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GS Paper: Government Scheme/Policies

  • The woes of pensioners and PF members

    EPFO Pension: EPFO issues FAQs on pension, but no clarity on computation | India News - Times of India

    Central idea 

    The EPFO’s recent clarification on the 2022 Supreme Court verdict regarding higher PF pension has sparked concerns among pensioners due to ambiguity in pension computation methods. Challenges include discrepancies for pre-2014 and post-2014 retirees, with a demand for increased minimum monthly pension.

    Key Highlights:

    • The EPFO’s clarification on the 2022 Supreme Court verdict on higher PF pension has raised concerns among pensioners and PF members.
    • The Court approved higher pension payments with certain conditions, including amendments to the pensionable salary cap and contribution rules.
    • The clarification introduces ambiguity by tying pension computation to the “date of commencement of pension.”

    Key Challenges:

    • Pre-2014 retirees choosing pension post-amendments receive lower pensions due to the calculation based on the average pay of 60 months.
    • Post-2014 retirees face ambiguity and discrepancies in the revised pension amounts, seeking clarity through a worksheet.
    • Lack of incorporation of interest rate component in pension calculations.
    • Long-standing demand to increase the minimum monthly pension beyond ₹1,000, with calls for linking it to the cost of living index.

    Key Terms:

    • EPFO: Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation
    • EPS: Employees’ Pension Scheme
    • Pensionable salary cap: ₹15,000/month
    • Amendments (2014): Raised pensionable salary cap, altered contribution rules, and changed computation basis.
    • Date of commencement of pension: Controversial factor in pension calculation.

    Key Quotes:

    • “There is also a demand for incorporating the component of interest rate… the pension amount would at least see a rise of ₹2,300 per month.” – MP M. Shanmugam
    • “The government’s contributions should increase… to achieve a durable social security system for contributors to the economy.”

    Key Statements:

    • The clarification’s reliance on the “date of commencement of pension” has created confusion and dissatisfaction among pensioners.
    • Ambiguity in post-2014 retirees’ pension calculations prompts the need for a clearer worksheet.

    Way Forward:

    • Address concerns by revisiting the pension computation methodology.
    • Consider increasing the minimum monthly pension, as demanded by various stakeholders.
    • Enhance government contributions to ensure a robust social security system.
    • Provide clear guidelines and a comprehensive worksheet for post-2014 retirees to understand and verify their pension calculations.

  • [pib] PM-AJAY Scheme for Upliftment of SC Community

    Central Idea

    • The Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment recently informed about the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) Scheme during 2023 year-end review.

    About PM-AJAY Scheme

    Details
    Launch Implemented since 2021-22
    Aim To reduce poverty of SC communities through employment generation, skill development, income generation, and infrastructure development.
    Nature 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme
    Components Development of SC dominated villages into ‘Adarsh Gram’

    Grants-in-aid for District/State-level Projects for socio-economic betterment of SCs

    Construction of Hostels in Higher Educational Institutions
    Merged Schemes Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY)

    Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP)

    Babu Jagjivan Ram Chatrawas Yojana (BJRCY)
    Developments in Grants-in-Aid Component Financial assistance enhanced from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000 or 50% of the asset cost, whichever is lesser, for beneficiary/household.

    Web-based portal developed for submission, appraisal, approval, and monitoring of Annual Action Plan.

  • Lapses in the implementation of PM-DevINE Scheme

    Central Idea

    • Only about 10% of the funds under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) have been sanctioned.

    About PM-DevINE Scheme

    Details
    Genesis of PM-DevINE – Introduced in Union Budget 2022-23

    – Approved by the Cabinet on 12th October 2022
    Funding 100% Central funding
    Implementing Ministry Ministry of Development of North-East Region
    Objectives – Infrastructure Development in line with PM GatiShakti

    – Supporting Social Development Projects

    – Empowering Youth and Women in the NER
    Project Implementation State-wise, project-wise list of projects approved for FY 2022-23, tailored to specific state needs

  • Govt aims to set up 17,000 creches under Palna Scheme

    Central Idea

    • The Union Women and Child Development Ministry aims to establish 17,000 creches in Anganwadi centres across the country out of which 5,222 have been approved to date under the ‘Palna’ scheme.

    What is Palna Scheme?

    Details
    Objective To provide quality childcare facilities through Anganwadi-cum-Crèches, enabling women’s participation in the workforce
    Integration Part of the Samarthya sub-component of Mission Shakti, starting from April 2022

    National Creche Scheme (NCS) was revised and subsumed as part of the ‘Palna’ scheme under Mission Shakti.
    Focus Establishing combined Anganwadi and crèche facilities for comprehensive childcare
    Target Demographic Primarily urban areas where family-based childcare support is less available
    Standard Operating Procedure SOP released to outline administrative framework, roles, responsibilities, and monitoring mechanisms

     

    About National Crèche Scheme (NCS)

    Details
    Launch Rajiv Gandhi National Crèche Scheme (RGNCS) launched in 2006;

    From 2017, implemented as the National Crèche Scheme (NCS).
    Legal Provisions MGNREGA;

    Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act 2017.
    Objective To provide daycare facilities for children aged 6 months to 6 years of working mothers
    Target Group Children of working mothers, especially from economically weaker sections of society
    Childcare Services Daycare, supplementary nutrition, early childhood education, health check-ups
    Operational Hours Typically 7 to 8 hours a day, 26 days a month
    Age Group Children aged 6 months to 6 years
    Administration Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India
    Execution Through state governments, NGOs, and community-based organizations

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2019:

    Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017?

    1. Pregnant women are entitled for three months pre-delivery and three months post-delivery paid leave.
    2. Enterprises with creches must allow the mother minimum six creche visits daily.
    3. Women with more than two children get reduced entitlements.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”9dvaju3ugn” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Telecom law upgrades for a digital authoritarian state

    bill: Key features of the Telecommunication Bill, 2023 - The Economic Times

    Central idea 

    The article critiques the recently passed Telecom Bill, emphasizing its nationalistic undertones, potential authoritarian features, and the failure to address the digital divide effectively. It questions the rushed parliamentary process and highlights concerns about corporate favoritism, symbolized by the renaming of the Universal Services Obligation Fund.

    Key Highlights:

    • The tweet by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav announces the passage of the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, and the repeal of The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.
    • The use of the term “Bharat” instead of “India” and crediting the PM’s individual vision are intentional for cultural nativism.

    Key Challenges:

    • The Telecom Bill is criticized for ignoring the persisting digital divide and lacking fresh ideas to address it.
    • Provisions favoring select private firms and potential misuse of regulatory power are highlighted.
    • State control and surveillance powers without defined safeguards raise concerns about privacy and freedom.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • “Digital Bharat Nidhi”: Renaming of Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF) in the Telecom Bill.
    • “Regulatory sandboxes”: Provisions likely to benefit large corporations in the telecom sector.
    • “Authorisation” vs. “Licensing”: The change in terminology with increased severity in the Telecom Act.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Bharat moves on…” – Tweet by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav.
    • “Guess who will soon step into Mobile Satellite Services from India?” – MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on potential favoritism towards private firms.

    Key Statements:

    • The Telecom Bill is criticized for distracting from the digital divide issue and lacking innovative solutions.
    • Concerns raised about potential misuse of regulatory powers and selective favoritism toward private corporations.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Mention of the renaming of USOF as “Digital Bharat Nidhi” in the Telecom Bill.
    • Reference to the allocation of satellite spectrum benefiting the Adani Group.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Stagnation in new telecom users and contraction in smartphone sales, as reported by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India and International Data Corporation.
    • A legal penalty of ₹25,000 for providing false particulars or failing to share information as required by the Telecom Act.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The Telecom Bill is criticized for maintaining colonial architecture, vague definitions, and potential threats to privacy.
    • The rushed passage of the bill without addressing raised concerns reflects an unconstitutional concentration of power.

    Way Forward:

    • Advocate for a thorough review of the Telecom Bill by a Standing Committee to address concerns.
    • Emphasize the need for policies that genuinely bridge the digital divide and promote fair competition in the telecom sector.
    • Encourage transparency, public participation, and safeguards to protect individual rights in telecommunications legislation.

  • Sourcing FCI rice under OMSS to impact retail prices

    Central Idea

    • The Department of Food and Public Distribution has proposed a plan to source rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) for consumer sales.
    • The FCI is providing quality rice under OMSS at a reserve price of ₹29 per kg.

    About Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)

    Details
    Purpose of OMSS To sell government-owned food grains (wheat and rice) in the open market to enhance supply and moderate prices, especially during lean seasons and in deficit regions.
    Implementing Agency Food Corporation of India (FCI)
    Components of OMSS 1. Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.

    2. Sale of wheat through e-auction by dedicated movement.

    3. Sale of Raw Rice Grade ‘A’ to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
    Method of Selling Through e-auction for transparency, conducted weekly using the platform of NCDEX (National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Limited).
    Participants State Governments/Union Territory Administrations and private entities can participate in the e-auction.

    States procure additional food grains through OMSS for distribution under the National Food Security Act,2013 (NFSA).

    Impact on Rice Inflation

    • Current Inflation Rate: The annual inflation rate of rice has been around 12% for the past two years, accumulating over time and raising concerns.
    • Objective: The department aims to reduce this inflation rate and make rice more affordable for consumers.

    Significances of OMSS

    • Enhance the supply of food grains: The OMSS helps to enhance the supply of food grains, especially wheat, during the lean season and moderates the open market prices, especially in deficit regions.
    • Prevent wastage and deterioration of food grains: The OMSS also helps to prevent wastage and deterioration of food grains in FCI godowns due to a lack of storage space and proper maintenance.
    • Provides an alternative source of food grains: The OMSS provides an alternative source of food grains for bulk consumers, state governments, UTs and private parties who participate in various schemes and programmes such as ethanol production under biofuel policy.
    • Generates revenue for the FCI: The OMSS generates revenue for the FCI and reduces its subsidy burden on the central government. The FCI sells food grains under OMSS at pre-determined prices which are higher than the minimum support prices (MSPs) paid to farmers for procurement.

    Challenges faced by OMSS

    • Low demand from the buyers: The OMSS faces low demand from buyers due to high reserve prices fixed by the FCI, which are often above the market prices.
    • Logistical challenges: The OMSS also faces logistical challenges such as transportation, handling and quality issues of food grains, which affect the timely delivery and customer satisfaction. 
    • Limited impact on stabilizing the market prices: The OMSS has a limited impact on stabilizing the market prices as it accounts for a small share of the total food grain supply and demand in the country. 
    • Does not address the structural problems: The OMSS does not address the structural problems of food grain management such as procurement, distribution and buffer stocking policies, which need to be reformed to ensure food security and fiscal prudence. 

    Way forward

    • Revise the reserve prices of food grains: The FCI should revise the reserve prices of food grains under OMSS based on the prevailing market conditions and demand-supply situation to attract more buyers and clear the excess stocks.
    • Improve logistics and quality management: The FCI should improve its logistics and quality management system to ensure timely delivery and good quality of food grains under OMSS. 
    • Diversify product portfolio: The FCI should diversify its product portfolio under OMSS to include coarse grains, pulses and oilseeds, which are also essential for nutrition security and have a higher demand in the market.
    • Coordinate with state governments: The FCI should coordinate with state governments, UTs and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of OMSS and address any grievances or complaints arising from it. 

    Back2basics

    Food Corporation of India (FCI)

    • It is a statutory body set up in 1965 (under the Food Corporation Act, 1964) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India.
    • It was set up against the backdrop of a major shortage of grains, especially wheat, in the country.
    • Currently, FCI is mandated with three basic objectives:
    1. To provide effective price support to farmers;
    2. To procure and supply grains to PDS for distributing subsidised staples to economically vulnerable sections of society; and
    3. Keep a strategic reserve to stabilise markets for basic foodgrains.

  • Tavleen Singh writes: Time to end reservations

    Reservation in India: Advantages & Disadvantages | UPSC - IAS EXPRESS

    Central idea 

    The article argues for the abolition of all reservations in government jobs, universities, and other institutions, contending that the once crucial affirmative action has devolved into a tool for political manipulation. It highlights the failure of reservations to achieve genuine social equality and proposes a voucher system exclusively for historically oppressed groups as an alternative.

    Key Highlights:

    • The author advocates for the abolishment of all reservations in government jobs, universities, schools, the army, and paramilitary forces.
    • Reservation policies, initially introduced for scheduled castes and tribes as a gesture of atonement, have become a tool for political manipulation and failed to achieve social equality.
    • The suggestion to replace reservations with a voucher system for education, exclusively for those historically oppressed, is proposed as an alternative.

    Key Challenges:

    • The political exploitation of caste-based reservations has perpetuated the system beyond its intended purpose, hindering genuine social progress.
    • The reluctance to address the issue stems from its controversial nature, making it difficult for leaders and commentators to openly criticize or advocate for change.

    Key Terms & Phrases:

    • Reservations, Affirmative Action, Caste Census, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Voucher System, Social Equality, Political Exploitation.

    Key Quotes:

    • “When reservations were introduced… it was a vital gesture of atonement for the evil done to lower caste Indians for centuries.”
    • “As a tool for bringing social equality for scheduled castes and tribes, reservations have failed.”
    • “The great Indian dream remains landing a government job.”

    Key Statements:

    • Reservations, initially crucial for affirmative action, have transformed into a political tool, hindering genuine progress.
    • The author urges for the courage to admit the farcical nature of the reservations system and advocates for its abolition.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Reference to Maratha leaders fasting for reservations highlights the misuse of the system by powerful castes.
    • The proposal to replace reservations with a voucher system draws from the need to address historical oppression without political exploitation.

    Key Facts & Data:

    • Dr. Ambedkar initially suggested reservations for ten years, but political motivations led to its continuation.
    • The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of belonging to the OBC category questions the need for reservations for these castes.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The author emphasizes the need for a candid discussion on reservations, calling out its political exploitation and proposing alternatives.
    • The article challenges the prevalent narrative on reservations and highlights the disconnect between the intended purpose and the current reality.

    Way Forward:

    • The article calls for bold leadership to address the reservations issue, suggesting a reevaluation of policies and the implementation of alternative measures to ensure genuine social progress.

  • PM-JANMAN Scheme for PVTGs

    Central Idea

    • The Union Tribal Ministry informed the Rajya Sabha that the population of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) is not declining, contrary to earlier data.
    • The Pradhan Mantri-Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) aims to provide basic facilities to PVTGs, with a significant budget allocation.

    Who are the PVTGs?

    • Definition and Characteristics: PVTGs, formerly known as Primitive Tribal Groups, are identified by criteria like declining population, pre-agrarian technology, economic backwardness, and low literacy.
    • Distribution: Spread across 18 States and Union Territories, India has 75 PVTGs, with the highest numbers in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
    • Historical Context: These groups inhabit remote areas and have historically been among the most vulnerable sections of Scheduled Tribes.

    PM-JANMAN: Objectives and Funding

    • Mission Goals: The mission, announced earlier in the year, focuses on improving infrastructure and basic amenities in PVTG areas.
    • Budget Allocation: The Cabinet approved a ₹24,000 crore package, with contributions from both the central and state governments.
    • Implementation Strategy: The program involves nine ministries and aims to enhance housing, connectivity, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities in PVTG villages.

    Challenges in Implementation

    • Data Gaps: A key challenge is the lack of current and accurate data on PVTG populations and socio-economic conditions.
    • Baseline Surveys: While surveys are being conducted, their results are not yet public, and there has been no separate Census for PVTGs since 1951.
    • Recommendations: The National Advisory Council suggested conducting a specific Census for PVTGs to better understand their needs in education, health, and housing.

    Conclusion

    • Critical Need for Accurate Data: Effective implementation of development projects for PVTGs hinges on having reliable data.
    • Holistic Approach: The government’s initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to improving the living standards of PVTGs, addressing various aspects of their well-being.
    • Continued Monitoring and Evaluation: Ongoing assessment and adaptation of strategies will be crucial to ensure the success of these development efforts for PVTGs.

  • 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.

  • Centre approves fourth phase roll-out of GIAN Scheme

    Central Idea

    • The Ministry of Education is preparing to restart the fourth phase of Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) scheme.

    Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN)

    • The GIAN was initiated in 2015.
    • It is a project under the Ministry of Education.
    • Coordinating Body: IIT Kharagpur
    • Purpose: To harness the expertise of international scientists and entrepreneurs, fostering their involvement with Indian higher education institutions.
    • This initiative aims to enhance India’s academic resources, speed up quality improvements, and raise India’s scientific and technological standards to a globally competitive level.

    Key Components of GIAN

    • Foreign experts receive an honorarium to cover their travel and other expenses.
    • These international experts/faculties conduct short-term courses in Indian institutions.
    • Initially aimed at fostering India-USA collaborations, the program later expanded its reach.
    • Course durations vary, ranging from a minimum of one week to a maximum of three weeks.
    • Foreign experts can receive a total payment of up to US$ 8000 (~ ₹7 lakh) for 12 to 14 hours of teaching and up to US$ 12000 (~ ₹12 lakh) for 20 to 28 hours, covering their travel and honorarium.