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  • [12th December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The long and complex road to assisted dying

    PYQ Relevance:

    [2018] Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement? 
    (a) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution.
    (b) Article 17 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV.
    (c) Article 21 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III.
    (d) Article 24 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution.

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on the ‘Right to Life and Personal Liberty’ (in 2018), and ‘scope of Fundamental Rights’ (in 2017).

    In the UK parliament, Ms Leadbeater shared a harrowing case of a music teacher’s agonizing death from bile duct cancer to highlight the suffering faced by terminally ill patients during the presentation of the bill. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25, allows terminally ill adults with less than six months to live to seek physician-assisted dying.

    Today’s editorial highlights the possible impacts of Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    While presenting the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25 (The Assisted Dying Law) to the British House of Commons, Member of Parliament Kim Leadbeater shared a harrowing account of an “agonising death.”

    What are the ethical implications of legalising assisted dying?

    • Autonomy and Personal Choice: It emphasizes the right of individuals to make decisions about their own bodies and lives, particularly in the context of terminal illness. Advocates argue that respecting personal autonomy is fundamental to human dignity.
    • Slippery Slope Concern: Critics warn that legalizing assisted dying could lead to broader interpretations of who qualifies for assistance, potentially endangering vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and disabled, who might feel pressured to choose death over being a burden.
    • Moral Conflict: The issue creates a moral dilemma between the sanctity of life and compassion for those suffering unbearable pain. Opponents often cite religious or philosophical beliefs that uphold the inviolability of life, while proponents argue for compassion and relief from suffering.

    How do current legislative proposals address concerns about patient safety and coercion?

    Current legislative proposals, such as the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25, incorporate several measures aimed at addressing concerns about patient safety and coercion:

    • Strict Eligibility Criteria: The law only permits assisted dying for terminally ill adults with a prognosis of less than six months to live, ensuring that only those facing imminent death can seek assistance.
    • Independent Assessments: Requests for assisted dying must be signed off by two independent doctors, which helps safeguard against coercion and ensures that patients are making informed decisions.
    • Reflection Period: A mandatory 14-day reflection period allows individuals to reconsider their decision, further protecting against impulsive choices made under distress.
    • Judicial Oversight: Final approval from a High Court judge is required before any assisted dying can occur, adding layer of scrutiny to prevent misuse.

    What is the public sentiment regarding assisted dying, and how does it influence policy?

    Public sentiment regarding assisted dying is increasingly supportive, influencing policy discussions in several ways:

    • Growing Acceptance: Surveys indicate a rising acceptance of assisted dying among the public, particularly in cases involving terminal illness. This shift reflects changing attitudes towards end-of-life choices and personal autonomy.
    • Impact on Lawmakers: As public opinion evolves, lawmakers may feel compelled to act by constituents’ views, leading to legislative proposals like the recent Bill. The release from party whips during voting indicates an acknowledgement of the issue’s complexity and the need for individual conscience in decision-making.
    • Influence of Personal Stories: Personal narratives shared by advocates, such as Kim Leadbeater’s account of a music teacher’s agonising death, resonate with the public and lawmakers alike, highlighting the real-life implications of assisted dying laws. These stories can sway opinions and catalyze legislative action.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Palliative Care and Awareness: Simultaneously invest in accessible and quality palliative care services to provide comprehensive support for terminally ill patients, while fostering public awareness about end-of-life options to ensure informed and compassionate decision-making.
    • Strengthen Safeguards and Monitoring: Implement robust mechanisms to prevent misuse, including regular audits, transparent reporting, and enhanced judicial and medical oversight, ensuring the law remains strictly within its intended scope.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-long-and-complex-road-to-assisted-dying/article68974096.ece

  • Vaikom- two States, two leaders and a tale of reform

    Why in the News?

    Over a century ago, the Vaikom Struggle broke caste barriers in Travancore, sparking mass movements for religious reform, inspiring Periyar’s Dravidian Movement, and advancing egalitarian principles within Hindu society.

    What were the key motivations and outcomes of the Vaikom Satyagraha?

    Motivations:

    • Social Inequality: The primary motivation was to challenge the caste-based discrimination that prohibited backward caste Hindus from accessing streets near the Vaikom Mahadeva temple.
    • Demand for Equal Rights: A call for equality and dignity for all castes within the Hindu religion.
    • Religious Reform: The movement sought to highlight the need for social justice through religious reform and temple entry rights.
    • Political Awareness: It aimed to bring political attention to caste discrimination and mobilize support for broader social changes.

    Outcomes:

    • Immediate Impact: The restrictions on backward castes from walking near the temple were lifted in 1925, marking a significant social reform milestone.
    • Mass Mobilization: It became one of the first large-scale movements in South India that united people across caste and class lines.
    • Precedent for Temple Entry Movements: The success of Vaikom inspired subsequent movements across India, including protests led by B.R. Ambedkar.
    • Legislative Reforms: It influenced the introduction of laws like the Madras Temple Entry Authorization Act (1947), allowing all Hindus to enter temples.
    • Foundation for Social Justice Policies: The movement set the stage for government interventions in temple management and appointments of priests from backward castes.

    How did the leadership of the movement influence its success?

    • The success of the Vaikom Satyagraha can be attributed largely to its leadership. Key figures included Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, who played a crucial role in mobilising support across various social strata and employing nonviolent methods of protest. His involvement transformed the movement into a mass agitation that attracted participants from all classes.
    • The support from Mahatma Gandhi, who visited Vaikom in March 1925 and engaged with various caste groups, further amplified its impact. The collaboration among leaders from different backgrounds, including local leaders like T.K. Madhavan and K.P. Kesava Menon, was instrumental in broadening the movement’s appeal and sustaining momentum against state repression.

    What lessons can contemporary society learn from the Vaikom Satyagraha regarding caste and social justice?

    The Vaikom Satyagraha offers several important lessons for contemporary society regarding caste and social justice:

    • Collective Action: The movement exemplifies how collective action can effectively challenge systemic injustices. It highlights the importance of unity among diverse groups in advocating for social change.
    • Nonviolent Protest: The use of nonviolent methods remains a powerful tool for social movements today. The Gandhian approach adopted during the Vaikom Satyagraha serves as a model for contemporary struggles against discrimination and inequality.
    • State Intervention: The eventual recognition of rights for marginalised communities underscores that government intervention can be necessary to dismantle entrenched social hierarchies. This raises discussions about how modern states can balance secularism with equitable access to public resources.
    • Continuous Struggle: The resistance faced by reformers during and after the Vaikom Satyagraha illustrates that societal change is often met with opposition. This calls for sustained efforts in advocating for equality and justice in today’s context.

    Conclusion: The Vaikom Satyagraha was a landmark movement for caste and social justice, showcasing the power of collective action, nonviolence, and reformist leadership. Its legacy inspires continued efforts toward equality, challenging entrenched discrimination, and fostering inclusive societies.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Impeachment of Judges

    Why in the News?

    The Opposition in Rajya Sabha is preparing to move a motion for impeachment of Allahabad High Court Judge for his controversial remarks inciting communal hatred.

    Impeachment Process for Judges in India:

    About
    • The process involves Parliament passing an address to the President to remove the judge.
    • To pass the motion, two–thirds of the MPs present and voting in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha;
      • Must approve it, with a majority of more than 50% of the total membership of each House.
    Key Constitutional Provisions
    • Article 124(4): The judge can only be removed by a Presidential order, passed after a majority vote in both Houses of Parliament.
    • The vote must come from two-thirds of the members present and voting.
    • Articles 218 of the Constitution extends the same rules to High Court judges.
    • The impeachment process ensures judicial independence by maintaining a high bar for removal, limiting political influence.
    Grounds for Impeachment
    • A judge of the Supreme Court or High Court can be impeached on two grounds: “proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity” as per the Constitution of India.
    • Further clarified in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, including:
      • Misuse of office
      • Grave offences that undermine the judge’s integrity
      • Contravention of the provisions of the Constitution.
    What does the process entail? Procedure under the Judges Inquiry Act, 1968:

    Initial Step: The impeachment motion must be signed by at least 100 MPs in the Lok Sabha and 50 MPs in the Rajya Sabha.

    Committee Formation: Once the motion is introduced, the Speaker or Chairperson of the respective House forms a three-member inquiry committee:

    1. Headed by the Chief Justice of India or a Supreme Court judge.
    2. The second member is usually a Chief Justice of any High Court.
    3. The third member is a distinguished jurist, appointed by the Speaker or Chairman.

    Inquiry Process: The committee investigates the charges, cross-examines witnesses, and regulates its procedure.
    The committee may also request a medical test if the charge relates to mental incapacity.

    Outcome: If the committee finds the judge not guilty, the motion is dismissed. If found guilty, it will be reported back to the House for further action.

     

    Instances of Impeachment in India:

    • 1993: Justice V Ramaswami (Supreme Court) faced impeachment proceedings on financial impropriety. The motion was unsuccessful despite a guilty finding.
    • 2011: Justice Soumitra Sen (Calcutta High Court) was impeached for corruption but resigned before Lok Sabha could take up the matter.
    • 2015: Justice S K Gangele (Madhya Pradesh High Court) faced impeachment on charges of sexual harassment, but the committee cleared him in 2017.
    • 2015: Justice J B Pardiwala (Gujarat High Court) faced impeachment for controversial remarks about reservation but the motion was dropped after the judge expunged the remarks.
    • 2017: Justice C V Nagarjuna (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana High Court) faced impeachment for financial misconduct and victimizing a Dalit judge, but the motion was not pursued.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. The motion to impeach a Judge of the Supreme Court of India cannot be rejected by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha as per the Judges (inquiry) Act, 1968.

    2. The Constitution of India defines and gives details of what constitutes ‘incapacity and proved misbehaviour’ of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India.

    3. The details of the process of impeachment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India are given in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.

    4. If the motion for the impeachment of a Judge is taken up for voting, the law requires the motion to be backed by each House of the Parliament and supported by a majority of total membership of that House and by not less than two-thirds of total members of that House present and voting.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4

  • Centre wants States to make Snakebites a Notifiable Disease

    Why in the News?

    The Union Health Ministry has urged states to make snakebites a Notifiable Disease, meaning both private and public hospitals must report it to the government.

    Snakebites Menace in India:

    • Snakebites are a significant public health concern in India, with approximately 3 to 4 million cases reported annually.
      • It causes an estimated 58,000 deaths every year, according to the 2020 Indian Million Death Study.
    • States such as Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat report the highest number of snakebites.
    • The National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE), launched by the government earlier in 2024, aims to halve snakebite deaths by 2030 and includes making snakebites notifiable.

    What are Notifiable Diseases?

    • Notifiable diseases are those that must be reported to the government for effective public health monitoring and management. These are typically:
      • Infectious diseases likely to cause outbreaks.
      • Diseases that result in deaths or require quick action to prevent wider transmission.
    • Legal Basis:
      • According to WHO’s International Health Regulations, 1969, disease reporting is mandatory for global surveillance.
      • The primary law governing notifiable diseases is the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 which outlines the reporting requirements for diseases considered a public health threat.
        • However, the specific list of notifiable diseases can vary across different states and is typically determined by the respective state governments under their individual public health acts.
    • Common examples of notifiable diseases include tuberculosis, HIV, cholera, malaria, dengue, and hepatitis.

    Why snakebite is considered a Notifiable Disease?

    • Snakebites can cause severe health issues, including paralysis, fatal hemorrhages, and tissue damage, making it crucial for timely intervention.
      • Victims need immediate antivenom treatment to prevent death and long-term effects.
    • In 2009, the WHO added snakebite to its list of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD), acknowledging its widespread impact on public health.
    • Making snakebites a notifiable disease will enhance surveillance, help track case numbers, and improve treatment strategies across the country.
    • It will ensure the availability of adequate antivenoms in regions where snakebites are frequent.
    • Medical staff will receive training to handle snakebite cases effectively, reducing mortality rates.

  • [pib] Projects under PM-DevINE Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Development of North-East Region has provided progress update regarding various projects under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) Scheme.

    About the PM-DevINE Scheme:

    Details PM-DevINE is a Central Sector scheme introduced under the Union Budget 2022-23, aiming to drive development in the North Eastern Region (NER) through infrastructure and social projects.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Infrastructure Development: Enhance connectivity and accessibility in NER, aligned with PM GatiShakti.
    • Social Development: Address critical issues and improve residents’ quality of life.
    • Livelihood Opportunities: Focus on creating opportunities for youth and women.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Nodal Agency: Ministry of Development of North-East Region.
    • Approval: Cabinet approved on 12th October 2022.
    • Central Funding: 100% central funding for projects.
    • Outlay: Rs. 6600 crore for FY 2022-23 to FY 2025-26.
    • Project Sanctions: 35 projects worth Rs. 4857.11 crore sanctioned as of November 2024.
    State-wise Project Analysis
    • Sikkim: Passenger Ropeway System (completed), Skywalk Project (13% completed).
    • Mizoram: Bamboo Link Roads (28% completed).
    • Nagaland: Special Development Projects (30% completed).
    • Assam: School Transformations (55% completed), IT Park Construction (23% completed).
    • Manipur: Infrastructure for Manipur Technical University (25% completed).
    • Tripura: Solar Micro Grid (30% completed), Skill Development Centre (work started).

  • [pib] Jan Aushadhi Kendra’s by PACS

    Why in the News?

    • The Government has empowered Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) to operate Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK), aiming to provide generic medicines at affordable prices to underserved rural areas.

    About Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK) by PACS:

    Details
    • PMBJKs were established in November 2008.
    • Government-established outlets that provide affordable, quality generic medicines.
    • Operated by PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Societies) in rural areas.
      • PACS are empowered to run these Kendras to ensure accessibility in remote regions under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
    Aims and Objectives To provide affordable medicines, promote healthcare equity, and reduce medical expenses for farmers, while generating local employment and ensuring PACS’ financial sustainability through the sale of medicines and allied products.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Administered by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers;
    • Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI) is the implementation agency.

    Implementation:

    • PACS receive technical and administrative support from the Department of Pharmaceuticals.
    • PACS leverage their existing infrastructure, including land, buildings, and storage, to run the Kendras.
    • PACS-run Kendras receive a 20% incentive on monthly purchases, capped at Rs. 20,000 per month.
    • Kendra owners receive a 20% margin on MRP (excluding taxes).
    • They can sell allied medical products.
    Features and Significance
    • Affordable Medicine Distribution: Ensures that generic medicines are affordable in rural areas.
    • Economic and Healthcare Benefits: Reduces medical costs and improves healthcare outcomes for farmers.
    • Alignment with National Health Policy: Supports equitable healthcare access, especially in remote areas.
    • Strengthening Rural Infrastructure: Utilizes PACS’ infrastructure to boost rural healthcare.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector could help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives would you suggest?

  • The code of conduct judges need to follow

    Why in the News? 

    Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court made comments against the Muslim community at an event organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s legal cell, which has caused a lot of public criticism.

    What are the key ethical principles outlined in the code of conduct for judges?

    • Majority Rule: Justice Yadav stated that India would function according to the wishes of the majority, referring to Hindus as the “bahusankhyak” (majority) community. He implied that the values taught to children in one community differ significantly from those in another, particularly regarding animal slaughter practices.
    • Critique of Muslim Practices: He criticized certain practices within the Muslim community, such as polygamy and triple talaq, while asserting that Hindus revere women as goddesses. This comparison has been interpreted as a direct attack on Islamic traditions.
    • Response from Legal Community: The Campaign for Judicial Accountability and Reforms has called for an inquiry into Justice Yadav’s conduct, arguing that his statements violate judicial ethics and undermine public confidence in the judiciary. Prominent legal figures have also suggested impeachment proceedings against him.

    How do codes of conduct vary across different jurisdictions and judicial systems?

    • United States: The American Bar Association has established Model Rules of Professional Conduct which emphasize independence, integrity, and impartiality.
    • United Kingdom: The Judicial Conduct Investigations Office oversees judicial behavior, with a focus on maintaining public confidence in the judiciary.
    • India: The Restatement of Values of Judicial Life serves as a guiding document for judges, emphasizing the need for impartiality and respect for constitutional values.

    What are the consequences for judges who violate the code of conduct?

    • In-House Procedures: Many jurisdictions have internal mechanisms allowing for complaints against judges to be investigated without public embarrassment.
    • Impeachment: In severe cases, judges can be impeached for misconduct, requiring a significant legislative majority to proceed.
    • Public Reprimand or Suspension: Depending on the severity of the violation, judges may receive reprimands or temporary suspensions from their duties.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Accountability Mechanisms: Establish clearer and more transparent procedures for addressing judicial misconduct, including an independent body to investigate complaints and ensure timely action, thus preserving public trust in the judiciary.
    • Promote Judicial Sensitivity and Training: Implement regular training programs on diversity, impartiality, and the ethical responsibilities of judges to reinforce the importance of maintaining neutrality and respect for all communities, both in and out of the courtroom.

     

    The Opposition in Rajya Sabha is preparing to move a motion for impeachment of Allahabad High Court Judge for the same controversial remarks inciting communal hatred.

    Impeachment Process for Judges in India:

    About
    • The process involves Parliament passing an address to the President to remove the judge.
    • To pass the motion, two–thirds of the MPs present and voting in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha;
      • Must approve it, with a majority of more than 50% of the total membership of each House.
    Key Constitutional Provisions
    • Article 124(4): The judge can only be removed by a Presidential order, passed after a majority vote in both Houses of Parliament.
    • The vote must come from two-thirds of the members present and voting.
    • Articles 218 of the Constitution extends the same rules to High Court judges.
    • The impeachment process ensures judicial independence by maintaining a high bar for removal, limiting political influence.
    Grounds for Impeachment
    • A judge of the Supreme Court or High Court can be impeached on two grounds: “proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity” as per the Constitution of India.
    • Further clarified in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, including:
      • Misuse of office
      • Grave offences that undermine the judge’s integrity
      • Contravention of the provisions of the Constitution.
    What does the process entail? Procedure under the Judges Inquiry Act, 1968:

    Initial Step: The impeachment motion must be signed by at least 100 MPs in the Lok Sabha and 50 MPs in the Rajya Sabha.

    Committee Formation: Once the motion is introduced, the Speaker or Chairperson of the respective House forms a three-member inquiry committee:

    1. Headed by the Chief Justice of India or a Supreme Court judge.
    2. The second member is usually a Chief Justice of any High Court.
    3. The third member is a distinguished jurist, appointed by the Speaker or Chairman.

    Inquiry Process: The committee investigates the charges, cross-examines witnesses, and regulates its procedure.
    The committee may also request a medical test if the charge relates to mental incapacity.

    Outcome: If the committee finds the judge not guilty, the motion is dismissed. If found guilty, it will be reported back to the House for further action.

     

    Instances of Impeachment in India:

    • 1993: Justice V Ramaswami (Supreme Court) faced impeachment proceedings on financial impropriety. The motion was unsuccessful despite a guilty finding.
    • 2011: Justice Soumitra Sen (Calcutta High Court) was impeached for corruption but resigned before Lok Sabha could take up the matter.
    • 2015: Justice S K Gangele (Madhya Pradesh High Court) faced impeachment on charges of sexual harassment, but the committee cleared him in 2017.
    • 2015: Justice J B Pardiwala (Gujarat High Court) faced impeachment for controversial remarks about reservation but the motion was dropped after the judge expunged the remarks.
    • 2017: Justice C V Nagarjuna (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana High Court) faced impeachment for financial misconduct and victimizing a Dalit judge, but the motion was not pursued.

     

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating them. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Draft UGC Regulations, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • The University Grants Commission (UGC) released the Draft UGC (Minimum Standards of Instructions in the Award of UG and PG Degrees) 2024 to bring sweeping reforms in India’s higher education sector.
      • The new regulations will apply to all Central, State, Private, and Deemed Universities across India.

    Back2Basics: University Grants Commission (UGC)

    • UGC was inaugurated in 1953 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, then Minister of Education.
    • it was established as a statutory body in November 1956 under the UGC Act 1956.
      • The Sargeant Report (1944) recommended a University Grants Committee, established in 1945, initially handling all universities by 1947.
      • Post-independence, the University Education Commission (1948) under Dr. S Radhakrishnan proposed reorganizing the committee along the lines of the UK’s University Grants Commission.
    • A proposal to replace UGC with the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) is under consideration.
    • UGC handles:
      • Providing funds to higher education institutions.
      • Coordination, determination, and maintenance of academic standards.

     

    About the Draft UGC Regulations, 2024:

    Aims and Objectives
    • To reform India’s higher education system.
    • To introduce flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, and inclusivity in higher education while removing disciplinary rigidities.
    Key Provisions and Features
    • Biannual Admissions: Institutions can admit students twice a year (July/August and January/February).
    • Multiple Entry and Exit: Students can enter or exit their programs multiple times, with continuous assessments, recognition of prior learning, and the possibility to pursue two programs at the same time.
    • Flexibility for Students: Students can choose any discipline for UG and PG programs, irrespective of their background, subject to clearing entrance exams (e.g., CUET or university-specific exams).
    • Minimum Attendance Requirement: Institutions will set the minimum attendance based on program-specific requirements and statutory approvals, in line with the NEP 2020.
    • UG Degree Credits: At least 50% of credits must be earned in the major discipline for an undergraduate degree. The remaining 50% credits can be from skill courses, apprenticeships, or multidisciplinary subjects.
    • Duration of Degrees: UG degrees can be completed in 3 to 4 years, depending on the course structure. PG degrees will typically take 1 to 2 years, though they can be longer or shorter based on the program.
    Accelerated and Extended Degree Programs:
    • ADP (Accelerated Degree Programs): Allows students to complete their degree in a shorter duration while covering the full curriculum.
    • EDP (Extended Degree Programs): Extends the duration for students who need more time to complete the program.
      • Up to 10% of the sanctioned intake can be earmarked for ADP. Students can choose ADP or EDP by the end of the first or second semester.
      • ADP/EDP degrees will include a note specifying the adjusted duration, while ensuring the full academic content is covered.
    • Postgraduate Eligibility: Students completing a four-year undergraduate degree (Hons./Research, BTech, BE) will be eligible for a two-year postgraduate program.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which of the following provisions of the Constitution does India have a bearing on Education?

    1. Directive Principles of State Policy
    2. Rural and Urban Local Bodies
    3. Fifth Schedule
    4. Sixth Schedule
    5. Seventh Schedule

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 3, 4 and 5 only
    (c) 1, 2 and 5 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • [pib] Yuva Sahakar Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Cooperation, in written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha has informed about the progress of the Yuva Sahakar Scheme.

    Current Financial Details:

    • As of 30th November 2024, the following financial assistance details have been recorded:
      • Sanctioned Amount: ₹4734.97 lakh to cooperatives with 18,915 beneficiary members.
      • Disbursed Amount: ₹294.44 lakh.
      • Sanctioned for 2024: ₹230.61 lakh, with ₹89.88 lakh disbursed.

    About the Yuva Sahakar Scheme:

    Details
    Overview and Objectives
    • Launched in 2018 under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
    • Implemented by NCDC (National Cooperative Development Corporation), which operates under the Ministry of Cooperation
    • Goal: To promote the formation of new cooperative societies and encourage innovative ideas from young entrepreneurs.
    • Targets cooperatives that have been operational for at least 3 months.
    NOTE: NCDC was established in 1963 as a statutory Corporation under Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
    Features and Provisions
    • Loan Tenure: Up to 5 years.
    • Interest Subvention: 2% subvention on the applicable interest rate for term loans related to project activities.
    • Subsidy Integration: Loans can be combined with subsidies available under other Government of India schemes.
    • Eligibility: All cooperatives in operation for at least 1 year are eligible for funding based on proposed projects.
    Significance
    • Encourages cooperatives to explore new and innovative areas.
    • Dedicated fund by NCDC for youth cooperatives.
      • Linked to the ₹1000 crore Cooperative Start-up and Innovation Fund (CSIF).
    • Increased funding for cooperatives from North Eastern regions, Aspirational Districts, and those with women, SC/ST, or PwD members.

  • [10th December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: In energy-dependent world, the issue of food security

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) What are the salient features of the National Food Security Act, 2013? How has the Food Security Bill helped in eliminating hunger and malnutrition in India? (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have always focused on ‘Food Security’ (in 2021), ‘conventional energy generation’ (in 2020) and ‘India’s Energy Security’ (in 2017).

    “Food insecurity and energy poverty are critical to ensuring global stability, but addressing them in isolation is inadequate,” cautions the World Bank in its latest climate and development report. The intertwined crises of food and energy security are shaping the course of the 21st century, posing significant threats to global stability. Food production is under pressure from climate change, population growth, and inequality, while energy systems grapple with geopolitical conflicts, aging infrastructure, and a slow shift away from fossil fuels. 

    Today’s editorial explores their deep interconnection and intensifies the challenge: agriculture, vital for humanity, is both a major energy consumer and a driver of climate change.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    In a virtual address at the 5th Energy Finance Conference, it was emphasized that energy-reliant agricultural systems struggle to adapt to climate-induced changes in food production, underscoring their interlinked challenges.

    Impact of Energy Price Fluctuations on Food Production and Security

    • Dependency on Fossil Fuels: Agriculture relies heavily on fossil fuels for mechanization, irrigation, fertilizer production, and transportation. This dependence creates a cycle where rising energy prices lead to increased costs for food production, directly impacting food security.
    • Volatility in Natural Gas Prices: Natural gas is crucial for fertilizer production so fluctuations in its prices can significantly affect fertilizer costs and, consequently, global food prices. For instance, geopolitical actions such as export bans can disrupt supply chains, exacerbating food insecurity in countries reliant on imports.
    • Climate Change Effects: Erratic weather patterns due to climate change further strain agricultural output, putting the livelihoods of billions at risk.
      • Nearly 11.8% of the global population faced severe food insecurity between 2020 and 2023, a figure expected to rise significantly.

    Role of Sustainable Energy in Enhancing Food Security

    • Renewable Energy Investments: The transition to renewable energy presents opportunities for enhancing food security. Investments in renewable technologies can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower operational costs for agricultural practices.
    • Innovative Solutions: Solar-powered irrigation and biomass energy solutions could transform agricultural productivity. However, high costs and inadequate infrastructure limit their adoption in low-income countries where they are needed most.
    • Reducing Vulnerability: Clean energy solutions can help mitigate the vulnerability of food systems to energy price shocks. By integrating renewable energy into agricultural practices, countries can improve resilience against climate-induced disruptions.

    Strategies to Address the Nexus of Water, Energy, and Food Security (Way Forward)

    • Integrated Policy Approaches: A holistic approach that integrates water management with energy and food policies is essential. This includes promoting water-efficient agricultural practices and investing in infrastructure that supports sustainable resource management.
    • Investment in Renewable Technologies: Increasing investments in renewable energy infrastructure can support agricultural productivity while reducing carbon emissions. This includes expanding access to clean energy solutions for rural areas to enhance agricultural efficiency.
    • Financial Support for Vulnerable Communities: Providing financial resources and technical support to low-income nations is crucial for enabling them to transition towards sustainable practices without exacerbating poverty. Targeted investments can help build resilience against climate impacts while ensuring food security.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/in-energy-dependent-world-the-issue-of-food-security/article68966351.ece