakh annually, indicating that many youth face financial challenges that limit their access to educational and leadership opportunities. (Youth Report 2021)
    • Age-Related Biases: Societal biases against younger individuals in positions of authority discourage them from seeking leadership roles.
    • Limited Resources and Mentorship: Many young people lack access to mentorship and resources necessary for developing leadership skills (particularly women and less abled people), especially in rural areas.
    Recent Government Initiative: 

    • Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat): It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, plays an instrumental role in shaping and guiding the direction of the National Youth Festival. 
    • As a platform that empowers youth by promoting engagement, knowledge sharing, and participation in nation-building activities, it is crucial in curating the festival’s programmes and ensuring that they align with the aspirations of India’s youth. 

    “Give me one hundred ‘believing’ young men… I will transform India as the number one nation in the entire world….”       — Swami Vivekanand

    In what ways can educational institutions contribute to nurturing future leaders?

    • Structured Leadership Development Programs: Institutions can implement tailored leadership programs that focus on skill development, strategic visioning, and adaptive leadership.
      • For example, the UGC has approved guidelines for such programs in higher education institutions.
    • Experiential Learning Opportunities: Programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experiences can enhance leadership skills.
      • For example, initiatives like the EdLEAP program at IIM Calcutta focus on contemporary management practices.
    • Mentorship and Peer Learning: Establishing mentorship frameworks and peer learning communities can foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among aspiring leaders.
      • For example, the programs like the Primary Leadership Development Program (PLDP) in Delhi emphasize continuous learning and improvement.
    • Focus on Inclusivity and Diversity: Institutions should promote inclusivity by encouraging diverse participation in leadership roles, ensuring that underrepresented groups have access to leadership training and opportunities. This approach helps create a more equitable environment for developing future leaders.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/forging-leadership-with-indias-youth-power/article69086126.ece

  • GenomeIndia project complete, PM Modi calls it historic

    Why in the News?

    India has created a database of 10,000 human genomes, covering 83 population groups, which is about 2% of the country’s 4,600 population groups.

    What are the key achievements of the Genome India Project?

    • Completion of Genome Sequencing: The project successfully sequenced 10,000 human genomes from 83 population groups, representing approximately 2% of India’s 4,600 population groups. This data is now housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) in Faridabad, Haryana.
    • Identification of Genetic Variants: Initial analyses revealed around 27 million genetic variants, with 7 million being low-frequency variants not found in other global databases. This highlights India’s unique genetic diversity and the potential for targeted research.
    • Global Accessibility: The genome data is accessible to researchers worldwide, fostering international collaboration in genomics research and precision medicine.

    What are the impact on Biotechnology and Healthcare?

    • Advancement of Precision Medicine: The database is expected to facilitate advancements in precision medicine by enabling researchers to study disease risks and drug responses specific to the Indian population. This could lead to more effective treatments tailored to genetic variations.
    • Potential for Drug Development: With a focus on understanding genetic predispositions to diseases, the project can support the development of new medications and therapeutic interventions, particularly for genetic and infectious diseases.
    • Strengthening India’s Biotech Economy: The initiative is seen as a cornerstone for bolstering India’s biotechnology sector, enhancing its capacity for genomic research and manufacturing.

    What are the challenges? 

    • Data Privacy and Security: India currently lacks a comprehensive Data Privacy Bill, which raises concerns about the protection of sensitive genetic information. 
      • The absence of robust legal frameworks increases the risk of misuse or unauthorized access to genetic data, potentially compromising individual privacy.
    • Ethical Concerns: The use of genomic data for purposes such as gene editing could lead to ethical dilemmas, including issues related to “designer babies” and unintended consequences of genetic modifications.  
    • Public Trust and Acceptance: Gaining public trust is crucial for the success of the project. There may be apprehensions among individuals regarding how their genetic data will be used, especially if it involves sharing with commercial entities or if there are fears about potential discrimination based on genetic information.
    • Integrity of Data Collection: Ensuring the integrity and accuracy of data collection, storage, and usage is essential. 
      • Without stringent protocols, there is a risk that the data may be misinterpreted or misused, leading to flawed conclusions about genetic predispositions and health risks.

    What steps can be taken to overcome the present challenges? (Way forward)

    • Expanding the Database: Experts suggest increasing the number of sequenced genomes to up to 1 million to better capture India’s vast genetic diversity. This expansion would provide deeper insights into genetic variations across different ethnic groups.
    • Funding and Collaboration: Securing additional funding and forming partnerships with leading research institutions can help overcome financial limitations and enhance data enrichment efforts.
    • Ethical Data Management: Ensuring robust data sharing protocols and privacy measures will be crucial for maintaining public trust and facilitating research access while protecting individual identities.

  • Why the sex ratio in Haryana dropped to an eight-year low in 2024?

    Why in the News?

    The sex ratio at birth in Haryana, which reached a peak of 923 in 2019, declined to 910 in 2024, marking an eight-year low.

    What is the present sex ratio in India? 

    As of January 2025, the sex ratio at birth in India is approximately 933 females per 1,000 males.

    World Bank

    Why Historically has there been an Imbalance in the Sex Ratio in India?

    Historically, India has faced a skewed sex ratio primarily due to cultural preferences for male children, leading to practices such as female foeticide. The sex ratio was recorded at 943 females per 1,000 males during the 2011 Census. Factors contributing to this imbalance include:

    • Cultural Preference for Sons: Societal norms often favour male children, viewing them as economic assets while daughters are seen as financial burdens due to dowry practices.
    • Female Foeticide: The availability of prenatal sex determination technologies has led to sex-selective abortions, contributing to the skewed ratio.
    • Economic Factors: Families may prefer fewer children and opt for sons to secure lineage and support in old age.

    What are the Government Initiatives to Improve the Sex Ratio?

    The Indian government has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the sex ratio:

    • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Campaign: Launched in 2015, this campaign focuses on preventing female foeticide and promoting the welfare of girls.
    • Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (PNDT Act): Enforced to curb sex-selective abortions and promote gender equality.
    • Financial Incentives: Programs such as providing financial assistance at the birth of a girl child (e.g., Rs 21,000) encourage families to value daughters.
    • Education and Awareness Programs: Efforts are made to improve female education and reduce dropout rates among girls, which are crucial for long-term improvements in gender equality.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Law Enforcement and Monitoring: Ensure strict implementation of the PCPNDT Act with increased vigilance and swift action against violations.  
    • Address Cultural and Economic Barriers: Launch targeted campaigns to challenge patriarchal norms, promote gender equality, and incentivise families to raise daughters.  

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for women? Give your arguments. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Prez invite Republic Day reception set to honour crafts from South India

    Why in the News?

    Rashtrapati Bhavan’s revamped “At Home” reception for the 75th Indian Republic now includes a box of GI Tagged handcrafted items from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh along with the invitation card.

    Prez invite Republic Day reception set to honour crafts from South India

    About the GI Tagged products crafted for the Invittees

    The curated box features a variety of handcrafted items with Geographical Indication (GI) tags and sourced from the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative:

    • Bamboo Weave Box: Decorated with Kalamkari paintings crafted by Nimmalakunta artisans from Andhra Pradesh.
    • Ikat-Pochampalli Cover: Reusable even after dismantling the box.
    • Mysore Ganjifa Fridge Magnet: Inspired by the intricate art seen in traditional Ganjifa playing cards.
    • Kanjeevaram Silk Pouch: Handcrafted in Tamil Nadu.
    • Etikopakka Dolls: Male and female wooden dolls from Andhra Pradesh.
    • Screwpine Leaf Bookmark: Woven by artisans from Kerala.

    What is the One District One Product (ODOP)?

    • ODOP initiative is a flagship scheme designed to foster balanced regional development, enhance local economic potential, and promote employment generation by focusing on a unique product from each district.
    • Originally launched by the Uttar Pradesh Government in January 2018, it was later adopted nationwide by the Central Government.
    • It is managed by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and coordinated with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Districts as Export Hubs initiative.
    • It is centrally sponsored, with funding shared between the Central and State Governments in a 60:40 ratio.
    • Key Products Under ODOP
      • Handicrafts: Banarasi silk (Varanasi), Chikankari embroidery (Lucknow), and Madhubani painting (Bihar).
      • Agricultural Products: Alphonso mangoes (Ratnagiri), Litchi (Muzaffarpur), and Black rice (Manipur).
      • Processed Foods: Pickles, spices, and traditional sweets.
      • Industrial Goods: Leather products, pottery, and brassware.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (2015)

    1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
    2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
    3. Tirupathi Laddu

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Indonesia officially joined BRICS as the 11th member

    Why in the News?

    Indonesia has officially joined BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) as a full member. This move was unanimously approved during the 2023 BRICS Summit in Johannesburg and announced by Brazil, which holds the presidency of BRICS in 2025.

    What is BRICS?

    • BRICS represents a coalition of nations committed to fostering economic growth, development cooperation, and global governance reform.
    • BRICS focuses on collaboration across 3 key pillars:
    1. Political and Security Cooperation: Ensuring peace, global stability, and governance reform.
    2. Economic and Financial Cooperation: Promoting trade, investment, and economic resilience.
    3. Cultural and People-to-People Cooperation: Enhancing mutual understanding and societal linkages.
    • Present Members of BRICS
      • Original Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
      • Recent Additions: Indonesia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE.

    Indonesia has officially joined BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) as a full member. This move was unanimously approved during the 2023 BRICS Summit in Johannesburg and announced by Brazil, which holds the presidency of BRICS in 2025.

    Evolution of BRICS:

    • 2001: The term “BRIC” was coined by Jim O’Neill, an economist at Goldman Sachs, in a report highlighting Brazil, Russia, India, and China as fast-growing economies.
    • 2006: BRIC leaders held their first meeting during the G8 Outreach Summit in St. Petersburg, Russia.
    • 2009: The first BRIC Summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, to formalize the grouping.
    • 2010: South Africa joined, transforming BRIC into BRICS.
    • 2014 Fortaleza Declaration: The establishment of the New Development Bank (NDB) and Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) marked significant steps toward financial collaboration.
    • Recent Expansion: In 2023 Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE joined, reflecting BRICS’ expanding influence in the Global South.
    • 2025: Indonesia officially joins.

    Significance of BRICS:

    • Economic Growth: Acts as a significant driver of global economic growth, contributing 24% of global GDP and over 16% of global trade.
    • Multipolar World Advocacy: Promotes a multipolar world order, challenging Western dominance in global governance.
    • South-South Cooperation: Strengthens collaboration among developing nations, addressing shared issues like poverty and climate change.
    • Alternative Financial Systems: Explores mechanisms like the New Development Bank (NDB) and Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) to reduce reliance on Western financial institutions and the US dollar.

    Challenges Faced by BRICS:

    • Diverging Interests: Members have differing priorities, such as India-China tensions and varying stances on global issues.
    • Economic Disparities: Wide differences in economic size and capacity, with China dominating BRICS GDP.
    • Institutional Weakness: Absence of a formal structure and binding agreements limits the bloc’s effectiveness.
    • Geopolitical Pressures: External challenges like Western sanctions on Russia and US-China tensions test BRICS’ cohesion and neutrality.

    PYQ:

    [2014]  With reference to a grouping of countries known as BRICS, consider the following statements:

    1. The First Summit of BRICS was held in Rio de Janeiro in 2009.

    2. South Africa was the last to join the BRICS grouping.

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2