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GS Paper: GS1

  • “One Nation, One Time” in the country

    Why in the News?

    To ensure uniform timekeeping, the government has proposed new rules requiring Indian Standard Time (IST) to be used exclusively for all official and business purposes. The Consumer Affairs Ministry is inviting public feedback on these rules.

    What are the  Draft Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules of 2025?

    • Mandatory Use of IST: The rules establish IST as the sole time reference for legal, administrative, commercial, and official documents across various sectors including commerce, transport, public administration, legal contracts, and financial operations.
    • Prohibition on Alternative Time References: The draft prohibits any time references other than IST for official and commercial purposes. Exceptions are allowed for specialised fields like astronomy and navigation but require prior government approval.
    • Display and Synchronization Requirements: Government offices and public institutions must prominently display IST. Additionally, time-synchronization systems will be necessary to ensure accuracy, reliability, and cybersecurity.
    • Collaboration with Scientific Institutions: The Department of Consumer Affairs is working with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to develop a robust mechanism for time generation and dissemination.
    • Penalties and Compliance Monitoring: Violations of these rules will incur penalties. Regular audits will be conducted to ensure compliance across sectors.

    How the New Draft Rules are significant?

    • Standardisation Across Sectors: The rules mandate the exclusive use of Indian Standard Time (IST) as the sole time reference for all official and commercial activities, including commerce, transport, public administration, and legal contracts. This uniformity is essential for ensuring consistency in operations across diverse sectors.
    • Enhancement of Critical Infrastructure: The initiative aims to improve precision in critical national infrastructure such as telecommunications, banking, defence, and emerging technologies like 5G and artificial intelligence.
    • Support for Technological Advancements: The rules will facilitate the integration of advanced technologies by ensuring that all systems operate on a synchronized time basis. This is particularly important for digital governance, navigation systems, and real-time applications that rely on precise timing.
    • National Security Implications: By synchronizing critical infrastructure, the rules contribute to national security. It will enhance time accuracy and support operations in defense and emergency response scenarios, where timely coordination is crucial.
    • Regulatory Framework and Compliance: The draft establishes a robust regulatory framework, including provisions for penalties and periodic audits to ensure compliance. This will help maintain high standards of timekeeping across all sectors and promote accountability among entities using IST.

    What challenges exist in transitioning to a unified time system?

    • Technological Integration: Upgrading existing systems to synchronise with IST will require significant technological investments and modifications, particularly in sectors like finance and stock exchanges that depend on precise time-stamping for transactions.
    • Coordination Across Sectors: Ensuring compliance across diverse industries such as commerce, transport, and public administration will be complex and resource-intensive, requiring adjustments in scheduling and communication systems, especially for public transportation networks like railways and airlines.
    • Public and Business Awareness: Raising awareness and educating businesses and the public about the new rules is essential for smooth implementation, as smaller enterprises may need additional support to align their operations with IST requirements.

    How will compliance be monitored? (Way forward) 

    • Periodic Audits: Regular inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance with IST regulations across various sectors with government auditors verifying proper implementation in public institutions and commercial enterprises.
    • Penalties for Violations: Non-compliance will result in penalties acting as a deterrent with entities found using alternative time references in official documents facing fines or legal consequences.
    • Collaborative Efforts and Public Feedback: Partnerships with institutions like the National Physical Laboratory and ISRO will support a reliable time dissemination system while stakeholder feedback will help refine the rules and address practical challenges.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What do you understand by “Standard Positioning System” and “Precision positioning system” in the GPS era? Discuss the advantage India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Substantive equality in child marriage laws

    Why in the News?

    Men are given more time than women to leave a child marriage. This means the age for marriage should be the same for both, at 18, not 21.

    What is the situation of child marriage in India? 

    • National Data: The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), conducted between 2019 and 2021, reveals that 23.3% of women aged 20-24 were married before the age of 18. This shows a decline from 26.8% in NFHS-4 (2015-16), but child marriage remains a widespread issue.
    • State-wise Variation: The prevalence of child marriage varies significantly across states. For example: in Bihar: 40.8% of women aged 20-24 were married before 18, West Bengal: 41.6%, Rajasthan: 25.4% and Kerala: 6.3% (one of the lowest rates in India).
    • Gender Disparity: Although girls are more affected, boys also face child marriage. NFHS-5 reports that 17.7% of men aged 25-29 were married before the age of 21.

    How can existing laws be strengthened to effectively combat child marriage?

    • Uniform Age of Marriage: The legal age for marriage should be standardized at 18 for all genders, eliminating the current disparity that allows men to marry at 21 and women at 18. This would ensure equal rights and protections for both parties under the law.
    • Enhanced Enforcement Mechanisms: Strengthening the enforcement of existing laws, such as the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), is crucial. This includes more rigorous monitoring of marriages, especially in rural areas, and imposing stricter penalties on those who facilitate child marriages.
    • Stricter Penalties for Facilitators: Increase legal penalties for those facilitating child marriages, such as parents, religious leaders, and community officials, to act as a deterrent. Example: Nepal’s law penalizing facilitators of child marriage has reduced its occurrence by holding all involved parties accountable.
    • Awareness Campaigns and Education: Launch nationwide awareness campaigns to educate communities about the legal age of marriage and its harmful effects, empowering families to protect children. Example: In India, campaigns by organizations like “Plan India” have raised awareness and led to a decline in child marriage rates in targeted regions.

    What are the key judgements? 

    • Independent Thought v. Union of India (2017): The Supreme Court ruled that the exception to the prosecution of marital rape for husbands of girls below 18 years of age was unconstitutional. This judgment focused on the rights of girls under 18 in marriages, emphasizing their protection from sexual exploitation.
    • Gender Disparity in Nullity Petition: The Allahabad High Court emphasized that the gender-based difference in the minimum age of marriage (18 years for women and 21 for men) creates an unfair advantage for men, allowing them to annul marriages at a later age (up to 23), while women are restricted to 20. This interpretation contradicts the principle of gender equality.

    What are the societal and cultural factors contributing to the persistence of child marriage despite legal prohibitions?

    • Traditional Practices: In many communities, child marriage is deeply embedded in cultural and religious norms. These cultural beliefs place pressure on families to marry off daughters at a young age.
    • Poverty and Economic Factors: In regions with high poverty rates, families may view child marriage as a way to reduce financial burdens, sometimes even receiving dowry or financial assistance in return for the marriage.
    • Gender Inequality: Patriarchal views often limit girls’ opportunities for education and economic empowerment, which makes them more vulnerable to early marriage. Women may be seen as property to be married off, reinforcing the practice.
    • Lack of Education and Awareness: A lack of awareness about the legal age for marriage and the harmful effects of child marriage perpetuates this practice. Some families may not be fully aware of the legal consequences or the negative impacts on the health and development of girls.

    What role do community-driven approaches play in preventing child marriage?

    • Community Education and Awareness Programs: Empower local communities with knowledge about the dangers of child marriage in terms of legal, health and social consequences which can gradually change attitudes and reduce the incidence of child marriage.
    • Involving Local Leaders: Traditional community leaders, such as religious leaders and village elders, play a significant role in shaping opinions. Engaging them in awareness campaigns and encouraging them to take a stand against child marriage can influence public opinion and reduce the practice.
    • Strengthening Social Networks and Support Systems: Encouraging peer groups, women’s organizations, and NGOs to support girls at risk of child marriage can create an environment where they are less likely to fall victim to early marriage.
    • Monitoring and Reporting Mechanisms: Creating anonymous and accessible reporting mechanisms for communities to report child marriages can ensure prompt intervention. Encouraging local participation in safeguarding the rights of children helps address the issue at the community level.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Ensure uniformity in the legal age of marriage for all genders and improve enforcement by establishing dedicated child marriage prevention units at local levels.
    • Community Empowerment and Education: Expand community-driven programs focusing on education, raising awareness about the harmful effects of child marriage, and providing support systems for vulnerable girls.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The women’s questions arose in modern India as the part of 19th-century social reform movement. What are the major issues and debates concerning women in that period? (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Earth’s magnetic North Pole is shifting toward Siberia

    Why in the News?

    Earth’s magnetic north pole, a critical point where the planet’s magnetic field lines converge, is in constant motion due to changes in the Earth’s molten core. Currently located in the Arctic Ocean above Canada, the magnetic north pole has been moving towards Siberia at an accelerated pace.

    What is the World Magnetic Model (WMM)?

    • The WMM is the standard model used for navigation, attitude, and heading referencing systems that rely on Earth’s geomagnetic field.
    • It is widely used in civilian applications, including navigation and heading systems, as well as in military operations.
    • The WMM provides accurate data on the Earth’s magnetic field and the location of the magnetic North Pole, combining measurements from ground stations and satellites.
    • Revisions and Updates:
      • A new version is updated every five years to address changes in the magnetic field.
      • The latest version, WMM2025, was released on December 17, 2024, and will remain valid until late 2029.
    • The WMM is jointly developed by the United States’ National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and the United Kingdom’s Defence Geographic Centre (DGC), with technical support from NCEI and the British Geological Survey (BGS).
    • It serves both civilian and military purposes, ensuring accuracy in navigation systems, GPS applications, and other tools dependent on Earth’s magnetic field.

    Why is the Magnetic North Pole Moving?

    • The magnetic North Pole moves due to the dynamic flow of molten iron and other metals in Earth’s outer core, which generates the planet’s magnetic field.
    • These movements cause shifts in magnetic field lines, leading to the pole’s drift over time.
    • The pole was first identified in Canada in 1831 and has since moved over 400 km toward Russia.
    • Key Observations of Movement:
      • From 1990 to 2000, the pole drifted at a rapid rate of 55 km/year.
      • By 2015, this rate slowed to 35 km/year, but the drift remains unpredictable.
      • Currently, the pole is moving closer to Siberia, reflecting changes in Earth’s core dynamics.
    • Impact of Movement:
      • The drift affects navigation systems, aviation routes, and Earth’s magnetic shielding against harmful solar radiation.
      • Scientists monitor this movement using the WMM to ensure updated predictions and mitigate potential impacts on navigation and environmental protection.

  • Andhra Pradesh’s Etikoppaka Toys

    Andhra Pradesh’s Etikoppaka Toys

    Why in the News?

    On the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, Andhra Pradesh’s tableau showcasing the Etikoppaka Bommalu — a 400-year-old wooden toy-making tradition — captivated the audience at New Delhi’s Kartavya Path.

    About Etikoppaka Bommalu

    • The craft originates from Etikoppaka, a small village in Andhra Pradesh, renowned for its 400-year-old wooden toy-making tradition.
    • The name “Etikoppaka” is synonymous with eco-friendly wooden toys, which reflect a seamless blend of art and sustainability.
    • The toys are made from the wood of the Ankudu tree (Wrightia tinctoria), known for its lightweight and malleable properties, allowing intricate carvings.
    • Artisans use natural dyes derived from plant-based sources like seeds, leaves, and bark, ensuring non-toxic and child-safe finishes.
    • The lacquer-turning technique gives the toys a lustrous finish, sealing the natural colors while enhancing durability.

    Cultural and Historical Significance

    • The toys often depict mythological characters, animals, and musical instruments, connecting them to India’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Many designs reflect motifs from ancient civilizations such as Mohenjo Daro and Harappa.
    • The crafts include spinning tops, household decorations, musical instruments, and Raja-Rani figurines, showcasing a timeless aesthetic.
    • In 2017, Etikoppaka Bommalu received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring their authenticity and preserving their cultural significance.
    • These toys have gained international recognition, admired by collectors and eco-conscious enthusiasts.

    Other GI-Tagged Toys in India:

    Origin Description
    Channapatna Toys Karnataka Wooden toys known for vibrant colors and eco-friendly lacquer finish.
    Nirmal Toys Telangana Intricately carved wooden toys that reflect artistic craftsmanship.
    Indore Leather Toys Madhya Pradesh Lifelike animal figures made from leather, showcasing detailed craftsmanship.
    Kondapalli Bommallu Andhra Pradesh Traditional wooden dolls crafted from local wood, often painted in bright colors.

  • Rakhigarhi is giving us more clues on Saraswati River

    Why in the News?

    A massive water reservoir recently uncovered at Rakhigarhi reveals advanced Harappan water management practices linked to the Saraswati River.

    Do you know?

    The Centre of Excellence for Research on the Saraswati River (CERSR) at Kurukshetra University conducted a comprehensive study establishing that the Saraswati River, often termed “mythical,” flowed in Haryana until 1402 AD.

     

    About Rakhigarhi

    • Rakhigarhi, located in Hisar, Haryana is the largest site of the Indus-Saraswati Civilisation, dating back to the mature Harappan period (2600–1900 BCE).
    • It is situated in the plains of the Saraswati River, about 27 km from the seasonal Ghaggar River.
    • First excavated in 1969 by archaeologist Suraj Bhan, it consists of seven mounds and has been a key site for understanding Harappan urban planning and water management.
    • Recent findings have pushed the timeline of the civilisation to as early as 6000 BCE.
    • In 2020, Rakhigarhi was designated as an Iconic Site under the Union Budget for development and preservation.
    • NCERT states that DNA studies from Rakhigarhi suggest the genetic roots of the Harappans trace back to 10,000 BCE.

    Significant Features

    • Urban Planning: Evidence of well-planned streets, brick houses, and an advanced drainage system.
    • Water Management: Discovery of a 3.5–4 feet deep reservoir at Mound 3 indicates advanced water storage systems.
    • Cultural Significance: Artifacts such as pottery, terracotta figurines, beads, and copper tools demonstrate artistic and technological advancement.
    • Trade and Economy: Marine shells and fishhooks point to long-distance trade and local craftsmanship.
    • River Proximity: Located near the paleochannels of the Drishadvati River, a key tributary of the Saraswati River, supporting agriculture and daily life.

    Key Findings

    • Huge Water Reservoir at Mound 3: Layers of siltation confirm water storage practices during the late Harappan period.
    • Artifacts: Items like copper tools, marine shells, and ornate pottery suggest trade and daily life activities.
    • Burials: Skeletons and burial goods provide insights into Harappan rituals and social structures.
    • DNA Analysis: A 4,600-year-old skeleton showed no Steppe ancestry, challenging the Aryan invasion theory.
    • Related Sites: Nearby settlements like Bhirrana and Farmana extend the timeline of the civilisation.

    PYQ:

    [2011] Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements:

    1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene,
    2. During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Is poverty being underestimated in India?

    Why in the News?

    The government recently published a factsheet on the 2023-24 Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES), highlighting a reduction in poverty levels across both urban and rural areas.

    What are the key findings of the report? 

    • Average MPCE and Imputed Values: In 2023-24, the average Monthly Per Capita Expenditure (MPCE) was Rs. 4,122 in rural areas and Rs. 6,996 in urban areas, excluding the value of free items provided through social welfare schemes.
    • Growth in MPCE and Urban-Rural Gap: Compared to 2022-23, the MPCE in nominal terms grew by approximately 9% in rural areas and 8% in urban areas. The urban-rural MPCE gap narrowed from 84% in 2011-12 to 71% in 2022-23, further declining to 70% in 2023-24, indicating robust consumption growth in rural areas.
    • Consumption Trends by Population Segments: The highest increase in MPCE in 2023-24, compared to 2022-23, was observed among the bottom 5-10% of India’s population, for both rural and urban households.
    • Composition of Expenditure: Non-food items accounted for 53% of rural MPCE and 60% of urban MPCE in 2023-24. Within the food basket, beverages, refreshments, and processed foods dominated expenditure, while in the non-food category, conveyance, clothing, entertainment, and durable goods were significant contributors. Urban households also allocated about 7% of non-food expenditure to rent.
    • Decline in Consumption Inequality: The rural Gini coefficient dropped from 0.266 in 2022-23 to 0.237 in 2023-24, and the urban coefficient fell from 0.314 to 0.284 during the same period.
    Note: The Gini coefficient is a statistical measure used to quantify income or consumption inequality within a population, ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (maximum inequality).

    What are the concerns related to the HCES data?

    • Incomparability of Data Sets: The methodology used in the 2022-23 HCES differs significantly from previous surveys, making it difficult to compare results over time. The introduction of a “modified mixed reference period” complicates direct comparisons with earlier data collected under different methodologies.
    • Sampling Bias: There are concerns that the survey may not adequately represent extremely poor households, leading to an overestimation of average expenditures. This bias could arise from changes in sampling strategies that favor more affluent households.
    • Data Availability Issues: The absence of recent and reliable consumption data prior to the 2022-23 survey has led to a reliance on outdated estimates, which may not accurately reflect current poverty levels. The last comprehensive survey before this was conducted in 2011-12.

    What does the consumption pattern tell about poverty in rural and urban regions?

    • Divergent Poverty Levels: The average monthly per capita expenditure (MPCE) indicates significant disparities between rural and urban areas, with rural areas averaging Rs 4,122 and urban areas Rs 6,996 in 2023-24. This suggests that urban populations generally have higher consumption levels.
    • Survival on Minimal Incomes: Reports indicate that a substantial portion of India’s population survives on less than Rs 100 per day, highlighting persistent poverty despite claims of decline. This raises questions about the adequacy of the poverty line used for estimation.

    What are the criticisms faced by the Multidimensional Poverty Index?

    NITI Aayog, the policy think tank of the Government of India, adopted the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) as a measure to evaluate poverty in India.

    • Methodological Concerns: Critics argue that the MPI’s reliance on equal weighting for health, education, and living standards may oversimplify the complexities of poverty. The selection of indicators can significantly influence outcomes, potentially leading to biased representations.
    • Dynamic Nature of Poverty: The MPI may not adequately capture the fluidity and changing nature of poverty over time, as it relies on static indicators that do not reflect immediate economic conditions or shocks such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Political Implications: Some economists suggest that using MPI as a primary measure for poverty could be politically motivated, aiming to present favourable statistics while ignoring deeper economic issues such as stagnant real wages and rising inequality.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Data Collection: Conduct regular and comprehensive Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) to ensure updated and accurate poverty assessments. This will bridge data gaps and provide a more reliable basis for policy decisions.
    • Refine Poverty Metrics: Combine the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) with traditional consumption-based measures to capture a holistic and dynamic picture of poverty, accounting for region-specific and pandemic-induced challenges.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone”. In this context analyse the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • In news: Pangsau Pass

    Why in the News?

    The Pangsau Pass International Festival returns to Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, from January 20-22, 2025, celebrating India-Myanmar cultural ties and heritage after a four-year gap.

    In news: Pangsau Pass

    About Pangsau Pass

    • Pangsau Pass is a vital mountain pass located on the India-Myanmar border, connecting the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, with the Sagaing Region of Myanmar.
    • Situated in the Patkai Hills, it lies at an altitude of approximately 3,727 feet (1,136 meters) above sea level.
    • Often referred to as “Hell Pass” due to its challenging terrain and dense forests, it serves as both a geographical marvel and a historical landmark.

    Geographical Significance:

    • Strategic Location: Acts as a natural link between India and Myanmar, facilitating cross-border trade and cultural exchanges.
    • Scenic and Biodiverse: Attractions include the Lake of No Return, a mythical body of water in Myanmar associated with World War II legends.
    • Tourism Potential: The Pangsau Pass International Festival showcases the region’s tribal cultures, boosting local economies and promoting tourism.

    Historical/Political Significance

    • The pass was a crucial part of the Stillwell Road (Ledo Road), constructed during World War II to connect India to China through Myanmar.
    • It played a pivotal role in the China-Burma-India Theater, facilitating supply lines for Allied forces.
    • It serves as a gateway for implementing India’s Act East Policy, aimed at strengthening ties with Southeast Asia.
    • It facilitates cross-border trade and cultural exchanges, fostering economic and diplomatic relationships between India and Myanmar.
    • It enables communities on both sides of the border to engage under the Free Movement Regime (FMR) (now suspended), allowing visitors to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territories without visas or passports.

    PYQ:

    [2012] When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following:

    1. Deep gorges

    2. U-turn river courses

    3. Parallel mountain ranges

    4. Steep gradients causing land-sliding

    Which of the above can be said to be the evidences for Himalayas being young fold mountains?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Is the government encouraging ‘crosspathy’?

    Why in the News?

    Recently, Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration has allowed homeopathic doctors, who completed a course in modern medicine to prescribe allopathic medicines.

    What is the difference between Homeopathy and Allopathy?

    • Homeopathy uses natural substances in tiny doses to help the body heal, while allopathy uses medicines or treatments to directly fight or treat diseases based on science and evidence.

    What is crosspathy?

    • Crosspathy refers to practitioners from one medical system (e.g., homoeopathy) treating patients with medicines from another system (e.g., allopathy).

    Why did the Maharashtra FDA issue a directive allowing homoeopathic practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines?

    • Addressing Doctor Shortage: The directive aimed to tackle the severe shortage of doctors, particularly in rural areas, where there is a lack of healthcare professionals, especially specialists.
    • Expanding Healthcare Access: By allowing certified homoeopathic practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines, the Maharashtra FDA sought to expand healthcare services and make treatment more accessible to patients in underserved regions.
    • Promoting Integrative Medicine: The directive is part of a broader initiative to promote integrative or integrated medicine, where different medical systems, such as homoeopathy and allopathy, are used to complement each other in patient care.

    What is the Supreme Court’s stance on ‘crosspathy’?

    • The Supreme Court (SC) has consistently held that cross-system practice (practicing medicine from a system one is not qualified for) is a form of medical negligence.
    • Poonam Verma vs Ashwin Patel (1996) – A homoeopath was held liable for prescribing allopathic medicines that resulted in a patient’s death.
    • Crosspathy is only allowed where state governments have specifically authorized it through special orders.

    What are the challenges faced by govt?

    • Doctor Shortage: India faces a significant shortage of doctors, especially in rural areas, where the Health Dynamics of India 2022-23 report highlights an 80% deficit of specialists in community health centres. As of June 2022, there were 13.08 lakh allopathic doctors and 5.65 lakh AYUSH practitioners, indicating an insufficient number of qualified professionals to meet healthcare demands.
    • Integration of AYUSH Practitioners: While AYUSH practitioners could potentially fill healthcare gaps, there is no systematic approach to integrating them effectively, which could lead to poor outcomes.
    • Risk to Patients: Allowing unqualified practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines could result in medical errors and negligence, raising concerns about patient safety.
    • Opposition from Professional Bodies: Organizations like the Indian Medical Association (IMA) strongly oppose crosspathy, questioning its legality and the risks posed to patients.
    • Regulatory Uncertainty: Lack of clarity on who has the authority to issue such directives and manage cross-system practice leads to legal and administrative challenges.

    Way forward: 

    • Clear Regulatory Framework: Establish clear guidelines and regulations for integrating different medical systems to ensure patient safety and effective healthcare delivery, with proper qualifications for practitioners.
    • Address Doctor Shortage Strategically: Focus on training and deploying more allopathic doctors, especially in rural areas, while ensuring AYUSH practitioners are properly integrated into the healthcare system through structured programs.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Why are fertility levels declining in India?

    Why in the News?

    The Global Burden of Diseases Study (GBD) 2021 shows that India’s fertility rate has dropped significantly, from 6.18 children per woman in the 1950s to 1.9 children per woman in 2021.

    Why are fertility levels declining in India?

    What has a GBD Report shown about the total fertility rate in India? 

    • Declining Fertility Rates: India’s TFR has dramatically decreased from 6.18 in the 1950s to 1.9 in 2021, which is below the replacement level of 2.1 necessary for population stability.
    • Future Projections: The report projects that India’s TFR could further decline to 1.04 by 2100, indicating a potential average of less than one child per woman.
    • Socio-Economic Concerns: This steep decline in fertility has raised alarms regarding political and socio-economic impacts, particularly in southern states, where there are fears of losing parliamentary representation due to demographic shifts post-delimitation in 2026.

    Why are fertility levels declining in India?

    • Early Adoption of Family Planning Policies: Southern states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh rigorously implemented family planning policies introduced in the 1950s, leading to a significant decline in fertility rates. For example, Andhra Pradesh currently has a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 1.5, comparable to Nordic countries like Sweden.
    • Higher Female Literacy and Workforce Participation: Increased educational attainment among women has empowered them to delay marriage and childbirth. This is evident in Kerala, where high literacy rates have contributed to the state achieving replacement-level fertility as early as 1988.
    • Changing Societal Norms: Cultural shifts have led to late marriages and smaller families. For instance, women in southern states increasingly prioritize careers and financial independence over traditional roles, contributing to lower fertility rates.
    • Urbanization and Economic Pressures: Urban lifestyles and rising costs of living discourage larger families. States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have seen fertility rates drop to 1.4 and 1.6 respectively due to urbanization and modern aspirations.

    Why are the southern States worried?

    • Ageing Population: Southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh have fertility rates that have fallen below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. This decline leads to an increasing proportion of elderly individuals in the population, which is projected to rise significantly.
      • For instance, Kerala’s population aged 60 and above is expected to increase from 13% in 2011 to 23% by 2036. This demographic shift results in a smaller working-age population, which can strain economic productivity and increase demands for pensions and healthcare services.
    • Political Representation: The upcoming delimitation of parliamentary constituencies, based on population figures from the 2031 Census, raises fears that southern states may lose parliamentary seats due to their slower population growth.
      • This potential reduction in representation could diminish their political influence at the national level, especially compared to more populous northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
    • Economic Strain: With a declining workforce contributing less to the economy through taxes and social security, southern states face challenges similar to those observed in countries with ageing populations, such as Japan and China.
    • Migration Issues: As birth rates decline, southern states may increasingly rely on internal migration from northern states to fill labour shortages. However, this reliance could create further socio-economic disparities between regions.

    Way forward: 

    • Equitable Resource Distribution: Implement policies ensuring equitable representation and resource allocation in parliamentary seats post-delimitation to address regional disparities without penalizing states with successful population control measures.
    • Support for Ageing Populations: Develop robust social security systems, healthcare infrastructure, and incentives for elder care while promoting skill development and migration-friendly policies to mitigate workforce shortages in southern states.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Who are the Namdharis?

    Why in the News?

    Punjab CM paid tribute to the Kuka martyrs at a function held at the Namdhari Shaheed Smarak in Malerkotla. The day commemorates the execution of 66 Namdhari Sikhs (Kukas) on January 17 and 18, 1872, by British colonial authorities.  

    Who are the ‘Namdharis’?

    • The Namdharis, also called Kukas, are a Sikh sect founded by Satguru Ram Singh on April 12, 1857, in Ludhiana, Punjab.
    • The name Kuka derives from their distinctive high-pitched recitation of Gurbani (kook in Punjabi means “cry” or “scream”).
    • Social Reforms:
      • Advocated against alcohol consumption, meat eating, and other social vices.
      • Promoted Swadeshi principles, urging people to boycott foreign goods, British services, and educational institutions.
    • The movement served as a precursor to nationwide Non-Cooperation Movement, emphasizing self-reliance and resistance against colonial rule.

    About the Kuka Rebellion

    • The Kuka Rebellion was one of the localized uprisings against British rule after the Rebellion of 1857.
    • The Namdharis actively opposed British policies, particularly cow slaughter, which became a focal point of their resistance.
    • Key events leading to the rebellion:
      • In January 1872, Namdharis, led by Hira Singh and Lehna Singh, clashed with British authorities after a cow slaughter incident in Malerkotla.
      • They attacked the Malaudh Fort in Ludhiana, loyal to the British, but the rebellion was crushed.
    • British Retaliation:
      • The British responded brutally, executing 49 Namdharis on January 17, 1872, and 17 more on January 18, 1872.
      • The Kukas were placed in front of cannons and blown up in a public spectacle to intimidate others.

    Kuka Martyrs’ Day 

    • It is observed on January 17 and 18 each year to honor the 66 Namdharis who were executed in 1872.
    • Significant Stories of Bravery:
      • Bishan Singh (12 years old): Refused to renounce his sect despite being offered his life and was brutally executed after tugging the beard of a British official.
      • Waryam Singh: Courageously used stones to elevate himself to the cannon’s mouth for execution, showing unwavering dedication.
    • Legacy:
      • After the rebellion, Satguru Ram Singh and other Namdhari leaders were exiled to Rangoon.
      • Namdharis believe Ram Singh is still alive and mourn his absence by wearing white.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] The ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Boycott’ were adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the:

    (a) Agitation against the Partition of Bengal

    (b) Home Rule Movement

    (c) Non-Cooperation Movement

    (d) Visit of the Simon Commission to India