Researchers at Columbia University found that cells can selectively switch off one parent’s copy of a gene. This may explain why some people with harmful mutations remain symptom-free, and it could lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for genetic disorders.
About the Selective Silencing Mechanism:
Selective gene silencing refers to the process where cells inactivate one parent’s copy of a gene (either maternal or paternal), resulting in an unequal contribution of the two gene copies to cellular function.
Previously thought to be rare, recent research reveals that this phenomenon is relatively common and plays a significant role in genetic variability, disease progression, and individual health outcomes.
Key Features:
Inactivation can vary between different cell types (e.g., immune cells and kidney cells).
The process is dynamic and may change over time, adding complexity to how genes function in the body.
Approximately 1 in 20 active genes in some immune cells exhibit this selective bias.
Implications for Health:
This mechanism helps explain why individuals carrying the same disease-causing mutation can have vastly different symptom severities.
It shifts the understanding of genetic diseases, emphasizing the importance of dynamic gene activity patterns alongside static genetic codes.
The discovery opens up opportunities for novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches by focusing on gene expression rather than genetic sequences.
What are its significant applications?
Selective Gene Manipulation: Therapies could be developed to activate healthy gene copies while suppressing diseased ones, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional genetic editing.
Improved Understanding of Diseases: Selective gene silencing explains variability in conditions like lupus and cancer, revealing why some individuals remain symptom-free.
Precision Medicine: By identifying individual patterns of gene expression, personalized treatment options become possible, reducing the need for one-size-fits-all approaches.
Early Interventions: Recognizing at-risk but asymptomatic individuals allows healthcare providers to implement preventive measures and potentially delay disease onset.
Protein-Based Therapies: Focusing on selective gene activity aids in detecting and differentiating disease-related proteins from healthy ones, paving the way for targeted, protein-specific drugs.
PYQ:
[2014] Consider the following techniques/phenomena:
Budding and grafting in fruit plants
Cytoplasmic male sterility
Gene silencing
Which of the above is/are used to create transgenic crops?
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’, marking a significant step in modernizing India’s Armed Forces.
Nine Broad Areas Listed for the ‘Year of Reforms’
Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs): Enhance jointness and resolve inter-service disagreements for effective ITC implementation.
Emerging Domains and Technologies: Prioritize cybersecurity, AI, ML, hypersonics, and robotics, and develop tactics for future warfare.
Operational Collaboration: Strengthen inter-service cooperation through shared training and joint operational capabilities.
Acquisition Reforms: Simplify procedures to expedite procurement and facilitate technology transfers via public-private partnerships.
Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage collaboration between the defence sector and industries to foster innovation.
Civil-Military Coordination: Break silos to eliminate inefficiencies and optimize resources.
Defence Exports: Position India as a global defence exporter, promoting R&D and partnerships with foreign OEMs.
Veterans’ Welfare: Optimize welfare measures for veterans and leverage their expertise.
Cultural Pride: Promote indigenous capabilities and instil pride in Indian culture alongside adopting modern military practices.
Key Initiatives for Defence Modernization in India
Acquisition of Advanced Weaponry: Rafale jets (36 inducted, 26 more planned) enhance air power; S-400 air defence systems provide long-range protection; Arjun Mk-1A tanks boost indigenous capability and firepower.
Indigenous Development: LCA Tejas replaces ageing fighter jets and supports air-to-air refuelling; INS Arihant, India’s first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, strengthens underwater deterrence.
Technological Advancements: Network-centric warfare improves situational awareness (e.g., Project Sanjay, E-Sitrep); AI and robotics enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; cyber warfare capabilities grow under the National Cyber Security Policy.
Defence Production and Export: Domestic production reached a record ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023–24, emphasizing indigenisation; exports hit $2.63 billion, supplying markets like Vietnam and the Philippines.
Strategic Infrastructure: Border security efforts include the Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System and Border Infrastructure Management, improving troop mobility and safeguarding boundaries.
PYQ:
[2014] Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector is now set to be liberalized: What influence this is expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched Bharatpol, a groundbreaking portal developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
What is Bharatpol?
Bharatpol is a unified digital platform designed to enhance collaboration between Indian law enforcement agencies and Interpol, which connects police forces across 195 member countries.
It simplifies international police cooperation, replacing outdated modes of communication like letters and faxes with real-time digital tools.
Goal: Equip Indian law enforcement agencies with modern technology and techniques to track fugitives and address global crime challenges.
Why was it developed?
Rising transnational crimes necessitate real-time international assistance.
Facilitates faster investigations into crimes such as cybercrime, drug trafficking, organized crime, and online radicalization.
Features of Bharatpol:
Integrates CBI’s role as Interpol’s National Central Bureau (NCB-New Delhi)
Simplified Request Mechanism
Rapid Information Dissemination
Utilization of Interpol Notices
Capacity Building and Training
Modules of Bharatpol:
Connect: Acts as a digital extension of Interpol’s NCB-New Delhi, ensuring seamless and secure communication between Indian agencies and Interpol.
INTERPOL Notices: Simplifies the process of issuing and managing Interpol Notices, ensuring swift action on international alerts.
References: Streamlines the use of global criminal data, enabling faster investigations.
Broadcast: Allows real-time sharing of requests and updates from Interpol’s 195 member countries.
Resources: Facilitates the exchange of documents, training materials, and capacity-building resources.
How does Bharatpol enhance Interpol’s functionality?
Bharatpol extends Interpol’s reach in India, connecting local police to global law enforcement networks.
It allows instant transmission of critical information, enhancing the efficiency of investigations and international cooperation.
It simplifies the process for Indian agencies to access Interpol’s 19 databases on crimes, criminals, and stolen assets.
It ensures a structured approach to tracking fugitives and resolving international cases.
NITI Aayog, the premier policy think tank of the Government of India, celebrates a significant milestone as it completes 10 years since its establishment.
What are the roles and functions of NITI Aayog?
NITI Aayog, established in 2015, serves as the premier policy think tank of the Government of India. Its primary roles and functions include:
Policy Formulation: NITI Aayog is responsible for formulating strategic and long-term policies aimed at promoting sustainable development across various sectors.
Coordination: It coordinates the efforts of central ministries, state governments, and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of government schemes and initiatives.
Monitoring and Evaluation: The organization monitors the progress of various developmental programs and evaluates their effectiveness, particularly in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Data Collection and Analysis: NITI Aayog collects and analyzes data to inform policy decisions, including the development of the SDG India Index which tracks progress across states.
What are the key differences between the Planning Commission and NITI Aayog?
Feature
Planning Commission
NITI Aayog
Formation
Established in 1950
Established in 2015
Mandate
Centralized planning and allocation of funds
Policy advisory and coordination
Approach
Top-down approach
Bottom-up approach
Funds Allocation
Had the power to allocate funds to states
No fund allocation powers
Federalism
Limited state participation
Emphasis on cooperative federalism
Focus
Five-year plans
Dynamic and flexible strategy formulation
Structure
Static, hierarchical
Dynamic, with active participation from stakeholders
Why did the Government replace the Planning Commission with NITI Aayog?
Need for a Modern Approach: The Planning Commission’s top-down, centralized model was considered outdated in the context of India’s diverse and evolving socio-economic landscape.
NITI Aayog was established to adopt a more flexible, bottom-up approach that encourages participation from states and local governments, reflecting the need for tailored solutions to regional challenges.
Cooperative Federalism: NITI Aayog aims to foster cooperative federalism by promoting collaboration between the central and state governments.
This contrasts with the Planning Commission, where states had limited input and were often treated as passive participants in the planning process.
Focus on Strategic Input: NITI Aayog is designed to serve as a think tank that provides strategic guidance and policy recommendations rather than merely allocating resources. This shift allows for a more dynamic response to economic needs and aspirations of the populace.
Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: The establishment of NITI Aayog followed extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including state governments, domain experts, and the public. This inclusive approach is intended to ensure that policies are relevant and effective.
Relevance in a Globalized Economy: With India’s integration into the global economy, there was a recognized need for an institution that could adapt to changing economic conditions and promote competitive federalism rather than a one-size-fits-all planning model.
What is the 2030 and 2035 NITI Aayog roadmap?
NITI Aayog has outlined a comprehensive roadmap aimed at achieving sustainable development goals by 2030 and establishing a long-term vision for 2035. This roadmap encompasses various sectors, including energy, health, and technology.
Goals for 2030
Energy Transition: NITI Aayog aims to ensure that India meets 50% of its energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030. This includes achieving a non-fossil energy capacity of 500 GW and reducing carbon emissions by one billion tonnes during the same period.
Public Health Enhancement: The focus is on strengthening public health surveillance systems to be more inclusive, covering non-communicable diseases and environmental conditions.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): NITI Aayog is committed to aligning national policies with the SDGs, ensuring that developmental strategies are integrated with global sustainability targets, particularly in areas such as poverty alleviation, education, and gender equality.
Vision for 2035
Long-term Economic Growth: The Vision Document for 2035 emphasizes creating a roadmap that focuses on economic growth while ensuring social equity and environmental sustainability. This involves leveraging technology and innovation to drive inclusive growth across various sectors.
Energy Security: The 2035 vision includes comprehensive strategies for energy access, affordability, reliability, and security, addressing both current challenges and future needs in the energy sector.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration: NITI Aayog plans to harness AI technologies across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and urban infrastructure to improve efficiency and service delivery.
What are the challenges?
Data Management: Effective implementation of the roadmap requires robust data collection and management systems to monitor progress accurately and inform policy decisions.
Inter-State Disparities: Addressing inequalities among states in terms of resource allocation and development outcomes is crucial for achieving national goals.
Funding and Resources: Securing adequate funding for ambitious projects aimed at renewable energy expansion, public health improvements, and technological advancements poses a significant challenge.
Capacity Building: Developing the necessary skills and expertise within the workforce to implement new technologies and strategies effectively is essential for success.
Way forward:
Strengthen Institutional Capacity: Enhance data infrastructure, governance frameworks, and inter-state coordination to address disparities and improve policy implementation.
Foster Public-Private Collaboration: Leverage partnerships with the private sector to secure funding, drive innovation, and scale renewable energy, public health, and technology initiatives.
Mains PYQ:
Q How are the principles followed by NITI Aayog different from those followed by the erstwhile planning commission in India? (UPSC IAS/2018)
Bellatrix Aerospace, the Bengaluru-based space startup, has announced a significant milestone with the successful demonstration of its Rudra High-Performance Green Propulsion System during the PSLV C-60 mission, onboard the POEM-4 platform.
About Rudra 1N System:
The Rudra 1N System is an advanced green mono-propellant propulsion system developed by Bellatrix Aerospace, a Bengaluru-based space technology start-up.
It is a cutting-edge solution for space propulsion, designed to enhance efficiency, precision, and sustainability in satellite and space platform operations.
Features and Significance:
Demonstrated a 1.4-degree/sec disturbance on the Yaw axis and an 80-degree angular rotation during its operational tests, highlighting its precise manoeuvering capabilities.
Utilizes a non-toxic, environmentally friendly propellant to minimize ecological impact during space missions.
Offers a cleaner alternative to traditional chemical propulsion systems.
Entirely designed and manufactured in-house, showcasing Bellatrix Aerospace’s technological independence.
Suitable for a variety of satellite sizes and mission profiles, offering scalability.
About the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4)
POEM-4 is a platform developed by ISRO that repurposes the spent 4th stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) into a functional orbital laboratory.
It enables cost-effective research in space by hosting various scientific and technological experiments in microgravity.
It utilizes the fourth stage of the PSLV rocket as a stable microgravity testbed.
It supports diverse experiments, such as studying plant growth, bacterial behavior, and other space phenomena.
It thus maximizes the utility of what would otherwise become space debris.
POEM-4 was launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, also known as the SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission.
Several major US banks have recently withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), raising concerns about the banking sector’s commitment to combating climate change.
What is Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA)?
Established as a bank-led, UN-convened initiative, the NZBA commits members to align their lending, investment, and capital market activities with achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.
It is a part of the UNEP Financial Initiative’s Principles for Responsible Banking, serving as a climate accelerator.
NZBA retains 142 members from 44 countries, with 80 European banks representing the majority of the alliance’s $64 trillion in assets.
No Indian banks are signatory to this NZBA.
Structural Mandate:
Overseen by a Steering Group representing diverse geographies and business models.
Supported by the UNEP FI Secretariat and governed under documents updated in August 2023 and March 2024.
Commitments of Member Banks:
Transition operational and portfolio emissions to align with net-zero pathways.
Set 2030 targets (or sooner) within 18 months of joining and establish intermediate targets every five years.
Publish annual reports on absolute emissions and emissions intensity.
What is the Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Target by 2050?
Net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 refer to achieving a balance between the amount of GHGs emitted into the atmosphere and the amount removed or offset by natural or technological means.
This target is critical for limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
About the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ)
The GFANZ is a global coalition of leading financial institutions committed to accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy and achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
It was established in April 2021 in the lead-up to the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow.
Membership comprises over 550 financial institutions across 50 countries.
Includes banks, insurers, asset managers, and other financial players managing a combined $150 trillion in assets.
It is chaired by Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of England and current UN Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance.
It is supported by global initiatives like the UN Race to Zero campaign and other financial alliances.
PYQ:
[2016] The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of:
(a) Pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East.
(b) Plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change.
(c) Capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
(d) Plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals.
Addressing NCC cadets in Delhi, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar outlined a visionary roadmap for India’s development, rooted in five guiding principles known as PanchPran.
What is Panch Pran (Five Pillars of National Transformation)?
The PanchPran, or five resolves, represent the core principles that aim to guide India’s progress toward becoming a globally admired nation.
This framework integrates personal responsibility, traditional values, environmental sustainability, cultural pride, unity, and self-reliance to shape a stronger and more resilient nation.
The 5 principles are:
Social Harmony: Strengthens national unity by transforming India’s diverse cultures and traditions into sources of collective strength.
Family Enlightenment: Emphasizes the role of families in nurturing patriotic and moral values, forming the foundation for a cohesive and enlightened society.
Environmental Consciousness: Advocates for sustainable development through the conservation and protection of natural resources.
Swadeshi: Promotes self-reliance and prioritization of indigenous products as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Civic Duties: Encourages citizens to actively contribute to the nation’s progress by fulfilling their civic responsibilities.
About National Cadet Corps (NCC)
The NCC is the youth wing of the Indian Armed Forces with its headquarters in New Delhi.
It is open to school and college students on voluntary basis as a Tri-Services Organisation, comprising the Army, the Navy and the Air Force.
Cadets are given basic military training in small arms and drill.
Officers and cadets have no liability for active military service once they complete their course.
The NCC was formed in 1948.
It can be traced back to the ‘University Corps’, which was created under the Indian Defence Act 1917, with the objective to make up for a shortage of personnel in the Army.
The NCC is headed by the Director General (DG), an officer of 3-star rank.
Q) Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgement on ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India.(UPSC CSE 2017)
Q) The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. (UPSC CSE 2020)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains has always focused on ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ (2017) and Comparison between judicial systems in India and the UK (2020)
Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud is starting his final working week. During his time leading the Supreme Court Collegium, the team worked hard to fill judicial vacancies but overlooked some important issues.In two years, the Collegium supported free speech online, dignity for all regardless of sexual orientation, and fairness in judicial appointments.
Today’s editorial talks about the reform in the Collegium system of India and this content will help you in the Mains answer (GS II) paper to steps taken in reform related to the Judicial system in India.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Recently, two significant developments regarding the Supreme Court of India’s Collegium have emerged – firstly, the interviews for Judicial Candidates and secondly the exclusion of Relatives in Judiciary.
The Collegium will now conduct interviews for candidates recommended for High Court elevation, shifting from a reliance on biodata to personal assessments.
The Collegium is considering excluding candidates with close relatives who are or have been judges, aiming to reduce nepotism and promote diversity in judicial appointments.
How is the Collegium system adapting to recent controversies and challenges?
Candidate Interviews: The Collegium has decided to conduct interviews for candidates recommended for elevation to High Courts. This step aims to enhance the selection process by allowing decision-makers to engage directly with nominees, thereby improving the assessment of their qualifications.
Exclusion of Relatives: The Collegium plans to exclude candidates whose close relatives have served or are currently serving as judges in the High Courts or the Supreme Court.
This initiative seeks to promote diversity within the judiciary and reduce concerns about nepotism, although it recognizes that some deserving candidates may be overlooked.
Need for Formal Rules: There is a pressing need for a clear set of binding rules governing the Collegium’s functioning. Currently, the system operates without formal regulations, leading to concerns about accountability and transparency. Establishing such rules is essential for maintaining the integrity of the judicial appointment process.
What is the Collegium system?
The Three Judges Cases form the cornerstone of the collegium system in India, which governs the appointment and transfer of judges to the higher judiciary. These cases interpreted the provisions of Article 124 and Article 217 of the Constitution, dealing with the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts, respectively.
•First Judges Case (1981): The Supreme Court ruled that the executive (President) has primacy in judicial appointments, and the Chief Justice of India’s (CJI) opinion is not binding, granting greater power to the executive. •Second Judges Case (1993): The court overruled the First Judges Case, establishing the collegium system, where judicial appointments and transfers are decided by the judiciary, led by the CJI and senior judges, ensuring judicial independence. •Third Judges Case (1998): The collegium was expanded to include the CJI and the four senior-most judges for Supreme Court appointments and CJI with two senior-most judges for High Court appointments, refining the process for transparency and collective decision-making.
What is the criticism of the Collegium system?
•NJAC Act (2014): Parliament attempted to replace the collegium system with the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC). However, the NJAC was struck down in the Fourth Judges Case (2015) as unconstitutional, as it was deemed to compromise the independence of the judiciary. •Ongoing Debates: Critics argue that the collegium system lacks transparency, accountability, and an objective process for appointments. Reforms to balance independence with accountability remain a contentious issue.
What are the potential consequences of leadership changes within the Supreme Court for the Collegium’s future?
Impact on Reform Initiatives: New Chief Justices may prioritize different aspects of judicial appointments, influencing how reforms are implemented. A Chief Justice committed to reform could advocate for greater transparency and adherence to established procedures, while a more conservative leader might resist changes.
Shifts in Decision-Making Dynamics: The leadership style of incoming Chief Justices can alter the dynamics within the Collegium, affecting how candidates are evaluated and selected. This could lead to variations in collegial discussions and recommendations.
Implementation of Existing Rules: The ability to enforce existing legal frameworks related to judicial appointments will depend on the leadership’s willingness to uphold rulings from previous Judges’ cases. Respecting these rulings is crucial for maintaining judicial independence and ensuring that the law is followed.
Way forward:
Formalize Collegium Procedures: Draft and implement clear binding rules to govern the Collegium’s functioning which ensures transparency, accountability, and merit-based judicial appointments while addressing concerns of nepotism and bias.
Strengthen Institutional Practices: Institutionalize reforms like candidate interviews, broaden diversity, and adopt technology-driven decision-making to enhance efficiency, fairness, and public confidence in the judiciary.
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the Legislative Assembly without giving his opening address for the first session of the year, saying the National Anthem was not played before his speech. Last year, he also refused to read his address.
What is the practice followed in the TN Legislative Assembly during and after the Governor’s address?
Governor’s Address Protocol: Traditionally, the Tamil Thai Vaazhthu (state anthem) is sung at the beginning of the Governor’s address, while the National Anthem is played at the end. This practice was established in July 1991 during the AIADMK government led by Jayalalithaa.
Recent Incident: Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the Assembly without delivering his address, citing that only the state anthem was played upon his arrival and not the National Anthem. He expressed that this constituted a disrespect to both the Constitution and the National Anthem.
Is singing the National Anthem mandatory on certain occasions?
Constitutional Duty: Article 51(A)(a) of the Constitution includes respecting the National Anthem as a fundamental duty of every citizen. However, it does not make its singing or playing mandatory on specific occasions.
Government Guidelines: The Ministry of Home Affairs’ Orders specify occasions when the National Anthem must be played, such as during civil and military investitures, parades, arrival/departure of the President or Governor, and ceremonial State functions.
Judicial Clarifications: The courts have observed that while the National Anthem deserves respect, its singing or playing on all occasions is not mandatory unless explicitly specified.
For instance, during cinema screenings, the Supreme Court ruled that playing the anthem is not obligatory but encouraged.
Can punishment be imposed if it isn’t played at official functions?
Legal Provisions: The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 penalizes deliberate insult or contempt of the National Anthem with imprisonment up to 3 years, a fine, or both.
Non-playing or non-singing of the anthem does not attract punishment unless it is a willful act of disrespect.
Relevant Case Example: In 2019, the Madras High Court dismissed a petition seeking punishment for the non-playing of the National Anthem at an official function, citing the lack of a legal mandate to enforce its singing or playing on all occasions.
Why does the government make the national anthem on major government occasions?
Fostering Unity and National Pride: Playing the National Anthem at significant government events reinforces a sense of collective identity, unity, and patriotism among citizens. It serves as a symbolic reminder of shared national values and aspirations, transcending regional, linguistic, and cultural differences.
Respecting Constitutional Ideals: Mandating the National Anthem aligns with Article 51(A)(a) of the Constitution, which enshrines the fundamental duty of every citizen to respect the National Anthem.
Its inclusion in major events underscores the importance of honouring national symbols and promoting a culture of respect and accountability in public life.
Way forward:
Establish Uniform Protocols: The government should issue clear and consistent guidelines for playing the National Anthem at official events to avoid confusion and ensure uniformity across states and institutions.
Promote Awareness and Respect: Conduct awareness campaigns emphasising the significance of the National Anthem as a unifying symbol, fostering voluntary respect and participation without compulsion or controversy.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature. (UPSC IAS/2022)
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated “Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0” which seeks to give insight into the Constitution and parliamentary procedures to over 500 women representatives from Panchayati Raj institutions from across the country.
About“Panchayat Se Parliament”
The second edition of the program was organized by the National Commission for Women (NCW) in collaboration with the Lok Sabha Secretariat and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
The program brought together 502 elected women representatives from Scheduled Tribes, hailing from 22 states and Union Territories across India.
Objectives: The primary objectives of Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0 were to:
Empower women representatives by enhancing their understanding of constitutional provisions, parliamentary procedures, and governance frameworks.
Recognize the contributions of women leaders in areas such as education, rural development, and community welfare.
The first edition of the program, Panchayat Se Parliament 1.0, was held in January 2024.
It involved over 500 women sarpanches from across India and was organized by the National Commission for Women (NCW) in collaboration with the Lok Sabha Secretariat.
About National Commission for Women (NCW)
The NCW is a statutory body formed on 31 January 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990, to address women’s issues.
First Chairperson: Jayanti Patnaik.
Constitutional Provisions: Articles 15(3), 14, and 21 provide gender-neutral safeguards.
Objectives:
Represent women’s rights in India and provide a platform for their concerns.
Campaign topics: Dowry, politics, labor exploitation, police abuses, and equal representation in jobs.
Composition:
Chairperson: Nominated by the Central Government.
Five Members: Experts from fields like law, education, health, and women’s welfare.
Special Representation: One member each from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Powers:
Provide policy consultations.
Issue summons and requisition public records.
Receive evidence on affidavits and enforce attendance.
Functions:
Annual Reports: Submit reports on women’s safeguards.
Investigation: Examine laws and constitutional protections.
Scrutiny: Review laws and recommend amendments.
Complaint Handling: Address rights violations and welfare laws.
Development Assessment: Monitor progress at national and state levels.
Systemic Improvements: Identify and resolve limitations in women’s welfare systems.
PYQ:
[2017] Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer.
