Q) “Though women in post-independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and the feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women’s education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘social attitude towards women’ (2021) and ‘sexual violence against women’ (2014).
On November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we are reminded that nearly one in three women worldwide has faced violence by men. While men are often responsible, they can also help create change. This requires rethinking ideas of masculinity based on dominance and promoting equality, kindness, and non-violence instead.
Today’s Editorial focuses on issues related to women and key initiatives taken by the government to address the issues. This content will help answer the writing of GS mains papers.
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Why in the News?
UNESCO has a program aimed at changing how men understand and support gender equality, and it is making good progress.
What is UNESCO’s Transforming MENtalities initiative?
The Transforming MENtalities initiative by UNESCO aims to engage men and boys as active participants in promoting gender equality and combating violence against women. This initiative recognizes that traditional notions of masculinity often perpetuate harmful behaviors and attitudes that contribute to gender-based violence.
Key objectives:
•Challenging Stereotypes: The initiative seeks to redefine masculinity, moving away from traits associated with dominance and aggression towards those promoting empathy, respect, and equality. •Education and Awareness: It emphasizes the importance of education in reshaping boys’ perceptions of gender roles from an early age. •Community Engagement: Encouraging men to participate in community programs that advocate for gender equality and support survivors of violence.
What are the gender issues in India?
Gender-Based Violence: Nearly one-third of women in India have experienced physical or sexual violence, as reported by the National Family Health Survey-5. This highlights the pervasive issue of gender-based violence that affects women’s safety and well-being across the country.
Economic Participation: India has achieved only 36.7% parity in economic participation and opportunity, according to the Global Gender Gap Report 2023. While female labor force participation increased from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 37% in 2022-23, it remains significantly lower than male participation rates.
Educational Disparities: Despite efforts to improve access to education, significant gaps persist. Cultural norms and economic constraints continue to hinder girls’ enrollment, retention, and completion rates in schools, affecting their long-term opportunities.
Political Representation: Women hold 15.1% of parliamentary seats in India, reflecting a gender parity of 25.3% in political empowerment. However, local governance shows better representation with women comprising 44.4% of local council seats, indicating progress at grassroots levels.
Health Indicators: The Maternal Mortality Ratio in India has improved to 97 per lakh live births (2018-20), showing progress towards the Sustainable Development Goal target of 70 by 2030. However, disparities in health outcomes remain, particularly influenced by socio-economic factors and access to healthcare services.
What are the steps taken by the government?
•Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Launched in 2015, this campaign aims to combat female feticide and promote the education and empowerment of girls through awareness campaigns, financial incentives for families, and initiatives addressing gender-based violence. •One Stop Centre (OSC) Scheme: Established in 2015, OSCs provide comprehensive support services for women affected by violence, including medical, legal, and counseling assistance, along with temporary shelter. •Nirbhaya Fund: Created to enhance women’s safety, this fund supports various initiatives aimed at preventing violence against women and ensuring their security across the country. •Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK): This initiative focuses on empowering rural women through skill development and employment opportunities, helping them become self-reliant and economically independent. •Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): This scheme facilitates financial support for women entrepreneurs to start their businesses, promoting economic empowerment and encouraging women’s participation in the workforce.
Way forward:
Promote Inclusive Education and Awareness: Strengthen gender-sensitive education from an early age to challenge stereotypes, reshape societal attitudes, and instill values of equality, empathy, and mutual respect.
Enhance Implementation of Policies: Ensure effective enforcement of existing gender-focused schemes and laws, while fostering community-driven initiatives that engage men and boys as allies in promoting gender equality and combating violence.
South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a Chhattisgarh-based subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL) has established a Post-Retirement Benefit (PRB) Cell.
About Coal India Limited (CIL)
Coal India Limited (CIL) was founded in 1975 and is the world’s largest coal producer.
It is a ‘Maharatna’ public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India.
CIL operates through 8 subsidiaries, including South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), and Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), which is its largest coal-producing subsidiary.
It supplies 78% of India’s total coal production, supporting more than 50% of the country’s coal-based power capacity.
CIL operates across 8 Indian states, managing 84 mining areas and a total of 313 active mines.
What are the aims and objectives?
Provide a centralized platform for retired employees to access all post-retirement benefits and services under one roof.
Simplify and expedite the resolution of issues related to pensions, provident funds, medical benefits, and other entitlements.
Eliminate the need for retirees to coordinate with multiple departments, minimizing delays and miscommunication.
Reinforce Mission Sambandh, SECL’s initiative to build stronger connections and improve communication with stakeholders.
What are the key benefits of the PRB Cell?
Acts as a one-stop solution for all post-retirement benefit queries and services.
Consolidates services like pensions, medical benefits, and financial queries, making it convenient for retirees.
Dedicated personnel ensure faster response times and seamless service delivery.
Officers from key departments, including Personnel, Finance, and Medical, are stationed at the PRB Cell to provide specialized support.
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following statements:
Coal sector was nationalised by the Government of India under Indira Gandhi.
Now, coal blocks are allocated on lottery basis.
Till recently, India imported coal to meet the shortages of domestic supply, but now India is self-sufficient in coal production.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
PYQ Relevance: Q) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC CSE 2016) Q)Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Demographic Dividend’ (2016) and ‘Literacy Issues in India’ (2021 & 2024).
The 2021 Youth Report highlighted that 36% of youth consider unemployment their primary concern, followed by 16% citing poverty. These economic issues create significant obstacles for youth aspiring to take on leadership roles.
Today’s Editorial explores how educational institutions, community programs, and innovative initiatives can cultivate leadership among the youth, preparing them to tackle future challenges. This content can be used while writing your answers based on Population issues, Literacy and Employment Issues in the Indian Youth.
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Why in the News?
Every year on January 12, India celebrates National Youth Day to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
This year, the Prime Minister will participate in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, aimed at engaging youth in the nation’s development.
In line with India’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the festival has incorporated workshops, seminars and cultural activities that align with the vision of a greener, more inclusive, future.
What are the key areas of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025?
The dialogue is a four-stage competition aimed at engaging and empowering youth in India’s development. • Evaluation Criteria is based on the submissions are assessed based on originality, knowledge, creativity, leadership, and communication skills. The finale provides a unique opportunity for participants to influence national policy and contribute to India’s vision of a Viksit Bharat. • Viksit Bharat Quiz: Conducted digitally on the My Bharat platform, this stage tests participants’ knowledge of India’s achievements and challenges related to sustainable development, technology, and national policies. • Essay and Blog Writing: Top scorers from the quiz advance to write essays or blogs on themes like “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Youth for Viksit Bharat,” focusing on their vision for India’s future. • Vision Pitch Deck: Participants present innovative development ideas at the State level through a compelling pitch deck, with the best teams moving forward.
The 2025 National Youth Festival will feature:
• Workshops and panels on leadership and innovation: With a focus on recent and emerging topics it will equip participants with the skills necessary to drive change in their communities. • Cultural programmes: The festival will celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, theatre, and folk art performances. • Tech and innovation showcase: It will include exhibitions and presentations from young tech innovators and entrepreneurs who are building solutions to real-world problems in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and urban development. (included with expanded virtual participation) • Engagement with leaders: The direct engagement between youth and key leaders as pathbreakers from various sectors, which include government, business and academia will provide participants with insights into leadership, governance, and the path to national progress. • Recognition of youth contributions: Awards and recognitions will be presented to young individuals and organisations.
By focusing on these areas inclusively, India can cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to address the nation’s challenges.
What are the barriers preventing youth from participating in leadership opportunities?
Lack of Representation: Minimal youth representation in decision-making bodies, such as government and political parties, leads to a disconnect between young voices and policy-making.
For example, our youth representation in decision-making bodies is minimal, with less than 1.5% of Lok Sabha MPs under Age 30.
Financial Barriers: A notable 60% of students pursuing higher education come from families earning less than Rs. 5 lakh annually, indicating that many youth face financial challenges that limit their access to educational and leadership opportunities. (Youth Report 2021)
Age-Related Biases: Societal biases against younger individuals in positions of authority discourage them from seeking leadership roles.
Limited Resources and Mentorship: Many young people lack access to mentorship and resources necessary for developing leadership skills (particularly women and less abled people), especially in rural areas.
Recent Government Initiative:
•Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat): It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, plays an instrumental role in shaping and guiding the direction of the National Youth Festival. • As a platform that empowers youth by promoting engagement, knowledge sharing, and participation in nation-building activities, it is crucial in curating the festival’s programmes and ensuring that they align with the aspirations of India’s youth.
“Give me one hundred ‘believing’ young men… I will transform India as the number one nation in the entire world….” — Swami Vivekanand
In what ways can educational institutions contribute to nurturing future leaders?
Structured Leadership Development Programs: Institutions can implement tailored leadership programs that focus on skill development, strategic visioning, and adaptive leadership.
For example, the UGC has approved guidelines for such programs in higher education institutions.
Experiential Learning Opportunities: Programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experiences can enhance leadership skills.
For example, initiatives like the EdLEAP program at IIM Calcutta focus on contemporary management practices.
Mentorship and Peer Learning: Establishing mentorship frameworks and peer learning communities can foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among aspiring leaders.
For example, the programs like the Primary Leadership Development Program (PLDP) in Delhi emphasize continuous learning and improvement.
Focus on Inclusivity and Diversity: Institutions should promote inclusivity by encouraging diverse participation in leadership roles, ensuring that underrepresented groups have access to leadership training and opportunities. This approach helps create a more equitable environment for developing future leaders.
The sex ratio at birth in Haryana, which reached a peak of 923 in 2019, declined to 910 in 2024, marking an eight-year low.
What is the present sex ratio in India?
As of January 2025, the sex ratio at birth in India is approximately 933 females per 1,000 males.
World Bank
Why Historically has there been an Imbalance in the Sex Ratio in India?
Historically, India has faced a skewed sex ratio primarily due to cultural preferences for male children, leading to practices such as female foeticide. The sex ratio was recorded at 943 females per 1,000 males during the 2011 Census. Factors contributing to this imbalance include:
Cultural Preference for Sons: Societal norms often favour male children, viewing them as economic assets while daughters are seen as financial burdens due to dowry practices.
Female Foeticide: The availability of prenatal sex determination technologies has led to sex-selective abortions, contributing to the skewed ratio.
Economic Factors: Families may prefer fewer children and opt for sons to secure lineage and support in old age.
What are the Government Initiatives to Improve the Sex Ratio?
The Indian government has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the sex ratio:
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Campaign: Launched in 2015, this campaign focuses on preventing female foeticide and promoting the welfare of girls.
Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (PNDT Act): Enforced to curb sex-selective abortions and promote gender equality.
Financial Incentives: Programs such as providing financial assistance at the birth of a girl child (e.g., Rs 21,000) encourage families to value daughters.
Education and Awareness Programs: Efforts are made to improve female education and reduce dropout rates among girls, which are crucial for long-term improvements in gender equality.
Way forward:
Strengthen Law Enforcement and Monitoring: Ensure strict implementation of the PCPNDT Act with increased vigilance and swift action against violations.
Address Cultural and Economic Barriers: Launch targeted campaigns to challenge patriarchal norms, promote gender equality, and incentivise families to raise daughters.
Mains PYQ:
Q Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for women? Give your arguments.(UPSC IAS/2014)
Rashtrapati Bhavan’s revamped “At Home” reception for the 75th Indian Republic now includes a box of GI Tagged handcrafted items from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh along with the invitation card.
About the GI Tagged products crafted for the Invittees
The curated box features a variety of handcrafted items with Geographical Indication (GI) tags and sourced from the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative:
Bamboo Weave Box: Decorated with Kalamkari paintings crafted by Nimmalakunta artisans from Andhra Pradesh.
Ikat-Pochampalli Cover: Reusable even after dismantling the box.
Mysore Ganjifa Fridge Magnet: Inspired by the intricate art seen in traditional Ganjifa playing cards.
Kanjeevaram Silk Pouch: Handcrafted in Tamil Nadu.
Etikopakka Dolls: Male and female wooden dolls from Andhra Pradesh.
Screwpine Leaf Bookmark: Woven by artisans from Kerala.
What is the One District One Product (ODOP)?
ODOP initiative is a flagship scheme designed to foster balanced regional development, enhance local economic potential, and promote employment generation by focusing on a unique product from each district.
Originally launched by the Uttar Pradesh Government in January 2018, it was later adopted nationwide by the Central Government.
It is managed by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and coordinated with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Districts as Export Hubs initiative.
It is centrally sponsored, with funding shared between the Central and State Governments in a 60:40 ratio.
Prime Minister has inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention. The theme for this year was the “Diaspora’s contribution to a Viksit Bharat”.
About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event organized by the Ministry of External Affairs to honor the achievements and contributions of Indians living abroad.
This celebration is held every two years on January 9, marking the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi, regarded as the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa to lead the country’s freedom movement.
Since 2015, the event has been held biennially, with theme-based conferences organized during the intervening years.
The location of the convention changes to showcase the progress and diversity of different regions in India.
Who are the Girmitiyas?
The Girmitiyas were indentured laborers from British India who were transported during the 19th and early 20th centuries to work on plantations in various countries.
The term “Girmitiyas” originates from the Indian pronunciation of the English word “agreement”, referencing the contracts they signed.
The Girmitiyas were sent to places such as Fiji, Mauritius, Seychelles, Reunion, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, British Guiana (now Guyana), Suriname, Malaysia, and Kenya.
These laborers were bound by contracts, called Girmits (agreements), which required them to work for a single employer at a fixed wage for a period of 3 to 5 years.
Contributions of the Indian Diaspora
Economic Contributions: In 2024, India received $129.1 billion in remittances, accounting for 14.3% of global remittances. This inflow has been a vital source of economic support.
Professional Contributions: Over 73% of Indian-Americans are employed in high-skill sectors such as STEMM, business, law, and academia. The diaspora acts as a bridge between India and global markets, facilitating skill transfer, trade, and foreign direct investment.
Cultural and Soft Power: The Indian diaspora serves as cultural ambassadors, promoting traditions such as Bollywood, Yoga, and festivals like Diwali.
Global Presence: The Indian diaspora is spread across the globe, with 31.3 million people residing in countries such as the United States, UAE, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia.
PYQ:
[2020] ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples.
[2017] The Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South East Asian countries economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South-East Asia in this context.
Q) Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanisms for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss (UPSC CSE 2017) Q)The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability. Comment. (UPSC CSE 2022)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (2022), and ‘Morals of Welfare State’ in (2021).
PwDs (Persons with Disabilities) face stigma, discrimination, and neglect, due to prejudice and socio-psychological and cultural reasons, despite the Constitutional guarantee of equality of all citizens. Only about 35.29% of children with disabilities have access to schools, and approximately 55% of disabled individuals in India are illiterate, which severely limits their employment opportunities and social participation.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the urgent need for accessibility rules that are grounded in fundamental principles. This content can be used for representing a framework that is not only comprehensive but also clear and actionable, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, can access services and environments effectively.
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Why in the News?
The Supreme Court, in the case of Rajive Raturi v. Union of India (2024), ruled that Rule 15 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Rules, 2017, violates the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
The Court found that Rule 15 was written in a discretionary manner, contrasting with the mandatory language of relevant sections in the Act, which obligate the government to ensure accessibility.
Significance of the Present Ruling:
• The present Rajive Raturi v. Union of India (2024) ruling is crucial as Rule 15 underpins various accessibility guidelines from different ministries, such as housing and transportation. • By declaring Rule 15 ultra vires, the Court effectively nullified the statutory authority of the existing guidelines and mandated the government to establish minimum mandatory accessibility requirements within three months. Rule 15 of the Act states that the appropriate government shall designate one or more authorities to mobilize the community and create social awareness to support persons with disabilities in the exercise of their legal capacity. • The judgment highlights a significant oversight in how accessibility guidelines have been developed without a unified framework, calling for a shift towards principle-based rules that ensure comprehensive and inclusive access for all individuals.
What are the provisions under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016?
• The Act aims to ensure that all PwDs can lead their lives with dignity, without discrimination and with equal opportunities. • It was enacted to give effect to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) of 2007, to which India is a signatory. The key provisions of the Act are as follows: • PwD refers to a person with long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which, in interaction with barriers, hinders his full and effective participation in society equally with others. • It recognises 21 types of disabilities including acid attack victims, intellectual disability, mental illness, etc. • State governments are responsible for ensuring PwDs enjoy the right to equality, life with dignity and respect. It ensures their protection from abuse, cruelty, inhuman treatment, violence and exploitation, etc. Other rights include the right to home and family, reproductive right, accessibility in voting, the right to own or inherit property. • It refers to a person with at least 40% of a specified disability, whether defined in measurable terms or not as certified by the relevant authority. • If a PwD cannot make legally binding decisions even with support, a limited guardian may be appointed. The District Court or designated authority may also grant total support to the person if needed. • The Act mandates the government to formulate necessary programmes to safeguard the rights of PwDs for an adequate standard of living to enable them to live independently or in the community.
How is the idea of Accessibility pursued?
Accessibility is recognized as a fundamental right under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It establishes standardized accessibility measures that must be integrated from the outset in various environments.
Reasonable accommodation, on the other hand, acts as a facilitator of equality by addressing specific challenges faced by individuals in particular contexts. It tailors solutions to meet unique needs, ensuring that all individuals can participate fully.
Both concepts are interdependent; accessibility lays the groundwork, while reasonable accommodation provides necessary adjustments for those who still encounter barriers.
The notion of accessibility is dynamic, evolving with technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things. This evolution necessitates continuous updates to digital accessibility tools to enhance inclusivity.
The Rajive Raturi case emphasized that existing guidelines often set long-term goals without immediate minimum standards. A phased approach is needed, where accessibility thresholds are gradually raised over time, similar to Canada’s roadmap for achieving full accessibility by 2040.
What are the barriers to Accessibility?
Definition: The RPwD Act defines barriers broadly, including both tangible (infrastructure) and intangible (attitudinal) obstacles. Recognizing attitudinal barriers is crucial for fostering a more inclusive society.
As societal understanding of disability evolves, so too must the parameters for accessibility. This includes acknowledging that disability can arise from various situations beyond permanent impairments, such as temporary injuries or age-related challenges.
Universal Design Principles: The concept of universal design has expanded to encompass not just PwDs but all vulnerable groups, including women, children, and the elderly. This shift reflects a broader understanding that disability is not merely an individual limitation but often a result of environmental factors.
What is the significance of compliance with Social Audit under the RPwD Act?
Section 48 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 mandates that both Central and State governments conduct regular social audits of all general schemes and programs to ensure they meet the needs of persons with disabilities (PwDs).
• Accountability: Social audits help identify bottlenecks in the delivery of services, assess the effectiveness of assistance technologies provided to PwDs, and adapt to their changing needs. • Service Improvement: By evaluating existing schemes, social audits can lead to better device provision and more effective support systems for individuals with disabilities.
What are the challenges in Implementation?
Lack of Standardized Guidelines: Currently, there are no clear guidelines under the RPwD Rules regarding the scope and methodology for conducting social audits. This absence leads to inconsistencies between the Centre and States, a lack of awareness among stakeholders, and insufficient training for auditors.
For instance, a sporting complex has multiple guidelines for accessibility from the Ministry of Urban Affairs and Housing, Sports, Transport, and others.
Need for Clarity: Establishing clear operational guidelines for social audits is essential to effectively identify evolving disability-related challenges and implement targeted interventions.
Way Forward: There is a need for a principled approach to accessibility that transcends mere compliance with regulations. By ensuring that accessibility rules are clear, inclusive, and well-enforced, society can move towards a more equitable environment where everyone has the opportunity to participate fully.
This structured approach will not only benefit individuals with disabilities but will also enhance user experience for all members of society.
Months after conferringclassical language status to Marathi, the Union Government issued an official notification formalizing the recognition.
What is the Criteria for declaring a Classical language?
The Linguistic Experts Committee (LEC) under Sahitya Akademi, established in November 2004, evaluates languages for Classical status based on their historical, cultural, and literary significance. The criteria have evolved over time to ensure a rigorous and inclusive assessment.
Original Criteria (2004): Introduced alongside the recognition of Tamil as the first Classical Language:
Recorded history or early texts must span over 1,000 years.
A body of ancient literature must be regarded as valuable by generations.
Literary traditions should be original, not borrowed from another speech community.
Revised Criteria (2005): The criteria were revised to include stricter parameters, leading to the recognition of Sanskrit:
Antiquity of early texts over 1,500–2,000 years.
A significant corpus of ancient literature considered heritage.
Distinctiveness of classical language from modern forms.
A discontinuity between classical language and its later offshoots.
Recent Upgrade (2024): The LEC refined the criteria further to incorporate broader evidence and diverse literary forms. Five additional languages—Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali—were granted Classical status under these parameters:
Early texts/recorded history over 1,500–2,000 years.
Ancient literature/texts considered a cultural heritage.
Inclusion of knowledge texts, prose, epigraphical evidence, and inscriptions.
Classical language distinct from or discontinuous with its modern or evolved forms.
Classical languages: Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Telugu (2008), Kannada (2008), Malayalam (2013), Odia (2014); Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali (2024) along with Marathi.
What are the significance of Classical Language?
Recognizing a classical language preserves its historical roots and unifies cultural heritage.
It promotes academic research, translation, and scholarly employment opportunities.
Gaining global awareness broadens its use in technology, academia, and global dialogue.
Government support and funding ensure sustained preservation, research, and institutional development.
Historical Significance of Marathi Language
Marathi’s 2,000-year history meets the antiquity criterion.
Early mentions of “Marathi” in various forms, such as Maharashtri Prakrit, Jain Maharashtri, and Prakrit Marathi, point to its evolution.
Over 100 stone inscriptions, including those in the Naneghat Caves (20 BCE), which contain Marathi commands alongside Sanskrit benedictions.
Literary milestones: Works from the Yadava period (12th–13th century AD) such as:
Leelacharitra: A biography of Chakradhar Swami.
Dnyaneshwari: A commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Sant Dnyaneshwar.
The Pathare Committee (2013) and Sahitya Akademi supported Marathi’s case.
A massive postcard campaign with 500,000 letters sent to the Prime Minister demanding recognition.
Dnyaneshwar Mulay’s Committee addressed administrative hurdles to finalize the proposal in February 2024.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following was given classical language status recently?
Bureaucratic problems have caused many households in northern, central, and eastern India to be taken off the PDS rolls.
How effectively does the PDS ensure food security for vulnerable populations?
Food Access and Coverage: The PDS covers approximately 57% of the population, providing subsidized staples primarily rice and wheat. This system acts as a safety net during economic shocks and has played a crucial role during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic by distributing free food grains to millions.
Leakages and Corruption: A staggering 28% of allocated food never reaches intended beneficiaries, translating into significant losses and exacerbating food insecurity among the poor.
Corruption and illegal diversion of food grains are rampant, with reports indicating that high leakage rates persist despite technological interventions like point-of-sale machines.
Nutritional Security: While the PDS provides basic food staples, it often neglects broader nutritional needs. The focus on rice and wheat means that other essential items, such as pulses and fortified foods, are not consistently included, which is crucial for combating malnutrition among vulnerable populations.
Case study:
The Public Distribution System (PDS) is intended to provide food security to vulnerable populations, but reports indicate significant inefficiencies. In states like Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bihar, a substantial number of households have been removed from PDS rolls, exacerbating food insecurity among marginalised communities such as the Musahar community.
What are the key documentation challenges facing the implementation of the PDS?
Unnecessary Documentation: The PDS requires documents like caste, income, and residence certificates, which are not mandated by the NFSA or PDS control orders, creating barriers for individuals who lack or cannot easily obtain them.
Inclusion and Exclusion Errors: Errors in beneficiary identification result in eligible households being excluded (61%) and ineligible ones receiving benefits (25%), undermining the system’s fairness.
Biometric Verification Challenges: Biometric failures and data discrepancies lead to eligible individuals being removed from PDS rolls, forcing them to reapply without guarantees of approval.
Awareness Gap: Marginalized communities often lack knowledge about their rights and the application process, leading to underutilization of benefits and increased vulnerability to exploitation.
Technological Barriers: The shift to online applications disadvantages individuals without internet access or digital literacy, widening the gap in accessing entitlements.
Ghost Beneficiaries: The issuance of ration cards to non-existent individuals (“ghost cards”) due to poor data management and irregular updates creates inefficiencies and complicates the system.
What are the bureaucratic challenges?
Exclusion Due to Ineffective Targeting: The move to a targeted PDS has resulted in many eligible households being excluded due to bureaucratic inefficiencies in identifying the right beneficiaries.
Complicated Documentation Process: The need for documents like caste and income certificates creates obstacles for many eligible individuals, particularly in marginalised communities, leading to their exclusion from the system.
Issues with Biometric Verification: The mandatory biometric verification has caused problems, with many individuals being removed from PDS rolls due to technical errors or discrepancies, forcing them to reapply without certainty of approval.
Poor Data Management: Inadequate beneficiary list management has led to both inclusion and exclusion errors, with outdated records and ghost beneficiaries making it difficult for genuine recipients to access their food entitlements.
Corruption and Mismanagement: Corruption within the PDS, such as the diversion of food grains and mismanagement at various levels, has caused significant portions of allocated food to not reach the intended beneficiaries.
What reforms are necessary to enhance the PDS and uphold the right to food? (Way forward)
Streamlining Documentation Requirements: Simplifying or eliminating unnecessary documentation can help improve access for eligible households.
Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Implementing regular audits and community monitoring can help combat corruption within the system.
Increased transparency in operations will ensure that resources reach those who need them most.
Expanding Nutritional Offerings: Including a wider variety of food items in the PDS can address nutritional deficiencies among vulnerable populations.
States like Tamil Nadu have successfully incorporated pulses and fortified rice into their distribution systems, serving as models for others.
Digitalization and Grievance Redressal: Improving digital infrastructure while ensuring robust grievance redressal mechanisms can enhance efficiency and accountability within the PDS.
Mains PYQ:
Q What are the major challenges of Public Distribution System (PDS) in India? How can it be made effective and transparent? (UPSC IAS/2022)
