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  • [5th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Big Tech’s fail — unsafe online spaces for women

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space? (UPSC CSE 2019)
    Q) Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer. (UPSC CSE 2018)
    Q) Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India? (UPSC CSE 2015)

    Mentor’s Comment:  Nearly 23% of women surveyed in eight countries reported experiencing online abuse or harassment multiple times, with the U.S. having the highest rate.

    Women in power, such as U.S. politician Nikki Haley and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, have encountered gender bias in technology and safety. Haley faced manipulated explicit images during her Republican primary campaign, while Meloni was targeted with deepfake content.

    In Bangladesh, female politicians Rumin Farhana and Nipun Roy were victims of deepfake images circulating on social media ahead of the January 7, 2024, general election, which attracted millions of views. This situation raises critical questions about what actions content moderators are taking to address these issues?

    Today’s editorial addresses the persistent issues of online harassment and abuse that disproportionately affect women. It criticizes the failure of major technology companies to create safe digital environments.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Online abuse directed at women, including harassment, threats, and misogynistic comments has gained significant attention as more women share their experiences of unsafe digital environments, highlighting the urgent need for action.

    • Kamla Harris faced extensive online trolling, particularly from right-wing commentators.
    • These personal attacks targeted her background, character, and integrity, including a manipulated video shared by Elon Musk that falsely portrayed her making disparaging remarks about Joe Biden and herself.

    How does online abuse uniquely affect women compared to men?

    • Widespread Online Harassment: Women in power, such as U.S. politician Nikki Haley and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, have also encountered similar challenges. In Bangladesh, female politicians Rumin Farhana and Nipun Roy were victims of deepfake images ahead of general election, which attracted millions of views.
    • Impact of Big Tech’s Inaction: The failure of major tech companies to effectively manage degrading content places an undue burden on women.
      • The nature of online abuse varies significantly; while men often face misinformation regarding their roles, women are subjected to objectification, sexualized content, and body shaming.
    • Accountability Issues: Big Tech often evades accountability by claiming that their platforms merely reflect user behavior and cannot be closely monitored.
      • In short, they benefit from ‘safe harbor‘ protections that shield them from responsibility.
    • Psychological Impact: Research shows that nearly half of women report severe psychological consequences from online abuse, such as anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.
      • Many women alter their online behavior due to fear of harassment, leading to self-censorship (silencing effect). 
    CASE STUDY:

    • Siri and Gender Bias: Siri’s responses to sexual harassment reflected gender biases inherent in its programming. Apple acknowledged the issue and began working on updates to improve Siri’s responses and reduce gender stereotyping in its interactions.
    • UNESCO Initiatives: UNESCO has been actively working on projects aimed at reducing gender bias in AI technologies. They promote diversity in AI development teams and encourage the implementation of gender-sensitive approaches in algorithm design.

    What measures can be taken to mitigate gender bias in technology and improve safety?

    • Policy and Governance: Establish clear guidelines that address gender bias in technology development and online platforms. Promote diversity in tech leadership roles to ensure varied perspectives are included in decision-making processes.
    • Technology Design: Develop AI tools that can identify and flag abusive content directed at women, allowing for quicker intervention. Secondly, we need to involve women in the design and testing phases of technology to better understand their needs and experiences.
    • Education and Training: Implement training programs for developers and tech professionals on gender sensitivity and the impacts of bias. Need to enhance digital literacy among women to empower them to navigate technology safely and effectively.
    • Online Safety Measures: Improve reporting systems for online harassment, making them more accessible and responsive to women’s experiences. Encourage platforms to provide robust privacy settings that allow users to control their data and interactions more effectively.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/big-techs-fail-unsafe-online-spaces-for-women/article68829587.ece

  • Manipur’s non-Naga Thadou community lends support to NRC

    Why in the News?

    The Thadou tribe, one of the oldest and largest non-Naga tribes in Manipur, has expressed support to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state.

    About the Thadou Community

    Details
    Overview
    • One of the oldest indigenous tribes in Manipur, recognized as a distinct community.
    • One of 29 officially recognized indigenous tribes in Manipur with rich cultural practices and folklore.
    Historical Background Recognized as the largest tribe in Manipur since the First Census of India (1881), with a distinct historical narrative from Kukis.
    ST Recognition Acknowledged as an independent Scheduled Tribe under the 1956 Presidential Order.
    Population  As per the 2011 Census, the Thadou population stands at 2,15,913;
    Identity Asserts a distinct identity from the Kuki community, emphasizing unique language, culture, and history.
    Language Belongs to the Tibeto-Burman family, with a distinct dialect from other nearby tribes.
    Geographic Distribution Primarily located in Manipur; also present in Nagaland, Assam and Mizoram, inhabiting hilly regions.
    Socioeconomic Status Engaged in agriculture (particularly jhum cultivation) and knowledgeable about medicinal plants; faces challenges in infrastructure and education.
    Religious Practices Traditionally practiced animism; many have converted to Christianity, blending traditional and Christian customs.
    Position Amid Ethnic Conflict Affected by the ethnic conflict between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 3, 2023; asserts their distinct identity.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following pairs :

    Tribe: State

    1. Limboo Limbu : Sikkim

    2. Karbi : Himachal

    3. Dongaria Kondh : Odisha

    4. Bonda : Tamil Nadu

    Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • SC ruling on child marriage: why it’s important to go beyond just punishment

    Why in the News?

    In the recent judgment of Society for Enlightenment and Voluntary Action v. Union of India, the SC has shifted the focus in child marriage cases from punishing criminal acts to addressing the “harm inflicted on the victim.”

    What is the law on Child Marriage?

    • Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 (PCMA): Defines child marriage as one where the husband is under 21 years or the wife is under 18.
      • Such marriages are voidable: The underage person can choose to cancel the marriage, but until they do, it is still legally recognized.
    • State Variations: In Karnataka and Haryana, child marriages are void from the beginning, without the need for annulment.
    • Annulment vs. Divorce: Annulment treats the marriage as if it never took place, while divorce ends an existing marriage. To get an annulment under the PCMA, it only needs to be shown that one person was underage at the time.

    Why are there concerns about using criminal action to tackle child marriage?

    • Although the marriage remains valid unless annulled, related activities are criminalized under PCMA, BNS, and POCSO, such as promoting or performing child marriages and sexual activity with a minor.
    • Criminal provisions can lead to charges against the girl’s family members (parents, husband, in-laws), leaving her without support and creating barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare.
    • Studies reveal criminal provisions are used more in self-initiated marriages than arranged ones, overlooking the complexities of these cases.
    • Some adolescents may choose marriage to escape abusive environments or forced marriage, often seeing it as a way to assert their agency in a restrictive society.

    Why is the SC judgment significant?

    • Social and Economic Barriers: Women who leave child marriages often face significant social and economic penalties. The SC judgment proposes skill development, vocational training, economic stability programs, rehabilitation services, and victim compensation to support them.
    • Empowering Women in Child Marriages: Some women prefer to remain married but need support to advocate for themselves. The judgment calls for tools to help them make decisions about reproductive rights, employment, and education.
    • Sex Education for Adolescents: The judgment emphasizes sex education, equipping young people with skills and knowledge to navigate relationships and improve agency.
    • Holistic Approach: By moving away from solely criminal prosecution to focus on empowerment and support, the SC judgment provides a more comprehensive, agency-affirming response to child marriage.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Support Systems: Develop targeted programs for skill training, financial assistance, and rehabilitation to help individuals exit child marriages, promoting economic stability and social reintegration.
    • Enhance Education and Awareness: Implement comprehensive sex education and awareness initiatives in communities to empower young individuals and discourage child marriage through informed decision-making and better access to reproductive rights.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “Empowering women is the key to controlling the population growth.” Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)

    Q Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree? (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Who were Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal?

    Who were Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal?

    Why in the News?

    Superstar Thalapathy Vijay launched his new party with speech highlighting his inspirations from Rani Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal.

    Contributions of Velu Nachiyar (1730-1796)

    • Born in 1730 to King Chellamuthu Sethupathy and Queen Sakandhimuthal of the Ramnad kingdom (now Tamil Nadu).
    • Trained in horse riding, archery, kalaripayattu, and silambam (South Indian martial arts).
    • Educated as a polyglot, fluent in Tamil, Urdu, English, and French, with a strong grasp of military strategy.
    • Married Muthu Vaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar in 1746, supporting him as Queen of Sivagangai.
    • In 1772, Sivagangai was invaded by the British East India Company in alliance with the Nawab of Arcot; her husband was killed in battle.
    • Fled with her daughter Vellachi to Dindigul under the protection of Hyder Ali of Mysore.
    • Formed alliances with Hyder Ali and Gopala Naicker of the Marudu brothers to reclaim her kingdom.
    • Successfully fought against the British and reclaimed Sivagangai in 1780.
    • Ruled for a decade before passing the throne to her daughter in 1790.
    • Known as Tamil Nadu’s ‘Veeramangai’ (Brave Lady) and celebrated as an early Indian queen who resisted British colonialism.

    Significant role played by Anjalai Ammal (1890-1961)

    • Born in 1890 in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, to a weaver family.
    • Married Murugappan in 1908, and both joined the freedom struggle inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles.
    • Became active in the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1921, marking the beginning of her political involvement.
    • Played a significant role in:
      • Neil Statue Satyagraha, protesting a statue of Colonel James Neil.
      • Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942.
    • Served as President of the All India Women’s Congress in Madras in 1931.
    • Arrested multiple times for her activism; gave birth to her youngest son while serving a six-month prison term.
    • Prevented by the British from meeting Gandhi in 1934; met him in disguise, and he called her “South India’s Rani of Jhansi”.
    • First woman elected to the Madras legislature as a Congress representative.
    • Remained politically active until her death in 1961, remembered as a pioneer for women’s rights and freedom.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.

    [2015] Consider the following statements:

    1. The first woman President of the Indian National Congress was Sarojini Naidu.

    2. The first Muslim President of the Indian National Congress was Badruddin Tyabji.

    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

  • What is DANA?

    Why in the News?

    The extreme conditions in eastern Spain which saw Valencia get a year’s worth of rain in just 8 hours can be blamed on an event locally known as Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA).

    What is DANA?

    • Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA), is commonly referred to as the “cold drop” in English.
    • It is a meteorological phenomenon in the western Mediterranean region that brings intense rainfall and flooding.
    • The term “DANA” was coined by Spanish meteorologists to specifically describe this weather phenomenon.

    Features and Location:

    • DANA occurs when cold air from the Polar Regions separates from the polar jet stream and descends over the warmer Mediterranean Sea.
    • The contrast between cold air aloft and warm, moist air near the surface causes atmospheric instability, leading to the rapid formation of cumulonimbus clouds and intense thunderstorms.
    • It primarily affects Spain and Portugal but can also impact Italy, France, and other areas around the Mediterranean Sea.
    • This occurs in autumn and spring, as temperature variations are more pronounced during these seasons.

    PYQ:

    [2014] The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of:

    (a) Equatorial climate

    (b) Mediterranean climate

    (c) Monsoon climate

    (d) All of the above climates

  • [31st October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Importing a toxic work culture into India

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space? (UPSC CSE 2019)
    Q) Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2019)
    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)
    Q) Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society. (UPSC CSE 2023)

    Mentor’s Comment:

    The tragic death of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old chartered accountant, underscores the human cost of a relentless work culture that often glorifies long hours and high productivity, leading to Mental health crises among young professionals.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) states that 20% of Indians are expected to experience mental health disorders by the end of the year, with 5.6 crore suffering from depression and 3.8 crore from anxiety disorders

    Most of the world’s largest multinationals are American, which shapes their work culture. Western work culture is not just about productivity; it’s deeply rooted in historical and religious contexts.

    Today’s editorial addresses the alarming trend of adopting detrimental workplace practices from abroad, particularly from high-pressure environments in developed countries. It highlights the severe implications of such practices on mental health and overall employee well-being.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The tragic death of a 26-year-old Chartered Accountant has brought attention to the severe pressures faced by employees in high-stress environments.

    • The Lancet found a 35% increase in mental health disorders in India, reflecting the growing crisis 

    What are the characteristics of toxic work cultures imported from Western countries?

    • Historical Insights: After the USSR fell, the U.S. gained significant influence over global affairs, and its economic practices became the standard for success.
      • The idea of “the American way” (long hours and high productivity/Capitalist perspective) became synonymous with corporate culture, influencing companies worldwide.
      • Karl Marx pointed out over a century ago, longer working days can lead to higher profits if labor costs are kept low.
      • German sociologist Max Weber explored that Protestantism changed its attitudes toward work in Northern Europe.
    • American Influence on Work Culture: The term ‘Multinational Corporations’ is misleading because, despite their global operations, these companies are often closely tied to their home countries.
      • Max Weber cited American thinker Benjamin Franklin to illustrate this connection, suggesting that the work culture in MNCs is deeply rooted in historical religious values (cultural glorification of hard work) rather than modern management theories.
    What is the actual scenario?

    • Data from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) shows that while hard work has helped the U.S. economy grow, it doesn’t guarantee the highest living standards. In 2023, the U.S. ranked 12th globally in terms of per capita income, falling behind countries like Austria, Belgium, and Denmark.
    • The U.S. has improved only slightly compared to Switzerland. Interestingly, workers in most other countries listed worked fewer hours than those in the U.S. This shows that achieving greater wealth while working less is possible.

    How does this imported ‘Capitalist perspective’ affect Indian professionals and their work culture?

    • High-Pressure Work Environment: American companies often expect long hours, leading to stress and burnout among Indian workers. The expectations set by American firms often clash with Indian cultural norms.
      • Indian work culture traditionally values relationships and teamwork, the imported capitalist model tends to prioritize efficiency and individual performance. 
      • Indian professionals may struggle with the more egalitarian approach of American firms, which encourages open communication.
    • Hierarchical Structures Vs. Equality: Indian workplaces are typically hierarchical, with a strong emphasis on respect for authority and seniority. In Indian organizations, decision-making is often top-down, whereas American firms favor collaborative approaches.
      • This difference can make it challenging for Indian professionals to adapt, as they may feel uncomfortable speaking up or challenging their superiors even when encouraged to do so.
    • Work-Life Balance Challenges: Long hours and blur boundaries like working late or during weekends, make it hard for the employees to relax or find the space between work and personal life.
      • Rising stress levels contribute to mental health problems, including anxiety and burnout.
      • Women face additional pressures in balancing work demands with traditional family roles.

    What steps can organizations take to mitigate these effects?

    • Employee Wellbeing Programs: Create wellness initiatives that include flexible work hours, mental health days, and access to counseling. These programs help reduce stress and improve morale.
    • Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage flexible schedules and remote work options. This helps employees manage personal and professional commitments, reducing burnout.
    • Foster Open Communication: Build a culture where employees can discuss their workloads and mental health openly. Regular check-ins can help managers support their teams effectively.
    • Train Managers: Provide training for managers to be supportive leaders. Good management practices can enhance employee satisfaction and create a positive work environment.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/importing-a-toxic-work-culture-into-india/article68815685.ece

  • [pib] Four replicas of Konark Wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan

    konark
    PC: konark.in

    Why in the News?

    Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan. 

    About Konark Wheels

    Details
    Design The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
    Dimensions of Wheels Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
    Symbolism of Wheels The wheels represent various time-related aspects:
    • 7 horses symbolize the days of the week.
    • 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months.
    • 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day.
    • 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
    Architectural Features • The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses.
    • Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
    Sun Dial Functionality Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
    Modern Representation
    • Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.

    Its significance

    • The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
    • Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
    • Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.

    Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple

    konark

    • Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
    • Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
    • Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
    • Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
    • Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
    • Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
    • Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan (assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?

    1. Arasavalli

    2. Amarakantak

    3. Omkareshwar

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    Why in the News?

    While five languages were granted classical status earlier this month, Maithili was not considered as the Bihar government had not officially forwarded the proposal, despite ongoing demands for its inclusion.

    Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    About Maithili Language

    • Maithili belongs to the eastern sub-group of the Indo-Aryan branch of languages.
      • It is believed to have evolved from Magadhan Prakrit.
      • The poet Vidyapati (14th century) popularized Maithili, establishing its importance in literature and folk culture.
    • It was added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003, making it one of the 22 officially recognized languages of India.
      • It is an optional subject in the UPSC exams, providing an opportunity for candidates to take it as a paper.
      • It was granted second official language status in Jharkhand in 2018.
    • It is spoken primarily in Bihar and Jharkhand in India, with a significant presence in Nepal.
      • According to the 2011 Census, there are around 12 million Maithili speakers in India.
      • It is the second most spoken language in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
    • Mithilakshar, also known as Tirhuta, is the original script used for writing Maithili.
      • It belongs to the same family as Bangla, Assamese, Odia, Tibetan, and Nepali scripts.
      • The script’s oldest records date back to 950 AD, found in Sahodara stone inscriptions.

    About Eighth Schedule:

    Details
    Purpose Lists the official languages of India as recognized by the Constitution.
    Relevant Articles Part XVII (Articles 343 to 351) of the Constitution outlines provisions for official languages.
    Key Constitutional Provisions • Article 344(1): Mandates the formation of a Commission by the President to recommend steps to promote Hindi after five years of the Constitution’s commencement.
    • Article 351: Promotes the development of Hindi as a medium to represent India’s composite culture.
    Languages in the Eighth Schedule Currently includes 22 languages:
    Initially Included (14 languages): Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
    Later Additions: Sindhi (21st Amendment, 1967), Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali (71st Amendment, 1992), Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santhali (92nd Amendment, 2003).
    Official Language Status Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of India, with English as an additional official language for administrative purposes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following languages:

    1. Gujarati
    2. Kannada
    3. Telugu

    Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language/Languages’ by the Government?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [29th October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The under-representation of women in the judiciary

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness. (UPSC CSE 2021)
    Q) Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgment on ‘The National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to the appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India. (UPSC CSE 2017)

    Mentor’s Comment:

    “Diversity is essential for effective institutionalization, bringing positivity and change.”

    Women’s meaningful representation in the judiciary is a crucial aspect of gender equality and justice. It is a precondition for bringing justice to those who need it the most.

    Although several states have established quotas for women in the lower judiciary, providing 30% to 35% of seats for female candidates during recruitment in recent years, significant disparities persist, particularly in higher courts.

    Today’s editorial explores the current state of women’s representation in the judiciary, the underlying reasons for their under-representation, and the importance of addressing these issues.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recent findings from a joint UN Women and UNDP study highlight the importance of women’s representation in the judiciary, particularly in Africa.

    • CJI Chandrachud has also emphasized the need for dignified working conditions for women in the judiciary, further underscoring the ongoing discussions around gender equality in legal systems globally.
    Current State of Women in the Judiciary:

    • Subordinate Courts: As of 2023, women constitute approximately 36.3% of judges in subordinate courts, up from 27.6% in 2018.
    • High Courts: The representation of women judges in High Courts has increased slightly from 10% in 2018 to 13.4% in 2023, with only 11.5% of judges being female.
    • Supreme Court: The Supreme Court remains the least representative, with only 9.4% (3 out of 32 judges) being women as of December 2023, a marginal increase from 4% in 2018.

    Regional Disparities: The High Courts of Punjab & Haryana, Delhi, and Bombay have the highest number of women judges. Conversely, states like Orissa, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh have only one woman judge each, while Patna and several others have none.

    What are the systemic barriers contributing to the low representation of women in the judiciary?

    • Deeply rooted Patriarchy: A prevailing patriarchal culture limits women’s roles and opportunities in the legal field, leading to discrimination that hinders their judicial careers.
      • Societal expectations regarding domestic duties often lead women to prioritize family over career, causing them to decline promotions or judicial positions.
    • Hostile Work Environment: Women often face sexism and harassment, creating a challenging atmosphere that can result in high turnover rates and hinder career advancement.
    • Inadequate Infrastructure: The lack of essential facilities, such as childcare and appropriate office space, disproportionately impacts women, complicating their ability to balance work and family.
    • Opaque Appointment Processes: The collegium system for appointing judges lacks transparency and tends to favor male candidates, reducing opportunities for qualified women.
    • Low Representation in Litigation: The under-representation of women in litigation results in fewer female candidates for judicial roles, perpetuating the cycle of inequality.
      • Women experience bias from colleagues and clients, which can undermine their credibility and limit their professional growth in the legal field.

    How does the under-representation of women impact the judicial system and society?

    1) Impact on the Judicial System

    • Justice Delivery: Fewer female judges can lead to biased rulings that overlook women’s unique experiences and needs.
    • Legitimacy: A diverse judiciary enhances public trust, signaling that the legal system is accessible and representative.
    • Diverse Perspectives: Women judges bring different viewpoints, enriching decision-making and improving legal outcomes.

    2) Impact on Society

    • Gender Equality: Low representation reinforces societal gender inequalities and limits women’s leadership roles.
    • Role Models: Fewer women in judicial positions discourage young women from pursuing careers in law.
    • Social Justice: A lack of gender diversity may hinder effective responses to issues affecting women, undermining social justice efforts.

    What measures can be implemented to promote greater inclusion of women in the judiciary?

    • Gender Quotas: Set minimum representation targets for women in judicial positions, especially in higher courts.
    • Transparent Appointment Processes: The judiciary needs to revise selection criteria and make the judicial appointments more clear and fair to include diverse candidates.
    • Supportive Programs and Policies: Create mentorship initiatives and support networks by linking aspiring female judges with experienced women in the field.
      • Introduce Family-friendly and flexible working hours and childcare support to help women manage family responsibilities.
    • Gender Sensitivity Training: Implement training for Judges to address biases and foster an inclusive environment within the judiciary.
    • Advocacy and Political Will: Promote and encourage advocacy from civil society organizations to push for women’s representation in the judiciary.

  • Solar, a game changer in women’s empowerment 

    Why in the News?

    Rooftop solar (RTS) can transform India’s energy landscape by providing a sustainable, decentralized, and affordable solution for rising electricity needs and could empower consumers (women and other sections of society) toward greater self-reliance.

    How does solar energy contribute to women’s economic empowerment?

    • Income Generation and Financial Independence: Solar technology enables women to generate income directly, especially in rural areas where traditional energy sources are scarce or costly.
      • For instance, solar-powered pumps have empowered women salt farmers in Gujarat’s Little Rann of Kutch, who, after shifting from diesel to solar, saw a 94% income boost and lower CO₂ emissions.
    • Employment Opportunities: The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, employing around 4.9 million people in 2022, has been particularly impactful for women, who make up about 40% of its workforce.
    • Empowerment Programs: Initiatives like Barefoot College in India and Solar Sister in Africa train women as solar engineers. These programs enhance skills, improve self-reliance, and create employment in remote communities.

    What are the broader social implications of women’s involvement in the solar sector?

    • Community Well-being and Social Development: Women’s participation in the solar sector promotes local economic growth and strengthens social structures.
    • Leadership and Decision-Making: When women lead or actively participate in renewable energy projects, they often advocate for inclusive policies and better community engagement.
    • Gender-Sensitive Energy Policies: Women’s involvement highlights the need for energy policies that address the unique needs of women, improving both economic participation and social inclusion.

    What challenges do women face in the renewable energy sector, and how can these be addressed?

    • Access to Training and Financing: Women often face limited access to training and funding.
      • Overcoming these barriers requires accessible, affordable training programs in solar technology, as well as microfinance schemes specifically for women-led renewable energy projects.
    • Gender Bias and Occupational Segregation: The renewable energy sector, like many others, is affected by gender biases that can limit women’s roles to lower-level positions.
      • To address this, it’s important to promote women’s leadership and equal opportunities through gender-sensitive hiring practices and mentorship programs.
    • Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Energy access policies frequently lack a gender perspective, which limits their reach and inclusiveness.
      • Integrating gender-focused policies in energy and rural development sectors can enhance the socio-economic impacts of solar energy for women.

    Conclusion: Governments should integrate gender-focused policies within renewable energy frameworks, ensuring accessible financing options and training programs specifically for women. Microfinance schemes and subsidies for women-led solar projects can foster broader participation.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)