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Distribution: yearly

  • Are Crimes against Women on the Rise?

    Central Idea

    • Despite a decline in overall crime rate in 2022, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report highlights a 4% rise in crimes against women.
    • The crime rate dropped to 258.1 per lakh population in 2022 from 268 per lakh in 2021, but crimes against women increased.

    Nature of Crimes Against Women

    • Major Categories: The majority of crimes included:
    1. Cruelty by husband or relatives (31.4%),
    2. Kidnapping and abduction (19.2%),
    3. Assault with intent to outrage modesty (18.7%), and
    4. Rape (7.1%).
    • Dowry Prohibition Act: 13,479 cases were registered under this act.

    Societal and Legal Perspectives

    • Patriarchal Society: Activists and lawyers attribute the rise to deep-rooted patriarchal mind-sets in Indian society.
    • Legal Framework: Key laws for women’s safety include The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, The Dowry Prohibition Act, The Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, and others.
    • Implementation Challenges: Despite strong laws, their effective implementation remains a challenge.

    Interpretation of Increased Crime Registration

    • NCRB Report Findings: Over 4.45 lakh cases of crimes against women were registered in 2022, indicating a high rate of 66.4 crimes per lakh population.
    • Charge Sheet Filing Rate: The rate of filing charge sheets in such cases was 75.8%.
    • Views on Increased Registration: Some experts view the rise as indicative of women’s increased confidence in approaching police, while others see it as a reflection of persistent inequality and societal attitudes.

    Regional Variations in Crime Registration

    • Delhi’s High Crime Rate: With 14,247 cases, Delhi recorded the highest rate of crimes against women at 144.4 per lakh.
    • Contrast with Other Regions: In many parts of India, especially rural areas, crime registration is low, and fear of police is high.

    Challenges in Law Enforcement and Judiciary

    • Policing Issues: There is a lack of trained police officers for investigations, leading to poor charge sheet preparation.
    • Judicial Delays: Cases take years in trial courts, with appeals extending the duration further.
    • Fast-Track Courts: Despite their existence, fast-track courts for grievous crimes are as slow as regular courts.

    Representation of Women in Police Force

    • Low Proportion: Women police officers’ representation in the force is low, leading to disproportionate workloads and slower charge sheeting and convictions.
    • Ministry of Home Affairs Data: As of January 1, 2022, women constituted only 11.7% of the total state police force.

    Conclusion

    • Need for Strong Political Will: Effective policies and programs are required to elevate women’s status and address the root causes of gender-based violence.
    • Improving Law Enforcement and Judiciary: Enhancing police training, increasing women’s representation in the force, and expediting judicial processes are crucial steps.

  • Europe agrees landmark AI Regulation Deal

    AI

    Central Idea

    • European Commissioner Thierry Breton announced on the provisional deal on the world’s first comprehensive AI regulation.
    • Finally, the EU becomes the first continent to set clear rules for AI use, following a long negotiation between the European Parliament and EU member states.

    EU’s AI Legal Framework

    • Safeguards and Restrictions: The legislation includes strict guidelines on AI use by law enforcement and consumer rights to file complaints against violations.
    • Facial Recognition and Manipulation: Strong restrictions are placed on facial recognition technology and AI that manipulates human behavior.
    • Biometric Surveillance: Governments are limited to using real-time biometric surveillance in public areas only under serious threats, like terrorist attacks.
    • Breton’s Vision: The legislation is seen as a launch pad for EU startups and researchers to lead in AI, aiming for technology development that respects safety and rights.

    Details of the EU AI Act

    • Risk-Based Classification: AI applications are divided into four risk classes, ranging from largely banned applications to high-risk and medium-risk categories.
    • High-Risk Applications: Includes AI tools for self-driving cars, subject to certification and public scrutiny.
    • Medium-Risk Applications: Such as generative AI chatbots require detailed documentation and transparency obligations.

    Europe’s Leadership in Tech Regulation

    • Contrast with the US: Europe has led in tech regulation, with laws like GDPR, DSA, and DMA, focusing on privacy and curbing tech majors’ dominance.
    • US Approach: The White House Executive Order on AI and an AI Bill of Rights aim to provide a blueprint for AI regulation.

    Different Approaches to AI Regulation

    • Global Policy Scrutiny: Policymakers worldwide are increasingly focusing on regulating generative AI tools, with concerns over privacy, bias, and intellectual property.
    • EU’s Stringent Stance: The EU adopts a tougher approach, categorizing AI based on invasiveness and risk.
    • UK’s Light-Touch Approach: Aims to foster innovation in AI.
    • US’s Intermediate Position: The US approach lies between the EU and the UK.
    • China’s Regulatory Measures: China has also released its guidelines to regulate AI.

    India’s Approach to AI

    • Focus on Sovereign AI: India emphasizes developing its sovereign AI, particularly for real-life applications in healthcare, agriculture, governance, and language translation.
    • Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Model: India’s DPI approach involves government-sanctioned technology offered to private entities for various use cases.
    • Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar’s Vision: The goal is to leverage AI for economic development, with a focus on Indian startups and companies driving the AI ecosystem.

    Conclusion

    • Worldwide Impact: The EU’s AI Act sets a precedent for global AI regulation, influencing how countries approach AI governance.
    • Balancing Innovation and Regulation: The challenge lies in fostering AI innovation while ensuring ethical use and safeguarding individual rights.

  • In news: Operation Storm Makers II

    Central Idea

    • The Interpol operation Storm Makers II against fraud schemes fuelled by victims of human trafficking has unearthed further evidence that the trend is expanding beyond the Southeast Asian region.

    About Operation Storm Makers II

    • This operation was a special mission organized by Interpol Headquarters in Lyon, France.
    • The operation took place from October 16 to 20.
    • It involved law enforcement in 27 countries across Asia and other regions.

    The operation targeted human trafficking and cyber scams. It resulted in:

    1. Rescue of 149 human trafficking victims
    2. Hundreds of arrests
    3. More than 270,000 inspections and police checks

    Back2Basics: INTERPOL

    Details
    Full Name International Criminal Police Organization
    Member Countries Comprises 195 member countries
    Function Facilitates coordination among police forces globally; shares data on crimes and criminals
    Headquarters Located in Lyon, France
    Global Complex Has a Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore
    Satellite Offices Several regional offices in different parts of the world
    India’s Membership Joined in June 1956
    National Central Bureau (NCB) Each member country has an NCB; in India, it’s under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

    NCBs are the contact points for Interpol’s General Secretariat and other NCBs; run by police officials of the country
    Databases Manages 19 police databases with real-time access to information on crimes and criminals
    Investigative Support Provides forensic, analysis, and assistance in locating fugitives globally
    Red Notice (RN) Issued to alert police worldwide about fugitives wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence; for provisional arrest pending extradition or similar legal action

  • PM Vishwakarma Scheme: Empowering Traditional Craftspeople

    vishwakarma

    Central Idea

    • The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched by the Centre on September 17, has received over 21 lakh applications in two and a half months, data from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) show.

    PM Vishwakarma Scheme

    • The PM Vishwakarma Scheme boasts an impressive allocation of Rs 13,000 crore, fully funded by the Central government.
    • It aims to benefit individuals predominantly from the OBC community engaged in traditional skills and crafts such as carpentry, gold-smithing, masonry, laundry services, and more.
    • The scheme derives its name from Vishwakarma, a revered figure in Hindu mythology known as the architect of the gods.
    • Vishwakarma was the divine carpenter and master craftsman responsible for crafting the gods’ weapons, building their cities and chariots.
    • He is considered the patron deity of workers, artisans, and artists.

    Eligibility for the Scheme

    • Supported Sectors: The PM Vishwakarma Scheme extends assistance to families associated with 18 diverse sectors, including carpentry, boat making, blacksmithing, goldsmithing, pottery, and more.
    • Registration: Vishwakarma workers can register for free through Common Services Centres using the biometric-based PM Vishwakarma portal.

    Features of the Scheme

    • Recognition: Workers will receive recognition through the PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
    • Skill Upgradation: The scheme offers basic and advanced training to enhance skills.
    • Toolkit Incentive: Artisans receive a toolkit incentive of ₹15,000.
    • Credit Support: Collateral-free credit support is provided up to ₹1 lakh (first tranche) and ₹2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
    • Digital Transactions: Incentives for digital transactions and marketing support are available.
    • Knowledge Enhancement: A toolkit booklet, available in 12 Indian languages with accompanying videos, helps workers stay updated on new technologies in their field.
    • Skill Training Stipend: Artisans can benefit from a stipend of Rs 500 for skill training and Rs 1,500 for purchasing modern tools.
    • Coverage: The scheme aims to cover five lakh families in the first year and 30 lakh families over five years.
    • Global Integration: It also seeks to integrate Vishwakarma into domestic and global value chains.

    Need for such scheme

    • Traditional craftsmen and skilled artisans, often taught these crafts by family elders, have encountered several hurdles.
    • These include a lack of professional training, access to modern tools, geographical remoteness from relevant markets, and limited capital for investment.

  • Expulsion of MP from Lok Sabha

    MP expulsion mahua moitra

    Central Idea: Expulsion of Mahua Moitra

    • A Member of Parliament from West Bengal was expelled from the Lok Sabha over allegations of a cash-for-query scandal.
    • Her expulsion highlights the importance of maintaining strict ethical standards and parliamentary etiquette in legislative proceedings.

    Parliamentary Etiquette and Rules

    • Expected Conduct of MPs: MPs must adhere to rules of parliamentary etiquette, such as not interrupting speeches, maintaining silence, and avoiding obstruction during debates.
    • Updated Rules for Modern Protests: In 1989, rules were updated to include prohibitions against shouting slogans, displaying placards, tearing documents, and using electronic devices for protest in the House.
    • Rajya Sabha’s Similar Rules: The Rajya Sabha, like the Lok Sabha, has similar rules to ensure smooth conduct of proceedings.

    Power of Suspension in Parliament

    • Presiding Officer’s Authority: The presiding officer of each House can direct an MP to withdraw from the chamber for disorderly conduct, resulting in absence for the day.
    • Naming and Suspension Process: MPs obstructing House business can be “named” by the presiding officer, leading to a possible suspension motion by the Parliamentary Affairs Minister.
    • Duration of Suspension: Suspensions can last until the end of the session.

    Legal Recourse: Approaching the Supreme Court

    • Option for Judicial Review: The expelled MP has the option to challenge the expulsion in the Supreme Court, as explained by former Lok Sabha Secretary General P D T Achary.
    • Constitutional Provisions: Article 122 of the Constitution provides immunity to parliamentary proceedings from judicial scrutiny based on procedural irregularity.
    • Scope for Judicial Review: Despite this immunity, the Supreme Court in the 2007 Raja Ram Pal case clarified that judicial review is possible in cases of substantive or gross illegality.

    The Raja Ram Pal Case (2007)

    • Case Background: Raja Ram Pal, a BSP leader, was among 12 MPs expelled in the 2005 cash-for-query scam.
    • Supreme Court’s Stance: The Court upheld the expulsion but noted that proceedings tainted by substantial illegality are open to judicial scrutiny.
    • Judicial Review of Parliamentary Actions: The Court affirmed its role in scrutinizing legislative actions that infringe on fundamental rights.

    Article 105 of the Constitution

    • Powers and Privileges of Parliament: Article 105 deals with the powers, privileges, and immunities of Parliament and its Members.
    • Judicial Scrutiny of Privilege Enforcement: The Court recognized that the enforcement of privilege by the legislature can be subject to judicial review, within certain constitutional limits.

    Grounds for Challenging Expulsion

    • Examining Privilege and Procedure: The court can scrutinize whether the privilege cited for expulsion existed and if proper procedures were followed.
    • Functioning of Committees: The roles of the Privileges Committee and Ethics Committee are distinct, focusing on investigating misconduct and ensuring dignity in the House.
    • Investigative Procedures: Proper investigative procedures, including the right to depose and cross-examine, are essential for fairness and truth-finding.

    Determining Offense and Punishment

    • Article 20 of the Constitution: This article stipulates that punishment requires an existing law defining the act as an offense.
    • Case-Specific Issues: In the case of the expelled MP, issues like sharing Parliament login-passwords and accepting money for questions are examined for rule violations.
    • Breach of Privilege and Inquiry: Accepting money for asking questions in Parliament is a breach of privilege warranting inquiry by the Privileges Committee.

    Conclusion

    • Ongoing Debate and Implications: The case continues to spark debate on the limits of parliamentary privilege, the role of the judiciary, and the ethical standards expected of elected representatives.
    • Balancing Authority and Rights: The expulsion case underscores the delicate balance between parliamentary authority and the rights of its members.
    • Importance of Judicial Oversight: The potential for judicial review emphasizes the importance of legal oversight in maintaining democratic principles and fairness in legislative processes.

  • Specie in news: Mauritian Dodo

    Mauritian Dodo

    Central Idea

    • Mauritian authorities are now working to resurrect the human-caused extinct bird ‘Dodo’.

    About Mauritian Dodo

    Details
    Scientific Name Raphus cucullatus
    Physical Characteristics Large, flightless bird; about 1 meter tall, weighing 10-18 kg; large beak, stubby wings.
    Habitat Endemic to Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean; lived in forests and possibly coastal areas.
    Discovery and Extinction Discovered by Dutch Colonist in late 16th century; extinct by the late 17th century, last sighting around 1662.
    Causes of Extinction Human hunting and introduced species like rats, pigs, and monkeys.
    Diet Likely fruits, nuts, seeds, bulbs, and possibly small animals.
    Behavior Exhibited no fear of humans due to lack of natural predators.
    Cultural Impact Symbol of extinct and endangered species; featured in the phrase “as dead as a dodo.”
    Representation Depicted in literature and art, notably in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.”

    Science of De-Extinction

    • Genetic Blueprint: The first step in de-extinction is obtaining a complete and accurate genome of the species.
    • Genome Sequencing: Paleo-geneticists have successfully sequenced the dodo’s genome using DNA from a museum specimen.
    • Comparative Genomics: The dodo’s genome is being compared with that of its closest extinct and extant relatives to identify unique dodo traits.

    Process of Resurrecting

    • Editing Genetic Material: The project involves editing the primordial germ cells (PGCs) of the Nicobar pigeon, the dodo’s closest living relative, to express dodo traits.
    • Interspecies Surrogacy: These edited PGCs will be inserted into chicken embryos, with chickens acting as interspecies surrogates to potentially birth a dodo offspring.
    • Physical Resemblance: The aim is to create a bird physically indistinguishable from historical accounts of the dodo.

    Challenges and Concerns

    • Scientific Hurdles: Experts emphasize the complexity of recreating a species and the time required for selective breeding to achieve dodo-like characteristics.
    • Habitat Restoration: Mauritius’ transformed landscape poses challenges for reintroducing the dodo, necessitating the control or removal of invasive species.
    • Alternative Habitats: The project considers reintroducing dodos to more pristine, uninhabited islands like Round Island and Aigrettes.

    Motivations behind the Project

    • Ecosystem Restoration: Reintroducing the dodo could help restore mutualistic relationships in Mauritius’ ecosystem, particularly in seed dispersal.
    • Conservation Technology: The techniques developed could aid in conserving and restoring other endangered avian species.
    • Symbolic Value: The project is driven by a desire to create ‘conservation optimism’, using the dodo as a symbol of hope in the face of human-caused extinctions.

  • Advisory issued against drug ‘Meftal’

    Central Idea

    • Pharma standard body Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert for commonly used painkiller mefenamic acid, popularly sold under the brand name Meftal.

    What is Meftal used for?

    • Meftal 500, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is usually prescribed in treatment for conditions like menstrual pain, headache, muscle, joint, or dental pain.
    • It has been advised to take the table with food.
    • The most common side effects of the medicine include mild vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, headache, and dizziness.

    What does the alert against Meftal say?

    • IPC stated that a preliminary analysis of adverse drug reactions from the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) database revealed drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome.
    • DRESS, also known as drug induced hypersensitivity syndrome, is an adverse drug reaction that can even be life threatening.
    • It may cause damage to several organs, especially to the kidneys, heart, lungs, and pancreas.
    • The mortality rate is high and is about 10 per cent.

    Back2Basics: Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC)

    Details
    Establishment 1956,

    An autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
    Primary Objective To promote public health by setting and updating standards for drug quality in India.
    Key Publication Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP), a legally recognized book of drug standards.
    Role in Drug Regulation Standards set in the IP are enforceable by law, crucial for India’s drug regulatory framework.
    International Recognition Collaborates with WHO and aligns with global drug standards.
    Pharmacovigilance Program Involved in monitoring and analyzing adverse drug reactions through the PvPI.
    Quality Control & Training Engages in drug quality control and provides training to regulatory bodies and the pharmaceutical industry.
    Publication Updates Periodically updates the IP to include new drugs and revise existing standards.
    Collaboration Works with the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and regulatory bodies.
    Global Harmonization Aims to harmonize the IP with international pharmacopoeias like the USP and BP.

  • Why Parliament passed the Advocates Amendment Bill?

    Central Idea

    • The primary aim of the recent legislative changes is to eliminate ‘touts’ from the legal system and streamline legal practice in India.
    • The Legal Practitioners Act, 1879, a colonial-era law, and the Advocates Act, 1961, have been central to the regulation of legal practitioners in India.
    • The Bill repeals the 1879 Act and amends the 1961 Act to reduce redundant laws and repeal obsolete ones.

    The Legal Practitioners Act, 1879

    • Inception and Scope: Enacted in 1880, it aimed to consolidate the law relating to legal practitioners in certain Indian provinces.
    • Definition of Legal Practitioner: The Act defined legal practitioners as advocates, vakils, or attorneys of any High Court.
    • Introduction of ‘Tout’: A significant aspect was the definition of ‘tout’, referring to individuals who procure clients for legal practitioners for remuneration.

    The Advocates Act, 1961

    • Consolidation of Legal Practice Laws: This Act was enacted to unify and amend laws relating to legal practitioners and establish Bar Councils and an All-India Bar.
    • Pre-1961 Legal Framework: Previously, legal practitioners were governed by multiple acts, including the 1879 Act.
    • Law Commission and All-India Bar Committee Recommendations: Post-independence, reforms were suggested by the Law Commission and the All-India Bar Committee, leading to the 1961 Act.

    The Advocates Amendment Bill, 2023

    • New Provisions: The Bill introduces a new section (Section 45A) in the 1961 Act, focusing on illegal practice and the regulation of touts.
    • Punishment for Illegal Practice: It prescribes imprisonment for persons illegally practicing in courts and other authorities.
    • Regulation of Touts: The Bill empowers High Courts and district judges to frame and publish lists of touts, ensuring due process before inclusion.
    • Penalties for Touts: It includes provisions for punishing individuals acting as touts with imprisonment, fines, or both.

    Rationale and Implications

    • Streamlining Legal Enactments: The Bill aims to reduce superfluous laws and repeal those that have become obsolete.
    • Government’s Policy on Obsolete Laws: In line with the government’s policy to repeal outdated pre-independence Acts, the Bill seeks to modernize legal practice regulations.
    • Consultation with Bar Council of India: The amendments were made in consultation with the Bar Council of India, reflecting a collaborative approach to legal reform.

    Conclusion

    • Addressing Legal System Complexities: The Bill addresses long-standing issues in the legal system, particularly the exploitation of legal complexities by touts.
    • Balancing Tradition and Modern Needs: By repealing outdated laws and amending existing ones, the Bill balances the need to respect legal traditions with the demands of contemporary legal practice.
    • Future Outlook: These changes are expected to enhance the integrity and efficiency of legal practice in India, contributing to a more transparent and accessible legal system.

  • Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) and Its Implications

    Central Idea

    • The Odisha Government invoked its Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (ESMA) prohibiting strikes by paramedical staff, including nurses, pharmacists and technicians to ensure that medical services are not disrupted.

    About Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA)

    • Description: The Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) is a significant piece of legislation enacted by the Parliament in 1968.
    • Constitutional Placement: It falls under list no. 33 in the 7th schedule under the concurrent list of the Indian Constitution.
    • Purpose: ESMA is primarily used by states to manage strikes by employees, especially in essential services.
    • Essential Services: The Act empowers the government to designate any economic activity or service as ‘essential’, where disruption would impact the normal life of people.

    Provisions and Powers under ESMA

    • Police Authority: The Act grants police the authority to arrest protestors without a warrant if they violate the provisions of ESMA.
    • State-Specific Provisions: Each Indian state has its unique version and provisions of the ESMA.

    Right to Strike in Context

    • Worker’s Basic Right: Striking is a fundamental means for workers to legitimately promote and defend their economic and social interests.
    • Legal Status: While the right to protest is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution, the right to strike is a legal right with certain restrictions.
    • Industrial Dispute Act 1947: This act outlines the legal framework and restrictions for strikes, especially in public sectors and essential services.
    • Restrictions in Specific Sectors: Strikes are particularly restricted for public sector employees, banking, oil, metropolitan transport, and education sectors under state jurisdiction.

    International Labor Organization (ILO) and the Right to Strike

    • ILO’s Stance: The ILO’s Committee on Freedom of Association has established principles regarding the right to strike.
    • Essential Services Definition: Essential services are those whose interruption could endanger the life, safety, or health of part or all of the population.
    • Examples of Essential Services: The committee identifies sectors like hospitals, electricity, water supply, telephone services, and air traffic control as essential services.
    • Restriction on Strikes: Employees in these essential services are generally not permitted to strike.

    Problems and Criticisms of ESMA

    • Irresponsible Use: The Act has been criticized for its sometimes irresponsible and unwise implementation.
    • Suppression of Democratic Rights: ESMA is seen as monopolizing power and suppressing the democratic rights of stakeholders, particularly the right to protest or strike.
    • Government’s Overpowering Role: Critics argue that ESMA dangerously skews the balance in industrial relations towards the government in the public sector.

    Conclusion

    • Debate on ESMA’s Role: The Essential Services Maintenance Act remains a contentious topic, balancing the need for uninterrupted essential services with the rights of workers to strike.
    • Need for Responsible Implementation: Responsible and democratic application of ESMA is crucial to maintain this balance.
    • Ongoing Discussions: The Act continues to spark debate about the extent of government power and the protection of workers’ rights in essential sectors.

  • Specie in news: Megamouth Shark

    Megamouth Shark

    Central Idea

    • In a historic moment for marine biology, a pregnant megamouth shark, a rare and elusive deepwater species, was discovered washed up on a beach in the Philippines.
    • This is only the 60th ever seen and the first ever observed to be pregnant.

    About Megamouth Shark

    Details
    Scientific Name Megachasma pelagios
    Discovery First discovered in 1976 off the coast of Hawaii.
    Appearance Large mouth, bulbous head, rubbery lip, dark grey/black body with a white underbelly.
    Size Up to 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length.
    Diet Filter feeder, consuming plankton, jellyfish, and small fish.
    Habitat Deepwater species, found at depths of 150 to 1,000 meters (490 to 3,280 feet).
    Behavior Rarely seen, swims with mouth open to filter food.
    Reproduction Presumed to be ovoviviparous, but details are largely unknown.
    Distribution Wide but rare distribution in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
    Conservation Status Least Concerned (IUCN)
    Scientific Interest Valued for its unique anatomy and role in the deep-sea ecosystem.