The Smart Cities Mission (SCM), a flagship initiative launched during the NDA-1 government, has lost prominence in this year’s list of electoral promises and accomplishments.
What are smart cities?
The Government of India defines smart cities as urban areas that provide core infrastructure, ensure a decent quality of life, promote a clean and sustainable environment, and utilize smart solutions for inclusive development.
What are the two major aspects of the Smart Cities Mission?
Area-Based Development (ABD): This includes three components:
Redevelopment: Transforming existing urban areas.
Retrofitting: Improving infrastructure in underdeveloped areas.
Greenfield Development: Creating new urban spaces with modern infrastructure.
Pan-City Solutions: These involve applying smart solutions across the entire city, enhancing services through technology and improving overall urban management and governance.
Why did the implementation of smart cities bypass local government?
Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Model: The SCM employed a governance structure that relied heavily on Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), which were set up as limited companies under the Companies Act.
This model often sidelined local elected councils, as SPVs were typically led by bureaucrats or representatives from multinational corporations, limiting local government involvement in decision-making processes.
Top-Down Approach: Critics argue that the SPV model was too top-down, lacking alignment with the 74th Constitutional Amendment, which emphasizes decentralized governance. This disconnect resulted in many cities objecting to the governance structure, as it did not adequately reflect the needs and demands of local populations.
Competitive Selection Process: The selection of cities was based on a competitive process that did not account for the diverse urban realities across India. This approach led to an exclusionary scheme where only small portions of cities were targeted for development, often ignoring broader community needs and existing urban dynamics.
Limited Local Engagement: The mission’s design did not prioritize citizen participation or local stakeholder engagement effectively, which is crucial for understanding and addressing unique urban challenges. This lack of engagement contributed to projects that did not resonate with the actual needs of residents.
What has happened to the mission in Shimla?
Project Value and Status: The ongoing projects in Shimla are valued at approximately ₹150 crore and are still in the early stages of construction. Key initiatives include the assembly flyover and various parking facilities, with tenders currently being processed.
Funding: The Union Government has allocated a total of ₹500 crore to Shimla under the SCM, with two installments of ₹98 crore still pending. The overall budget for the mission in Shimla is ₹750 crore, which includes a contribution of ₹250 crore from the state government.
Unfinished Projects: Despite the extension, several projects remain incomplete, including those at IGMC, Auckland, and Vikas Nagar. Additionally, construction for the bus stand parking area has not yet commenced.
What are the achievements of Smart City Mission?
Project Completion: As of December 2024, 91% of the total projects under the SCM have been completed, with 7,380 out of 8,075 projects finalized. This reflects significant progress in urban development initiatives across 100 selected cities.
Investment and Infrastructure: The mission has seen an investment of approximately ₹1,47,704 crore. Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, governance improvements, and social services such as housing, transport, education, and healthcare.
Technological Integration: All 100 smart cities have established Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs), which utilize data analytics and emerging technologies like AI and IoT to manage urban services more effectively. These centres played crucial roles during the COVID-19 pandemic by functioning as operational hubs.
Public Safety Enhancements: Over 84,000 CCTV cameras have been installed for enhanced surveillance, along with emergency call boxes and public address systems to improve public safety.
Solid Waste Management: The mission has improved solid waste management practices in over 66 cities through technology integration, enhancing efficiency in waste collection and management.
Mobility Improvements: The development of smart roads and cycle tracks has been a significant focus, with over 1,740 kilometres of roads constructed or improved under the mission.
What are the challenges related to Smart City Mission?
Disparity in Performance: While some cities have exceeded their project targets significantly, others have struggled to meet even basic completion goals. Reports indicate that 66 out of the 100 cities have not met their physical targets as of January 2023, highlighting a stark disparity in performance across regions.
Limited Impact on Quality of Life: Critics argue that despite substantial investments, there has been little improvement in fundamental quality-of-life issues for citizens, such as access to clean water and affordable housing. The mission’s focus on high-tech solutions has sometimes overshadowed pressing social needs.
Financial Constraints: Many local governing bodies face challenges in raising funds for projects due to financial limitations and resistance from citizens regarding user charges for services provided under the mission. This has hindered project execution in several cities.
Implementation Delays: A significant number of projects remain incomplete or are stuck at various stages due to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of coordination among stakeholders involved in the SCM.
Way forward:
Strengthen Decentralized Governance: Empower local governments by aligning the SCM governance model with the 74th Constitutional Amendment. Involve elected councils and local stakeholders in planning, implementation, and decision-making to ensure projects reflect community needs and realities.
Enhance Financial and Technical Capacities: Provide cities with access to sustainable funding mechanisms, including better public-private partnership models, while building technical expertise for efficient project execution and addressing socio-environmental challenges comprehensively.
Mains PYQ:
Q What are ‘Smart Cities’? examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for ‘Smart Villages’ in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission. (UPSC IAS/2016)
The Supreme Court clarified the “doctrine of merger,” stating that only one final decree or order can govern the same matter. When a higher court rules on a case, its decision overrides the lower court’s decree, becoming the binding and operative order.
What is ‘Doctrine of Merger’?
The Doctrine of Merger is a legal principle that governs the relationship between decisions or decrees passed by different judicial forums in the hierarchy.
It holds that once a superior court disposes of a case, the decision or decree of the lower court merges with that of the superior court.
This doctrine ensures that there is only one operative and binding decree governing a subject matter at a given point in time.
The doctrine applies when the order or decree of a lower court is subjected to an appeal, revision, or review before a higher court.
It ensures that there is no ambiguity regarding which order is binding and enforceable.
Key Features of the Doctrine of Merger
Single Operative Decree: The doctrine ensures that once a higher court has passed its judgment, there cannot be multiple operative decrees for the same subject matter.
Scope: Applicable when a lower court’s order is challenged before a superior court. The higher court’s decision, whether confirming, modifying, or overturning the lower court’s decree, becomes the final and binding authority.
Effect of Merger: The lower court’s decree is no longer independently enforceable; it is subsumed within the superior court’s order.
Legal Basis and Precedents:
Kunhayammed v. State of Kerala (2000): The superior court’s decree, whether it confirms, modifies, or sets aside the lower court’s decree, replaces the lower court’s decision.
Logic of the Doctrine: “There cannot be more than one decree or operative order governing the same subject matter at a given point of time.”
Jurisdictional Hierarchy: This principle is applied in cases of appeals and revisions where the decision of the higher forum takes precedence over that of the lower forum.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements:
1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India.
2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q) The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC CSE 2018)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) (2018), and Central Asia, European Region – as a zone of interest for India (2018 & 2022).
Did you know that a 5% improvement in multimodal transport performance can lead to an increase in exports by nearly $500 billion annually across participating economies. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a multi-modal trade network focuses on not only physical infrastructure but also digital connectivity and energy security.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the strategic importance of the IMEC for the United States. This content can be used to address multifaceted approaches to enhance economic growth in Asian and European regions while promoting democratic values.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent signing of a MoU on cybercrime investigations underscores this commitment, as both India and USA aim to bolster their security cooperation in response to common threats like terrorism and organized crime.
The IMEC agreement is viewed as a strategic opportunity for Prez. Donald Trump to deepen U.S.-India ties while also promoting multilateral collaboration among participating countries.
As Trump 2.0 begins, the present administration is anticipated to continue building on the defense and economic frameworks established during his first term.
Key highlights of the Recent MoU:
• Cyber Threat Intelligence Sharing: The agreement facilitates enhanced exchange of information regarding emerging cyber threats, allowing both nations to stay ahead of potential cybercriminal activities.It focuses on improving tools and processes for investigating cybercrimes, thereby strengthening the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in both countries. • Capacity Building: The MoU includes provisions for training programs aimed at enhancing investigative skills related to cybercriminal activities, ensuring that personnel are well-equipped to tackle these challenges. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs will be responsible for executing the MoU from India’s side, while the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), along with its sub-agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Homeland Security Investigations Cyber Crimes Center (C3), will lead implementation efforts from the U.S. side. • Addressing Common Security Challenges: The MoU recognizes the intricate linkages between cybercrime and broader security issues such as terrorism, violent extremism, drug trafficking, organized crime, human trafficking, illegal migration, and money laundering. • Strengthening Security Cooperation: This agreement is part of a broader effort to enhance India-U.S. security cooperation as part of their comprehensive strategic partnership, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in addressing cyber threats.
What is the strategic significance of IMEC with respect to India and USA’s common interests?
Economic Integration: The IMEC (network of ports, railways, and roads) aims to create a seamless flow of goods and services among the participating countries, which include India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and several European nations.
For instance, the corridor could significantly reduce transit times for shipping goods to Europe by up to 40% compared to traditional routes like the Suez Canal. Such improvements lead to increased trade volumes and economic growth.
The potential for establishing Free Trade zones along the corridor further enhances this economic integration by reducing tariffs and regulatory barriers.
Geopolitical Influence: Supporting IMEC allows the U.S. to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Middle East through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
By investing in IMEC, the U.S. can strengthen its alliances with key partners in Asia and Europe while promoting democratic values and stability. The alignment of interests among the U.S., India, and European nations within this corridor serves as a counterweight to China.
For example, the collaboration between India and Gulf monarchies under the IMEC framework is seen as a strategic move to build economic interdependence that can mitigate geopolitical tensions.
Holistic and Sustainable Connectivity: The initiative aims to establish secure High-speed data pipelines that would facilitate the export of India’s IT services to Europe and West Asia, which is crucial for modern economies that rely heavily on digital services.
Moreover, there are plans for Renewable Energy Grids that will enable countries along the corridor to share clean energy resources efficiently.
For example, hydrogen pipelines are proposed to transport green hydrogen produced in the Gulf states to Europe, aligning with global energy transition goals.
What are the limitations in enhancing strategic ties over IMEC?
Logistical and Connectivity Issues: Implementing IMEC requires extensive coordination among multiple countries, involving various modes of transportation.
For Example, If one country has outdated ports or railways, it can slow down the movement of goods, making trade less efficient. For instance, delays at a port in India could hold up shipments to Europe.
Regulatory Harmonization: The diverse regulatory frameworks and systems and regulations of the participating nations pose significant challenges.
For Example, if India has strict import regulations while a Middle Eastern country has more relaxed rules, it could lead to conflicts about how goods are traded.
Finding common ground on regulations is essential for smooth operations.
Security Concerns: The region traversed by IMEC is susceptible to security threats, including terrorism and political instability.
For Example, ongoing conflicts, such as those in Syria and Yemen, along with historical rivalries (e.g., Saudi-Iranian tensions), complicate efforts to ensure a secure environment necessary for attracting investments and fostering economic growth.
China Factor: If China offers better financing or faster infrastructure development for its routes, countries(esp European) might prefer to partner with China rather than engage with IMEC.
As of 2023, BRI engagement has surpassed USD 1 trillion, with approximately USD 419 billion allocated to non-financial investments and USD 634 billion to construction contracts (which is much higher than IMEC).
Financial Commitments: The ambitious nature of IMEC demands substantial financial investments from participating nations.
But, if a country like Iraq struggles with its economy, it may not be able to contribute financially to the project, which could slow down progress for everyone involved.
Way Forward: The IMEC represents a strategic opportunity for the USA to enhance its geopolitical influence while promoting economic growth and stability among participating nations.
As the U.S. navigates complex international dynamics, prioritizing IMEC will be crucial in establishing a resilient and interconnected economic framework that benefits all stakeholders involved, ultimately contributing to a more stable and prosperous global order.
Non-BJP-led State governments oppose the UGC’s draft regulation on vice chancellors’ appointments, claiming it violates constitutional federal principles, and have called for its immediate withdrawal.
What are the aims and objectives behind the University Grants Commission Act, 1956?
The University Grants Commission (UGC) Act, 1956 was established to regulate and improve higher education in India. Its key aims and objectives are:
Coordination and Standardization: Ensuring the coordination and determination of standards in universities to maintain quality education.
Promotion of University Education: Taking steps to promote, develop, and coordinate university education across the country.
Allocation of Funds: Allocating financial resources for the maintenance and development of universities.
Advisory Role: Advising Union and State governments on grant allocation for general or specific purposes in higher education.
Information Collection: Gathering and disseminating information on university education within India and abroad for institutional improvement.
Regulation of Fees: Regulating fees to ensure accessibility and fairness in higher education.
What are the crucial point that needs to be considered?
Jurisdiction of UGC: The UGC’s authority to regulate the selection and appointment of vice-chancellors is questionable since the UGC Act does not explicitly include these provisions. The primary focus of the Act is on maintaining educational standards, not on administrative appointments.
Consistency with UGC Act: Any regulation made by the UGC must align with the provisions of the UGC Act. If a regulation extends beyond the scope of the Act, it could be deemed ultra vires (beyond legal authority) and thus invalid.
Federal Principles: The proposed regulations have raised concerns about violating federal principles enshrined in the Constitution of India, as they may interfere with state legislations that govern universities.
Legislative Authority: Qualifications and selection criteria for vice chancellors are typically established by state legislatures, highlighting a potential overreach by the UGC in its regulatory role.
Impact on Educational Standards: The selection and appointment of vice-chancellors should not be viewed as directly impacting educational standards, which is the primary mandate of the UGC.
Judicial Precedents: Previous court rulings, including those from the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court, have established important legal precedents regarding the relationship between UGC regulations and state laws, emphasizing that subordinate legislation cannot override state legislation.
Constitutional Questions: There are ongoing constitutional debates regarding whether UGC regulations can override state laws and how such conflicts should be resolved under Article 254 of the Constitution, which addresses repugnancy between central and state laws.
What is the present ruling made by the judiciary?
The judiciary has provided significant rulings concerning the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, particularly regarding the selection and appointment of vice-chancellors.
Kalyani Mathivanan Case (2015): The Supreme Court ruled that UGC regulations have a binding effect on universities. This ruling emphasized that subordinate legislation, such as UGC regulations, must be adhered to by the universities under its jurisdiction.
Bombay High Court Ruling (2011): In the case of Suresh Patilkhede vs. The Chancellor Universities of Maharashtra, the court stated that UGC regulations cannot override state legislation. It highlighted that Regulation 7.3.0, being subordinate legislation, does not have the authority to supersede laws enacted by state legislatures.
Constitutional Context: The rulings also touched upon Article 254 of the Constitution, which deals with repugnancy between central and state laws. It clarified that only a law passed by both Houses of Parliament and assented to by the President can override state legislation, not subordinate regulations like those issued by the UGC.
Note:Regulation 7.3.0 pertains to the selection and appointment of Vice Chancellors in universities. Its provisions aim to establish minimum qualifications and a transparent process for such appointments, particularly to ensure the maintenance of academic and administrative standards in higher education institutions.
Way forward:
Collaborative Federal Framework: Establish a consensus-driven approach between the UGC and State governments to ensure that regulations respect federal principles while upholding academic standards. This can involve creating joint committees for resolving conflicts and aligning policies.
Judicial Clarity and Legislative Reforms: Seek a definitive constitutional interpretation of the UGC’s regulatory scope through the judiciary, and, if needed, amend the UGC Act to explicitly define its role in administrative matters, ensuring consistency with the federal structure.
The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) has introduced the Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building Scheme, aiming to enhance awareness and develop expertise in Internet Governance (IG) among Indian citizens.
About Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building (IGICB) Scheme:
Details
About the Scheme
Launched by National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) under MeitY.
Aims to build expertise in Internet Governance (IG) and enable global participation.
Aims and Objectives:
Develop Expertise: Build Indian talent in Internet Governance.
Enhance Global Participation: Collaborate with organisations like ICANN, ISOC, and IETF.
Promote Digital Inclusivity: Ensure India’s representation in global forums.
Q) Religious indoctrination via social media has resulted in Indian youth joining ISIS. What is ISIS and its mission? How can ISIS be dangerous to the internal security of our country? (UPSC CSE 2015)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Religious indoctrination (2015), and ‘tolerance, assimilation and pluralism ’ (2022).
When the Taliban seized power on August 15, 2021, despite an Islamic State attack killing 13 U.S. troops and $7.1 billion in U.S. weaponry left behind, global powers like the U.S., China, and Russia engaged with the Taliban. The West rationalized this as a move to curb terrorism and support women’s and minorities’ rights, prioritizing pragmatism over democracy.
Today’s editorial talks about radicalism around the world and its impact on democratic values. This content will be helpful in substantiation the answer in GS Mains paper 2 the impact of radicalism around the world.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent surge in radical governments worldwide is a notable trend, reflecting a broader discontent with traditional political systems and a shift towards populism and far-right ideologies.
What factors are contributing to the rise of radical and populist governments globally?
Political Vacuum and Instability: The collapse of established governments, as seen in Afghanistan and Syria, creates a power vacuum that radical groups exploit. The Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan and the recent rise of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) in Syria illustrate how instability can lead to the emergence of radical leadership.
International Legitimization: Once radical groups seize power, there is often a tendency among global powers to engage with them, legitimizing their authority despite their past actions. The U.S., China, and Russia’s willingness to work with the Taliban post-2021 exemplifies this trend, as they justified engagement as a means to promote stability and human rights.
Economic Factors: Economic hardship and lack of opportunities can fuel support for radical ideologies. In regions where traditional governance structures fail to provide for citizens, extremist groups may present themselves as viable alternatives.
Religious and Ethnic Polarization: The rise of religious hate and ethnic divisions contributes to the appeal of radical movements. In Bangladesh, for instance, the resurgence of Islamic radicalism is linked to a backdrop of rising religiophobia against non-Abrahamic religions.
How did the radical governments impact democratic institutions in Syria and Bangladesh?
Erosion of Democratic Norms: In both Syria and Bangladesh, the rise of radical groups has led to the dismantling of democratic institutions. The HTS’s control over Syria has resulted in authoritarian governance reminiscent of previous regimes, while the military-led government in Bangladesh threatens to undermine democratic processes established since 2008.
Suppression of Civil Liberties: Radical governments often impose restrictions on freedoms, particularly targeting women and minority rights. The Taliban’s denial of girls’ education and restrictions on women’s rights post-takeover reflect this pattern, while similar threats loom in Bangladesh under military rule.
Manipulation of Political Discourse: Radical groups often use anti-establishment rhetoric to galvanize support, leading to increased polarization within society. In Bangladesh, extremist factions are attempting to regain influence by attacking minority communities and framing their actions in opposition to India, which complicates national unity.
Way forward:
Strengthening Democratic Institutions: For countries like Bangladesh, reinforcing democratic norms and institutions is crucial. International support should focus on promoting inclusive governance that respects minority rights and prevents the resurgence of extremist ideologies1.
Engagement with Civil Society: Encouraging dialogue with civil society organizations can help build resilience against radicalization. Empowering grassroots movements that advocate for democracy and human rights can counteract extremist narratives.
International Cooperation: A coordinated international approach is necessary to address the root causes of radicalization. This includes economic support for development, promoting education, and fostering political stability without legitimizing extremist groups through engagement that overlooks their past actions.
According to the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers, released in Geneva, the global population of international migrants reached 284.5 million in 2022, with 255.7 million of them being of working age (15 and older).
Why are there more male International Migrants in the global labour force than women?
Gender Roles and Norms: Traditional gender roles and societal norms often restrict women’s ability to migrate autonomously. Women are frequently expected to prioritize family responsibilities, which limits their opportunities for international migration and labor market participation.
Labour Market Segmentation: Women are often concentrated in specific sectors such as domestic work, caregiving, and low-skilled service jobs, which are undervalued and less visible.
Men, on the other hand, dominate higher-paying sectors like construction and agriculture, which are more open to international migrants.
Barriers to Employment: As per ILO, Migrant women face higher unemployment rates (8.7%) compared to migrant men (6.2%), due to factors such as language barriers, unrecognised qualifications, limited childcare options, and gender-based discrimination in host countries.
Economic and Social Independence: Women’s migration decisions are influenced by their access to resources and social networks. A lack of autonomy or financial independence can hinder their ability to migrate for work.
In some cases, women migrate as dependents or spouses of male workers, which limits their access to legal employment opportunities in the host country.
Which economic sectors attract IMs?
Construction: The construction industry employs a significant number of male migrants, particularly in regions with rapid urbanisation and infrastructure projects. This sector, part of the 35.6% of male migrant employment in industry, plays a vital role in economic expansion.
Agriculture: Globally, 7.1% of international migrants work in agriculture, with higher figures in regions like Africa, where 27.5% are employed in agriculture, forestry, and fishing. Migrants are crucial for meeting seasonal labour demands.
Manufacturing: Manufacturing heavily relies on migrant workers in industrialized nations, with migrants filling manual labour and skill-specific roles. This sector highlights the alignment of migrant labour with economic development needs.
Services Sector: Approximately 68.4% of international migrants are employed in the services sector, compared to 51.5% of non-migrants. This sector includes a wide range of occupations, but it is particularly noted for:
Care Work: A significant number of migrant women are employed in caregiving roles, which include healthcare and domestic services. About 28.8% of migrant women work in the care economy.
Hospitality and Retail: Many migrants find employment in hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, especially in high-demand tourist areas.
Which are the main host countries?
Approximately 68.4% of international migrants are concentrated in high-income countries followed by 17.4% (29.2 million) in upper-middle-income countries.
Regional Distribution of Migrant Workers (2022): International migrants in the labour force were primarily concentrated in Europe and Central Asia (34.5%, 57.8 million), followed by the Americas (27.3%, 45.8 million), Asia and the Pacific (16.2%, 27.2 million), the Arab States (13.5%, 22.6 million), and Africa (8.5%, 14.3 million). The majority resided in Northern, Southern, and Western Europe (23.3%), Northern America (22.6%), and the Arab States (13.5%), collectively hosting 59.4% of all migrant workers.
Significant Proportions in Labor Forces: Migrants formed more than one-third (37.2%) of the Arab States’ labour force. Significant proportions were also observed in Europe and Central Asia (12.9%) and the Americas (9%), highlighting their vital role in these economies.
Conclusion: Governments and international organizations should implement gender-responsive migration policies that address barriers faced by women. This includes creating support systems for childcare, recognizing foreign qualifications, and ensuring equal access to legal employment opportunities in host countries.
Mains PYQ:
Q “Success of make in India program depends on the success of Skill India programme and radical labour reforms.” Discuss with logical arguments. (UPSC IAS/2015)
12 years after its enactment, the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, 2013, has seen limited impact, with the Lokpal ordering just 24 investigations and granting 6 prosecution sanctions.
History of Lokpal:
The First Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC-I) recommended establishing an anti-corruption ombudsman for India in 1966.
Several Lokpal Bills were introduced between 1971 and 2008, but none were passed.
In 2011, activist Anna Hazare’s Jan Lokpal Andolan led to significant public pressure for an anti-corruption framework.
This movement resulted in the enactment of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which provides for the appointment of:
Lokpal at the Centre.
Lokayuktas in states to address corruption cases involving public servants.
AboutLokpal and Lokayukta
Lokpal
Lokayukta
About
Envisioned under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, it is India’s first anti-corruption ombudsman at the central level.
Covers corruption cases involving public servants, including the Prime Minister (with exceptions), Union Ministers, MPs, and central government officials.
Appointed by the President on the recommendation of a Selection Committee (includes PM, LoP, CJI, and an eminent jurist).
Established under Section 63 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, as the state-level counterpart to the Lokpal.
Handles corruption cases involving state public servants, including Chief Ministers, Ministers, MLAs, and state officials.
Appointed by the Governor, with the composition and appointment process varying across states.
Powers and Functions
Investigates corruption cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Can confiscate property acquired through corrupt practices.
Has jurisdiction over central officials in Groups A, B, C, and D, and institutions receiving significant foreign contributions or government funding.
Can refer cases to the CBI or its Inquiry Wing for investigation.
Submits annual reports to the President, which are tabled in Parliament.
Investigates cases under state laws, particularly involving state public servants.
Addresses corruption complaints related to government schemes, contracts, and functioning.
Powers vary across states, but typically include authority to recommend investigations, disciplinary action, or prosecution.
Submits annual reports to the Governor, which are presented in the State Legislature.
Structural Mandate
Composition: Chairperson (former CJI, SC Judge, or eminent person) and up to 8 members, 50% of whom must be from SC/ST/OBC/Minorities/Women.
The Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP) is set to expand to seven major Indian airports starting January 16, 2025, ensuring seamless and expedited immigration processes for Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.
About the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Program (FTI- TTP)
Launched under the ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’ vision, it aims to establish world-class immigration facilities and enhance international mobility.
The Bureau of Immigration, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is the nodal agency responsible for implementing the programme.
It was initially introduced on June 22, 2024, at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI).
It is targeted at Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders in its first phase and will eventually include foreign travelers.
Phase-Wise Implementation:
Phase 1: Covers Indian citizens and OCI cardholders.
Phase 2: Will extend to foreign travelers.
The program is free of cost during its initial implementation phase.
By 2025, the program will be operational at 21 major airports across India.
Features of the Program
Operates through e-gates or automated border gates for faster processing.
Travelers scan their boarding pass and passport, followed by biometricauthentication, to complete the process.
Enrollment is completed through an online portal (https://ftittp.mha.gov.in), where applicants upload their details and required documents.
Membership is valid for a maximum of 5 years or until the passport’s validity, whichever comes first.
Applicants must ensure their passport has a minimum six-month validity at the time of registration.
White-listed trusted travelers undergo faster clearance while maintaining security standards.
Significance
Reduces immigration clearance time, providing a hassle-free travel experience for international travelers.
Biometric authentication ensures identity verification, reducing risks of fraudulent entries.
Travelers can bypass regular queues, making the process more convenient and seamless.
Comparable to the Global Entry Program in the United States, it aligns India’s immigration services with international standards.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:
There is only one citizenship and one domicile.
A citizen by birth only can become the Head of State.
A foreigner once granted citizenship cannot be deprived of it under any circumstances.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q) In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to its situation? (UPSC CSE 2018)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Nuclear Pact Controversy (2018), and ‘India a position in its global strategy ’ (2019).
In 2025, we mark 80 years since the first nuclear test and the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which killed up to 2,46,000 people. Citing the Bhagavad Gita, Oppenheimer described the destruction as “Death by a thousand suns.” On Nagasaki’s bombing day, Bertrand Russell warned humanity to choose between destruction or adopting wiser political thinking.
Today’s editorial talks about the nuclear power challenges in the world due to nuclear proliferation by Countries. In this situation how India can play an important role in promoting peace. This content can be used in IR topics GS Paper 2.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
It’s time for India to take action for peace since there are no great figures like Russell, Einstein, or Rotblat left to warn the world.
What historical peace initiatives can serve as models for current and future efforts?
•Russell-Einstein Manifesto (1955): This document, drafted by prominent scientists including Bertrand Russell and Albert Einstein, called for global disarmament and emphasized the need for humanity to remember its shared values over national interests. •Avadi Resolution (1955): Passed by the Indian National Congress, this resolution called for the prohibition of atomic and hydrogen bombs and urged the United Nations to address the grave threat posed by nuclear weapons. It anticipated the need for global awareness regarding the dangers of war and weapons of mass destruction. •Rajiv Gandhi’s Action Plan (1988): This initiative aimed for a nuclear-free world and emphasized non-violence. Gandhi’s approach sought to engage international leaders in discussions about disarmament and peace, reflecting a commitment to global security.
How can India leverage its unique position to contribute to global peace initiatives?
Nuclear Weapons State: As one of the nine countries with nuclear capabilities, India has a critical role in discussions about disarmament and non-proliferation. Its experience and perspective can foster dialogue among nuclear states and promote responsible stewardship of these weapons.
Historical Leadership: India’s past leadership in peace initiatives, such as the Avadi Resolution, positions it as a potential mediator in current geopolitical tensions. By advocating for disarmament based on historical precedents, India can influence global norms around nuclear weapons.
Cultural Emphasis on Non-Violence: India’s philosophical foundation in non-violence can be leveraged to promote peaceful resolutions to conflicts, encouraging other nations to adopt similar approaches in international relations.
What challenges does India face in enhancing its role in international peace efforts?
Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts with neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan and China, complicate India’s ability to advocate for disarmament without appearing vulnerable. These tensions may hinder collaborative peace efforts.
Domestic Political Landscape: Political dynamics within India can affect its foreign policy priorities. A focus on national security may overshadow initiatives aimed at global peace, making it challenging to balance domestic concerns with international responsibilities.
Global Complacency: The prevailing complacency regarding nuclear threats poses a significant challenge. Despite historical lessons from events like the 2004 tsunami or nuclear bombings, many nations remain indifferent to the risks posed by nuclear arsenals, complicating efforts for collective action
Way forward:
Reviving Multilateral Engagements: India should initiate and lead international conferences focused on disarmament and the prevention of mass annihilation, drawing from its historical peace initiatives.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation: India must work towards reducing regional tensions with neighbours through confidence-building measures, bilateral dialogues, and showcasing its commitment to non-aggression. This will enable it to credibly advocate for global disarmament and peace.
